Notes on repair

The MR-8 does not use any parts that user can repair easily. Contact your dealer or the nearest FOSTEX service station to ask about repairs. Use the packing carton designed for the MR-8 when you transport the MR-8 to the dealer for repair or return. If you have discarded the packing box, try to pack the MR-8 completely using shock absorbing materials. Fostex is not responsible for malfunction or damage due to incomplete packaging or caused during transport.

The basics of the MR-8

The chapter describes the basics of the MR-8 you should know before using the MR-8.

Recording method

The MR-8 records audio on a CompactFlashTM card. Songs are recorded on a card along with the ABS time (00m00.000s through 60m00.000s). The ABS time shows the absolute time on a card and you can start recording from any desired time within the range between 00m00.000s and 60m00.000s ABS time.
Beginning of the song 0m00.000s 05m00.000s (ABS ZERO) recorded area 10m00.000s 15m00.000s (REC END) 60m00.000s

About song

To understand songs, imagine separated rooms as shown below. With the MR-8, you can create up to 99 songs on a card (although the available space may limit the number of songs).

Song01

Song05

unrecorded area

recorded area

unrecorded area.

Song02
You can record at any point within 60 minutes in ABS time.
As the MR-8 does not consume the card space when no audio is recorded, you can record audio effectively, while the recordable time for a tape recorder depends on the CompactFlashTM card capacity.
0m00.000s recorded area 5 minute recording recorded area 5 minute recording 60m00.000s unrecorded area (remain).

Song03

Song98

Song04

Song99

Song mode

The MR-8 provides two song modes: Normal and Extended modes. You can select an appropriate mode when creating a new song (see page 21).
Each song is independent on a card and you can record, play back or edit a song without affecting other songs. You can give a desired song name for managing recorded songs (see page 57). Recorded track data is stored in a song as mono WAV files, as shown below.

Normal mode:

Audio quality takes precedence over the recording time. In this mode, you can record and play back 8-track audio at 44.1 kHz, 16 bit. The recorded audio can be output digitally from the [DIGITAL OUT] connector, allowing digital copy to an external digital device (such as an MD and DAT).

Track 1

Track 2

Track 8

WAV file

Extended mode:

The recording time takes precedence. In this mode, you can record and play back 8-track audio at 22.05 kHz, 16 bit. You can get longer recording time than the normal mode (see page 16). Note that audio recorded in the extended mode cannot be output digitally from the [DIGITAL OUT] connector.
The MR-8 can convert the two WAV files bounced to tracks 7 and 8 (L and R) to a stereo WAV file (see page 86). You can export the converted stereo WAV file to your USB-connected personal computer, and use the file by a computer music software or burn the file to a CD-R/CD-RW disc for making an original audio CD using a CD-RW drive connected to the computer (see page 88).

Time base

The term, "time base", is used as the reference of recorder position information. Using the [TIME BASE SELECT] key, you can select from among three time base types: ABS, Bar/Beat/Clk and Time counter.

Time counter:

This is similar to the "time counter" mode used for tape recorders. It shows the recorder position within the range between "-60m00.000s" and "60m00.000s" and looks similar to the ABS time, however, you can reset the current position to "0m00.000s" whenever you want (see page 52). Therefore, you can reset a start position of the part which you work with to the zero point (to which you can return by simply pressing the [0 RETURN] key (see page 53). You can see no time base type indication at the right-top.

ABS time:

ABS time stands for Absolute time, which is "striped" on a card when creating a song. It starts from 0m00.000s (=ABS zero, the beginning of a song) and ends by 60m00.000s at maximum. The following screen shows that the recorder is located at 0m00.000s of ABS time, which is the beginning of the song. You can see "ABS" at the right-top.
The figure below shows the relation between the three time base types.
Beginning the song 0m00.000s (ABS ZERO)

0m03.000s

0m06.000s

Bar/Beat/Clk:

The Bar/Beat/Clk information is created according to the internal tempo map. The following screen shows that the beginning position of the song is "bar -2/beat 1/clk 000". You can see "clk" at the right-top.

1. [DC IN] jack

Connect the supplied AC adaptor to this jack (see page 17).

2. [POWER] switch

Used to turn on or off the power. By setting the switch to "LIGHT", the backlight of the LCD display lights up (see page 18).
<Note> When driving the MR-8 by batteries, we recommend not to use the backlight, because the batteries are exhausted quickly.

