Appendix C: WaveFrame Compatibility

This section contains information on using the MMR-8 in the film post production environment that heretofore has relied on a WaveFrame/StudioFrame system for playback on the mix stage.

There are a number of considerations necessary to ensure compatibility between the MMR-8 and existing WaveFrame/StudioFrame projects. WaveFrame/StudioFrame systems require at least one fixed drive on the ‘A’ SCSI bus. On many StudioFrame systems, all drives are configured as “fixed” (i.e., non- removable). However, fixed drives in the StudioFrame system do not hold edit information, only the track audio. To store the edit information with the audio on the same drive requires that the drive be set up as a “removable” drive. The MMR-8, therefore, will work only with drives that have been configured by the workstation as “removable”, since it relies on edit information being present on those drives. In addition, WaveFrame/StudioFrame systems place a maximum of four playable tracks of audio (per project/reel/dub) on each disk volume.

The optimal configuration for a WaveFrame/StudioFrame system that is intended for use with the MMR-8 is as follows: The workstation would have the one required fixed drive on the ‘A’ SCSI bus, with enough additional drives for holding all tracks. The additional drives would all be configured as “removable” drives. Tracks 1-4 would be recorded onto drive 1A (the first removable drive), tracks 5-8 would be recorded onto drive 1B (the second removable drive), and so on for any further groups of four. Although this is the best MMR-compatible configuration, earlier projects may have been created under other StudioFrame configurations using fixed drives. In these cases, a conversion procedure is necessary in order to use the MMR-8 with the pre-recorded disk volumes. The following outline describes the procedure for turning “fixed” StudioFrame drives into removable drives that can then be moved to the MMR-8, with both track edits and audio information intact.

As an example, suppose we wished to make two drives “removable” that were attached as fixed drives to the ‘A’ SCSI bus on the workstation. To make the fixed drives removable, you must first edit your Autoexec.bat file to include this line somewhere in the file (for example, as the last line):

SET NFREMOVEID=4

(To edit your Autoexec.bat file select File, Run and type SYSEDIT in the dialog box. Click on the Autoexec.bat window and type in the new command (SET NFREMOVEID=4) on a new line. Select File, Quit. Select Save to save the changes you made to the Autoexec.bat file.) Changing the Autoexec.bat file requires rebooting for the change to take effect. You could also exit Windows, type the ‘set’ command above on the command line, and re-start Windows, if you do not wish to reboot. You would, however, have to do this every time the system was restarted.

To the WaveFrame/StudioFrame, this will signal that all SCSI drive addresses equal to or higher than four

(4)are to be considered “removable” drives (lower numbers than 4 may be used, but be careful not to over-step any other lower addresses in use on the bus). Before re-starting your system, you must physically change the SCSI addresses of the two drives to SCSI id’s 4 and 5, or 5 and 6. The SCSI id’s must not be duplicated by any other drive on the SCSI bus.

StudioFrame Configuration Example A: 8-8-8 (8 track layout, tracks are in stereo pairs, on two fixed drives). Sound was recorded to the F1 drive group.

Edit your Autoexec.bat file and (perhaps) change the SCSI address of your drives as described above. Restart the system, launch StudioFrame, and mount the now-removable drives. Disregard the “missing edits” message at startup (fixed disks do not have the edits stored on them, whereas removable drives do).

Tascam MMR-8 Owner’s Manual • Appendix C • WaveFrame Compatibility

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MMR-8 specifications

The Tascam MMP-16 and MMR-8 are two innovative products designed to meet the specialized needs of audio professionals, offering advanced features and capabilities suitable for various recording and playback applications.

The Tascam MMP-16 is a versatile audio router and mixer that excels in different environments, from live sound to studio recording. One of its primary features is the 16-channel configuration, allowing for significant flexibility in signal routing. The MMP-16 supports multiple audio formats, including analog signals, making it adaptable to a wide range of setups. It boasts high-quality AD/DA conversion, delivering excellent audio fidelity and low latency performance.

Additionally, the MMP-16 is equipped with comprehensive digital processing capabilities, including EQ and dynamics processing on each channel. This makes it ideal for both mixing live performances and preparing recordings for post-production. The unit's user-friendly interface includes an intuitive display and physical controls that streamline operation, making it easy for both novice and experienced engineers to navigate.

On the other hand, the Tascam MMR-8 is a robust multi-track digital audio recorder that offers exceptional reliability for professionals who require high-quality audio capture. This 8-channel recorder shines in its ability to handle various digital audio formats, ensuring compatibility with different workflows. One standout feature of the MMR-8 is its solid-state recording technology, which enhances durability and reduces the risk of data loss, a crucial aspect in high-stakes recording environments.

The MMR-8 also provides comprehensive onboard monitoring options, allowing users to assess audio quality in real time. Its extensive connectivity options include digital and analog inputs and outputs, facilitating seamless integration with other studio equipment and live sound systems. The data management capabilities of the MMR-8 make it easy to organize and retrieve recordings, while its compact design ensures portability without compromising on performance.

Both the MMP-16 and MMR-8 showcase Tascam's commitment to innovation and quality in the audio industry. Their advanced features, coupled with solid build quality and ease of use, make them essential tools for audio professionals seeking reliable solutions for their recording and mixing needs. Whether utilized separately or in conjunction, these devices amplify creativity and enhance the overall audio production experience.
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