8588062100

(428387)

Owners Manual

Digital Multitracker
MR-8HD Owners Manual (Safety instructions/Contents)

CAUTION

RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN

CAUTION:

TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.

ATTENTION:

CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER - SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
POUR EVITER LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES, INTRODUIRE LA LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE LA PRISE ET POUSSER JUSQU' AU FOND.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons. The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the presence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying the appliance.

"WARNING"

"TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE."

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

1. Read Instructions - All the safety and operating instructions should be read before the appliance is operated. 2. Retain Instructions - The safety and operating instructions should be retained for future reference. 3. Heed Warnings - All warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions should be adhered to. 4. Follow Instructions - All operating and use instructions should be followed. 5. Water and Moisture - The appliance should not be used near water - for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool, and the like. 6. Carts and Stands - The appliance should be used only with a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer.
11. Grounding or Polarization - The precautions that should be taken so that the grounding or polarization means of an appliance is not defeated. 12. Power Cord Protection - Power supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the appliance. 13. Cleaning - The appliance should be cleaned only as recommended by the manufacturer. 14. Nonuse Periods - The power cord of the appliance should be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long period of time. 15. Object and Liquid Entry - Care should be taken so that objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the enclosure through openings. 16. Damage Requiring Service - The appliance should be serviced by qualified service personnel when:
A. The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the appliance; or C. The appliance has been exposed to rain; or D. The appliance does not appear to operate normally or exhibits a marked change in performance; or E. The appliance has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.
An appliance and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn. 7. Wall or Ceiling Mounting - The appliance should be mounted to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer. 8. Ventilation - The appliance should be situated so that its location or position dose not interfere with its proper ventilation. For example, the appliance should not be situated on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the ventilation openings; or, placed in a built-in installation, such as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air through the ventilation openings. 9. Heat - The appliance should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat. 10. Power Sources - The appliance should be connected to a power supply only of the type described in the operating instructions or as marked on the appliance.
17. Servicing - The user should not attempt to service the appliance beyond that described in the operating instructions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified service personnel. 18. The appliance should be situated away from drops of water or spray of water. 19. Objects containing liquid such as vase must not be put on the appliance. 20. The appliance is not completely isolated from the power supply even if the power switch is at off position. 21. Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus. 22. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer. 23. An appliance with a protective earth terminal should be connected to a mains outlet with a protective earth connection. 24. An appliance should be placed in a position where an AC plug / inlet can be easily pulled out by hand.

Important Safety Instructions
1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) Read these instructions. Keep these instructions. Heed all warnings. Follow all instructions. Do not use this apparatus near water. Clean only with dry cloth. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet. Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus. 13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped. 12) 11) Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer. Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.

14) 9)

Table of contents
Safety Instructions.....2 Read this chapter first!....9 Introduction....10 MR-8HD main features....10 Precautions before using....11
About power supply....11 Precautions upon installing the MR-8HD...11 Notes on repair....11 About copyrights....11 About damages....11 Note on audio interruption....11 Notes on USB connection with Mac OS...11
The basics of the MR-8HD...12
Recording method....12 About song....13 Remain (recordable space left on the disk)..13 Time base....14 Input and repro monitor...14 TRIM control....15

Names and functions....17 Top panel 1....18 Top panel 2....20 Rear panel.....22 LCD display....23
Home screen....23 Selecting a time base mode...24 Adjusting the display contrast...24 MENU mode screen....25 Warning message...25
Basic operations....27 About power....28
Power connection...28 About the standby mode...28 Turning on the unit....28
Listening the demo song....29
Connecting headphones (or monitor speaker system)..29 Playing back the demo song...30
Creating a song for recording...31

Input connection....33

Input channel....33 INPUT A SEL switch....33 Recording track combinations and available input channel(s).34
Recording onto a single track....35
Preparation for recording....35 Starting recording....36 Playing back the recorded track...36 Undoing recording (undo/redo)....36

Overdubbing basics...37

Preparation for recording....37 Adjusting the recording levels while listening to track 1..38 Starting recording....38 Playing back recorded track...38 Undoing recording (undo/redo)....38
Recording onto four tracks simultaneously...39
Preparation for recording....39 Starting recording....40 Playing back recorded tracks...40 Undoing recording (undo/redo)....40

Basic mixdown....41

Mixdown to an analog recorder...41 Mixdown to a digital recorder....42
Advanced playback and locates functions...x cueing....44 Playback between LOCATE A and B points...44 Play mode....45
Selecting a play mode...45 Auto play mode....46 Auto return mode...46 Loop mode....46 Loop function in auto punch in/out mode..47

