Basic Features of VF80EX

Before Operating

This section describes the basics that you should know before you start operating the VF80EX.

All users, including those who are familiar with using tape-based Multitracker and those who are new to Multitracker, should read this section thoroughly to understand the functions of the VF80EX.

Recording method

Remain indicator

The VF80EX uses a hard disk as a recording medium, instead of a conventional tape.

You can start recording sound sources from any point on a disk as long as the point is within the range of 24 hours in ABS time. Also you can locate to any point within the range. You may think of the VF80EX as in- corporating tapes on which 24-hour time information is striped.

ABS0

 

 

 

 

REC END

23h 59m 59s

00m 00s

05m 00s

10m 00s

15m 00s

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

......

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

recorded area

unrecorded area

recorded area

unrecorded area

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can record at any point within 24 hours in ABS time.

You can record in any area within 24 hours in ABS time. ABS 0: The beginning time at 00h 00m 00s

REC END: The end time of recording (in the example above, 00h 15m 00s)

unrecorded

5 minute recording 5 minute recording

24 hour recording

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

recorded area

recorded area

unrecorded area (remain)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With a tape recorder, the maximum recording time depends on the tape length, regardless of the amount of unrecorded areas. With the VF80EX, you can use the media more efficiently because no disk space is used for unrecorded areas.

Program

You can use up to 99 "tapes with 24-hour time infor- mation" with the VF80EX. Each "tape" is called a "Pro- gram".

A program exists independently on the hard disk, therefore, you can freely record, playback or edit each program without affecting other programs.

You can give a name (program title) to each program, so you can easily identify a program.

"Program title" with its program number appears at the top left of the normal screen as shown below.

Program number/title ("01" is the program number while "#0001" is a default title)

The remain indicator shows how much recording time is left on the current hard disk.

The VF80EX program is managed by a 24-hour time counter, however, the actual recording time left de- pends on the available disk space.

The remain indicator appears on the LCD during re- cording (or on REC standby), showing the rough re- maining time if you record on a mono track.

Note that if the remaining time is 100 hours or more, the indicator shows the available (remaining) disk space in MB.

The remaining time is 13h 28m 15s.

The remaining value is calculated on a mono-track basis. That is, the value indicates recordable time if you record on a mono track. You can calculate the recordable time when recording on more than one track easily by dividing the time by the track num- ber.

In the example above, if you record on 2 tracks, the recordable time is about 6 hours 44 minutes (13 hours 28 minutes 15 seconds divided by 2). Or if you record on 8 tracks, the recordable time is about 1 hour 41 minutes (13 hours 28 minutes 15 seconds divided by 8).

The VF80EX manages up to 99 programs on the hard disk. Each program includes not only the recording data but also various setting information which con- sumes a small amount of disk space. Therefore, note that the remaining time shown on the screen is a rough value.

Always check the remaining time left before starting recording, to ensure that you have enough disk space to work with.

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Fostex VF80EX owner manual Recording method Remain indicator, Program

VF80EX specifications

The Fostex VF80EX is a versatile digital multitrack recorder that offers musicians, songwriters, and audio enthusiasts a wide array of features and technologies to enhance their recording experience. Known for its portability and ease of use, the VF80EX is an excellent solution for both studio and field recording applications.

One of the standout features of the VF80EX is its capability to record up to eight tracks simultaneously. This multi-track functionality allows users to capture entire bands or complex arrangements in real-time, ensuring that no creative idea is lost. The unit is equipped with a built-in, high-quality mic preamp and multiple inputs, which support both XLR and TRS connectors. This versatility gives users the flexibility to record from various sources, whether it's vocals, guitars, or electronic instruments.

Another significant aspect of the VF80EX is its intuitive interface. The device features a clear LCD display that keeps essential functions and waveforms visible, facilitating easy navigation through menus and settings. Additionally, the operation is streamlined with dedicated buttons and a jog dial, making recording, editing, and mixing a straightforward process even for those who may be new to digital audio workstations.

The VF80EX also boasts onboard effects, including reverb, delay, and chorus, enabling users to create rich soundscapes without the need for additional equipment. These effects can be applied in real-time during recording or used for mixing after tracks have been laid down, adding significant creative possibilities.

In terms of storage and playback options, the VF80EX utilizes a removable SmartMedia card, allowing for ample recording time and quick file management. Users can easily transfer their recorded files to a computer for further editing and production, making it a versatile component for any home or professional studio setup.

One of the key characteristics of the VF80EX is its robust build quality. Designed with durability in mind, it is suitable for both studio settings and mobile recording situations. Whether you're in a controlled environment or out in the field, the VF80EX proves its reliability.

Overall, the Fostex VF80EX is notable for its combination of user-friendly operation, impressive recording capabilities, and portability, making it an excellent choice for those looking to capture high-quality audio in various settings. With its advanced features, it stands out as a powerful tool for both amateur and professional musicians alike.