Kolpak DA-98 User Manual

DA-98

Digital Multitrack Recorder

D00337200A

OWNER’S MANUAL

The lightning ﬂash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert

ÿ Ÿ

This appliance has a serial number located on the rear panel. Please record the model number and serial number and retain them for your records.

Model number Serial number

the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure that may be of sufﬁcient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons..

The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK

HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS

APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.

Important Safety Precautions

IMPORTANT (for U.K. Customers)

DO NOT cut off the mains plug from this equipment.

If the plug fitted is not suitable for the power points in your home or the cable is too short to reach a power point, then obtain an appropriate safety approved extension lead or consult your dealer.

If nonetheless the mains plug is cut off, remove the fuse and dispose of the plug immediately, to avoid a possible shock hazard by inadvertent connection to the mains supply.

If this product is not provided with a mains plug, or one has to be fitted, then follow the instructions given below:

IMPORTANT: The wires in this mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:

GREEN-AND-YELLOW : EARTH BLUE : NEUTRAL BROWN : LIVE

WARNING: This apparatus must be earthed.

As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals in your plug proceed as follows:

The wire which is coloured GREEN-and-YELLOW must be connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked by the letter E or by the safety earth symbol ç or coloured GREEN or GREENand-YELLOW.

The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.

The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.

For U.S.A

TO THE USER

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residental area is likely to cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.

CAUTION

Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by TEAC CORPORATION for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.

For the consumers in Europe WARNING

This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

When replacing the fuse only a correctly rated approved type should be used and be sure to re-fit the fuse cover.

IF IN DOUBT — CONSULT A COMPETENT ELECTRICIAN.

Pour les utilisateurs en Europe AVERTISSEMENT

Il s’agit d’un produit de Classe A. Dans un environnement domestique, cet appareil peut provoquer des interférences radio, dans ce cas l’utilisateur peut être amené à prendre des mesures appropriées.

Für Kunden in Europa Warnung

Dies is eine Einrichtung, welche die Funk-Entstörung nach Klasse A besitzt. Diese Einrichtung kann im Wohnbereich Funkstörungen versursachen ; in diesem Fall kann vom Betrieber verlang werden, angemessene Maßnahmen durchzuführen und dafür aufzukommen.

2 TASCAM DA-98

ANTENNA LEAD IN WIRE

ANTENNA DISCHARGE UNIT (NEC SECTION 810-20)

GROUNDING CONDUCTORS

(NEC SECTION 810-21)

GROUND CLAMPS

POWER SERVICE GROUNDING ELECTRODE SYSTEM (NEC ART 250. PART H)

NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

ELECTRIC SERVICE EQUIPMENT

Example of Antenna Grounding as per

National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70

GROUND CLAMP

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

CAUTION:

…Read all of these Instructions. …Save these Instructions for later use. …Follow all Warnings and Instructions marked on the audio

equipment.

1) Read Instructions — All the safety and operating instructions should

be read before the product is operated.

2) Retain Instructions — The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference.

3) Heed Warnings — All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to.

4) Follow Instructions — All operating and use instructions should be followed.

5) Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning.

6) Attachments — Do not use attachments not recommended by the product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.

7) Water and Moisture — Do not use this product near water — for example, near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a wet basement; or near a swimming pool; and the like.

8) Accessories — Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a child or adult, and serious damage to the product. Use only with a cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer, or sold with the product. Any mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and should use a mounting accessory recommended by the manufacturer.

9) A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and cart combination to overturn.

10) Ventilation — Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation and to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, and these openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.

11) Power Sources — This product should be operated only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or local power company. For products intended to operate from battery power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.

12) Grounding or Polarization — This product may be equipped with a polarized alternating-current line plug (a plug having one blade wider than the other). This plug will fit into the power outlet only one way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized plug.

13) Power-Cord Protection — Power-supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product.

14) Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an outside antenna or cable system is connected to the product, be sure the antenna or cable system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and builtup static charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information with regard to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of antenna-discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode.

"Note to CATV system installer:

This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention to Section 820-40 of the NEC which provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point of cable entry as practical.

15) Lightning — For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges.

16) Power Lines — An outside antenna system should not be located in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them might be fatal.

17) Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in risk of fire or electric shock.

18) Object and Liquid Entry — Never push objects of any kind into this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the product.

19) Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.

20) Damage Requiring Service — Unplug this product from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the following conditions:

a) when the power-supply cord or plug is damaged. b) if liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product. c) if the product has been exposed to rain or water. d) if the product does not operate normally by following the operating

instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the product to its normal operation.

e) if the product has been dropped or damaged in any way. f ) when the product exhibits a distinct change in performance – this

indicates a need for service.

21) Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part. Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other hazards.

22) Safety Check — Upon completion of any service or repairs to this product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the product is in proper operating condition.

23) Wall or Ceiling Mounting — The product should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.

24) Heat — The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat.

TASCAM DA-98 3

Table of Contents

1 –Introduction to the DA-98

1.1 Unpacking

1.2 Features

1.3 Using this manual

1.4 Precautions and recommendations

1.4.1 Clock source in a digital studio

1.4.2 Confidence replay

1.4.3 Environmental conditions

1.4.4 Installing the DA-98

1.4.5 Electrical considerations

1.4.6 Condensation

1.5 Recommended tapes

1.5.1 Tape brands

1.5.2 Available recording and playback time

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2 –Front Panel controls

[1] Power switch [2] Tape counter and status indicators [3] Tape loading slot [4] EJECT key [5] Display screen [6] FORMAT/Fs indicators and switch [7] REF LEVEL (reference level indicators) [8] Peak meters [9] RHSL (F 1) key and indicator [10] AUTO PUNCH (F 2) key and indicator [11] CLEAR (F 3) key [12] AUTO PLAY (F 4) key and indicator [13] MEMO 1 (F 5) [14] MEMO 2 (+/–) [15] DIGITAL IN switch and indicator [16] CHASE switch and indicator [17] CONFIDENCE MODE switch and indicator [18] ALL INPUT (F 6) key and indicator [19] AUTO MON (F 7) key and indicator [20] SHTL MON (F 8) key and indicator [21] REPEAT (F 9) key and indicator [22] LOC 1 (F 10) key [23] LOC 2 (PRESET) key [24] SHIFT key and indicator [25] CURSOR keys [26] SHUTTLE switch, indicator and control [27] ENTER and ESCAPE keys [28] REC FUNCTION switches and indicators [29] INPUT MONITOR switches and indicators [30] CLOCK switch and indicators [31] TC REC switch and indicator [32] REW key [33] F FWD key [34] STOP key [35] PLAY key [36] RECORD key

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3 –Rear Panel connectors

[37] TIME CODE (IN and OUT) [38] VIDEO (IN/THRU) [39] WORD SYNC (IN/OUT/THRU) [40] RS-422 [41] MIDI IN/OUT/THRU [42] CONTROL I/O [43] REMOTE IN/SYNC IN [44] SYNC OUT [45] TDIF-1 (DIGITAL I/O)

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[46] METER UNIT (MU-8824) [47] ANALOG INPUT [48] ANALOG OUTPUT [49] ~ IN

