recorde guide

61THE INTERNATIONAL

BUYER’S GUIDEA SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL PUBLICATION FROM THE NEWBAY MEDIA GROUP

AUDIOMEDIAAUDIO-FOR-VIDEO • BROADCAST • INTERNET AUDIO • LIVE SOUND • MULTIMEDIA • POST PRODUCTION • RECORDING

T H E W O R L D ’ S L E A D I N G P R O F E S S I O N A L A U D I O T E C H N O L O G Y M A G A Z I N E

RECORDERS2012

AUDIO MEDIAPRODUCED BY

In associat ion with:

I N T E R N AT I O N A L E D I T I O N

01-recorders-buyers-cover-2012.indd 1 21/11/2011 17:10

62MEET THE BLACKBOX FAMILY

HIGH QUALITY SoLUTIoNS FoR LIVE MULTI-CHANNEL AUdIoCAPTURE ANd PLAYBACK WITHoUT A CoMPUTER

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BLACKBOX BBR64-MAdI RECoRdERDesigned for a range of applications requiring the capture of multiple channels of live audio material with minimum fuss,

including Live Music, Broadcast, Film & TV Sound.

• 64 channels in one rack unit!

• Audio recorded direct to external USB2 drivein BWAV format

• USB drive plugs straight into workstation forinstant editing, mixing and post production

BLACKBOX BBR-dANTE RECoRdERDesigned for capturing multiple channels of live audio material via Dante network.

Applications in Live Music, Broadcast, Film & TV Sound.




BLACKBOX RECoRdERUnique technology lets you capture live multi-channel audio without taking a computer or DAW to the

performance. Robust, rugged, rack-mounted and ready to record.


• Analogue and digital i/o options



BLACKBOX PLAYERDedicated multi-channel playback device specifically designed to replay backing tracks and multiple

surround stems for live shows and themed entertainment.

• 24 channel playback in one rack unit!

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• Synchronous playback to timecode

• Available as plug-in for BlackBox Recorder

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02-Recorders-2012-display-joe-co.indd 1 25/11/2011 08:43

63c o n t e n t s Welcome to Recorders 2012, an international

Buyer’s Guide. We’ve been busy rooting around the professional recorder ranges to bring you a healthy stack of options in the recorder genre.

This publication is a collection of promotional articles looking at six of the world’s leading recorder manufacturers and their product ranges. Inside you’ll find the stories behind the gear – the ethos’ and design ethics that go into producing one of the key components in professional audio – and plenty of info on the products themselves. In addition we’ve collated a directory of professional recorder manufacturers and commissioned two articles around the subject of recorder technology and technique for the audio pro.

Even through the rise of the DAW, the need for reliable, high quality, and feature-rich recording devices has never gone away – as confirmed by the recent peak in new models, especially for the location recordist and audio journalist. New media types have accelerated development and now you can choose CD, hard disk, DVD, and solid state types to suit your needs and your budget. There’s also a vast array of audio file formats to handle, each one bringing the benefit of choice in data economy, audio quality, archive suitability, and more.

Even newspapers and other print-based media are finding the need for suitable recording devices now that podcast and multimedia channels are becoming a necessary part of everyday content provision.

Are you a Foley editor? Are you a production recordist? Are you a new media journalist? Are you a broadcast professional? Are you a sound designer? All of these roles and more require the best in recorder technology to make your job easier and your results better. Do you know what functions, facilities, and frills are available nowadays? Wouldn’t you like a large choice put right in front of you, rather than starting your hunt through the normal myriad of sales and dealer channels?

This guide is the place to start your recorder shopping spree. This, and the other Buyers Guides in the series (Monitors, Microphones, Consoles, Live Sound Technology, Live Sound Applications, and DAWs) are Audio Media projects, designed to help you find your way though the information explosion and find the product that suits your needs. Audio Media is an internationally distributed magazine that deals with professional audio production in film, TV, radio, music, games, and on stage.

It’s available in both print and digital editions. For more details, go to www.audiomedia.com.

The NewBay Team

Sales Manager Graham Kirk [email protected]

Editor In Chief Paul Mac [email protected]

Editorial Manager (Europe) Lanna Marshall [email protected]

Design & Production Manager John-Paul Shirreffs [email protected]

AUDIO MEDIA www.audiomedia.com (UK) Tel: +44 (0)1480 461555 - Fax: +44 (0)1480 461550

The contents of this publication are subject to worldwide copyright protection and reproduction in whole or in part, whether

mechanical or electronic, is expressly forbidden without the prior written consent of the Publishers. Great care is taken to ensure

accuracy in the preparation of this publication but neither NewBay Media nor the Editor can be held responsible for its contents or

any omissions. The views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily those of the Publishers or Editor. The Publishers

accept no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, or artwork.

© 2011 NewBay Media. All rights reserved.

www.nbmedia.com

4 The Bluffer’s Guide to Location Sound . . . . . . . . . . . .

6 DM Professional Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

8 JoeCo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10 Olympus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

12 Roland Systems Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

14 Sadie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

16 Sound Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

18 VB Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20 Zaxcom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

22 Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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03-recorders-contents-2012.indd 1 25/11/2011 16:11

64 Let’s take a little walk. Step out of the studio for a moment and let the big heavy door close behind you. Leave the comfort of the air conditioning and plentiful supply of coffee. Move away from the big chair, shiny desk, and comforting glow of LEDs on the racks of gear. Enter the often cold, wet, and unpredictable world of location recording.

Actually, let’s be devilish and call it something more general like “recording outdoors” because whether you’re working for a local radio station or a certain Mr. Spielberg, you’re going to face challenges when recording outside.

Let’s start with kit. Without getting all Harold Macmillan-ish, there really has never been a wider choice of portable recorders on the market, from mega-bucks location machines to uber-portable pocket devices. It’s a question of what’s needed for a specific job.

If you need full-blown location recorder and don’t already have one in your arsenal then a good bit of advice is to hire for the day. From a business point of view you can at least see what the kit is costing you, and from a technical perspective you get access to something you might never otherwise get to use. I’ve hired Sound Devices recorders for location jobs. I love them to bits and renting makes perfect sense for my business plan. Also, hiring lets you try out new or different machines. I used a Tascam HS P82 eight-channel recorder for one recording session and am now a convert.

For jobs like recording ambient sound, Foley, or radio material, a hand-held machine may look a better option. Film Sound Designer and Foley Recordist Alex Joseph often moves out of the studio to get the sounds he needs for movies like Quantum of Solace, Mamma Mia, and Harry Potter.

He told Audio Media: “The things I’m

really impressed with these days are the new generation of portable recorders, I have access to a Zoom H4 and have found it very useful in guerilla recording, especially for Foley. I found it invaluable myself on Quantum of Solace, as it meant I could sneak off to disused sets with others to record gantry sounds and strange noises very quickly. I own a Sony D50 myself and that is brilliant. I bought it in New York when I was working there and recorded everywhere I went, it was instant and inconspicuous so the

recordings were brilliant.”

Higher Standards, But…I’ve been lucky enough to test-

drive a range of the latest pocket-sized recorders

for Audio Media in the last couple of years and

standards seem to be going up and up

with each new product. High sample rates and bit

depths are now the norm and multi-channel recording is now

becoming more and more commonplace – great for

getting ambient audio.But one thing that

most of these little machines suffer from

is handling noise; picking up the sounds of your

own fingers. So a really top bit of advice

would be to invest in a pistol grip. Some manufacturers make their own but

you can also buy them from the likes of Rycote. They’re not necessarily cheap but the difference they can make to a recording is huge. Marry a recorder like the Olympus LS series to a grip and you suddenly have a really powerful recording tool. You don’t have to worry constantly about rattle and thumps from your own digits.

Familiarity with your equipment is also vital. Yes, this goes for studio

recording as well but outdoors there are so many other things that can throw you off balance. You need to know your recorder is capable to doing the job while you worry about the encroaching army of crabs, rioters, or aggrieved looking police officers.

BBC Radio Journalist Huw Williams has been using portable recorders for almost thirty years, from Uher reel-to-reel machines via Minidisc to the Nagra Aries M. He makes a point of learning his recorders inside out.

Huw said, “At the funeral for the animal rights activist Jill Phipps, who was killed by a lorry transporting veal calves to Europe, the sudden arrival of the former sex-kitten turned campaigner Brigitte Bardot caused a huge stir. She was instantly surrounded by film crews and photographers. But I knew I needed to get an interview with her. So I pushed my way towards her, and ended up walking immediately behind her, with my arm almost round her neck holding my microphone in front of her. She was giving what seemed like an interminably long interview in French as she walked through the precincts of Coventry Cathedral. But eventually I interrupted, and shouted “Et maintenant en anglais, s’ils vous plait.”

“I’ve still got a copy of the Guardian from the next day, February 15, 1995, which shows me with a rather disturbing expression on my face practically embracing the star. To be honest, the last thing you worry about in a situation like that is checking levels, or how much background noise there is. You just have to know that your kit will work.”

An Open Mind For The Open OutsideThat’s not even scraped the surface of choosing and using equipment on location but some of the best advice is probably to keep an open mind – not just about recorders but about mics and other kit. Having a favourite piece of

hardware is good but being prepared to dig into the bottom of the kit box can

also pay dividends. A drum or vocal mic pointed at a car exhaust?

That’ll never work, surely? Actually, yes it might.

Often the greatest challenge can be the

4 BLUFFER’S GUIDE



for in the last couple of years and



a local radio station or a certain Mr. Spielberg, I went, it was instant and inconspicuous so the

recordings were brilliant.”you’re going to face challenges when

Let’s start with kit. Without getting all Harold Macmillan-ish, there really has never been a wider choice of portable recorders on the

depths are now the norm and

you’re going to face challenges when

Let’s start with kit. Without getting all Harold Macmillan-ish, there really





depths are now the norm and If you need full-blown location

recorder and don’t already have one in your arsenal then a good bit of

is handling noise; picking up the sounds of your



you can also buy them from the likes of Rycote. business plan. Also, hiring lets you try out new or different machines. I used

High sample rates and bit depths are now the norm and

If you need full-blown location

multi-channel recording is now becoming more and more

commonplace – great for getting ambient audio.

But one thing that most of these little

machines suffer from is handling noise;

in your arsenal then a good bit of advice is to hire for the day. From a business point of

costing you, and from a technical perspective you get access to something you might never otherwise get to use. I’ve hired Sound Devices recorders for location jobs. I love them to bits and renting makes perfect sense for my business plan. Also, hiring lets you try

They’re not necessarily cheap but the difference they can make to a recording is huge. Marry a recorder like the Olympus LS series to a

becoming more and more commonplace – great for

If you need full-blown location

multi-channel recording is now

If you need full-blown location depths are now the norm and

multi-channel recording is now

If you need full-blown location recorder and don’t already have one in your arsenal then a good bit of advice is to hire for the day.

you might never otherwise get to use. I’ve hired Sound Devices recorders for location jobs. I love them to bits and renting makes perfect sense for my business plan. Also, hiring lets you try out new or different machines. I used

commonplace – great for getting ambient audio.

