Tascam MD-801R/P Mk II General notes on recording using the MD format, Rebuilding the TOC

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MD-801R model only.

4.3.1General notes on recording using the MD format

Because the MD method of recording is somewhat different to a linear recording method, such as tape, you should note the following points.

The message Disc Full may appear on the display before the available recording time on the disc has all be used.

This may be because more than 255 tracks have been recorded on the disc.

The sum of the total recorded time, and the dis- played remaining available time may not equal the theoretical total capacity of the disc.

This is because of the nature of the MiniDisc track structure. At least two seconds are used for every MiniDisc track, regardless of the audio structure. In addition, “bad sectors”, caused by dirt, scratches, etc. are automatically skipped and ignored, which means that they are unavailable for recording. We always suggest that you leave some “safety net”, and do not attempt to record a program of exactly 74 minutes on an MD marked as 74 minutes.

Erasing a track will not make the time the exact length of the erased track available for recording.

This is on account of the nature of the MD recording format, and has to do with block size, etc. If you are familiar with computer systems, you may be aware of a simiular limitation with regard to file size on some operating systems.

4.3.2 Rebuilding the TOC

It is possible to rebuild the TOC, which will free up recording space if a heavily-edited disc is being used.

1With the MD-801 stopped, press the EDIT key

[18].

2Turn the DATA dial [12] until the display shows:

TOC REBUILD?

3Turn the SHUTTLE wheel [13] clockwise to rebuild the TOC (counterclockwise to cancel the operation).

4When the display shows Complete, and the TOC WRITE indicator [19] lights, press the TOC WRITE key to write the new TOC to disc.

4 - Recording operations

NOTE

Depending on the condition of the disc (how many edits have been performed, etc.), it may take a considerable amount of time for the TOC to be rebuilt. In rare cases, the recording capacity of the disc may not be increased, even after the TOC has been rebuilt in this way.

The number of tracks that have been intentionally recorded, and the number of tracks displayed may not match.

When the transport encounters dirt or scratches, etc., the current track is ended, and a new track is started. This automatically-created track is marked by the let- ters “Cont !!” being added to the end of the track title. This “track” cannot be combined using the editing methods available. To avoid the occurence of such “tracks”, it is important to keep the MD media clean and dust-free.

NOTE

Every time recording is halted, the TOC is updated. As always, avoid turning off the power while the TOC is being written. In addi- tion, you should be aware that if you have performed editing operations that you do not want to commit to disc, and then do some recording, the edit operations will be saved to disc when recording stops. You may want to eject the disc without writing the edits (see

[3]) before recording, to avoid this situation.

Like most other forms of recordable media, MDs incorporate a write-protect tab, which can prevent you from accidentally overwriting precious record- ings. If you try recording with a disc that has had the tab set to the “protect” position (open), the display will show:

W _ Protected!

If you want to record on this disc, you must eject the disc, close the write-protect tab and record again.

4.3.3 Basic recording

This gives the basic instructions on how to record. There are a number of different recording-related options which may be selected, as described else- where in this section.

TASCAM MD-801R/P Mk II 4–5

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Contents MD-801R@#/ MD-801P@# Important for U.K. Customers Important Safety PrecautionsImportant Safety Instructions Safety Information Table of Contents Specifications, etc Remote control of the MD-801Editing operations Use of a keyboard with the MD-801About the MiniDisc format IntroductionCare of MD media Care of MD mediaAbout the MD-801R/P Mk Track titling, etcUnpacking the unit About the MD-801R/P MkRack-mounting the unit Care of the unitAbout this manual Backup memoryAbout this manual Hookup Examplel Hookup ExamplelFront and rear panel features Front panel Front panel Edit key Auto Ready key and indicator TOC Write key and indicatorAuto CUE key and indicator Play Mode keyDisplay DisplayRear panel Rear panelAnalog Outputs Line and trimmers Analog output function DIP switch bankAnalog Inputs and trimmers Balanced Keyboard connector Mode SET DIP switch bankRemote Serial connector Remote Control connectorBasic principles of menu operations Auto cue Menu itemsFrame display Jog loop lengthResume setting Resume settingTimer-controlled playback EOM track10Incremental play Incremental play11Serial communications 12Check items13Auto track numbering level Auto track numbering level14Copy ID 15Post-script recordingPlayback of discs Basic operationsInserting and ejecting discs Playback of discs 14Jog mode 13Varispeed modeRepeat playback 10Track search operationsRecording operations Recording operationsBasic recording General notes on recording using the MD formatRebuilding the TOC Replace recording Track number incrementingPost-Script recording Digital recording Sound synchro recording10Track title copying together with audio Analog recordingEditing operations Cancelling an edit operationBasic editing operations Dividing tracksCombining tracks Erasing a trackErasing a track B point erase operations Moving tracksMoving tracks Erasing to the end of a track B point erase operationsErasing from the start of a track Normal A-B eraseMoving an A-B point Moving an A-B pointChanging track attributes Restoring erased materialRestoring erased material 11Track and disc title entry Erasing a complete disc10Erasing a complete disc Track and disc title entry 11.6Copying disc and track titles Tally indicators Remote control of the MD-801Sequential playback and recording Remote Parallel connectorFader start Error messages and troubleshooting guide Specifications, etcGeneral MiniDisc SpecificationsSpecifications Digital I/O Analog I/OOther connections General and electricalDimensional drawing Option Dimensional drawingRC-801 Remote Control Unit RC-8 Remote Control UnitAES/EBU Digital Input Index a EEOM Index F PSync IN, Word Sync THRU, Word Index R TIndex U W MD-801R@# MD-801P@#

MD-801R/P Mk II, MD-801P Mk II specifications

The Tascam MD-801P Mk II and MD-801R/P Mk II are professional MiniDisc players and recorders that cater to a wide range of audio applications. Recognized for their resilient build quality and impressive sound fidelity, these models bring versatility and reliability to both studio and live environments.

One of the standout features of the MD-801P Mk II and MD-801R/P Mk II is their compatibility with both Playback and Recording functionalities. With support for the MiniDisc format, these devices enable users to record and playback high-quality audio. The MD-801P Mk II focuses on playback, while the MD-801R/P Mk II combines recording and playback capabilities, making it suitable for various audio production needs.

Another notable feature is their digital input and output. Both models are equipped with optical digital connections, ensuring minimal signal degradation during transfer. This is especially valuable for professionals looking to maintain the integrity of their recordings. Additionally, the devices offer analog connections, enhancing their versatility and enabling integration into different audio setups.

The MD-801P Mk II and MD-801R/P Mk II benefit from advanced error correction technology. This aids in maintaining audio quality, even when the disc is scratched or other minor issues occur. The robust error correction systems allow for reliable performance that professionals can depend on, whether in mastering sessions or during live events.

The user interface is designed with simplicity in mind. The clear LCD display provides essential information at a glance, while the intuitive layout of controls allows for easy navigation through functions and settings. Fast access to features like track selection and recording settings empowers users to focus on creativity without unnecessary distractions.

Furthermore, the compact form factor of the MD-801 series makes them ideal for mobile applications, fitting well into both travel and live sound rig setups. Their sturdy construction protects against the rigors of transport, securing the investment for audio professionals.

In conclusion, the Tascam MD-801P Mk II and MD-801R/P Mk II stand out as dependable tools for musicians, sound engineers, and content creators. By combining high-quality audio handling, strong build design, and user-friendly operation, these MiniDisc recorders play an essential role in various audio workflows, ensuring that the delivery of audio remains exceptional and professional.