Tascam MD-801RMKII owner manual 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@# Table of Contents Remote control of the MD-801 Specifications, etcEditing operations Use of a keyboard with the MD-801Introduction About the MiniDisc formatCare of MD media Care of MD mediaAbout the MD-801R/P Mk Track titling, etcAbout the MD-801R/P Mk Unpacking the unitRack-mounting the unit Care of the unitAbout this manual Backup memoryAbout this manual Menu items Basic principles of menu operations Auto cueFrame display Jog loop lengthResume setting Resume settingTimer-controlled playback EOM trackIncremental play 10Incremental play11Serial communications 12Check itemsAuto track numbering level 13Auto track numbering level14Copy ID 15Post-script recordingInserting and ejecting discs Basic operationsPlayback of discs Playback of discs 13Varispeed mode 14Jog modeRepeat playback 10Track search operationsRecording operations Recording operationsRebuilding the TOC General notes on recording using the MD formatBasic recording Post-Script recording Track number incrementingReplace recording Sound synchro recording Digital recordingAnalog recording 10Track title copying together with audioCancelling an edit operation Editing operationsBasic editing operations Dividing tracksErasing a track Erasing a trackCombining tracks Moving tracks Moving tracksB point erase operations B point erase operations Erasing to the end of a trackErasing from the start of a track Normal A-B eraseMoving 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 MD-801R@# MD-801P@#

MD-801RMKII specifications

The Tascam MD-801RMKII is a versatile and professional MiniDisc recorder that has made its mark in the audio industry for its reliability and high-quality sound. Designed primarily for broadcasting, archiving, and live audio applications, the MD-801RMKII boasts several features that make it an essential tool for audio professionals.

At the core of the MD-801RMKII is its ability to record in high-quality stereo sound. The device supports a variety of audio formats, including linear PCM for uncompressed audio and ATRAC for compressed formats. This flexibility allows users to choose the recording quality that best suits their needs, whether for live performances or studio settings.

One of the standout features of the MD-801RMKII is its dual-channel recording capability, enabling simultaneous recording on two separate channels. This is particularly useful for live audio applications where capturing different audio sources at once is essential. Moreover, the unit offers multiple input options, including XLR balanced inputs and RCA unbalanced inputs, providing versatility whether connecting microphones, instruments, or other audio equipment.

The MD-801RMKII is equipped with advanced digital signal processing capabilities, enhancing the audio fidelity and providing options like pitch control and time-stretching effects. These features allow sound engineers to manipulate audio recordings creatively while maintaining high sound quality.

An essential characteristic of the MD-801RMKII is its user-friendly interface, complete with an LCD screen that displays vital information such as track numbers, recording levels, and time remaining. The device also features a comprehensive suite of transport controls, enabling straightforward navigation during the recording and playback process.

In terms of reliability, the Tascam MD-801RMKII is built to withstand rigorous use in professional environments. It includes features such as a robust chassis and the ability to function in various temperature conditions, ensuring consistent performance anywhere from a studio to a live concert.

The integration of MIDI functionality further expands the capabilities of the MD-801RMKII, allowing synchronization with other music production devices. This feature ensures seamless operation with digital audio workstations and other MIDI-compatible equipment.

In conclusion, the Tascam MD-801RMKII stands as a powerful MiniDisc recorder with quality sound, robust features, and versatility that caters to the demands of audio professionals. Whether for recording, archiving, or live performances, the MD-801RMKII remains a reliable choice for those seeking high-fidelity audio solutions.
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