Zoom R8 User Manual

OPERATION MANUAL

© ZOOM Corporation

Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited.

precautions safety and Usage

Usage and safety precautions

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

In this manual, symbols are used to highlight warnings and cautions that you must read to prevent accidents.

The meanings of these symbols are as follows:

Something that could cause serious injury or death.

Something that could cause injury or damage to the equipment.

Other symbols

Required (mandatory) actions

Prohibited actions

Battery handling

Install the batteries with the correct +/– orientation.

Use a specified battery type. Do not mix new and old batteries or different brands or types at the same time.

When not using the unit for an extended period of time, remove the batteries from the unit. If a battery leak should occur, wipe the battery compartment and the battery terminals carefully to remove all battery residue.

Connecting cables with input and output jacks

Always turn the power OFF for all equipment before connecting any cables.

Always disconnect all connection cables and the AC adapter before moving the unit.

Volume

Do not use the product at a loud volume for a long time.

Warning

Operation using an AC adapter

Use only a ZOOM AD-17 AC adapter with this unit.

Do not use in ways that exceed the ratings of an outlet or wiring or with currents other than 100 V.

Before using this product in other countries (or regions) where the power voltage differs from AC 100 V, always consult with a store that handles ZOOM products and use a suitable AC adapter.

Operation using batteries

Use 4 conventional 1.5-volt AA batteries (alkaline or nickel-metal hydride).

Read battery warning labels carefully.

Always close the battery compartment cover when using the unit.

Alterations

Never open the case or attempt to modify the product.

Precautions

Product handling

Do not drop, bump or apply excessive force to the unit.

Be careful not to allow foreign objects or liquids to enter the unit.

Operating environment

Do not use in extremely high or low temperatures.

Do not use near heaters, stoves and other heat sources.

Do not use in very high humidity or near splashing water.

Do not use in places with excessive vibrations.

Do not use in places with excessive dust or sand.

AC adapter handling

When disconnecting the AC adapter from an outlet, always pull the body of the adapter itself.

During lightning storms or when not using the unit for a long time, disconnect the power plug from the AC outlet.

Usage Precautions

Interference with other electrical equipment

In consideration of safety, thehas been designed to minimize the emission of electromagnetic radiation from the device and to minimize external electromagnetic interference. However, equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves could result in interference if placed nearby. If this occurs, place theand the other device farther apart.

With any type of electronic device that uses digital control, including the, electromagnetic interference could cause malfunction, corrupt or destroy data and result in other unexpected trouble. Always use caution.

Cleaning

Use a soft cloth to clean the panels of the unit if they become dirty. If necessary, use a damp cloth that has been wrung out well.

Never use abrasive cleansers, wax or solvents, including alcohol, benzene and paint thinner.

Malfunction

If the unit becomes broken or malfunctions, immediately disconnect the AC adapter, turn the power OFF and disconnect other cables. Contact the store where you bought the unit or Zoom service with the following information: product model, serial number and specific symptoms of failure or malfunction, along with your name, address and telephone number.

Copyrights

Except for personal use, unauthorized recording of copyrighted sources, including CDs, records, tapes, video products and broadcasts, is prohibited. Zoom Corporation does not bear any responsibility for consequences related to copyright law infringement.

•The SD and SDHC symbols are trademarks.

•Windows® and Windows Vista® are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft®.

•Macintosh® and Mac OS® are trademarks or registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

•Steinberg and Cubase are trademarks or registered trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH Inc.

•All other trademarks, product names and company names mentioned in this documentation are the property of their respective owners.

•All trademarks and registered trademarks mentioned in this manual are for identification purposes only and are not intended to infringe on the copyrights of their respective owners.

2

Introduction	Please read through this manual carefully in order to understand the functions of the	well
	After reading through this manual, please keep it along with the warranty in a safe place.
	so that you can use it happily for many years.

Please note that some details might be changed without notice in order to improve the product.

Thank you very much for purchasing the ZOOM , which we will refer to as the in this manual. Thehas the following features.

■■Multitrack recorder that can use up to 32 GB

SDHC cards

Thecan is an 8-track recorder that supports SDHC cards of up to 32 GB. After making linear PCM recordings (WAV format) at 16/24-bit and 44.1/48kHz sampling rate, you can transfer recorded files to your computer to use them in DAW software.

■■Hi-Speed USB 2.0 audio interface

You can use theand its various input and output jacks as a Hi-speed USB 2.0 audio interface that can handle 2 inputs and 2 outputs at up to 24-bit and 96 kHz. Its effects can even be used (at 44.1 kHz only) and it can also operate using USB bus power.

(See the Audio Interface Manual on the included SD card for details.)

■■DAW software control surface

Thecan be connected to a computer by USB cable and used as a control surface for DAW software. You can operate transport functions, including play, record and stop keys

and physically control onscreen faders. You can also assign various DAW functions to the F1–F5 function keys. (The assignable functions depend on the DAW software.)

(See the Audio Interface Manual on the included SD card for details.)