Locate function....48

Time locate....48 Locating to the beginning (ABS ZERO) of a song.48 Locating to the recording end point (REC END) of a song..48 Locating to the LOCATE A or LOCATE B point...49 Setting the LOCATE A or LOCATE B point..49 Locating....50
Punch in/out.....51 Punch in/out using the keys on the top panel...52 Punch in/out using the footswitch...53 Auto punch in/out.....54
Setting the punch-in and punch-out points...54 Rehearsal for auto punch in/out...55 Actual auto punch in/out...56
Using effects....57 Using the insert effects...58
Mic simulation effects...58 Amp simulation effects....58
Applying external effects....59 Using the reverb or delay....60
Selecting an effect type....60 Selecting a delay type...60 Adjusting the delay/reverb time....61 Adjusting the effect send levels...61
Using the mastering effects....62
Selecting the desired effect type...62
Track bouncing....63 Preliminary knowledge...64
Track bouncing example...64 Signal flow of track bouncing...65
Bouncing tracks 1 through 4 to tracks 5/6..66
Rehearsal of track bouncing...66 Actual track bouncing....67 Checking the bounced signals on tracks 5/6..67

Bouncing tracks 1 through 6 to tracks 7/8..68
Rehearsal of track bouncing...68 Actual track bouncing....69 Checking the bounced signals on tracks 7/8..69
Bouncing tracks 1 through 8 to a new song...70
Rehearsal of track bouncing...70 Actual track bouncing....71
Mixing signals of inputs A through D...72
Connecting sound sources to INPUT A through INPUT D.72 [TO STEREO BUSS ON/OFF] key setting..72 Panning setting for INPUT A through INPUT D..73
Bouncing the desired part of a song...74 Rhythm guide function....75 Using the rhythm guide function....76
Setting the time signature and tempo...76
Creating the conductor map....78
Setting the signature map....78 Editing a time signature event...80 Deleting an unnecessary time signature event..80 Editing the bar offset...81 Setting the tempo map....82 Editing a tempo event...84 Deleting an unnecessary tempo event..84
MIDI synchronization....85 Synchronization using MTC....86
Connection....86 Settings of the MR-8HD and MIDI sequencer..86 MIDI sync/MTC frame rate settings...86
Synchronization using MIDI clock...87
Connection....87 Settings of the MR-8HD and MIDI sequencer..87
Data export to a personal computer...89 WAV file conversion....90
Enabling the file conversion...90 Procedure of file conversion...90
Exporting data to a personal computer...92
Connection to a personal computer..92 Notes on exporting a file....92 Exporting a WAV file to a personal computer...93
Protecting the hard disk.... Archiving a song....95 Song management.....97 Selecting the desired song....98 Editing a song name...99 Deleting an unnecessary song...100 Protecting a song....101 Track editing....103 Erasing track data....104 Copying/pasting track data....105 Moving track data....107 Exchanging whole track data...108 Part editing.....111
Playing back the part (Between LOCATE A and LOCATE B) to be edited.112 Changing an edit point during editing...112
Editing the part(s)....113 Copying/pasting the part(s)-1...114 Copying/pasting the part(s)-2...116
Copying to the clipboard...116 Pasting clipboard data...117
Moving the part(s)...119 Exchange the parts...120 Other functions....123 Hard disk formatting....124 Peak hold time setting...125 Pre-roll/post-roll time setting...126 Beat resolution mode on/off...127 Phantom power on/off...128 Initializing the MR-8HD....130 Troubleshooting....131 Trouble for recording....132 Trouble for playback....133 Trouble for effect....134 Trouble for USB connection...134 Other troubles....135 MR-8HD Specifications....137 Specifications....138 Physical dimensions....139 Block diagram....140 MIDI implementation chart....142 Index....143 Declaration of EC Directive....144

Precautions before using

About power supply
Be sure to connect the MR-8HD to the power supply specified in the specifications section of this owner's manual. Do not use an AC outlet of any other voltage. Do not connect the MR-8HD to the same AC outlet to which devices that could generate noise (such as a large motor or dimmer), or the devices that consume a large amount of power (such as an air conditioning system or large electric heater) are connected. If you use the MR-8HD in an area with a different power voltage, first consult your dealer or the nearest Fostex service station. The [POWER] switch cannot turn off the power completely. When this switch is "up", the MR-8HD enters standby mode (i.e. the power does not completely turned off). Therefore, if you do not use the MR-8HD for a long time, we recommend unplugging the power cord from the AC outlet. It is very dangerous to use a power cord that is frayed or damage. In such a case, stop using the MR-8HD immediately and ask your dealer to repair the cord.

