Sound Devices 774T User Manual And Technical Information

Download

Page 1

744T

High Resolution Digital Audio Recorder with Time Code User Guide and Technical Information ﬁ rmware rev. 2.09

1.8" HDD

2.5" HDD

Sound Devices, LLC

300 Wengel Drive • Reedsburg, WI • USA +1 (608) 524-0625 • fax: +1 (608) 524-0655 Toll-Free: (800) 505-0625 www.sounddevices.com

Page 2

backside - front cover

Page 3

Table of Contents

Quick Start Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Powering the Unit Menu Navigation Basics Connecting Audio Sources Routing Inputs to Tracks Selecting Recording Parameters and File Destination Time Code Setup Recording Playback FireWire File Transfer to Computer

Front Panel Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Panel Lock

LCD Display Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Left Panel Connectors and Controls . . . . . . . . . . 11

Right Panel Connectors and Controls . . . . . . . . . 12

Back Panel Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Input Setup and Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Input Source Selection Analog Inputs 1 and 2 Input Linking (Stereo or MS Decoding) Analog Inputs 3 & 4 Digital Inputs – AES3 Digital Inputs – AES3id (S/PDIF) Signal Presence and Peak Indicator Input Delay

Input-to-Track Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Routing Selective Input Muting

Sampling Rate and Bit Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Sampling Rate Bit Depths

Word Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Clock Master Clock Slave Multi-Unit Linking Via C. Link

Outputs – Analog and Digital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Master Output Bus Output Bus 2

Headphone Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

Selecting Headphone Sources Setting Headphone Source Options MS Stereo Monitoring SoundField B-Format Surround Monitoring Rotary Switch Behavior Headphone Favorite Selection Headphone Playback Mode Headphone Warning Tones

Metering and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Output Meter Meter Ballistics Peak LEDs Tone Oscillator LCD Contrast & Backlight, LED Brightness Record Indication

Time Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Frame Rate 48048-F Sampling Rate Mode Time Code Modes Jam Menu User Bits NTSC Standard Def Video Production

Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Recording Pre-Record Buffer Failure During Recording Display Options

Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

AutoPlay

Audio File Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

.WAV iXML MP3 Files

File Naming / Numbering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Scene Name/Numbering Mono Track Name Designators Duplicate File Names

File Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Folder Actions File Viewer Navigation File Viewer Screen File Time and Date File Size Maximum Flag (Archive) Bits File Copying Among Available Drives File Deletion False Take Control Emptying the Trash and False Take Folders Take Number Incrementing Take List

Storage Medium – Internal Hard Drive . . . . . . . . . 44

Formatting Media Repair Utility Drive Type Drive Replacement Drive Failure

Storage Medium – Removable Compact Flash . . 47

When to Use CF Formatting Speed Testing CF Media Repair Qualiﬁ ed CF Cards

Storage Medium – External FireWire Drives . . . . 48

When to Use External FireWire Drives Formatting FireWire Bus Powering Qualiﬁ ed Drives DVD-RAM Drives

File Transfer Using FireWire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

Powering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery External Powering and Battery Charging Time Code Clock Battery Auto Functions with External Powering

Firmware Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Version Information Upgrading Firmware

Setup Menu Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Built-In Presets User Setup Data File

Setup Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

Speciﬁ cations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Power Consumption Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Recording Time Calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Page 4

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Welcome

Thank you for purchasing the 744T. The ultra-compact 744T records and plays back audio to and from its internal hard drive, Compact Flash, or external drives, making ﬁ eld recording simple and fast. It writes and reads uncompressed PCM audio at 16 or 24 bits with sampling rates between 32 kHz and 192 kHz. Compressed (MP3) audio playback is also supported. The time code implementation makes the 744T ready for any recording job—from over-the-shoulder to cart-based production.

The 744T implements a no-compromise audio path that includes Sound Devices’ next generation microphone preampliﬁ ers. Designed speciﬁ cally for high bandwidth, high bit rate digital recording, these preamps set a new standard for frequency response linearity, low distortion performance, and low noise.

With documentary and ENG mixing engineers in mind, the 744T is very small, while still being feature-rich. No other recorder on the market matches its size and feature set. In addition, its learning curve is quite short—powerful does not mean complicated. While the 744T is a very capable recorder by itself, it truly excels when used in conjunction with an outboard audio mixer such as Sound Devices’ own 442 or 302.

Sound Devices took advantage of the best in professional and consumer electronics technologies to bring incredible feature depth with ease of use. Hard drive and Compact Flash are highly reliable, industry standard, and easily obtainable. With the ability to write to an external drive, a low-cost, portable medium can be turned in to post production. The removable, rechargeable battery is a standard Sony-compatible Li-ion camcorder cell. The 744T interconnects with Windows and Mac OS computers for convenient data transfer and backup.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the expressed written permission of SOUND DEVICES, LLC. SOUND DEVICES is not responsible for any use of this information.

SOUND DEVICES, LLC shall not be liable to the purchaser of this product or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses incurred by purchaser or third parties as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or unauthorized modiﬁ cations, repairs, or alterations to this product, or failure to strictly comply with SOUND DEVICES, LLC’s operating and installation instructions.

Microsoft Windows is registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer. Other product and company names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.

The sound waves logo is a registered trademark of Sound Devices, LLC.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 5

Quick Start Guide

The 744T is an extremely powerful and ﬂ exible portable audio recorder. Before recording, please familiarize yourself with the product. Several settings should be veriﬁ ed or set based on individual recording needs.

Powering the Unit

1. Apply power to the unit by attaching the (included) removable, rechargeable Li-ion (lithium ion) battery to the back panel battery mount. The metal tabs on the mount line up with the electrical contacts on the battery. From the factory, the battery may not have a charge, so external DC may be needed for initial operation and charging. Connect the included AC-to-DC power adapter to the DC input plug to power and charge the battery.

2. Press and hold the power key to turn on the unit. Press and hold the power key to turn off the unit.

If this is the ﬁ rst time the recorder has been powered, or if it has been without a battery for an extended period, the date and time may need to be set.

Charge the included Li-ion battery for 6 hours prior to initial use.

Menu Navigation Basics

The setup menu provides options for recording, routing, and control parameters. The single layer menu structure allows for very quick navigation and selection of functions. To enter the setup menu press the front panel key. Once in the setup menu, the following conventions are shared for navigating among selections and to select speciﬁ c parameters.

• - enters setup menu

• ❯ITEM❮ - highlighted menu item

• ✔ - selects highlighted item or parameter

• - moves up in menu and between menu parameters

• - moves down in menu and between menu parameters

• ✘ - exits the selected menu or menu altogether

• The stop key will exit from any menu and cancel any changes. Use it to escape out of the

setup menus.

The right panel Rotary Switch (labeled “Select”) is a convenient control to quickly navigate among menu items and item options. Its push-to-select function duplicates the check mark in most menus.

Connecting Audio Sources

1. Connect audio sources, either analog or digital, to the appropriate input connector.

2. When using either input XLR, set the appropriate input level—mic, line, or digital—with the adjacent

slide switch.

3. If mic-level inputs are used on XLR input 1 or XLR input 2, make certain that phantom power, input limiters, and high-pass ﬁ lters are activated as required.

4. When using inputs 3 or 4, set gain levels in the setup menu.

Page 6

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Routing Inputs to Tracks

Before recording, inputs must be assigned to tracks. Each of the 744T’s four inputs (1, 2, 3, 4) can be assigned to any of the four tracks (A, B, C, D). These 256 possible routing combinations are shown on the front panel with 16 blue LEDs. Illuminated LEDs indicate input-to-track assignment.

1. Press and hold the STOP key then press the INPUT key to cycle through factory routing pre- sets. The 744T has six often-used presets for quick setup of input-to-track routing combinations. Note the routing combinations on the blue LEDs with each successive press.

2. If none of the preset routing combinations are suitable, assign a custom routing. Sequential presses of the input key will eventually cycle to the custom routing option (see Input to Track Routing, pg. 18). From the custom input routing menu any input can be assigned to any track, including multiple inputs assigned to a single track.

3. Press EXIT to leave input routing mode.

If no input is assigned to a track the 744T will not record.

Selecting Recording Parameters and File Destination

For most productions, the general recording parameters of bit depth, sampling rate, media selection, and ﬁ le format are infrequently changed. Enter the setup menu to verify recording settings. Bit depth and sampling rate are displayed on the LCD panel.

1. Select the bit depth as needed.

2. Set the sampling rate as needed.

3. Select the ﬁ le format for recorded ﬁ les.

4. Select the storage medium(s) (Internal hard drive, Compact Flash, External drive, or combinations of

drives) for recording.

Time Code Setup

When using a time code workﬂ ow, proper time code setup is essential for accuracy. Skip this section if time code is not being used.

1. Select a time code frame rate appropriate for your project. For ﬁ lm production, typical the time code rates are 30 fps non-drop (US) or 25 fps (EU). For standard deﬁ nition video projects, use either 29.97 or

29.97 non-drop. For high-deﬁ nition projects, use either 23.976 or 29.97.

2. Select the time code run mode: free run, record run, 24 hr. run, or one of the external run modes.

3. Use the 744T as the master clock source and jam time code to all other recording devices. This will

assure that every device is using the same time reference. (See Time Code for additional information on time code setup).

Recording

With ﬁ le parameters set, you are ready to begin recording. The 744T is a record-priority device— pressing the record key cancels all functions, except ﬁ le-based operations, and immediately begins recording a new ﬁ le. When record is pressed, the red record LED illuminates to conﬁ rm record mode. The ﬁ lename on the LCD display shows the currently recorded ﬁ le. Push and hold the STOP key to end recording.

Playback

When recording is stopped, the most recently recorded ﬁ le is immediately available for playback. Press the key to begin ﬁ le playback from the beginning of the ﬁ le.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 7

To select a ﬁ le for playback:

1. Press and hold the File Viewer key to select a drive and folder (directory) for playback. The last

ﬁ le recorded is the default ﬁ le ready for playback. The default playback source is the storage volume highlighted on the LCD display.

2. Use the Rotary Switch, or the arrow soft-keys, to navigate through the File Viewer.

3. Once a ﬁ le is highlighted, press the

play key to begin playback.

When playback has ﬁ nished, the ﬁ lename will begin ﬂ ashing. Use the fast-forward key or rewind key to step through ﬁ les in the folder, or press the stop key to exit playback mode.

FireWire File Transfer to Computer

Sound Devices strongly recommends shutting down equipment before connecting to or from any FireWire device with a connection that carries power (6-pin). Reports have come to our attention of isolated problems when hot-plugging IEEE 1394 (FireWire) devices. (Hot-plugging refers to making connections when one or more of the devices—including the computer—is on.) When hot-plugging, there are rare occurrences where either the FireWire device or the FireWire port on the host computer is rendered permanently inoperable. From our experience, any FireWire connection which carries power is susceptible to this type of damage.

When connected via FireWire (IEEE-1394a) to a Mac OS or Windows OS computer (see Speciﬁ cations

for computer requirements), the internal hard drive and CF card mount onto a computer as “letter”

accessible mass storage volume. Use the appropriate FireWire cable (6-pin to 4-pin or 6-pin to 6-pin) for interconnection. Files on the 744T can be treated as if they are local ﬁ les, including renaming ﬁ les, copying, deleting and playing directly from the 744T hard drive.

In general, it is good practice to copy audio ﬁ les from the 744T to a computer before any processing is performed on the ﬁ les.

To connect the 744T for FireWire computer transfer:

1. Stop all playback and recording activity.

2. Make certain the 744T battery is fully charged, or connect to external DC.

3. Connect the 744T to the host computer with a FireWire cable.

4. Initiate connection the computer by hitting the STOP then the HDD key (or go to the FireWire Con-

nect menu item). The 744T will enter FireWire transfer, indicated by FIREWIRE CONNECTION on the LCD display. All functions of the 744T are stopped while the 744T is connected to a computer through FireWire.

5. Navigate to either the CF card or hard drive from the computer and copy all needed audio ﬁ les to local storage on the computer.

To avoid any possible directory corruption on the 744T do not interrupt the connection process and always properly dismount the drives from the operating system. On Mac OS platforms, drag the drive icons to the trash. On Windows platforms, use the “Disconnect External Media” icon in the system tray.

Dismount the 744T after ﬁ le transfer by “ejecting” the volume from the computer. In Mac OS, drag the disk icon from the desktop to the trash or hit -e. In Windows OS, highlight the disk icon, rightclick, and select “eject”. It is best practice to “eject” the 744T volume from the computer to maintain ﬁ le integrity (see FireWire File Transfer).

Page 8

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Front Panel Descriptions

All 744T settings can be accessed and monitored through the front panel LCD and navigation keys. This allows the unit to be placed in a production bag along with ﬁ eld mixers and wireless transmitters and receivers.

2 1

1) Digital Input LEDs

Indicates the presence of digital signal on the respective input. When ﬂ ashing, indicates that digital input is selected but no valid digital clock signal is present.

2) Input 1 Gain

Controls the analog gain (input trim) of the channel 1 input. Normal mic input range is from 25 dB to 70 dB, low gain mic range is from 10 dB to 55 dB, line input range is from −6 dB to 18 dB. For line-level inputs, this control can be defeated and gain can be setup menucontrolled. If the LCD display shows “locked” when the pot is turned, gain control of the line-level input is menucontrolled. When inputs are linked as a stereo pair, Input 1 Gain controls the gain of both inputs.

3) Input 2 Gain

Controls input 2 gain, as in #2 above. When inputs are linked as a stereo pair, Input 2 Gain controls left-to-right balance.

4) MENU Key

Used to access all 744T setup menu selections. When in menu mode, used to move up through the menu selections. Pressing the HDD and MENU keys simultaneously brings up the time code jam menu.

5 6

5) LCD Display

6) Tone Oscillator

7) Input-to-Track Matrix LEDs

8) INPUT Select Key

9) Level Meter LEDs

7 8 9 3

15 16 17 18 19

14 20 21 22 23 24

Primary display of 744T status. The LCD is backlit using the LCD backlight control (#15).

Tone frequency, tone level, and routing are controlled in the setup menu. Press and hold to activate the tone oscillator.

Blue LEDs indicate inputs (1, 2, 3, 4) enabled for recording to tracks (A, B, C, D). A solid blue LED indicates an input is routed to a track. A ﬂ ashing LED during “custom” routing mode shows the selected input/track combination.

Pressing the INPUT key brings up the input muting and routing menu. Hold down the INPUT key and press one of the four indicated soft keys to mute inputs. Pressing the STOP key and the INPUT select key cycles through the six factory preset input-to-track routing combinations plus the custom routing menu. In the custom routing menu any input can be routed to any track. See

Input-to-Track Routing, page 18.

Four, 19-segment track level-meters indicate level in dBFS. Metering ballistics are selected in the setup menu.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 9

10) Power Key

Press and hold to power up the 744T. Press and hold to power down.

11) Charge LED

Indicates the charge status of the onboard battery charger. LED ﬂ ashes when external power is connected and the removable battery is charging; illuminates solid when battery is fully charged.

12) Power LED

Indicates the 744T is powered and available for operation. LED ﬂ ashes when the removable battery or external DC is in a low-voltage state.

13) Record Key

Press to record. The 744T is a recordpriority device; pressing this key starts recording and discontinues all other functions, except ﬁ le operations. Pressing key during recording can set a cue marker or start a new ﬁ le, as selected in the setup menu.

14) Stop/Pause Key

Press and hold this key for 150 ms to stop recording. In playback mode, a single press pauses playback (play-pause), allowing audio scrubbing with the FF and REW keys. Another press of the key enters play-stop mode where the FF and REW keys select ﬁ les for playback from the current directory. One more press of the key exits playback mode. In the setup menu the stop key is also used to exit from any menu, returning to the main display.

15) LCD Backlight Key

Press to toggle LCD and keyboard backlighting. Hold the key and turn the Rotary Switch to adjust the brightness of LEDs. In menu mode, functions as the cancel key.

16) Fast-Forward Key

Performs fast-forward (FF) scrubbing through the played ﬁ le when pressed in playback and play-pause mode. Playpause indicated by ﬂ ashing A-time on LCD. Fast forward rate increases the longer the key is held. In play-stop mode (indicated by ﬂ ashing ﬁ lename on LCD) selects the next ﬁ le in the record folder (either daily folder or main folder).

17) Play Key

Plays back the ﬁ le displayed in the LCD. If pressed immediately after recording is stopped, the most recently recorded ﬁ le is played back.

18) Rewind Key

Performs reverse (REW) scrubbing through the played ﬁ le when pressed in playback and play-pause mode. Playpause indicated by ﬂ ashing A-time on LCD. Reverse playback rate increases the longer the key is held. In play-stop mode (indicated by ﬂ ashing ﬁ lename on LCD) selects the previous ﬁ le in the record folder (either daily folder or main folder).

19) HDD (File Viewer) Key

Press to enter the File Viewer. The selected medium shown in white type will be the destination when the button is pressed. Press-and-hold to toggle between available media. If only one media is present, press-and-hold is disabled. Pressing simultaneously with MENU opens the time code jam menu.

20) Headphone Output Peak LED

Indicates overload of the headphone ampliﬁ er. When lit, the headphone circuit is overloading. Reduce headphone level.

21) LIM LED

Indicates that the microphone input limiters are engaged. This LED does not show input limiting activity (see descrip-

tor #27, Microphone Input Limiter LEDs).

Page 10

744T User Guide and Technical Information

22) Link LED

Indicates that channels 1 and 2 are linked as a stereo pair. In link mode input 1 potentiometer controls gain, input 2 potentiometer controls left-to-right balance. Inputs can be linked as either a stereo L/R pair or as a a Mid-Side (MS) pair.

23) Media Ready LEDs

Indicates storage media is present and available to record; IN (internal hard drive), CF (Compact Flash), EX (external Firewire device). Flashing indicates media problem.

24) Media Activity LEDs

Indicates storage media read/write activity. IN (internal hard drive), CF (Compact Flash), EX (external Firewire device).

25) High-Pass Filter LEDs

Indicates that the high-pass (low-cut) ﬁ lter is active for the input. High-pass only operates when the input is set to microphone level.

26) Phantom Power LEDs

Indicates that phantom power (48 volts) is active for the individual input. Phantom can be applied to microphone or line-level signals (menu-selected).

27) Microphone Input Limiter LEDs

Illuminates orange when limiting is occurring on the microphone input. If constantly lit, the microphone input is being hit with too “hot” of a signal. Reduce the input sensitivity until limiting occurs infrequently.

28) Input Signal Presence LEDs

Indicates presence of analog or digital signal and its relative level on each of the four inputs.

29) Input Peak (Overload) LED

Indicates analog signal is approaching clipping (–3 dBFS) on each of the four inputs. Also used to indicate that an input is muted.

Panel Lock

Press and hold the backlight key then the tone key to bring up the front panel Button Lock Screen. Button lock prevents unintentional changing of settings or record status. The 744T will display the current mode the LCD screen.

select the soft buttons to activate the appropriate button lock mode

There are three modes:

• Unlocked – all buttons are accessible and operate normally.

• Non-Transport Lock – All front panel controls are locked except the Record, Stop, Play, Re- wind and Fast Forward.

• Lock All – All front panel keys are locked except the Record key. The Record key is kept active so the user can initiate recording after entering this mode and enter cue markers. To stop recording in this mode, you must disengage the panel lock and hit the stop key.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 11

LCD Display Descriptions

1) Battery Level Indicator

Shows voltage level of the removable battery or external power sources. External power overrides battery power when present. Graphical bar for relative level and numeric indicator for precise voltage measurement.

2) File Name Display

Shows ﬁ le name actively being recorded or played back. In playback-stop mode, ﬂ ashing ﬁ le name indicates that the fastforward and rewind keys can be used to step through ﬁ les in the current playback directory.

3) Absolute Time (A-time) Display

Shows the elapsed time of the ﬁ le being recorded or played back in hours, minutes, seconds, and tenths. The Atime and the time code display can be exchanged if a large time code display is needed. This display can be set to reverse or ﬂ ash during recording. Flashes in playback-pause mode.

4) Time & Date Display

Alternating display between the set date and time of the 744T. This information is written as the creation and modiﬁ cation date for generated audio ﬁ les.

5) Bit Depth Indicator

Shows the set record bit depth. In playback, shows the ﬁ le bit depth.

4 2 3

9 10

8 7

7) Time Code Rate

Shows the set time code frame rate. If a ﬁ le has time code information embedded, the playback frame rate is indicated. If external time code is connected and the external rate differs from the rate set internally, the time code rate will ﬂ ash.

8) Headphone Source Display

Indicates the source for headphone output. Sources and selection order are user selectable in the setup menus.

9) Time Code Display

In stop and record, shows the time code generated or received by the 744T. In play mode, the display shows the play ﬁ le’s time code information (if available). If non-time code ﬁ les are playing, the display shows dashes. The time code display can be exchanged with the Atime display via a user menu selection.

10) External Media Space Status

(space remaining/record ready)

If a drive is not attached the indicator shows dashed lines. Bar graph indicates amount of record time remaining on the external FireWire volume. Numbers show time in hours and minutes based on the presently selected number of record tracks, sample frequency, bit rate, and ﬁ le type.

6) Sample Rate Indicator

Shows the set record sampling rate. In playback shows the ﬁ le sampling rate.

Page 12

744T User Guide and Technical Information

11) Internal Hard Drive Status

(space remaining/record ready)

Bar graph indicates amount of record time remaining on the internal hard drive. Numbers show time in hours and minutes based on the presently selected of number of record tracks, sample frequency, bit rate, and ﬁ le type.

12) Compact Flash Status

(space remaining/record ready)

Bar graph indicates amount of record time remaining on the Compact Flash media. Numbers show time in hours and minutes based on the presently selected number of record tracks, sample frequency, bit rate, and ﬁ le type.