But one thing that most of these little

machines suffer from is handling noise;

picking up the



you can also buy them from the likes of Rycote.

in your arsenal then a good bit of becoming more and more

commonplace – great for

If you need full-blown location recorder and don’t already have one in your arsenal then a good bit of

If you need full-blown location recorder and don’t already have one in your arsenal then a good bit of

High sample rates and bit depths are now the norm and

multi-channel recording is now becoming more and more

dig into the bottom of the kit box can dig into the bottom of the kit box can also pay dividends. A drum or vocal

mic pointed at a car exhaust? That’ll never work, surely?

Actually, yes it might.Often the greatest

challenge can be the

they can make to a recording is huge. Marry a recorder like the Olympus LS series to a grip and you suddenly have a really powerful recording tool. You don’t have to worry constantly about rattle and thumps

hardware is good but being prepared to dig into the bottom of the kit box can grip and you suddenly have a really powerful

recording tool. You don’t have to worry constantly about rattle and thumps

dig into the bottom of the kit box can also pay dividends. A drum or vocal

mic pointed at a car exhaust? That’ll never work, surely?

Actually, yes it might.

Ever wondered what it’s like to pocket your recorder and take your chances with the weather and general public in the great world outside the studio? JERRY IBBOTSON provides an insight…

The Bluffer’s Guide to Location Recording

04-recorders-editorial-2012.indd 1 21/11/2011 17:05

65 location itself. Chris Munro is a Production Sound Mixer in the fi lm industry who credits include numerous Bond outings, Tomb Raider, Sherlock Holmes and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. On Quantum of Solace one of the locations was Panama, where the problem of background noise reared its ugly head.

“We were in a run down area and it was a fairly diffi cult location with a lot of background noise. But although these situations might be noisy, they would work well in the fi lm. So we looked at things like shooting the wide shots in one location and going somewhere quieter to shoot the dialogue in close ups.”

As well as Panama, the fi lm was shot in the UK, Chile, Austria, and Italy. All of these provided different challenges when it came to isolating the actors’ voices from the background noise. Chris said, “Another thing we might do, perhaps where we were working in an apartment, was to make the location better acoustically by putting in double glazing or by changing hard fl ooring to carpet. We looked at all these aspects to make things better for us.”

Those are the kind of lengths you can probably only go to when working on a Bond budget. But it costs nothing to at least be aware of the acoustics of the environment around you and doing something about it needn’t cost a penny either. If there’s a noisy computer in the corner, with its fan whirring

away, ask if you can turn it off for the duration of the recording. Fridges and overhead lights put out electrical noise as well as audible hum so switch them off. And look at the actual place you’re in and check the acoustics. High ceilings, wooden fl oor, large windows. They can all affect the sound you get.

BBC Scotland Reporter Huw Williams once took this to extremes: “My fi rst ever location recording was for a religious magazine programme on BBC Radio Leicester. I don’t remember anything about the training I’d had before being sent out, but it must have really stressed the importance of not having too much intrusive background noise. Because I made the poor interviewee join me, sitting in a cupboard under the stairs at the church hall where he’d been speaking. Goodness only knows what the acoustics sounded like. I don’t suppose the trainer mentioned that technicality.”

One of the traps you can fall into when recording stand-alone audio (ambient sound especially) is to crank up the levels. What you end up with, at best, is a recording that’s far louder than the actual sound. Birds in the tree-tops, for example, don’t need to be peaking at -6db on your meter unless they happen to be vultures playing in a brass band. You might also pick up sounds you don’t want or dreaded pre-amp hiss.

Hush…So another piece of advice would be to let the quiet stuff stay quiet. Wildlife Sound Recordist Chris Watson, whose work has been heard on countless BBC natural history documentaries, relies on something very old fashioned when setting level – his ears. First he plays a piece of music that he knows well through his machine and sets the headphone volume level to something he’s comfortable with. He then takes the headphone knob off! He adjusts the recording gain so that any source (like waves crashing on a beach) sounds natural in his cans.

Talking of ambient sound – try to grab some wildtrack whenever you can. This can be great for creating consistent background sound in a fi nal mix, whether it’s radio, fi lm or TV. Conversely, you can use it in the noise reduction process, giving your software or hardware more to get its teeth into.

There’s another element that can be utterly unpredictable when you’re out and about recording – people. Be prepared to explain to passers-by what you’re doing (unless you’re right in the middle of recording, in which case some polite sign language can be useful) and they might not make so much noise. Balance the technical with the personal. It’s pretty much what applies in a studio, only with more chance of rain.

4 BLUFFER’S GUIDE THE INTERNATIONAL RECORDERS BUYER’S GUIDE 5

recorders 2012recorders 2012recorders 2012

The Bluffer’s Guide to Location Recording

666 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

+ + + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + +

The brand Marantz has a rock-solid pedigree in the world of portable audio recorders, particularly for the radio and newsgathering markets. The company’s cassette machines won particular favour in independent radio stations in the UK (the BBC tending to lean more towards reel to reel recorders). Anyone who has worked in an ILR newsroom in the 1970s, 80s, or 90s will be familiar with at least one model of Marantz. The original Superscope – a beast of a machine that began life as a domestic recorder – was later superceded by the PMD430.

Even today the 430 is held in high esteem, even awe, by some. It’s been described as the best cassette machine ever made. Try searching for it on Youtube and you’ll find videos made by people who’ve been lucky to find one at an auction or car boot sale.

Back To The BeginningThe company itself was founded by Saul Marantz in New York in 1958 who began by building a pre-amp. It’s passed through various hands, including being part-owned by Phillips, until today when it’s wholly owned by D&M Professional, based in Japan.

Like a number of manufacturers Marantz launched a professional Minidisc recorder in the 1990s, in the form of the PMD 650. This bore a certain similarity in its overall layout and design to the original 430 cassette recorder from a decade or so before. At a time when Minidisc was incredibly popular among radio reporters and producers, this machine raised the bar.

Then came its first solid state recorder; the PMD 670, which borrowed the Minidisc machine’s chassis but recorded uncompressed audio (along with MP3 files) to Compact Flash cards. This had twin XLR inputs with 48V phantom power, SPDIF input, pre-record buffer, manual and auto record levels, a limiter, and a host of other features. It could even record

telephone interviews through an RJ-11 jack.The 670 was upgraded to the 671, which

raised the top sample rate from 48kHz to 96k 24-bit, and added extra features like a virtual third head, which allows for post-record monitoring. It’s carried over-the-shoulder and is a popular choice among radio producers, continuing the Marantz tradition. That said, its broad feature set and excellent record quality mean it’s also at home in the studio as a back-up recorder.

Up To Date: 661Amongst Marantz’s current range is the 661, which packs many of the features of the 671 into a more compact chassis. It carries two internal condenser microphones for one-handed point and shoot recording, but also has balanced XLR inputs as well as line-in and unbalanced line outs on RCA connectors.

Given its relatively small size it’s still

a power house of a machine with a stack of

design touches that a professional user will appreciate. There’s a chunky gain dial that can easily be reached on the move for fast adjustment, a combination of both a backlight multi-function OLED display and a separate LED level meter to assure the user that they’re hitting the mark. There are fewer hardware buttons than the 671, but that doesn’t mean the feature list has been cut – instead there’s a simple to follow menu system.

The chassis itself feels a lot more rugged than some of the 661’s competitors, adding to the confidence that a radio journalist or location recordist needs to have in their machine. It records to SD cards, including the SDHC variety that go up to 32 gigabytes, and it can

offer over eight hours of use from four AA batteries. Recording-wise, which of course is the most important bit, the 661 can record MP3 files at a variety of bit rates (mono and stereo) as well as uncompressed .wav files up to 96kHz/24-bit. Its high quality pre-amps produce clear, sharp audio of the highest quality.

All In HandHandheld recorders are more popular than ever, not just with journalists but location recordists and sound designers who want something they can slip in a pocket and take with them on the off-chance of stumbling across a great sound. The Marantz PMD 620 is a great example of such a device. It really is little bigger than a cigarette packet yet manages to cram in a range of features and a level of performance that would put many bigger machines to shame.

The 620 has a brushed metal fascia and rubberised buttons that reduce handling noise

When it comes to the world of portable recorders, you won’t go far wrong with a Marantz.

Marantz: A Rock Solid Pedigree

that began life as a domestic recorder – was later superceded by the PMD430.

Even today the 430 is held in high esteem, even awe, by some. It’s been described as the best cassette machine ever

Try searching for it on Youtube and you’ll find videos made by people who’ve been lucky to find one at an

The company itself was founded by Saul Marantz in New York in 1958 who began by building a pre-amp. It’s passed through various hands, including being

manufacturers Marantz launched a

broad feature set and excellent record quality mean it’s also at home in the studio as a back-up recorder.

Up To Date: 661Amongst Marantz’s current range is the 661, which packs many of the features of the 671 into a more compact chassis. It carries two internal condenser microphones for one-handed point and shoot recording, but also has balanced XLR inputs as well as line-in and unbalanced line outs on RCA connectors.

Given its relatively small size it’s still

06-marantz-recorders-2012.indd 1 21/11/2011 17:04

67recorders 2012recorders 2012

6 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE THE INTERNATIONAL RECORDERS BUYER’S GUIDE 7

+ + + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + + D M P R O F E S S I O N A L E U R O P E + + + +

and increase the durability of the recorder. The OLED display is clear and bright and can be altered to suit the user. There is a simple menu interface and the buttons are clear laid out. The 620 has two omni-directional microphone capsules along with external mic and line-in inputs. It also has on-board non-destructive editing facilities, ideal for radio journalists looking to edit their material on the move.

When the 620 was first introduced, Marantz believed that its user appeal would extend beyond the company’s traditional customer base among the professional audio world. This has proved to be the case, with the high recording quality and ease of use of the baby machine introducing many people to the brand for the very first time.

Denon ProDenon professional is Marantz Professional’s sister brand, and has historically been associated with playback (while Marantz has taken care of recording). However, in the Denon DN-F650R and DN-F450 the strengths of both are combined. These products are designed to replace DAT, Minidisc, and CDR machines in a range of applications from studio recording and playout to acting as a backup machine.

The 650R offers recording to and from SD/SDHC flash cards and USB external drives. It’s designed to fulfil the most demanding playback and recording applications in AV installation, audio production, live sound, theatre, and broadcast. Balanced XLR analogue audio and AES/EBU digital I/Os are featured, as well as unbalanced analogue and SPDIP connectivity. Serial, parallel, and contact closure remote control are supported, and the unit can be operated with Denon’s latest RC-F400S ‘Hot Start’ serial remote controller.

