Fostex FR-2 owner manual Limiter, Selecting the sampling frequency/quantization bit length

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FR-2Field Memory Recorder (Chapter 5: Recording/playback)

Limiter

By using the limiter, the signal level is prevented from exceeding a certain level. In result, the signal level fluctuation is suppressed. Therefore, the limiter is useful when recording a sound whose level is unknown. You can activate the limiter for both L and R channels by setting the [LIMITER] switch to "ON".

The FR-2 limiter uses the VCA (Voltage Controlled Amplifier) circuit. By default, the threshold is -2 dB under the 24-bit full-scale level (all bits: ON) and the com- pression ratio is 1:5. The limiter attack time is fixed to approximately 20 ms, while the release time is fixed to approximately 150 ms.

F (kHz)

48

88.2

96

PRE REC

 

 

176.4

44.1

 

ON

OFF

22.05

 

192

 

 

 

 

 

LIMITER

 

 

 

ON

OFF

REWIND F.FWD

TRIM

-26 +4

-30 -60

-26 +4

-30 -60

ON

OFF

ON

OFF

HPF

(100Hz)

LR

PLAYSTOP

[LIMITER] switch

Selecting the sampling frequency/quantization bit length

You can select the desired sampling frequency ("FS " for short) and quantization bit length ("Bit" for short) for recording by using the [FS (kHz)] and [QUANTIZA- TION] switches on the top panel.

You can select the FS from among 22.05 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 88.2 kHz, 96 kHz,

176.4kHz and 192 kHz, while you can select the Bit between 16 and 24 bit. The current FS and Bit settings are shown on the Home screen. See the available com- bination of FS and Bit settings in the table below.

While receiving a digital signal, the FR-2 automatically detects the FS and Bit from the receiving digital signal, which takes priority over the [FS (kHz)] and [QUANTI- ZATION] switch settings.

 

QUANTIZATION

TRACK MODE

L

 

 

R

 

 

LINE

MIC

LINE

 

[QUANTIZATION] switch

 

16BIT

 

24BIT

MONO

ST

MIC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LINE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

/MIC

 

 

 

 

FS(kHz)

88.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

48

96

PRE REC

 

TRIM

 

 

 

 

 

 

176.4

 

 

 

 

 

44.1

 

ON

OFF

 

 

 

 

[FS (kHz)] switch

 

22.05

 

192

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIMITER

-26 +4

-30 -60

-26 +4

-30 -60

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ON

OFF

ON

OFF

ON

OFF

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HPF

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(100Hz)

 

 

 

FS (kHz)

BIT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

16bit

 

 

24bit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can see the current

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

22.05

Yes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FS and bit length.

44.1

Yes

 

 

Yes

 

 

 

 

 

 

48.0

Yes

 

 

Yes

 

 

 

 

 

 

88.2

 

 

 

Yes

 

 

<Note>: During recording (or input monitor), the FS

96

 

 

 

Yes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and Bit follow the current switch settings.

176.4

 

 

 

Yes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

While stopped (or during playback), the FS and Bit

192

 

 

 

Yes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

recorded on the current file are shown.

<Note>: During recording, you cannot change FS and Bit setting.

If you change the [FS] select switch setting during recording, the switch setting becomes effective when recording stops.