■■Handles a variety of input sources including guitars, microphones and line-level equipment

Thehas 2 input jacks that accept both XLR and standard phone connectors. Both can supply phantom power (24 or 48 V) and one can handle high-impedance input. In addition to highimpedance guitars and basses, the inputs can handle all types of sources, including dynamic and condenser microphones, synthesizers and other line level instruments. The built-in highperformance microphones are convenient for recording acoustic guitars and vocals.

(See “Connecting instruments” on P.21.)

■■Sampler with 8 pads and 8 voices

Use the sampler to assign sounds to each track (pad) and create loops. Play the pads in realtime, and combine loops to create performances for a complete song. By simply lining up drum loops from the included SD card, anyone can easily create professional-quality backing parts and basic tracks. The recorder and sampler work together seamlessly, so you can record audio on other tracks while listening to loop playback.

(See “Using the sampler to make songs” on P.60.)

Introduction

Confirmation of included items

The package contains the following items. Please verify them.

unit	SD card	USB cable	AC adapter
			(ZOOM AD-17)
Cubase LE	Operation manual		Cubase LE
Installation DVD	(this document)		Startup Guide
			Note: the Audio Interface Manual (PDF) is on the SD card.

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. . . . 4

. . . . 6

. . . . 8

Contents

Contents

Usage and safety precautions . . 2 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Confirmation of included items. . . . . 3

Contents . . . . . . . . .

Panel layout and functions Switch and key overview .

Display information . . . . . . . 9 Operation overview. . . . . . . 10

Connections. . . . . . . . . . . 12

SD card installation. . . . . . . 13 Powering the unit. . . . . . . . 14 Turning the power on and off . . 15 Setting the date and time

Recording and playback . . . .	16
Recorder overview . . . . . . . .	. 16
Preparations before recording . . . .	17
Creating a new project . . . . . . .	17
Changing the time signature . . . . . .	18
Setting the tempo . . . . . . . . . .	19

Using the metronome. . . . . . . . 20

Recording the first track . . . . . . . 21

Connecting instruments . . . . . . . 21 Adjusting the input gain . . . . . . . 22 Using insert effects . . . . . . . . 23 Adjusting the recording level. . . . . . 24

Selecting tracks for recording . . . . . 25

Recording. . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Re-recording. . . . . . . . . . . 26

Recording to a new file. . . . . . . 27 Playing back recordings . . . . . . . 27

Overdubbing . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Stereo recording (stereo link) . . . . . 29 Changing playback takes . . . . . . 30 Swapping two tracks . . . . . . . . 31 Re-recording part of a track

(punch-in/out). . . . . . . . . . . 31

Manual punch-in/out . . . . . . . . 32 Automatic punch-in/out . . . . . . . 33

Combining multiple tracks into

1–2 tracks (bouncing) . . . . . . . . 34 Locating to the desired part of a song . 36 Repeat playback of a specific section

(A-B repeat) . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Mixing . . . . . . . . . . . .	.	40
Mixing overview . . . . . . . . .		. 40
Setting track level, EQ and pan. . . .		42
Using send-return effects . . . . .	.	44
Using insert effects on tracks . . . .	.	45
Mixing down . . . . . . . . . .		46
Using a mastering effect. . . . . .	.	46
Mixing down to the master track . .	.	47
Using the rhythm function . .	.	48
Overview of rhythm functions. . . .	.	48
Rhythm pattern selection . . . . .	.	49
Changing the playback pattern . . .	.	49
Changing the drum kit . . . . . .	.	49
Using the pads to play rhythm patterns		. 50
Switching banks . . . . . . . .	.	50
Repeating sounds (drum rolls) . . . .		. 50
Adjusting the pad sensitivity . . . .	.	49
Assigning rhythm patterns to tracks . .		51
Creating a rhythm pattern. . . . . .		52
Preparing to create a rhythm pattern. . . 52
Inputting a pattern in real-time . . . .	.	53
Step input of a rhythm pattern. . . .	.	54
Copying rhythm patterns . . . . .	.	55
Deleting rhythm patterns . . . . .	.	56
Renaming rhythm patterns . . . . .	.	57
Importing rhythm patterns from

other projects. . . . . . . . . . . 58 Setting volume and stereo placement. . 59

4

Using the sampler . . . . . . .	60
Using the sampler to make songs. . . 60
Using the sampler . . . . . . . .	. 61
Assigning included drum loops to tracks	63
Setting loops . . . . . . . . . . .	64
Setting a track to loop . . . . . . .	64
Setting the loop interval . . . . . .	. 65
Playing the pads. . . . . . . . . .	66
Setting the playback method. . . . .	66
Set global quantization to
control sound timing. . . . . . . .	66
Changing the BPM of a track . . . .	. 67
Changing audio tempo without
changing pitch . . . . . . . . . .	68
Trimming unnecessary parts of audio files 70
Setting fade-ins and fade-outs . . . .	71
Using the track sequencer. . . .	72
Track sequencer overview . . . . .	. 72
Creating a sequence . . . . . . .	. 73
Creating a sequence in real-time . . .	. 73
Creating a sequence using step input . .	74
Inserting and deleting beats . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Playing back a sequence . . . . . .	78
Using effects . . . . . . . . . .	80
Overview of effects. . . . . . . . .	80
Selecting effect patches. . . . . . .	83
Editing patches . . . . . . . . . . 84
Saving patches. . . . . . . . . .	86
Importing patches from other projects .	87
Changing patch names . . . . . .	. 88
Using effects only for monitoring . . .	89