Notes on repair

The MR-8HD 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 original packing carton of the MR-8HD when you transport or send the MR-8HD to the dealer or Fostex service station for repair. If you have discarded the packing carton, pack the MR-8HD using shock absorbing materials. Fostex is not responsible for malfunction or damage due to incomplete packaging or caused during transportation. Because the MR-8HD is a consumer product, Fostex does not offer on-site service or provide a loaner unit while your MR-8HD is under repair.

About copyrights

It is prohibited by law to use any part of a CD recording or video images or audio data for which copyright is possessed by a third party for commercial purposes such as contents, broadcasts, sales, or distribution-any purpose other than for your personal pleasure.
<Important! > Model name, power requirement, serial number and other information for the MR-8HD are shown at the bottom of the unit.

MODEL MR-8HD

DIGITAL MULTITRACKER

FOSTEX CO. 100 - 230V ~

SERIAL NO.

MADE IN CHINA

About damages
Fostex is not responsible for any "direct damage" or "indirect damage" caused by using the MR-8HD.
Notes on audio interruption
If you make recording or editing to a song many times, audio may be occasionally interrupted when the song is played back, due to data fragmentation. Note that this is not a malfunction.
Precautions upon installing the MR-8HD
Do not install the MR-8HD in locations subject to the following: * Extremely high or low temperature, or significant changes in temperature. * Excessive humidity or dust. * Excessive changes in power supply voltage. * Unstable or significantly vibrating or shaking surfaces. * Near a strong magnetic field (such as a TV or speaker).

Bar/beat mode:

The bar/beat/clock information is created according to the internal tempo map. The ABS zero position is set to "bar -2/beat 1/clk 000" by default (this is called "bar offset"). The MR-8HD determines the bar/beat/clock value in a song in referenced to the bar offset, as well as the time signature map and tempo map. You can set the bar offset between bar 1 to bar -8 via the menu mode (see page 81). The figure below shows the relation between two time base modes. The beginning of a song
0m00s000ms (ABS ZERO) 0m03s000ms 0m06s000ms

ABS time mode

-2bar 1

000clk

1bar 1

3bar 1 000clk

Bar/beat mode
Input monitor and repro monitor
Each of the MR-8HD tracks has two output modes: repro monitor and input monitor. In the repro monitor mode, the track playback signal is output. So if you want to listen to the track playback sound, select the repro monitor mode. In the input monitor mode, the input signal fed to the track is output. So you can check the level of the input signal to be recorded. To enter a MR-8HD track to input monitor mode, press the appropriate [REC SELECT] key to arm the track (i.e. make the track record-ready), then press only the [RECORD] key to enter the "RECORD READY" mode or press both the [RECORD] and [PLAY] keys simultaneously to start recording.
Input signals for recorder tracks Output signals from recorder tracks Playback signal (repro monitor) Track 1 Playback signal (repro monitor) Track 2 Track 3 READY Track 4 READY Track 5 Track 6 Track 7 Track 8 Input signal (input monitor) Input signal (input monitor) Playback signal (repro monitor) Playback signal (repro monitor) Playback signal (repro monitor) Playback signal (repro monitor)

[TRIM] control

You must pay great attention to the [TRIM] control adjustment when recording to the MR-8HD.

INPUT A BAL

INPUT B BAL

INPUT C BAL

INPUT D BAL

INSERT

MIN MAX LINE GUITAR PEAK

ON OFF

PEAK LED
The analog signal received at each input ([INPUT A] through [INPUT D]) is sent to the TRIM control, by which the signal level fed to the A/D converter of the MR-8HD is controlled. You can check this level by the PEAK indicator. If the level is too high, the PEAK indicator lights, while you may hear the sound distorted or noisy. This distortion (noise) generated at this stage cannot be eliminated, therefore, adjust the TRIM control properly so that the PEAK indicator does not light at the loudest part of the input signal.

Proper level

Clipping level

The level is too high.

MR-8HD Owners Manual (Names and functions)

Names and functions

[DISTORTION] control

Controls the amount of the distortion effect for a guitar connected to the [XLR] connector or [UNBAL/GUITAR] jack (phone type) on the [INPUT A] channel. This control is effective only when the [INPUT A SEL] switch is set to "GTR/DIST" (see pages 35 through 40).

[MASTER] fader

Adjusts the stereo (L and R) buss output level (see pages 30 through 39).

Track faders

Each fader adjusts the track playback level. Each of track faders 5/6 and 7/8 controls the stereo signal (see pages 30 through 39).

[TRIM] controls

Each control adjusts the input gain of the corresponding input channel (see page 15, and 35 through 40).

Top panel 2

AMP SIMULATION MIN ROOM MAX HALL 1-4 > 5/6 1-6 > 7/8 NEW 1-8 >SONG STEREO 7/8 >WAV FILE

B / OUT STORE UNDO/REDO

[RHYTHM GUIDE] key
Switches on/off of the rhythm guide function (see page 76). Each press of the switch alternates on and off. A long press of the key enters the rhythm guide menu, in which you can set the rhythm guide parameters (see page 76).

