Feature Film Sound Effects

Nature Takes

TV and Radio Documentary

Broadcast Programming

Location Sound Recording

Field Memory Recorder

EASY TO USE CONTROLS Taking its cue from the PD-6 timecode DVD location recorder and Fostexs excellent pedigree in portable timecode DAT recording, the FR-2 is ergonomically designed so that all controls fall easily to hand. The large 132 x 64 dot matrix display provides clear and concise information at all times, while innovative features such as automated file/take naming enhance still further the usability.
High Quality Sound Recording
The new Fostex FR-2 has been designed specifically for location sound recording; high quality sound effects acquisition; TV & radio documentary; in fact any application where quality audio recording is required. With excellent quality (up to 24-bit / 192KHz recording - a first for a CF recorder), huge feature list and a cost-effective price point, the FR-2 offers users of portable DAT and other formats the opportunity to make the switch to a more flexible, higher quality audio acquisition machine without sacrificing features.
INTERFACING The FR-2 is very well connected: the two analog inputs switchable between Mic & line on XLR connections link to top quality microphone pre-amps with selectable phantom power, while analog out is offered on RCA connectors. Digital I/O is selectable between AES/EBU and S/P-DIF, again on balanced XLR connections. The USB ports allow direct connection to PC and MAC with an additional port allowing for an external keyboard to be used to aid file naming and operation.

Main Features

Recording industry standard, PCcompatible BWF files (stereo/mono) on a FAT32 media format Up to 24-bit/192kHz uncompressed recording Includes a unique 22.05kHz sampling frequency setting for extended recording Records to both Type II CompactFlash cards and PCMCIA 1.8 hard disk drives*1 Fostexs File per Take system with auto scene & take naming/increment Two balanced XLR microphone inputs with switchable phantom power and top quality, high headroom mic pre-amps 132 x 64 dot matrix LCD screen for ease of use & high visibility in the field Uses AA-sized rechargeable NiMH batteries which are widely available due to the popularity of digital cameras. 8 AA cells will provide approximately 2.5 hours operation when recording to a CF card Easy file transfer to PC/Mac via PCMCIA, CF
ROBUST DESIGN, TOUGH CONSTRUCTION Designed from the ground up to withstand the rigours of in-thefield use, the FR-2 is constructed out of highgrade materials and tried & tested components.
*1 May require software update for PCMCIA HD operation *2 Complies with
adaptor or standard on-board USB connection for data editing and/or backup*2 Quick and easy on-board file naming or via external keyboard through standard USB keyboard port Pre-record loop buffer of approximately 10 seconds*3 Easy software update via CF or PCMCIA card with downloads from the internet Optional timecode generator / reader card
files between takes on location and complies with both US and Euro clapper board standards. In addition, the inclusion of a prerecord buffer (user adjustable) means there should never be another missed take or lost soundbite!

Timecode

The FR-2 can be retrofitted with an optional, fully featured timecode card offering both reader and generator thus turning it into the ideal production and location recorder, whether it be used as a master or backup machine.
Excellent Audio Compatibility
In adopting the BWF Broadcast WAV file format, the FR-2 offers what is now the most popular choice for professional recording. It can be set to record mono or stereo files with 16 or 24-bit quantisation over a vast range of frequencies from 22.05kHz for extended recording time up to 192kHz for the highest quality audio acquisition. Transferring files for editing and/or backup is fast and simple via a Compact Flash reader attached to a computer; a PCMCIA slot and/or a CF adaptor ideal for those editing with a laptop; or indeed the on-board USB port.

All Bases Covered

Excellent audio integrity, fully flexible recording, top quality mic amps, extensive interfacing plus optional timecode prove the Fostex FR-2 has all bases covered.
RECORDING TIME EXAMPLES: A 1GB CF card offers 86 minutes of stereo recording at 16bit/48kHz and 28 minutes at 24bit/96kHz. A 5GB hard disk offers 434 minutes of stereo recording at 16bit/48kHz and 144 minutes at 24bit/96kHz. For full example, please see the back page.

Professional Features

The FR-2 incorporates a number of features developed through Fostexs work in location DVD-RAM recording with the PD-6 and DV40. Automated file/take naming speeds up time spent naming
Windows ME/2000/XP, Mac OS 10.2 or higher *3 Varies depending on sampling frequency"