3. [USB] port

Used to connect with a personal computer using a standard USB cable (see page 88).
6. [INPUT A SELECT] switch
This switch must be set appropriately according to the input source of the [INPUT A] section (see page 29).
Set the switch to this position when the source is an external microphone or line level source. Both the [BAL] XLR and [UNBAL/GUITAR] phone connectors can be used. Set the switch to this position when the source is a guitar connected to the phone connector. Both the [BAL] XLR and [UNBAL/GUITAR] phone connectors can be used. Set the switch to this position when the source is the built-in microphone. Both the [BAL] XLR and [UNBAL/GUITAR] phone connectors cannot be used.

4. [FOOT SW] jack

Used to connect with the optional footswitch (Model 8051) or an unlatched-type footswitch (see page 35).

MIC/LINE

5. [DIGITAL OUT] connector
Used to connect with an external digital device (see page 48).

GUITAR

<Note> Only song data created by the normal mode (44.1 kHz, 16 bit) can be digitally output from this port. Song data created by the extended mode cannot be digitally output.

Side panel

COMPACT FLASH CARD

MIDI OUT

1. Card slot
A CompactFlashTM card is inserted to this slot (see page 16).

2. [MIDI OUT] jack

Used to connect to a [MIDI IN] jack of an external MIDI device (such as a MIDI sequencer) (see page 77).

Bottom panel

1. Battery compartment
To use the MR-8 with batteries, insert six standard alkaline AA-type batteries to this compartment (see page 17).

About recording medium

CompactFlashTM card
The MR-8 uses a CompactFlashTM card (see the illustration below) as a recording medium. On the CompactFlashTM card supplied with the unit, a demo song is recorded. See "Playing back the demo song" on page 19 for details about how to play back the demo song.

1-4 > 5/6 1-6 > 7/8 7/8 > STEREO WAV FILE
When either of the bounce modes is selected, the destination tracks (5/6 or 7/8) are automatically armed and change to input monitoring, as well as the screen shows the appropriate bounce mode.

DELETE

[1-4>5/6, 1-6>7/8] key
Rehearsal of track bounce
Before executing track bounce, you can rehearse it. During rehearsal, you can control the playback level, panning and reverb (or delay) send setting of each source track, as well as apply the mastering effect to the mixed L/R signals. We recommend to make rehearsal thoroughly until you satisfy the sound. The following shows the rehearsal procedure in the "1-6 > 7/8" mode. We assume that recordings have been already made to tracks 1 through 6.
1) Select the song you are going to bounce tracks. 2) Use the [1-4 > 5/6, 1-6 > 7/8] key to select "1-6 > 7/8" bounce mode.
Selecting this bounce mode automatically arms tracks 7/8 and changes the monitoring for these tracks to input monitoring.
5) While playing back, adjust playback levels of tracks 1 through 4 and 5/6 using the appropriate track faders.
You can also adjust panning for tracks 1 through 4, apply the reverb or delay to these tracks, as well as apply the mastering effect to the mixed sound. During rehearsal and actual track bouncing, the track faders and [MASTER] fader control the following signals. Fader 1 through 4 Signal levels of tracks 1 through 4 for recording. Signal levels of tracks 5/6 for recording.
lights up Fader 5/6 flashing
3) Raise the [7/8] fader and [MASTER] fader to the " " position. Set all the other track faders to the minimum position. 4) Press the [PLAY] key to start playback from the beginning of the song.

Fader 7/8 [MASTER] fader

Monitor levels of tracks 7/8.
Recording master level of tracks 7/8.
During rehearsal and actual track bouncing, level meters on the screen show the following signals.
Meters 1 through 4 Meter 5/6 Meter 7/8 Meters L and R Playback levels of tracks 1 through 4. Playback level of tracks 5/6 for recording. Recording level of tracks 7/8. Monitor output levels (STEREO OUT L and R).

Actual track bounce

After finishing rehearsal, let's carry out the actual track bounce. 1) Before carrying out the actual track bounce, make sure that the bounce mode is active. 2) Press the [PLAY] key while holding down the [RECORD] key.
The track bounce starts with the effect/level settings made in the rehearsal mode and the mixed signals are recorded onto tracks 7/8.
By raising the [PHONES VOL] control, you can hear the signals bounced to tracks 7/8. Use the [7/8] fader to control the monitor output level, and use the [MASTER] fader to adjust the recording level appropriately while watching the meter 7/8. See "Applying effects" on page 38 for details