[CONTRAST] key

By rotating the [MENU/ENTER] knob while holding down this key, you can adjust the display contrast (see page 24).
[7/8 > STEREO WAV FILE] /GHI3 key
This key is used when converting a mono WAV file recorded on tracks 7/8 to a stereo WAV file (see page 90). You can export the stereo WAV file to your personal computer over the USB connection (see page 92). In the menu mode, this key is used for character entry of G, H, I, g, h, i and 3 (see pages 32 and 99).
[BOUNCE 1-4 > 5/6, 1-6 > 7/8] / ABC1 key
Selects the bounce mode (see page 63). In the menu mode, this key is used for character entry of A, B, C, a, b, c and 1 (see pages 32 and 99).

[TIME BASE SEL] key

Selects the time base shown on the display (see page 24). Each press of the key switch between "time" and "bar/beat".

LCD display

This 132 x 64 dot LCD display shows various information (see page 23).
[BOUNCE 1-8 > NEW SONG] / DEF2 key
Selects the bounce mode (see page 63). In the menu mode, this key is used for character entry of D, E, F, d, e, f and 2 (see pages 32 and 99).
[MENU/ENTER] rotary/push knob
Pressing this knob enters the menu mode. In the menu mode, rotating this knob selects the item or numeric value, while pressing this knob confirm the setting/selection.
[MASTERING (POWERFUL/NATURAL/ BRIGHT] keys
Used to select the desired mastering effect during track bounce or mixdown. You can select from three effect types by pressing an appropriate key (see page 62). In the menu mode, the [POWERFUL] key is used for character entry of J, K, L, j, k, l and 4, while the [NATURAL] key is used for character entry of M, N, O, m, n, o and 5(see pages 32 and 99).

INPUT A SELECT INPUT A BAL INPUT B BAL
Preparation for recording
1) Connect a microphone to the [BAL] or [UNBAL/GUITAR] input connector of the [INPUT A] channel.
Press the [REC SELECT] key for track 1.
Track 1 is record armed and the [REC SELECT] key for track 1 starts flashing. On the home screen, the remaining time is shown, while "1" for the track number changes to "A".
<Note>: You can supply the phantom power
to a condenser microphone connected to the [BAL] XLR connector (see page 128). Note that you cannot supply the phantom power via the [GUITAR/UNBAL] phone connector.
Set the [INPUT A SEL] switch to "MIC/LINE".
<Note>: You can apply the mic simulation
as insert effects when the [INPUT A SEL] switch to "MIC/LINE" (see page 58).
Set track fader 1 and [MASTER] fader to the nominal position (marked by ).
Raising these faders allows you to monitor the input sound. If these faders are not raised, you cannot monitor the sound via headphones.
<Note>: The fader for track 1 is used to adjust the monitor level. To adjust the recording level, use the [TRIM] control of the [INPUT A] channel.

Starting recording

7) While holding down the [RECORD] key, press the [PLAY] key to start recording.

The guitar is recorded.

Press the [RECORD] key once (the key indicator starts flashing).
Track 1 (which is record armed) now enters " is the input monitor mode and " shown on the home screen.
When recording completes, press the [STOP] key to stop the recorder.
<Note>: We recommend to press the [REC SELECT] key for track 1 to unarm track 1.
Playing back the recorded track
9) Press the [REWIND] key while holding down the [STOP] key to locate the recorder to the beginning of the song. Press the [PLAY] key to start playback.
You can adjust the monitor level using the track 1 fader, as well as the [MASTER] fader and [PHONES VOL] control. If you are not satisfied with the result, use the undo/redo function to cancel the recording and try again.
While playing the guitar, adjust the recording level using the [TRIM] control of the [INPUT A] channel.
Adjust the level appropriately so that the PEAK indicator does not light. Turning the [PHONES VOL] control clockwise raises the headphone monitor level. The screen shows the input level of track 1, as well as the stereo L and R output levels.

<Note>: You cannot perform another punch in/out recording successively. To perform punch in/out recording in another part, stop the recorder and perform the steps above again.
6) 7) Press the [STOP] key to stop the recorder. Rewind the recorder and play back the part you performed the punch in/out recording to check the result.
Locate the recorder to the point before the punchin point, and press the [PLAY] key to start play back.
When the recorder reaches at the point you want to punch in, press the footswitch.
When the recorder reaches at the point you want to punch out, press the footswitch again.

Auto punch in/out

By setting the punch-in and punch-out points in advance, The recorder automatically makes punch in/out recording for you. You can rehearse punch in/out recording as many times you like.
Setting the punch-in and punch-out points
You can set the punch-in and punch-out points on-the-fly while playing back the recorder (as well as you can set them while the recorder is stopped at the desired position).