9 10

4 2 3

8 7

note the white-on-black number option to indicate recording (menu-selectable)

13) Input 1/2 Level

When input 1 or 2 gain is turned this indicates the gain level in dB for inputs 1 and 2. Normal mic input gain range is from 26 dB to 70 dB, low gain mic range is from 10 dB to 50 dB, line input range is from −6 dB to 18 dB. “Locked” will be displayed on the LCD when the pot is turned with digital inputs selected or with line inputs set to menu control.

14) Cue Marker Display

In record mode, indicates when cue markers are set. Markers set by pressing the record key (option must be selected in setup menu). In playback mode, displays cue points numerically as they are reached in a ﬁ le.

For all three media types, an asterisk in front of the media descriptor indicates that the media is selected for record. Highlighted media descriptor indicates media selected for record

15) External Digital Clock Indicator

The 744T is locked to a valid external digital or word clock source for recording when the L is in the display.

monitoring, playback or ﬁ le directory display.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 13

Left Panel Connectors and Controls

1) XLR Input 1/AES3 Input 1&2

Dual function input connection. Input type set with switch above. Active-balanced analog microphone- or line-level input for input 1. Transformer-balanced two-channel AES3 input (1 and 2).

2) XLR Input 2/AES3 Input 3&4

Dual function input connection. Input type set with switch above. Active-balanced analog microphone- or line-level input for input 2. Transformer-balanced two-channel AES3 input (3 and 4).

3) Mic-Line-AES3 Input Switch

Selects the input level and mode of the associated XLR input connector.

1 8 7

5) TA3 Master (L/R) Analog Outputs

Active-balanced, line-level analog L/R outputs for the Master Output Bus. Program source and attenuation level are user selectable. Pin-1 ground, pin-2 (+), pin-3 (–).

6) Headphone Output

3.5 mm TRS stereo headphone connector. Can drive headphones from 8 to 1000 ohm impedances to very high levels. Tip-left, ring-right, sleeve-ground.

7) Headphone Volume

Adjusts the headphone volume. NOTE: the 744T is capable of producing eardamaging levels in headphones.

4) TA3 Channel 3&4 Line Inputs

Active-balanced line-level input connectors. Pin-1 ground, pin-2 (+), pin-3 (−).

8) Tape Output

Unbalanced tape (–10 dBV nominal) output on 3.5 mm TRS stereo connector. Signal source is identical to the Master Output Bus. Tip-left, ring-right, sleeveground.

Page 14

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Right Panel Connectors and Controls

9 8 7 6 5

1) Time Code Multi-Pin

Time code input and output on 5-pin LEMO® connector.

2) AES3id Inputs 1/2 and 3/4

Unbalanced digital input accepta two channel AES3 (or S/PDIF) on BNC connectors. Supports sample rates up to 200 kHz.

3) FireWire (IEEE-1394) Port

Connection to a computer (Mac OS, Windows 2k/XP, Linux) to access the internal hard drive and Compact Flash volumes as mass storage devices. Also used to attach external FAT32-formatted FireWire drives to the 744T for direct recording and copying.

4 3 2

Word Clock Input and Out

6) Provides clock input and output for the 744T. Word input accepts sampling rates between 32 kHz and 192 kHz. Word clock output is the rate that box is running. There is no sample rate conversion onboard the 744T.

7) AES3id Output Bus 2 Unbalanced digital output, two-channel, for Output Bus 2. Signal source is menuselected.

8) AES3id Master Output Bus Unbalanced digital output, two-channel, for the Master Output Bus. Signal source is menu-selected and is identical to the Analog Master Output Bus signal.

4) C. Link In/Out

RS-232 protocol interface on 6-pin modular (“RJ-12”) connector for linking multiple 722 and 744T recorders together. Word clock, machine transport, and time code are carried on the C. Link connector.

External DC In

Accepts sources of 10–18 volts DC for unit powering and removable Li-ion battery charging. The Hirose 4-pin connector is wired pin-1 negative (−), pin-4 positive (+). Pin-2 (−) and pin-3 (+) are used to charge the removable Li-ion battery. DC ground at both pins-2 and 3 is at the same potential as chassis and signal ground.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

9) Multi-Function Rotary Switch When in the setup menu, the rotary switch moves between menu selections; push to enter selection or enter data. In record and playback modes, selects headphone monitor source; push action is user selectable.

Page 15

Back Panel Descriptions

1 32

1) Security Slot

Compatible with the Kensington® Security Slot speciﬁ cation. Useful for securing the recorder to a ﬁ xed object with a compatible computer lock.

2) Compact Flash Slot

Accepts Compact Flash medium with the label-side up. Compatible with Type I, Type II, and MicroDrives.

3) Battery Mount Accepts Sony® InfoLithium L- or MSeries batteries. Also accepts batteries conforming to this mount. Numerous capacities, from 1500 mAh to 7000 mAh are available.

Page 16

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Input Setup and Control

The 744T has four inputs and four record tracks. Inputs can be analog or digital sources. Analog inputs 1 and 2 use XLR connectors; inputs 3 and 4 use TA3 connections. Digital inputs can be either AES3 (balanced at the XLR) or AES3id (on BNC) inputs.

One analog pair and one digital pair can be used simultaneously.

Input Source Selection

Input sources are selected in pairs, 1, 2 and 3, 4. Each input pair (1, 2 and 3, 4) accepts analog or digital audio. The input signal type is selected using slide switch above the XLR input connector. The setup menu has additional input control.

Manually selecting the audio source is used to force the inputs to analog while using an AES3 or AES3id input to lock the 744T to an external sampling rate.

Digital sources connected to AES3id BNC inputs override analog signals on the corresponding XLR input. The BNC input signal type is set in the menu settings INPUT 1,2: SOURCE and INPUT 3,4: S O U R C E . For most situations the appropriate setting is auto select—the 744T will choose the input type based on signal present.

The 744T is capable of off-speed sampling rates when clocked from either external digital inputs or the word clock input.

Input sources can be set to “disabled (power save)”. This option shuts down all circuitry associated with an input pair to reduce power draw and extend battery runtime. When an input pair is disabled, the digital input LEDs associated with the pair will slowly ﬂ ash. In playback-only applications, both input pairs can be shut down to maximize power-efﬁ ciency and battery runtime.

Analog Inputs 1 and 2

Analog inputs 1 and 2, on XLR connectors, are the primary connections into the recorder. These inputs accept balanced or unbalanced mic- or line-level inputs. When at mic-level, gain is controlled by the front panel potentiometers. Gain for the line level inputs can be controlled by the front panel potentiometers or menu settings. Line input gain is controlled in 0.1 dB steps.

A digital input present on the BNC inputs will override an analog signal present on the XLR inputs unless the input source is set to analog in the setup menu.

In the setup menu, the following functions can be controlled for analog inputs 1 and 2:

Phantom Power

Phantom power (48 volts) can be activated for inputs 1 and 2. When active, phantom is indicated by front panel LEDs ( ).

Phantom power is available for both mic- and line-level inputs. Using line-level inputs with microphones is useful in high SPL environments such as concert recording. Make certain to turn off phantom power with line level output devices susceptible to damage from DC.

Shortcut: To toggle phantom power without entering the menus, press and hold the tone key then

press the menu key for channel 1. Channel 2 phantom can be toggled by pressing the tone key then

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 17

pressing the HDD key. If the inputs are in line level mode, phantom power will not activate from the shortcut keys and must be activated from the menus. Phantom power is linked when the inputs are linked. (See Input Linking)

Input Limiters (mic-level only)

Microphone inputs 1 and 2 each have a limiter circuit designed to prevent input overload. In normal operation, with proper gain settings, the limiters should rarely engage. When activated, these limiters will prevent unusually high input signal levels from clipping the analog input stage of the preamp. The front panel LIM LED ( ) shows that the limiter is engaged. Limiter activity is indicated by additional front panel LEDs, one for each input channel ( ). The input limiters are active only with mic-level inputs. The limiters are engaged by (factory) default.

When limiters are engaged, audio on channels 1 and 2 is limited to −6 dBFS.

Microphone Level Control

Microphone gain is controlled by the front panel recessed knobs. The gain control adjusts an analog gain stage and functions similarly to the input trim on a mixing console or stand-alone microphone preampliﬁ er. Gain is controllable over two ranges, normal and low.

Gain Range (microphone-level only)

The microphone inputs operate in two gain ranges, normal and low. The normal range controls input gain from 25 dB to 70 dB of gain. The low range controls input gain from 10 dB to 55 dB. The low range is useful for high SPL recording environments.

High-Pass Filters (microphone-level only)

The high pass ﬁ lters on the microphone inputs use a combination of analog and digital ﬁ lters to reduce sensitivity to low frequency signals. When the high-pass is engaged on an input, its front-panel LED illuminates to indicate it is active ( ). The ﬁ rst pole of the high-pass circuit is an analog ﬁ lter at 40 Hz, 6 dB per octave and is part of the microphone preampliﬁ er circuit. Additional poles of high-pass ﬁ ltering are done in DSP.

Several frequency and slope combinations are selectable, including corner frequencies of 40, 80, 160, or 240 Hz, and ﬁ lter slopes of 12 dB, 18 dB, or 24 dB per octave. The high-pass is selected for each input independently.

Shortcut: The ﬁ lters can be toggled with a two-key combination. Press and hold the LCD back-

light key and press the menu key for channel 1 high-pass. Press and hold the LCD backlight key and press the HDD key to toggle channel 2 high-pass. The high pass ﬁ lters are linked when the inputs are linked. (See Input Linking)

Line-Level Gain Control

When in line-level position, the gain for inputs 1 and 2 is controlled by the front panel recessed potentiometers or by a menu sensitivity setting. When set for front panel control in the user menu, LINE INPUT 1: GAIN and LINE INPUT 2: GAIN controls in the user menu are lined out and not accessible.

Input Linking (Stereo or MS Decoding)

Analog inputs 1 and 2 can be linked as a stereo pair. When linked, the channel 1 front panel potentiometer controls the signal level of both inputs, and the channel 2 pot controls the left-to-right balance of the pair. When the inputs are linked, their peak limiters are linked, as well.

When set to link as an MS pair, the inputs are decoded as MS stereo, where the gain and balance for the pair work the same as stereo linking above. Input 1 is for Mid signal, input 2 for Side signal.

Page 18

744T User Guide and Technical Information

When the inputs are linked, phantom power and the high pass ﬁ lters also act as linked pairs. Engagging and disengaging phantom power or the high pass ﬁ lters on input one will force the same function upon input two. Engaging or disengaging phantom power or the high pass ﬁ lter on input two causes no effect on input one.

If MS stereo linking is selected for inputs, program sent to tracks and headphones will be L/R stereo program. To record discrete M and S signals, do not link for MS, but monitor the MS signal in headphones.

Analog Inputs 3 & 4

Appearing on Switchcraft TA3 connectors, inputs 3 and 4 accept balanced or unbalanced linelevel signals. These inputs have few controls and are typically fed from the output of a mixer or preampliﬁ er.

Gain (sensitivity) for inputs 3 & 4 is controlled in the setup menu. Gain resolution is in 0.1 dB increments.

Analog Line Input Sensitivity

Input level sensitivity for the line-level inputs is adjustable, in 0.1 dB steps, from –6 dBu to +18 dBu. While adjusting the input sensitivity, the meters will show the relative signal level present on each input on the meters.

While channel 1 and 2 levels can be controlled by either the menu settings or the front panel pots, channels 3 and 4 are adjusted only in the setup menu.

Digital Inputs – AES3

The 744T accepts AES3 (AES/EBU) balanced digital at the XLR connectors. Digital inputs are in pairs—AES3 signals on XLR-1 appear at inputs 1 and 2, AES3 signals input to XLR-2 appear at inputs 3 and 4. To use the AES3 inputs, the input mode-select switch must be set to AES/EBU.

The front panel digital input LEDs will illuminate when digital input is selected for the in-

dicated track(s). If the LED is ﬂ ashing, digital input is selected but a no valid digital clock is received.

Digital Inputs – AES3id (S/PDIF)

The 744T accepts AES3id and S/PDIF unbalanced digital signals at the BNC connectors. The 744T will auto detect the type of digital signal and adjust accordingly. Input signals are in pairs, signals on BNC 1 appear at inputs 1 and 2, signals on BNC 2 appear at inputs 3 and 4.

AES3id inputs override analog signals present at the XLR inputs. To input analog audio while using the AES3id signal as a digital clock source, you must select analog in the input source menu selection for the appropriate inputs.

When a digital signal is present, the 744T will lock its sampling rate to the source frequency. This is indicated by a highlighted block pling rate indicators. Recording bit depth is not affected by the external digital source.

If you are locking the 744T to an external digital signal, be certain the source is stable. Loss of the digital signal will cause the 744T to revert to its internally set sampling rate, even while recording. The portion of the ﬁ le recorded after the loss of signal may not play back properly. Once recording has begun, unused digital inputs are muted, digital signals that appear on them after the record key has been pressed will not be recorded or affect the sampling rate of the 744T.

on the main LCD display to the right of the bit depth and sam-

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 19

The 744T clocks itself to the ﬁ rst digital signal presented to it. If the 744T detects a digital signal on the BNC inputs and locks to that signal, a digital signal applied to the XLR input will be ignored until the ﬁ rst digital signal is removed.

Signal Presence and Peak Indicator

The four signal presence and peak indicators show audio activity before input-to-track routing. Input signal presence LED’s illuminate when a –50 dBFS or greater signal is present. Input signal peak LEDs illuminate when signal levels reach –3 dBFS or greater.

Input Delay

A digital delay is selectable on each channel of the 744T. Delay time per input in one microsecond (µS) steps. 1,000 microseconds equals 1 millisecond (ms). The Rotary Switch and menu arrows are accelerated. The more you press or spin, the faster the time setting will increase or decrease. Delay is not set until the Rotary Switch is pressed or or the check mark is selected. The amount of delay available is dependent on the sampling frequency in use.

Sample Frequency

32, 44.1, 48, 48.048 kHz 30,000 µS

88.2, 96, 96.096 kHz 15,000 µS

176.4, 192 kHz 7,500 µS

Input delay can be useful for time aligning input signals from differing sources. For example, digital wireless mics that have a processing delay in their outputs. In addition, all digital conversion stages have delay.

Maximum Amount of Delay Available (per input)

Input-to-Track Routing

The 744T uses a ﬂ exible routing scheme to assign inputs and tracks for recording. The input matrix allows any input to be routed to any recording track. Multiple inputs can be routed to a single track to create mono-mixed recordings.

The 4-by-4 blue LED matrix makes it easy to view the set routing. A solid blue LED indicates an input is assigned to a record track.

any combination of the four inputs can be routed to any of the four tracks

Pressing the INPUT key brings up the following menu.

Page 20

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Routing

Hold down the STOP key then press the key to cycle through the six preset input-to-track routing combinations. These presets are factory set and cannot be changed. The last three preset selections are CUSTOM ROUTE options. Press the EDIT soft key to enter the custom routing menu. Custom routing allows any input to be assigned to any record track. In the menu, highlighted input and track combination are displayed in white text. The four inputs are shown on the left; the four record tracks are shown on the right.

To assign custom input routings:

1. Press the input key until INPUT ROUTING is displayed on the LCD display.

arrow indicates highlighted input is assigned to highlighted track

selet to move up and down menu

2. Press the EDIT soft button (

3. Using either the Rotary Switch or the up and down arrows, navigate to desired input-to-track combina-

tions.

4. When a chosen pairing is highlighted press either the ASSIGN soft key or the Rotary Switch to assign the combination. Assigned tracks are noted on the screen by the addition of an arrow pointing to the record track. The LED routing matrix will also show a ﬂ ashing blue LED for the currently selected input-totrack combination.

5. Once a track is assigned move to the next input-to-track combination desired.

6. To remove an input-to-track combination assignment, navigate that combination and press the

UNASSIGN soft key or Rotary Switch.

7. Exit and complete the assignment by pressing the check mark soft key.

) and scroll to the appropriate input screen.

select to exit menu and apply selected routing

select to remove input assignment

The input routing menu will always exit to the main screen whether entered from the input key or the menu selection.

Selective Input Muting

When the INPUT key is pressed, individual input muting is available. This feature can be used to quickly mute microphones while maintaining their respective track assignments.

Indicates that an input is available for routing.

No indication here shows that an input is muted.

A solidly lit input Peak LED indicates that an input is muted.

A solid illuminated Peak LED indicates that an input is muted

Mono- and polyphonic ﬁ les behave differently when selective muting is applied When monophonic ﬁ les are selected, ﬁ les from tracks A, B, C, and D are named with the sufﬁ x “_1, _2, _3, and _4” re-

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 21

spectively. If, for instance, track B is muted but tracks A, C, and D are still selected, the resulting ﬁ les will be named “_1, _3, and _4.” and track B will not be recorded, saving storage space.

When polyph B being a blank track. Blank tracks in polyphonic ﬁ les take up the same amout of storage space as tracks that are assigned.

Sampling Rate and Bit Depth

When recording to WAV (or BWF ﬁ les) the 744T generates uncompressed, PCM audio ﬁ les at the user-selected sampling rate and bit depth. The 744T LCD calculates available recording time based on the sampling rate, bit depth, number of tracks set for recording and the selected storage media available capacity. See the Calculating Recording Time later in this guide to estimate record time.

Sampling Rate

When a sampling rate is selected for recording, all tracks are recorded at the selected sampling rate. Sampling rates are selected among common rates from 32 kHz to 192 kHz. Additionally, nonstandard sampling rates can be applied when the 744T is word clocked from an external source (clock sources between 32 kHz and 192 kHz). When recording off-speed sampling rates ﬁ les will be stamped with the rate closest to an internally generated frequency.

Sampling Frequency = Available Audio Bandwidth

The sampling frequency is expressed in samples per second (in hertz) and deﬁ nes the number of times in a second that the analog audio signal has been measured. Sampling frequency determines the audio bandwidth, or frequency response, that can be represented by the digital signal. A quick estimate of the maximum bandwidth capable of being represented at a given sampling rate is maximum analog frequency = sampling frequency/2. Higher sampling frequencies allow for wider audio bandwidth.

The 744T generates the following sampling rates:

• 32 kHz

• 44.1 kHz

• 48 kHz

• 48.048 kHz

• 48.048F -ﬁ le stamped at 48 kHz

• 88.2 kHz

See Time Code section for more information about the 48.048F and 96.096F rates.

• 96 kHz

• 96.096 kHz

• 96.096F - ﬁ le stamped at 96 kHz

• 176.4 kHz

• 192 kHz

Bit Depths

The 744T records at bit depths of either 16 or 24 bit. 24 bit recording provides greater dynamic range and addition headroom for signal peaks relative to 16 bit recordings. 24 bit recording (versus 16 bit) is a signiﬁ cant beneﬁ t for ﬁ eld production audio tracks.

Bit Depth = Available Dynamic Range

Bit depth deﬁ nes the digital “word length” used to represent a given sample. Bit depth correlates to the maximum dynamic range that can be represented by the digital signal. Larger bit depths

Page 22

744T User Guide and Technical Information

accomodate more dynamic range. A quick estimate of maximum dynamic range capable of being represented by a given word length is dynamic range ~= no. of bits x 6 dB. Bit depth is an exponential measure (exponent of 2), so as bit depth increases, the amount of data it represents increases exponentially. The majority of ﬁ eld recording is done with 16-bit audio, therefore, each sample is represented by a digital word of 2^16 (65,536) possible values. 24-bit audio has a word length of 2^24 (16.7 million) possible values per sample.

The 744T has 24 bit analog-to-digital converters. To obtain 16 bit recording the 744T can be set to dither 24 bit digital signals to 16 bit. The 744T uses a proprietary pseudo-random dither routine for accurate bit rate reduction. Dither can be defeated in the user menu. Without dither, 24 bit audio is truncated to 16 bit, meaning the least signiﬁ cant 8 bits are discarded.

Once a ﬁ le is recorded its sampling rate and bit depth can not be changed in the recorder. The 744T does not perform sample rate conversion or bit depth changes. File conversion must be done in another environment, such as an audio workstation. Alternatively, a real-time analog transfer is often performed instead of sample rate conversion.

Word Clock

A stable word clock source is essential for high quality digital audio. The 744T uses a rock-stable time code crystal to generate its internal word clock frequencies. The 744T can clock external devices from its word clock and accept and lock to external clock sources for recording.

The 744T disregards external clock, both AES and word clock, during playback.

Clock Master

When sending digital audio to several devices, one unit is designated as the word clock master and the others as slaves. Generally, the device with the analog-to-digital converter is designated as the word clock master.

The 744T can function as an A/D converter and can be used as the master word clock source. Slaved digital devices derive their word clock timing from either their digital audio inputs, S/PDIF or AES/ EBU, or through their word clock input connection. As a word clock master the 744T generates word clock whether or not audio is sent. If devices use separate word clock sources unpredictable behavior wil result.

Clock Slave

When connecting digital audio sources to the 744T inputs, the recorder will derive its clock signal from the AES (S/PDIF) stream. It will slave to the external device. If, for example, you are using a wireless receiver with a digital output, it may not have an external word clock input, and will be the word clock master.

If digital audio is connected to the 744T from more than one digital device, you must word clock theses sources together, otherwise variations between the sources will render their signals unusable.

If the 744T is slaved to external word clock, be certain that the source is stable. Loss of the word clock signal during recording can cause the 744T to revert back to its internally set sampling frequency. If this occurs, the portion of the ﬁ le recorded after the loss of word clock may not play back at the proper speed. For reliability, we recommend you set the 744T to the same sample frequency as the word clock source. Loss of the word clock signal in this case will most likely cause a glitch in the ﬁ le, but the ﬁ le may still be usable.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 23

Multi-Unit Linking Via C. Link

The proprietary C. Link (control link) connection enables multiple 744T, 722, 702T, and 702 recorders to be connected for recordings requiring high track counts. C. Link also enables connection to the CL-1 Remote Control and Keyboard Interface.