[STEREO OUT (L, R)] jacks
3) Adjust the recording level of the master recorder while rehearsing mixing down.
See the manual of the master recorder for details about how to adjust the recording level.
4) After rehearsing mixdown and adjusting the recording level, locate the MR-8 to the beginning of the song. 5) Start recording the master recorder and then start playing back the MR-8. 6) After finishing recording, stop both recorders. <Tip> By moving up or down the MR-8 [MASTER] fader, you can fade in or fade out recording.
2) Make the master recorder to accept the digital input.
Make sure that the recorder accepts the digital signal output from the MR-8, which is 44.1-kHz, 16bit, S/P DIF signal. Generally, a digital recorder does not have a facility for controlling the digital input level.
3) Use the [MASTER] fader of the MR-8 to adjust the output level.
Adjust the level appropriately so that the level meter of the master recorder shows "0" when the MR-8 outputs the biggest signal. If the level meter exceeds "0", the sound may be distorted.

Digital mixdown

The following is described assuming that you already finished rehearsal of mixdown, as in step 2 of "Analog mixdown" above. 1) Connect the [DIGITAL OUT] connector of the MR-8 to the digital input connector of a digital master recorder.
If the master recorder supports the S/P DIF (optical) digital input, you can make direct connection using an optical cable.
4) Start recording the master recorder and then start playing back the MR-8. 5) After finishing recording, stop both recorders. <Tip> By moving up or down the MR-8 [MASTER] fader, you can fade in or fade out recording.

Digital master recorder

<Note> The [DIGITAL OUT] connector of the MR-8 is the Toslink optical type. If your digital recorder provides only the coaxial type connector, use the Fostex COP1/96 kHz coaxial-optical converter. Contact Fostex or our dealer for details about the Model COP-1/96 kHz.

Playback functions

This chapter describes basic and advanced playback functions of the MR-8. Basic playback
In the following description, it is assumed that a CompactFlashTM card with recorded data is set in the slot. 1) Load a desired song to be played back.
See page 23 for details about how to select a song.
Playback between LOCATE A and B points
When the LOCATE A and LOCATE B points are set, you can playback between these points once. This function is always available regardless of the play mode setting (see "Play mode" on page 50). This function allows you to check the editing part (between LOCATE A and B points) for copy/paste, erase, etc. See "Part editing" on page 68.

2) Press the [PLAY] key to start playback.
The meters on the screen shows playback levels of tracks.
3) Use track faders to control track playback levels, as well as use the [MASTER] fader to control the total level.
If you monitor the sound via headphones, you can use the [PHONES VOL] control to adjust the monitor level.
Note that you have to set the LOCATE A and B points to use this function. See page 53 for details about how to set the LOCATE A and B points.
4) Set the [PAN] control for each track (1~4) to the desired position.
1) While the recorder is stopped, press the [PLAY] key while holding down the [STOP] key.
The MR-8 plays back audio data between the LOCATE A and LOCATE B points once, then stops. During playback, you can monitor playback audio of the desired track(s) by raising the appropriate track fader(s), as well as the [MASTER] fader and [PHONES VOL] control.

3 x playback (cueing)

By pressing the [F FWD] or [REWIND] key during playback, you can monitor playback at 3 x speed. It may be useful for searching a specific position. * Press the [F FWD] key during playback.
The recorder plays back in normal direction at 3 x speed.

LOCATE A point

LOCATE B point
* Press the [REWIND] key during playback.
The recorder plays back in reverse direction at 3 x speed.
If you carry out the operation above when the LOCATE A point is set ahead of the LOCATE B point (i.e. LOCATE A > LOCATE B), the MR-8 plays back audio data between the LOCATE A and REC END points once, then stops.

Play mode

The MR-8 offers special play modes including Auto play, Auto return and Loop playback.

Auto play mode

In the Auto play mode, when executing the locate function, the recorder automatically starts playback from the locate point.
a point where you execute the locate function LOCATE A point a point where you execute the locate function

Selecting a play mode

1. While the recorder is stopped, pressing the [PLAY MODE] key switches play modes among "Off", "Auto Play", "Auto return" and "Loop".