The OLED display and easy file search jog wheel enable simple front panel operation. A USB keyboard input allows for simple file name editing. A variety of playback modes includes single, repeat, random, continuous, and skip back play. Pitch control (between +20 and –40%), tempo lock, and a headphone out

with volume control are also included.Stereo and mono audio channels are

simultaneously available, and both WAV and MP3 file formats are supported, with sample rates from 44 to 96k, and 24- and 16-bit resolution. It can also record to MP3 at bit rates between 32 and 320kbps. It offers cascade recording and file management between the SD card and a connected USB drive, and can transfer files direct to PC via USB 2.0.

The 650R is a full rack-sized machine, whereas its baby brother, the 450R is half-rack. It offers a simplified, cost competitive solid state recording and playback capability. The 450R also records to SD and SDHC flash memory cards, with USB connectivity to PC. Balanced analogue inputs on XLR are featured alongside unbalanced I/O. Stereo and mono audio channels are simultaneously available, and PCM WAV and MP3 file formats are supported, with the same sample rate and bit

rate selectivity as the 650R. Serial and contact closure remote controls are supported, and a headphone out with volume control is included. Selectable playback modes, power on auto play, marking and mark search, audible quick search, and easy jog-wheel file search are all featured.

Across the entire range of its products, Marantz carries some core values. All of the company’s machines share a professional audio pedigree born in the world of broadcasting. The highest recording quality married to great design and outstanding build quality mean Marantz machines have a worldwide following.

Marantz: A Rock Solid Pedigree

Adventures with a Marantz 620

A User’s Experience: Jerry Ibbotson, Media Mill

I’ve been using a Marantz 620 since it was launched. The little machine changed how I think about pocket recorders. The last machine of that size that I’d used had been a domestic Minidisc recorder, with an external mic on an XLR to minijack lead. But once I’d started using the 620 I realised that I had everything I needed in one hand. I’ve used it to record spot effects, Foley, and ambient audio – even to capture the sound of a Chinook helicopter taking off. I think I was won over the day I was sat on a railway station platform and a steam train pulled up opposite. I had the 620 in my jacket pocket and was able to get some great audio that I would otherwise have missed. The sound quality is fabulous, not just to a machine of that size, but full stop.

CONTACT DETAILS

Denon Marantz Kingsbridge House, Padbury Oaks,

Longford, Middlesex, UB7 0EW

t +44 (0) 7824 900608

w www.marantz.co.uk

w www.dm-pro.eu

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+ + + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + +

LIMITED+ + + + JOECO LIMITED+ + + + JOECO LIMITED+ + + + JOECO LIMITED+ + + +

For JoeCo Managing Director and product developer Joe Bull, the BlackBox concept evolved from years of talking to users across the industry who needed a compact, easy to use device for capturing live audio to a universally readable file format. Among other things, it would simplify and speed up the ingest of the audio material into workstations for mixing and re-purposing, whilst simultaneously taking generic computer operating systems out of the live recording process. Originally designed as a dedicated 1U rack-mounted 24-channel solution, the BLACKBOX RECORDER’s latest developments have now taken into account a growing demand for these benefits to be more widely available on digitally connected systems, most notably for MADI data streams from existing equipment and Dante networking to take advantage of the forthcoming AVB protocols.

Raising the Track Count with the BBR64-MADILike its BlackBox siblings, the new BBR64-MADI was initially specified as a 24-channel recording system, however it was obvious that requiring three systems to record the full 64 channels of a MADI stream rather defeated the beauty of the recorder’s compact nature. Thus began a development process that involved rewriting the bespoke operating system in order to increase the track count, while keeping the hardware interface as consistent as possible with that of other BlackBox models.

The release version of the BBR64-MADI can capture the full 64 channels of MADI data at standard sample rates directly to mono Broadcast WAV files on an external USB2 drive, whilst double sample rate MADI recording, up to 96kHz, is also accommodated at reduced track count. The unit has both coaxial and optical MADI connections for interfacing with any MADI equipped console or other equipment.

It also caters for 56-channel legacy MADI and can record a further eight channels of balanced analogue line level for capturing the audience reaction or general ambience.

The BBR64-MADI can lock to an incoming MADI data stream or separate word clock. It can also generate word clock. The MADI input can be echoed directly to the output to ease integration. Many standard BlackBox features are also included in the new version, such as the Safe ‘n’ Sound Record Recovery that will recover files even if the power fails during recording. Multiple units can also be stacked for even higher track counts.

“The BBR-MADI is already proving a huge success,” says Joe Bull. “One system comprising four MADI units is currently out on tour recording 256 channels of audio every night, so it’s really giving us an opportunity to seriously monitor this system in action!”

With the recent release of JoeCo’s BBR64-MADI and BBR-DANTE Recorders, developments in BlackBox technology have seen the audio capturing capabilities of the compact 1U, live multi-track recorder increase from 24 channels to 64.

blackbox recorder – Making Every Track Count!

The BBR-64 MADI rear panel.

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+ + + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + + J O E C O + + + +


CONTACT DETAILS

JoeCo Limited135 Histon Road, Cottenham,

Cambridge, CB24 8UQ, UK

t +44 (0) 1223 911000

e [email protected]

w www.joeco.co.uk

Distributed in the UK by:

MSL Professional

t +44 (0) 207 118 0133

e [email protected]

Distributed in the USA by:

Full Scale AV

t +1 615-833-1824

e [email protected]

Involving the UserWith JoeCo’s company philosophy built around meeting the needs of its user base, it’s hardly surprising that potential users were involved during the development of the BBR64-MADI, providing much valued input at significant stages. “A good example of this was the way that the BBR-MADI’s metering system evolved,” recalls Joe. “After painstaking optimisation we’d raised the track count to around 54 channels, but this was still some way short of our goal. Potential users reassured us that providing a Pre-Fade Listen (PFL) facility instead of a full headphone mix would be more than adequate, given the number of tracks involved and the fact that levels would always be set at the mic pre-amp stage on the console anyway. This and other modifications enabled us to break though the 64 channel barrier while retaining the general look, feel, and most importantly, the compact dimensions of the unit”.

The metering section is one of the elements that give both the BBR64-MADI and the BBR-DANTE their “visual identities”. Channel LEDs flash dull red when record enabled, glowing solidly once in record. As signal is received on a particular channel, the LED shows the level varying from dull green through yellow to red, whilst a peak signal turns the LED bright red. Meanwhile, the PFL bus places the mono or stereo bus signal onto a pair of 12 segment LED meters as well as the headphone output for any channel requiring more detailed inspection.

Networking with the BBR-DANTEThe new BBR-DANTE version of the recorder results from collaboration between JoeCo and Audinate, creators of the award-winning Dante™ digital media networking solution. Designed for connection to any Dante-enabled network device from a range of console and converter manufacturers, this BlackBox version provides a dedicated solution for recording

via Dante network. Designed to support standard network components and switches, the BBR-DANTE system again records directly to Broadcast WAV files on an external USB2 (FAT32 formatted) drive. It also accommodates higher sample rate recording (88.2kHZ and 96kHz) at a reduced track count. Additionally, it can similarly record eight channels of balanced analogue at line level for capturing audience and ambience.

As with the BBR64-MADI system, individual channels or pairs of channels can be monitored on an internal PFL bus to provide both hi-resolution metering and headphone output. Standard BlackBox features such as the Safe’n’Sound Record Recovery are also included. For synchronisation purposes, the system can lock to and generate word clock, or lock to the incoming Dante audio steam.

“We have been delighted to be able to combine an exciting technology such as Dante with the BBR’s robust computer-free recording capability,” says Joe. “At the same time, with the BBR64-MADI we have succeeded in our challenge to combine the capture of up to 64 channels of audio to a universal disk and file format in one rack unit weighing less than 2.5kg. I think it’s fair to say that 2011 has been a good year!”

The BBR64-MADI and BBR-DANTE systems are complemented by the original 24-channel BlackBox Recorders that are available with unbalanced analogue, balanced analogue, Lightpipe, or AES/EBU interfaces. All BlackBox recorders capture audio to ubiquitous USB2 drives, in standard mono broadcast WAV file format, for easy ingest into every post production system. In addition, existing users benefit from the speed improvements that have made the new systems possible – free!

blackbox recorder – Making Every Track Count!

BlackBox Technology – What Users are Saying

“The unit was recording for 24 hours a day over six weeks and remained solid throughout.” Stuart Bruce, Production Sound Mixer, SabSound Ltd.

“Brilliant piece of gear! Digico D5 to JoeCo BBR64-MADI– Magic”Bobby Tis, Monitor Engineer, Tedeschi Trucks Band

“The things that I immediately liked were the fact that the screen was so bright and simple and the unit was so compact!”Chris White, London Philharmonic Orchestra “Video Game Heroes” concert

“The attention to detail is remarkable and it’s got features we hadn’t even realised.”Dave Foister, Head of Audio-Visual, Guildhall School of Music & Drama, London

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+ + + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + +


+ + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + ++ + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + + O LY M P U S + + + +

Professional Audio Recorders – Sound Studio in your Pocket

The Olympus LS-11.

Olympus produces a range of high quality professional audio recorders developed for musicians, journalists, and anyone wanting to capture professional audio. The LS range captures sound in linear PCM – better than CD quality, whilst offering a portable solution for your ‘recording studio’.

Olympus is a name that, until fairly recently, was more synonymous with cameras than recording equipment. Granted, the company did produce the first microcassette dictation machine back in 1969, but it was still better known for SLRs, compacts, and even high-end medical optics than audio kit.

That all changed with the launch of the first LS-designated portable recorder a few years ago. There are now several different models in the range, including one with a full High Definition video camera built in. They all have a range of professional level features including full manual controls, high resolution recording, on-board editing facilities, and high quality build and finish.

The LS-5The LS-5 is a mid-range model but still packs quite a punch. This pocket-sized machine can record .wav files as high as 96kHz 24-bit, as well as MP3 and WMA files in a range of bit rates. It comes with 2GB of internal memory, which can be expanded through the use of SD cards, including the larger capacity SDHC variety.

It’s ergonomically designed, with two stereo microphone capsules set far away from the user’s fingers (this is a handheld machine after all). The main controls are laid out in a clear,

logical manner, and there’s a backlit LCD display for the comprehensive menu system and system information, including the audio level meters.

The LS-5 can set its recording level automatically, which may well be of use to

journalists who need to point-and-shoot. For press conference situations it also has rubberised feet so it can be left on a table without picking up too much noise.

The real power of the machine comes through when it’s set to manual. There’s an easy to read level dial on the side, easily within reach of the user’s thumb, and that clear, backlit LCD level meter. There’s also a Limiter than can be set in manual mode. When recording at 44k, 16-bit, the field of the microphone capsules can even be adjusted to “zoom” in on sources further away (acting like a shotgun mic).