Working with projects and

audio files . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Projects and audio files . . . . . . . 90 Protecting a project . . . . . . . . 91 Selecting a project . . . . . . . . . 91 Viewing project and audio file information 92 Copying projects and audio files. . . . 93 Changing project and audio file names . 94 Deleting projects and audio files. . . . 95 Dividing audio files . . . . . . . . . 96 Setting the recording format (bit length) . 97 Setting the recording mode . . . . . 97 Sequential playback of projects . . . . 98 Loading audio files from other projects . 100

Using the USB connection. . . 102

USB function overview . . . . . . . 102 Exchanging data with a computer

(card reader). . . . . . . . . . . 103

Audio interface and

control surface functions . . . . . . 105

Other functions . . . . . . . . 108

Using the tuner. . . . . . . . . . 108 Adjusting the display . . . . . . . 109 Changing the SD card while

the power is on. . . . . . . . . . 110

Formatting an SD card . . . . . . . 111 Checking remaining card capacity . . 111 Setting the battery type . . . . . . 112 Setting phantom power voltage . . . 112 Using a footswitch . . . . . . . . 113 Checking the firmware version . . . . 114 Upgrading the firmware . . . . . . 114

Rhythm pattern list . . . . . . 116 Effect types and parameters . . 118 Effect patch list. . . . . . . . . 129 Error message list . . . . . . . 135 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . 136 Specifications . . . . . . . . . 137

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Contents

5

functions and layout Panel

Panel layout and functions

Input section

Display section

Control section

Built-in mic Fader section Transport section Built-in mic

Rear panel

PHONES control	INPUT jacks
POWER switch	OUTPUT control

	PHONES jack
CONTROL IN jack	OUTPUT jack

Right side panel

Bottom panel (not shown)

Battery compartment

SD card slot				USB port

6

Input section				Display section
PEAK indicator		METRONOME switch			Display
Input selection	Input selection	PHANTOM
switch 1	switch 2	switch

						Soft keys
Control section
EFFECT key		TOOL key
	USB key			PROJECT key

GAIN controls 1 & 2

						BALANCE control
		ON/OFF key 1		ON/OFF key 2
ON/OFF indicator

TEMPO key			TRACK key
	RHYTHM key			PAN/EQ key

TEMPO indicator

Fader section

Transport section

Track indicator

AUTO PUNCH I/O key

MARKER

key

MARK/CLEAR key

Status keys

A-B REPEAT key

MARKER

key

(1–8, MASTER)

Master

indicator

					REW key		FF key		STOP key

					PLAY key	REC key

ENTER key

Faders

(1–8, MASTER)

			REPEAT/STOP key			EXIT key		DIAL
Pad				Cursor keys

functions and layout Panel

7

overview key and Switch

Switch and key overview

Here we explain how to use the keys and switches of the.

Transport section

		Functions only when tracks are in
		recording standby.
	REC key	• Stopped: starts recording standby
		• Recording standby: ends standby
		• Playing: starts recording (manual
		punch-in/out)
		• Stopped: starts playback
	PLAY key	• Recording standby: starts
		recording
		• During recording: stops recording
	STOP key	• During playback: stops playback
		• Recording standby: stops
		transport
	FF key	• When stopped or during playback:
		fast forwards
		• When stopped or during playback:
		rewinds
		• Hold STOP and press REW to
	REW key	return to the top of the song.
		+
	ENTER key	• Confirm an item
		• Press to go back.
	EXIT key	• Press and hold to return to the top
		screen.
	DIAL	• Change numbers and move
		among menus.
		• Set, remove and move to marks
		• Set and cancel auto punch-in/out
		and A-B repeat
	Cursor appearance
		In manual	On unit
	Manual indications
	Move in	In explanations, the usable
		directions are shown with
	menu	dark lines.

The cursors are used to move up, down, left and right to choose items. They are shown as above in the manual.

Control section

		EFFECT key	• Set the insert and sendreturn
			effects
		USB key	• Use the audio interface, control
			surface and card reader
		TOOL key	• Make metronome, tuner, system
			and SD card settings
PROJECT			• Create, set up and work with
		PROJECT key
			projects
		TEMPO key	• Set the tempo (the indicator
			flashes in time with the tempo)
		RHYTHM key	• Play, create and set rhythm
			patterns
		TRACK key	• Assign tracks and make settings
		PAN/EQ key	• Access track mixer settings

Fader section

					Change track status and
				TRACK 1–8	check with indicator
					Green: play	• Unlit: mute
				status keys	Red: record
					Orange: loop track or rhythm
					pattern track playing back
					Change master track status
				MASTER	and check with indicator
				status key	• Green: play	• Unlit: master
					• Red: mix down

Input section

		Input selection	• Set for the instrument or mic used
		switch 1
		Input selection	• Set for the instrument or mic used
		switch 2
		PHANTOM switch	• Phantom power ON/OFF
			• Set metronome output
		METRONOME switch	When set to PHONES ONLY,
			BALANCE control adjusts the
		BALANCE control
			performance/metronome
			balance
		GAIN controls 1, 2	• Set input sensitivity
			• Indicator lights when input level
		PEAK indicators
			begins causing distortion
		ON/OFF key 1, 2	• Turn input ON/OFF
			• Indicator flashes when recording
		Indicators
			level begins causing distortion)

8

Display information

The display shows, for example, project data, connection and operation status as a recorder or a computer audio-interface, available functions and various menus.