<Tips>

When the protected song is loaded, is shown in the upper right corner of the home screen (indicated by the arrow below). When this icon is shown, you cannot make recording or edit the song.
4) Use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "Protect", then press the [ENTER] key.
The current option ("On" or "Off") flashes. The default option is "Off".
Deleting the unnecessary file in a song
Each song has two WAV file: one for track data, while the other for undo/redo operation. The latter file is called "undo WAV file" and allows undo/redo operation. Executing undo operation consumes the space of the card. Therefore, the more often you execute undo/redo, the remaining space becomes smaller. If you decide not to use the undo function in the recording process, you can delete only the undo WAV file which is not necessary now. By deleting the undo WAV file, you can increase the remaining (recordable) space of a song.
4) Use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "Delete Unused", then press the [ENTER] key.
The display now shows the confirmation screen for deleting the unused (undo WAV) file. In this screen, DEL Unused and Cant Undo! are shown for warning, as well as Yes-> RECORD+YES and No-> NO Key alternately flash.The MR-8 asks for confirmation because you cannot undo deleting the undo WAV file.
You cannot delete the undo WAV file of a song which is protected. To delete the undo WAV file of such a song, release the protection before deleting the undo WAV file. Note that you cannot undo deleting the undo WAV file. By deleting the undo WAV file, you can never execute the undo/redo function for the previous recording/editing. When you make recording/editing after deleting the undo WAV file, a new undo WAV file is created. You can undo/redo recording/ editing made after deleting the undo WAV file.
1) Load the song of which you want to delete the undo WAV file. 2) While the recorder is stopped, press the [MENU] key to enter the menu mode.
To cancel deleting the file, press the [CURSOR ] key.

The display shows "Please Wait!", immediately followed by "Completed!" when the MR-8 completes erasing.
<Note> If you want to cancel the erase operation, move the cursor to "CANCEL" on the screen, then press the [ENTER] key.
<Note> You cannot copy/paste track data of a song protected. Release the protection before copying/pasting track data.
7) Press the [ENTER] key.
The display returns show to the screen in which "Erase Track" is highlighted.
8) Press the [MENU] key to exit the menu mode.
<Note> If you are not satisfied with the result, press the [UNDO/REDO] key to undo the operation (see page 62).
4) Use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "Copy-Paste Trk", then press the [ENTER] key.
The display now shows the screen for selecting the source track(s) and destination track(s) of copy/ paste. "Source Track" selects the copy source track(s), while "Dest. Track" selects the paste destination track(s). The current position information is shown at the top of the screen (shown in Bar/Beat base in the screen example below).
5) Use the [CURSOR / ] keys to select the source track(s) to be copied.
<Note> If a destination track has recorded data, pasting the copied data overwrites the previous data.
9) Press the [ENTER] key.
The display returns show to the screen in which "Copy-Paste Trk" is highlighted.
6) Use the [CURSOR ] key to move the cursor to the option for "Dest. Track". 7) Use the [CURSOR / ] keys to select the destination track(s).
If you select a mono track for the copy source in step 5 above, you can select a mono destination track. If you select stereo pair tracks for the copy source in step 5 above, you can select stereo pair destination tracks.
10) Press the [MENU] key to exit the menu mode.
<Note> You cannot select the same track(s) for the copy source and destination.
8) Use the [CURSOR ] key to move the cursor to "ENTER" on the screen, then press the [ENTER] key.
The display shows "Please Wait!", immediately followed by "Completed!" when the MR-8 completes the copy/paste operation.
<Note> If you want to cancel the copy/paste operation, move the cursor to "CANCEL" on the screen, then press the [ENTER] key.

Moving whole track data

You can move whole data (from ABS ZERO to REC END) of the desired mono or stereo track(s) to the other desired track(s). After the data is moved, the original track(s) is(are) silent.
The display now shows the screen for selecting the source track(s) and destination track(s) of the move operation. "Source Track" selects the move source track(s), while "Dest. Track" selects the move destination track(s). The current position information is shown at the top of the screen (shown in Bar/Beat base in the screen example below).

On the screen for selecting the target track(s) to be edited, you can see the time (or Bar/Beat) information of the current recorder position.
<Playing back the part to be edited> You can listen to audio of the part before carrying out the edit operation. After storing the LOCATE A and LOCATE B points, follow the procedure below for checking. 1. Press the [PLAY] key while holding down the [STOP] key.
The MR-8 starts playback between the LOCATE A and LOCATE B points (see also page 49).
The time (or Bar/beat) value changes in realtime when the recorder moves (i.e. plays, fastforwards, rewinds, locates, etc.). The LOCATE A or LOCATE B point can be changed while this screen is shown. For example, if you move the recorder to the desired position before selecting a track to be deleted, then press the [STORE] key followed by the [LOCATE A/IN] or [LOCATE B/OUT] key, the new editing point is stored. When you carry out the locate operation to the LOCATE A or LOCATE B point and the current position matches the locate point, "LocA=" (or "LocB=") is shown on the left of the time (or Bar/Beat) information, as shown below. "LocA=" (or "LocB=") is also shown when you store the new editing point.
2. During playback, raise the appropriate track fader(s) and the [MASTER] fader.
You can monitor only the part of the editing track(s).
You can change the LOCATE A or LOCATE B point whenever you want (even during the edit operation). See the following for details.
<Undo/redo of editing (except the copy to the clipboard> By pressing the [UNDO/REDO] key after executing the edit operation, you can undo the editing. By pressing the [UNDO/REDO] key after the undo operation, you can return the track(s) to the condition after being edited.
<Notes> If there is not enough space on the CompactFlash card for executing the undo operation, the display shows "Warning Card Full! Can't Undo!" when you are going to make editing. If you carry out any of the following, you cannot undo the editing anymore.
1. Making new recording 2. Making new editing 3. Turning off the power 4. Loading another song

