How to use the Recorder in jack

Å@Special Application (How to use the RECORDER IN jack)

The following explains the various functions of the RE- CORDER IN jack.

There are two ways to use the RECORDER IN jack.

1.Synchronizing an external MIDI sound source with the performances recorded on tracks 1 ~ 4 and digitally mixing down a maximum of eight channels of sound sources.

2.Directly recording external sound sources without routing them through a mixer.

Eight channels of digital mixdown

In this method, the RECORDER IN (L, R) jacks of the FD-4 are directly connected to the MON OUT (L, R) jacks and the moni- tor SELECTOR switched to [L/R+MON]. Then, the monitor bus L, R signal and the stereo bus L, R signals are both simulta- neously output from MON OUT L, R and input to RECORDER IN L, R. As shown in the drawing below, an external MIDI sound source is input to INPUT jacks 1~4, and then each channel INPUT fader is raised, and performances recorded on tracks 1~4 are applied to each channel MON mix section, and played back using MIDI sync of both performances. With this method, a maximum of eight channels (Tracks 1~4 and MIDI sound) of sound sources are mixed and sent to the RECORDER IN L, R from MON OUT L, R, and digitally mixed down in an outboard digital device (DAT).

INPUT 4

INPUT 3

R MON OUT L

R ST OUT L

AUX SEND

AUX RTN 2

AUX RTN 1

MONO/L

INSERT 3

SCSI

DATA

PUNCH

MIDI

RECORDER IN

POWER

OUT

IN/OUT

OUT

DAT

MIDI

Sequencer

MIDI sound sources

For details on digital mixdown by synchronizing with a MIDI sound source, please refer to “MIDI clock sync system” of “MIDI synchro- nization” on page 71.

Direct recording of an external sound source

Here, an external sound source is directly input to the RECORDER IN jack of the FD-4 and recorded in the recorder section without passing through a mixer.

In this case, if an external input is connected to L and R of the RECORDER IN jack, it will not be possible to record through the mixer section.

In the illustration below, the signal input to L of RECORDER IN is sent to tracks 1, 3 and L, and the signal input to R of RECORDER IN is sent to tracks 2, 4 and R. Any two tracks are selected for record- ing. If the connection is made from the mixer group out, using a patch bay will faciliate connections from the front panel as shown in drawing below. The recording level is adjusted at the external equipment side and, by setting the monitor section SELECTOR to [MON] at the FD-4 side, sound can be monitored using the MON mix section of the channel corresponding to each track. Recording onto the additional track is possible only in the normal mode and mastering mode 1.

RECORDER IN	1/L					Real track 1
L	2/R					Real track 2
	3/L					Real track 3
R	4/R					Real track 4
R	L				Additional track L
	L				Additional track L
	R				Additional track R
	REC SEL switch				Recorder section
						INPUT 4	INPUT 3
R MON OUT L	R ST OUT L2 AUX SEND 1R	AUX RTN 2		AUX RTN 1
R MON OUT L	R ST OUT L2 AUX SEND 1R	MONO/L		R	MONO/L	4 INSERT 3
	SCSI	DATA	DATA	PUNCH	MIDI	MIDI	RECORDER IN
POWER	SCSI	IN	OUT	IN/OUT	IN	OUT	RL

Patch bay

External mixer etc.

If an external sound source is connected to both L and R of RECORDER IN, recording cannot be done via the INPUT fader. If only one jack (L or R) is con- nected, the track corresponding to the jack not connected can be recorded simul- taneously via the INPUT fader. For example, if sound source E is connected to only L of RECORDER IN, another sound source applied via the INPUT fader can be recorded on any one of tracks, 2, 4, R corresponding to R of RECORDER IN to which nothing is connected. In other words, because the FD-4 can simultaneously record two tracks, a sound source from RECORDER IN can be recorded on one track and sound source routed via the INPUT fader can be simultaneously re- corded on the other track.

Sound source E

Track 2 (sound source E)

Track 1 (sound sources A, B, C and D)

Sound source A Sound source B Sound source C Sound source D

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 How to use the Recorder in jack

Models: FD-4