Display and screen information

Top Screen: Shows the current project

Icon display area

Project name

Mark indicator & number

Level meters (from left) Input 1, 2 level meters Track 1–8 level meters Master level meters

Soft keys

Hours: minutes: seconds: milliseconds

(Change with up/down keys) Bar–beat–tick

Menu screen: Shows an operation menu

Menu item or track number

Press ENTER key to open the next menu

Use DIAL to select settings and values Select menu with up/down keys

Icon display and settings

Insert effect icon	(P.23, 45, 46, 80)
Shown when insert effect enabled.
	To set:
REVERB/CHORUS	(P.44, 80, 82)
send-return icons
Shown when send-return effects	To set:
enabled.
AUTO PUNCH IN/OUT	(P.33)
icons
Shown when auto punch-in/out
enabled.	To set:
A-B REPEAT icon	(P.38)
Shown when A-B repeat enabled.
	To set:
PROTECT icon	(P.91)
Shown when project protection
enabled.
	To set:
Battery icon	(P.14)
Shown when using battery power
(including remaining charge and
when battery needs changed). (Not
shown when running on USB.)

Soft keys

The functions of the soft keys appear at the bottom of the display. Press the key under the indication to use that function.

information Display

9

overview Operation

Operation overview

1. Recording preparations

Do the following before starting recording.

Preparing to record	P.17

●● To start a new song, make a project first.

•Creating a new project (P.17)

●● Set the song's time signature and tempo.

•Setting the time signature (P.18)

•Setting the tempo (P.19)

●● Set the metronome to use as a guide when recording.

•Using the metronome (P.20)

2. Recording

Record an instrument, vocal or other sound source to each track. You can also assign audio file loops using the sampler function and rhythm

Recording the first track	P.21

Record instruments and vocals to tracks in the project that you created.

●● Connect instruments and mics, and adjust the input sensitivity.

•Connecting instruments (P.21)

•Adjusting the input gain (P.22)

•Recording in stereo (stereo link) (P.29)

●● Select tracks to record on and record.

•Selecting tracks for recording (P.25)

•Recording (P.26)

●● You can use the following types of effects when recording.

•Using insert effects (P.23)

•Applying effects only for monitoring (P.89)

●● You can also redo part or all of a recording.

•Undoing the last action (UNDO/REDO) (P.26)

•Recording part of a song again (punching in/out) (P.32)

Using the sampler	P.60

●● Assign audio files to tracks and set loops.

•Assigning included drum loops to tracks (P.63)

•Make loop settings (P.64)

Using rhythm functions	P.48

●● Assign rhythm patterns to tracks.

•Assigning rhythm patterns to tracks (P.51)

10

patterns using the rhythm machine function to tracks, and arrange them in performance order using the track sequencer function.

Playback P.27

Playback instruments, vocals and other recorded sounds.

●● Play back from any position and loop any interval that you want

•Move to a point in a song (locate) (P.36)

•Repeat playback of a specific section (A-B repeat) (P.38)

●● Change a take (audio file assigned to

atrack).

•Changing playback takes (P.30)

Overdubbing P.28

While playing back the recorded track, you can record (overdub) additional instruments and vocals to other tracks.

Bouncing tracks	P.34

●● If you run out of tracks, you can bounce them to reduce the number.

•Combining multiple tracks into 1-2 tracks (bouncing) (P.34)

Using sequencer functions	P.72

●● Arrange loop tracks and rhythm pattern tracks in order to make performance data (sequence data) for one song.

•Creating sequence data (P.73)

•Playing back sequence data (P.78)

3. Mixing and mix down

After recording and preparing tracks, you can mix them and then make a stereo master track.

On the

Mixing	P.40

Balance the tracks and set the effects used on them (mixing).

●● Adjust the balance of the tracks.

•Setting volume, EQ and pan (P.42)

●● You can apply the following types of effects to each track.

•Applying send-return effects (P.44)

•Using insert effects on tracks (P.45)

Mixing down to stereo	P.46

You can rerecord multiple tracks as a final stereo master track (mix down).

●● When mixing down, you can apply the following types of effects.

•Applying mastering effects (P.46)

●● Mix down the song to stereo.

•Mixing down to master tracks (P.47)

On a computer

By connecting the unit to a computer using a USB cable, you can use it as an audio interface, control surface and card reader. Doing so, you can use DAW software, for example, to mix and master your tracks.

•Audio interface/control surface (P.105)

•Exchanging data with a computer

(card reader) (P.103)

Please see the Audio Interface Manual on the included SD card for information about the audio interface.

overview Operation

11

Connections

Connections

Refer to the illustration below to connect instruments, mics, other audio equipment and a computer, for example.

Outputs

Headphones

Stereo systems, speakers with built-in amplifiers, etc.

Inputs

Connect cables with XLR or phone plugs (mono/stereo, balanced/

unbalanced) to the INPUT jacks.

