Comprehensive Guide to Recording Equipment

Basic Recording/Playback (VF80EX)

LCD

This section describes major contents on the LCD display and their operations.

Switching the time base

Each press of the [TIME BASE SEL] key cycles the time base of the Normal screen between “ABS”, “BAR/BEAT/ CLK” and “MTC”.

Display when turning on the power

When turning on the power of the VF80EX on which a formatted hard disk is installed, the unit starts up and “Initial..” and “version number” appears on the LCD display, followed by “Current Dr” , “IDE” , “hard disk name (momentarily)” and “record mode (Standard or Quick)” . Then the unit gets ready at the beginning (ABS 0) of the program which was selected when the power was turned off last time. The current position is shown by the time base previously selected.

The display that appears when the unit gets ready is call “Normal screen” . The Normal screen shows the fol- lowing items.

Screen example while starting up

Normal screen

1. Scene number & name

With the initial setting, “S00: Initial Mix” appears.

2. Program number & name

With the initial setting, “P01: #0001” (#0001 is a tentative name) appears.

3. Mark number & name

With the initial setting, “00: ABS 0” appears, showing that the current location is at the beginning of the program. When the recorder starts running, “:” between the number and name is replaced with “+” .

4.Time base

With the initial setting, the ABS time base is selected.

You can change the time base by using the [TIME BASE SEL] key (see the next section).

5.Level meters for Tracks 1 through 8

6.Master level meters for the Stereo output (L, R)

Normal screen with ABS time base

Normal screen with BAR/BEAT/CLK time base

Normal screen with MTC time base

“Disk remain” indication

You can check the disk remaining space which shows the “recordable space left on the current disk” .

The disk remaining space (REM) is shown during “Rec ready” or “Recording” , in “time” when the remaining time is less than 100 hours, or in “MB (Megabyte)” of the remaining space when it exceeds 100 hours.

Note that the remaining time is shown as the record- able time when you record onto a single track.

You can calculate the recordable time for recording onto 8 tracks by dividing the displayed remaining time by 8.

Remaining time displayed in time

Remaining time displayed in MB

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.

Fostex Official Guide to VF80EX Recording Equipment Functions

Models: VF80EX

LCD