Erasing a desired part

You can erase a desired part on the selected mono or stereo track(s).

] key to highlight the

You can now select a signature.
4) Use the [CURSOR signature.
/ ] keys to select a desired
5) Use the [CURSOR ] key to move the cursor to "[ENTER]" at the lower center of the screen, then press the [ENTER] key.
The new bar and signature setting above is now effective.
3) To exit the menu mode, press the [MENU] key.
You can also exit the menu mode by pressing the [CURSOR ] key as many times as required until exiting the menu mode.
6) To exit the menu mode, press the [MENU] key.

Changing the bar offset

Deleting an unnecessary bar/signature setting
You can delete an unnecessary bar/signature setting from the signature map. 1) On the signature map screen, use the [CURSOR / ] key highlight the bar/signature setting you want to delete, then press the [ENTER] key.
The display changes to show the screen where the bar number flashes.
If you locate the ABS zero point (the beginning of a song) while the time base is set to Bar/Beat/ Clk, the display will show "-2bar 1 00clk" by default. This means the ABS zero point corresponds to "bar -2, beat 1". This offset (the Bar/Beat position at the ABS zero point) is called "bar offset". You can set a desired bar offset if necessary. 1) Bring up the song edit menu screen and use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "Bar Offset" on the first page of the screen, then press the [ENTER] key.
The current bar offset flashes ("-2bar" by default), showing that you can now edit it.
2) Use the [CURSOR ] key to move the cursor to "[DEL]" at the lower right of the screen, then press the [ENTER] key.
The selected setting is immediately deleted. The following shows the screen examples for deleting "16bar -> 3/4".
You can select from among the following options.
option meaning -8bar ABS Zero=-8bar -7bar -6bar -5bar -4bar ABS Zero=-7bar ABS Zero=-6bar ABS Zero=-5bar ABS Zero=-4bar option -3bar -2bar -1bar 0bar meaning ABS Zero=-3bar ABS Zero=-2bar ABS Zero=-1bar ABS Zero=1bar

Creating the tempo map

After setting the signature map, you have to create the tempo map. Like the signature map, the tempo map specifies the tempo at the tempo changing point. Each tempo specified in the signature map is effective until another tempo is specified. For example, you can set the tempo to 120 at the third beat in bar 4, and set to 90 at the second beat in bar 12, etc. By creating the signature map and tempo map, the signature/tempo map is completed, and you can output the guide click or feed the MIDI clock and song position pointer to an external MIDI device. Let's assume to create the tempo map as below. The first beat in bar 1 The second beat in bar 4 The third beat in bar 8 The first beat in bar 12 The fourth beat in bar 16 -> 120 -> 180 -> 90 -> 120 -> 250
2) Use the [CURSOR / ] keys to select a desired option, then press the [ENTER] key.

The selected option is now effective, while "Bar Offset" is highlighted on the screen.
1) Bring up the song edit menu screen and use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "Tempo Map", then press the [ENTER] key.
The display shows the screen for new tempo setting. By default, "1bar 1 -> 120bpm" and "---bar - -> --bpm" are shown. In this condition, the tempo is set to "120bpm" from the beginning to the end of a song. You can create the tempo map as shown above by the following procedure.
2) Use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "---bar - -> ---bpm", then press the [ENTER] key.
The display shows the screen for new tempo setting. Initially, the upper "2" for bar number entry flashes. You can enter a numeric value between 1 and 999.
/ ] keys to enter "180".

flashing flashing

8) Use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "[ENTER]" at the lower center of the screen, then press the [ENTER] key.
The tempo setting above is completed and the display changes to show the tempo map screen, in which the new setting is reflected. If you want to cancel the setting, highlight "[CANCEL]" instead of "[ENTER]", then press the [ENTER] key.