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4 –Connections

4.1 Audio connections

4.1.1 Analog audio connections

4.1.2 Digital audio connections

4.2 Synchronization connections

4.2.1 Analog timecode connections

4.2.2 Video connections

4.2.3 Word clock connections

4.3 Control connections

4.3.1 RS-422 connector

4.3.2 MIDI connectors (IN , OUT and THRU)

4.3.3 Parallel control

4.4 Connection to other TASCAM units

4.4.1 Multiple DTRS units

4.4.2 “Indirect” word sync

4.4.3 Meter unit (MU-8824)

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5 –Menu operations

5.1 The menus

5.1.1 Navigation around the menu system

5.1.2 Using the ENTER key

5.1.3 The ESCAPE key

5.1.4 Editing values

5.1.5 Resetting a menu value

5.1.6 Changing menu values fast

5.1.7 Blanking the screen display

5.2 Function key modes

5.2.1 The SHIFT key and function keys

5.2.2 Using the function keys as number keys

5.3 Assigning menus to function keys

5.3.1 To assign a menu screen to a key

5.3.2 Recalling an assigned menu function

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6 –Basic operations

6.1 Formatting a tape

6.1.1 Aborting the format process

6.1.2 Recording while formatting

6.2 Recording the first tracks

6.3 Preparing to record

6.3.1 Write-protecting cassettes

6.3.2 Recording the basic tracks (i)

6.3.3 Recording the basic tracks (ii)

6.3.4 Replaying the first tracks

6.4 Overdubbing

6.5 Track bouncing

6.6 Punch-in and punch-out

6.6.1 Automatic punch point setting

6.6.2 Setting punch points “on the fly”

6.6.3 Setting punch points using the menus

6.6.4 Editing the pre-roll and post-roll times

6.6.5 Rehearsing the punch-in

6.6.6 Interrupting a rehearsal or punch recording

6.6.7 Recording the punch-in

6.6.8 Replaying the punched material

6.6.9 Exiting punch-in mode

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06/97 – 1.00 – TOC-1

Table of Contents

7 –Monitoring modes

7.1 Monitoring controls

7.1.1 ALL INPUT [18] and INPUT MONITOR [29]

7.1.2 AUTO MON

7.1.3 Shuttle monitoring

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7.2 Confidence mode

7.2.1 Arming tracks in pairs

7.2.2 Using confidence mode

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8 –Advanced operations

8.1 Autolocation

8.1.1 Setting MEMO 1 and MEMO 2 “on the fly”

8.1.2 Checking, editing and manually entering MEMO 1 and MEMO 2

8.1.3 Setting the location pre-roll time

8.1.4 Moving to MEMO 1 and MEMO 2

8.2 Function key location memories

8.2.1 Storing a function key location memory

8.2.2 Editing function key memories

8.2.3 Locating to a function key memory

8.2.4 Location and playback

8.2.5 Repeat function

8.2.6 To start repeat play

8.3 Track delay

8.3.1 To set the track delay:

8.4 Crossfade times

8.5 Vari speed (pitch control)

8.5.1 To set a non-standard speed

8.5.2 Resetting the speed to standard

8.6 Shuttle operations

8.6.1 Shuttle monitoring

8.6.2 Shuttle muting

8.7 Reference levels

8.8 Meter modes

8.8.1 Peak hold time

8.8.2 Meter ballistics

8.9 Sine oscillator

8.9.1 Recording the oscillator

8.10 Digital recording

8.10.1 Changing between digital and analog inputs

8.10.2 Selecting word length

8.11 Routing digital inputs

8.11.1 Track Copy (channel-to-track routing)

8.12 REC MUTE (recording silence)

8.13 Dither

8.13.1 Selecting dither settings

8.14 Setting the power-on message

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9 –Synchronization with other DTRS units

9.1 Synchronization connections

9.2 Machine ID and master/slave settings

9.2.1 Differences between DTRS models

9.2.2 Setting machine ID

9.2.3 Master/slave settings (CHASE mode)

9.3 Machine offset

9.3.1 Setting machine offset

9.3.2 Cancelling machine offset

9.3.3 Setting machine offset “on the fly”

9.3.4 An example of setting offsets

9.4 Digital dubbing

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9.4.1 Synchronized formatting

9.4.2 Recording while formatting

9.5 Error messages

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10 –Operations related to timecode

10.1 ABS and SMPTE/EBU timecode

10.1.1 ABS time

10.1.2 Tape timecode

10.1.3 Selecting TC or ABS timing

10.1.4 Location point settings

10.2 Tape timecode mode

10.2.1 TcTrack setting

10.2.2 ABS setting

10.2.3 ABS-Ofs setting

10.2.4 ABS-13 and ABS-23 settings

10.2.5 Checking tape TC

10.3 Selecting the frame rate

10.3.1 Pull up and pull down (Fs shift)

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10.4 Timecode input and output

10.4.1 Timecode input

10.4.2 Timecode output

10.4.3 Timecode output format

10.4.4 Timecode output timing

10.4.5 Using MIDI Time Code (MTC)

10.5 Recording timecode

10.5.1 Selecting the timecode source

10.5.2 Recording timecode using the generator

10.5.3 Synthesizing timecode from ABS timing

10.5.4 Assembling timecode

10.5.5 External timecode sources

10.5.6 Recording timecode from external sources

10.5.7 Checking external timecode

10.6 Video resolution

10.7 Chasing to timecode

10.7.1 Machine ID and timecode

10.7.2 Setting timecode offset

10.7.3 Setting timecode offset from the menu

10.7.4 Cancelling timecode offset

10.7.5 Setting timecode offset on-the-fly

10.7.6 Park position

10.7.7 Automatic park position setting

10.7.8 Absolute and relative difference

10.7.9 Rechasing timecode

10.7.10 Bypassing timecode errors

10.7.11 Individual recording while chasing timecode

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11 –External control

11.0.1 Selecting the control source (protocol)

11.1 Use with 9-pin external control

11.1.1 Video clocking

11.1.2 Emulation

11.1.3 Record delay

11.1.4 Cue-up tally

11.1.5 Fast wind speed

11.1.6 Track mapping

11.1.7 Timecode track mapping

11.1.8 Remote track arming

11.2 Bus protocol

11.2.1 Assigning a MIDI and Bus ID to the DA-98

11.3 MIDI Machine Control

11.3.1 MMC commands and the DA-98

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TOC-2 – 1.00 – 06/97

12 –Menu and parameter reference

12.1 Menu groups

12.1.1 Menu group 0

12.1.2 Menu group 1

12.1.3 Menu group 2

12.1.4 Menu group 3

12.1.5 Menu group 4

12.1.6 Menu group 5

12.1.7 Menu group 6

12.1.8 Menu group 7

12.1.9 Menu group 8

12.1.10 Menu group 9

12.1.11 Menu group E

12.1.12 Menu group F

12.2 Menu item index

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13 –Example setups

13.1 An all-DA-98 setup

13.2 Post-production work.

13.3 Project studio (‘B’ room)

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Table of Contents

14 –Maintenance and memory setups

14.1 Head and transport cleaning

14.1.1 To clean the heads and transport

14.1.2 Checking error rates

14.1.3 Checking head time

14.1.4 Checking head search time

14.2 Memory backup

14.3 User setups

14.3.1 Saving user setups

14.3.2 Loading user setups

14.3.3 Resetting the memory

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14.4 Checking version numbers

14.4.1 Software upgrades

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15 –Options, specifications and reference

15.1 Options for the DA-98

15.1.1 RM-98 Rack Mount Adaptor

15.1.2 Remote control (RC-848)

15.1.3 Meter unit (MU-8824)

15.1.4 Digital audio convertors

15.1.5 Cables

15.1.6 CONTROL I/O connector pinout

15.2 Specifications

15.2.1 Physical specifications

15.2.2 Power specifications

15.2.3 Digital recording characteristics

15.2.4 Tape recorder section

15.2.5 Tape transport

15.2.6 Inputs and outputs

15.2.7 Audio specifications

15.2.8 9-pin (RS-422), MIDI, synchronizer specifications

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15.3 MMC Bit Map Array

15.4 MIDI Implementation Chart

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Table of Contents

TOC-4 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 1 – Introduction to the DA-98

1 – Introduction to the DA-98

The TASCAM DA-98 is a digita l audio mu ltit rack recorder designed for use in a variety of applications, including video post-production and audio multitrack work.

It records 8 tracks of full-quality digital audio on standard Hi8 video cassettes using a speciallydesigned transport and head mechanism. Using this medium, up to 108 minutes of continuous recording is possible on a single NTSC “120” tape.

Recording is carried out at a full 16 bits of resolution, and digital data may be input at 16, 20 or 24 bits of resolution. Analog signals are converted to digital data using 64 times oversampling deltasigma techniques.

The DA-98 builds on the foundations laid by the TASCAM DA-88 and DA-38 digital multitrack recorders, and retains compatibility with them. Tapes recorded on one of the DA series can be replayed and overdubbed on any other machi ne in the series, or any DTRS

machine.

1.1 Unpacking

The box contains the follo wing.

• DA-98 Digital Multitrac k Recor der (x 1)

• Accessories: –Rackmount scre w kit (x 1)

–AC power cord, 2 m (6 ft) long (x 1) –This manual (x 1)

• Warrant y ca rd ( x 1)

1.2 Features

Other key features of the DA-98 include:

• T ASCAM-e xclusive high-performance/high wear resistiv e rotary 4-head mechanism with TASCAM original track layout (DTRS standard)

• Use of standard, low-cost media with l ong recording and playback times

DTRS is a trademark of TEAC Corporation

• 16-bit linear quantization at either 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz provides CD-quality sound or better

• Fast, frame-accurate tape location and posit ioning; end-to-end winding for a “ 120” t ape is around 80 seconds

• Direct digital synchronization of up to 16 DTRS recorders (128 tra cks) without the use of any external sync hron ize r or cont roller

• Direct digital dubbing between DTRS units

• Track Copy function acts as an i nternal digital patchbay, allowing input-to-track a ssi gnment without the use of exter nal equi pment

• Balanced +4dBu analog inputs and outputs car ried on a con venient compact D-sub connector

• Selectable nominal analog I/O levels to conform to SMPTE, EBU, etc. standards

• 15-segment peak meters with user -se lec tabl e fall ballistics an d variable hold time (including continuous peak hold)

• Integral digital sine osci llator , providing sig nals at 440Hz for tuning and 1kHz for li neup p urposes

• Digital input and output on a single convenient compact D-sub connector (TDIF-1 for ma t)

• Settings carried out through a menu hierarchy using a 20-character x 4-line LCD dis play with cursor keys and an ENTER/ESCAPE system

• The 10 most commonly-used functions can be assigned to “soft keys” for easy recall

• Full SMPTE/EBU timecode synchronization , including on-board timecode generator

• MIDI Time Code and MIDI Machine Control

• Confidence replay mode, allowing off-tape monitoring while recording is in pr ogr ess

• Input monitor mode allows channel-b y-channel source monitoring, regardless of tape transport status

• Three user setup memory banks for stori ng setup profiles

• Simplified source/tape mon itoring functions with automatic switching

• Auto punch-in and punch-out with rehearsal mode

• 2-point full function autolocator with A–B repeat function , and 10 “soft key” location memories

• Variable speed recording and playback (up to

6.0% in 0.1% steps)

06/97 – 1.00 – 1-1

Section 1 – Introduction to the DA-98

• Shuttle mode enables “rock and roll ” audio positioning of key locations

1.3Using this manual

We suggest that you take the trouble to read this manual through at least once before st arting t o use the DA-98. In this way, you will find out where to turn when you need answers.

