Names and Functions

11. Data output jack [DATA OUT] (Connector: OPTICAL)

Connect this jack to the OPTICAL digital input of an external digital device to save song data to a DAT or to record digitally to a digital device (MD, DAT, CD-R, etc.).

DATA

OUT

Refer to pages 52 and 76 for more information on using the

DATA OUT jack.

12. Data input jack [DATA IN] (Connector: OPTICAL)

Connect this jack to the OPTICAL digital output of an external digital device to load song data from a DAT or to record data digitally from a digital device (MD, DAT, CD-R, etc.) to the FD-4.

DATA

IN

Refer to pages 52 and 76 for more information on using the

DATA IN jack.

13.SCSI connector [SCSI] (Connector: D-SUB 25-pin)

Connect an external SCSI drive as the recording media for the FD-4.

SCSI

Refer to page 5 for more information on connecting an external

SCSI drive.

14. Power cable

Connect the power cable to an AC outlet.

Display Section

The FD-4 uses a liquid crystal display which integrates a 9- digit/35-dot message section, 7-segment display section, and level meters.

The level meters indicate the output level of tracks 1-4 and stereo out L/R.

The time display shows various temporal information in different units, such as ABS time (absolute time), MTC (MIDI timecode), BAR/BEAT/CLK (bar/beat/clock), and makes it easy to check the recorder’s current time.

The message display shows various messages required to operate the FD-4, and offers interactive operation.

This section describes display functions along with examples.

Display when the power is turned on

When you turn the power on to the FD-4 and the connected external SCSI drive (with a formatted removable disk inserted), the display shows the [Initial...] message, then Recording mode (Normal, Master 1 or Master 2), and finally the Time Base of the last Program that was used before you turned the power off.

The following example shows that the FD-4 started with the ABS Time Base used in Program 1.

 

SYNC OUT

 

DRIVE

 

CLK

 

 

 

 

SCSI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AUTO

 

A.PUNCH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

15. Power switch [POWER]

This switch turns power on and off to the FD-4.

SYNC OUT

AUTO

ABS

MS

SYNC OUT

CLK

AUTO

DRIVE

SCSI

A.PUNCH

F

PGM

DRIVE

SCSI

A.PUNCH

20

Page 19 Page 21
Page 20
Image 20
Fostex FD-4 Data output jack Data OUT Connector Optical, Data input jack Data in Connector Optical, Power cable
Page 19 Page 21

FD-4 specifications

The Fostex FD-4 is a cutting-edge digital multi-track recorder that combines innovative technology with user-friendly features, making it a preferred choice for musicians, audio engineers, and content creators. This portable device brings studio-quality recording capabilities in a compact format, ensuring versatility and ease of use.

One of the standout features of the FD-4 is its ability to record up to eight tracks simultaneously, allowing for complex layering and arrangements. The device supports a variety of audio formats including WAV and MP3, making it suitable for both high-fidelity recordings and efficient file storage. The high-resolution 24-bit/96kHz recording capabilities ensure that the depth and clarity of sound are preserved, regardless of the genre or style being recorded.

The FD-4 is equipped with a user-friendly interface, featuring a large, bright LCD display that provides an overview of tracks, levels, and settings. The intuitive navigation simplifies the process of creating, editing, and mixing audio. Users can easily maneuver through menus, making adjustments on-the-fly without disrupting the creative flow.

Additionally, the FD-4 utilizes advanced digital signal processing (DSP) to enhance audio quality. Built-in effects such as reverb, compression, and EQ provide users with an array of tools to shape their sound before mixing. The flexibility offered by these effects, coupled with the device's capability to handle external effects processors, further expands its creative possibilities.

The FD-4 also features an extensive connectivity range, including multiple microphone inputs that support both XLR and TRS jacks, allowing for versatile recording configurations. This lets users connect various types of microphones and instruments seamlessly. With USB connectivity, users can easily transfer their recorded tracks to a computer for further editing and mixing in digital audio workstations (DAWs).

Moreover, the FD-4 is designed for portability, making it ideal for on-the-go musicians and producers. Its robust construction ensures durability, while the lightweight design allows it to fit easily into a travel bag.

In conclusion, the Fostex FD-4 stands out as a powerful digital multi-track recorder packed with features that cater to both professional and aspiring audio creators. Its combination of high-quality recording, user-friendly interface, and extensive connectivity options positions it as an essential tool for anyone looking to capture high-quality audio in any setting. Whether in a studio or out in the field, the FD-4 delivers the reliability and sound fidelity that users demand.
Top Page Image Contents