When linked, the 7-Series recorders have a master/slave relationship. When the master recorder is put into record, the slave unit will roll as well. Multiple units can be daisy-chained together to record nearly unlimited tracks. The C. Link protocol links carries the following data:

• word clock

• time code information (744T, 702T only)

• RS-232 machine transport data

master

unit

slave

unit

slave

unit

To link units:

1. Connect multiple units as shown in the illustration above.

2. Set all linked recorders to the same sampling rate, bit depth, ﬁ le format, and time code frame rate (if

used). This will ensure that all ﬁ les generated are compatible.

3. If time code is being used, set slave units to External time code mode so that they will follow the master recorder’s time code generator.

4. Set scene names on each of the units for easy identiﬁ cation in post production. Take numbers should be set to the same on all linked recorders if take numbers are reset before recording. There is no ﬁ le name synchronization with multiple unit linking.

When linked, record start and stop on slave units will not affect units “above” in the linked chain. This makes it possible for units to get out of synchronization if a unit other than the master is set to record or stop. Using the master unit will assure that all machines begin and end recording together.

The C. Link jack is a proprietary RS-232 port. Under no circumstances should analog or digital telephone lines be connected to either jack. Serious damage to the recorder could result.

Page 24

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Outputs – Analog and Digital

The 744T has two two-channel output buses , the Master Output Bus and Output Bus 2. Each of these buses is assigned audio sources independently, enabling the 744T to feed multiple outputs with unique program.

The chart below shows the audio sources available for the each channel of the Master Output Bus and Output Bus 2 connections. The audio sources for each output bus are selected in the setup menu.

Available Output Sources Description

Input 1 Input 2 Input 3 Input 4

Tr a ck A Tr a ck B Tr a ck C Tr a ck D

Input 1,2 Input 3,4 Input 1,3 Input 2,4 Input 1,2,3 Input 2,3,4 Input 1,2,3,4

Tr a ck A,B Tr a ck C,D Tr a ck A,C Tr a ck B,D Tr a ck A,B,C Tr a ck B,C,D Tr a ck A,B,C,D

Inputs are assignable for each channel of the output bus.

When inputs are selected as the source for the outputs, the state of recording or playback activity has no effect on the output signal. This allow uninterrupted audio at the outputs.

Multiple inputs are summed with these selections.

Multiple track assignments are summed with these selections.

Master Output Bus

Audio signals routed to the Master Output Bus are sent to three output connections:

• analog line out, 2 x TA3, two-channel

• analog tape out, 3.5 mm TRS, two-channel

• digital 1, AES3id, BNC connection, two-channel

Analog Line Out L, R

The analog line outputs are active-balanced line-level signals on Switchcraft TA3M locking connectors. The output level is a nominally 0 dBu at −20 dBFS. The level of the line output can be attenuated in the setup menu by up to 40 dB in 1 dB increments. Attenuation is done as an output pair.

Analog Tape Output

The tape output connection is stereo, unbalanced consumer output level (–10 dBV) on a TRS 3.5 mm connector. Output attenuation affects this output level.

Digital AES3id Output

The unbalanced AES3id output is directly compatible with most S/PDIF inputs.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 25

The format for the AES3id output is selectable between professional AES and SPDIF. In either case the SCMS bit is not set.

Attenuation to the Master Output Bus affects both analog and digital signals.

Output Bus 2

Just as with the Master Output Bus, Output Bus 2 can be assigned signal sources from inputs or tracks. Sources assigned to Output Bus 2 are exclusive and do not affect the assignments to the Master Output Bus or headphone assignments. The same signal sources available for the Master Output Bus are available for Output Bus 2 (see chart above).

Digital AES3id Output 2

Output Bus 2 appears solely on the AES3id BNC output connector. There is no analog output connections for Output Bus 2. The unbalanced AES3id output is directly compatible with most S/PDIF inputs. The maximum output level is 0 dBFS and can be attenuated in the setup menu in 1 dB increments by 40 dB.

Headphone Output

The 744T headphone output is a ﬂ exible tool for monitoring audio in the ﬁ eld. The 744T allows the user to monitor inputs, tracks, and post-record tracks in a number of combinations. MS stereo and B-format surround decoding are also available in headphones.

The headphone output is independent of the Master Output Bus and the Output Bus 2—audio sources can be routed to headphones independent of routing assignments to output buses.

The 744T is capable of driving headphones to extremely high sound pressure levels. Hearing experts advise against exposure to high sound pressure levels for extended periods.

Selecting Headphone Sources

The headphone source display on the main LCD screen ( ) shows the audio sources sent to headphones. The 744T comes from the factory with several preset headphone audio source selections available on the Rotary Switch. These selections include inputs, tracks and track monitors. Turn the Rotary Switch to select among the available headphone monitoring sources.

Track Monitoring While Recording (Conﬁ dence Monitoring)

The 744T can monitor actual recorded audio written to the internal hard drive or CompactFlash during recording. This is commonly referred to as “conﬁ dence monitoring”. To monitor recorded tracks, during recording select one of the track monitor modes. Because of the record buffering topology of the 744T, a delay of up to 12 seconds can be expected before recorded audio appears at the output. The 744T will play back recorded audio from the media highlighted on the LCD panel (see File Man-

agement and Copying for more information on selecting and highlighting storage medium).

Setting Headphone Source Options

In addition to the 10 preset headphone routings, a total of 20 available “slots” can be ﬁ lled in a user deﬁ ned order. Headphone monitoring sources can be set from various combinations of inputs, tracks, and post-record tracks, including stereo MS decoding, and SoundField B-Format surround decoding. The order of headphone selections is user selectable. Available audio sources for headphone monitoring include:

Page 26

744T User Guide and Technical Information

HP Sources Description

Inputs 1,2 Inputs 3,4

Tracks A,B Tracks C,D

Monitor A,B Monitor C,D

Input 1, 1 Input 2, 2 Input 3, 3 Input 4, 4

Tr a ck A, A Tr a ck B, B Tr a ck C, C Tr a ck D, D

Monitor A, A Monitor B, B Monitor C, C Monitor D, D

Inputs 1, 2 (MS) Inputs 3, 4 (MS)

Tracks A, B (MS) Tracks C, D (MS)

Monitor A,B (MS) Monitor C,D (MS)

Inputs 1+2+3+4, 1+2+3+4 Inputs 1, 2+3+4 Inputs 1+2, 1+2 Inputs 1+3, 1+3 Inputs 2+4, 2+4 Inputs 3+4, 3+4 Inputs 1+2, 3+4 Inputs 1+3, 2+4

Tracks A+B+C+D, A+B+C+D Tracks A, B+C+D Tracks A+B, A+B Tracks A+C, A+C Tracks B+D, B+D Tracks C+D,C+D Tracks A+B, C+D Tracks A+C, B+D

Inputs B-format stereo Tracks B-format stereo

Stereo monitoring of input pairs. Inputs 1 and 3 are assigned to left headphone output; inputs 2 and 4 are assigned to right headphone output.

Stereo monitoring of track pairs. Tracks 1 and 3 are assigned to left headphone output; tracks 2 and 4 are assigned to right headphone output. Upon playback, will play as track monitor.

Stereo monitoring of playback (post-record) track pairs. Tracks 1 and 3 are assigned to left headphone output; tracks 2 and 4 are assigned to right headphone output.

When using the recorded track monitor selection, there is a sample rate dependent delay in the signal. At 48 kHz sampling, the delay is approximately 12 seconds. This delay is due to the record buffering topology. Audio can not be monitored until it has left the record buffer and written to the recording media.

Solo monitoring of selected input. This signal is sent to both sides of the headphones.

Solo monitoring of selected track. This signal is sent to both sides of the headphones. Upon playback, will play as track monitor.

Solo monitoring of playback (post-record) track. Highlighted media is source of monitor program. This signal is sent to both sides of the headphones. When not in playback, headphones have no program.

Stereo monitoring of discrete M (mid) and S (side) input pairs. Highlighted media is source of monitor program.

Stereo monitoring of discrete M (mid) and S (side) track pairs. Highlighted media is source of monitor program. Upon playback will function as MS track monitor.

Stereo monitoring of playback (post-record) discrete M (mid) and S (side) track pairs. Highlighted media is source of monitor program. When not in playback, headphones have no program.

Combinations of summed inputs appear in each ear. The first selection is summed mono monitoring of all four inputs.

Combinations of summed tracks appear in each ear. The first selection is summed mono monitoring of all four tracks.

The built-in SoundField B-format decoder uses three input or record tracks to build a left/right stereo signal for monitoring.

When tracks (A, B, C, or D) are monitored in headphones, audio assigned to the tracks is heard in headphones during recording. During playback the recorded track audio is heard in headphones.

To set the available headphone source options for headphone monitoring:

1. Enter the HP: MONITOR modes menu. Once you enter the Monitor Modes menu you will immediately be in slot-1.

2. Turn the Rotary Switch to select the source you wish to appear ﬁ rst in your Headphone monitor list.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 27

3. Once the chosen source appears, press the Rotary Switch or the soft key ENTER (tone) key to move to the next slot.

4. Continue down the list to select the source for each slot in the list.

5. Once all sources have been chosen, select DONE and press ENTER. This will exit the headphone monitor mode setup. You can exit the selection process by pressing the stop or cancel (backlight) key at any time.

If you press (done) in the ﬁ rst headphone slot, the 744T will select a single option (Tracks A, B) for headphone monitoring. The 10 factory presets will be erased.

MS Stereo Monitoring

The MS stereo mode decodes discrete Mid-Side stereo signals to a left/right stereo signal for monitoring purposes. This allows for a proper stereo signal to be monitored in the ﬁ eld while discrete M and S signals are recorded for later post production. For the MS decoder to operate properly, the Mid signal is connected to either input 1 (or input 3) and the Side signal is connected to input 2 (or input

4). The amount of stereo “spread” is ﬁ xed to a 50/50 percentage from Mid to Side signal.

If MS is selected for input linking, do not use MS stereo monitoring. This would result in two MS decoders being inserted in the signal path. The resulting audio in the headphones would be the discrete M and S signals!

SoundField B-Format Surround Monitoring

SoundField B-format is a four channel surround sound format generated by SoundField surround microphones. The 744T can accept the four signals output from a SoundField microphone and record each to its own track.

When recording four-channel B-format audio, the 744T headphone monitor can decode the B-format signal into L/R stereo. The 744T contructs a stereo signal using the W, X, and Y signals of the B-format. The Z-axis signal is not used. Similar to the 744T’s MS stereo monitoring, the stereo width is ﬁ xed for headphone monitoring.

To record and monitor B-format signals, connect signals as follows:

SoundField ➞ 744T ➞ Resulting File Name (for monophonic ﬁ le type) W signal ➞ input 1, track A ➞ FILE _ 1.WAV X signal ➞ input 2, track B ➞ FILE _ 2.WAV Y signal ➞ input 3, track C ➞ FILE _ 3.WAV Z signal ➞ input 4, track D ➞ FILE _ 4.WAV

SoundField ﬁ les generated in other recorders or software applications can be copied to CompactFlash or the 744T hard drive and can be played back and monitored in stereo. Make certain that channel asignments follow the order above for proper headphone decoding. If multiple monophonic SoundField .wav ﬁ les are named using the “_W, _X, _Y, _Z” sufﬁ xes, the 744T will recognize that these are multiple monophonic B-format ﬁ les and will play them back in the proper track order.

The 744T can play back monophonic or polyphonic B-format ﬁ les.

There are two B-format monitoring selections, one for inputs and one for tracks. They are listed as INPUT B-FMT STEREO and TRACK B-FMT STEREO. For most recording and playback applications the track monitor selection is appropriate. If the user wants to hear the inputs at all times, the input monitor selection is appropriate.

Page 28

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Rotary Switch Behavior

The action of the Rotary Switch during recording and playback is set from among the three available options:

• Disabled: pushing the Rotary Switch has no effect.

• Selects Favorite Mode: places the headphone source into the mode selected in the HP Favorite

menu.

• Headphones to C/D meters: shows the level of the headphone output on the C/D track me-

ters.

• Playback/Monitor Drive Select: pushing the Rotary Switch toggles between Internal Hard

Drive, CompactFlash, and External Hard Drive for playback and monitoring while recording.

Headphone Favorite Selection

If “SELECTS FAVORITE MODE” is selected from the choices above, pushing the Rotary Switch selects the assigned “Headphone Favorite” source. This feature is helpful to quickly return to a selected headphone monitoring selection while recording or playing. One of the available headphone selection can be selected as the headphone favorite.

Headphone Playback Mode

A single headphone source can be set to automatically activate upon playback. All headphone monitor combinations are available for the Headphone Playback Mode, as well as “No Change”, which makes no change to the headphone selection during playback. Headphone Playback Mode is selected in the setup menu.

Headphone Warning Tones

The 744T can generate an audible beep, or warning “bell”, in the headphones when an error has occurred. The speciﬁ c error will be reported on the LCD. The output level of the warning bell can be selected from off or –20 to –12 dBFS in the setup menu.

Recording Start and Stop Tones

If activated from the setup menu the start of recording can be indicated audibly by a single, 440 Hz tone sent solely to headphones. When recording is stopped, two 220 Hz tones play in headphones.

Low Battery Warning

When either the attached battery or external power supply voltage reaches their low warning levels (6.5 V for the attached Li-ion, 11.0 V or user-selectable for external) warning tones are played in headphones. The warning tone is a three pop note of 880 Hz every 20 seconds.

If all warning tones are turned off, no tones are sent to headphones, including low battery warning tones.

Metering and Display

The 744T features a 76 LED (4 x 19) output meter. The DSP-controlled output meter provides a selection of ballistics and lighting intensities. In addition, separate peak indicators on input channels show clipping activity.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 29

Output Meter

0 dBFS track LEDs are programmable as peak LEDs (0 dBFS to −20 dBFS)

The meter uses energy efﬁ cient LEDs which are viewable in full sunlight. The 744T output meter is unaffected by shock or extremes in temperature and humidity. Meter ballistics are setup menu selectable among VU, Peak, Peak-Hold, VU + Peak and VU + PeakHold.

The meter uses a non-linear metering scale which increases meter resolution in the most important part of the scale. From −50 to −40 dBFS, each LED segment equals approximately 10 dB. From −40 to

−12 dBFS, each segment equals 2 dB. From −12 to 0 dBFS each segment equals 4 dB.

Meter Ballistics

The output meter can be set to display any of ﬁ ve types of meter ballistics: VU, Peak, Peak-hold, a combination of VU and Peak, and a combination of VU with Peak-hold. The meter ballistics are selected in the setup menu.

VU - (Volume Units)

Ballistics correspond closely to how the human ear perceives loudness and provides a good visual indication of how loud a signal will be. In VU mode, the attack and decay of the meter signal is 300 mS. While giving a very good visual indication of perceived loudness, VU meters gives poor information on actual signal peaks and are virtually useless for tracking to the 744T. In VU mode, the front panel meter labeling is in volume units.

Peak

Peak-reading ballistics correspond to actual signal maximums, but don’t necessarily correspond to perceived signal loudness. A peak meter has a near-instantaneous attack to display maximum signal amplitude and a slow decay to allow the user to see them. Peak metering is essential for digital recording, since signal overload can cause immediate distortion. The peak meters front panel markings are calibrated in dBFS, decibels relative to full-scale digital signal.

Peak Hold

Essentially the same as Peak metering where the peak level indication will hold for the peak level indication for several seconds. Peak-hold indicators are useful for metering in applications when an overload condition is unacceptable.

Peak/VU

The meter can simultaneously display VU and Peak level information. In this mode the perceived loudness (VU) is displayed on a bar graph, and the Peak signal on a dot above the VU. With this combination the user gets the best of both VU and Peak metering by seeing both the “loudness” of the signal and the peaks at the same time. Peak/VU is the factory default.

Peak Hold/VU

Similar to VU/Peak mode, this mode holds the peak level indication for several seconds before releasing. Peak Hold indicators are useful for metering in applications when an overload condition is unacceptable.

Page 30

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Peak LEDs

input peak LEDs

input signal present LEDs

headphone peak LED

In addition to the main LED output meter, peak LEDs show input peaks, track peaks, and headphone peaks.

Input Peak

The 744T has a peak LED associated with each input. These LEDs illuminate when input signal reaches –3 dBFS. There is no user-adjustment to the Input Peak LEDs. These LED’s also function as indicators of input mute activity (see Input-to-Track Routing).

Track Peak

The 0 dBFS LED on each track can also function as a track peak indicator. The user can select a signal threshold above which the 0 dB LED will ﬂ ash.

Headphone Peak

Like the channel peak LEDs, the headphone circuit has an indicator for peak overload. This LED is useful, since headphones can often overload before the recorder overloads. Monitoring without a visual indication of headphone clipping may mislead the operator into thinking that the output or return tracks are distorting.

Tone Oscillator

The tone oscillator level and frequency are user selectable. Reference level is adjustable over a range of −40 to 0 dBFS. Reference tone frequency is adjustable from 100 to 10,000 Hz. Standard tone levels vary according to the practices and needs of production and post-production, but are generally in the –20 to −12 dBFS range.

The tone oscillator is activated by pressing the front panel the tone key is pressed. Tone is routed where speciﬁ ed in the setup menu. Routing choices include: outputs, outputs and tracks, tracks only, or no tone routing (disabled). When routed to tracks, all selected record tracks will receive the tone signal. Tone can only be recorded to the head of an audio ﬁ le. To record tone, press the tone key and continue to hold it down while starting to record. Subsequent presses of the tone key are locked out to prevent tone from inadvertently being recorded.

key. Tone will active only while

LCD Contrast & Backlight, LED Brightness

LCD contrast is setup menu controlled. From the factory the contrast is set to 50%, suitable for most viewing conditions. Contrast can be increased or decreased.

The front panel ambient light situations.

LED brightness is continuously adjustable from low to high. Hold down the key, then turn the Rotary Controller to change brightness levels. The brightness of all LED’s is adjusted. In stealth mode (setup menu selected) the LEDs are toggled on and off with the LCD backlight key.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

key toggles the LCD and key backlight. Backlighting is suitable in low or no

Page 31

Record Indication

The position of the A-time numbers and time code numbers can be exchanged in the setup menu. When BIG TIME CODE is selected in the menu the time code is displayed in the main numeric display. If time code is turned off A-time is shown as large numbers, even with BIG TIME CODE set.

To provide for additional visual indication that recording is in process the big numerals can be set to reverse contrast or to ﬂ ash during record. This is menu-selected.

reversed numbers indicating that recording is active

Time Code

The 744T uses time code circuitry developed by Ambient Recording GmbH, a leading developer of stable, portable time code products (visit Ambient on the web at www.ambientaudio.com). Clock stability and continuity are critical aspects of the 744T time code implementation. Its temperaturecontrolled (compensated) crystal oscillator ensures rock solid TC stability and accuracy (< 0.2 ppm when tuned with an Ambient Master Controller).

The 744T holds accurate time code for up 2 hours between battery changes using its internal, rechargeable AA NiMH time code cell. After two hours without power, the 744T reverts to a less precise time-of-day crystal to maintain the date/time of the unit. This time code battery is charged from internal or external power whenever the 744T is powered up.

If the time-of-day clock is reset during the production day or if the time code mode is changed from 24 hour run to another mode and back, the time code value will change. You must re-jam all time code devices to ensure proper synchronization.

File-based recorders place a single time code stamp in the data header of an AES31 (Broadcast WAV) ﬁ le. The 744T generates SMPTE time code from this number and extrapolates it based on the time code frame rate for playback.

All ﬁ les generated by the 744T have time code numbers begin on the 0 frame (or 02 in DF modes). If necessary, pre-roll is dynamically applied to accomplish this. This simpliﬁ es synchronization in post-production.

Frame Rate

A single time code frame rate is selected in the TIMECODE:FRA MERATE menu.

The 744T supports all of the common production time code rates, including:

• 23.976 – used with Sony high deﬁ nition video cameras

• 24 – to sync audio to ﬁ lm where no transfer to NTSC video is expected

Page 32

744T User Guide and Technical Information

• 25 – to sync sound to PAL video

• 29.97 – to sync sound to NTSC video shot in non-drop frame mode and Panasonic high deﬁ ni-

tion cameras

• 29.97DF - to sync sound to NTSC video shot in drop frame mode

• 30 – to sync sound to ﬁ lm where transfer to NTSC video is expected

• 30DF – to sync sound to ﬁ lm for transfer to NTSC video in drop-frame mode 29.97 fps

48048-F Sampling Rate Mode

The 48.048-F mode (F stands for fake, faux, Fostex—take your pick) is a speciﬁ c compatibility mode for use with the Fostex DV40 software (1.74 and previous), Avid, Final Cut Pro, and other post-production environments that do not recognize audio ﬁ les written at 48.048 kHz. In this mode ﬁ les are recorded at a 48.048 kHz sampling rate but are stamped at 48 kHz. When played, they will play back

0.1% slower than real time.

One use for the 48.048-F mode is to force a 0.1% speed reduction (pull down) of audio to match MOS-telecined ﬁ lm (24 fps-to-NTSC) in non-linear edit systems, such as Avid or Final Cut Pro. Since the ﬁ le is stamped as a 48 kHz ﬁ le, the edit system will play it back at 48 kHz and not at 48.048 kHz. This “audio pull down” will match the transfered picture without the need for an intermediate step through other software to create the pull down.

The time code frame rate (actual recording rate) is forced to 30 ND in 48.048-F mode. The front panel of the unit will show 30 ND during recording. No other frame rate is available in 48.048-F mode.

The audio ﬁ le, however, is stamped with a 29.97 ND frame rate, along the 48 kHz sampling rate. It will appear as if the ﬁ le was originally recorded at a 48 kHz sampling rate at a TC rate of 29.97 ND.

on playback, file appears at 48 k, 29.97 ND

the file is recorded at 48.048 k, 30 ND

Fostex DV40

When using ﬁ les recorded in the 48.048-F mode in an older software versioned DV40, set the DV40 time code frame rate to 29.97ND. Time code stamps will properly match the original time code start times.