Microphones

•Connect a mic toINPUT 1 or 2.

•Set the input selection switch to

MIC LINE.

•Set the PHANTOM switch to ON to supply phantom power to a condenser mic.

Devices with stereo outputs When using a synthesizer, a CD

player or other stereo devices:

•Connect OUTPUT jack L to

INPUT 1 and R to INPUT 2.

•Set both input selection switches to MIC LINE.

Guitar/bass

To connect a passive electric guitar or bass directly:

•Connect it to INPUT 1.

•Set input selection switch 1 to

GUITAR BASS (Hi-Z).

Built-in microphones

Use the built-in mics on the left and right of the unit to record drums or a band performance, for example.

•Set both input selection switches (1 for left and2 for right) to BUILT-IN MIC.

Rear panel

FOOTSWITCH

Connect a ZOOM

FS01 footswitch (sold separately), and use it

to stop/start playback or punch-in/out, for example.

AC adapter Only use a ZOOM

AD-17 AC adapter, which is designed for use with this unit.

Right side panel

Computer USB port connections When connected to a computer, you

can transfer audio files with it, for

example. You can also use the as an audio interface and a control

surface for DAW software.

12

SD card installation

saves recording data and settings on SD cards.

To protect your data, turn the power off before inserting or ejecting a card. An SD card is necessary for recording.

Turn the power OFF and insert (ordinary use)

1Turn the POWER OFF and remove the SD card slot cover.

2Insert an SD card that is not writeprotected into the slot completely. To eject, push the card in first.

Unlock write-protection

NOTE

If you want to change the SD card while the power is ON, you must follow special procedures. (P.110)

When inserting or removing an SD card, always turn the power OFF. Doing so when the power is ON could cause recording data to be lost.

If you cannot insert a card into the slot, you might be trying to insert it in the wrong direction or upside down. Do not force the card. Try again with the correct orientation. Forcing the card in could break it.

format an SD card that was used with a or a digital camera, for example, in the

before using it.

If no SD card is inserted, the REC key will not function in Recorder Mode.

If a message appears

“No Card”: No SD card is detected. Make sure an SD card is inserted properly

“Card Protected”: The SD card is write-protected. Slide the lock switch away from the lock position to disable write-protection.

HINT

This unit can use 16 MB–2 GB SD cards and 4–32 GB SDHC cards.

You can find the most recent information about compatible SD cards on the ZOOM website. http://www.zoom.co.jp

Preventing SD card theft

Remove the screw near the slot, and screw it into the hole in the SD card cover.

Reference:
Changing SD cards with the power on	P.110
Formatting SD cards	P.111

installation card SD

13

unit the Powering

Powering the unit

Use the included AC Adapter or four AA batteries (sold separately) to power the unit.

Using ordinary power (included AC adapter)

1Turn the power OFF, and then plug the USB cable into the USB port on the right side of the unit.

2Connect the other end of the USB cable to the AC adapter and plug the adapter into a power outlet.

Always use the included AC adapter (ZOOM AD-17), which is designed for use with the unit. Using any other adapter could damage the unit.

HINT

Power supply from USB

●● When used with a computer connected by a USB cable, the computer supplies power to the unit.

Using batteries

1Turn the power OFF and open the battery case cover on the bottom of the unit.

2Installcover. the batteries and close the

Battery indicator on screen		Battery power
No indicator	Indicator on	status

AC adapter	Batteries
in use	in use	Batteries must be
		changed.
		Power will turn OFF.

NOTE

●● Always turn the power OFF when you open or close the battery cover or connect or disconnect the AC adapter. Doing so when the power is ON might cause recording data to be lost.

●● The unit can use alkaline or NiMH batteries. The approximate operation time when using alkaline batteries is about 5.5 hours.

●● Replace the batteries when "Low Battery!" is shown. Turn the POWER switch to OFF immediately and install new batteries or connect the included AC adapter.

●● Set the battery type to increase the accuracy of the remaining battery charge indicator.

Reference: Setting the battery type

P.112

14

Turning the power on & off/Setting the date & time

Follow these precautions for starting-up and shutting down the unit.

Follow these instruction to set the date and time for files and data.

Turning the power on and off

1)Make sure all the equipment is OFF.

2)Confirm that the power, the instruments and the monitoring system (or headphones) are correctly connected.

Turn the power ON to start the unit

1

Slide to ON

2In order, turn connected instruments and the monitoring system ON.

Turn the power OFF to shut down the unit

1

Slide to OFF

NOTE

●●	the POWER ON, turn down
	PHONES and OUTPUT controls and
	volume on monitors and
	devices.
●● If no power is supplied		for more
	than a minute, the DATE/TIME setting will

be reset to the default value.

Setting the date and time

TOOL > SYSTEM > DATE/TIME

1	Press
2	Select SYSTEM.	Change menu
		Press
3	Select DATE/TIME.	Change menu
		Press

4Select the date and time units and set their values in order.

