Tascam DA-78HR Microcassette Recorder User Manual


 
TASCAM DA-78HR
7
1 - Introduction to the DA-78HR
The TASCAM DA-78HR is a digital audio multi-
track recorder designed for use in a variety of appli-
cations, including video post-production and audio
multitrack work.
It records 8 tracks of full-quality digital audio on
standard Hi8 video cassettes using a specially-
designed transport and head mechanism. Using this
medium, up to 108 minutes of continuous recording
is possible on a single NTSC “120” tape
Recording is carried out at either 24 or 16 bits of res-
olut ion, and digital data may be input at 16, 20 or 24
bits of resolution. Analog signals are converted to
digital data using 64 times oversampling delta-sigma
techniques.
The DA-78HR builds on the foundations laid by the
TASCAM DA-88, DA-38 and DA-98 digital multi-
track recorders, and retains compatibility with them.
16-bit tapes recorded on one of the DA series can be
repl ayed and overdubbed on any other machine in the
series, or any DTRS
1
machine. 24-bit tapes can only
be replayed in DA-78HR recorders,
1.1 Unpacking
The box contains the following.
DA-78HR Digital Multitrack Recorder (x 1)
Accessories:
–Rackmount screw kit (x 1)
–AC power cord, 2 m (6 ft.) long (x 1)
–This manual (x 1)
Warranty card (x 1)
1.2 Features
Other key features of the DA-78HR include:
TASCAM-exclusive high-performance/high wear
resistive rotary 4-head mechanism with TASCAM
original track layout (DTRS standard)
Use of standard, low-cost media with long record-
ing and playback times
24-bit or 16-bit linear quantization at either 44.1
kHz or 48 kHz provides CD-quality sound or better
Fast, frame-accurate tape location and positioning;
end-to-end winding for a “120” tape is around 80
seconds
Direct digital synchronization of up to 16 DTRS
recorders (128 tracks) without the use of any exter-
nal synchronizer or controller
Direct digital dubbing between DTRS units
An internal digital patchbay, allowing input-to-
track assignment and selection of digital, analog
and off-tape sources without the use of external
switching or routing equipment
Internal 8 x 2 mixer (level and pan) for stereo
replay of recorded tracks and output through a
standard SPDIF connector without external mixing
equipment
SPDIF stereo input
Balanced +4dBu analog inputs and outputs carried
on a convenient compact D-sub connector
Unbalanced –10 dBV connectors (RCA) for con-
nection to semi-professional equipment
15-segment peak meters with user-selectable fall
ballistics and variable hold time (including contin-
uous peak hold)
Meters also used for display of channel and track
information
Integral digital sine oscillator, providing signals at
440Hz and 1kHz for tuning and other frequencies
for lineup purposes
Digital input and output on a single convenient
compact D-sub connector (TDIF-1 format)
Settings carried out through a menu hierarchy
SMPTE/EBU timecode input and output
MIDI Time Code and MIDI Machine Control
Simplified source/tape monitoring functions with
automatic switching
Auto punch-in and punch-out with rehearsal mode
2-point full function autolocator with A–B repeat
function.
Variable speed recording and playback (up to 6.0%
in 0.1% steps)
Shuttle mode enables “rock and roll” audio posi-
tioning of key locations
Data entry mode allows use of shuttle knob to set
data values
1.3 Using this manual
We suggest that you take the trouble to read this man-
ual through at least once before starting to use the
DA-78HR. In this way, you will find out where to
turn when you need answers.
1. DTRS is a trademark of TEAC Corporation