Midi Connections, Lynx Bus / KCU Connection

MIDI Connections

The MMR-8 has MIDI (Music Instrument Digital Interface) In, Out, and Thru connectors. These are used for sending out MIDI Time Code and for controlling the transport functions of the MMR via MIDI Machine Control.

The MMR MIDI OUT connector carries a MTC signal generated by the MMR-8 whenever the unit is in Play. To slave MIDI devices that can follow MTC (MIDI Time Code) to the MMR-8, connect the MMR MIDI OUT connector to MIDI In port of the external device. The MIDI out signal (and the MIDI Through signal, if it is set as a second MIDI output) will contain any MMR-8 responses to the MMC input commands in addition to MTC generated by the MMR-8 from the time code reference source.

The MIDI IN port on the MMR can receive MIDI Machine Control messages for operating the MMR’s basic transport control functions. The MIDI THRU jack on the MMR will pass through any MIDI signals appearing at the MMR MIDI IN port.

External Controllers & Bus Connections

In most installations the MMR-8 will be rack mounted in a machine room and thus will either be remote controlled through slaving to another time code-based machine (typically a VTR) or to a biphase machine (typically a film transport). Any controller that has a Lynx port can also directly control, or be controlled by, the MMR-8 (the TimeLine Lynx Keyboard Control Unit and the TimeLine Lynx-2 module are two examples). There is also a fully featured remote, the Tascam MM-RC, which is specifically designed to control multiple MMR units.

Lynx Bus / KCU Connection

The TimeLine Lynx Keyboard Control Unit (KCU) can be used with the MMR-8. Multiple units may be daisy-chained using either of the two LYNX connectors as input. The other LYNX connector could be tied to another MMR-8, or to a Lynx module for controlling other tape machine transports. The Lynx KCU can control a total of up to six machines.

MMR Sync Bus Connections

The real power of the MMR system comes into play when multiple MMR-8s are tied together using the MMR Bus to create larger “virtual” audio playback machines. The MMR bus supports up to 100 MMR- 8s, all tied together to create up to an 800-track playback system that could be controlled by a single MMR-8, MM-RC Remote, Lynx KCU, or other machine remote controller.

The MMR Bus connects each MMR-8 using a 15-pin connector located on the SYNC card connector on the MMR back panel. Two DB-15 connectors are provided on the back of each MMR-8 so that multiple machines can be daisy-chained together. The system is auto terminating. To add MMR-8 units to the system, connect a cable from the last unit in the chain to the new unit.

The MMR Bus is made active on each machine by choosing the MMR Master or Slave setting in Setup Menu 110, MMR Bus Request. All of the MMR-8s that are tied together can then be software divided (Setup Menu 100) into four Sync Groups, each featuring fully independent control within their group. All of the MMR machines that are connected, Online, and set to the same sync group can then be controlled together. The MMR Bus thus turns three MMR-8s into a single 24-track machine, six MMR-8s into a

48-track machine, and so on up to 100 MMR-8s functioning as a single 800-track machine. Any MMR-8 tied onto the MMR bus can also be individually taken off-line and controlled locally at any time. Recorders can be added or dropped from Sync Groups using the Online key on the front panel.

MMR-8

Tascam MMR-8 Owner’s Manual • Chapter 2 • Installation

MMR-8 specifications

The Tascam MMP-16 and MMR-8 are two innovative products designed to meet the specialized needs of audio professionals, offering advanced features and capabilities suitable for various recording and playback applications.

The Tascam MMP-16 is a versatile audio router and mixer that excels in different environments, from live sound to studio recording. One of its primary features is the 16-channel configuration, allowing for significant flexibility in signal routing. The MMP-16 supports multiple audio formats, including analog signals, making it adaptable to a wide range of setups. It boasts high-quality AD/DA conversion, delivering excellent audio fidelity and low latency performance.

Additionally, the MMP-16 is equipped with comprehensive digital processing capabilities, including EQ and dynamics processing on each channel. This makes it ideal for both mixing live performances and preparing recordings for post-production. The unit's user-friendly interface includes an intuitive display and physical controls that streamline operation, making it easy for both novice and experienced engineers to navigate.

On the other hand, the Tascam MMR-8 is a robust multi-track digital audio recorder that offers exceptional reliability for professionals who require high-quality audio capture. This 8-channel recorder shines in its ability to handle various digital audio formats, ensuring compatibility with different workflows. One standout feature of the MMR-8 is its solid-state recording technology, which enhances durability and reduces the risk of data loss, a crucial aspect in high-stakes recording environments.

The MMR-8 also provides comprehensive onboard monitoring options, allowing users to assess audio quality in real time. Its extensive connectivity options include digital and analog inputs and outputs, facilitating seamless integration with other studio equipment and live sound systems. The data management capabilities of the MMR-8 make it easy to organize and retrieve recordings, while its compact design ensures portability without compromising on performance.

Both the MMP-16 and MMR-8 showcase Tascam's commitment to innovation and quality in the audio industry. Their advanced features, coupled with solid build quality and ease of use, make them essential tools for audio professionals seeking reliable solutions for their recording and mixing needs. Whether utilized separately or in conjunction, these devices amplify creativity and enhance the overall audio production experience.