Digital mixdown, Assigning output tracks

Special Application (Digital Recording)

Digital mixdown

As described in the previous section, you may mix down digital signals from tracks 1–4 to an external digital device using the procedure described in the basic mixdown sec- tion, in which you set [L- , r- ] for digital output tracks. Refer to the “Basic Multitrack Recording” chapter for infor- mation on how to connect effect units.

<Note>

When you are using a disk in Normal mode, digital signal will be output with a sampling rate of 32kHz. When you are using a disk in Mastering mode 1 or Mastering mode 2, digital signal will be output with a sampling rate of 44.1kHz.

	Effect unit 1			5, 12
	Effect unit 2		10		DAT
			10

9	EQ	EQ
					7
2					11
1					11
7
				3
			4, 8	14	6, 13

Connecting an external digital device

1.Connect the DATA OUT jack of the FD-4 with the OPTICAL IN jack of an external digital device using an optical cable.

Assigning output tracks

2.Use the “Setting digital output tracks” menu in SETUP mode to select [L- , R- ] as output tracks.

Refer to “Setting digital output tracks” of the “Changing the Initial Settings (SETUP Mode)” chapter.

Setting the switch and knob on the FD-4

1.Set the INPUT SEL switches of channels 1–4 to [TRK].

In this way, the output from recorded tracks 1–4 will be routed to the corresponding input channel faders for equalization and effect processing.

2.Set the channel PAN knobs accordingly.

There is no rule on the position of the PAN knobs. The settings will vary depending on the type of instrument you recorded or the feel of your song.

You can, for example, pan a given instrument to the left

and the vocal to right. Follow your intuition.

3.Set the SELECTOR in the monitor section to [L/R].

4.Raise the master fader L/R to [7–8].

Setting the output level and the master recorder

5.Set the master recorder to recording standby mode.

You should be able to check the recording level.

6.Press the PLAY button to play back the Program from the beginning.

7.Raise the channel faders and gradually turn the MASTER knob in the monitor section to monitor the sound.

Use the channel faders to adjust the track playback levels while monitoring the sound. At this time, check the level meters L and R and adjust the faders so that the [OL] section of the meter will not light up with the maximum level.

8.When you obtain a satisfactory balance, use the master fader L/R to adjust the final output level.

Also adjust the input level on the master recorder.

Settings for the effect units

9.Turn the AUX knob for the channel signal to which you wish to apply effects toward [AUX 1] or [AUX 2].

Turn the knob toward [AUX 1] to apply reverberation; turn it toward [AUX 2] to apply chorus.

10.Use the AUX RTN 1 and AUX RTN 2 knobs to adjust the input level from the effect units to the stereo bus L/R.

Mixdown

11.Hold down the STOP button and press the REWIND button to locate the beginning of the Program.

12.Start recording on the master recorder.

Adjust the input level on the master recorder so that its level meters indicate almost the same level as the FD-4’s level meters L/R.

13.Press the FD-4’s PLAY button to play the Program from the beginning.

Operate the master faders L/R to fade the mixdown sound in and out.

Quitting mixdown

14. Stop the master recorder and the FD-4.

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.

Fostex FD-4 owner manual Digital mixdown, Assigning output tracks

Models: FD-4