Punch-in point

Punch-out point
Part replaced with a new recording
<Note>: You cannot make punch-in/out recording
on a song which is protected. Release the song protection before making punch-in/out recording.
<Note>: If you are not satisfied with the
punch-in or punch-out point you set, simply redo the operation above. The new time data overwrites the previous one.
Start playback from the beginning of the song (or from a point before the point where you want to make punching in) by pressing the [PLAY] key. When the recorder reaches at the point where you want to make punching in, press the [LOCATE A/IN] key while holding down the [STORE] key.
The display briefly shows "Store LOCATE A" and the time data when you press the [LOCATE A/IN] key is set as the punch-in point.
LOCATE AUTO PUNCH PLAY MODE A / IN B / OUT STORE UNDO/REDO
Stop the recorder after setting the punch-in and punch-out points, and rewind the recorder to the beginning of the song (or to a point before the point where you want to make punching in). <Hint>: To rewind the recorder to the beginning of the song after setting the punch-out point, press the [REWIND] key while holding down the [STOP] key. To locate before the punch-in point, carry out the following. (1) While the recorder is stopped, press the [LOCATE A/IN] key.
The recorder immediately locates to the punch-in point and stops.
When the recorder reaches at the point where you want to make punching out, press the [LOCATE B/OUT] key while holding down the [STORE] key.
The display briefly shows "Store LOCATE B" and the time data when you press the [LOCATE B/OUT] key is set as the punch-out point.

"1-8 > NEW SONG" mode (see page 70)
In the "1-8 > NEW SONG" mode, tracks 1 through 8 are played back, mixed down to stereo, and bounced to tracks 7/8 of a new song which is automatically created. So this bouncing mode allows you to internally record a stereo master without the need of an external master recorder. In this mode, you can apply a reverb (or delay) to tracks 1 through 4, as well as the mastering effect to the mixed signals. You can also mix signals from the [INPUT A] through [INPUT D] channels during track bouncing. From headphones (or monitor speakers), you can hear the signals bounced to tracks 7/8 of the new song.

Track bounce

Bouncing tracks 1 through 4 to tracks 5/6
You can bounce tracks 1 through 4 to tracks 5/6. Before executing track bouncing, you can rehearse track bouncing as many times as you like.
Rehearsal of track bouncing
Before executing track bouncing, you can rehearse it. While rehearsing track bouncing, 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 are satisfied with the sound. The following assumes that the song you are going to execute track bouncing is loaded.
1) Use the [1-4 > 5/6, 1-6 > 7/8] key to select the "1-4 > 5/6" bounce mode.
Selecting this bounce mode automatically arms tracks 5/6 and changes the monitoring mode for these tracks to input monitoring mode. The display looks like this:
Press the [PLAY] key to start playback from the beginning of the song. While playing back the song, adjust playback levels of tracks 1 through 4 using the track faders.
You can also adjust panning for tracks 1 through 4 and 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.

Lighting Flashing

Faders 1 through 4 Fader 5/6 [MASTER] fader
Playback levels of tracks 1 through 4 for bouncing. Monitor levels of tracks 5/6. Recording master level of tracks 5/6.
Raise the [5/6] fader and [MASTER] fader to the " " position. Set all the other track faders down to the minimum position.
During rehearsal and actual track bouncing, level meters on the screen show the following signal levels.
Checking the bounced signals on tracks 5/6
You can check the bounced signals while the bounce mode is active.
1) Press the [REWIND] key while holding down the [STOP] key to locate the recorder to the beginning of the song. Make sure that the input monitoring mode is turned off. Press the [PLAY] key to start playback from the beginning of the song. Use the [5/6] fader to control the playback level of the bounced signals.

By playing back the recorder while the bounce mode ("1-4 > 5/6") is active, only tracks 5/6 can be monitored. In this condition, you cannot monitor playback signals of tracks 1 through 4 even if you raise their faders. If you want to redo track bouncing, use the undo function to go back to the condition before carrying out track bouncing, and try again.
Meters 1 through 4 Meters 5/6 Meters L and R
Playback levels of tracks 1 through 4. Recording levels of tracks 5/6. Monitor output levels of STEREO OUT (L, R).
By raising the [PHONES VOL] control, you can hear the signals bounced to tracks 5/6. Use the [5/6] fader to control the monitor output levels, and use the [MASTER] fader to adjust the recording levels of the bounced signals appropriately while checking meters 5/6. You can apply the delay/reverb to tracks 1 through 4 and the mastering effects to the stereo L and R signals. See "Using effects" on page 57 for details about the delay/reverb and mastering effects.
<Panning control> You can freely adjust panning for tracks 1 through 4 using the PAN controls. For example, a guitar to left, a vocal to center, etc. 5) After finishing rehearsal, press the [STOP] key to stop the recorder and locate it to the beginning of the song.
Do not move the controls and faders after finishing rehearsal.
<Auto punch in/out of track bouncing> You can bounce only the desired part (between the IN and OUT points) using the auto punch in/out function (see page 74).
<Track bouncing while mixing signals from [INPUT A] through [INPUT D]> When you bounce tracks 1 through 4 to tracks 5/6, you can also mix signals from [INPUT A] through [INPUT D] together (see page 72).