The feature count also includes separate mic and line inputs on mini-jacks, a Low Cut rumble filter, and a switch for two levels of microphone sensitivity. There’s also a screw thread in the belly of

the recorder for use either with a stand or tripod or with a pistol grip. Using a grip further isolates the recorder from handling noise and turns the LS-5 into a powerful location recording tool.

The most important thing with any recorder though is audio quality, and the Olympus LS-5 shines through in this regard. The sound is clear and sharp thanks to the high grade noise-reducing microphones and sophisticated internal electronics. Even when recording quiet sounds, such as wildlife or birdsong, the audio is clean and hiss-free.

The LS-5 is equally at home recording sound effects or radio interviews and the audio can be edited on the machine itself – of great use to journalists out in the field.

The LS-11 is also available at a premium. Silver in colour, it features 8GB of memory, an infa red remote control, and Cubase LE software included in the box.

The LS-3The LS-3 recorder takes many of the features of its bigger brothers and sisters and fits them into a much smaller page. Then for good measure it adds some more of its own. This is one of the smallest machines to offer high-grade 94kHz, 24-bit recording and is truly pocket sized – less than

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half the size and weight of the LS-5.But it’s more than its size (or lack

of it) that makes the LS-3 special. For starters, it has a pre-record buffer, something normally only found on much more expensive machines. When the recorder is in record-pause mode, it “captures” the audio that is passing through the system and stores several seconds’ worth in a buffer. When you hit the record button and set it running, that material is the first to be stored permanently. It means you need never miss another key bit of audio again, whether it’s a headline-grabbing sound bite or the sound of a chirping bird.

The LS-3 also has three built-in microphones: joining its two angled condenser mic is an omni-directional one that stretches down to 20Hz to improve the capture of low frequencies for truly natural stereo with much more bass feeling. And enhancing sound purity in situations with background sounds is a switchable two-level low-cut filter –

at 100Hz and 300Hz.Besides the VCVA function,

which enables automatic commencement and continuation of recordings in a single file when audio levels exceed a certain threshold, the LS-3 also incorporates Voice sync recording. This feature also captures audio without silent pauses, yet saves the recorded sections in multiple files.

The intuitive operation of this model is supported by a clever Voice Guidance system. It provides audio prompts on features, which is especially useful for visually challenged users.

Recording and playback scene setting functions can be defined according to the situation and saved for further recordings in the same environment. File management is a breeze, too: users can change folder names and set index marks during recording and playback. Recorded files can be divided, partially

erased and moved or copied between the 4GB of internal memory and microSD card.

The sleek, aluminium-bodied Olympus LS-3 is high on features, is attractive in price, and is the most compact LS model ever. It adds another weapon to Olympus’s impressive, and growing, arsenal of portable audio recorders.

The LS-20

The LS-20 is a striking part of the Olympus line-up. Not just for its unusual looks – it’s much flatter than most other handheld machines and looks decidedly sci-fi – but for the addition of a High Definition video camera, with its lens nestling between the stereo microphone capsules. It’s capable of recording video at full HD strength – 1080p – with the accompanying PCM audio as

high as 96 kHz, 28-bit.It’s simplicity itself to use. On one side of that

“rolled flat” body is a slider switch than lets you choose between video and

audio-only recording. On the top deck there’s

a small grey scale LCD screen, which shows the menu and au-dio settings, and above that is a much more exciting colour one: this shows what you’re filming.

The buttons for Record, Play, and Stop are all right under your thumb, and in the base is a panel for the USB connection and mini HDMI output to show your movies on a larger screen. There’s also an SD card slot and mini-jack sockets for external microphone and headphones.

Sitting between the capsules is the lens for the video camera, which has an electronic zoom. The exposure can’t be set manu-ally but there is an exposure compensation feature to alter it incrementally up or down. As standard, the white balance is set automatically but you can do this yourself or use a range of presets e.g., daylight, fluorescent light, etc. There’s also the capa-bility of changing the exposure metering from a matrix to spot, allowing you expose for a key part of a scene.

The LS-20 will even let you hold it aloft (to shoot a live event from the back of the crowd for example) without tipping the picture on its head. Its reverse angle recording flicks the video and audio round to keep every-thing the right way up.

Sound wise, there’s full manual control of audio (unlike many small video cameras) and a stack of features found on other LS models including on-board audio editing.

Whether it’s being used to capture a band playing live, interview mate-rial, discrete newsgather-ing, or as a video “notebook”, the LS-20 is unique in offering both HD video and high quality audio in such a compact machine.

CONTACT DETAILS

OlympusKeyMed House, Stock Road, Southend on Sea,

Essex SS2 5QH

t 01702 616333

w www.olympus.co.uk/consumer/ls-series

UK Distributor:

SCV London, 40 Chigwell Lane, Oakwood Hill

Industrial Estate, Loughton, Essex, IG10 3NY

t 020 8418 1470

w www.scvlondon.co.uk

high as 96 kHz, 28-bit.It’s simplicity itself to use. On one side of that

“rolled flat” body is a slider switch than lets you choose between video and

audio-only recording. On the top deck there’s

a small grey scale LCD screen, -

10-olympus-recorders-2012.indd 2 21/11/2011 17:04


+ + + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + +

R-1000 Ideally Suited for Many Confi gurations and ApplicationsThe R-1000 is an intuitive, standalone, dedicated recorder/player designed to work with the V-Mixing System in any live event or production, making it ideal for virtual rehearsal, rehearsals, playback, and training. It can also be used with any digital console with a MADI output via the Roland S-MADI REAC MADI Bridge.

Based on REAC (Roland Ethernet Audio Communication), the R-1000 eliminates the bulk and noise susceptibility typically associated with analogue snakes and replaces it with Cat5e/6 (Ethernet/LAN) cable.

Recording up to 48 tracks of 24-bit audio in BWF format, its removable hard drive ensures smooth integration with DAWs and

allows approximately 20 hours of recording (44.1/48 kHz) using a 500GB HDD. Used in a live recording set-up with the V-Mixer, up to 40 channels of 24-bit audio from the V-Mixer can be recorded to the R-1000 and once fi nished can be opened in any DAW software such as Cakewalk SONAR/V-STUDIO, accessing the HDD via its USB 2.0 port. Multi-track playback (48 tracks of 24-bit audio via REAC) is also provided, while a marker function enables playback at any designated point.

Utilising the benefi t of bi-directional audio with REAC, the R-1000 can be used as a multi-track recording, backing track, sound check and rehearsal system by simply connecting the R-1000 between the V-Mixer and the Digital Snake and setting a channel to be live (not

The Roland R-1000 48 Track Audio Recorder/Player is a reliable, standalone hardware solution designed for live recording and playback for any event or production. The R-1000 records in broadcast WAV format, with multi-track playback making it ideal for virtual rehearsal, playback, and training.

Roland R-1000 48-Track Audio Recorder and Player

The new R-1000 48 Track Recorder and Player not only records multi channel audio but can also playback up to 48 channels in combination with a V-Mixing System.

The R-1000 can be used

with other live digital mixing

systems in combination with

the S-MADI REAC to MADI

Bridge

Roland History and Ethos

Roland Systems Group is dedicated to supporting audio and video professionals who demand excellence in terms of performance and system design by consistently providing the entertainment industry with the most creative and technically advanced products. Offering solutions to many markets including broadcast, education, live production, theatre, visual performance, and worship, Roland Systems Group provides intuitive, fl exible products that can be used in standalone or system confi gurations using the V-Mixing System, Digital Snakes, or S-MADI connectivity.



+ + + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + + R O L A N D S Y S T E M S G R O U P + + + +

CONTACT DETAILS

Roland Corporation2-7 Kandasuda-cho, Chiyoda-ku,

Tokyo 101-0041, Japan

w www.roland.com

Distributed in the UK by:

Roland Systems GroupStudio 3.3, 114 Power Road, London, W4 5PY, UK

t +44 (0) 1792 702701

w www.rolandsystemsgroup.co.uk

e [email protected]

Distributed in the USA by:

Roland Systems Group801 West Orchard Drive, Suite 3 Bellingham,

WA98225, USA

t +1 (360) 5944282

w www.rolandsystemsgroup.com

e [email protected]

record), live (record), and playback (from recorder).

Data can be loaded from external USB drives and devices, and analogue monitor and headphone outputs are provided, along with USB ports for backing up data and connecting a PC for further software control, plus a versatile feature set that includes video sync, SMPTE and MIDI Time Code, GPI and RS-232C.

A 40-channel live recording/playback system can be achieved with any MADI-equipped digital console by using the S-MADI Bridge with the R-1000. Using two S-MADI units to record/playback increases the channel count to 48.

For large event mixing and recording, two R-1000 units can provide up to 96 channels of recording due to their compatibility with over 20 other REAC components including digital snakes, personal mixing,

multi-channel recording/playback, and MADI bridge.

Connect the R-1000 with any V Mixer and control directly from the console or connect with any REAC Digital Snake product to provide a truly multi-purpose, rack mountable solution that is flexible enough to fit into any configuration.

Channels can be set to ‘pass thru’ live from the digital snake inputs, record live input or playback from the recorder or use the R-1000 to run a complete sound check and tune the room in a new venue without the need for musicians as you are able to select the missing musicians’ channel and continue. Alternatively, use the R-1000 to select any groups of channels for selective audio engineering training.

Roland R-1000 48-Track Audio Recorder and Player

Product Summary

The R-1000 is one of a range of products from Roland Systems Group that form the V-Mixing System, a modular, flexible system of innovative audio and video solutions for the live sound, recording, broadcast, personal mixing, and audio production market. Used in combination with the Digital Snake system, the V- Mixing System is configurable for any sound system along with convenient split, merge, and embedded power technology.

R-26 Hand Held Audio Recorder

Heralding the next generation of hand held recorders from Roland with features such as dual stereo mics, six channels of simultaneous recording and IARC (Isolated Adaptive Recording Circuit), which separates analogue and digital circuits – as well as impressive ergonomics – the technically advanced R-26 offers superior detail and depth. For ease of use, added benefits include onboard editing, a touch panel display, and a USB audio interface for your PC, making the R-26 an ideal solution for the stage, rehearsal, school, boardroom, or DSLR Recording.

Designed for use in the field, the dual stereo mics (omni-directional and directional) on the R-26 operate independently of each other and in addition to the onboard mics the R-26 provides XLR/TRS inputs for up to six channels (three stereo )of simultaneous recording. This useful feature allows the user to, for example, capture an instrument up close with the built in mics, record room ambience with external mics and save them as separate files for mixing together later.

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Heralding the next generation of hand held recorders from Roland with features such as dual stereo mics, six channels of simultaneous recording and IARC (Isolated Adaptive Recording Circuit), which separates analogue and digital circuits – as well as impressive ergonomics – the technically advanced R-26 offers superior detail and depth. For ease of use, added benefits include onboard editing, a touch panel display, and a USB audio interface for your PC, making the R-26 an ideal solution for the stage, rehearsal, school, boardroom, or

Designed for use in the field, the dual stereo mics (omni-directional and directional) on the R-26 operate independently of each other and in addition to the onboard mics the R-26 provides XLR/TRS inputs for up to six channels (three stereo )of simultaneous recording. This useful feature allows the user to, for example, capture an instrument up close with the built in mics, record room ambience with external mics and save them as

Roland provides a range of intuitive recording solutions

including the R-26 hand held portable recorder.