Time Code Modes

The 744T includes the following time code modes:

Off

The time code generator is disabled. The front panel time code display is blank.

Free Run:

The internal time code generator runs continuously without regard to the record mode. Any time code value can be used as the start value by “jamming value” in the jam menu.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 33

Record Run

The time code generator runs only when the 744T is recording. Time code in this mode defaults to 00:00:00:00 at power-up. When switching to record run from another mode, the internal generator will stop at the last number generated. A user-deﬁ ned value can be jammed into the internal generator from the jam menu.

Free Run Jam Once

The onboard time code generator will re-jam from external time code whenever a valid, running time code signal is connected to the TC input. Similar to free run mode, the generator runs continuously without regard to record mode. For a jam to occur, the time code signal must be disconnected and re-connected to the time code input. Free run Jam Once is useful when using the recorder as a slave, although one of the External TC modes may be more appropriate for slaved operation.

24 Hour Run

Identical to free run with the exception that the generator will automatically jam itself from the time-of-day clock on power-up. The generator will also re-jam if the time-of-day clock is reset. Once jammed, the generator will run continuously from the time code clock, not the time-of-day clock.

Ext TC

The internal time code generator follows an external time code signal appearing at the time code input. In all of the external time code modes the time code value set on the 744T appears as the recorded ﬁ le’s time code rate value.

Ext TC/cont

The internal time code generator follows an external time code signal appearing at the time code input. If the external time code is removed the internal generator continues to run to preserve continuous time code. Useful for time code transmission over RF where RF “hits” may interrupt time code.

Ext TC-Auto Record

The internal time code generator follows the external time code signal appearing at the time code input. When external code advances, the 744T enters record mode automatically. When the external code is stopped, the 744T generator pauses and recording is stopped. This is appropriate when dualsystem sound is used with video cameras set for Rec Run time code. The video camera will function as master time code and the recorder “transport” will follow the video camera transport.

Ext TC/cont-Auto Record

The internal time code generator follows the external time code signal appearing at the time code input. When external code advances, the 744T enters record mode automatically. When the external code is stopped, the 744T generator pauses and recording is stopped. If the external time code is removed the internal generator continues to run to preserve continuous time code. Useful for time code transmission over RF where RF “hits” may interrupt time code. This is appropriate when dualsystem sound is used with video cameras set for Rec Run time code. The video camera will function as master time code and the recorder will follow.

In Free Run Jam Once and all four external time code modes, time code is recalculated, “back stamped,” when external static time code advances after the 744T begins recording. If external time code does not advance, the ﬁ le will be stamped with the stopped time code number. Back stamping the ﬁ le allows the audio time code to properly correspond to picture time code if sound rolls before picture in a video Rec Run environment.

Page 34

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Jam Menu

external time code/u-bit value received by 744T

menu selection

press to jam

current 744T timecode/u-bit value

Time code setup is done from the jam menu selection, TIMECODE JAM MENU. Pressing the drive key and menu keys simultaneously quickly enters the jam menu. In this menu, the top of the display shows the value of signal present on the time code input and the bottom of the display shows the currently set time code value. In addition, the 744T displays the frame rate of the incoming time code and the current frame rate setting of the 744T.

The 744T time code generator can be set in three ways.

Jam RX TC

When the JAM RX TC menu item is highlighted in the jam menu, the external time code, user bits, and frame rate are shown at the top of the LCD screen; the 744T internal generator, user bits, and frame rate are shown at the bottom of the screen. To jam the 744T from an external value, press soft key next to the jam button or the Rotary Switch button. The screen will display JAMMING. Once the 744T is jammed to the external time code, the external and internal numbers will match and run in sync.

no valid time code is received

Make certain that the external time code source appears in the time code jam menu. If the 744T does not receive valid time code from the sending source the jam menu displays lines in place of numbers.

Identical to the Ambient Recording series of time code products, the 744T time code generator can “cross jam” differing frame rates. The 744T will cross jam time code at the top of the second for phase-accurate (the 00 frames will match) time code at the set frame rate.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 35

Jam Zeros

This menu selection resets the internal generator to zero.

value to jam, or zeros

press to jam

menu selection

744T current timecode value

Jam Value

Press enter (tone key) or the Rotary Switch button to jam the user-entered time code start value into the internal generator.

Edit Value

This menu allows the user to set any valid time code value (00:00:00:00–23:59:59:29) for entry with the jam value selection above. The initial screen of this menu shows the currently set value as well as the current time code setting of the 744T. Press the Rotary Switch or the enter key (tone key) to enter into edit mode. The user can set the time code numbers in pairs (hours, minutes, seconds and frames). Once (DONE) is selected the value is available to jam into the internal generator with the jam value selection.

A value is not jammed into the 744T time code generator until JAM VALUE is selected.

User Bits

The 744T has seven user-selectable user bit modes. Time code user bits are a portion of the time code data which can be allocated however the user chooses. Commonly, user bits carry information such as the date, take, sound roll, or camera roll number.

User bits are edited from the EDIT U-BIT selection in the jam menu. Press enter (tone key) or the Rotary Switch to enter user bit edit mode. The screen will show the format and setting of the user bits. Using the Rotary Switch or the soft-button up and down arrows, user bit digits can be edited (in pairs). Once DONE is selected, the user bits are set. If editing is not available in the selected user bit mode “NO USER EDITS“ will appear in the screen.

NTSC Standard Def Video Production

NTSC video uses a frame rate of 29.97 frames per second. Unfortunately, that leaves 108 frames per hour unaccounted. To keep 29.97 time code in sync with “clock” time, the concept of “drop frame” was devised. Two frames are dropped at the top of each minute not divisible by 10. 54 drops per hour x 2 frames = 108 frames per hour.

To sync the 744T to a video camera, ﬁ rst determine if the camera is in drop frame or non-drop frame mode. If you, the DP or the producer are unsure about what setting to use, check with post-production, if possible.

As a rough guideline, video for NTSC broadcast is drop-frame. Whether at drop or non-drop rates, make certain all time code devices are at the same rate.

Page 36

744T User Guide and Technical Information

1. Set the 744T to either 29.97DF or 29.97 respectively.

2. Jam the camera using a LEMO-5 to BNC adapter cable connected to the time code input on the video

camera.

3. Switch the camera to free run time code. The 744T time code should appear in the time code display on the camera.

4. Disconnect the time code cable.

The camera and recorder time code should now be running in sync. Check it after roughly 5 minutes to be certain synchronization is maintained.

Video cameras are notorious for time code instability when switched off. If the video camera must be shut down, re-jam it when it is powered back up.

Recording

The user interface of the product has been designed similar to a “tape recorder”. Recording and playback functions are quite similar to that of tape-based machines. The ﬂ exibility of ﬁ led-based recording provides control not possible with tape-based recorders.

Recording

The largest, most easily accessed control on the 744T is its record key. Recording takes priority over all activity except for disk formatting, disk speed tests, and ﬁ le transfers. The 744T will immediately enter record mode whenever the record key is pressed. When recording, the adjacent red LED will illuminate to indicate that the unit is in record mode.

If no inputs are routed to tracks, recording cannot take place. Make certain that at least one record track is assigned for recording.

While recording, the power, ff, rew, input, tone, and drive keys are disabled. Stop recording by pressing and holding the STOP key. The STOP key must be held for 150 ms or greater to end recording. Although you can enter the setup menu during recording, menu items that affect recording are lined out in the menu list.

During recording, subsequent presses of the record key can perform one of three setup-menu-selected actions:

• no action,

• new cue - cue markers are set within the ﬁ le being written,

• new ﬁ le - a new ﬁ le is started with each press of the record key, the take counter is increased by one.

When removing the CF from the 744T, always observe the amber CF activity LED. If it is lit, wait until it goes out before removing the CF. If you remove the CF while the LED is lit, the ﬁ le will be corrupted and there is a possibility of FAT corruption as well.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 37

Pre-Record Buffer

To prevent missing record cues or up-cutting takes the 744T has an available pre-record (or pre-roll) buffer. When active, pre-record begins recording at a set number of seconds PRECEEDING the record key being pressed. The amount of pre-record is sample-rate-dependent. At 48 kHz, ten seconds of buffered audio is available. At a 96 kHz sampling rate ﬁ ve seconds is available. At very high rates (192 kHz) two seconds of pre-record buffer is available.

Failure During Recording

In the event of a storage media failure the speciﬁ c error will be indicated on the front panel and by a tone in headphones. Possible causes of media failure include a hard drive in severe motion which results in recording errors, a the Compact Flash card ﬁ lling up while recording, or an external DVDRAM that can’t keep up with the chosen data rate. If more than one drive is selected for recording the remaining drives will continue recording without failure.

Front Panel Lockout

See Panel Lock on page 8 to engage panel lock during recording.

Display Options

For additional visual indication that recording is in process the large display can menu-selected for white numbers on black number (reversed) or the display can be set to ﬂ ash during recording.

reversed numbers indicating that recording is in process

Playback

The 744T has high-resolution playback circuitry and is appropriate for any reference audio application. Any ﬁ le recorded by the 744T can be played back, including MP3 ﬁ le playback. In addition, ﬁ les copied to the storage medium from a computer can be played back. This is useful when using the 744T as a high-resolution playback device.

The 744T plays back the last recorded audio ﬁ le unless another ﬁ le is selected. There are two ways to select another ﬁ le for playback. To select another ﬁ le in the current record directory, push either the FastForward or reverse key to put the 744T in to play-stop mode. The ﬁ lename display will begin ﬂ ashing and the FastForward and Reverse keys are used to step through ﬁ les available in the current record directory. To select a ﬁ le in an alternate directory, press the HDD key to enter the media directories. Navigate to the appropriate directory. Select the ﬁ le that to play back with the Rotary Switch and press play.

If the stop key is pressed while playing ﬁ les from an alternate directory, the 744T will revert to the current daily directory.

Page 38

744T User Guide and Technical Information

AutoPlay

The 744T can be set to play back all valid audio ﬁ les in a directory. Files will play back in their order in the directory. Autoplay can be set with the following options:

• Disabled – auto playback is off

• Play all – all ﬁ les in the directory will play, then stop when all ﬁ les have been played

• Repeat one – the selected ﬁ le will play back continuously until stopped by the user

• Repeat all – all ﬁ les in the directory will play in succession, then repeat until stopped by the user

Audio File Formats

The 744T records audio to the industry-standard Broadcast Wave ﬁ le format, either monophonic or polyphonic. All ﬁ les created by the 744T receive the .WAV ﬁ le extension. The 744T will read ﬁ les with the .BWF extension.

.WAV

The 744T writes AES-31 BWF-formatted ﬁ les. The audio ﬁ les created by the 744T place additional information in the ﬁ le header, called the Broadcast Audio Extension data chunk. Software that does not recognize this additional broadcast wave data chunk will simply ignore this added information. Among the values recorded are:

• time code stamp

• time code frame rate

• date and time of the original recording

• bit depth

• sampling rate

• originating machine serial number

If time code is turned off, metadata will still be written. Files will only be written with a .WAV extension.

iXML

The 744T includes iXML (revision 1.5) data in addition to the broadcast wave extension data. For iXML-aware software applications this data is available. For applications that don’t recognize iXML, this information is ignored.

Notes

iXML supports notes ﬁ elds. From the File Viewer select OPTIONS, then Notes.

Using an external keyboard via the CL-1 Remote Control and Keyboard Interface the entry of notes is much quicker than using the Rotary Switch.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 39

MP3 Files

The 744T can play back MPEG-1 Layer III (MP3) audio ﬁ les. The 744T has a high-quality MP3 decoder that can play back both ﬁ xed-rate and variable bit rate MP3 ﬁ les with 44.1 or 48 kHz sampling rates. Additionally, the 744T can play back MPEG-1 Layer II audio ﬁ les with an .MP2 extension. The Absolute Time (A-Time) of the ﬁ le will appear in the ﬁ le viewer and during playback on the front panel. MP3 playback is very useful on-set to play a personal MP3 audio library during downtime.

File Naming / Numbering

Files generated by the 744T are named using a syntax made up of four parts: scene name/number, take number, mono track designator (if mono ﬁ le is selected), and ﬁ le extension.

S001T01_1.WAV

scene number

take number

mono file designator

extension

Scene Name/Numbering

Scene names are selected for use from a scene name list. This list is accessed from the setup menu. Any number of scene name lists can be generated and these can be made up of any number of scene names. The advantage of scene name lists is that scene names can be built before production so that

Scene names are made with alphanumeric characters, including “ _” and “-” and can be any length between zero (0) and nine (9) characters in length. Scene numbers are helpful to match audio with the corresponding scene in a production. Scene names can also be used to identify other items, including recording date, artist name, or any other descriptor as required.

Scene names are user-selected from the setup menu and do not change until changed by the user.

To change scene numbers:

1. Enter the user menu and navigate to the Scene Name/Number option.

2. Use the REW (<<) and FF (>>) soft keys to move among characters. Use the PLAY key to delete charac-

ters. Characters are entered from left to right and deleted from right to left.

3. Use the Rotary Switch or the soft key arrows to choose characters. Press the Controller or hit the fast-

forward key to save the character and move to the next position.

4. To save the scene name, press the soft check key or the Controller without selecting a character. After

the ninth character is entered, the scene name is automatically saved.

Page 40

744T User Guide and Technical Information

If all characters are removed, no scene name will be written to ﬁ les.If Scene Folder is selected for ﬁ le management, all takes will be placed in the root of the drive.

Take Numbers

Take numbers are integers between 01 and 32000, with or without preceding zeros, which increase by one each time a new ﬁ le is recorded. Take numbers can be set with or without a take separator, such as the character “-” or “T”. Take numbers can be overridden and a new take number can be set in the setup menu. If the 744T detects a ﬁ le with a duplicate name in the destination folder, a letter sufﬁ x, starting with “A” is added to the ﬁ le name, before the extension. Note that take number han- dling can be selected to reset if set in the setup menu (see File Management and Copying).

To change take numbers:

1. Enter the user menu and navigate to the Take Name/Number option.

2. Use the REW (<) and FF (>) soft keys to move among decimal places and to jump to the single alpha-

numeric take spacer character. Use the PLAY key to reset the take number to 1. Characters are entered from left to right and deleted from right to left.

3. The Rotary Switch or the soft keys are used to choose characters/numbers. Press the Controller or hit

the soft check key to save the character and move to the next position.

From the user menu the action for take resetting is controlled from the following options:

• Never – take numbers do not reset

• When scene is changed – take resets when scene name is changed

• When daily folder is changed – takes reset on new day

• Either scene or daily– takes reset on either change

Mono Track Name Designators

When recording monophonic Broadcast WAV ﬁ les each track is recorded in a separate data ﬁ le. To identify each track, each ﬁ le is identiﬁ ed by an underscore and track number sufﬁ x. The ﬁ le of the ﬁ rst track recorded has “_1” appended to it. The ﬁ le name sufﬁ x, _1, _2, _3, and _4 always corresponds to tracks A, B, C, and D. For instance, if track D is the only track recorded, it’s ﬁ le name sufﬁ x will be _4.

Track Naming

Each track in a ﬁ le, whether monophic or polyphonic ﬁ les can be named with a unique track name. These names appear in the Broadcast Wave Extension (BEXT) data as well as in the iXML data. Track names are entered from the Setup Menu.

Duplicate File Names

When the 744T detects that a duplicate ﬁ le name is going to be generated in any speciﬁ c folder, the 744T changes the ﬁ le name by adding of a letter sufﬁ x before the extension. For instance, if take

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 41

numbers are reset but ﬁ les are recorded to the same directory as previous ﬁ les, a sufﬁ x “A” is added to the ﬁ le. If additional duplicate ﬁ les are generated the letter sufﬁ x increments, to B, C, etc.

File Management

The 744T, like a computer, saves audio recordings to a ﬁ le system containing ﬁ les and folders. The 744T formats its internal hard drive, Compact Flash medium, and attached external drives as single drives named “744T INDD”, “744T CF ”, and “744T E X THDD, ” respectively. All ﬁ les generated by the 744T can be saved to the Root Folder, a Daily Folder, or a Scene Folder.

Folder Actions

Files generated by the 744T are placed in the root 744T folder, a “daily” sub-folder, or a Scene subfolder. File folder action is set in the Setup menu under the selection FILE: FOLDER OPTIONS. Folder choices include TOP-LEVEL, MID-LEVEL, and BOTTOM LEVEL FOLDERS.

• Top-Level folder - is a root-level folder and can be set with a user-selected name. The Top- Level folder can also be de-activated by selecting <NONE> from the Setup Menu. If the TopLevel folder is not used then the next lower-level folder will reside at the drive’s root. If the TOP-LEVEL folder is active then the MID-LEVEL and BOTTOM-LEVEL folders will be its subfolders.

• Mid-Level /Daily folder - can be selected as a <DAILY> folder, a folder with a user-selected name, or not used. If a TOP-LEVEL folder is in use, the MID-LEVEL folder will be a sub-folder of the TOP-LEVEL folder. If no TOP-LEVEL folder is used the MID-LEVEL folder will reside at the drive’s root. If set to <DAILY> a new folder will be created daily. When recording past midnight the 744T will prompt to make to a new daily folder.

• Bottom-Level /Scene Folders - can be selected as a <SCENE> folder which will use the name generated from REC: SCENE NAME/NUMBER Setup Menu, as a user-selected name, or not used at all. If no upper-level folder is in use, the BOTTOM-LEVEL folder will reside at drive’s root. If the MID-LEVEL and/or TOP-LEVEL are in use the BOTTOM-LEVEL folder will be a sub-folder.

Example: If a daily Folder is desired, set the TOP-LEVEL to <NONE>, the MID-LEVEL folder to

<DAILY>, and the BOTTOM-LEVEL to <NONE>. This will generate a Daily Folder in the root directory with it’s ﬁ les directly inside the folder.

A hierarchical view of ﬁ les generated by the 744T is below.

744T

 FALSETAKES  SOUNDDEV  TRASH  TOP-LEVEL

Example:

.. .. NAMET01.WAV .. NAMET02.WAV

 MID-LEVEL

 BOTTOM-LEVEL

744T

 FALSETAKES  SOUNDDEV  TRASH  PROJECT

 07Y01M15

 SCENE

The FALSETAKES, SOUNDDEV, and TRASH folders are automatically generated. SOUNDDEV is not viewable from the 744T File Viewer.

A TOP-LEVEL folder sits in the root directory. This folder can be negated by choosing <None> in the menu File: Folder Options.

A MID-LEVEL folder can be used as a sub-folder. This folder can be selected to be a <Daily> folder in the menu File: Folder Options.

A BOTTOM-LEVEL folder could also be used as a sub-folder. This folder can be selected to be a <Scene> folder in the menu File: Folder Options.

This is a TOP-LEVEL folder named PROJECT activated in the menu File: Folder Options.

This is a MID-LEVEL folder set to <Daily> from the menu File: Folder Options.

This is a BOTTOM-LEVEL folder set to <Scene> from the menu File: Folder Options.

These two files are title NAME in the menu Rec: Scene Name/Number.

Page 42

744T User Guide and Technical Information

File Viewer Navigation

Moving from ﬁ le to ﬁ le is similar to navigating among ﬁ les on a computer.

1. Enter the ﬁ le menu by either selecting FILE:VIEW FILES ﬁ le in the setup menu or by pressing the front

panel HDD key. By default the folder where the last recorded ﬁ le or played ﬁ le is located with be the folder ﬁ rst opened. The 744T knows this ﬁ le name by reading a .txt ﬁ le written to each time the unit records or plays audio.

2. To move up the hierarchy scroll up to the top of the menu to “\..” .

3. Press enter or push the Rotary Switch to go up one menu level.

4. From the root menu, selecting \.. opens the media select screen.

5. Continuing up the ﬁ le hierarchy the media menu is viewable. Select either internal hard drive or CF (if

installed) and drill down through the directories of that medium to the ﬁ le required.

Larger ﬁ les and ﬁ les from Compact Flash take added time to show details; this is normal.

File Viewer Screen

The ﬁ le viewer screen contains information about the individual audio ﬁ les contained in the directory. The left side of the display shows ﬁ les and folders. The top line displays the directory path in the form of DRIVE\FOLDER NAME. File names are listed in the order they were recorded.

File types not recognized do not show up in the ﬁ le viewer, although all folders are viewable.

File detail is shown at the right side of the display. The center divider points to the ﬁ le selected for information viewing. Information shown includes:

• ﬁ le creation date, ﬁ le ﬂ ag (archive) bit status, checked means the ﬁ le archive bit is set, clear means the ﬁ le archive bit is cleared

• ﬁ le creation time, ﬁ le size

• number of tracks, bit depth, sampling rate

• beginning (BEG) time code stamp of the ﬁ le for BWF ﬁ les or the length (LEN) of MP3 ﬁ les

• There is additional information available for BWF ﬁ les. Pushing the Rotary Switch will cycle through the beginning time code stamp (BEG), ﬁ le length (LEN) and user bits (USR).

The ﬁ le viewer always exits to the main screen whether entered from the menus or the HDD key.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 43

File Time and Date

Similar to a computer ﬁ le system, all ﬁ les recorded by the 744T are stamped with the time and date of ﬁ le generation. To ensure that accurate time-of-day and ﬁ le generation dates are written for each ﬁ le, make certain that the time-of-day clock and calendar are accurately set.

File time and date and time code are unrelated.

1. Enter the TIME/DATE: SET menu.

2. Set the current time and date using the navigation below.

soft keys increment and decrement time and date, controller can be turned, as well

Once set, the time and date clock will be kept while the removable rechargeable battery is attached. If it is removed the internal AA NiMH time code battery maintains the time-of-day and date for 8 days, or more.

advances to the next selection

returns to the previous setting

File Size Maximum

The 744T storage volumes (internal hard drive, CF, external drives) are formatted and write to FAT32 ﬁ le structures. This structure allows these drives to directly mount in a wide variety of computer platforms, including Windows and Mac OS. Using the FireWire connection both internal drives (internal hard drive and CF) appear as external FAT32 volumes.