We suggest that you make a special note of the section 1.4, “Precautions and recommendations” as these contain some information which is unique to the DA-98.

We also suggest that you also read 5, “Menu operations”, as this will help you when you come to perform basic operations.

When referring to a control or a connector on the DA-98, the name of the control or connector will be written in bold type, and will of ten be fol lowed by a num ber in brackets, as in the example below:

Holding down the

[36] key will start the recording process.

ORD

REC

The numbers refer to the front and rear panel il lustrations and description in 2, “Front Panel controls” and 3, “Rear Panel connectors”.

[35] and pressing the

PLAY

1.4Precautions and recommendations

As with any precision piece of electronic equipment, common-sense precautions apply with the DA-98.

However, there are a few extra precautions which apply to the DA-98, and we suggest that you make a note of these, to prolong the useful life of the DA-98.

1.4.1Clock source in a digital studio

The DA-98 can be used in a variety of situations, and with a variety of equipment, either digital or analog.

If you are working with more than one digital audio unit in your setup, you should note that all units must be driven by the same central clock source (“word clock” or “word sync”).

If different word clock sources are used throughout the setup, it is actually possible to damage speakers, etc. because of mismatches.

The DA-98 can be designated as the word clock master for your studio, or can be slaved to external word clocks, using a convenient front-panel switch and standard BNC connectors.

When referring to a word or phrase which appears on the LCD display screen, the word or phrase will be written as follow s:

Move the cursor to

Memo1

Sometimes the tape counter is used to display a message. This will be shown as follows:

The tape counter will show .

NOTE

Recording is an art as well as a science. A successful recording is often judged primarily on the quality of sound as art, and we obviously cannot guarantee that. A company that makes paint and brushes for artists cannot say that the paintings made with their products will be critically well-received. TASCAM can make no guarantee that the DA-98 recordings you make. Your skill as a technician and your abilities as an artist will be significant factors in the results you achieve.

by itself

will assure the quality of the

Even though AES/EBU stereo digital audio signals are self-clocking, any AE S/EBU format signals converted and fed to or from the DA- 98 must be synchronized at word level with the DA-98.

1.4.2Confidence replay

Because the DA-98 can accept digital data and converts analog data with longer word lengths than it uses to re cord on tape (16-bit reso lution), monitoring the input source during recording will not necessarily provide a completely accurate representation of what is recorded on tape.

The DA-98 provides a dither setting (see 8.13.1, “Selecting dither settings”) which provides improved total harmonic distortion figures. Since the dither is applied prior to recording, again, monitoring the inpu t source will not allow you to hear the effect of the dithering process.

Accordingly, the DA-98 provides a confidence mode, allowing you to monitor off-tape as record-

1-2 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 1 – Introduction to the DA-98

ing progresses. Since this monitoring is not synchronized exactly with the source inputs, gapless punch-in and punch-out is not possible in confidence mode. For full details of confidence monitoring, together with other monitoring modes available on the DA-98, see 7, “Monitoring modes”.

1.4.3 Environmental conditions

The DA-98 can be operated in mos t en vironments, but we suggest that you keep the environmental conditions within the following limits:

Ambient temperature between 5° and 35° C (41° and 95° F).

Relative humidity should be between 30% and 80% non-condensing

There should be no strong magnetic fields (speakers, etc.) near the DA-98.

Optional rack mou nt adapto r handl es (RM-98 ) are available. For details, see 15.1.1, “RM-98 Rack Mount Adaptor”.

The DA-98 should be mounted with the front panel vertical.

1.4.5 Electrical considerations

Avoid spraying polish, insecticides, etc. near the DA-98.

WARNING

If you need to clean the DA-98, use a soft cloth, moist ened if necessary with a little detergent and water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents such as alcohol or thinner.

Avoid subjecting the DA-98 to jolts, sudden shocks, etc.

WARNING

If you have to return the unit for service or repair, use the original packing materials if p ossible. If the unit is to be transported to a recording location, etc., use a suitable transport case with sufficient shock protection.

TASCAM does not accept responsibility for damage resulting from neglect or accident.

1.4.4 Installing the DA-98

The DA-98 may be installed in a standard 19” rack, occupying 4U of space. Since the DA-98 is quite heavy (around 11kg – 24lb), your rack should be strong and stable to take the weight of the DA-98.

Make sure that your local power supply matches the voltage requirements marked on the rear panel of the DA-98.

If you are in an y doubt c oncern ing the l ocal po wer supply, consult an electrician.

Avoid extreme voltage fluctuations. If necessary, use an input vol tage re gulator to s mooth the po wer supplied to the DA-98.

Do not open the unit to clean inside , or to pe rform any internal adjustments. You should not attempt any cleaning or other maintenance procedures which are not described in this manual.

You may need to clean the heads occasionally. The procedure for doing this, and for checking tape error rates, etc., is given in 14, “Maintenance and memory setups”.

1.4.6 Condensation

If you use the DA-98 in a warm place after moving it from a cold place (fo r instance, re cording on location), or if there has been a sudden change in temperature, condensation may occur within the tape mechanism, with a risk of possible damage to the unit.

06/97 – 1.00 – 1-3

Section 1 – Introduction to the DA-98

If condensation does o ccur , you will not be a ble to operate the DA-98 controls, and you will see the following message on the display:

WARNING !

Condensation on drum

If you see the above message, press the

ESCAPE

key to remove the message, leave the DA-98 switched on for one or two hours, then switch it off and on again before starting recording.

If you are going to use the DA-98 in a location where you think condensation is likely to occur, move the DA-98 into the warmer location about one or two hours before recording is due to start, and leave it switched on. Turn the DA-98 off and then on again before starting recording.

1.5 Recommended tapes

The DA-98 is designed for use with Hi8 video cassettes. You cannot use any other kind of tape with the DA-98.

There are two basic types of Hi8 tape: MP and ME. Each has its own particular characteristics and merits:

• MP tapes are manufactured using a daubed magnetic particle deposit process and exhibit a level of performance which is more than acceptable. They have a durability which allows them to be use d as work tapes in studio and post-production environments.

• ME tapes have their magneti c layer produced through a metal e vaporat ion process. Gene rally speaking, though these tapes have a high performance level, they are not as robust as MP tapes (see above) and should be used for live recording and archi val purposes, rather than as work tapes.

TASCAM does not endorse any specific tape or tape manufacturer. TASCAM has licensed the use of the DTRS logo ( ) to tape manufacturers, provided their tape meets the specifications required by DTRS tape recorders. However, the use of the DTRS logo on the tape packaging does not imply any endorsement of the tape by TAS-

CAM. It is possible that the characteristics and sensitivities of tapes may be changed by the manufacturers without notice. The brands and model numbers of tapes listed below may not always meet the specif ications required b y DTRS systems for optimum performance. TASCAM assumes no responsibility for problems resulting from changes made by a manufacturer to the materials or specifications of its tape products.

The electrical characteristics of DTRS recorders are adjusted and set using Sony Hi8 tape parameters (MP and ME) prior to shipment.

1.5.1 Tape brands

The following brands and models of tape can be used with the DA-98. As mentioned above, this list does not constitute any endorsement by TASCAM of these products, nor is it a guarantee that tapes bearing this br and and model name will continue to give optimum performance.