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The Origins of the SADiE 6 LiVE Series RecordersThe idea of developing a robust and reliable range of location and live sound recording systems began in 2004 after a series of meetings with members of the AMPS and IBS associations.

Already many sound recordists were taking laptops and the portable SADiE BB2 on location for a variety of tasks, including onsite editing or even mobile ADR, and there was an increasing need for a multi-track solution that combined recording and editing software. Robustness and reliability, without the need for setting up soundcards in the field, were considered crucial. It was from these discussions that the SADiE LRX was born.

In 2008 the Prism Media Products Group took ownership of SADiE, and soon afterward the company introduced its new SADiE 6 software. This led to the development of specific SADiE products for capturing live productions. Building on SADiE’s already well-established footing in live and location recording, Prism Sound introduced the SADiE 6 LiVE branded systems.

SADiE LiVE SeriesThe current SADiE LiVE range consists of the LiVE LRX2, H64, H128 large scale recorders, and the newly introduced Solid-State-LiVE recorder.

All of the systems have been developed with a significantly expanded track count allowing the LRX2 to record up to 64 tracks via MADI or up to 48 tracks via SADiE’s Mic pre-amp cards. The LiVE H64 and LiVE 128 and Solid State system are capable of recording up to 128 tracks via MADI, AES, Mic, or Line respectively using the same modular I/O cards as the LRX2.

With these high density, high reliability solutions, the SADiE LiVE series began carving a niche on locations such as music concert recordings, classical recording sessions, film sets, and reality TV.

The Hardware PackagesThe LRX2 hardware comprises an all-metal constructed unit that houses all the DSP, I/O cards, monitoring, weighted edit controller, small assignable mixer with motorised faders, and dedicated edit buttons. It also holds the time-code, video, and AES reference connections. Power is connected via a four-pin XLR

connector PSU. It is also possible to power the unit from a 12V camera battery pack.

The Live H64, H128, and Solid State workstations have been designed as fully modular systems, both in terms of processing power and input/output capabilities. The systems are housed in a 4U high rack mountable housing, an additional 3U high multi-channel interface box can be directly connected to the main unit to facilitate the addition of a range of I/O optional ‘slither card’ modules.

SADiE’s LiVE Series of workstations take location multi-track recording to new dimensions by offering a higher level of track density and the ultimate in convenience and reliability. Ideally suited for a wide range of applications, SADiE LiVE systems are now being used to record large scale concerts and location TV sound, as well as on location film-set sound capture. The growing number of high-end recording engineers who are using SADiE systems to capture live projects is testament to both SADiE and Prism Sound’s core philosophy that convenience and portability should never compromise audio fidelity.

SADiE 6 LiVE: High-End, Multi-Track Recording and EditingSADiE’s LiVE Series of workstations take location multi-track recording to new dimensions by offering a higher level of track density and the ultimate in convenience and reliability. Ideally suited for a wide range of applications, SADiE LiVE systems are now being used to record large scale concerts and location TV sound, as well as on location film-set sound capture.

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75 The Software PackagesSADiE Version 6 and ‘MTR’The LRX2, H64, H128, and Solid State systems are supplied as standard with the dedicated SADiE 6 ‘MTR’ (Multi Track Recorder) user interface, which greatly simplifies operation. In addition to the MTR software, there are four application-specific SADiE 6 software suites available:

• Radio Producer Suite• Post Suite• Mastering Suite• Sound Suite

Full Metadata support is provided, and sessions created in the single-screen MTR software can be opened in any of the full SADiE software Suites for full multi-track editing, as well as sophisticated post, mastering, and radio production operations.

The LRX2 connects via USB to any standard PC or Intel Mac running Windows. The LiVE H64 and 128 and Solid State LiVE are supplied as turnkey solutions. A DV-AVI video stream may also be simultaneously captured for playback. Additionally, PQ mastering is a feature of all SADiE 6 software systems, so CD refs can be produced on location.

File Transfer and CompatibilitySADiE uses the standard timecode stamped Broadcast WAV format, which gives compatibility with most other DAWs. If edits are required on set, and let’s not forget that this is one of the great strengths of the SADiE system,

then the EDLs can be exported as OMF, AAF, or AES31 to other systems.

The LiVE Series in ActionSADiE recently played a vital part in the recording of a new Roger Waters spectacular The Wall, which culminated in Athens in July where Waters performed three shows at the 2004 Olympic Stadium. The sound recording and mixing was captured by long-time friend and producer James Guthrie using a 96-track, 96kHz fully mirrored SADiE recording set-up modelled on that of his private studio in California.

In Athens, Waters spread his performance across two stages – the main stage and the front stage outside the wall – with audio lines switching between the two at various points during the concert to reduce channel count. A total of 96 tracks were recorded, distributed between the main 64-track SADiE system and a smaller SADiE LRX2 system running 32 tracks. All of the tracks were recorded at 96kHz sampling, 24-bit resolution.

To complement the Neve console, 16 channels of outboard Neve pre-amplifiers were used, a mixture of 1073 and 1081 units, which were provided by London-based FX Rentals. These were boosted by the addition

of 16 channels of Prism Sound’s Maselec Master Series MMA-4XR mic preamps. Two separate Neve 16:2 mixers were used ahead of the V-series console to help contain the total number of recording tracks.

The top 32 tracks on the SADiE LRX2 unit captured, among other things, playback of SFX and pre-recorded orchestral mixes, these sources feeding the quad speaker set-up. In addition, the LRX2 recorded a number of audience mics plus click tracks and show timecode.

The main 64-track system comprised two identical SADiE H128 dual MADI units each running RAID mirrored drive pairs, making four identical clones of all takes. The SADiE units were connected to the Prism Sound ADA-8XR units through two RME ADI6432 MADI-AES interfaces.

Main vocal channels, including Roger Waters’ main mics and his radio mic, were controlled using a number of Prism Sound Maselec MLA-2 dual-channel compressors configured on console insertion points. Extra UA 1176 compressors were loaned by Dinos Ioanides from Sierra Studios in Athens to cover extra channels.

Recording in Athens took place over six days, with three live shows and three days of filming for close-ups. The 1TB mirrored drives in the main SADiE systems were changed every two days and the main and backup disk sets were dispatched separately to reduce risk in transit.

recorders 2012recorders 2012recorders 2012


+ + + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + + S A D I E + + + +


CONTACT DETAILS

Prism Sound / SADiEw www.prismsound.com

w www.sadie.com

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+ + + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + +


Sound Devices’ digital recorders are designed specifically for documentary and feature film/video production, sound effects gathering, and live multi-channel music recording. The 7-Series recorders include high-performance, high-resolution analogue microphone preamplifiers. Developed for high-bandwidth, high bit-rate digital recording, these preamps set the standard for linearity, distortion performance, and low-noise gain.

Sound Devices’ two-input (702, 702T, 722), four-input (744T), and eight-input (788T) recorders write and play audio files with either 16 or 24-bit depth at all professional sampling rates, up to 192 kHz (96 kHz on the 788T). Multiple storage mediums, analogue/digital I/O, and high-speed computer connectivity make 7-Series recorders stand out as

world-class products.7-Series recorders are controlled by a fast

and intuitive user interface, with easy to access buttons and an informative LCD display and LED metering. All controls can be accessed on the front panel of the unit.

Created with documentary, ENG, and feature film recording engineers in mind, Sound Devices keeps its recorders as small and lightweight as possible without compromising sonic performance. No other audio recorders approach their size/performance ratio. The 788T can easily fit into a standard production audio carry case such as the CS-5, and weighs less than four pounds. All other 7-Series recorders weigh less than three pounds and easily fit in an accessory pouch.

The 7-Series records Broadcast WAV files (with iXML Metadata) to CompactFlash cards on all recorders and to internal hard drives on the drive-equipped 722, 744T, and 788T (160GB). Audio files can be transferred over FireWire (USB 2.0 and FireWire 800 on 788T) to a Windows PC or Mac OS computer for post-production or archiving.

While the 7-Series recorders are very capable tools alone, they excel when used in conjunction with Sound Devices 302 and 552 audio mixers. Using an external mixer extends the flexibility of the recorder and gives the next level of audio I/O and control.

Two-Track Recorders – 702, 702T, 722Sound Devices’ two-track recorders are powerful file-based digital audio

recorders. Sound Devices 702 is a two-track file-based digital audio recorder, while the Sound Devices 702T adds time code. The time code implementation makes the 702T perfect for any double-system video or film production application. Sound Devices 722 is designed with an internal hard drive for extended recording time.

These compact, two-track devices record and play back audio to CompactFlash cards and/or external FireWire drives (as well as internal hard drives for the 722), making field recording simple and fast. They record and play uncompressed PCM audio at 16 or 24 bits with sampling rates between 32kHz and 192kHz. Compressed MP3 audio and data-compressed FLAC recording and playback are also supported.

Removable, rechargeable batteries are a standard Sony-compatible Li-ion camcorder cell. The CompactFlash card appears as a removable storage device when connected via the FireWire port to Windows or Mac OS computers.

Four-Track Recorder – 744TSound Devices’ 744T is a powerful four-track file-based digital audio recorder. The super-compact 744T records and plays back audio to and from its internal hard drive, CompactFlash cards, and external FireWire drives. It records and plays uncompressed PCM audio at 16 or 24 bits with sample rates between 32kHz and 192kHz. Compressed MP3 audio recording and playback from 64kb/s to 320kb/s and data-compressed FLAC are also supported. The time code implementation makes the 744T ready for any recording job –from over-the-shoulder to cart-based productions.

Sound Devices’ 7-Series Digital Audio Recorders

Sound Devices’ 7-Series line is the next generation of digital audio recorders. The two, four, or eight track 7-Series recorders shatter the size, performance, and feature-set paradigms of all previous generations of audio recorders.

CL-8 Controller with Sound Devices 788T Digital Recorder.

Digital Audio Recorders

Sound Devices’ 7-Series line is the next generation of digital audio recorders. The two, four, or eight track 7-Series recorders shatter the size, performance, and feature-set paradigms of all previous generations of audio recorders.

CL-8 Controller with Sound Devices 788T Digital Recorder.

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77recorders 2012recorders 2012recorders 2012


+ + + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + + S O U N D D E V I C E S , L L C + + + +


Eight-Track Recorder – 788TIntended for on-location, multi-track productions, the eight-input, 12-track 788T features a significant expansion of input and output capability – eight full-featured microphone inputs and 12 tracks of recording. The eight inputs, together with a flexible digital architecture, provide unprecedented recording flexibility. The added I/O, new architecture, and powerful accessories such as the CL-8 and CL-9 controllers, make the 788T suitable for a wide range of applications.