Actual track bouncing

After finishing rehearsal, let's carry out actual track bouncing. Make sure that the recorder stops at the beginning of the song.
Before carrying out actual track bouncing, make sure that the bounce mode is selected to "1-4>5/6". Press the [PLAY] key while holding down the [RECORD] key.
Track bouncing starts with the effect/level settings made in the rehearsal mode. The mixed signals are recorded onto tracks 5/6.
After track bouncing completes, press the [STOP] key to stop the recorder.
Stopping the recorder automatically turns off the input monitoring mode of tracks 5/6.

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.)
Procedure of file conversion
The following assumes that the song whose track data you want to convert is loaded.
Track 7 (L ch) Track 8 (R ch) Stereo (L, R)
While the recorder is stopped, press the [7/8 > STEREO WAV FILE] key to enable the file conversion function.
The display shows the "7/8 > STEREO WAV FILE" screen, on which "ABS0-Rec End" is highlighted.
<Note>: If you are going to make conversion
when no WAV data exists on tracks 7/8, the error message ("Track 7/8 Empty!") appears and the operation is canceled.
You can convert all track data (from ABS ZERO to REC END) or data of a specified part (between the LOCATE A and LOCATE B points).
Press the [MENU/ENTER] knob.
"ABS0-Rec End" starts flashing, and you can now select the conversion range between "ABS0-Rec End" and "LOCATE A - LOCATE B".
<Note>: If you want to convert a part of track
data, you have to set the LOCATE A and LOCATE B points in advance.
Enabling the file conversion
You can enable or disable the WAV file conversion function by pressing the [7/8 > STEREO WAV FILE] key.
1-4 > 5/6 1-6 > 7/8 1-8 > NEW SONG STEREO 7/8 > WAV FILE
To convert all track data, select "ABS0-Rec End". To convert a specified range, select "LOCATE A - LOCATE B".
Rotate the [MENU/ENTER] knob to select the conversion range and press the [MENU/ENTER] knob.
The selection is confirmed and the display returns to the previous screen. "NAME = *********" shows the name for the converted file, and you can enter a desired name. Initially, it shows the name of the source file, therefore, if you do not change the name, the same file name is given. The following assumes that the file name is not changed. For details about how to edit a name, see "Editing a file name" on the next page. When you convert data in the same song more than once, you have to give a different name for each converted file. See the <Note> on the next page.

ABC1 DEF2 GHI3

[7/8 > STEREO WAV FILE] key
Each press of the [7/8 > STEREO WAV FILE] key enables or disables the conversion function. The key lights when the conversion function is enabled.
The file conversion starts and the percent number on the screen counts up as the conversion progresses. To cancel the conversion in the middle, press the [STOP] key.

The display now returns to the part edit menu screen, where Erase Part > is highlighted.
<Note>: If you are not satisfied with the result, press the [UNDO/REDO] key to undo the operation (see page 111).
Copying/pasting the part(s)-1
You can copy the desired part(s) of the selected track(s) and paste it(them) to the same time position of the other desired track(s). The copy/paste operation of a part or parts can be made only within the current song. You can also make the copy/paste operation of a part or parts using another method described later in "Copying/pasting the desired part(s) (2)".
<Note>: You cannot copy/paste track data of a song protected. Release the protection before making the copy/paste operation. <Note>: If you want to paste the copied part(s) to
the desired time position of other track(s) other than the position between the LOCATE A and LOCATE B points, use the method described later in "Copying/pasting the desired part(s) (2)".
Load the song you want to edit. Set the LOCATE A and LOCATE B points for specifying the desired part(s) (see page 49).
You can check the part(s) by playing back between the LOCATE A and LOCATE B points (see page 44).
Rotate the [MENU/ENTER] knob to select "CopyPastePart >", and press the [MENU/ENTER] knob.
The display now shows the screen for selecting the source track(s) and destination track(s) of copy/paste. "<<Back" is initially highlighted.
<Note>: You cannot select the same track(s) for the copy source and destination.
8) Rotate the [MENU/ENTER] knob to select the destination track(s), and press the [MENU/ENTER] knob.
The display now shows the screen for selecting the copy source track(s). You can select the copy source track(s) by rotating the [MENU/ENTER] knob. The available options are: 1 through 8 (mono track) 1/2, 3/4, 5/6 and 7/8 (stereo tracks)
Rotate the [MENU/ENTER] knob to move the cursor to "[ENTER]" at the bottom of the screen, then press the [MENU/ENTER] knob.

