Tascam MD-801R/P Mk II, MD-801P Mk II owner manual Introduction, About the MiniDisc format

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This manual covers the two models of the MD-801 Mk II product line: the MD-801R Mk II, which is capable of recording and playing back on MiniDisc media, and the MD-801P Mk II, which is for play- back only of such media. Apart from the recording and associated facilities provided on the MD-801R, the functionality and specifications of the two units are identical. For brevity, the unit will be referred to as the “MD-801” in instances where there is no dif- ference between the recording and playback models.

When a section of this manual describes a function which is included as part of the MD-801R only, the section will be marked as below:

R3.12.2Laser pickup time

This indicates how long…

There are no features which are unique to the MD- 801P model.

1.1 About the MiniDisc format

This section provides some basic information regard- ing the MiniDisc format. If more detailed informa- tion is required, the reader is referred to one of the many books on the subject. John Wilkinson, The Art of Digital Audio 2nd ed. Oxford: Focal Press, 1994 is an excellent reference source, particularly Chapter 12, which deals with the use of optical discs in audio applications.

The MiniDisc format (MD) is a convenient form of digital audio media, using optical playback, similar to CDs.

The format of the MD is substantially smaller than that of the CD, and the disc itself is housed in a car- tridge with a shutter, similar to that of a 3.5” floppy disc drive. The disc platter should never be removed from this cartridge.

Pre-recorded MDs, which are manufactured in the same way as commercial CDs, using a stamper pro- cess, are read using a laser beam to read the pits stamped onto the disc.

Recordable MDs are also available, and the technol- ogy used for recording on a recordable MD is magento-optical, allowing the disc to be re-used many times. Shutters on both sides of the disc allow access to the disc surface by the recorder’s laser and magnetic head.

There is a third kind of MD, the hybrid, which con- tains pre-recorded pits at the center of the MD, together with an area reserved for user recording.

1 - Introduction

Full explanations of the principles of magneto-opti- cal recording may be found in a number of excellent reference works, but briefly, during the recording process, the disc is exposed to a strong laser beam which heats the disc’s magnetic medium so that a magnetic field can be applied to change the orienta- tion of the magnetic particles. On cooling, this orien- tation is permanently fixed, unless the disc is reheated and re-recorded.

The MD format therefore provides the convenience and durability of an optical disc format with the reus- abilty characteristics of tape.

1.1.1 ATRAC compression

If a MiniDisc were to be recorded using exactly the same techniques as a CD, the playback time would be only 15 minutes of stereo playback.

However, using a technique known as ATRAC (Adaptive TRansform Acoustic Coding), 74 minutes of stereo audio at 44.1 kHz sampling frequency with a 16-bit word length can be recorded on an MD.

ATRAC uses two important pyscho-acoustic princi- ples to reduce the size of the recorded data: the greater sensitivity of the human ear to mid-range sig- nals, relative to bass and treble signals, and the “masking” effect, whereby quieter signals are hidden by louder ones.

The ATRAC used in the MD-801R/P Mk II is a very recent version of this encoding scheme (4.5), result- ing in an almost inaudible loss of signal quality.

1.1.2 Buffer memory

The ATRAC compression scheme has an additional advantage, as a RAM buffer must be provided for the compressed data, before it is decoded and sent to the D/A converters.

On the MD-801R/P Mk II, this buffer memory holds about 10 seconds’ worth of data. The advantage is that, unlike a CD player, the MD-801R/P Mk II is not vulnerable to mechanical shocks and vibration, etc., which can cause a CD player playback pickup to jump and cause audible skipping.

1.1.3 Random access and U-TOC

The format of a recordable MD is much closer to that of a computer disc than of conventional audio media. The random access nature of the disc media allows a logical “track” to be composed of sections of audio data recorded at different points on the disc.

In the same way that a computer’s operating system hides the details of the way that data is stored on the

TASCAM MD-801R/P Mk II 1–1

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Contents MD-801R@#/ MD-801P@# Important for U.K. Customers Important Safety PrecautionsImportant Safety Instructions Safety Information Table of Contents Use of a keyboard with the MD-801 Remote control of the MD-801Specifications, etc Editing operationsAbout the MiniDisc format IntroductionTrack titling, etc Care of MD mediaCare of MD media About the MD-801R/P MkCare of the unit About the MD-801R/P MkUnpacking the unit Rack-mounting the unitAbout this manual Backup memoryAbout this manual Hookup Examplel Hookup ExamplelFront and rear panel features Front panel Front panel Edit key Play Mode key TOC Write key and indicatorAuto Ready key and indicator Auto CUE key and indicatorDisplay DisplayRear panel Rear panelAnalog Inputs and trimmers Balanced Analog output function DIP switch bankAnalog Outputs Line and trimmers Remote Control connector Mode SET DIP switch bankKeyboard connector Remote Serial connectorJog loop length Menu itemsBasic principles of menu operations Auto cue Frame displayEOM track Resume settingResume setting Timer-controlled playback12Check items Incremental play10Incremental play 11Serial communications15Post-script recording Auto track numbering level13Auto track numbering level 14Copy IDInserting and ejecting discs Basic operationsPlayback of discs Playback of discs 10Track search operations 13Varispeed mode14Jog mode Repeat playbackRecording operations Recording operationsRebuilding the TOC General notes on recording using the MD formatBasic recording Post-Script recording Track number incrementingReplace recording Digital recording Sound synchro recording10Track title copying together with audio Analog recordingDividing tracks Cancelling an edit operationEditing operations Basic editing operationsErasing a track Erasing a trackCombining tracks Moving tracks Moving tracksB point erase operations Normal A-B erase B point erase operationsErasing to the end of a track Erasing from the start of a trackMoving an A-B point Moving an A-B pointRestoring erased material Restoring erased materialChanging track attributes 10Erasing a complete disc Erasing a complete disc11Track and disc title entry Track and disc title entry 11.6Copying disc and track titles Tally indicators Remote control of the MD-801Fader start Remote Parallel connectorSequential playback and recording Error messages and troubleshooting guide Specifications, etcSpecifications SpecificationsGeneral MiniDisc General and electrical Analog I/ODigital I/O Other connectionsRC-8 Remote Control Unit Dimensional drawingDimensional drawing Option RC-801 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.
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