Windows XP has a limitation on FAT32 drive formatting; XP can format a FAT32 volume to a maximum of 32 GB, however it can read FAT32 volumes as large as 2 TB.

FAT32 has a maximum individual ﬁ le size limitation of 4 GB. While it is possible to have thousands of ﬁ les on the 744T storage medium(s), the largest any single ﬁ le may be is 4 GB. The 744T automatically splits an audio ﬁ le before the 1.8 GB size is reached and begins writing to a new ﬁ le. When joined in an editing program, these ﬁ les match seamlessly with no samples lost. The 744T has menuselectable ﬁ le size maximums of 650 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB. The 650 MB size allows the user to break an audio program into CD-R sized ﬁ les for backup to inexpensive CD-R medium. There is also a selection of sizes to ensure that ﬁ les recorded will ﬁ t onto common Compact Flash card capacities.

Flag (Archive) Bits

Flag, or archive bits are used by the 744T to identify ﬁ les for transferring between hard drive and CF within the 744T. By default, all recorded ﬁ les have their ﬂ ag bit set.

Pressing the HDD key to access the ﬁ le directory. Chose a ﬁ le that you wish to delete, ﬂ ag, or un-ﬂ ag. Press the Fast Forward key to select OPTIONS. In the OPTIONS menu you can select

DELETE, SET COPY FLAG, CLEAR COPY FLAG.

Page 44

744T User Guide and Technical Information

All ﬁ les recorded by the 744T have their archive bit set to on.

The 744T can be set to clear the ﬂ ag bit of copied ﬁ les automatically. When enabled in the FILE: COPY FLAG RESET menu, all ﬁ les copied internally by the 744T, but not via FireWire, will have their ﬂ ag bits cleared on the original ﬁ le.

File Copying Among Available Drives

Audio ﬁ les are easily transferred between the 744T’s internal hard drive, CF, and external drives. File transfer is initiated from the setup menu option FILE:COPY FILE

The File Copy menu has numerous options for each media type:

Copy All [Media] > [Media]:

Copies all ﬁ les from one media to the other.

Last 24Hr [Media] > [Media]:

Copies ﬁ les created in the last 24 hours between media.

Last 48Hr [Media] > [Media]:

Copies ﬁ les created in the last 48 hours between media.

Flagged [Media] > [Media]:

Copies all ﬁ les with their ﬂ ag (archive) bit set between media.

Once ﬁ le copying has begun, the 744T searches the source media for the selected ﬁ les. The 744T will then search the destination drive looking for duplicate ﬁ le names. The LCD will report the number of ﬁ les found, the number of duplicates found, and the number of ﬁ les to be copied and prompt to continue.

Pressing the soft key to Enter or the Rotary Switch begins the copy process. The LCD will report the progress of the copying operation. When ﬁ le copying is completed, the 744T will report the number of ﬁ les successfully copied.

Error Conditions:

If a ﬁ le is to large for the destination storage medium, the 744T will prompt to skip it or cancel copying. If an error occurs during ﬁ le copying, the 744T will prompt to cancel the transfer. When the destination storage medium is full, the 744T will report the error and end the transfer.

File Deletion

Any ﬁ le or folder on either internal hard drive or Compact Flash can be deleted. Permanently deleting ﬁ les is a two-step process. Similar to Mac OS and Windows operating systems, the 7-Series uses a “trash” folder to temporarily hold ﬁ les which have been deleted. To send a ﬁ le to the trash, perform the following:

1. Press the HDD button to enter the File Viewer.

2. Navigate to the ﬁ le to be deleted.

3. Press the soft key marked OPTIONS.

4. Select DELETE.

5. You will be prompted to verify ﬁ le deletion.

The ﬁ le has now been moved to the trash folder and will no longer appear in the ﬁ le listing. It will, however, appear in the trash folder. Files sent the trash folder can be viewed and played.

If a ﬁ le or folder has accidentally been sent to the trash the drive can be mounted to a computer via FireWire and moved back to its original folder. Files and folders moved to the trash cannot be removed from the trash from the 7-Series recorder.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 45

False Take Control

To identify a take as a false take, perform the following:

1. Press stop to end recording.

2. Hold down the stop key and press rewind to be prompted to delete the most recent take.

3. Press the soft check box to delete the take.

Files that have been deleted as false takes are moved to the FALSETAKES folder. This folder sits in the drive root. For 722 and 744T users recording to internal hard drive and Compact Flash, ﬁ les from both media will be moved to each media’s FALSETAKES folder.

False takes will remain on the drive until the FALSETAKES folder is deleted (see Emptying the Trash and False Take Folders above).

Emptying the Trash and False Take Folders

Files that have been moved to the trash and false take folders (see below) can be permanently deleted from the recorder. Each drive has its own Trash and False Take folders and they are permantly deleted independently.

Once the trash and False Take folders have been emptied, any ﬁ les or folders they contain are permanently deleted and cannot be recovered.

Take Number Incrementing

To advance to a higher take number hold the STOP button and press FastForward. The ﬁ le name to be recorded is indicated above the ﬁ le time.

Indicates active take

Indicates next upcoming take

Take List

The take list shows a sequential listing of the last 200 recorded ﬁ le, without regard to what folder they have been recorded in. The ﬁ rst ﬁ le in the list, marked with an * indicates the ﬁ le name of the next recorded take. Subsequent takes are listed in the order of recording from the 7-Series. Only ﬁ les recorded on the unit will appear in the take list, unlike in the File Viewer, where all valid sound ﬁ les are shown.

Page 46

744T User Guide and Technical Information

From the take list several controls are available. Take Number Incrementing is available, as well as False Take deletion. Soft keys move among take numbers.

Circle Take

Take names can be altered to include the “@” symbol preceding the ﬁ le name. This can be used to highlight a take as a “circle take”. Circle takes are often used to identify good takes for transferring.

To identify a circle take, perform the following steps:

1. Press stop to end recording.

2. Hold the stop button down, then press PLAY to enter the Take List

3. Scroll among ﬁ les to highlight the ﬁ le as a circle take.

4. Hit the circle take soft button (play).

The ﬁ le name will be altered. To remove the circle take indicate hightlight the circled ﬁ le as you would to circle it and select “uncircle”.

Storage Medium – Internal Hard Drive

The 744T’s internal hard disk drive is the 744T’s primary storage medium. The large capacity and fast data read/write speeds of hard drives are a perfect choice when long form, high data rate recording is performed. hard disk drives offer a good balance of speed, reliability, noise performance, and current draw.

Formatting

The drive installed in the 744T is formatted at the factory as a single-partition FAT32 volume. If a drive with multiple partitions is installed, the 744T will only “see” and address the primary partion.

For best operation periodic re-formatting of the 744T hard drive is recommended. Formatting the hard drive rebuilds the FAT (ﬁ le allocation table) and erases all audio and data ﬁ les present on the medium. Formatting the drive prevents fragmentation and reduces the likelihood of directory corruption.

Be certain that all ﬁ les on the 744T drive have been backed up to another media before formatting. Once formatted, all data on the drive will be erased.

To format the 744T internal hard drive:

1. Ensure that all data on the hard drive has been copied or is no longer needed.

2. Press the Menu key.

3. Use the Rotary Switch to scroll to IN HDD: (ERASE).

4. Press the Rotary Switch button to begin formatting.

5. Press the Rotary Switch once more to conﬁ rm the operation.

Formatting the 744T hard drive can take up to 20 seconds. When foratting is completed, the 744T will generate a fresh menu hierarchy, including the daily folder if selected.

Media Repair Utility

Included in the software for the 744T is a basic media repair utility. The utility is similar to Windows “scandisk” with added capabilities speciﬁ c to WAV/BWF ﬁ les. This utility can be run after improper

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 47

media removal, or in the event of a write error during recording. When selected from the setup menu, the repair utility will scan the drive for problems, report the number of errors and correct the errors. Recovered ﬁ les are placed in a RECOVERED directory that is generated in the SOUNDDEV folder. Speciﬁ c operations include:

1. Boot Record Check – the volume’s boot record is checked for proper information. Any out-of-range

values are forced to the nearest valid value.

2. FAT Chain Scan – each ﬁ le on the drive is allocated space by linking together data clusters into a

“chain” of clusters. Each chain is speciﬁ ed in the drive’s ﬁ le allocation table (FAT). In this stage of media repair, each and every FAT chain is scanned and checked for validity. Broken chains, lost chains, crosslinked chains, and chains with no end, are ﬁ xed or truncated.

3. Lost Chain Recovery – FAT chains that are not tied to a ﬁ le are considered “lost.” These chains rep-

resent used space on the drive, and may have been separated from their ﬁ le due to a drive error or improper shut-down. These chains are converted to ﬁ les and placed in the “RECOVERED” folder.

4. RIFF (WAV/BWF) ﬁ le check – All RIFF ﬁ les are checked for proper format. RIFF ﬁ les are composed of

“chunks” of data, where each chunk has a type and a size. If the size does not match the actual amount of data for the particular chunk (which might be the case if the ﬁ le was not closed properly), the size is adjusted.

At the end of the repair operation, the number of errors found and ﬁ xed is displayed. In some cases, errors can not be ﬁ xed automatically.

Also, it’s possible that the drive is corrupted in such a way the media repair utility is unable to continue. In this case the operation will abort and the user is prompted to check the hardware and try again.

Drive Type

The 744T ships with a 2.5-inch ATA-5 interface, 5400 RPM hard drive. Sound Devices has chosen the speciﬁ c mechanism for maximum vibration and shock resistance. Most 2.5 inch drives conforming to the ATA speciﬁ cation can be substituted for the factory hard drive. When choosing a substitute hard drive, note that higher RPM hard drives draw more current, reducing battery run time. Higher speed drives may be used with the 744T, however they will not signiﬁ cantly improve performance. They will slightly increase transfer throughput with the penalty of increased current draw and reduced battery run time. The 744T can address drives with capacities up to 2 TB.

Drive Replacement

The internal hard drive can be removed and replaced if the device fails or if a different capacity drive is needed. The internal hard drive is not intended to be a swappable, deliverable medium. Its multipin connector is not rated for repeated insertion and removal cycles and may be prone to breakage with repeated cycling.

In typical service conditions Sound Devices recommends hard drive replacement once every three years.

The hard drive is mounted to the bottom-side of the recorder’s chassis and is screwdriver accessible. The drive is “suspended” in the unit with a shock isolating membrane and is attached to the main circuit board via a “ﬂ ex board”. Since the unit’s high-density circuitry and tight construction require speciﬁ c electronics knowledge, Sound Devices strongly recommends drive replacement be performed by a qualiﬁ ed technician using proper ESD precautions. Drive replacement done by a qualiﬁ ed technician has no warranty implications.

Page 48

744T User Guide and Technical Information

The internal hard drive is not intended as a swappable exchange medium. The header connector is not rated for repeated removal and insertion. Only qualiﬁ ed service technician using proper ESD precautions should perform drive replacement.

744T with bottom panel removed showing hard drive mounting location

Drive Failure

Hard disk drives are mechanical devices and are susceptible to damage from physical shock. One type of physical shock, called operating shock, occurs when the disk is in operation. During operation, the drive head is typically over the drive platters reading and writing data. When a physical shock to the drive occurs during operation, the head and the platters can come into contact causing both components to be damaged. The second type of shock, called non-operating shock, occurs when the head is in the unloaded position, or not positioned over the platters. When a physical shock occurs in the non-operating state, the head can contact the ramp it is positioned over and damage the ability of the head to read and write data to the hard disk drive. All devices with hard drives are subject to damage from operating and non-operating shock.

The mechanical construction of the 744T is designed to minimize the transmission of shock to the hard drive. The drive is isolated from the chassis using special shock-reducing closed-cell foam. This material increases the amount of shock the hard drive can withstand. Additional protection can be achieved by operating the unit in a carry case.

If the recorder is used in applications subject to extreme motion, Sound Devices recommends recording to Compact Flash only. The hard drive will park its write heads to reduce the chance of failure.

With all electrical devices, the higher the ambient temperature the shorter the device’s operational life. Therefore, take care to observe the speciﬁ ed temperature rating.

There is also a risk from sudden temperature changes, which can create condensation inside the drive. This condensation can lead to the drive’s read/write heads adhering to the disk surfaces which will, in turn, stop the hard disk from rotating. Condensation tends to occur when the temperature inside the drive suddenly falls, for example, just after the unit is moved to a new location, or after operation is stopped in a cold environment.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 49

Sudden changes in temperature or air pressure can cause disk surface material to evaporate, which can also cause the head to adhere to the disk surface. This can happen when a hard disk drive is left unused for a long period of time.

Storage Medium – Removable Compact Flash

Compact Flash (CF) is a practical, portable storage medium for audio recording. Its speed, capacity, and price continue to evolve to the beneﬁ t of portable recorders. The 744T can write to and read from CF cards as either its sole storage medium or simultaneously with the internal hard drive.

When to Use CF

The key beneﬁ ts of Compact Flash include:

• wider temperature range capability than hard drives

• greatly increased shock immunity versus hard drives

• convenient, portable, removable media

• ubiquitous card readers and transfer tools

Formatting

Upon insertion of an unformatted (or non-FAT32 formatted) CF card, the 744T will prompt the user to format the card. If the card is formatted as a FAT32 volume the card will be ready to be selected as a storage medium. To reformat the CF medium, follow the same procedure as formatting the hard drive, substituting the CF menu selection for the hard drive.

The 744T can format and use Compact Flash cards with capacities of 64 MB and greater.

Formatting the CF rebuilds the FAT (ﬁ le allocation table) and erases all audio and data ﬁ les present on the card. While some PC and Mac utilities can recover ﬁ les immediately after formatting a CF card, consider that the ﬁ les have been permanently erased. FAT32 volumes generated by the 744T may not be compatible with some consumer electronic devices, including entry-level digital cameras.

After recording to CF has stopped, it may take several seconds for the 744T to ﬁ nish “housekeeping” on CF. When preparing to remove the CF, always observe the amber CF activity LED. If it is lit, wait until it is off before removing the card. If the CF is removed while the LED is lit, at the very least the ﬁ le will be corrupted and there is a possibility of FAT corruption as well.

Speed Testing

CF cards varied widely in their read and write throughput. Later generation “24x” and greater CF cards can reliably read and write multi-track, high sample rate audio. The 744T includes a drive speed test to measure the throughput speed of CF medium.

Few CF cards can sustain write speeds for reliable 192 kHz recording. Sound Devices strongly recommends against recording to Compact Flash if 192 kHz sampling rates are required.

Page 50

744T User Guide and Technical Information

CF Media Repair

The same media repair utilities available on the internal hard drive are also available for CF medium.

Qualiﬁ ed CF Cards

Sound Devices does not speciﬁ cally “qualify” CompactFlash cards for use in the recorder. From our tests of numerous cards—including medium from Lexar Media, SanDisk, and Kingston Technology—cards in capacities from 128 MB and above will successfully operate in the 744T. The unit will support up to 2 TB of data. Small capacity cards may not format as FAT32 and may not be useable. Use the CF transfer speed test to verify that an installed card can support the needed read/write speed.

Storage Medium – External FireWire Drives

The FireWire port on the 744T can function in either “host” mode or “drive” mode (see File Transfer

Using FireWire for additional information on drive mode). In host mode an attached FireWire storage

volume such as a hard drive or DVD-RAM can be used to record and play back audio ﬁ les. Because the 7-Series can write to all available mediums simultaneously the abilility to write to an external drive reduces the need for post-record copying of sound ﬁ les.

External hard drive is attached and is selected as the recording destination

External FireWire drives require 2.0-ready 744T hardware. Only recorders speciﬁ cally labeled 2.0 ready are able to connect to external FireWire drives as an available storage medium.

When to Use External FireWire Drives

The key beneﬁ ts of recording to external drives include:

• the choice of drive types include DVD-RAM optical drive or hard drive

• near limitless recording capacity when a large volume external hard drive is attached (up to 2 TB)

• fast, no-waiting simultaneous record option

• post-record copying to quickly back up internal hard drive or CF medium

Formatting

Identical to both the internal hard drive and Compact Flash, attached FireWire drives are formatted as FAT32 volumes. Upon connection to an unformatted (or non-FAT32 formatted) external drive, the 744T will prompt the user to format the drive. If the drive is already formatted as a FAT32 volume the drive will be ready to be selected as a storage medium. The front panel drive LED will illuminate to show which drives are available for recording. To reformat an attached drive, follow the same procedure as formatting the internal hard drive, substituting the external drive menu selection for the internal hard drive.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 51

After recording to an external drive has stopped, it may take several seconds for the 744T to ﬁ nish “housekeeping” on drive. This is especially true when recording to DVD-RAM disks, which generally have slower throughput than hard drives. When preparing to disconnect a FireWire drive, always observe the amber activity LED labeled EXT. If it is lit, wait until it is off before disconnecting the drive. If the drive is disconnected while the LED is on, there is a high likelihood that the ﬁ le being written will be unusable and there is a possibility of FAT corruption on the drive.

FireWire Bus Powering

The six-pin FireWire port on the 744T provides power for bus-powered FireWire drives. The following conditions should be observed when connecting to bus-powered drives.

• Bus powering a drive requires external DC powering of the 744T. The 744T cannot operate buspowered drives from an attached Li-ion battery.

• When recording in realtime to bus-powered FireWire drives the XL-1394 FireWire Power Filter is recommended. This ﬁ lter network isolates the electrical noise in bus-powered drives from the 744T.

• While hot-swapping FireWire cables is possible it is recommended to attach bus-powered drives with the recorder turned off.

Qualiﬁ ed Drives

External FireWire storage volumes that can be formatted and addressed as FAT32 can be used with the 744T. These include:

• external hard drives, bus-powered or mains powered. Drives as large as 2 TB can be addressed,

• FireWire Compact Flash card readers,

• DVD-RAM drives.

FireWire drives use a variety of chipsets to perform conversion from the drive’s native format (i.e. IDE) to FireWire. Sound Devices has tested and qualiﬁ ed enclosures and card readers which use the Oxford 911 and 922 chipsets. Other chipsets may operate, but Sound Devices does not ofﬁ cially support them. To check for compatibility with the 744T attach a FireWire drive and run the media speed test selected from the User Menu. This will write, then read a ﬁ le to the drive. If the drive can perform this test then it can be used to record audio.

DVD-RAM Drives

DVD-RAM drives are essentially optical hard drives. Revision 2.00 ﬁ rmware supports recording to and playing back from DVD-RAM drives when formatted as FAT32 volumes.

When recording to DVD-RAM drives in realtime it is important to note the following:

1. Keep sampling rates at or below 48048.

2. Record to polyphonic ﬁ le formats.

3. Use DVD-RAM drive mechanisms and media that support 3X recording speeds.

Post-record copying from internal hard drive (or CF) to external drives is recommended with material recorded at high sampling rates.

Page 52

744T User Guide and Technical Information

File Transfer Using FireWire

FireWire port

FireWire cable - 744T to computer

The 744T’s FireWire (IEEE-1394) port makes transfering of recorded ﬁ les to a computer quick and easy. When connected to a computer, the internal hard drive and Compact Flash card of the 744T will mount to a Mac OS X or Windows computer as a local, removable mass storage volume. Using Mac Finder, Windows Explorer, or any other ﬁ le utility, ﬁ les can be copied, read, and deleted directly to and from the 744T hard drive.

It is best practice to copy original audio ﬁ les from the original recorded medium to another volume before editing.

To mount the 744T to a computer via FireWire:

1. Stop all playback and recording activity.

2. Interconnect the 744T to a FireWire-enabled computer using an appropriate FireWire cable. No drivers

are required if the computer meets the requirements listed in Speciﬁ cations.

3. The 744T will now show COMPUTER CONNECTION on the LCD. When connected, all audio function-

ality of the 744T is defeated.

4. Navigate the drives on the computer and copy all needed audio to local storage.

To avoid possible directory corruption on the 744T hard drive, always properly dismount the unit from the operating system. On Mac platforms, drag the drive icons to the trash. On Windows platforms, use the “Disconnect External Media” icon in the system tray.

To disconnect the 744T from FireWire:

1. Make certain that any software applications that reference the 744T drive are closed and that all ﬁ le

copy functions to and from the 744T have completed.

2. In Mac OS X highlight the drive icon on the desktop and select -e to eject the volume. Alternatively,

drag the drive icon to the trash in the dock.

2. In Windows, right-click the drive icon and select “eject.”

3. The cable between the computer and 744T can now be disconnected. If a future connection is going to

be made the cable can be left connected.

If the 744T is disconnected from the computer via an eject command and the FireWire cable is still physically connected between the computer and recorder, the data connection can be made by enter-

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 53

ing the setup menu select FIREWIRE: CONNECTION. Alternatively, press the STOP key and HDD key together to begin a FireWire connection.

Different than when dismounting the 744T in Windows, with Mac OS, if a 744T is disconnected from FireWire by pulling the FireWire cable without ﬁ rst dismounting the drive the following error will appear.

While it is typically safe to disregard this message and hit the soft key X, it is best practice to properly remove the 744T from a Macintosh by dragging the volume to the trash or by using the keyboard shortcut -e.

Powering

The 744T is powered from either removable, Li-ion rechargeable batteries or external DC power. The included, removable 7.2 V Li-ion cell can be used as a primary or backup power source. The 744T automatically chooses the power source based on the voltage level of the external power supply. If it falls below a factory-set threshold, the unit will transition to Li-ion power. The transition between external and removable battery powering is seamless and has no affect on recording or playback operation.

During typical operation the 744T will run for approximately four hours from the included 4800 mAh Li-ion battery.

Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery

The 744T is compatible with Sony-mount L- or M-type Li-ion rechargeable batteries. Numerous power capacities are available in these battery types, ranging from 1000 mAh to 7000 mAh. The 744T’s mount accommodates unlimited battery depth. Larger amp-hour cells provide more run time.