To accommodate the larger data storage requirements of multi-track recordings, the 788T comes equipped with either a 160 GB 2.5-inch internal SATA hard disk drive or a 256GB SSD (788T-SSD). Hard drive-equipped recorders provide up to 30 hours of eight-track, uncompressed 24-bit audio recording of industry-standard Broadcast Wave files. Additionally, CompactFlash cards with UDMA support and external FireWire mass storage

volumes can be used for recording and playback. All three storage mediums can be selected for simultaneous, redundant recording.

As with the 702T and 744T’s time code recorders, the 788T has a high-performance, full-featured time code generator. It is also equipped with selectable word clock sync source, including numerous video sync sources. The 788T is powered by 7.2 V Li-ion batteries or external DC (10-18 V) and offers an on-board Li-ion battery charger.

The CL-8 Controller for the 788T Digital Recorder is a portable mixing control surface companion for its 788T recorder, which provides additional capabilities to the 788T without

a significant increase in weight, making it adaptable to a variety of field productions. The CL-8 features eight large, rotary faders to control the eight inputs of the 788T. It offers command over numerous input settings, including high-pass filter, limiter, polarity, and mute. When used with the CL-8, the original 788T input controls function as input trims, and the CL-8 controls offer fader control.

With the CL-8 users now have access to four additional recording tracks (eight ISO tracks, L/R master, and Aux 1 and Aux 2) through the CL-8’s associated firmware, for a total of 12 record tracks. The CL-8 is connected to the recorder over a USB connection and it includes a USB keyboard pass-through port.

CL-WIFI

The new CL-WIFI accessory adds remote iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch functionality to 788T and 788T-SSD Recorders.

When the CL-WIFI hardware is used with the downloadable application from the Apple App Store, 788T users can remotely view, control, and edit audio and file-related information from their Apple

device.The new CL-WIFI accessory adds remote iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch functionality to 788T and 788T-SSD Recorders. When the CL-WIFI hardware

is used with the downloadable application from the Apple App Store, 788T users can remotely view, control, and edit audio and file-related information from their Apple device.

CONTACT DETAILS

Sound Devices, LLC.,300 Wengel Drive, P.O. Box 576, Reedsburg,

Wisconsin 53959 USA

w www.sounddevices.com

t +1 (608) 524 0625

f +1 (608) 524 0655

CL-WIFI

The new CL-WIFI accessory adds remote iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch functionality to 788T and 788T-SSD Recorders.

When the CL-WIFI hardware is used with the downloadable application from the Apple App Store, 788T users can remotely view, control, and edit audio and file-related information from their Apple

device.The new CL-WIFI accessory adds remote iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch functionality to 788T and 788T-SSD Recorders. When the CL-WIFI hardware

The 788T is a powerful eight input, twelve-track digital audio recorder designed for production sound.

Compact, linear fader controller with enhanced

monitoring.

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Though the market for digital recording systems is mature, with many products seeing a convergence of features, there’s still plenty of room for companies to innovate. VB-Audio has been providing software solutions for audio industry since 1999, originally producing a series of professional plug-ins for mastering on the Pyramix platform, as well as native plug-ins for the Windows PC. In 2005 VB-Audio moved into the live arena with a special series of plug-ins especially for the Innovason series of consoles.

VB-Audio’s MT128 is a software-based recording system that has been specifically designed to be integrated into dedicated hardware systems based on Windows PC. 128 tracks of 24-bit audio can be captured and replayed simultaneously at sample rates up to 96kHz; and WAV,

AIFF, and Broadcast Wave files are supported, as is a redundant mirror-recording feature. The DAW aspects of MT128 are what you’d expect from a high-end digital recording system; extensive routing, loop and marker points, auxes and monitor sections, timecode synchronisation and professional system management tools. What marks the M128 out of the ordinary is the way it’s been designed from the ground up as a robust, multi-hardware platform system.

From Conception, To RealityVincent Burel, Managing Director of the company, explains the rational behind the genesis of the MT128 project. “It came about because of the convergence of different facts and ideas. In 2005, there was no really operational solution to record a large number of tracks in reliable way. With the then-upcoming MADI Board from RME, and the possibility to

manage several audio cards synchronised together, it was possible to imagine new

kind of application able to manage a large number of I/O. Finally with the advent of

touch screen, we saw an opportunity to make a simple and easy to use

interface – and this is maybe the most important thing about

the MT128; but which turned out to be the hardest to

realise. Finally, this MT128 project was supplying an answer to the often-asked question; “What comes next after

the likes of the Alesis HD24 or

Tascam X48?”Burel sees the

MT128 as a perfect tool for multi-track recording in a live

situation. “Thanks to its

power and ease of use, the MT128 can easily record 128 tracks on internal Disk (or in RAID mode if required) and at the same time mirror the recording on an external drive.” However, Burel also adds that the MT128 is also extremely useful in recording situations that require instant playback, such as rehearsals, virtual sound checks at gigs (so the band don’t wear themselves out on stage when setting levels), and in fixed installations such as theatres. “Don’t tell anyone, but my secret wish is to see the MT128 entering the project studio and instigating a revival of recording with real musicians!” he laughs.

Flexibility Is KeyThe MT128 was designed from the ground up as a system that can be easily embedded in dedicated hardware based on a PC. This, of course, means that the same interface can be presented to the user or developer, who then can choose which type of hardware is more suitable for which application. “For example, today, the MT128 is embedded in the Eclipse Mixing Console and also as a turnkey system in a 19-inch rack mounted industrial PC by several different integrators and distributors,” says Burel. This hardware flexibility makes the system relatively future proof, as new protocols come on stream. “We could, for example, embed the MT128 in a Tablet PC using new audio network protocols using just a RJ45 connector,” says Burel. “The MT128 will follow the evolution of hardware and audio interfaces easily. Because the MT128 is a transparent device, it really is made for today’s audio digital chain, from digital microphone to digital console and amplifier. The MT128 is easily configured to record all of the audio coming from one or two MADI streams or Ethersound and soon, Dante, Ravenna and so on,” he adds. Currently, amongst other manufacturers, the MT128 is embedded and available in France from Broady Solutions (http://broadysolutions.com/) and in Germany from Jedoba (http://www.jedoba.de), who produces a system, the Maxtraxx MT128, which

Designed from the ground-up to be robust, flexible, and top quality; the MT128 bears all the hallmarks of extraordinary thinking, where little details make a big difference to the user’s experience. Welcome to a new way of going live…

MT128: Less Ordinary Innovation

replayed simultaneously at sample rates up to 96kHz; and WAV,

facts and ideas. In 2005, there was no really operational solution to record a large number of tracks in reliable way. With the then-upcoming MADI Board from RME, and the possibility to

manage several audio cards synchronised together, it was possible to imagine new

kind of application able to manage a large number of I/O. Finally with the advent of

touch screen, we saw an opportunity to make a simple and easy to use

interface – and this is maybe the most important thing about

the MT128; but which turned out to be the hardest to

realise. Finally, this MT128 project was supplying an answer to the often-asked question; “What comes next after

the likes of the Alesis HD24 or

Tascam X48?”Burel sees the

MT128 as a perfect tool for multi-track recording in a live

situation. “Thanks to its

up as a system that can be easily embedded in dedicated hardware based on a PC. This, of course, means that the same interface can be presented to the user or developer, who then can choose which type of hardware is more suitable for which application. “For example, today, the MT128 is embedded in the Eclipse Mixing Console and also as a turnkey system in a 19-inch rack mounted industrial PC by several different integrators and distributors,” says Burel. This hardware flexibility makes the system relatively future proof, as new protocols come on stream. “We could, for example, embed the MT128 in a Tablet PC using new audio network protocols using just a RJ45 connector,” says Burel. “The MT128 will follow the evolution of hardware and audio interfaces easily. Because the MT128 is a transparent device, it really is made for today’s audio digital chain, from digital microphone to digital console and amplifier. The MT128 is easily configured to record all of the audio coming from one or two MADI streams or Ethersound and soon, Dante, Ravenna and so on,” he adds. Currently, amongst other manufacturers, the MT128 is embedded and available in France from Broady Solutions (http://broadysolutions.com/) and in Germany from Jedoba (http://www.jedoba.de), who produces a system, the Maxtraxx MT128, which


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79recorders 2012recorders 2012recorders 2012

THE INTERNATIONAL RECORDERS BUYER’S GUIDE 19

VB-Audio SoftwareBP5 24240 Sigoules, France

w www.vb-audio.com / www.mt128.com

e [email protected]

Distributors: Broady Solutions (France)31 Boulevard Anatole France, 93200 Saint Denis

e [email protected]

Jedoba Maxtraxx (Germany)

Jens Bange, Normannestrasse 18, D-42653, Germany

e [email protected]

integrates the software in a sturdy 19-inch rack unit equipped with a touch screen. This system can be configured with up to 128 channels of digital audio I/O, available in MADI, AES-3, and ADAT format. It also supports Word Clock and Video (Black burst) synchronisation and time code via LTC-I/O, RS-422, MIDI or GPS. The MT128 is also the program behind the M.A.R.S. system, a 64-track player-recorder integrated in the ECLIPSE console from the aforementioned Innovason (www.innovason.com).

“It’s designed from the ground up to be embedded,” says Burel, “It’s maybe one of the first pieces of audio software for Windows that was designed exclusively for embedding and as a complete turnkey system dedicated to recording and playback of audio. The business model is based on the Integrator/Distributor idea, where companies can build and sell their own complete solutions, according their infrastructure and needs.”

The most obvious feature of the MT128 is certainly the touch screen user interface, which has been designed to let the operator manage 128 tracks using just a single finger and with simplicity that Burel says, “is familiar to users of multi-track recorders of old.”

Other novel aspects of the system include the database organisation in Rec-Session, Takes, and clips hierarchy – “Some of the recording options, monitoring capabilities, stereo buses, auxes and delay mark the system out too,” Burel adds. “Technically speaking, there are several innovative points, such as the ability to manage very low audio latency buffers, the remote driver architectures – many small things that makes a big difference for the user in term of security and ease of use.” The system also features a transactional database to avoid project corruption if you have a power failure during use – the system simply picks up from where you had a problem and without file damage.

Obviously, the interface is the focus of the MT128 and Burel says that a lot of work went into its ergonomic design. “The main

difference between the MT128 and competitors is the screen user interface. It has really been designed and programmed as if it were an instrument that you can play with, freely, without having the stress you usually get when operating complicated generalist audio software. And I’m glad to see that some sound engineers are retrieving their old sensations from analogue days with this machine. The MT128 is the next generation of multi-track recorder machine. It is a kind of ‘summary’ of the best ergonomics from the early multi-track tape recorders to the last DTD machine.”