M R. 8H D M R.8 m k I I

Dig ital Multitrackers

MR-8HD Main Features

. 8H D MR

8 Recording Tracks to Hard Drive High quality sound - 16-bit resolution at 44.1 kHz without quality-sapping compression

M R.8 m k I I

4 track Simultaneous Recording Great for capturing multiple instruments / vocal parts 4 XLR Inputs With phantom power and trim control Extended Recording Time More than 15 hours of 8-track recording at CD quality Full 8-track bouncing Mix-down all tracks in stereo FAT32 Disc Format and WAV Recording Plus USB port for easy transfer of recordings to PC with WAV Manager software S/P DIF Digital Out For digital mastering to external CD recorder, MD etc. Fantastic Built-In Digital FX Including reverbs, delays, guitar amp simulations and microphone simulations Analog Guitar Distortion Plug a guitar right in - awesome distortion available with dedicated control knob Direct CD-RW Connection Master direct to externally connected USB CD-RW (no PC required)

MR-8mkII Main Features

MR-Series Digital Multitrackers
Their ease of use is only matched by their uncompromising sound quality and huge feature lists.
The Fostex MR-Series are the easiest route into digital multitracking. With their easy to use cassette-like controls youll be creating your next hit within minutes of powering up and pluggin in - it doesnt get any simpler. But dont confuse ease of use with a lack of features as these machines offer awesome, un-compressed sound quality, phantom powered mic inputs, sparkling in-built digital effects, guitar amp and microphone simulation plus crunching analog guitar distortion. Whether you go for the MR-8HD with its large built-in hard drive, 4 fully-featured inputs and 4-track simultaneous recording, or opt for the convenience of the battery or mains powered MR-8mkII which records direct to CompactFlash, youll have everything you need.
MR-8HD 8-track recording to internal HD
All the essential controls are right where you need them - no confusing menus to wade through to crank up the built-in guitar distortion, its right there on the top panel. Real knobs. Real faders. The MR-8HD features 4 balanced phantom powered XLR / unbalanced jack inputs. The 8 tracks record at true uncompressed CD quality to the internal hard drive, theres the facility for 4 track simultaneous recording, built-in mic and guitar amp simulation, reverb / delay and cool mastering effects. Plus, the USB interface and the WAV file recording make it a snap to transfer recordings to and from a PC for further editing / CD burning.
8 Recording Tracks to CompactFlash High quality sound - 16-bit resolution at 44.1 kHz without quality-sapping compression 2 track Simultaneous Recording Great for capturing multiple instruments / vocal parts 2 XLR Inputs With phantom power and trim control Extended Recording Time LP Mode (16-bit/22.05 kHz) doubles recording time Full 8-track bouncing Mix-down all tracks in stereo WAV Recording High Speed USB port for easy transfer of recordings to PC with WAV Manager software Mains Power or Battery Operation Approx. 4 hours operation time with batteries Fantastic Built-In Digital FX Including reverbs, delays, guitar amp simulations and microphone simulations Analog Guitar Distortion Plug a guitar right in - awesome distortion available with dedicated control knob Direct CD-RW Connection Master direct to externally connected USB CD-RW (no PC required)

MR-8mkII 8-track recording to CompactFlash
Quite possibly the dream solution. The ultra-convenient MR-8mkII features superb uncompressed multitrack recording to CompactFlash cards with battery or mains power. This makes it great for instant capture of your inspiration wherever you are; swirling guitar at the beach, mega vocals in an abandoned factory, you name it. You dont even need a microphone - its got one built in. 2-track simultaneous recording is offered, as well as all the effects, simulators and guitar distortion features of its bigger brother. New for the mkII is a High Speed USB port making for faster transfer of files to a PC for further editing.
MR-8HD Interfacing 1 Input A: Unbalanced guitar input or Balanced XLR mic input 2 Insert point (TRS phone jack) 3 Inputs B, C, D Inputs: Balanced XLR and unbalanced jack 4 Master Stereo Out x Headphone Outs with level control
6 USB connector 7 USB Host 8 MIDI Out
9 Optical S/P DIF Out 10 Footswitch