When powered by the removable Li-ion battery the LCD displays the battery voltage. The nominal operating voltage for Li-ion batteries is 7.2 V, with operating voltages ranging between 6.5–8.5 V. When the battery drops to 6.5 V, the LCD voltage display and the power LED begin ﬂ ashing to warn that the battery is nearly depleted. When the voltage reaches 6.3 volts the 744T will power down— any recordings in-process will automatically be closed (stopped).

External Powering and Battery Charging

The 744T can be powered externally from 10–18 VDC (2 amp minimum). External DC fully powers the unit and charges an attached Li-ion battery simultaneously using the 744T’s onboard Li-ion charger. The charger circuit operates whenever the unit is powered on and optionally when the unit is off, depending on the external power wiring (see below).

DC input uses a 4-pin Hirose connector (Part # HR10-7P4P). There are two connection options available:

Page 54

744T User Guide and Technical Information

External DC Input Wiring

pin-2 to negative (–) pin-3 to positive (+)

pin-1 to negative (–) pin-4 to positive (+)

Regardless of whether pins-1 and -4 or pins-2 and -3 are used, the unit will always charge the Li-ion battery when the unit is powered on.

Operation

operates the on-board Li-ion charger when the unit is both turned on and off. Use when plugged into AC power

operates the on-board Li-ion charger only when the unit is turned on—there is no external current draw when powered off. Use when connecting to an external battery pack

Pin-1 and pin-2 of the external DC input are at the same ground potential as chassis and signal ground.

The voltage level of the source powering the unit is shows on the LCD ( ). When the 744T senses a low voltage condition from an external DC source the power LED and battery voltage display ﬂ ashes, to alert the user. When the external DC reaches 9 volts, the 744T will automatically switch over to the removable battery. If no battery is installed the unit will shut down.

The included AC-to-DC “wall-wart” power supply operates the unit and charges the removable batteries simultaneously. Pins-3 and -4 are wired to (+) and pins-1 and -2 are wired to (–).

When power is applied, the charging circuit evaluates the battery condition and supplies charging current, if necessary. When charging, the amber charge LED will ﬂ ash. Once the battery is fully charged, the charger will turn off and the amber charge LED will light solid, indicating a full charge. Large capacity cells increase the charge time.

Charge LED Activity Description of Activity

Off Charger disabled

On Completed charge / battery fully charged

1 blink Charger enabled / battery is charging

2 blinks No Li-ion battery attached

3 blinks High/low internal temperature state

4 blinks Battery level error code (>15 min. in slow mode)

5 blinks Error - charger has been operating for over 8 hours without full charge

If the charge LED shows anything but a successful charge, the Li-ion battery may require replacement.

Time Code Clock Battery

The 744T has an internal NiMH LR6 (AA) battery to power to the time code generator circuitry and time-of-day clock. This battery is charged simultaneously with the Li-ion battery. Additionally, the AA is charged from the Li-ion battery when the unit is powered on.

With a fully charged AA battery, accurate time code is held for two hours after power down. The 744T can be powered down and the removeable battery can be removed and replaced without worry of time code jumps or inaccuracy. When the NiMH battery reaches a factory-set voltage, the time code generator will shut off and the time-of-day clock will take over — holding time and date for up to 60 days.

744T maintains accurate time code for 2 hours after power-down with a fully charged NiMH battery time code AA battery, even with the Li-ion and external DC power sources removed.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 55

Auto Functions with External Powering

The 744T can perform several functions when DC power is applied to and removed from the recorder. Options available include:

• Power on unit – unit will turn on and be ready for operation.

• Power on and begin recording – unit will power on and begin recording with the settings used when previously powered down.

• Power on, power off unit – external DC functions as the on/off switch.

• Power on and begin recording, power off – unit will power and begin recording, then turn off when power is removed.

These functions are useful when the unit is part of a production kit powered by a single power source. A single power switch can be used to power on the whole kit.

In addition to the internal record timer, the auto functions (power on/begin record/power off) can be used for more extensive unattended recording control. Using an outboard timer attached to a DC supply the 744T can be placed and activated to record events including EFX or nature, and for surveillance applications.

Firmware Upgrades

The 744T uses upgradable EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory) to hold the unit’s operating system software, or ﬁ rmware. Firmware is the source code which controls all aspects of the device, including: menu options, signal routing, signal processing, LED’s, button and switches, and data ports.

Version Information

During manufacturing the unit’s hardware revision number and serial number are burned into a protected area of the EEPROM and are not changeable. These numbers can be viewed from the INFO:VERSION selection of the setup menu. INFO:VERSION also shows the ﬁ rmware version of the recorder.

The 744T ﬁ rmware version and unit serial numbers are written to the data chunk of every WAV and BWF audio ﬁ le generated by the 744T.

Upgrading Firmware

From time to time Sound Devices may issue revisions (new versions) of ﬁ rmware for the 744T. Firmware is user-upgradeable. To upgrade ﬁ rmware follow the steps below.

1. Download the ﬁ rmware ﬁ le from the Sound Devices web site.

2. Transfer the ﬁ rmware ﬁ le (it will be named VERSION _ NUMBER.PRG) to the 744T internal hard drive via

FireWire or onto a CF card. If there are multiple ﬁ rmware ﬁ les on the media, the 744T will indicate the ﬁ rmware ﬁ le listed to apply. To prevent confusion, ensure that there is only one ﬁ rmware ﬁ le available on either 744T media.

3. Enter the ﬁ rmware upgrade menu. You will be prompted to search for the ﬁ rmware ﬁ le. If a valid

ﬁ rmware ﬁ le is present on either the internal hard drive or CF the recorder will prompt if the path is the proper ﬁ le to use. Press the Rotary Switch or the tone key to say yes. The 744T will begin ﬁ rmware upgrade and validation. Progress is indicated with a bar graph.

Page 56

744T User Guide and Technical Information

4. When the upgrade and verify process is complete, power cycle the 744T. On power-up the LCD will

turn solid black and the green LED next to the FireWire port will blink 20 times. When the update sequence is complete, the 744T will reboot once again.

5. Verify the ﬁ rmware version using the INFO:SOFTWARE menu.

6. Reset the time-of-day clock, time code generator, and verify any recording parameters.

7. It is best practice to download the latest user guide from the Sound Devices web site, since the changes

to functionality are documented.

Firmware upgrades usually preserve all user menu settings. However, save a snapshot of the settings to a setup ﬁ le on the hard drive or CF. Once a ﬁ rmware upgrade is complete, restore settings from this ﬁ le, if necessary. Some ﬁ rmware updates may make changes to user setups; verify all user setups after an upgrade.

Setup Menu Presets

Presets are useful shortcuts to speed setting the numerous parameters available in the setup menu. The 744T has four built-in presets and unlimited user presets.

Built-In Presets

The 744T is shipped from the factory with the factory preset applied. Its settings are listed below. Three additional presets, ﬁ lm, reporter, and music presets allow for quick setup of typical parameters for the deﬁ ned application. Presets are applied by entering the setup menu and selecting the preset. All previous settings are lost when a preset is applied.

744T Presets

Rec: FireWire Connection Computer Connect Computer Connect Computer Connect Computer Connect

Rec: Sampling rate 48 kHz 48 kHz 44.1 kHz 44.1 kHz

Rec: Bit Depth 24 bits 24 bits 16 bits 16 bits

Rec: File Type .wav poly .wav mono .wav mono .wav poly

Rec: Media Select

Rec: Scene Name/Number None None None None

Rec: Track Names

Rec: Take Name/Number T 01 T 01 T 01 T 01

Rec: Take Reset Mode When Scene is changed When Scene is changed When Scene is changed When Scene is changed

Rec: Pre-Roll Time 2 Sec 2 Sec 2 Sec 2 Sec

Rec: Dither Off Off On On

Rec: Timer Start Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled

Rec: Timer Stop Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled

Factory Pre-

set

EXHDD and INHDD

and CF

Track A: Track A

Track B: Track B

Track C: Track C

Track D: Track D

EXHDD only INHDD only EXHDD only

Track A: Track A

Track B: Track B

Track C: Track C

Track D: Track D

Film

Preset

Reporter

Preset

Track A: Track A

Track B: Track B

Track C: Track C

Track D: Track D

Track A: Track A

Track B: Track B

Track C: Track C

Track D: Track D

Music

Preset

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 57

744T Presets

Rec: Error Handler

Rec: Record Indicator Normal Numbers Normal Numbers Normal Numbers Normal Numbers

Input: Routing 1->A / 2->B / 3->C /4-> D 1->A / 2->B / 3->C /4-> D 1->A,B / 2->A,B 1->A / 2->B

Input 1: 48V Phantom Off On - Mic On - Mic On - Mic

Input 2: 48V Phantom Off On - Mic On - Mic On - Mic

Mic Inputs: Limiter Enabled Enabled Enabled Enabled

Mic Input 1: Low Cut Disabled Disabled Enabled Disabled

Mic Input 2: Low Cut Disabled Disabled Enabled Disabled

Mic Input 1: Low Cut Frequency 40 Hz, 12 dB/oct 40 Hz, 12 dB/oct 40 Hz, 24 dB/oct 40 Hz, 12 dB/oct

Mic Input 2: Low Cut Frequency 40 Hz, 12 dB/oct 40 Hz, 12 dB/oct 40 Hz, 24 dB/oct 40 Hz, 12 dB/oct

Mic Input 1: Gain Range Normal Normal Normal Normal

Mic Input 2: Gain Range Normal Normal Normal Normal

Input 1,2: Source Auto Select Auto Select Auto Select Auto Select

Input 3,4: Source Auto Select Auto Select Auto Select Auto Select

Input 1,2: Linking, MS Unlinked Unlinked Unlinked Linked 1,2

Line Input 1,2: Gain Ctrl Use Front Panel Knobs Use Front Panel Knobs Use Front Panel Knobs Use Front Panel Knobs

Line Input 3: Gain 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB

Line Input 4: Gain 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB 0.0 dB

Input 1: Delay 0 usec 0 usec 0 usec 0 usec

Input 2: Delay 0 usec 0 usec 0 usec 0 usec

Input 3: Delay 0 usec 0 usec 0 usec 0 usec

Input 4: Delay 0 usec 0 usec 0 usec 0 usec

File: Marker Mode New File New File New File New File

File: Max Size 2G CF (1.8 GB) 2G CF (1.8 GB) 2G CF (1.8 GB) 2G CF (1.8 GB)

File: Folder Options None None None None

File: Copy Files Copy all INHDD> CF Copy all INHDD > CF Copy all INHDD > CF Copy all INHDD > CF

File: Copy Flag Reset Enabled Enabled Enabled Enabled

TimeCode: Frame Rate 30 30 30 30

TimeCode: Mode Free Run Free Run Off Off

TimeCode: User Bits mm:dd:yy.tt mm:dd:yy.tt Not Used Not Used

TimeCode: Jam Menu Jam RX TC Jam RX TC Jam RX TC Jam RX TC

TimeCode: Display Mode Big A-time Big A-time Big A-time Big A-time

Output1 Left: Source Track A Track A Track A Track A

Output1 Right: Source Track B Track B Track B Track B

Output1 L,R: Attenuation 0 dB 0 dB 0 dB 0 dB

Output2 Left: Source Track C Track C Track C Track C

Output2 Right: Source Track D Track D Track D Track D

Output2 L,R: Attenuation 0 dB 0 dB 0 dB 0 dB

Digital Output: Mode Consumer Consumer Consumer Consumer

Play: AutoPlay Mode Play All Play All Play All Play All

Time/Date: 12/24 Hr 12 Hr 12 Hr 12 Hr 12 Hr

Time/Date: Date Format MM/DD/YY MM/DD/YY MM/DD/YY MM/DD/YY

LCD Contrast 50% 50% 50% 50%

Meter: Ballistics Peak Hold + VU Peak Hold + VU Peak Hold + VU Peak Hold + VU

Meter: Peak Threshold 0 dBFS 0 dBFS 0 dBFS 0 dBFS

Factory Pre-

set

Keep Recording, to a

new file

Keep Recording, to a new file Keep Recording, to a new file

Film

Preset

Reporter

Preset

Music

Preset

Keep Recording, to a

new file

Page 58

744T User Guide and Technical Information

744T Presets

Meter: Stealth Mode Off Off Off Off

HP: Rotary Sw Function Selects Favorite Mode Selects Favorite Mode Selects Favorite Mode Selects Favorite Mode

HP: Monitor Modes

HP: Favorite Mode Tracks A,B Tracks A,B Tracks A,B Tracks A,B

HP: Playback Mode Tracks A,B Tracks A,B Tracks A,B Tracks A,B

HP: Warning Bell -30 dBFS -30 dBFS -30 dBFS -30 dBFS

HP: Record/Stop Bell Disabled Disabled Disabled Disabled

Tone: Level -20 dBFS -20 dBFS -12 dBFS -12 dBFS

Tone: Frequency 1000 Hz 1000 Hz 1000 Hz 1000 Hz

Tone: Mode

INHDD: Empty Trash Empty Trash Empty Trash Empty Trash Empty Trash

CF: Empty Trash Empty Trash Empty Trash Empty Trash Empty Trash

EXHDD: Empty Trash Empty Trash Empty Trash Empty Trash Empty Trash

Power: Ext Low Batt Volt 11.0 volts 11.0 volts 11.0 volts 11.0 volts

Power: Ext Power Function Do Nothing Do Nothing Do Nothing Do Nothing

Ext Keyboard: Assign

Ext Keyboard: Langauge English English English English

CL-1: Re-Program CL-1 Module CL-1 Module CL-1 Module CL-1 Module

CL-1: Logic Out Assign (Undefined) (Undefined) (Undefined) (Undefined)

Factory Pre-

set

01> Inputs 1,2

02> Inputs 3,4

03> Tracks A,B

04> Tracks C,D

05> Input 1,1

06> Input 2,2

07> Input 3,3

08> Input 4,4

09> Monitor A,B

10> Monitor C,D

To Rec Tracks and

Outputs

F1 > Record

F2 > Stop Button

F3 > Rewind Button

F4 > Play Button

F5 > Fast Forward Button

CTRL + C > File: Copy

Files Last 24Hr CF >

EXHDD

CTRL + H > File: Copy

Files Last 24Hr INHDD >

EXHDD

01> Inputs 1,2

02> Inputs 3,4

03> Tracks A,B

04> Tracks C,D

05> Input 1,1

06> Input 2,2

07> Input 3,3

08> Input 4,4

09> Monitor A,B

10> Monitor C,D

To Rec Tracks and Outputs To Rec Tracks and Outputs To Rec Tracks and Outputs

F1 > Record

F2 > Stop Button

F3 > Rewind Button

F4 > Play Button

F5 > Fast Forward Button

CTRL + C > File: Copy Files

Last 24Hr CF > EXHDD

CTRL + H > File: Copy Files

Last 24Hr INHDD > EXHDD

Film

Preset

Reporter

Preset

01> Tracks A,B

F1 > Record

F2 > Stop Button

F3 > Rewind Button

F4 > Play Button

F5 > Fast Forward Button

CTRL + C > File: Copy Files

Last 24Hr CF > EXHDD

CTRL + H > File: Copy Files

Last 24Hr INHDD > EXHDD

Music

Preset

01> Inputs 1,2

02> Inputs 3,4

03> Tracks A,B

04> Tracks C,D

05> Input 1,1

06> Input 2,2

07> Input 3,3

08> Input 4,4

09> Monitor A,B

10> Monitor C,D

F1 > Record

F2 > Stop Button

F3 > Rewind Button

F4 > Play Button

F5 > Fast Forward Button

CTRL + C > File: Copy

Files Last 24Hr CF >

EXHDD

CTRL + H > File: Copy

Files Last 24Hr INHDD >

EXHDD

User Setup Data File

All of the set parameters in the table above can be saved in a date ﬁ le to internal hard drive or to CF card. By entering the Get/Save Setup Menu, the user can save or restore parameters to and from this data ﬁ le. This binary ﬁ le is named 744T.S UP and is saved in the SOUNDDEV directory on the medium selected in the setup menu.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 59

Setup Menu

The setup menu controls a wide range of parameters for the 744T, including all audio routing, recording settings, and time code options. The setup menu is a single, ﬂ at architecture with no submenus, easing navigation. Each setup controls a speciﬁ c parameter with several selections. The chart below shows the setup number, a description of the control, and the menu options available.

# Setup Name Setup Description Setup Options

Quick Setup

FireWire: Connection

Rec: Sample Rate

Rec: Bit Depth

Rec: File Type

Rec: Media Select

Allows the user to quickly apply default menu setups and save/retrieve user setups to disk or CF.

Activates FireWire drive mode. • Computer/Connect (STOP+HDD buttons)

Sets the audio sampling frequency of the 744T

• Load Factory Settings

- restores the factory default settings

• Load Film Settings

- applies typical setups for film production

• Load Reporter Settings

- applies typical setups for voice recording

• Load Music Settings

- applies typical setups for music recording

• Load User from INHDD

- applies settings saved by user to hard disk

• Load User from CF

- applies settings saved by user to CF

• Save User to INHDD

- saves present state to file on hard drive

• Save User to CF

- saves present state to file on CF

• External Drive

• 32 kHz

• 44.1 kHz

• 48 kHz

• 48.048 kHz

• 48.048k F

• 96 kHz

• 96.096 kHz

• 96.096 k F

• 176.4 kHz

• 192 kHz

• 88.2 kHz

Sets the bit depth of the 744T recordings. • 16 bit,

Selects the file format (type) recorded to the selected medium.

Selects the storage media used for recording. Media is selectable even if it is not present.

• 24 bit

• .WAV poly

• .WAV mono

• INHDD Only

• CF Only

• EXHDD Only

• INHDD and CF

• EXHDD and INHDD

• EXHDD and CF

• EXHDD and INHDD and CF

Rec: Scene Name/Number

Rec: Track Names

Rec: Take Name/Number

User-defined, alpha-numeric file scene names can be pre-set and selected from a list. Scene name lists can be saved to hard drive.

used to identify a track name which shows up in iXML and BWF metadata

Numeric, auto-incrementing number used for take identification.

Scene name can also be left blank

• Track A

• Track B

• Track C

• Track D

• Mix

• Boom

• <Add New Entry>

• <Load List From INHDD>

• <Save List From INHDD>

Page 60

744T User Guide and Technical Information

# Setup Name Setup Description Setup Options

Rec: Take Reset Mode

Rec: Pre-Roll Time

Rec: Dither

Rec: Timer Start

Rec: Timer Stop

Rec: Error Handler

Rec: Record Indicator

17 Input: Routing Allows the user to setup their routing matrix

Input 1: 48V Phantom

Input 2: 48V Phantom

Mic Inputs: Limiter

Mic Input 1: Low Cut

Mic Input 2: Low Cut

Mic Input 1: Low Cut Freq

Mic Input 2: Low Cut Freq

Mic Input 1: Gain Range

Mic Input 2: Gain Range

Input 1, 2: Source

Input 3, 4: Source

Defines when take numbers are reset. Reset brings take number to <1>.

Selects the amount of pre-roll time the 744T will add to the beginning of each file.

Selects whether to dither is added to 24 bit digital signals while recording 16 bit files.

Sets a specific start time/date for unattended recording. Unit must be powered.

Set a specific time/date to stop recording. May be used with or without the Rec: Timer Start. May be set before the Timer Start time to temporarily stop recording and then resume recording with Timer Start.

Sets the behavior when a hard drive write error occurs.

Sets how the large display looks when the unit enters record.

among all available inputs and tracks. There are preset routings and three custom routings available. Pressing the input select key repeatedly will cycle through all preset routings.

Primarily accessible from the Input Select Key.

Enables or disables 48 V phantom power on inputs 1 and 2.

Enables or disables the analog input limiter on input 1 and 2 mic preamps.

Enables the high-pass (low cut) filter to reduce sensitivity to low frequencies.

Selection of twelve high-pass filter frequency and slope combinations for microphone inputs.

Selects the sensitivity of the microphone input. Low sensitivity is used for very loud and/or very hot microphones.

Forces the inputs to analog or digital mode. Default is auto-select.

• Never

- take numbers do not reset

• When scene is changed

- take resets when scene name is changed

• When daily folder changes

- takes reset on new day

• Either scene or daily

- takes reset on either change

0–10 sec. @ 48 kHz 0–5 sec. @ 88.2–96.096 kHz 0–2 sec. @ >96.096–192 kHz

• Off

• On (16 bit only)

• Stop recording

• Keep Recording to New File

• Normal Numbers

• Reverse Numbers

• Flash Numbers

• 1 ➞ A / 2 ➞ B

• 1 ➞ A / 1 ➞ B

• 1 ➞ A,B / 2 ➞ A,B

• 1 ➞ A / 2 ➞ B / 3 ➞ C / 4 ➞ D

• 1,2,3 ➞ A / 1 ➞ B / 2 ➞ C / 3 ➞ D

• 1 ➞ A,C / 2 ➞ B,D

• 3 ➞ C / 4 ➞ D

• Custom Route 1

• Custom Route 2

• Custom Route 3

• Off

• On - Mic

• On - Mic and Line

• Disabled

• Enabled

• Disabled

• Enabled

• 40, • 80, • 160, • 240 Hz @ 12 dB/oct

• 40, • 80, • 160, • 240 Hz @ 18 dB/oct

• 40, • 80, • 160, • 240 Hz @ 24 dB/oct

• Normal

• Low

• Auto-select

• Analog

• Digital (S/PDIF/AES)

• Disabled (Power Save)

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 61

# Setup Name Setup Description Setup Options

Input 1,2: Linking, MS

Line Input 1,2: Gain Control

Line Input 1: Gain

Line Input 2: Gain

Line Input 3: Gain

LIne Input 4: Gain

Input 1: Delay

Input 2: Delay

Input 3: Delay

Input 4: Delay

File: Marker Mode

File: Max Size

File: Folder Options

Selects whether the input 1 & 2 levels are controlled independently or grouped as a pair with or without mid-side decoding.