Maker MP ME

SONY DARS-MP E6-HME

AMPEX DA8 MP BASF DA MP TDK Hi8 MP Hi8 ME Position

FUJI HI P6- DS N

MAXELL P6- XR-M E6- XD-MN

The electronics of DTRS recorders are designed to operate within s pecif ic para meters. The use of a tape with sensitivity higher or lower than that of

P6-HMP E5-HME P6-HMPX E6-HMEAD P5-HMP E5-HMEAD P5-HMPX E6-HMEX

E5-HMEX

Hi8 MP Position Hi8 ME Pro

HI P5- DS N M221MP P6M221 MP P5-

P5- XR E5- XD

1-4 – 1.00 – 06/97

tapes for which the DTRS r ecorder was originally designed may cause an error in functionality or prevent the user from getting optimum performance from the tape. Always use the shortest possible tape for a given project. Do not attempt to use 150-minute or longer tapes in DTRS machines, as the machine will detect t he thicknes s of tape and automatically eject any tape thinner than recommended.

Never attempt to use a tape with the DA-98 that has previously been used in video equipment.

WARNING

You cannot cut and splice DTRS 8mm tapes for editing purposes. Using a spliced tape in the DA-98 will invariably result in serious damage to the heads, requiring replacement. All editing must be done digitally.

Section 1 – Introduction to the DA-98

1.5.2 Available recording and playback time

Depending on whether the tape has been purchased for use with an NTSC (P6/E6) or a PAL/ SECAM (P5/E5) television system, the same length of tape (as f ar as v ideo lengt h is concer ned) will provide different times for a udio work, as shown belo w, due to dif fer ent fra me rates be tween television sy stems. The indic ation P6/E6 or P5/E5 will be printed on the tape package:

Time on tape label

20 18 25 30 27 37 45 40 56 60 54 75 90 81 113 120 108 –

P6/E6 (NTSC tape)

P5/E5 (PAL/ SECAM tape)

06/97 – 1.00 – 1-5

Section 1 – Introduction to the DA-98

1-6 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 2 – Front Panel controls

2 – Front Panel controls

[1] Power switch

Turns the powe r to the D A98 on a nd off . When the DA-98 is turned off, se t tings will be retained in memory (see 14.2, “Memory backup”).

[2] Tape counter and status indicators

The tape counter gives the time in hours, minutes, seconds and frames.

The status indicators show the current status of various DA-98 functions. The legends of these indicators are abbreviated for reasons of space. Here is a list of their full meanings, together with the pages on which the functions are more fully described:

Legend Meaning Page

PB CONDITION ABS

REC INHI

OFFSET

TRACK COPY

PULL UP/DN

TAPE TC

TC GEN

DELAY

VARI SPEED

SHTL MUTE

EXT TC

Playback condit ion 14-1 Absolute tape time is being

used as the time reference Recording is inhibited (the

cassette’s write-protect tab is set)

Timecode time is being used as the time reference

Machine offset is in operation

Shows that the DA-98 is in TRACK copy mode

Shows pull up or down for drop-frame synchronization

Lights when the DA-98 is reading timecode from the tape

Lights when the internal timecode generator is generating

Lights when one or more of the tracks is delayed

Lights when the DA-98’s vari speed function is enabled

Shows that the shuttle m ut e function is in operation

Lights when the DA-98 is receiving external timecode

10-1

6-2

10-1

9-2

8-9

10-4

10-2

10-6

8-4

8-5

8-6

10-2

[3] Tape loading slot

Only use Hi8 ME or MP tapes as specified on page 1-4. The DA-98 will automatically eject all other tapes.

WARNING

Do not use a tape which has been used for recording video. Always use either new tapes or tapes which have been used in a DTRS recorder.

[4] EJECT key

Ejects any loaded cassette. A cassette can only be ejected when the transport is stopped.

[5] Display screen

This 20-character by 4-line LCD screen shows the menus and the parameters that can be set in the menus.

[6] FORMAT/Fs indicators and switch

FORMAT

The formatted. The

indicator sh ows that a tape is being

44.1KHz

and

48KHz

indicators

show the sampling frequency currently in use.

FORMAT/Fs

The

switch controls the formatting of tapes and allows selection of the sampling frequency used for recording (see 6.1, “Formatting a tape” for full details).

[7] REF LEVEL (r eference level

indicators)

These LEDs are used to indicate three standard reference levels: –16dBFS, –18dBFS and –20dBFS. For full details of this, see 8.7, “Reference levels”.

[8] Peak meters

These 15-segment peak meters show the input level or the recorded signal level, depending on the monitoring mode currently in operation (see 7, “Monitoring modes”).

NOTE

When using digital recording equ ipment, there is no headroom above the 0dB mark and no tape saturation is possible. Any signal which causes the “OVER” segment to light will cause audible distortion. For this reason you should take care not to let recording levels exceed this level.

06/97 – 1.00 – 2-1

Section 2 – Front Panel controls

The ballistics and peak hold times are selectable (see 8.8, “Meter modes”).

[9] RHSL (F 1) key and indicator

This key and indicator allow selection of the rehearsal mode in auto punch-in and out (see 6.6, “Punch-in and punch-out”).

SHIFT

When the

key [24] is pressed, this key

becomes a function key.

[10] AUTO PUNCH (F 2) key and

indicator

This key and indicator allow automatic punch-in and punch out following rehearsal (see 6.6, “Punch-in and punch-out”).

SHIFT

When the

key [24] is pressed, this key

becomes a function key.

[11] CLEAR (F 3) key

This key de feats t he reh earsal and a uto modes dur ing auto punch-in and out (see 6.6, “Punch-in and punch-out”). It is also used to cancel a format operation (see 6.1, “Formatting a tape”).

SHIFT

When the

key [24] is pressed, this key

becomes a function key.

[12] AUTO PLAY (F 4) key and indicator

When this key is pressed (the indicator will light), the DA- 98 will automatica lly sta rt playing as soon as a preset location point has been reached (see

8.2.4, “Location and playback”).

SHIFT

When the

key [24] is pressed, this key

becomes a function key.

[13] MEMO 1 (F 5)

When pressed, this key stores the current tape position into a memory location point which can

LOC 1

be accessed using the

key [22]. The location can be “nudged” using the menu functions (see 8.1.2, “Checking, edit ing and manua ll y en ter ing MEMO 1 and MEMO 2”).

SHIFT

When the

key [24] is pressed, this key

becomes a function key.

[14] MEMO 2 (+/–)

When pressed, this key stores the current tape position into a memory location point which can

LOC 2

be accessed using the

key [23]. When the

function keys ar e use d as numbe r keys, this key is used as a “sign-change” key.

[15] DIGITAL IN switch and indicator

This switch contr ols the input to the D A-98 . When on (indicator lights), the input is through the

TAL I/O (TDIF-1

erwise it is t hrough t he

) connector on the rear panel, oth-

ANALOG INPUT

DIGI-

connector.

[16] CHASE switch and indicator

CHASE

The

switch controls whether the DA-98’s transport is to “chase ” a master machine (indica tor is lit when chasing or flashing when preparing to chase) or to operate independently. The chase mode may be either timecode or ABS based (see

10.1, “ABS and SMPTE/EBU timecode”).

[17] CONFIDENCE MODE switch and

indicator

The DA-98 features a confidence replay mode which allows off-tape monitoring. This switch and its associated indicator allow selection and viewing of the status of this monitoring mode.

For a full explanation of confidence monitoring, see 7.2, “Confidence mode”.

[18] ALL INPUT (F 6) key and indicator

When this key is pressed, the indicator will light, and, regardless of the transport mode, all outputs will be switched to the signals derived from the inputs. This is primarily for alignmen t purposes, and is equivalent to pressing all the

TOR

switches ([29]) together.

INPUT MONI-

For a full treatment of monitorin g modes on the DA-98, see 7, “Monitoring modes”

SHIFT

When the

key [24] is pressed, this key

becomes a function key.

[19] AUTO MON (F 7) key and indicator

When this ke y is pr essed (the indicator will light), the monitoring system of the DA-98 automatically changes between input and off-tape monitoring, depending on the transport mode.

For a full treatment of monitorin g modes on the DA-98, see 7, “Monitoring modes”

SHIFT

When the becomes a function key.

key [24] is pressed, this key

2-2 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 2 – Front Panel controls

[20] SHTL MON (F 8) key and indicator

When this key is pressed, shuttle monitoring is enabled (see 7.1.3, “Shuttle monitoring”).

SHIFT

When the

key [24] is pressed, this key

becomes a function key.

[21] REPEAT (F 9) key and indicator

When this key is pressed, playback is repeated between the two memory locati ons set by [13] and [14] (see 8.2.5, “Repeat function” for details).

SHIFT

When the

key [24] is pressed, this key

becomes a function key.

[22] LOC 1 (F 10) key

This key locates the tape to the position set by

MEMO 1

When the

[13].

SHIFT

key [24] is pressed, this key

becomes a function key.

[23] LOC 2 (PRESET) key

This key locates the tape to the position set by

MEMO 2

When the

[14].