YEAR → MONTH → DAY → (hours) → (minutes) → (seconds)

Change unit

	Change value
5 Select OK.	Move cursor

Press

If this message appears

•The DATE/TIME setting has been set to its default value. Set the DATE/TIME again.

time & date the off/Setting & on power the Turning

15

playback and Recording

Recorder overview

The	is an 8-track recorder that can record up to 2 tracks at the same time and play back up
to 8 tracks at the same time. The following types of tracks are used.
	Track type	Function	Reference
Audio track		Plays its audio file from beginning to end.	–
Loop track		Plays part of an audio file repeatedly.	Using the sampler function (P.60)
Rhythm pattern track		Plays a rhythm pattern.	Using the rhythm function (P.48)

Track 1
WAV
Audio track
WAV	Track mixer
Loop track
	MASTER
Rhythm pattern track	fader
Track 8
WAV
Audio track
WAV	Track mixer
Loop track
Rhythm pattern track

Types of recording files

Depending on the recording destination track, the creates the following types of audio files.

•Mono track: mono WAV file

•Stereo linked track: stereo WAV file

The file format depends on the project and bit length settings.

Reference: Changing the recording format

P.97

Types of playback files

Both mono and stereo WAV files can be assigned toaudio and loop tracks. (A file cannot be assigned to a project, however, if its sampling rate is different from that of the project.)

Audio files created in DAW software can also be played by the.

There is no limit to the number of virtual tracks. Any audio file in the same project can be assigned to a track.

When a stereo file is assigned to a track, stereo link is turned on automatically.

16

Preparations before recording

With you can manage each song as a "project."

Before starting to record a new song, create a project first, and adjust the time signature (default: 4/4) and tempo (default: 120.0) as necessary.

You can also set the metronome as you wish to use as a guide during recording.

Creating a new project

the same settings as the previous project and set the sampling rate.

1	Press
2	Select NEW.	Change menu
		Press
3	Select NAME.	Change menu
		Press
4	Change the name as needed.
		Move cursor
		Delete
		character
		Insert
		character
		character
		Press
	Set whether or not to continue using
5	the previous settings.	Change menu

setting

	6	Set the sampling rate.
		Change menu

7 Select EXECUTE.

Change menu

Press

NOTE

●● You can continue to use the settings and values of the last project in the new one.

Settings carried over with Continue

BIT LENGTH settings

INSERT EFFECT settings

Send-return EFFECT settings

Track status (PLAY/MUTE/REC) settings

BOUNCE settings

Track parameter settings

METRONOME settings

Reset

Default settings are used for each item.

The RATE can also be set to a sampling rate that is suitable for DVD audio.

RATE: sampling rate settings

44.1 kHz	Standard (default)
48.0 kHz	For DVD audio, etc.

When set to 48 kHz, effects cannot be used.

playback and Recording

17

playback and Recording

Changing the time signature

Use the track sequencer to set the time signature. The default is 4/4. Follow these steps to change to a different time signature.

1	Press
2	Select TRK SEQ.	Change menu
		Press

3Start step input.

Press

4Move the cursor to where you want to change the time signature.

Move cursor

Go back 1 step

Go forward 1 step

cursor at the beginning to change the time signature for the whole song, or at the point where you want to change it in the middle of the song.

5Move to the time signature area and change the setting.

Move between areas

Highlighted

Change setting

Time signature options

Setting
1/4–8/4	Default: 4/4

6Complete the setting. Press

Delete an inserted time signature

1Move the cursor to where you want to delete the time signature.

Move cursor

Go back 1 step

Go forward 1 step

2	Move to the time signature area
	Move between areas
	Highlighted

3Press beneath .

18

Setting the tempo

1 Press

2	the dial to change the
	setting.

OR

repeatedly and the average tempo will be detected and set.

Tempo setting range

40.0–250.0	Default: 120.0

NOTE

●● The tempo setting is saved for each project.

playback and Recording

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playback and Recording

Using the metronome

You can change the volume, tone and stereo position of the metronome and use its pre-count function. You can also set it to only be heard through headphones.

1Press

2 Select METRONOME.

Change menu

Press

3Select each menu item and adjust the settings.

Change menu

Change setting

HINT

Use the METRONOME switch to change and adjust the metronome output.

OUTPUT + PHONES

The metronome sound is output through both OUTPUT and PHONES jacks.

PHONES ONLY

The metronome sound is output only through the PHONES jack.

Use the BALANCE knob to adjust the relative volumes of the MASTER fader signal and the metronome sound.

MASTER CLICK

(metronome)

Metronome settings are saved for each project. You can use the metronome even when playing back the master track.

Menu settings and setting values

ON/OFF: Set when operative

Settings
Play Only	During playback only
Rec Only	During recording only
Play & Rec	During both playback and recording
Off (default)	No metronome sound
LEVEL: Set the volume
Setting range
0–100	Default: 50
PAN: Set the stereo position
Setting range
L100 – R100	Default: Center
SOUND: Set the sound
Settings
Bell (default)	Click with bell accent
Click	Click sound only
Stick	Drum stick sound
Cowbell	Cowbell
Hi-Q	Synthesized click sound
Track1 – Track8	TRACK 1–8 sound (mono)
Track1/2 – Track7/8	TRACK 1/2–7/8 sound (stereo)
PRE COUNT: Set the count-in length
Settings
Off	None (default)
1–8	Enable pre-count sound for
	1–8 beats.
Special

NOTE

●● Be aware that if the metronome volume is set high, the accented beat of some sounds might become difficult to distinguish.