Specifications

CHOICE OF MEDIA The FR-2 can record to Type II CompactFlash cards and the new breed of PCMCIA 1.8-inch hard disk drives (up to fs 96kHz), offering maximum flexibility and choice. The new 1.8-inch Type II PC Card hard disk drives pack high capacity into a very compact format. Their powerful, lightweight design makes them an ideal acquisition media offering, for example, 289 minutes of stereo recording at 24-bit/48kHz. For operation confirmed media, visit the fostex web site.
GENERAL Recording Media Recording Format Number of Channels Sampling Frequency Quantization PHYSICAL Power Requirement
CompactFlash card, PCMCIA HD BWF Stereo / Mono 22.05 / 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192kHz 16 bit (22.05 - 48kHz), 24 bit (44.1 - 192kHz)
Power Consumption Dimension Weight PERFORMANCE R/P Frequency Response
8 x AA type dry cell (NiMH recommended) AC adaptor (optional) DC 12V approx. 5W 250(W) x 77(H) x 220(D) mm 1.5kg (w/out battery)
INPUT / OUTPUT CONNECTORS ANALOG AUDIO INPUT Connector LINE Input Impedance Reference Input Level Maximum Input Level MIC Input Impedance Input Level Maximum Input Level Phantom Power ANALOG AUDIO OUTPUT Connector Output Load Impedance Nominal Output Level HEADPHONE OUTPUT MAX SPEAKER OUTPUT LEVEL
L/R XLR-3-31 type (Pin2: Hot) More than 6k ohm +4dBu +24dBu (Trim: +4dBu, at the prefader stage) More than 6k ohm -60dBu -40dBu (Trim: +4dBu, at the prefader stage) P48 L(Mono)/R RCA pin type more than 10k ohm +4dBu 50 + 50mW (32 ohm) 1W

Dynamic Range T.H.D.

Power Life
20Hz to 10kHz +/-1dB (fs: 22.05kHz) 20Hz to 20kHz +/-1dB (fs: 44.1 / 48kHz) 20Hz to 40kHz +/-2dB (fs: 88.2 / 96kHz) 20Hz to 80kHz +/-3dB (fs: 176.4 / 192kHz) (ADC-DAC, 24-bit, ref: -20dB, fs:48kHz) Line (input gain: +4dBu): 100dB (typical) Mic: (input gain: -60dBu): 87dB (typical) 100dB (ADC-DAC, 24bit, ref:-20dB, fs:48kHz) typical (ADC-DAC, 24-bit, ref:-20dB, fs:48kHz) Line (input gain: +4dBu): Less than 0.005% (at 1kHz, -1dB typical) Mic (input gain: -60dBu): Less than 0.008% (at 1kHz, -1dB typical) approx. 2 hours 30 min. (8 x AA NiMH type/2300mAH)

DIGITAL INPUT/OUTPUT (except for 176.4, 192kHz) Connector XLR Input Format S/P DIF / AES/EBU automatic Output Format S/P DIF / AES/EBU switchable USB x 2 (keyboard / PC only) TIMECODE CARD (OPTIONAL, T.B.A.) LTC Input/Output LEMO Frame Rate 23.976/24/25/29.97DF/29.97ND/30DF/30ND Gen Mode 24H RUN / REC RUN / FREE RUN / EXT RUN
OPTIONS Model 8347 Timecode Card The FR-2 can be retrofitted with an optional timecode reader/generator card. Using a standard 5-pin locking Lemo connector, the card can be fully configured though FR-2's front panel display to provide all standard frame rates including 23.976 and 29.97drop; pull-up and pull-down and jam sync. The generator can work in 24 hour, Rec Run, Free Run or external, with output being set to repro or gen. The addition of the timecode card allows FR-2 to be used for location recording where portability is key and on sets not requiring an high number of independent tracks. Also FR-2 will become an ideal addition to a sound mixers arsenal also finding a use as a timecode backup machine to his/her main recorder. Model AD12-1300 AC adaptor An AC adaptor is also available for mains power operation.

Recording Times

* All times in minutes
Drive Capacity 1GB 1GB 5GB 5GB
Resolution Fs (kHz) MONO STEREO MONO STEREO

22.944

16 BITS 44.472

44.314

24 BITS 88.157 144

176.78

Distributor / Authorised Dealer

www.fostex.co.jp

Fostex Company, 3-2-35 Musashino, Akishima, Tokyo, Japan 196-0021 Tel: +81 (0)42-546-4974 Fax: +81 (0)42-546-9222
In accordance with our policy of continuous development, we reserve the right to change specifications without notice. E&OE.