SHIFT

key [24] is pressed, this key allows the assignment of the function keys ([9] through [13], and [18] through [22]) (see 5.3, “Assigning menus to function keys”).

[24] SHIFT key and indicator

When this latching key is pressed (the indicator will flash), ke ys [9] throu gh [ 13] and [18] th rough [22] becom e function keys, and key [23] takes on a new function as a

PRESET

key (see 5.3,

“Assigning menus to function keys”).

[25] CURSOR keys

These keys are us ed to na vigate the c ursor through the menus controlling the DA-98 functions.

When a menu has been selected, the

DOWN

keys ( and ) are used to set

and

the values or select the choices within the menu). See page 5-1 for details of how to use these keys

in menu operations.

[26] SHUTTLE switch, indicator and

control

When the will light. The active. Turning the control to the right privides

SHUTTLE

key is pressed, the indicator

control will then be

forward cuein g and turning it to the left provides reverse cueing, similar to “rock and roll” on openreel tape decks.

For details, see 8.6, “Shuttle oper at ion s”.

[27] ENTER and ESCAPE keys

These keys ar e used in conju nction wit h the cursor keys [25] to go “up and down” the menu hierarchy.

See page 5-1 for details of how to use these keys in menu operations.

[28] REC FUNCTION switches and

indicators

These eight switches and indicators allow the setting and viewing of the record status on a trackby-track basis.

When one of these switches is pressed, the appropriate indicator will flash, the track is “armed”, and going into record mod e will st art reco rding on that track. When recording is be ing carr ied out on a track, the track’s indicator will light steadily.

[29] INPUT MONITOR switches and

indicators

These switches allow the monitoring of inputs to tracks on a tr ack-b y-track basis, irres pecti ve of t he current transport status. The appropriate indicator(s) will light when monitoring track input(s) using these switches.

Note that the function of these switches is connected with the

ALL INPUT

key [18] (page 7-1).

[30] CLOCK switch and indicators

This switch and these indicators allow you to set and view the system clock. There are three options:

Setting Meaning

INT

WORD

VIDEO

For full details of external synchronization, see 10, “Operations related to timecode”.

The DA-98 will provide its own clock reference

The clock will be synchronized to the signal received at the

WORD SYNC IN

VIDEO IN

connector

06/97 – 1.00 – 2-3

Section 2 – Front Panel controls

[31] TC REC switch and indicator

This switch is used when you wish to record timecode (either internally generated or from an external source) on a dedicated subcode track of the DA-98. No audio track is needed to record timecode. For full details of timecode operation, see 10, “Operations related to timecode”.

NOTE

It is not necessary to use timecode if two DTRS units (e.g. DA-88, D A- 38 or DA-98 machines) are to be operated together. The

ensure synchronization between machines

will

(see 9.2, “Machine ID and master/slave settings”)..

SYNC

connections

[32] REW key

Rewinds the tape at high speed. If this key is presse d duri ng recording, recording

will stop and the tape will rewind.

[33] F FWD key

Winds the tape forward at high speed.

If the DA-98 is in play mode, and the

REC

key is pressed, recording will start immediately on any “armed” tracks.

The

RECORD

key also is used to set punch-in

points during auto punch-in/out operations (see

6.6, “Punch-in and punch-out”).

If this key is presse d duri ng recording, recording will stop and the tape will wind forward.

NOTE

When either first time after powering up, or loading a tape, the unit first configures itself for the reel hub diameter of the tape in use, during which the tape advances at low speeds. This takes several seconds. Thereafter, the transport momentarily goes into stop mode before the tape starts fast-winding.

REW

F FWD

is pressed for the

[34] STOP key

Cancels any current tape transport mode, and stops the tape.

[35] PLAY key

Starts playing the tape. If this key pressed while recording is in progress, the DA-98 drops out of record mode.

[36] RECORD key

PLAY

If the

RECORD

all “armed” tracks (see 6.3, “Preparing to record”).

key ([35]) is pressed while the

key is held down, recording will start on

2-4 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 3 – Rear Panel connectors

3 – Rear Panel connectors

This section provides a brief description of the functions of the connectors on the rear panel. For full details of cables to be used, pinouts, etc., see 4, “Connections”.

[37] TIME CODE (IN and OUT)

This pair of XLR connectors (female for IN and

OUT

male for for the synchronization functions of the DA-98. See 10, “Ope rations related to timecode” for full details.

[38] VIDEO (IN/THRU)

VIDEO

The video frame sync signals when the DA-98 is used with video equipment. Th e s elf-ter minati ng connector echoes messages received at the

See 10.6, “Video resolution” and 11.1.1, “Video clocking” for details of video sync operation.

[39] WORD SYNC (IN/OUT/THRU)

These BNC connectors are used to ca rr y the word clock between the DA-98 and other types of digital audio equipment. The terminating . See 8.10, “Dig ital recording” for full details.

[40] RS-422

This connector is used for controlling the DA-98 using controllers or editors which conform to the Sony P2 protocol (RS-422). See 11.1, “Use with 9-pin external control” for full details of how to use this connector.

[41] MIDI IN/OUT/THRU

These connectors carry MIDI Time Code (MTC) and MMC (MIDI Machine Control) commands. See 11.3, “MIDI Machine Con trol” for details of how these facilities are used when synchronizing to other units.

[42] CONTROL I/O

This connector is used for control of the DA-98 by external equipment. Consult your TASCAM dealer for full details of compatibility and the use of this connnector.

) provides the timecode connections

BNC connectors are used to carry

THRU

connector is self-

THRU

[43] REMOTE IN/SYNC IN

This connector is used to connect another “master” DTRS unit (e.g. DA-98, DA-88 or DA-38). See 9, “Synchronization with other DTRS units” for further details.

An RC-848 remote control unit may also be connected here, but not a ll f uncti ons of the DA-98 are available from the remote contol unit.

[44] SYNC OUT

This is used to connect another DTRS unit in the “daisy-chain” or, if this DA-98 is the last unit in the chain, to attach a termination plug.

[45] TDIF-1 (DIGITAL I/O)

This connector carries the digital signals to and from the DA-98 in TEAC Digital Interface Format (TDIF-1).

[46] METER UNIT (MU-8824)

This connector carries power and signals to drive 8 channels of the optional MU-8824 24-channel Meter Unit.

Make the connection using a TASCAM PW-88M cable.

[47] ANALOG INPUT

This connector carries 8 balanced inputs at a nominal +4dBu level. This allows convenient and reliable single-cable connection to the GROUP outputs of a suit ably- equippe d cons ole s uch as the TASCAM M-1600 series.

[48] ANALOG OUTPUT

This connector carries 8 balanced outputs at a nominal +4dBu level. This allows convenient and reliable single-cable connection to the tape return inputs of a suitably-equipped console such as the TASCAM M-1600 series.

[49] ~ IN

Use the provided AC power cord to connect the DA-98 to the AC power supply through this connector.

The pinout for this connector is given in 15.1.6, “CONTROL I/O connector pinout”.

06/97 – 1.00 – 3-1

Section 3 – Rear Panel connectors

3-2 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 4 – Connections

4 – Connections

This section explains how to connect other equipment to the DA-98 in a variety of situations. It is not intended as a complete reference to the use of the DA-98. See the appropriate sections for full details of how these connectors are used.

WARNINGS

• When making connections between the DA-98 and other equipment, whether audio or control, both the DA98 and the other equipment must be turned wise damage may be caused to the DA-98 and/or the other equipment.

• Only use TASCAM-supplied and TASCAM-approved cables when ma ki ng connections to the DA-98. Though the cables and connectors may resemble computer cables, they serve different purposes, and meet a different set of specifications. The use of cables other than TASCAM cables will at best cause the equipment to work erratically, and at worst cause damage to the equipment.

• If the use of cables other than TASCAM cables causes or results in damage, the warranty is voided.

off

, other-

The pinouts for both the

INPUT

connectors are as follows:

where

=ground, H=”hot” (+) and C=”cold” (–).

ANALOG OUTPUT

All audio inputs are balanced and are rated at a nominal +4dBu level.

The impedance of the inputs is 20k the outputs is 10

Ω.

Ω and that of

4.1.2 Digital audio connections

Digital audio input and output signals are carried on the same 25-pin D-sub connector [45]. The sig nals are in TDIF-1 format.

To carry signals between a DA-98 and another DTRS unit, use a PW - 88D cable (1 meter l ong) or a PW-88DL cable (5 meters long). You may also use these cables to connect the DA-98 to other TDIF-1-equipped devices.

and

4.1 Audio connections

Other audio equipment can be connected to the DA-98 either using analog or digital interfaces.

4.1.1 Analog audio connections

All analog audio connections to the DA-98 are made through 25-pin D-sub connectors (input signals through [47] and out put si gna ls thr ough [4 8]).

This allows convenient and tidy cabling between the DA-98 and other units such as the TASCA M M-1600 series of mixing consoles.