When inputs 1 and 2 are in LINE input mode, selects whether the gain setting is controlled by the front panel knobs or by the menu sensitivity settings below.

Adjusts the input sensitivity in 0.1 dB steps –6 dB and +18 dB.

Sets a digital delay for each input. Can be used to compensate for delay in various digital wireless microphone units or digital processors.

Enables the user to set cue points on the fly while recording by pressing the record key.

Selects the file size where the 744T will close, then start a new file. The 744T will not record a file larger than the selected size.

The largest file permissible with the 744T’s FAT32 file system is 4 GiB

Allows user to organize files in root and subfolders. To not use any folders select <None> on every level.

• Unlinked Inputs 1 and 2 operate independently

• Linked 1/2 Inputs are linked, channel 1 pot controls level, channel 2 pot controls pan

• Linked 1/2 and MS Inputs are linked, channel. 1 pot controls level, channel. 2 pot controls pan and are decoded for MS stereo.

• Use front panel knobs

• Use sensitivity settings

Meters show a pre-fader level of the input signal of all four inputs on their respective meters to aid in the adjustment.

0 µsec to 30,000 µsec up to 48.048 kHz Fs 0 µsec to 15,000 µsec up to 96.096 kHz Fs 0 µsec to 7,500 µsec up to 192 kHz Fs

• Markers disabled No cue marks are set.

• New Cue Cue markers will be set within one contiguous file.

• New File A new file is started with each press of the record key, the take counter is increased by one.

• 4 GB

• 2 GB

• 1 GB

• 640 MB

• TOP-LEVEL

•MID-LEVEL

3.6 GB

1.8 GB 950 MB 450 MB

• BOTTOMLEVEL

File: View Files

File: View Take List

File: Copy Files

File: Copy Flag Reset

Enters the file directory tree for the selected drive.

Allows user to view the last 200 takes. Takes can be selected and converted to circle takes.

Allows the user to select a file or a range of files to be copied from one storage media to another. Files will only be copied from their current directory to a directory of the same name on the other media. If a file will not fit on the destination media, user is given the option to skip that file and continue with the copy or abort the copy all together. User is advised at the end of the copy process how many files were copied successfully.

Selects whether the flag bit is cleared or not on files copied from one media to another.

Highlight media descriptor to navigate the menu

• Circle

• Copy all {drive} ➞ {drive}

• Last 24 hr {drive} ➞ {drive}

• Last 48 hr {drive} ➞ {drive}

• Flagged {drive} ➞ {drive}

All files, when recorded, automatically have their flag bit set to “on”

• Disabled

• Enabled

Page 62

744T User Guide and Technical Information

# Setup Name Setup Description Setup Options

Time Code: Frame Rate

Time Code: Mode

Time Code: User Bits

Sets the time code frame rate. All common time code frame rates are available.

Sets the mode for the time code generator • Off – time code not active, recorded or output

Sets the time code user bits generated by the 744T.

mm – month dd – day of week yy – year tt – take number uu – user-defined

• 23.976 – used with high definition video cameras

• 24 – to sync audio to film where no transfer to NTSC video is expected

• 25 – to sync sound to PAL video

• 29.97 – to sync sound to NTSC video shot in nondrop frame mode

• 29.97DF - to sync sound to NTSC video shot in drop frame mode

• 30 – to sync sound to film where transfer to NTSC video is expected

• 30DF – to sync sound to film for transfer to NTSC video in drop-frame mode

• Free Run – time code is initialized from the jam menu and then runs continuously regardless of record mode

• Free Run Jam Once – time code is initialized from an external source and updates itself to the external source when reconnected

• Record Run – time code is initially set from the jam value item in the jam menu. Time code generation runs only during recording generating continuous time code from file to file.

• 24 Hr Run – time code is initialized from the system clock on startup and enters free run mode. Time code is updated if the time of day clock is adjusted.

• Ext TC – applies external time code to the recorder directly. The internal time code generator has no effect.

• Ext TC/cont – applies external time code to the recorder; internal generator continues to run if time code signal is lost. Useful for time code transmission over RF

• Ext TC-Auto Record – applies external time code to the recorder. Unit enters Record when time code runs and stops when time code stops.

• Ext TC/cont-Auto Record – applies external time code to the recorder; internal generator continues to run if time code signal is lost. Unit enters Record when time code runs and stops when time code stops.

• Not Used – user bits are not set or output

• mm:dd:yy.tt

• dd:mm:yy.tt

• uu:uu:tt:tt – user bits are set to 4 user definable digits with 4 take digits

• uu:uu:uu:uu

• tt:tt:tt.tt – user bits are set to the take counter for all 8 digits

• mm:dd:yy:uu

• dd:mm:yy:uu

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 63

# Setup Name Setup Description Setup Options

Time Code: Jam Menu

Time Code: Display Mode

Output 1 Left: Source

Output 1 Right: Source

Allows the user to jam or edit the internal time code generator and user bits. (Also accessible by pressing HDD and Menu keys simultaneously).

Sets the numbers of the large numerical display.

Selects the signal source for the Master Output Bus (TA3 outputs, tape outputs, and digital 1 outputs.

• Jam RX TC – jams the internal generator to received external code

• Jam Zeros – resets the internal generator to zero

• Jam Value – sets the internal generator to the value set in edit value

• Edit Value – allows to user to enter a free-form number to initialize the time code

• Edit U-Bit – allows the user to edit allowed user bit numbers

• Big A-time

• Big time code

• Input 1

• Input 2

• Input 3

• Input 4

• Track A

• Track B

• Track C

• Track D

• Input 1+2

• Input 3+4

• Input 1+3

• Input 2+4

• Input 1+2+3

• Input 2+3+4

• Input 1+2+3+4

• Track A+B

• Track C+D

• Track A+C

• Track B+D

• Track A+B+C

• Track B+C+D

• Track A+B+C+D

Output 1 L,R: Attenuation

Output 2 Left: Source

Output 2 Right: Source

Output 2 L,R: Attenuation

Digital Output: Mode

Play: AutoPlay Mode

Time/Date: 12/24 Hr

Time/Date: Date Format

Time/Date: Set

LCD: Contrast

Selects the attenuation level of signal sent to the Master Output Bus.

Selects the signal source for output bus 2 sent to digital output bus 2.

selectable from 0 to −40 dBFS

• Input 1

• Input 2

• Input 3

• Input 4

• Track A

• Track B

• Track C

• Track D

• Input 1+2

• Input 3+4

• Input 1+3

Selects the attenuation level of the signal output to bus 2.

Selects whether or not the consumer SPDIF bit is applied or not in the AES3id output.

Allows user to play file(s) consecutively from selected directory, one time through or continuously.

Great for playing an MP3 collection during down time!

Selects between 12 hour and 24 hour time. • 12 hr

Selects the date syntax of the recorder. • mm/dd/yy

Sets the internal date and time of the 744T.

Resetting the time re-jams the internal time code generator to the set time. Setting the internal clock during a production day will require time code devices to be re-jammed.

Adjusts the contrast level of the LCD display. 0–100%

selectable from 0 to –40 dBFS

• Consumer

• Professional

• Disabled

• Play all

• Repeat one

• Repeat all

• 24 hr

• dd/mm/yy

<time, date>

Clock is not set until <done> is selected

• Input 2+4

• Input 1+2+3

• Input 2+3+4

• Input 1+2+3+4

• Track A+B

• Track C+D

• Track A+C

• Track B+D

• Track A+B+C

• Track B+C+D

• Track A+B+C+D

Page 64

744T User Guide and Technical Information

# Setup Name Setup Description Setup Options

Meter: Ballistics

Meter: Peak Threshold

Meter: Stealth Mode

HP: Rotary Switch Function

HP: Monitor Modes

HP: Favorite Mode

HP: Playback Mode

HP: Warning Bell Level

HP: Rec/Stop Bell

Tone: Level

Tone: Frequency

Tone: Mode

Selects among five different meter ballistics settings

User-set level in dBFS where track peak LED’s illuminate. 0 LED doubles as track peak indicator.

Enables LEDs to toggle on and off with the LCD backlight key.

Selects the functionality of the Rotary Switch’s button when in record and playback.

Select the sequence of the modes that appear in the Headphone Source Display on the LCD.

Selects the audio source monitored when the Rotary Switch is pressed during recording or playback.

Selects the audio source sent to headphones upon playback.

Set the output level of the multi-function warning bell.

Alerts the user with one beep at the start of recording and two beeps when the recording is stopped

Set the output level of the reference tone −40 to 0 dBFS in 1 dB steps

Allows the user to set the frequency of the reference tone oscillator

Select the destination of the reference tone or to disables it completely

• VU only

• Peak only

• Peak+VU

• Peak-hold + VU

• Peak-hold only

0 to −20 dBFS (1 dB increments)

• Off

• On

• Disabled: push makes no change to the headphone matrix.

• Selects Favorite Mode: in record and playback modes, push will change the headphone source immediately to the favorite selected in HP: Favorite Mode.

• Headphones to C/D Meters: momentarily shows headphone level on tracks C & D LED meters.

• Playback/Monitor Drive Select Selects the media source for file playback and record monitoring

Up to 20 source selections can be entered in any order. See headphone monitor section in guide for adjustment and Favorite Mode below for list of headphone selections.

Inputs 1,2 Inputs 3,4 Tracks A,B Tracks C,D Monitor A,B Monitor C,D Input 1,1 Input 2,2 Input 3,3 Input 4,4 Track A,A Track B,B Track C,C Track D,D Monitor A,A Monitor B,B Monitor C,C Monitor D,D Inputs 1,2 (MS) Inputs 3,4 (MS)

Tracks A,B (MS) Tracks C,D (MS) Monitor A,B (MS) Monitor C,D (MS) Inputs 1+2+3+4 Inputs 1, 2+3+4 Inputs 1+2,1+2 Inputs 1+3,1+3 Inputs 2+4,2+4 Inputs 3+4,3+4 Inputs 1+2,3+4 Inputs 1+3,2+4 Tracks A+B+C+D Tracks A, B+C+D Tracks A+B,A+B Tracks A+C,A+C Tracks B+D,B+D Tracks C+D,C+D Tracks A+B,C+D Tracks A+C,B+D In B-format stereo Trk B-format stereo

• No change

• Same as options listed above

off, −60 to –12 dBFS in 1 dB steps

• Disabled

• Enabled

100–10,000 Hz in 100 Hz steps

• disabled

• to record tracks only

• to outputs only

• to record tracks and outputs

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 65

# Setup Name Setup Description Setup Options

INHDD: Test

INHDD: Space

INHDD: (Erase)

INHDD: Repair

INHDD: Empty Trash

CF: Test

CF: Space

CF: (Erase)

CF: Repair

Performs a write/read speed test on the internal hard drive. Data transfer speed is measured in KB/s.

Shows the drive file system, total size, and space remaining on the internal hard drive.

Formats the internal hard drive.

Caution, while various PC utilities are able to recover files from a re-formatted drive, once formatted old audio data is not accessible by the 744T.

Runs a utility to repair minor errors in the directory (FAT) of the drive.

Allows user to delete files previously sent to the trash as well as false takes.

Performs a speed test on the Compact Flash media installed. Data transfer speed is measured in KB/s.

Shows the drive file system, total size, and space remaining on connected Compact Flash medium.

Formats installed Compact Flash medium

Caution, while various PC utilities are able to recover files from re-formatted drives, once formatted, old audio data is not accessible by the 744T.

Runs a utility that will repair minor errors in the directory structure of the Compact Flash.

Caution: Drive test will disable processing and mute outputs for duration of test. Outputs will not return until test is exited.

• Empty Trash

• Empty False Takes

• Empty both

Caution: Drive test will disable processing and mute outputs for duration of test. Outputs will not return until test is exited.

CF: Empty Trash

EXHDD: Test

EXHDD: Space

EXHDD: (Erase)

EXHDD: Repair

EXHDD: Empty Trash

Balance Cal

Power: Ext Low Batt Volt

Allows user to delete files previously sent to the trash as well as false takes.

Performs a speed test on the external media attached. Data transfer speed is measured in KB/s.

Shows the drive file system, total size, and space remaining on connected Compact Flash medium.

Formats attached FireWire storage volume

Caution, while various PC utilities are able to recover files from re-formatted drives, once formatted, old audio data is not accessible by the 744T.

Runs a utility that will repair minor errors in the directory structure of the external FireWire storage volume.

Allows user to delete files previously sent to the trash as well as false takes.

Calibrates the center position of the input 2 pot when used as the balance control for MS recording.

Sets the warning voltage of the low battery alert with an external power source. Internal battery warning threshold is factory set.

• Empty Trash

• Empty False Takes

• Empty both

Caution: Drive test will disable processing and mute outputs for duration of test. Outputs will not return until test is exited.

• Empty Trash

• Empty False Takes

• Empty both

Place balance control to center and press to select.

10.0–18.0 VDC, 0.1 V steps

Page 66

744T User Guide and Technical Information

# Setup Name Setup Description Setup Options

Power: Ext Power Function

Ext Keyboard: Assign

Ext Keyboard: Language

CL-1: Re-program

CL-1: Logic Out Assign

Info: Button Shortcuts

Info: Version

Update Software

Controls the behavior of the unit when power is applied to the external DC jack.

Enter to setup keyboard shortcuts when using the CL-1 keyboard interface

Select the language of the keyboard attached to the CL-1.

The CL-1 has its own firmware which is supplied from the 744T. This utility updates the CL-1 firmware.

Each logic output pin can be assigned to go high when the unit is in the selected mode. Logic input overrides logic output selection.

An informative menu showing the available keyboard shortcuts.

Shows the hardware revision, serial number, and firmware version of the unit.

Upgrade tool used to apply new firmware. It will search all connected storage for the firmware file and prompt to update.

• Do Nothing

• Power On Unit

• Power On and Start Record

• Power On/Off unit

• Power On/Off unit and Record

• English

• German

• French

• Undefined

• Stop

• Play

• Pause

• Record

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 67

Speciﬁ cations

System

Sampling Frequency internal: 32, 44.1, 48, 48.048, 88.2, 96, 96.096, 176.4, 192 kHz

Internal Data Path and Processing

A/D, D/A Converters

A/D Dynamic Range

D/A Dynamic Range

Metering

external clocking: 32–192 kHz via word clock input

32 bit, 192 dB dynamic range

24 bit, 192 kHz sampling rate maximum. A/D converters on socketed, field-upgradeable daughter board

114 dB, A-weighted bandwidth 110 dB, 20 Hz–22 kHz bandwidth

112 dB, A-weighted bandwidth 108 dB, 20 Hz–22 kHz bandwidth

76-segment (4 x 19), sunlight-viewable selectable peak, VU, or peak (with or without peak hold) with VU ballistics, variable brightness

Analog Input

(all measurements at Fs 96 kHz, 24 bit unless noted)

Frequency Response

Equivalent Input Noise

THD + Noise

Gain (input dBu to −20 dBFS)

Input Impedance

Input Clipping Level

Input Topology Mic and Line: fully electronically balanced, RF, ESD, short, and overload protected; pin-2 hot,

Gain Matching Line inputs: ±0.1 dB, channel-to-channel

Common Mode Rejection Ratio

High-Pass Filters

Mic Powering (each XLR selectable)

Mic Input Limiters

Mic or Line: 10 Hz–40 kHz, +0.1, −0.5 dB (gain controls centered)

Mic: −133 dBu max (−135 dBV), 50 ohm source, A-weighted filter Mic: −131 dBu max (−133 dBV), 50 ohm source, 20 Hz–20 kHz BW flat filter, gain fully up Mic: −130 dBu max (−132 dBV), 150 ohm source, A-weighted filter Mic: −128 dBu max (−130 dBV), 150 ohm source, 20 Hz–20 kHz BW flat filter, gain fully up

Mic: 0.004% max (1 kHz, 22 Hz–22 kHz BW, gain control down, −15 dBu input) Line: 0.004% max (1 kHz, 22 Hz–22 kHz BW, gain control down, +16 dBu input)

Mic (normal gain mode): 25–70 dB Mic (low gain mode): 10–55 dB Line: −6–18 dB, 0.1 dB increments

Mic (XLR): 7.5k ohm Line (XLR and TA3): 20k ohm

Mic input: −5 dBu minimum (normal gain mode, gain control fully down) Mic input: +10 dBu minimum (low gain mode, gain control fully down) Line input: +26 dBu minimum (gain control fully down)

pin-3 cold

Mic: 40 dB minimum at 80 Hz

40, 80, 160, 240 Hz @ 12/18/24 dB/oct (all menu selectable)

48 V phantom through 6.8k resistors, 10 mA per mic available, menu-selected per channel in mic or line level positions

analog (pre-A/D converter), dual-stage optocoupler and FET,

−4 dBFS threshold, 20:1 limiting ratio, 5 mS attack time, 200 mS release time

Output Analog

Line Output Clipping Level

Attenuation & Resolution

Output Topology

+20 dBu minimum, 10k ohm load

0–40 dB, 1 dB increments

Line: fully electronically-balanced, RF, ESD, short, and overload protected; pin-2 driven hot, pin-3 driven cold; let pin-3 float for unbalanced connections.

Page 68

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Inputs/Outputs – Digital

AES3-id

75 ohm, 0.5 V p-p, S/PDIF compatible with RCA adapter

Digital Storage

Internal hard drive

Compact Flash

File Types

Utilities format, speed test, and repair utility for internal HD and CF volumes

ATA-5 interface 1.8-in or 2.5-in hard drive 4200–7200 RPM supported, FAT32 formatted, up to 2 TB addressable

CF type I, II, and + (microdrive) compatible, FAT32 formatted, up to 2 TB addressable

WAV or BWF (AES-31 format), mono or polyphonic, at supported Fs, 24-bit or 16-bit MP3 @ 64, 96, 128, 240, or 320 kb/s stereo

Data Transfer / Control

FireWire

C. Link

drive-mode, IEEE-1394a compliant, 6-pin FireWire, Windows 2000, XP, Mac OS X only

6-wire modular input and output, RS-232 machine control, word clock, time code transfer

Time Code

Modes Supported

Frame Rates 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97DF, 29.97ND, 30DF, 30ND

Accuracy <0.2 ppm, when tuned with Ambient Master Controller, holds TC clock for 8 hours after main bat-

Input / Output

free run, record run, 24 hour run, external time code receive

tery removal (AA time code battery installed); after 8 hours, retains time of day

20k ohm impedance, 0.3V p-p (–8 dBu) minimum / 1k ohm impedance, 3.0V p-p (+12 dBu)

Powering

Internal Voltages

Power supply (batteries)

Power supply (external)

±16 VDC regulated audio rails 5 VDC data

3.3 VDC data

1.5 VDC DSP core 48 VDC phantom power

operating cell, removable 7.2 V (nominal) Sony M- or L-type Li-ion, operational from 6–8 V, time code battery, 1.2 V AA nickel metal-hydride

10–18 V, 1000 mA minimum, via locking 4-pin Hirose connector, use Hirose #HR10-7P-4P (DigiKey# HR100-ND) for locking mating DC connector; pin-1 (−), pin-2 (−), pin-3 (+), pin-4 (+).

Powering section for additional details

See

Environmental

Operation and Storage

ambient temperature 5–55° C, relative humidity (non-condensing) <80%

Other

LCD Display

Tone Oscillator

Quick Setups

202 x 32 pixels, extended temperature, backlit display

100 Hz–10 kHz, variable output, assigned to tracks or outputs (menu-selectable)

four factory presets, one user setup stored to CF or HD as data file

Dimensions and Weight

Size

Mass

45 mm x 209 mm x 125 mm (H x W x D)

1.8” x 8.2” x 4.9”

unpackaged: 1.2 kg, (2.6 lbs) without battery

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 69

Connector Pin Assignments

Each connector type, electrical characteristics, and pin assignment is shown below.

Connector Pin Assignments Notes

XLR (Analog Inputs)

XLR (AES Inputs)

TA3M Inputs

TA3M Master Output Bus

3.5 mm Master Output Bus

3.5 mm Headphone

5-pin LEMO Time code

AES3id (S/PDIF) Inputs

AES3id (S/PDIF) Outputs

Word Clock Input and Output

FireWire (-1394)

1 – ground 2 – signal (+) 3 – signal (-)

tip – signal L ring – signal R sleeve – signal ground

1 – ground 2 – SMPTE TC In 3 – ASCII in/out 4 – tuning out 5 – SMPTE TC out

center pin – signal sleeve – ground

7.5k ohm input impedance, mic level 20k ohm input impedance, line level active-balanced

transformer-balanced, for use 110 ohm twisted-pair cabling, AES3 specification

20k ohm input impedance, line level active-balanced. Mates with Switchcraft TA3F-type connector.

120 ohm output impedance, active balanced. For unbalanced connection, pin-1 ground, pin-2 hot, pin-3 not connected. Mates with Switchcraft TA3F-type connector.

Master Output Bus signal in an unbalanced, consumerelectronic level.

mates with 3.5 mm TRS jack.

LEMO B-series connector, pin assignments as viewed on panel-mounted connector

BNC female, unbalanced, coaxial connection, 75 ohm connectors recommended

6-pin male FireWire cable

C. Link In / Out

Hirose 4-pin DC Input

1 – +3.3 V 2 – Tx (output) 3 – ground 4 – Rx (input) 5 – WC in 6 – TC in

1 – ground 2 – ground, same as pin-1 3 – DC (+) 4 – DC (+)

Not a telephone jack!

DC applied to pin-3 will operate and charge the unit when on and off

DC applied to pin-4 will operate and charge the unit when on

Page 70

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Power Consumption Variables

The 744T draws power from either its on-board Li-ion battery or from external DC sources. Two factors need to be considered to calculate battery runtime—battery/power supply capacity and unit power consumption. The best determination of your run time is to experiment with a given recording setup.