3) Use the [CURSOR

4) Use the [CURSOR setting.
] key to flash "1" for "Beat"
You can enter a beat number between 1 and 8.
/ ] keys to enter "2".
9) Use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "---bar - -> ---bpm", then press the [ENTER] key.
The display shows the screen for new tempo setting as shown in step 2 above. Follow the same procedure as described above until you finish all settings.
10) After completing all settings, use the [CURSOR key to return the display to show the menu selection screen. 6) Use the [CURSOR setting. ] key to flash "120" for "Tempo"
Then, in order to use the rhythm guide function, continue to the procedure for click level setting described on page 85. To edit the tempo map you created, see below.
You can enter a tempo value between 30 and 250.

Editing the tempo map

You can edit the tempo map you created.
Deleting an unnecessary tempo setting
You can delete an unnecessary tempo setting from the tempo map. 1) On the tempo map screen, use the [CURSOR / ] key highlight the tempo setting you want to delete, then press the [ENTER] key.
The display changes to show the screen where the bar number currently set is highlighted, showing that you can now edit it.
1) While the display shows the tempo map screen, use the [CURSOR / ] key to highlight the setting you want to change, then press the [ENTER] key.
2) Use the [CURSOR number.
/ ] keys to enter a desired bar

3) Use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight the beat number currently set.
You can now edit the beat number.
The selected setting is immediately deleted and the subsequent settings go up in the list. The following shows the screen examples for
4) Use the [CURSOR number.
deleting "12bar 1 -> 120bpm".
5) Use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight the tempo value currently set.
You can now edit the tempo value.
6) Use the [CURSOR tempo value.
7) After editing is completed, use the [CURSOR ] key to move the cursor to "[ENTER]" at the lower center of the screen, then press the [ENTER] key.
The new tempo setting above is now effective, while the display changes to show the tempo map screen.
8) To exit the menu mode, press the [MENU] key.

Setting the click level

After creating the signature/tempo map, set the click level finally. In the initial condition, the click is not output (the click level is set to "Off"). Therefore, to use the rhythm guide function, you have to set to output the click at the desired level.
You can select the click level from among levels 1 through 10 and Off (default). Selecting larger level number outputs the louder rhythm guide click.
4) To exit the menu mode, press the [MENU] key.
As described above, you can hear the rhythm guide click by setting the signature/tempo map and click level. The click is output via the stereo buss (L, R), and you can play back or record while listening to the rhythm guide.
1) In the menu selection screen, use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "System", then press the [ENTER] key.
The display now shows the system menu screen, in which "Card Format" is highlighted.
<Note> When mixing down tracks or recording the mixed stereo signals to an external master recorder, set the "Click Level" to "Off". Otherwise, the click is also output from the [STEREO OUT (L, R)] jacks together with the mixdown signals.
2) Use the [CURSOR ] key to highlight "Click Level", then press the [ENTER] key.
The current click level flashes (it is set to "Off" by default).
3) Use the [CURSOR / ] keys to select a desired click level, then press the [ENTER] key.

WAV file conversion

You can convert track data recorded on tracks 7/8 (which consists of an L/R pair of mono WAV files) to a stereo WAV file, which can be exported to a personal computer. The following describes how to convert data on tracks 7/8 (which may be bounced from other tracks or simply recorded in stereo) to a stereo WAV file.
Two mono WAV files recorded on tracks 7/8 are converted to a stereo WAV file as shown below. (Note that only files recorded on tracks 7/8 can be converted to a stereo WAV file.)

<Note on backup> When exporting whole data of a song on a card to a personal computer for backup only, always export the whole song folder, instead of individual track data.
<Tip> By using a card reader for CompactFlash cards on the market, you can back up MR8 song data to a personal computer which does not provides the USB port.
Exporting a WAV file to a personal computer
The following describes the procedure for exporting a WAV file to a Windows ME computer.
1) Turn on the power of the personal computer and the MR-8. 2) Press the [MENU] key to enter the menu mode.
<Important note> Converted stereo WAV files are located in the "2 MIX" folder in the Song folder, as shown below. So you can export only a stereo WAV file in the "2 MIX" folder (indicated by an arrow).
Note that, if you export a WAV file which is located in a folder other than the "2 MIX" folder, the MR-8 may malfunction.
3) Highlight "USB" using the [CURSOR ] key, then press the [ENTER] key (or the [CURSOR ] key).
The MR-8 enters the USB mode, while the display shows the lower screen below.