It is not recommended that you mak e up your o wn cables–consult your TASCAM dealer for availability of suitable ready-made cables (and see

15.1.5, “Cables”). However,we recognize that

every situation has its own unique features, and there are occasions when a special cable must be made.

Before starting to make the cable, we suggest you contact your TASCAM dealer for full details of cable specifications, etc.

If you need to connect the DA-98 to a digital audio source using a different format, we recommend the use of the following units:

• T ASCAM IF-8 8AE Int erface Unit – converts between the TDIF-1 and AES/EBU for mat s ( 8 channels). It also provides S-PDIF format conversion faci li ti es.

• T ASCAM IF-8 8SD Int erface Unit – converts between the TDIF-1 and SDIF-2 digi tal aud io formats.

4.2 Synchronization connections

The DA-98 is equipped with sophisticated facilities for control and synchronization with other units. For full details of how to operate the DA-98 with other units, see 10, “Operations related to timecode”.

4.2.1 Analog timecode connections

The DA-98 can be synchronized to externallygenerated timecode and is also equipped with an internal timecode generator. For full details of

06/97 – 1.00 – 4-1

Section 4 – Connections

how to use the DA-98 with timecode, see 10, “Operations related to timeco de”.

The two XLR timecode connectors [37] carry balanced signals with the following polarity:

Pin # Connection

1 Ground 2Hot 3Cold

However, unbalanced signals may be used, with only pins 1 and 2 connected.

IN (balanced) OUT (balanced)

Level 0.5 Vp-p to

10.0Vp-p

Impedance > 10k

TIMECODE OUT

The

Ω

connector either transmits

2Vp-p

< 100

Ω

internally-generated timecode or re-shaped or regenerated timecode echoed from the

connector.

TIMECODE

4.2.3 Word clock connections

This set of BNC connectors [39] is used to synchronize the DA-98 to other digital audio devices.

The front panel

CLOCK

to change between clock sources, and should be

WORD

set to

when synchronizing to an external

word clock.

jack should be connected to the WORD

The SYNC OUT of the digital audio device from which the DA-98 is to receiv e the sy nchr oniza tion clock.

Note the difference between the

THRU

connectors. signals generated b y the DA-98, and to echo the s ignals received at

If the DA-98 is the last unit in the chain of video equipment, there is no need to terminate it, as this circuit is self-term i nating.

Also note that if the DA-98 is connected to other DTRS units, the

WORD SYNC

be connected between the DTRS units.

switch (page 2-3) is used

OUT

and the

OUT

is used to carry wo rd clock

THRU

jacks do not need to

is used

4.2.2 Video connections

This pair of BNC connectors [38] is used to provide video frame reference clocking when the DA-98 is used with video equipment.

The front panel

CLOCK

change between clock sources, and should be set

VIDEO

Connect the

when synchronizing to video sync.

VIDEO IN

the VIDEO OUT of a video unit. This signal should be a 1 Vp-p composite signal.

If other equipment (such as other DTRS units) also need the video frame reference clock, the signal received at the

VIDEO THRU

connector.

If the DA-98 is the last unit in the chain of video equipment, there is no need to terminate it, as th is circuit is self-terminating.

For details of ho w the DA-98 can be synchronized to video frame information, see 11.1.1, “Video clocking”.

switch [30] is used to

connector of the DA-98 to

VIDEO IN

is echoed at the

4.3 Control connections

4.3.1 RS-422 connector

This connector is used to connect the DA-98 to other controllers or editors which will control the DA-98 using the Sony P2 protocol, or a bus protocol, such as that used by the TASCAM ES-61.

If you are in d oubt a bout t he co mpat ibilit y of such a device, please consult TASCAM or your TASCAM dealer, who will be able to advise you.

The DA-98 can emul ate (thro ugh softwa re control accessed through menu 6 ) a number of de vic es for compatibility with almost any controller. See

11.1.2, “Emulation” for details. Full details of control using this connector are

given in 11.1, “Use with 9-pin external control”.

4.3.2 MIDI connectors (IN , OUT and THRU)

These standard 5-pin DIN MIDI connectors [41] are used to carry MIDI Time Code (MTC) and MIDI Machine Control (MMC) information

4-2 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 4 – Connections

`o`t`r`g`o`t`r`g

Machine ID 1 (master, but CLOCK set to WORD)

Machine ID 2

(slave 1)

Termination

plug

PW-88S

IF-88SD

TDIF-1 digital

audio

Digital SDIF-2

device

SDIF-2

digital audio

Word clock signal

between the DA-98 and other suitably-equipped units (for instance, sequencers capable of being synchronized to MTC, and capable of t ransmitting MMC command s).

The MIDI functions are accessed through menu group 7. See 10.4.5, “Using MIDI Time Code (MTC)” and 11.3.1, “MMC commands and the DA-98” for full details.

Note the difference between

. The

OUT

connector outputs signals which

THRU

MIDI OUT

originate from the DA-98. The echoes messages received at the

THRU

connector

and

4.3.3 Paral lel cont rol

Parallel cont rol by and of the DA-98 is per formed through the

CONTROL I/O

port [42]. See 15.1.6, “CONTROL I/O connector pinout” for details of how to connect other equipment to this port.

4.4 Connection to other

MIDI

See 9.2.2, “Setting machine ID” for details of setting the Machine ID using menu group 3.

WARNINGS

The last unit in the chain must be terminated (a TASCAM termination plug must be plugg ed into the

OUT

of the last machine in the chain.

Once again, only use TASCAM cables for connection of equipment to and fr om the DA-98.

4.4.2 “Indirect” word sync

As mentioned earlier, there is usually no need to use a word clock when connecting DTRS units together. There is, however , an occasion when it is necessary to carry external word sync between DTRS units.

This is when a slave DTRS unit is recording digitally from another digital audio device:

SYNC

TASCAM units

By a “TASCAM unit”, we mean another D A-9 8, a DA-88 or a DA-38 unit, or an optional remote control unit, which may also be connected in a “chain” with mu ltiple DTRS units.

4.4.1 Multiple DTRS units

Use a TASCAM PW-88S cable when connecting other units to the [43] or to the

REMOTE/SYNC IN

SYNC OUT

connector ([44]).

This synchronization c able will carry the internal synchronization code and the transport signals, etc. There is no need to make any other connections, apart from the audio connections (either digital or analog).

If more than one DTRS unit is to be used, the first unit in the chain must have its Machine ID set to “1”, (“0” in the case of DA-88s) and subsequent units must have their IDs set in order with no gaps in the numbering sequence . Note that the diagram below does not show any audio connections.

Machine ID 1

(master)

PW-88S PW-88S

Machine ID 2

(slave 1)

`o`t`r`g `o`t`r`g`o`t`r`g

connector

Machine ID 3

(slave 2)

Termination

plug

Though the slave will receive its word clock from the master unit, the mast er itself must receive its word clock from the other digital audio device.

In this case, the master unit will have its clock

WORD

source set to clock from the master unit through the

, and the slave will receive its

SYNC IN

[43].

4.4.3 Meter unit (MU-88 24)

The optional MU-8824 external meter bridge unit can be connected using a PW-88M cable from the

METER UNIT

make any settings on the DA-98 when connecting the meter unit.

connector [46]. You do not need to

06/97 – 1.00 – 4-3

Section 4 – Connections

4-4 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 5 – Menu operations

5 – Menu operations

Read this section to understand the basic principles of menu operation. This will help you find your way round the DA-98’s functions easily and quickly.

5.1 The menus

The DA-98 has 12 menu groups, labelled from 0 through 9, and E and F. These are referred to in this manual as “menu group 0”, menu group E”, etc.

The menu which is used to select these 12 menus is called the “top” menu, and looks like this

Select Menu Group

01234567

89----EF

Dly/Tr.Cp/Vari/Loct

The bottom row of the display is used as a quick reference to remind you of the currently-set value or the contents of the menu group.

These are the choices within menu 0:

Delay Memo 1

Trk Copy Memo 2

Vari Spd Loc Pre

1 0000 Sample

Use the cursor keys to navigate between menu items within the group. The bottom line of the display will change to show the cu rrently-set values for the parameter beside the cursor.

When the cursor is beside the desired parameter, press the

ENTER

key. You can now change the val-

ues of that parameter.

5.1.3 The ESCAPE key

ESCAPE

The menu hierarchy (fr om menu s creens to s ub-menus to the top menu). It is therefore used if you enter the wrong menu by mistake.

For a full description of the menu tree, see 12, “Menu and parameter reference”.

• There is also an alphabetical index of menu functions and items on page 12-8.

key is used to move up through the

5.1.1 Navigation around the menu system

The cursor keys [25] are used to navigate round the screen. In this manual, we use the following terms for these keys:

CURSOR

key

Term used in text

key

DOWN

key

LEFT

key

RIGHT

key

Notice that in the top menu, as you move the cursor between menus, the bottom line will change, reflecting the contents of the me nu.