Coming Onto StageIt’s certainly found its way into today’s audio world. The MT128 has already been used in numerous situations – as a multi-track recorder at Les Vielles Charrues and the classical music festival in Saint Denis (both in France) and the Mawazine in Rabat, Morocco. Herbert Grönemeyer used it on his Schiffsverkehr tour, it’s been seen at concerts by Helene Fischer and BAP in Germany, been used for the latest Eddy

Mitchell concert at the Olympia in Paris, and it’s found favour as a as a redundant play out System for the Pet Shop Boys – among others. The MT128 is also used as a playback system for rehearsals and DVD recordings for the musicals We Will Rock You, Hairspray, and The Rocky Horror Show in Germany, as a recorder for the Chinese diva Faye Wong, Jazz in

Vienna, and the Archive tour. Embedded in the Innovason Eclipse console

it’s been used to generate virtual soundchecks at rehearsals at the Toronto Jazz Festival and London’s Royal Opera House, and features as the main or spare playback system on the Eclipse console in ‘Broadway mode’ for the Mozart Opera Rock tour. In addition, the MT128 is used as an audio logger recording up to 128 audio digital signals during TV reality shows, broadcasts of World Cup competitions in several languages in South Africa, and The Robert Schumann Institute in Düsseldorf also makes use of the MT128 for teaching.

All in all, the MT128 is finding its way into systems worldwide – expect to feel its touch under your fingertips sometime soon.

MT128: Less Ordinary Innovation


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80 Zaxcom’s range of products supports industry-leading, professional audio recording/mixing in virtually any environment. With Zaxcom’s technologies, audio professionals enjoy unparalleled features, superior audio quality, a minimal learning curve, and rugged, ergonomic designs. Popular Zaxcom systems optimised for audio recording include:

Nomad Arrives!The latest recording product from Zaxcom is Nomad, a complete location sound recording solution for fi lm and television productions. Specifi cally designed for over the shoulder use, it provides all the functionality necessary to mix, record, and monitor audio in a power effi cient space-saving package. Nomad seamlessly integrates with Zaxcom Digital Wireless, IFB and ERX systems to provide unique functionality in the sound bag.

There are four versions of Nomad in the range – the Nomad 4, Nomad 6, Nomad 8, and Nomad 12. The digits indicate the number of recording tracks available on the model, and feature sets get bigger as the numbers increase as well. Features common to all models include extensive I/O including six balanced mic/line inputs, four balanced line-level camera returns or mix inputs, and slate mic input. The recording system features a 10 second pre-record buffer, MARF and FAT32 fi le support to dual Compact Flash cards, sample rates up to

96kHz, IXML metadata recording, and more. Comprehensive timecode facilities, an internal 32-bit fl oating point mixer with DSP effects available, .CSV recording log, internal slate mic, two headphone busses, and comms output channel are also common to all models; and the list goes on.

Fully loaded, the Nomad 12 can record up to 12 isolated tracks from its 18 analogue and digital inputs, and its internal RF transceiver seamlessly integrates ZaxNet remote control, timecode, and audio transmission. The fi rst part of software roadmap is already written, with a high speed USB storage interface, WiFi USB Modem fi le transfer, three-media recording with MP3 transcription, and a six-channel auto mixer already planned.

Nomad’s internal AA battery pack can run Nomad for one to three hours and functions as a non-interruptible power source in the case of an unexpected external power loss. Zaxcom’s MARF (Mobile Audio Recording Format) fi le system increases reliability even further. If power is lost during your recording session, there’s no fi le loss or memory corruption.

Deva Zaxcom’s Deva family provides multi-disk, multi-track, multi-format recording on location, with automatic backup to DVD-RAM or CompactFlash. With the ability to background-record multiple disks throughout a day, Deva users are able to save time by recording copies at the same time as original recordings, providing a safeguard against lost, damaged, or stolen material with automatically generated backup copies.

The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences recognised the Deva with a 2008 Primetime Emmy Engineering Award. The awards highlight developments in engineering that are either so extensive an improvement on existing methods, or so innovative in nature that they materially affect the transmission, recording, or reception of television. Since its introduction in 1996, Zaxcom’s Deva hard-disk recorder/mixer has revolutionised the entire process of location sound recording for television, and has set the standard for how audio is recorded in the non-linear age.

The company’s latest introduction, the Deva 16, is a complete one-package, 16-track solution for audio recording, mixing, and effects. With eight hardware faders plus an integrated hard drive, DVD-RAM, and CompactFlash memory card slot, Zaxcom’s Deva 16 provides fault-tolerant, multi-disk recording from eight

Zaxcom designs and manufactures audio equipment for sound mixing and ENG professionals. Among the company’s innovative products is the Deva multi-track, multi-format audio recorder, recognised for its ingenuity and performance with both an Emmy Engineering Award and an Academy Award.

Innovative, Superior-Quality Professional Audio Recording


+ + + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + +

UK Distributor

Everything Audio, Ltd. Elstree Film Studios, Shenley Road, Borehamwood, Herts WD61JG, England

t +44 (0) 208 324 2726

w www.everythingaudio.co.uk

Contact: Roger Patel

e [email protected]

In addition to selling its products in the United Kingdom through Everything Audio, Zaxcom also has a number of distributors throughout Europe, including professional A/V companies. Visit www.zaxcom.com, to review a full list of available distributors.

Deva 16 – 16 track hard disk audio recorder.


THE INTERNATIONAL RECORDERS BUYER’S GUIDE 21

analogue mic/line inputs with 48-V phantom power, four analogue line inputs, and eight digital inputs. A 16-channel, 24-bus digital mixer is built into the unit, providing EQ, notch fi lter, compressor, and delay functions on each channel.

Fusion Zaxcom’s Fusion provides a revolutionary approach to on-location, multi-track sound mixing and recording. As a completely portable, solid-state solution, Fusion blends the performance characteristics of hard-disk recorders with the mobility of sound bag systems. The result is a best-of-both-worlds product ideally suited for over-the-shoulder recording and mixing for reality television, electronic newsgathering (ENG), and other mobile video productions.

Fusion provides reliable performance by eliminating hard-disk recording and other moving parts. This, paired with minimal power consumption, ensures that Fusion gives off almost no heat, for fl awless operation in even the most demanding settings. Fusion’s solid-state recording also means the system is far more tolerant to motion and high G force.

Fusion’s world-class microphone pre-amps ensure robust sound, low noise, and low distortion. Fusion records to two CompactFlash cards simultaneously, providing full redundancy and fl exibility in the case of a media failure. The system can even copy fi les to the backup memory card at the same time as it records new material to the primary card. All fi les are

recorded in Zaxcom’s proven MARF fi le system, which safeguards audio recordings even in the event of power loss.

With an intuitive touch screen interface, Fusion allows users to enter metadata directly, keeping the system light and portable. Fusion supports infi nite mixing of any input to any recorded track or output – pre-fader, post-fader, or phase inverted. This feature, along with eight output mix busses, allows the system to support newer cameras that feature four or more recording channels.

Fusion Features: • Operation at up to 192kHz, which is necessary

for sound effects recording • A 16 input mixer with 16 output busses • The capacity to mix all 16 analogue and

digital inputs at the same time• Output soft knee compressors and output

buss on every recorded track (with the effects package)

• Eight XLR inputs, a key feature that allows user to quickly move an input from one channel to another.

• Camera return and camera monitor facilities, including two return inputs that are monitored in mono mode.

• Software-confi gurable metering of the camera send, ensuring it will never be obsolete.

ZFR100 Zaxcom’s ZFR100 is a miniature timecode-referenced audio recorder. The ZFR100 can be used in a sound bag, worn on the body as a belt pack, or applied to any other application that requires a timecode-referenced audio recording. The ZFR100 can record up to 12

hours of audio directly to a removable 2GB MiniSD Flash media card. With Zaxcom’s trademark fault-tolerant recording, no audio is lost even in the case of an ejected memory card or accidental power-down.

The ZFR100’s full-featured timecode reader/generator ensures perfect synchronisation with recorded audio, with an accuracy of one frame every 12 hours (.7716 PPM). The recorder can generate broadcast .WAV fi les or MP3 fi les at 48kHz/24-bits. Ultra-compact for use in virtually any application, the ZFR100 weighs about four ounces, and can be powered for up to 24 hours on just two AA batteries or indefi nitely via an optional 8- to 16-V DC power input. The ZFR100 uses a single mic-level unbalanced input for use with lavalier microphones.

Innovative, Superior-Quality Professional Audio Recording


+ + + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + + Z A X C O M + + + +

CONTACT DETAILS

Zaxcom230 West Parkway, Unit 9 Pompton Plains,

NJ 07444, USA

t +1 973 835 5000

w www.zaxcom.com

e [email protected]

Company History

Glenn Sanders, President of Zaxcom, fi rst launched the company in 1986 to introduce a workfl ow-control system for video editing. The TBC (time base control) system quickly became an industry staple and received an Emmy Award for outstanding achievement in engineering development in 1989.

In 1992, the company fi rst addressed the professional audio market and has since introduced a number of systems designed to help audio professionals keep pace with developments in digital and HD broadcasting.

Sanders and Zaxcom Chief Engineer Howard Stark embraced on-location audio in 1996 with the introduction of the Deva four-channel portable hard disk recorder. This unique product received the Scientifi c and Engineering Award at the 75th Annual Academy Awards in 2003, and was recognised with a Primetime Emmy Engineering Award in 2008. Frequently a pioneer in the audio industry, Zaxcom engineered the fi rst digital wireless microphone and the fi rst wireless microphone to feature integrated audio recording (patent pending).

Fusion – 10 track solid state audio recorder.

STA042 AES Adaptor

All Digital Sound Bag to Camera

Zaxcom recently introduced a new addition to its professional audio equipment family, the STA042 digital stereo adaptor. The STA042 allows ENG audio professionals to transform an existing single-channel Zaxcom TRX900/TRX900AA wireless transmitter into a digital two-channel transmitter sound bag-to-camera link. Pairing a TRX900AA and QRX100 with the STA042 forms a one hundred percent digital audio transmission system.