#####001.wav

*********.wav

#####002.wav

#####003.wav
<Note> While the MR-8 is in the USB mode, no keys except the [STOP] key are ineffective. Pressing the [STOP] key exits the USB mode.
4) Connect the MR-8 to a personal computer using a USB cable.

#####008.wav

5) Open "My computer" on the computer screen.
You see the "Removable disc" drive added on the computer. The first time you connect the MR-8, the device driver is installed automatically.
6) Open the "Removable disc" drive added, and select a desired stereo WAV file in the "2 MIX" folder in a desired song folder, then copy to the computer.
When you open the "Removable disc" drive added, the contents of the card inserted to the MR-8 are shown, in which you can see all the song folders.
Open the "2 MIX" folder in a desired song folder, and select a desired stereo WAV file then copy to the computer. While copying data, the [RECORD] key indicator of the MR-8 flashes, showing that the card is accessed. When completing data copy, the indicator turns off.

TO ORDER CONTACT AN AUTHORIZED FOSTEX DEALER

KEY FEATURES

8 tracks recording & playback 128MB CF Included! Records to CompactFlash (CF) Simple & Easy Interface No menus to navigate Knob/Button for each function On-Board Effects Reverbs Delays Guitar FX Amp Simulator Mic Simulator Mastering USB Port.WAV import/export Archiving CD Burning 2 XLR Mic Inputs 2 Guitar Inputs S/PDIF Digital Output Built-In Microphone Portable - Battery Operated 2 Headphone Jacks
8-Track Digital Multitracker

AT A GLANCE

The Fostex MR-8 is the first solid-state memory recorder in the industry that offers 8tracks of recording on the very popular CompactFlash card media. The MR-8 comes with a very competitive price point, especially compared to the current digital 4-track memory recorders already on the market. Fostexs design goal for the MR-8 was to create a digital multitrack recorder with unprecedented ease of operation for musicians who want digital recording and superb sound quality, but also offers the simplicity of their favorite old analog machine. Nearly all the functions of the MR-8 are on the physical knobs and buttons of the top panel. User frustration caused by having to flip through pages and pages of LCD menus, is not an issue with the MR-8.
8 tracks recording & playback 128MB CF Included! Records to CompactFlash (CF) Simple & Easy Interface No menus to navigate Knob/Button for each function

DETAILS & FACTS

Marketing Context: On-Board Effects Reverbs Delays Guitar FX Amp Simulator Mic Simulator Mastering USB Port.WAV import/export Archiving CD Burning 2 XLR Mic Inputs 2 Guitar Inputs S/PDIF Digital Output Built-In Microphone Portable - Battery Operated 2 Headphone Jacks - 8 tracks of recording instead of 4 - Uncompressed recording offers better quality - On-board XLR mic inputs - USB port insures PC/MAC compatibility for archiving, mixdown, CD-burning - Truly Portable - Extremely easy to learn/use direct interface Competition: Boss BR-532 $395 street, only 4-tracks, most difficult to learn, more expensive Korg PXR4 $399 street, only 4-tracks, least amout of features in category, no XLR mic inputs Zoom MRS4 $249 street, no microphone input, no built-in mic, limited EQ Tascam Pocket Studio $499 street, No MIDI sync capability, expensive, no.wav capability When it comes to getting everything you could want in a recorder at this price-level, the Fostex MR-8 truly offers anything and everything a customer could wantall in a compact, portable package. Main applications include: songwriters, traveling musicians, entry-level recording enthusiasts, and project studios. With just over 2 hours of battery time (6 AA), the MR8 offers an affordable portable field recorder solutiuon where timecode is not needed.
Customer Profile: Entry-level customers who would have considered a 4-track cassette/4-track memory solution. Customers who need a low-cost portable recording solution, any singer/songwriter, and any person who wants to record audio away from their studio. Hot Buttons:
8 tracks recording & playback 128MB CF Included! Records to CompactFlash (CF) Simple & Easy Interface No menus to navigate Knob/Button for each function On-Board Effects Reverbs Delays Guitar FX Amp Simulator Mic Simulator Mastering USB Port.WAV import/export Archiving CD Burning 2 XLR Mic Inputs 2 Guitar Inputs S/PDIF Digital Output Built-In Microphone