●● If a track with a rhythm pattern assigned to it is selected in the SOUND setting, no sound will be output.

●● The metronome follows the time signature used in the track sequencer.

20

Recording the first track

After preparation, ready the recorder and start recording the first track in a project that you have created. Connect an instrument, record it and play back the recording. You can also apply various effects (insert) during recording.

Connecting instruments

Connect a high impedance instrument to INPUT 1, and the set the input switch to GUITAR BASS (Hi-Z).

INPUT 1

Connect to INPUT 1

Connecting low impedance instruments

Connect a low impedance instrument to INPUT 1 or 2 and set its INPUT switch to MIC LINE.

Using phantom power

Connect a mic to an INPUT (1 or 2), and set that INPUT switch to MIC LINE. Then, set the

PHANTOM switch to ON.

INPUT 1, 2

Supply phantom power to connected mics

Using the built-in mics

To use the left built-in mic set switch 1 to BUILT-IN MIC. To use the right built-in mic set switch 2 to BUILT-IN MIC.

Connect to INPUT 1 and/or 2

For a stereo instrument, connect its left output to Built-in mic signals on INPUT 1 and/or 2 INPUT 1 and its right output to INPUT 2.

NOTE

The total recordable time depends on the recording format and SD/SDHC card capacity. The table below shows times in hours and minutes.

Recording format			SD/SDHC card capacity
	1 GB	2 GB	4 GB	8 GB	16 GB	32 GB
16-bit/44.1 kHz	3:07	6:14	12:28	24:56	49:53	99:46
16-bit/48 kHz	2:51	5:43	11:27	22:55	45:50	91:40
24-bit/44.1 kHz	2:04	4:09	8:18	16:37	33:15	66:30
24-bit/48 kHz	1:54	3:49	7:38	15:16	30:33	61:06

●● Times are estimates for mono (1-track) recording. Times are halved for stereo (2-track) recording.

●● The maximum continuous recording time, regardless of the number of recording tracks, is about 6 hours for 16-bit/44.1 kHz WAV format and about 4 hours for 24-bit/44.1 kHz WAV format.

playback and Recording

21

playback and Recording

Adjusting the input gain

1Push the INPUT ON/OFF switch for the connected input to turn it on, lighting the indicator red.

When red, input is possible

2Adjust the input GAIN.

	Adjust the
	input gain
Make
noise!	Adjust so it does not light when
	maximum volume is input

NOTE

●● The PEAK indicator turns red when the signal exceeds the maximum detectable level of 0 dB, resulting in input clipping.

●● If clipping happens, the recorded sound will be distorted, so you should reduce the recording level.

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Using insert effects

1		Press
2	Press	below	.
3	Select ON/OFF and set it to ON.
			Change menu

	Change setting
4	Select an algorithm and patch.
	Change menu

Algorithm or patch

5Select INPUT SRC and then set the connected input.

Change menu

Set the input source

6Press to return to the top screen.

7Adjust the recording level.

0 dB

an insert effect, adjust the recording level so that the level meters do not touch the 0 dB mark and the input section ON/OFF switch indicators do not blink (see the following page).

NOTE

●● For more information about algorithms, patches and insert effects, see the "Guide to using effects" on P.80.

●● You can also use insert effects just for monitoring while recording the unaffected signals. (See "Using effects only for monitoring" on P.89.)

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23

playback and Recording

Adjusting the recording level

1Press

2Press for an INPUT to adjust its recording level.

3Select REC LEVEL and adjust the recording level.

Change menu

Change

setting

Set the recording level so that the ON/ OFF switch indicator does not blink.

24

Selecting tracks for recording

1destination track until it lights red.

2

Set both the MASTER and

recording track faders to 0 dB

once, and then raise them to

adjust the monitoring volume of

the instrument being recorded.

NOTE

●● The relationship between inputs and tracks is as follows.

•When one track is selected

Recorder

Track

Recorder

Track

two/stereo tracks are selected

Recorder

Track

Track

Recorder

Odd track

Even track

playback and Recording

25

playback and Recording

Recording

1Return to the beginning of the song (time counter).

Press and holdand press to return to the beginning.

Top screen

Counter at beginning of song (mark 00)

2 Arm the track for recording. Press

3 Start recording.

Press

green

Counter starts

4 Stop recording.

Press

green

Counter stops but does not return to beginning

Re-recording

If you record again on the same track, the previously recorded file will be overwritten. However, you can also use the UNDO function to erase the previous recording.

Moreover, you can also keep the previous file and record a second take in a separate file.

HINT

●● You can set whether when recording previous recordings are overwritten or saved and a new recording made. (See "Setting the recording mode" on P.97.)

Redoing the previous recording (UNDO and REDO functions)

use the UNDO and REDO functions to re-record. Use the UNDO function to erase the recording and restore the unit to the previous state.

You can also use REDO to cancel the UNDO operation.

beneath to UNDO.

beneath to REDO.

NOTE

●● The UNDO function only affects audio data recorded on a track.

●● UNDO can only be used to go back one recording step. Undoing more than one step is not possible.

