MMR-8 As Master, Biphase Setup Menus

On older film transports that use a tach and a direction signal, the phase A connection comes from the direction signal and the phase B connection comes from the tachometer output. Setup Menu 302 allows the default setting (which is biphase) to be changed to tach+direction. If the transport controls seem to be “backwards” (i.e. Play runs the film in reverse), select the tach+inverse direction choice from Setup Menu 302.

Both menus 301 and 302 are used to set the MMR-8 as a slave to the biphase device (where the MMR-8 will be generating time code or feet & frame numbers off the biphase signal from the film transport). Using the MMR-8 in this way requires that the Biphase Chase operating mode be selected and that the MMR-8 be placed online (the online button is lit up).

The MMR-8 As Master

In many applications it’s desirable to have the MMR-8 function as the master in order to allow remote control of the film transport (either from the MMR-8’s front panel motion controls or from a Lynx controller or a KCU). Built into the MMR-8 are biphase and tach+direction signal generators that can supply the correct motion control signals for most biphase devices allowing controlled film acceleration and fast wind speeds (which are adjustable parameters set through the 300 bank Setup Menus).

When the MMR-8 will be the master, and the film transport will be the slave, the Biphase Transport operating mode is used. In this mode the biphase signal from the MMR-8 is used to generate control signals for the film transport as well as create the time code for running the MMR-8 and other audio devices. Once this operating mode is selected the various 300 bank Setup Menu parameters for the film transport should be checked to ensure they are set for the model of film transport used in the system. These settings can then be saved to a User Settings file for re-use in a future session.

Biphase Setup Menus

Once the biphase operating mode is selected, the 300 bank Setup Menus (Table 5.2) can be used to verify and set the parameters for the specific film transport being used with the MMR-8. For most applications, the acceleration (Menu 320) and fast wind speed (Menu 321) defaults can be used since they correspond to the pulse rate selection (Menu 301). Thus, if they must be changed, they must be changed after the pulse rate has been set, otherwise they will be changed back to the default setting for the new pulse rate.

300	Menu Item	Selection	Choices
300	Biphase Frame Rate	film frame rate	24, 25, 30 fps
301	Biphase Pulse Rate	pulses per frame	2, 4, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100 ppf
302	Biphase I/O	biphase or tach+direction	Biphase, Tach+Direction,
			Tach+Inverse Direction
320	Biphase	film acceleration (ramp up	4 up to 32 times (follows pulse
Acceleration		time from stop to fast wind)	rate choice)
321	Biphase Maximum	fast wind speed setting	1x play up to 20x play speed
Wind Speed			(follows the pulse rate choice)

Table 5.2 Biphase Setup Menus

80	Tascam MMR-8 Owner’s Manual • Chapter 5 • MMR-8 System Applications MMR-8

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.