FULL FEATURE LIST

The world first 8-track recording into solid state memory (Compact Flash Card). High quality sound recording and playback with uncompressed linear 16-bit/44.1 kHz digital audio (normal mode). 2-track simultaneous recording and 8 tracks playback.
Recording time is about 25 track-minutes with 128MB Compact Flash Card. Extend Mode (16-bit/22.05 kHz) doubles the recording time. Unlike other digital recorders, it offers quite intuitive operation, which is ideal for the users who have no experience in digital multitrack recording. Most of the functions appear on the top panel physically instead of page surfing on LCD. 128 x 64 dot-matrix LCD and self illuminating keys to show current status visually. Digital effects (delay/reverb) with newly developed algorithm for MR-8, as well as Guitar Amp simulation (input A at Guitar position) and Microphone simulation (input A at Line/Mic position) as insert effect. Analog type guitar distortion is available on input A (at Guitar position). Mastering effect for stereo buss: songs after bounce or mix down on track 7/8 can be processed with the Mastering Effects. Digital data (S/PDIF) can be output in stereo from optical output. Built-in USB port for WAV file data transfer between MR-8 and Windows PC for data editing, CD burning (normal mode) and backup. AC and Battery (6 AA alkaline cells) operation.

Portable - Battery Operated Built-in microphone for quick recording of ideas or events 2 Headphone Jacks
Recording/Reproduction Recording Medium Recording Format Sampling Frequency Quantization A/D Converter D/A Converter No. of Recording Track

SPECIFICATIONS

Compact Flash Card VFAT (FAT16) 44.1 kHz / 22.05 kHz 16-bit linear 16-bit Delta-Sigma 16-bit Delta-Sigma 8 tracks (maximum 2 tracks simultaneous recording) Recording/Reproduction Frequency Hz 20 kHz (Normal Mode) 20
Input/Output Analog In (2ch) Connector Input Level Input Impedance Stereo Out (L, R) Connector Load Impedance Output Level MIDI Out Connector Foot Switch Connector Level USB Connector
XLR-3-31 type and f 6mm TRS phone -40dBV (MIC) - +10dBV (LINE) 1.5k ohm or more (XLR)
f 6mm stereo phone more than 16 ohm 20mW or more (at 32 ohm)

DIN 5 pin

f 6mm phone TTL level
B type (data save/load controlled from PC)

S/P DIF Connector Format

Optical IEC 60958 (S/P DIF) 44.1kHz only (Normal Mode)
General Dimensions Weight Power Supply
65 (H) x 215 (D) x 283 (W) mm approximately 1.9 kgs. (1.6 kgs. without AC adaptor) AC Adaptor AD12A (supplied accessory) or 6 x AA alkaline battery
Q: How much record time do I get on a 128MB CF? A: Recording time is about 25 track-minutes with 128MB Compact Flash Card. Extend Mode (16-bit/22.05 kHz) doubles the recording time. Q: How much time do I get of 6 AA battreries A: Just over 2 hours (normal use) Q: Does the MR-8 have phantom power? A: No it does not Q: How can I archive my 8-track data? A: The MR-8 can archive recorded data usinbg either the USB port directly to a PC or Macintosh computer OR it can archive directly out the S/PDIF output Q: What is the maximum CompactFlash (CF) card the MR-8 will accept? A: Currently there is no limitation to the maximum size CF the MR-8 will recognize. At the moment the limitation is dependednt upon current technology of the media Q: How many tracks can the MR-8 record at one time? A: 2 tracks can be recorded simultaneously. Q: Does the optical output support the ADAT lightpipe format? A: No. The optical digital output only supports the S/PDIF stereo format. Q: Can I import/export audio tracks to and from my computer? A: Yes. This is done in the.WAV format using the USB port on the MR-8. To import or export multiple mono files before stereo mixing, a free application MR8 WAV MANAGER is required on the PC, which will be downloadable from the Fostex web site free of charge. Data transfer with Mac requires a third-party CF card reader/writer unit. Q: How do I burn a CD from the MR-8? A: You simply export the stereo mix file via USB to your computer. From there you simply burn the CD as you normally do on your computer Q: What kind of Amp simulation effects are on-board the MR-8? A: BRIT STACK, US METAL, and 60S COMBO. There are various presets within each of these amps Q: What type of Microphone simulators does the MR-8 have? A: There are 3 category types: DYNAMIC, CONDENSER, TUBE Each type contains various microphone models that fit that category type. Q: What type of converters does the MR-8 use? A: 16-bit Delta Sigma Q: What type of MIDI implementation does the MR-8 have? A: MIDI syncronization. Can be a MASTER using MTC or MIDI Clock