26

Recording to a new file

1 Press

2Selectfile. the track for recording the new

Select track

	3	Select TAKE.
		Change menu
		Press
	4	Select FILE.
		Change menu
		Press
	5	Select New Take.
		Select file

Press

HINT

●● “TAKE” shows the file name. File names are assigned automatically in order starting with "MONO-000.WAV" (for a stereo track "STE-000.WAV") followed by "MONO-001. WAV", "MONO-002.WAV" and so on. File names can be changed as necessary. (See "Changing project and audio file names" on P.94.)

Playing back recordings

1Press the status key for the recording destination track until it lights green.

Playback track Press 1-2 times

until lit green

Ready to PLAY when green

2Return to the beginning of the song.

Press REW while pressing and holding STOP to return to the beginning.

3Start playback.

Press

Lit green

4Stop playback.

Press		Lit green

NOTE

●● When the REC MODE is set to Overwrite, the recorded audio file will be overwritten on the track. If you return to the beginning of the song and record, the previous recording will be overwritten, so be careful. When a track is ready to PLAY, the file on it will be played back.

HINT

●● You can change the playback file to a different take. ("Changing the playback take" on P.30.)

playback and Recording

27

playback and Recording

Overdubbing

After "Recording the first track," you can record (overdub) other instruments on other tracks while playing back the already recorded audio.

Playing an already recorded track

Press the status key for the track to playback 1–2 times until its indicator lights green.

Press for the track to playback until it lights green

Lit green: ready to PLAY

Overdubbing

After preparing the already recorded track for playback, follow the instructions in "Recording the first track" (P.21) from "Connecting instruments" to "Recording" to record other tracks.

HINT

●● If you want to record on a track that has already been recorded on, assign the recorded file to another track to make the target track empty. Refer to "Changing the playback take" (P.30).

●● You can also swap recorded tracks with unrecorded tracks. Refer to "Swapping two tracks" on (P.31).

●● To make a new recording on the same track used for the first recording, you must swap tracks.

●● To record to a new file, set the track to New Take. (Refer to "Recording to a new file" on P.27.)

Playing back all tracks

1Press the status keys for the tracks to playback 1–2 times until their indicators light green.

Press for the tracks to playback until they light green

Lit green: ready to PLAY

2Press and hold and press to return to the beginning.

3 Press to start playback.

green

4 Press to stop playback.

green

NOTE

●● When you move files on tracks, confirm that tracks to be recorded on are set to “New Take” so that no files are assigned to them.

●● If there is a file assigned to a track, that recording will be overwritten by new recording.

●● When the REC MODE is set to Overwrite, the recorded audio file will be overwritten on the track. If you return to the beginning of the song and record, the previous recording will be overwritten, so be careful. When a track is ready to PLAY, the file on it will be played back.

28

Stereo recording (stereo link)

Enable stereo links to treat two adjacent tracks (1/2, 3/4, 5/6 and 7/8) as stereo tracks.

When stereo link is set to ON, INPUT 1 and 2 can be used together for stereo input and recorded to a stereo track. When recording to a stereo track, a stereo WAV file is created.

Stereo link

PAN/EQ > ST LINK

Press

2 Select a track.

Select track

3 Select ST LINK.

Change menu

4Select On.

Tracks with a stereo link are shown this way

On/Off

HINT

●● Stereo link changes the setting from two mono tracks to one stereo track.

●● Whatever track number you choose, an adjacent track will be linked. You cannot change these combinations.

●● To adjust the volume of a stereo track, use the odd number fader. The even number fader has no effect. Use the pan parameter to adjust their relative volume balance.

●● Stereo files can be assigned to stereo linked tracks. The left channel is on the odd track and the right is on the even track.

Stereo recording

ON/OFF switches to turn them on, lighting their indicators red.

2Adjust the input GAIN.

	Adjust the
Make	input gain
noise!	Adjust so it does not light when
	maximum volume is input

3Press a status key of the stereo linked tracks 1–2 times until both indicators light red.

	Lit red: ready to record
4				Set the MASTER and recording
				track faders to 0 dB and then
				use them to adjust the moni-
				toring level of the instrument
				being recorded.

5Follow the procedures in the "Recording" section (P.26) of "Recording the first track" to record.

●● The left channel is recorded on the odd track and the right on the even track.

NOTE

●● If stereo link is turned on for a track that has a mono file assigned to it, that file assignment will be canceled.

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29

playback and Recording

Changing playback takes

You can assign audio files to tracks freely.

By recording multiple takes of vocals, guitar solos and other parts in different files, you can later select and use the best takes (as though using virtual tracks).

1

2

3

4

5

Press

Select the track to assign.

Select track

Select TAKE.

Change menu

Press For an audio file, select FILE.

Change menu

Press

Select the audio file.

Select the file or pattern

NOTE

●● If you assign a stereo file to a mono track, stereo link is turned on automatically. For example, if mono files are assigned to tracks 1 and 2, the stereo file will be assigned to track 1 and the mono file on track 2 will become unassigned.

●● If you assign a mono file to a stereo track, stereo link will be turned off automatically.

HINT

●● You can also play the audio file being selected.

Play Stop

●● Files that are already assigned to tracks have an * to the left of their names.

30