FR-2LE 2pp 9-3-07

3/12/07

6:39 PM

Page 1

FR-2LE

Field Recorder with 24bit 96kHz recording to CompactFlash

FR-2LE main features

Recording on Type II CompactFlash card Light weight, yet tough with a highly rigid chassis FAT32 file system & BWF Stereo file format MP3 recording/playback Up to 24 bit 96kHz audio performance 2 x professional phantom powered XLR mic inputs with precise recording level adjustment control ALC (Off/On/Limiter) and HPF (On/Off, 100Hz -12dB/Oct) Built-in stereo microphones for quick memo recording USB 2.0 for high speed file transfer to PC 2 second Pre Rec buffer 1 take = 1 file system (eliminates overwrites) Approx. 8 hours battery operation Wired remote controller with mic attachment belt
Elegant Professional Recording
With a location recording pedigree which includes the original portable timecode DAT machines (PD-2, PD-4), and more recently the innovative PD-6 DVD-RAM recorder, it was only natural that Fostex should develop the FR-2, the acclaimed professional CompactFlash-based field recorder. And now, it seems, Fostex have done it again with the launch of the new FR-2LE - a compact audio recorder designed from the ground-up to meet the needs of professionals in the field. For a start, the FR-2LE records to CompactFlash in Broadcast WAV Format (BWF) at 24bit 96kHz quality. Its equipped with two professional phantom powered XLR microphone inputs (XLR-phone combo) complete with precise control over the recording level. It features a 1 take = 1 file recording system which eliminates overwrites and the 2 second pre-record buffer means there should never be a missed take or lost soundbite. Theres even an MP3 mode and built-in stereo microphones designed for interviews. Feature rich and elegant in operation, the pedigree of the new FR-2LE looks assured.

Effect acquisition

Interview

Musical notepad

Page 2

FR-2LE Highlights

Long battery life The FR-2LE can run up to 8 hours on standard off-the-shelf NiMH batteries Extended recording times Over 12 hours @ 16bit 44.1kHz recording on an 8GB CompactFlash card Professional inputs Dual XLR inputs (XLR-phone combo) with top quality microphone pre-amps, trim control and phantom power. Analog out is offered on RCA connectors BWF or MP3 recording Record up to 24bit 96kHz audio Tough construction Manufactured from high-grade materials and specifically designed for professional location recording
RECORDING / PLAYBACK GENERAL Recording Medium Recording Time File Format Sampling Frequency Quantization
Fail Safe Recording In addition to a 1 take = 1 file system to eliminate overwrites, the FR-2LE also features Auto File Closing which closes files at one minute intervals, thus preserving the data in the event of a power failure. USB 2.0 The USB 2.0 port allows direct connection to PC and MAC for easy file transfer.
Card Capacity 128MB 256MB 512MB 1GB 2GB 4GB 8GB 16 BITS 44.755 694
Compact Flash Card see Recording Time Chart below BWF (Broadcast Wave Format), MP3 (MPEG Layer-3) 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 /96 kHz 16-bit linear (44.1 / 48 kHz) 24-bit linear (44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96) MP3 192bps (stereo) No. of Recording Track 2 tracks (stereo) No. of Simultaneous Rec. 2 tracks (stereo) Recording/Reproduction Frequency 20 Hz - 20 kHz 2dB (FS 44.1/48kHz) 20 Hz - 40 kHz 3dB (FS 88.2/96kHz) S/N (ADC-DAC, 24bit, 48kHz) Line (Input Gain: +4dBu) 95dB (typical) Mic (Input Gain: -60dBu) 85dB (typical) Dynamic Range 95dB (typical) (ADC-DAC, 24bit, 48kHz) T.H.D. (ADC-DAC, 24it, 48kHz) Line less than 0.008% (at 1kHz 1dB, typical) Mic (trim max) less than 0.01% (at 1kHz 1dB, typical) Channel Separation more than 90dB (at 1kHz 0dB) (24bit, -20BFS, 48kHz) Reference Level -12dBFS Locate Memory 99 Cue points per file Battery Operation Time approx. 8 hours (Tamiya RC3600HV, Ni-MH battery) approx. 4 hours (4 x AA Alkaline / Ni-MH battery)

INPUTS / OUTPUTS Analog In (L/R) Connector Line In Connector Input Impedance Reference Input Level Maximum Input Level Mic In Connector Input Impedance Reference Input Level Maximum Input Level Phantom Monitor Out <L, R> Connector Load Impedance Reference Output Level Phones Connector Load Impedance Maximum Output Level USB 2.0 (for PC) Connector Built-in Speaker Maximum Output PHYSICAL Included Dimensions Weight
XLR-Phone Combo Type 6mm dia TS Phone Jack (unbalanced) more than 10k ohm -10dBV +2dBV XLR-3-31 Type (balanced, 2-pin hot) more than 6k ohm -50dBu to -10dBu +2dBu P48 RCA Pin Jack (unbalanced) more than 10k ohm -10dBV Stereo Mini Phone Jack more than 32 ohm 15 + 15mW (32 ohm) Series B Receptacle 300mW

44.251 503

24 BITS 48 88.251

115 231

MP3 192kbps 5549
CF card (128MB), AC Adaptor shoulder strap, remote control and carry pouch 57(H) x 206(W) x 132(D) mm Approx. Approx. 0.8kgs (w/o battery)

Recording Times

* Approximate times in minutes
Distributor / Authorised Dealer

www.fostex.jp

Fostex Company, 3-2-35 Musashino, Akishima, Tokyo, Japan 196-0021 Tel: +81 (0)42-546-4974 Fax: +81 (0)42-546-9222
In accordance with our policy of continuous development, we reserve the right to change specifications without notice. E&OE.