The 744T power consumption varies over a range between 4 W to 20 W (12 volts), depending on active functions. The following functions have the most signiﬁ cant affect on power consumption:

Inputs

Hard Drive Activity When the unit is recording to or playing back from the internal hard drive, power consumption

Microphone Powering Phantom powered microphones draw power for operation. Up to 1 W can be drawn from the

Battery Chargers Depending on the charge state of the on-board Li-ion and the internal AA time code battery,

Sampling Rate

Active analog inputs increase power consumption. If recording from digital sources, disable analog inputs, or inputs altogether to reduce power consumption. If recording solely to inputs 1 and 2, disable inputs 3 and 4 to reduce power consumption. Analog inputs and the microphone preamps draw current whether they are idle or active. Active inputs draw 1.5 W compared to deactivated inputs.

raises by approximately 2 W.

phantom supply.

the charging circuit can draw ~10 W from external DC.

The 744T draws more power at higher sampling rates. Each doubling of the sampling rate adds ~1 W of power consumption.

Recording Time Calculation

The calculation of available 744T recording time involves three factors:

• track count - how many concurrent audio tracks are selected for recording.

• data rate - calculated from the sampling rate and bit depth for non-compressed audio and by bit rate for data compressed audio. Data rate determines how big the data “container” is for the audio signal (see the calculation below for determining PCM audio).

• storage capacity - typically expressed in GB

Uncompressed Recording Time in Track-Hours

Data Rate (bit depth/sampling rate), one track

15 49.5 45.5 30.3 15.2 7.59

(1000 MB = 1 GB)

Storage in GB

40 132 121 80.9 40.5 20.2

60 198 182 121 60.7 30.3

100 330 303 202 101 50.6

16/44.1

(5.05 MB/min)

1 3.30 3.03 2.02 1.01 0.51

2 6.60 6.07 4.05 2.02 1.01

4 13.2 12.1 8.09 4.05 2.02

8 26.4 24.3 16.2 8.09 4.05

16/48

(5.49 MB/min)

24/48

(8.24 MB/min)

24/96

(16.5 MB/min)

24/192

(33.0 MB/min)

The chart above shows recording time available with the 744T. Time is expressed in hours per track (track-hours) at the speciﬁ ed data rate supported by the 744T. If recording two tracks, divide the track hours ﬁ gure by two. Similarly for four-track recording, divide track-hours by four. Note that

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 71

the 744T supports additional sampling rate / bit depth combinations, however, only the most common are included below.

Record Time

The chart shows that when recording 24-bit/48 kHz audio to a 40 GB hard drive the maximum amount of recording time available roughly 80 track-hours. If recording a stereo two-track ﬁ le, this yields 40 stereo hours of record time.

Note that most storage media now quote capacity in GB using SI units, where 1000 megabytes equals one gigabyte.

PCM Audio

Uncompressed digital audio is expressed numerically by two measurements, bit depth and sampling frequency, such as 16-bit/48 kHz. These two numbers are used to compute the data rate of uncompressed audio.

Audio Data Rate = Bit Depth x Sampling Frequency

In the example below the data rate of a single 16-bit/48 kHz audio stream is computed in megabytes per minute. Division by 1,048,576 converts from bits to megabits. Division by 8 converts from megabits to megabytes; multiply by 60 converts seconds to minutes.

(((16 x 48000) / 1,048,576) / 8) x 60 = 5.49 MB/min

MP3 Compressed Record Time in Hours

MP3 Data Rate (bit depth/sampling rate), stereo track

64 kb/s

(0.47 MB/min)

1 35 23 17 14 11 8 7

2 71 47 35 28 23 17 14

4 142 94 71 56 47 35 28

8 284 189 142 113 94 71 56

15 533 355 266 213 177 133 106

(1000 MB = 1 GB)

Storage in GB

40 1422 948 711 568 474 355 284

60 2133 1422 1066 853 711 533 426

100 3555 2370 1777 1422 1185 888 711

96 kb/s

(0.70 MB/min)

The chart above shows recording time available with the 744T when recording to an MP3 ﬁ le. Time is expressed in hours at the speciﬁ ed MP3 supported by the 744T. Note that all recordings are twochannel recordings.

Compressed Audio

When digital audio is compressed using some form of lossy, perceptual process such as MPEG2Layer3 (MP3 audio), Windows Media encoding (WMA), ATRAC encoding (used in MiniDisc), AAC (MPEG-4 audio), or others - it can have a signiﬁ cant reduction in its data rate. Compressed audio has enabled the practical distribution of audio over low speed data networks.

128 kb/s

(0.94 MB/min)

160 kb/s

(1.17 MB/min)

192 kb/s

(1.40 MB/min)

256 kb/s

(1.86 MB/min)

320 kb/s

(2.34 MB/min)

Page 72

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Front Panel Button Shortcuts

To speed navigation the 7-Series has numerous navigation “shortcuts”. For combinations, hold down the ﬁ rst identiﬁ ed key and continue to hold while pressing the next keys.

Function Key Sequence Action

Record Tone

Jam Menu

Button Lock

Input Mutes

Input Routing

Phantom #1

Phantom #2

Low-cut #1

Low-cut #2

Connect FireWire

False Take

Increase Take

Take List

Toggle Drives

LED Level

Flashlight Mode

+ Rotary Switch

+ +

Record and Tone

In the menu File: Marker Mode must be set to Markers Disabled. While recording hold the REC button and press the tone button. Tone will be active as long as the tone button is held.

Menu and HDD

Enters the time code jam menu. (702T &744T Only)

Backlight and Tone

Press backlight then tone to lock all front panel buttons except for Record, Stop and Play. FF and Rew are available in playback mode. Use backlight and tone again to unlock the panel.

Input

Hold down and press soft buttons to mute inputs

Stop and Input

Hold down STOP and press INPUT to cycle through input routing presets. Last preset will open the input routing menu to the custom route selection

Tone and Menu

Toggles input 1 phantom power

Tone and HDD

Toggles input 2 phantom power

Backlight and Menu

Toggles Input 1 high-pass filter

Backlight and HDD

Toggles Input 2 high-pass filter

Stop and HDD

Initiates FireWire connection if previously disconnected via an “eject” command

Stop and Rewind

Delete last take prompt.

Stop and Fast Forward

Increments take number to be recorded for next file

Stop and Play

Take list and circle take identifying screen

HDD

Hold the HDD button down for 1 second to toggle between viewable drives.

Backlight and Rotary Switch

Adjusts level of LED brightness.

Rewind and Play and Stop

With the power off, hold down these buttons while powering the unit to enter Flashlight mode. This illuminates all LEDs except for three. Press power again to exit.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 73

Setup Menu Shortcuts

The setup menu can quickly be navigated by using the Rotary Switch to scroll up and down through the menu. Additionally, shortcuts, or “breadcrumbs” can be placed on often-used menu items. A breadcrumb is set by holding the play key. A small dot is shown to the left of the setup number. Any number of breadcrumbs can be set, but their utility is reduced with too many applied.

press and hold to set or remove a menu crumb; single press navigates to menu item #1

toggles among menu breadcrumbs to lower numbered items

with no breadcrumbs placed, moves to a previous general menu section

toggles among menu breadcrumbs to higher numbered items

with no breadcrumbs placed, moves to the next general menu section

CL-1 Remote Control and Keyboard Interface

The CL-1 Remote Control and Keyboard Interface is an available hardware accessory to interface computer keyboards and enable external devices to control the 744T. When using the CL-1, front panel controls and menu selections on the 744T can be mapped to keyboard shortcuts, allowing for full keyboard control of the recorder. Additionally the CL-1 has electrical contacts that can be programmed as inputs or outputs. A common use for the remote inputs is for machine control and “remote rolling” using a mixing console with transport controls.

Connecting the CL-1

1. Connect the included C. Link cable to the 744T’s C. Link Input connector.

2. Connect the opposite end of the C. Link cable to the CL-1’s C. Link connector.

3. Connect a PS/2 keyboard to the PS/2 connector on the CL-1.

4. Connect switches between assigned pins 1-7 and pin-8 (ground) on the CL-1.

The C. Link port on the 744T provides power for CL-1 operation.

Keyboard Assignments

Numerous standard keys and key combinations on attached keyboards are pre-assigned. The chart below shows the operation of these pre-assigned keys.

Page 74

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Key Function

Space Bar toggles play/pause of the current file

Sleep/Power/Log Off powers down the recorder

Escape cancel - exits without saving in all menus

Enter OK - exits with saving in all menus (check mark or EDIT)

Up Arrow duplicates the LCD up arrow in all menus

Down Arrow duplicates the LCD down arrow in all menus

Left Arrow duplicates the LCD RWD arrow in all menus

Right Arrow duplicates the LCD FFWD arrow in all menus

CTRL+Up Arrow in Setup Menu - moves to the previous category

CTRL+Down Arrow in Setup Menu - moves to the next category

Page Up in Setup Menu - moves to the previous category or marker

Page Down in Setup Menu - moves to the next category or marker

Home in Setup Menu - moves to the top of the list

Insert in Setup Menu - toggles markers

01-99 (number sequence)

in File Viewer - moves to the top of the list

in Setup Menu - jumps to menu list number

Assignable Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts can be programmed to control nearly every function on the 744T. Shortcuts can select and change menu items with a simple key strokes. Combinations of computer keyboard function keys, along with Control-, Alt-, and Shift- can also be programmed. The following chart shows what keys are programmable.

Assignable Keys Key Shift- Ctrl- Alt-

F1- F12 X X X X

0-9 - - X X

A-Z - - X X

Logic In 1-6 X - - -

To program a shortcut perform the following steps:

1. Enter the External Keyboard Assignment Setup Menu selection.

Shortcut number. Up to 50 shortcuts can be programmed

2. Select an unassigned shortcut number for programming. If a duplicate key sequence is selected the low-

est shortcut number action takes place. The example below shows the F1 key being reprogrammed.

3. Once a key sequence is selected the Setup Menu item is selected. The example below shows the repro-

gramming of the F1 key to change the sampling rate to 48048.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 75

Specific Setup Menu options can be programmed if multiple options are available.

If a single key or key combination is programmed for multiple shortcuts, the shortcut with the lowest number will take precedence.

Logic Inputs and Outputs

Identical to shortcuts assigned to computer keyboard key sequences, the CL-1 has six contacts that can be programmed to perform Setup Menu items or control the record, play, and stop functions of the recorder. A switch connected between the assigned pin and ground (pin-7) will form a circuit. Closing the circuit will activate the programmed action.

The Logic pins on the CL-1 can be set individually as either a switch-closure input or a switch closure output. The inputs and outputs are “logic low” devices, meaning that to turn “on” an input, it must be connected to ground (zero volts). Likewise, when an output is “on”, it puts out 0 volts and when it is “off”, it puts out +5 volts.

Logic Inputs

Conﬁ gured as a switch-closure input, a pin can be connected to a switch that a user has wired to assigned contact. This switch can then trigger the 744T to begin recording. Other functions can be assigned as well from the Setup Menu. The switch-closure on a given pin of the CL-1 can be thought of as just another key on the keyboard. Anything that can be assigned to a key can also be assigned to a switch.

To conﬁ gure a pin as an input, navigate to EXT KEYBOARD ASSIGN in the Setup Menu. Select a new SHORTCUT number, then locate the Login inputs amongst the assignable keys. Choosing LOGIC IN 1 would correspond to pin 1 on the CL-1, LOGIC IN 2 would correspond to pin 2 on the CL-1, and so on. After a Logic input is chosen assign the desired action that the Logic input will control.

Logic Outputs

Conﬁ gured as a switch-closure output, the CL-1 can drive LEDs, relays, or any other sort of device which will accept a TTL-level or similar input. For example, the CL-1 can drive a big red LED connected via a series resistor between the +5V output and a switch-closure output and light up whenever the recorder is put into record mode.

To conﬁ gure a pin as an output, go to CL-1: LOGIC OUT ASSIGN in the Setup Menu. The Logic Pin number is on the left hand side (“00”, “01”, etc). Each of these pins can be assigned to undeﬁ ned, Stop, Play, Record, or Pause. Note that if a pin is assigned to be both an input (via the EXT KEYBOARD ASSIGN Setup Menu) and an output (via the CL-1: LOGIC OUT ASSIGN Setup Menu), the pin will automatically default to an output.

Page 76

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Accessories

Included Accessories

The accessories below are included with the 744T:

• XL-WPH - worldwide mains power supply, 100–240 VAC input, 12 VDC, 24 W output

• XL-B2 - Li-ion removable rechargeable battery, 4800 mAh

• XL-14 - 3.5 mm to 1/4-inch jack for headphone output extension

• XL-RJ - C. Link cable for unit-to-unit linking

• XL-MAN - Padded man-bag

Optional Accessories

The above accessories are just the start of building a ﬂ exible recording kit. Available accessories from Sound Devices include:

• CL-1

Remote Control and Keyboard Interface used to control the 744T with an external keyboard.

• XL-DVDRAM

An external bus-powered FireWire DVD Multi-drive. Based on the slot-loading Panasonic UJ-85 drive mechanism the XL-DVDRAM is used with a 7-Series recorder to record directly to optical disk or as a post-record storage volume.

• CS-3

Production bag with shoulder strap, holds 744T and is compatible with PortaBrace RM accessories; mounts onto CS-442, CS-302, and CS4W mixer bags

• XL-1394

FireWire power ﬁ lter to eliminate noise induced from bus-powered FireWire drives into analog audio on the 744T

• XL-1A (sold as pair)

TA3F to TA3F cable, used to connect the direct outputs of the a Sound Devices 442 mixer to the channel 3/4 analog line-level inputs

• XL-2 (sold as pair)

TA3F to XLR-M cable, used for output connection from the master analog output

• XL-2F (sold as pair)

XLR-F to TA3F cable, used for input connection to line inputs 3 and 4 from balanced, XLR outputs.

• XL-BNC

BNC to BNC cable, to connect word clock from external sources to the 744T for synchronizing the 744T; also used to sync external devices from the word clock of the 744T.

• XL-LB2

5-pin LEMO to two (2) BNC, used to jam to and from video cameras.

• XL-LL

5-pin LEMO to 5-pin LEMO, used to connect the 744T time code circuit to Ambient time code sync boxes, slates, and controllers or to jam one 744T to another 744T; additionally used to jam Aaton cameras from the 744T

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 77

• XL-LX

5-pin LEMO to XLR-M and XLR-F, used to connect the time code output to SMTPE time code inputs and outputs

• XL-B2

removable, rechargeable, Li-ion battery; 4800 mAh battery; it’s good to have several spares

• XL-WPH

power adapter included with unit; 100–240 VAC input, 12 VDC output; it’s good to have a spare

Page 78

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Warranty and Technical Support

Warranty & Service

Sound Devices, LLC warrants the 744T Portable Audio Recorder against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of ONE (1) year from date of original retail purchase. This is a non-transferable warranty that extends only to the original purchaser. Sound Devices, LLC will repair or replace the product at its discretion at no charge. Warranty claims due to severe service conditions will be addressed on an individual basis. THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY OR UNDER ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY. Because some jurisdictions do not permit the exclusion or limitations set forth above, they may not apply in all cases.

For all service, including warranty repair, please contact Sound Devices for an RMA (return merchandise authorization) before sending your unit in for repair. Product returned without an RMA number may experience delays in repair. When sending a unit for repair, please do not include accesso-

ries, including CF cards, batteries, power supplies, carry cases, cables, or adapters unless instructed by Sound Devices.

Sound Devices, LLC Service Repair RMA #XXXXX 300 Wengel Drive Reedsburg, WI 53959 USA telephone: (608) 524-0625

Technical Support / Bug Reports

For technical support and bug reporting on all Sound Devices products contact:

Sound Devices, LLC E-mail: support@sounddevices.com web: www.sounddevices.com/contact_support.htm Telephone: +1 (608) 524-0625 / Toll-Free in the U.S.A.: (800) 505-0625 Fax: +1 (608) 524-0655

Sound Devices hosts a support forum for 7-Series recorders. The URL is:

www.sounddevicessupport.com

Sound Devices cannot guarantee that a given computer, software, or operating system conﬁ guration can be used satisfactorily with the 744T based exclusively on the fact that it meets our minimum system requirements.

Please check with your software editing application to make certain that it is compatible with the ﬁ le type selected.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 79

CE Declaration of Conformity

According to ISO/IEC Guide 22

Sound Devices, LLC 300 Wengel Drive Reedsburg, WI 53959 USA

declares that the product, 744T Professional Digital Audio Recorder is in conformity with and passes:

EN55103-1, 1997 EMC-product family standard for audio, video, audio-

visual and entertainment lighting control apparatus for professional use. Part 1: Emissions

EN55103-2, 1997 EMC-product family standard for audio, video, audio-

visual and entertainment lighting control apparatus for professional use. Part 2: Immunity

EN55103-1 Phenomena 2, 3, 1997

EN55103-2 Phenomena 3, 1997 Magnetic immunity 50 Hz to 10 kHz

CISPR 22 (EN55022) 2003 Radiated and conducted emissions, Class B

EN61000-4-2 (2001)/ IEC61000-4-2 (2001)

EN61000-4-3 (2001)/ IEC1000-4-3 (2001)

EN61000-4-4 (2001)/ IEC61000-4-4 (2001)

EN61000-4-5 (2001)/ IEC61000-4-5 (2001)

EN61000-4-6 (2001)/ IEC61000-4-6 (2001)

EN61000-4-11 (2002)/ IEC61000-4-11(2001)

Magnetic emissions at 1 meter 50 Hz – 50 kHz

ESD, ±4 kV contact, ±8 kV air discharge

Radiated RF immunity, 10 V/m, 80% 1 kHz amplitude modulation

AC power ports: EFT Burst, I/O lines, ±0.25 kV to ±1.0 kV, power line ±0.5 kB – ±1 kV

EFT Burst, I/O lines, ±0.25 kV to ±1.0 kV, power line ±0.5 kB – ±1 kV

Surge ±1 kV differential mode (line-to-line), ±2 kV common mode (line-to-ground)

Conducted RF immunity, 3 V, 80% @1 kHz amplitude modulation

Voltage dips and short interruptions at test voltage level: 0% V unominal @ 70% V unominal @ 25 period

Tested by L. S. Compliance, Inc. Cedarburg, Wisconsin November 19, 2004

Matthew Anderson Director of Engineering Sound Devices, LLC

Page 80

744T User Guide and Technical Information

Software License

End-user license agreement for Sound Devices 7-Series Embedded Software / Firmware

Important Read carefully: This Sound Devices, LLC end-user license agreement (“EULA”) is a legal agreement between you (either an individual or a single entity) and Sound Devices, LLC for the Sound Devices, LLC software product identiﬁ ed above, which includes computer software, embedded software, and may include associated media, printed materials, and “online” or electronic documentation (“SOFTWARE PRODUCT”). By using, installing, or copying the SOFTWARE PRODUCT, you agree to be bound by the terms of this EULA. If you do not agree to the terms of this EULA, do not use or install the SOFTWARE PRODUCT.

Software Product License

The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties, as well as other intellectual property laws and treaties. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is licensed, not sold.

Grant of license. This EULA grants you the following limited, non-exclusive rights: In consideration of payment of the licensee fee, Sound Devices, LLC, as licensor, grants to you, the licensee, a non-exclusive right to use this copy of a Sound Devices, LLC software program (hereinafter the “SOFTWARE”) on a single product and/or computer. All rights not expressly granted to licensee are reserved to Sound Devices, LLC.

Software ownership. As the licensee, you own the hardware on which the SOFTWARE is recorded or ﬁ xed. Sound Devices, LLC shall retain full and complete title to the SOFTWARE and all subsequent copies of the SOFTWARE, regardless of the media or form on or in which the original copies may exist. The license is not a sale of the original SOFTWARE.

Copyright. All rights, title, and copyrights in and to the SOFTWARE PRODUCT (including, but not limited to, any images, photographs, animations, video, audio, music, text, and “applets” incorporated into the SOFTWARE PRODUCT) and any copies of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT are owned by Sound Devices, LLC or its suppliers. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is protected by copyright laws and international treaty provisions. Therefore, you must treat the SOFTWARE PRODUCT like any other copyrighted material, except that you may make copies as only provided below. You may not copy the printed materials accompanying the SOFTWARE PRODUCT.

Restrictions on use. Licensee may not distribute copies of the SOFTWARE or accompanying materials to others. Licensee may not modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, or create derivative works based on the SOFTWARE or its accompanying printed or written materials.

Transfer restrictions. Licensee shall not assign, rent, lease, sell, sublicense, or otherwise transfer the SOFTWARE to another party without prior written consent of Sound Devices, LLC. Any party authorized by Sound Devices, LLC to receive the SOFTWARE must agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of this agreement.

Termination. Without prejudice to any other rights, Sound Devices, LLC may terminate this EULA if you fail to comply with the terms and conditions of this EULA. In such event, you must destroy all copies of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT and all of its component parts.

Limited Warranty

No warranties. Sound Devices, LLC expressly disclaims any warranty for the SOFTWARE PRODUCT. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT and any related documentation is provided “as is” without warranty or condition of any kind, either express or implied, including, without limitation, the implied warranties and conditions of merchantability, ﬁ tness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The entire risk arising out of use or performance of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT remains with you.

No liability for damages. In no event shall Sound Devices, LLC or its suppliers be liable for any damages whatsoever (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business proﬁ ts, business interruption, loss of business information, or any other pecuniary loss) arising out of the use of or inability to use this Sound Devices, LLC product, even if Sound Devices, LLC has been advised of the possibility of such damages. In any case, Sound Devices, LLC’s entire liability under any provision of this evaluation license shall be limited to the greater of the amount actually paid by you for the SOFTWARE PRODUCT or U.S. $5.00. Because some states/jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may not apply to you.

Governing Law

This agreement and limited warranty are governed by the laws of the state of Wisconsin.

v. 2.09 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Page 81

Page 82

702 rev. 2.09- Printed in U.S.A.