8222 RECORDER MANUFACTURERS DIRECTORY

AATON

Based in Grenoble, France, Aaton is the manufacturer of a range of audio-visual equipment. Founded by Jean-Pierre Beauviala, the company has produced a range of quiet, portable hardware for location recording. Aaton’s first product targeted at sound engineers was the OriginC+, a time-marking system for location recorders. More recently, the company has produced Cantar, an over-the-shoulder 8-track mixer and recorder.www.aaton.com

AETA

AETA Audio Systems is a leading international developer of portable sound recording units, mixers and advanced audio codecs. It produces the Mixy, 4Minx, and Scoopy+.www.aeta-audio.com

AEQ

AEQ has been developing, manufacturing, and marketing equipment for radio, television, and multimedia for over 25 years. The company has recently developed the PAW 120, a portable AEQ recorder with voice activated recording and XLR adapter for the use of external microphones.www.aeqbroadcast.com

FOSTEX

Founded in 1973 as a speaker component retailer, Fostex has adapted to changing technologies. Although the company still produces speaker components, Fostex made a successful transition to digital in 1995. Recent recording products include the UR-2, a 1U rack size stereo audio recorder with SD and USB storage. Its professional portable range includes the PD606 and PD204 location recorders, and the FR field recorders.www.fostex.com

HHB

Located in London and founded in 1976, HHB is a manufacturer of professional audio recording devices and recording media, and the UK distributor of products from other leading manufacturers via Source, the company’s distribution division. Another specialist division, Scrub, serves the needs of the film and TV post industry from premises in the heart of London’s Soho. Recent recording product ranges include the FlashMic and Portadrive.www.hhb.co.uk

IZ TECHNOLOGY CORP.

iZ Technology was originally formed as a fledgling company of Creation Technologies, and consisted of Barry Henderson and the team responsible for the RADAR I and RADAR II hard disk recorders. In more recent years, iZ Technology has expanded its RADAR line to include the Adrenaline Plus-driven RADAR V line. There are now 2500+ RADAR units being operated in recording studios around the world.www.izcorp.com

JOECO LTD.

JoeCo has been founded by Joe Bull, formerly Managing Director of Studio Audio & Video Limited, the creators of the SADiE Workstation range. Prior to SADiE, he worked as an Audio Engineer both in the studio, and mixing live concerts and festivals. This legacy brings a wealth of experience built up over 30 years of recording and capturing the best performance possible.www.joeco.co.uk

KLARK TEKNIK

In 1974, brothers Phil and Terry Clarke founded Klark Teknik Research Ltd. It was their concepts for graphic EQ devices that really made a name for the company, with the production of the DN370 and DN360.

Klark Teknik continues to innovate in both the analogue and digital realm of audio signal processing. The DN9696 is the company’s high-resolution audio recorder. It offers 96 tracks of 96kHz audio at 24-bit, with nine hours of internal storage.www.klarkteknik.com

KORG CORPORATION

Korg Corporation is a Japanese manufacturer of audio tools. Founded in 1962 as Keio Electronic Laboratories, the company originally produced rhythm machines before its first major success with a series of programmable organs and synthesisers. It went on to become one of the world’s premier manufacturers in synth, sampling, and electronic music products.www.korg.com

MARANTZ PROFESSIONAL

Marantz Professional is part of D&M Holdings Inc. Marantz focuses on high-end audio products, recently producing the PMD661; a professional handheld PCM/MP3 recorder. Superseding the PMD660, this product offers an improved form factor, superior feature set, and the use of SD Flash media. It also features an integrated stereo condenser microphone-array for point and shoot recording, and balanced mic and line XLR inputs.www.marantz.com

M-AUDIO

M-Audio is a provider of creative tools for computer-centric musicians and audio professionals. The company has independent offices in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, France, and Japan.

M-Audio aims to empower musicians to create, perform, and record with complete mobile hardware/software solutions that change when, where, and how music is made. Recent recording products include the MicroTrack II; a handheld location recorder.www.m-audio.com

MAYAH

In 1997 Mayah produced its first audio codec, and since then has expanded its range to include the most recent new firmware generation 4.0 for C11, SPORTY, and FLASHMAN II with extended featureswww.mayah.com

MAYCOM AUDIO SYSTEMS

Maycom grew its reputation with custom-made radio automation systems for broadcasting stations. Since then, it has released a series of location recording equipment. Most recently, Maycom has produced the N>Trans, a Compact Flash-sized audio card that allows laptops and PDAs to be used as location recorders. www.maycom.nl

NAGRA

Nagra Audio has developed a complete range of analogue and digital recorders. Equipment such as the Nagra 4.2 and the Nagra IV-S Time Code are benchmarks in sound recording for film.

In 2008, Nagra introduced the Nagra VI multi-channel digital location recorder; a continuation in the tradition of robust units for on-location recording.www.nagraaudio.com

OLYMPUS

Olympus is undoubtedly best known as a camera manufacturer. However, the company has also produced a significant range of analogue and digital handheld recorders. A recent addition to this range comes in the form of the DS-71. This linear PCM professional dictation device records with a 44.1kHz/16-bit sampling rate, and offers 4GB of internal memory – equating to the potential for over 1,060 hours of recording.www.olympus.com

Recorder Manufacturers Directory

the PMD661; a professional

Superseding

recorders.

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8322 RECORDER MANUFACTURERS DIRECTORY THE INTERNATIONAL RECORDERS BUYER’S GUIDE 23

ROLAND SYSTEMS GROUP

Roland was established in the 1970s, and today produces professional products for the audio and visual industries.

1972 saw the fi rst branded goods released, with the TR-33/55/77 rhythm machines. Their range has since expanded to include the current Sonar REAC recording system and V-Studio 700.www.rolandsg.co.uk

ROSENDAHL

STUDIOTECHNIK

German audio-visual technology manufacturer Rosendahl Studiotechnik produces a range of equipment for recording pros. In addition to a selection of time code boxes, the company is responsible for the bonsaiDRIVE hard disk recorder, a portable video and multi-track audio hard disk recorder. It functions as a stand-alone hard disk recorder and portable media storage device, eliminating the added size and weight of a removable hard disk.www.rosendahl-studiotechnik.de

SADIE

Based just north of Cambridge, SADiE shares its main production and R&D facilities with Prism Sound. SADiE aims to provide its customers with the best tools for the task, whilst ensuring the sonic integrity of the program material.Recent recording products from SADiE include the LRX2, a location audio workstation for the production of location multi-track audio recordings to be released on distributed media.www.sadie.com

SONY PROFESSIONAL

Sony Professional is a long standing leader in the manufacturing of electronic equipment for media, broadcast, and installation markets with a diverse product portfolio that includes cameras, displays, microphones, wireless systems, and much more. Its recorder products include the PCM-D1 and PCM-D50 handheld devices.

www.sonybiz.net

SOUND DEVICES

Sound Devices, LLC, was founded in 1998 as a manufacturer of fi eld-production audio products. Sound Devices’ growing family of audio mixers, digital recorders, pre-amps, and computer interfaces are now used by production professionals worldwide.The company produces digital recorders such as the 744T and 788T, for documentary and feature fi lm production, sound effects gathering, and live music multi-channel recordings.www.sounddevices.com

TASCAM/TEAC

PROFESSIONAL

TASCAM is one of four divisions of TEAC Corporation, a $1.2 billion manufacturing company headquartered in Japan. During TASCAM’s formative years in the early 1970s, the music scene was fl ourishing, but musicians were restricted by the expense of professional recording. It was the company’s goal to manufacture affordable recording equipment that offered the quality of professional studio equipment.Recent recording products include the award winning DV-RA1000HD; and the DR-1 and GT-R1 portable recorders, plus new launches at NAMM 2009.www.tascam.com

VB AUDIO

VB Audio has been producing audio tools for the industry since 1999. It produces the M128 software-based recorder, designed from the ground-up to be robust, fl exible, and top-quality.

www.vb-audio.com

YELLOWTEC

Yellowtec is a brand of the German-based Thum + Mahr GmbH, one of Europe’s leading system integrators for broadcast faciities. Yellowtec’s slogan is ‘simple and smart’, with the defi ning principle of keeping its products simple to use. All of its products, including the iXm recording microphone, refl ect this design notion.www.yellowtec.com

YAMAHA

Over the past 100 years, Yamaha has grown from the manufacturer of Japanese reed organs to a multi-national corporation with a huge range of products. Audio products from this company include the AW1600 and AW2400 digital audio workstations. The AW2400 is the fl agship of the AW line with 24 simultaneous tracks of playback, and motorised 100mm faders. New from Yamaha is the Pocketrak 2G, a handheld digital recorder with internal stereo microphone.www.yamaha.com

YOU/COM

You/Com started out as a trading company, supplying data-and telecoms solutions to the corporate industry. Today, the company is also a manufacturer of hi-fi audio-communication equipment.The ReporterMate is a PCMCIA Flash-card recorder with FTP audio transfer and non-destructive editing. It also features a mixer with gain, compression, limiter, and a voice-over mixing function.www.youcom.nl

ZAXCOM

Zaxcom was founded in 1986 by Glenn Sanders, a post-production professional who saw a need for equipment to create a more effi cient workfl ow. Zaxcom designs and manufactures professional audio equipment such as Deva hard disk recorders, for the television and fi lm industries. It claims the fi rst digital wireless microphone and the fi rst wireless microphone to feature integrated audio recording.www.zaxcom.com

ZOOM

Zoom is a Japanese audio company that produces equipment for both the consumer and professional markets. Its product inventory includes effects pedals for guitars and basses, location recorders, drum machines, and microchip processors. Recent recording products from Zoom include the H2 and the H4 Handy Recorder; a handheld digital audio recorder, featuring built-in condenser microphones in an X-Y stereo pattern.www.zoom.co.jp

recorders 2012recorders 2012recorders 2012Recorder Manufacturers Directory

production audio products.

digital recorders, pre-amps,

are now used by production

The company produces digital recorders such as the 744T and 788T, for documentary

PCMCIA Flash-card recorder with FTP audio transfer and non-destructive editing. It also features a mixer with gain, compression, limiter, and a voice-over mixing function.www.youcom.nl

ZAXCOM

84£199.99 rrp

WaveLab LE software included

Zoom UK, 15 Weston Barns,

Hitchin Road, Weston, Hertfordshire,

SG4 7AX, UNITED KINGDOM

Zoom Corporation

4-4-3, Kanda Surugadai, Chiyoda Ku

Tokyo 101-0062, JAPAN

T: +44-8432-080 999 F: +44-8432-080 666 www.zoom.co.jp @ZoomUK Zoom-UK

ZOOM H2nHandy Recorder

MS•XY•360ºRepresenting a new generation of portable recording, the H2n isZoom’s most innovative handheld recorder to date. We’ve packedgroundbreaking features into an ultra-portable device that allows you to record pristine audio anywhere you go. From film and broadcast,to journalism, podcasting, musical performance, songwriting andrehearsal, the H2n provides amazing recording quality.

• Five new mic capsules provide four unique recording modes • Create stunning 360° surround sound recordings • WAV recording (up to 24bit/96kHz) and MP3 (up to 320kbps) • Data recovery function protects against unexpected errors• 20 hours of battery life• Onboard reference speaker and stereo output• 32GB SDHC card support• USB 2.0 for rapid file transfer and DAW recording

Mid-SideMICROPHONES

Mid-S ide (MS) m icsprovide continuous variable

stereo width control

XYMICROPHONES

XY m icscapture remarkable stereo

depth and clarity

Brilliant Stereo Recording... ...Everywhere you go.

HANDY RECORDER

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recorde guide

Documents

generate word

apple app

internal hard

ipod touch

external usb2

sound effects

rst wireless

reduced track