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Contents Field Memory Recorder Model FR-2 Page Safety Instructions Table of contents PC/Keyboard connection Setting cue pointsAudio input/output connection About recording system Recording analog audioConnecting the FR-2 to a PC Menu mode outline Cue menuSetup menu Physical dimensionsAbout this manual Precautions on installation Manual organization Menu mode Exporting audio files to a PC SpecificationsManual conventions Memo Product overview Overview What is in the box FR-2 Carring beltMemo Please read this chapter before using Table of contentsInserting batteries About power supplyOperating on batteries Fit the compartment cover as it was before Reducing the battery power consumptionInsert eight AA-type batteries Ni-HMOperating the FR-2 on the AC adaptor Connecting the AC adaptorTurning on the power About power supply voltage Turning the backlight on or off Setting the display backlight/contrastAdjusting the display contrast Press the Enter key to fix the contrast valueSetting the realtime clock About memory card Inserting/removing a memory cardInserting a card When loading a used FAT32 formatted cardWhen loading a card which is not FAT32 formatted Insert a memory card to card slotWhile YES is highlighted, press the Enter key Use the Menu dial to select YES and press the Enter key Removing a cardWhile the recorder is stopped, press the Card Release key Not Mounted Initial format of a memory card Volume labelDefault volume label examples ATA PCM000 CFC CFC000 While the warning message is shown, press the Enter keyMemo Names and functions Details about screensPhones jack HOME/HOLD Reset keyMenu mode SP/HP Monitor controlMENU/ENTER knob Access indicatorPeak indicators REC Stby Record Standby keyCard Release key Top panelLight Contrast key PRE REC switch FS kHz switchQuantization switch Track Mode switchTrim controls LINE/MIC switchesHPF switches Transport keys Play keyLeft side panel Right side panelBottom panel Home screen When no memory card is setDetails about screens When a recorded memory card is set Menu mode screensWhen a virgin memory card is set FR-2Field Memory Recorder Names and functions FR-2Field Memory Recorder Names and functions Audio input/output connection PC/keyboard connectionAudio input/output connection Analog audio inputsDigital audio output Digital audio inputAnalog audio outputs PC/keyboard Connection Connecting the FR-2 to a PCConnecting the FR-2 to a USB keyboard Recording/playback Skip/locate functionsAbout recording system Recording time in stereo Recording time in monoSelecting the input source Adjusting the input gainRecording analog audio High-pass FilterLimiter Selecting the sampling frequency/quantization bit lengthScreen example during input monitor Level controls Selecting the track modeAdjusting the recording level Monitoring recording signals Checking the remain for recordingMaking recording To stop recording, press the REC Stby keyRecording with PRE REC active About overloadingQuantization switch Recording digital audioAbout default cue name Setting cue pointsSetting a cue point on-the-fly About cue point information Viewing cue point informationDeleting a cue point in real-time 00/08Playback Playback in the CUE mode Cueing playbackSelecting using the CUE / keys Normal audio playbackSkip/locate functions Memo Menu mode Menu mode outline Menu Description Menu itemsCue menu Locating to a cue point LocateRenaming a cue point Rename Use the Menu dial to select Rename and press the Enter keyPress the Home key to exit the Menu mode Enter the desired cue nameEditing time data of a cue point Edit Use the Menu dial to select Edit and press the Enter keyDeleting a cue point Delete Use the Menu dial to select Delete and press the Enter keyUse the Menu dial to select File and press the Enter key File menuSelecting an audio file to be played back Select Use the Menu dial to select Select and press the Enter keyRenaming an audio file Rename Enter the desired file nameDeleting an audio file Delete Character keysPress the Enter key to delete the file Audio file protection on/off Protect Use the Menu dial to select Protect and press the Enter keyRestoring an audio file Restore Use the Menu dial to select Restore and press the Enter keyUse the Menu dial to select Disk and press the Enter key Disk menuSelecting the current drive Select OffOptimizing a memory card Optimize Press the Enter keyFormatting a memory card Format Use the Menu dial to select Format and press the Enter keyEditing a volume label of a memory card Volume Label Enter the desired volume labelMoves the volume label cursor right and left Viewing information of a memory card Disk Info To dismiss the information, press the Enter keySetup menu Date Selecting default file name type File Name ModeUse the Menu dial to select Setup and press the Enter key TakeSetting the default file name Default File Name Select Take No. and press the Enter key Selecting Take numberRenaming the scene name Select Rename and press the Enter keyEnabling the selected scene name Resetting the scene name to the initial nameSelect Reset and press the Enter key Select Select and press the Enter keyAdjusting the real time clock Adjust Real Time Use the Menu dial to enter the desired time dataUnplugged Speaker mute function on/off Speaker MuteAfter entering a desired time value, press the Enter key PluggedWhen selecting Batt Warning Setting error tone output condition Error ToneWhen selecting Input Clip When selecting Disk Remain Press the Home key to exit the Menu mode 44.1kHz/48kHz Selecting the remain display mode Remain Display22.05kHz 88.2kHz/96kHzSetting the digital output signal format Digi Out Type DIFSelecting the battery type Battery Selecting the USB keyboard type Keyboard Viewing the ROM version Version Initializing settings of the Setup menu Init Setup To executing initializing, press the Enter keyFR-2Field Memory Recorder Menu mode/Setup menu Exporting audio files to a PC Connecting the FR-2 to a PC Display shows the first layer of the Menu mode screen Exporting audio data to a computer application example 100101 Click on Convert -, followed by Done see arrow 5 below102 Main specifications USB for USB keyboard connection Digital IN/OUT 176.4 kHz and 192 kHz FS are not supportedUSB for PC connection Power supply DimensionsWeight Quantization and Sampling Frequency106 Declaration of EC Directive Affect of Immunity on This EquipmentMemo Page Fostex CO

FR-2 specifications

The Fostex FR-2 is a highly regarded portable field recorder designed for professional audio engineers, musicians, filmmakers, and sound recordists. Known for its robust build quality, versatile features, and high-quality sound capture, the FR-2 has earned a solid reputation in various recording scenarios.

One of the standout features of the Fostex FR-2 is its ability to record in multiple formats, including Broadcast WAV and MP3, offering flexibility to meet different production standards. It supports 24-bit/192 kHz recording, providing exceptional audio quality that is particularly appreciated in high-fidelity applications. The dual-channel recording capability allows users to capture stereo sound with clarity and precision, making it perfect for capturing live performances, interviews, and ambient sounds.

The FR-2 is equipped with two built-in phantom-powered XLR microphone inputs, which enable the connection of professional-grade microphones without the need for external power sources. This greatly enhances the recorder's utility in field settings where mobility and equipment management are crucial. Furthermore, the unit features a high-performance preamp that ensures low noise levels and superb dynamic range, contributing to the overall sound quality.

An intuitive interface with a large, backlit LCD screen makes navigating the device easy, even in low-light conditions. Users can quickly access settings, track information, and levels, facilitating a smooth recording experience. The FR-2 also offers multiple recording modes, including the ability to create backup tracks, which enhances reliability during critical sessions.

On the connectivity front, the Fostex FR-2 includes Audio Output and Input options, USB support for data transfer, and a headphone output for monitoring. It’s powered by either an internal rechargeable battery or external AC power, providing flexibility for various recording environments.

The rugged design of the FR-2 ensures durability, essential for fieldwork in challenging conditions. Its compact size maximizes portability while maintaining a solid feel, making it a reliable companion for professionals on the go.

In conclusion, the Fostex FR-2 is a versatile and feature-rich field recorder that combines portability with professional audio quality. Its advanced technologies, user-friendly interface, and robust design make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to capture high-quality sound in the field. Whether for music, film, or immersive soundscapes, the FR-2 stands out as a leading tool in the realm of portable audio recording.