5.1.2 Using the ENTER key

From the top menu, when the cursor is beside the desired menu group, press

ENTER

that menu group. The screen will change, and the choices within that group will be shown.

[25] to enter

5.1.4 Editing values

When a parameter has been selected for editing, the function of the cursor keys is changed.

LEFT

If there is only one parameter, the

RIGHT

keys are not used, and the UP and keys are u sed to change the v alue of the paramet er . If the parameter is a number, the

DOWN

the value and the

key decreases the value.

If there is more than one parameter or there are “sub-values” to the parameter, such as in the following exampl e (men u group 8), the funct ions ar e a little changed:

Gen Start Fs shift

Gen Mod TcRec Src

01:33:12:17 30NDF

Here, the internal timecode generator start time can be set. Obviously, we could edit the “frames”

and

key increa ses

DOWN

06/97 – 1.00 – 5-1

Section 5 – Menu operations

field and keep pressing the UP key, but one hour would be 30 x 60 x 60 = 10,800 key presses!

To avoid this,, th e

LEFT

and

RIGHT

keys move the cursor between the “fields”; in this case, hours, minutes, seconds and frames.

Regardless of whether one value o r several subvalues have been edited, the changes to the values are made immediately. The cursor keys can then be used for navigation again.

In most time-based menus, when the “frames” field is being edited, the value can be changed

to the number of frames in 1 second

from (the exact number varies between settings) and

back to

However, if the cursor is moved to an invisible “field” to the right of the frames field, incrementing the v alue of the f rames field above the numbe r of frames in a second will increment the seconds field.

As an example:

1) The menu screen shows: “

00:01:43:29

when the frame rate is 30fps.

”

5.1.6 Changing menu values fast

Sometimes it is useful to be able to change a value fast (for ins tance , time values such as minutes and

DOWN

seconds). To do this, hold down the key and press the

ENTER

change faster as long as the

key. The values will

ENTER

key is held

down.

5.1.7 Blanking the screen display

There are times when you may want to blank the backlit screen display (for instance, the light may be a visual distraction, or you may want to discourage tampering fingers).

1) Press the

ENTER

down, press

You can also hold down the press

ENTER

2) The screen will blank, and the back light will go out.

3) To restore the screen display, press any of the following:

CURSOR

NOTE

keys.

The screen will be relit, and show the top menu.

key, and while holding it

ESCAPE

ENTER, ESCAPE

ESCAPE

, or any of the

key and

2) Press

3) The menu screen shows: “

00:01:43:00

However:

1) The menu screen shows “

2) Press

3) The menu screen shows: “

00:01:43:29_

00:01:44:00_

5.1.5 Resetting a menu value

Sometimes it is neces sary to reset a menu value to a default value.

To do this quickly, hold down the

DOW N

press the and press the

key (or hol d down the

key). If the menu value is a time value in hh:mm:ss:ff for mat, all the fields wi ll be reset to zero. If there i s more than one ind ependent field in a menu screen, use the cursor to point to the value that you want to reset to zero.

key and

DOWN

”.

key

This can be used as an alternative way of returning to the top menu when you are inside the menu hierarchy

5.2 Function key modes

These keys are often used to jump to frequentlyused menus (see 5.3, “Assigning menus to function keys”), but their function can be changed, as described here:

SHIFT

1) Press and hold down the while holding it down, press the [14] to enter the

Function Key Mode

menu.

As an alternative to the method above, you can go to menu group 7, move the cursor to

Mode

and press

ENTER

key [24], and

MEMO 2

Funct-

key

5-2 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 5 – Menu operations

2) This menu gives you three choices,

Locate Position

Function Key Mode

Select

uses the function keys as a quick way of jumping around the menu system (see 5.3, “Assigning menus to func tion keys”).

Locate Position

tion keys to location memories (see 8.2.1, “Storing a function key location memory”)

10 Key

numeric keypad for direct entry of numerical data (see 5.2.2, “ Using the functi on keys as number keys”).

allows you to use the function keys as a

and

10 Key

assigns the ten func-

3) Select the option with the UP and

DOWN

keys.

5.2.2 Using the function keys as number keys

When the has been set to the function keys as number keys for direct entry of numerical data.

The function key number is used to enter the digit

F 1

( which enter s a

When you have entered the value using the function keys as number keys, you should press the

PRESET

just entered.

The following is a step-b y-s tep guide to entering a value (1 minute and 5 seconds) into the Locate Pre-roll parameter (see 8.1.3, “Set ting the locati on pre-roll time”) .

1) Set the function key mode to

described above (page 5-2).

Function Key Mode

enters a 1,

10 Key

F 2

(see above), you can use

enters a 2, etc.) except fo r

key ([23] to confirm the value you have

10 Key

parameter

F 10

, as

NOTE

When you change the function of the “soft” keys between menu and location functions, the values assigned to the other function are not lost, and will be restored when you next change the function of the soft keys.

5.2.1 The SHIFT key and function keys

key).

LOC 2/PRE-

F 7

)).

Usually, the 10 function keys and the

SET

MEMO 2/ +/–

and

keys perform the duties as marked on the top of their la bels (e.g. key [19] usually works as the

AUTO MON

T o use the k eys as function k e ys (whethe r locati on keys, preset menu keys or as n umber keys), press

SHIFT

the

The

key.

SHIFT

indicator wi ll start to flash.

While it is flashing, these keys are used as described on the bottom row of their labels (e.g. key [19] now becomes function key 7 (

2) Go to menu group 0, move the cursor to , and press

Pre

Locate Pre-roll

3) Press the

ENTER

00min00sec

SHIFT

key [24]. The indicator will

start to flash .

4) Press the

Locate Pre-roll

F 1

key [9]:

00min01sec

The bottom line of the display will start to blink, showing that you are entering numerical data.

Loc

SHIFT

Press the

key again to stop the indicator flashing an d return the keys to their original functions.

Notice that the number is entered from the right of the fields, e ven though the cursor position is not at the right of the field.

06/97 – 1.00 – 5-3

Section 5 – Menu operations

5) Press the

Locate Pre-roll

F 10

key [22] (to enter a 0):

00min10sec

6) Press the F 5 key [13 ]:

Locate Pre-roll

01min05sec

7) The numbers for this value have now been entered, but the value itself has not. Press the

LOC 2 (PRESET)

The bottom line of the display will stop blinking.

8) You can use the UP and

key [23] to enter the value.

DOWN

keys to adjust

the value you have just entered.

SHIFT

9) Press

again to restore the function keys

to their “non-function” values.

many of the menu functions only rarely (for instance, whether the DA-98 is a master or a slave unit).

Some of the keys below the tape counter ([9] through [13], and [18] through [22]) can be used as “soft keys”, providing instant access to the menu screens you use most often.

5.3.1 To assign a menu screen to a key

1) Set the function key mode to described in 5.2, “Function key modes”

2) Use the cursor and

ENTER

menu function you want to assign to a key.

SHIFT

3) Press the

key [24] (the indicator will

flash).

4) Press the

PRESET

key [23]. The following will

appear on the display.

Function Preset

"Push Function Key"

keys to get to the

NOTE

Some parameters (e.g. offsets) can take either positive or negative values. To change the sign of the value, use

MEMO 2 (+/–)

the tive and negative values.

key [14] to toggle

between posi-

You can use the function keys as number keys in almost any menu where direct numerical input is possible.

You cannot use these keys as number keys when there are only two choices (even if they are numerical). An example of such a menu is the

Rechase Mode

two options for the

menu (page 10-13), where the

Window

value are 1 second and 2 seconds. This parameter should be s et usin g the

and

DOWN

keys, not the number keys.

5.3 Assigning menus to function keys

It is quite like ly that you will f ind you rself using a few of the same menu functions many times (for instance, manual adjustment of punch points) and

5) Press the key (

F 1

through

F 10

) to which you

want to assign the menu screen.

This will assign the menu screen to the key and the

SHIFT

indicator will go out.

5.3.2 Recalling an assigned menu function

1) Press the

flash).

2) Press the

assigned to the menu function you want to recall.

SHIFT

[24] key (the indicator will

key (1 through 10) which has been

The menu screen will be recalled, and the indicator will go out.

SHIFT

5-4 – 1.00 – 06/97

Section 6 – Basic operations

6 – Basic operations

This section explains some of the basic operations using the DA-98. Section 8, “Advanced operations” describes more advanced operations.

Most operations on a DA-98 are similar to those on a traditional analo g mul titrack re corder, but we suggest that you read this section and the next to learn about the features of the DA-98.