MR-8HD Specifications

RECORDING / PLAYBACK Recording Medium Recording Time Sampling Frequency Quantization A/D & D/A Converters No. of Recording Track No. of Simultaneous Rec. Recording/Reproduction Dynamic Range T.H.D. INPUTS/OUTPUTS Analog In (4ch) Connector Input Level Input Impedance 3.5 inch, hard disk (E-IDE type) Approx. 943 mins (8-track on 40GB) 44.1 kHz (Format FAT32) 16-bit linear (non-compression) 24-bit Delta-Sigma 8 tracks maximum 4 tracks Frequency 20 Hz - 20 kHz 88dB or more (typical) 0.05% or less (typical) XLR-3-31 type (Pin2:hot) and 6mm TRS phone -48dBV (MIC) - +4dBV (LINE) 1.5k ohm or more (MIC/BAL) 40k ohm or more (LINE/UNBAL) 500k ohm or more (GUITAR/UNBAL) Stereo Out (L, R) Connector Output Level Load Impedance Headphones Connector Max. Output Load Impedance MIDI Out Connector Foot Switch Connector Digital Out Connector Format USB 2.0 Hi-Speed USB 1.1 Host GENERAL Dimensions Power Requirement Power Consumption
GETTING A GREAT SOUND MADE EASY

Mic and Amp Simulation

Getting a great vocal or guitar sound has never been easier! Just plug your mic or guitar into Input A (no DI boxes, no pre-amps required) and choose from two types of insert effects: microphone or amplifier simulation. These effects can be used during recording and emulate popular microphone types and guitar amps. 3 types of mic simulation are offered: Dynamic (Professional dynamic microphone) Condenser (studio condenser microphone) Tube (Studio tube microphone) 3 types of guitar amp simulation are offered: Brit Stack (British 800-series tube guitar head) US Metal (High gain metal guitar amplifier) Bass Combo (Popular tube combo amp) In addition, you have full control over the built-in guitar distortion effect. Crank it up!
6mm stereo phone -10dBV (unbalance) 10k ohm or more 2 x 6mm stereo phone 20mW or more (@32 ohm) 16 ohm or more DIN 5 pin 6mm phone Optical IEC 60958 (S/P DIF) 44.1kHz B Type connector A Type connector 312(W) x 264(D) x 88(H) mm, 3 kgs 100V - 230V, 50/60Hz 14W

MR-8mkII Interfacing 1 Input A: Unbalanced guitar input or Balanced XLR mic input 2 Guitar distortion control 3 Input B: Unbalanced line input or Balanced XLR mic input 4 Master Stereo Out x Headphone Outs with level control
6 USB connector 7 Footswitch 8 Input A selector
9 MIDI Out 10 USB Host 11 CompactFlash port

Reverb / Delay

The MR-Series also has 4 terrific types of built-in reverb/delay all featuring the newly-developed algorithm. Room reverb Hall reverb Plate reverb Delay You can apply the reverb or delay to playback signals of tracks 1 through 4 during mixdown and track bouncing.

MR-8mkII Specifications

RECORDING / PLAYBACK Recording Medium Recording Time Recording Format Sampling Frequency Quantization A/D Converter D/A Converter No. of Recording Track No. of Simultaneous Rec. Recording/Reproduction Dynamic Range T.H.D. INPUTS/OUTPUTS Analog In (Input A/B) CompactFlash Approx. 6 mins (8-track on 256MB) FAT16 44.1 kHz (normal), 22.05 kHz (LP) 16-bit linear (non-compression) 24-bit Delta-Sigma 24-bit Delta-Sigma 8 tracks maximum 2 tracks Frequency 20 Hz - 20 kHz (normal) 87dB or more (typical) 0.05% or less (typical) XLR-3-31 type (Pin2:hot) and 6mm TRS phone
-48dBV (MIC) - +4dBV (LINE) 1.5k ohm or more (MIC/BAL) 500k ohm or more (GUITAR/UNBAL) +48v (on/off selectable) 6mm stereo phone -10dBV (unbalance) 10k ohm or more 2 x 6mm stereo phone 20mW or more (@32 ohm) 16 ohm or more 6mm phone B Type connector A Type connector 286(W) x 219(D) x 67(H) mm, 1.6 kgs 100V - 230V, 50/60Hz Fostex AC Adaptor, AD12A DC12V
Input Level Input Impedance Phantom Power Stereo Out (L, R) Connector Output Level Load Impedance Headphones Connector Max. Output Load Impedance Foot Switch Connector USB 2.0 Hi-Speed USB 1.1 Host GENERAL Dimensions Power Requirement Power Supply

Mastering Effects

3 handy mastering effects are included which make getting a great sound a snap. Powerful (Adds power to the sound. Good for rock) Natural (Great for acoustic music) Bright (Gives the mix a snappy feel) You can use the mastering effects when bouncing more than one track to a stereo track or when mixing down tracks 1 through 8 to the master stereo L/R output for external mastering.

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.