6.1 Formatting a tape

Before you use a tape in the D A -98, you must f irst format it. This marks internal synchronization patterns for the servo to follow on subsequent passes through the tape as well as the subcode data (ABS). No audio data is normally recorded d uring a formatting operation (but see below).

While formatting is proceeding, you cannot perform any other transport operation except stopping the tape.

a feature designed to stop you formatting a tape accidentally.

NOTE

If you do press the the indicator lights steadily and you then change your mind about formatting the tape, you can use the

CLEAR

key [11] to

4) Now use the

FORMAT/Fs

cancel the operation.

FORMAT/Fs

switch twice so

switch to select the

sampling frequency (either 44.1kHz or 48kHz).

The sampling frequency that you select depends on the eventual use for the recording. For audio work, selecting 44.1kHz will allow you to produce CD master tapes with no frequency conversion.

NOTE

If a digital signal is received at the [45] as selected and shown by the and indicator [15 ], the DA-98’s recording and playback sampling frequency is automatically determined by the sampling frequency of the input signal and you cannot change it.

DIGITAL I/O

DIGIT AL IN

that

jack

switch

You cannot change the sampling rate while formatting is in pr ogress.

1) Switch on the DA-98 and load a tape into the tape loading slot [3]. As the tape is loa ded and threaded, the tape counter s will show

For details of tapes that you can use in the DA-98, see 1.5, “Recommended tapes”.

2) Press REW [32] to ta ke the tape to th e beginning. When the beginning of the tape is reached, the tape counter will show (“beginning of tape”).

3) Press the

FORMA T/Fs

switch [6]. The

indicator will start blinking. Press the

switch again within 5 seconds. The

FORMAT

FORMAT/

FORMA T

indicator will then light steadily.

If you do not press the within 5 seconds, the indicator will go ou t. This is

FORMAT/Fs

switch twice

5) To start formatting the tape, hold down the

RECORD

NOTE

key [36] and press the

The tape counter may show a negative ABS time for a short while at the start of the formatting process. While it is displaying a negative value, no audio recording can take place.

6) The tape will format to the end, and then rewind automatically, stopping at the

position.

You are now able to use the tape for recording.

It is possible to format tapes on a number of DTRS units simultaneously. For detail s, see 9. 4.1, “Synchronized formatting”.

6.1.1 Aborting the format process

To abort the process before formatting actually takes place (i.e. you have pressed the switch twice in error), press the The

FORMAT

indicator will go out.

CLEAR

PLAY

key [35].

FORMAT/Fs

key [11].

As explained earlier, the only transport operation you can perform once formatting has started is to stop the tape.

06/97 – 1.00 – 6-1

Section 6 – Basic operations

However, we do not recommend interrupting the formatting process, but suggest that you let the tape run to t he end.

If you interrupt the formatting (or the formatting is interrupted by a power cut or events beyond your control), rewind the tape and start the format from the beginning of the tape again.

6.1.2 Recording while formatting

If you hav e armed an y tra cks (you h av e press ed its

REC FUNCTION

flashing), any aud io signal routed t o that track wi ll be recorded while formatting is in progress.

NOTES

• If you have recorded and formatted part of a tape, and you wish to continue formatting and recording on the rest of the tape (“assembly”), you should rewind to a pre-formatted, blank section of the tape and resume formatting and recording from there.

• Recording and formatting will continue at the sampling frequency used on the first part of the tape.

switch [28] and the indicator is

3) If y ou are r ecording fro m a digital source, pr ess

DIGIT AL IN

the

switch [15]. The indicator will

light.

4) Select the input which will be routed to each track on which you will be recording.

This may involve the use of an external patch bay (analog), but the DA-98 also incorporates a “virtual patch bay” which can be used for signal routing; both digital and analog. This is accessed through the Track Copy function (see 8.11.1, “Track Copy (channel-to-track routing)”).

With a digital recorder such as the DA-98, track crosstalk is almost negligible (better than 90dB at 1kHz). For this reason, you do not have to worry so much about the constraint s of choosing ph ysical track locations as you do with analog recordings.

If you need to copy a track to another track later in the recording process, remember that track copying in the digital domain will add no noi se or distortion. A digital copy is a “clone” of the original, and no loss of quality is incurred.

• Avoid re-starting recording and formatting from an unformatted section of the tap e.

6.2 Recording the first tracks

There are a number of different ways of recording the first tracks. However, all follow the same basic principles.

NOTES

• When using a newly-formatted tape, we suggest that you record a blank “leader” about 30 seconds long, starting from the begin ning of the ta pe, to av oid dropo ut. Leave a similar recorded blank “trailer” at the end of the recording. You can use the Rec Mute fun ction as a convenient way of recording silence (see 8.12, “REC MUTE (recording silence)”).

• If the tape counter shows a negative value, you cannot record on the tape at that position.

6.3 Preparing to record

1) If you have not already loaded a formatted blank tape, do so now.

6.3.1 Write-protecting cassettes

If you attempt to record on a cassette where the write-protect tab has been closed, an error message will appear on the screen as you press the

RECORD

key. Recording is, of course, not possi-

ble on a write-protected cass et te . Hi8 cassette write tabs work in the opposite man-

ner to DAT cassettes, and “closed” means “writeprotect”.

If the tape is write-protected, the

REC INHI

tor to the left of the tape counter will be lit. Eject the tape, ope n the write-protect tab, replace the cassette, and try again.

NOTE

Sony Hi8 cassettes (and those from some other manufacturers) have the words “SAVE” (write-protected) and “REC” (write-enabled) molded into the cassette shell by the protection tab.

6.3.2 Recording the basic tracks (i)

indica-

2) Make sure that varispe ed is turned off (c heck

VARI SPEED

the

indicator [2] and see 8.5.2,

“Resetting the spe ed t o s ta ndard” if necessary).

6-2 – 1.00 – 06/97

1) Arm the tracks on which you wish to record.

Press the indicator will start flashing.

REC FUNCTION

key of these tracks; th e

Section 6 – Basic operations

2) Adjust the input signal levels so t hat the track

OVER

meters read high, but the

segment does

not light.

NOTE

Use the reference level you have chosen (see 8.7, “Reference levels”) to be your “nominal” level.

3) Hold down the

PLAY

key. The tape will start moving and

RECORD

key, and press the

recording will start.

REC FUNCTION

The light steadily.

When you start recording, the point at which recording starts is automatically stored into memory for punch-in purposes.

indicators of all tracks will

4) To stop recording and stop the tape, press the

STOP

key. You can also press the

PLA Y

key, which will continue the tape movement, but stop recording.

1) Turn off the

RECORD FUNCTION

switch of the

track you have just recorded.

W e s uggest turni ng of f t he This will prevent you from accidentally hitting the

RECORD

writing what you have already recorded.

key and going into record mode, over-

2) Make s ure that the

INPUT MONITOR

RECORD FUNCTION

of the track you have just recorded is turned off (see 7 .1.1, “ALL INPUT [18] and INPUT MONITOR [29]”).

3) Rewind the tape to the point that you started

PLAY

recording and press

6.4 Overdubbing

Overdubbing subsequent tracks is carried out in a very similar way to recording the first tracks.

If you are unsure about the difference between monitoring modes as implemented on the DA-98, now is a good time to read the section 7, “Monitoring modes”.

6.3.3 Recording the basic tracks (ii)

This is an alternative method of reco rding basic tracks on a blank, formatted tape.

1) Arm the tracks and adjust the levels as described in [1] and [2] above (6.3.2, “Recording the basic tracks (i)”).

REC FUNCTION

The tracks will flash.

2) Press the

PLAY

key. The tape will start moving.

3) When y ou reac h the point at which y ou want to start recording, press the

REC FUNCTION

The tracks will light steadily.

The point at which recording starts is automatically stored into memory for punch-in purposes.

4) Stop recording as described above.

indicators of all armed

RECORD

indicators of all armed

key.

Obviously you will want to record while you listen to the off-tape signals from previouslyrecorded tracks and the input source on tracks where recording is taking place.

Note, however, that the use of confidence mode when overdubbing (see 7.2, “Confidence mode”) is not recommen ded, as t he off-tape replay signals will be delayed, making it impossible to provide accurate cues.

6.5 Track bouncing

Though the DA-98 provides a method of copying tracks digitally (see 8 .11.1, “T r ack Cop y (c hann elto-track routing)”), there is no way of combining tracks within the DA-98.

If you need to combine tracks, this must be done through an external console, routing all tracks to be combined through an outpu t group, and rout ing that group to the appropriate track input.

6.3.4 Replaying the first tracks

When you have positioned the tape at the beginning of the recor ding you ha v e jus t made (or at the pre-roll point) , you can st art pl aying back the tap e.

6.6 Punch-in and punch-out

There are a number of ways in which the DA-98 can be used to perform reliable punch-in and punch-outs automatica ll y. Punch points can be set

06/97 – 1.00 – 6-3

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