Tascam PortaStudio 424 Owner's manual

Brand: Tascam

Model: PortaStudio 424

Category: Audio mixers

Type: Owner's manual

TASCAM

TEAC Professional Division

i=ORT/JSTUDIO

OWNER'S MANUAL ) 5700124700

Important Safety Precautions Safety Instructions

CAUTION: 13. Cleaning -- The appliance shouldbecleanedonly asrecom-

CAUTION A CAUTION:TO REDUCETHERISKOFELECTRICSHOCK.DO NOTREMOVECOVER • Read all of these instructions, mended by the manufacturer.'

L*lE AlE (OR BACK). NO USER-SERVICEABLEPARTSINSIDE. REFER SERVICINGTO • Save these instructions for lateruse.

14.

Power Lines - An outdoor antennashould be Iocatad away

QUALIFIEDSERVICEPERSONNEL. • Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the from power lines.

audio equipment.

,_ The_ightning_ashwitharr_whe_dsymb___withinaneq_i_at_ra_triang_e'isintendedt_a_erttheuser 15. Outdoor Antenna Grounding - If an outside antenna'is

tothepresenceofuninsulated"dangerousvoltage"withintheproduct'senclosurethatmaybeof 1. Read Instructions --All thesafety andoperating instructions connected to the receiver, be sure the antenna system is

sufficientmagnitudetoconstitutea riskofelectricshocktopersons, should be readbefore the appliance isoperated, grounded so as to provide someprotection againstvoltage

i 2. Retain Instructions--Thesafetyandoperatinginstructions surges and built up static charges. Section 810 of the

National Electrical Coder ANSI/NFPA No.70 - 1984, pro-

,_ Theexclamationpointwithinanequilateraltriangleisintendedto alertthe usertothe presenceof should beretained for future reference, rides information with respectto proper grounding of the: importantoperatingandmaintenance(servicing)instructionsintheliteratureaccompanyingthe 3. Heed Warnings - All warningson the appliance and in the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in

appliance. • operating instructionsshould be adheredto. wire to an antenna dischargeunit, size of grounding con-

4. Follow Instructions - All operating and use instructions ductors, location of antenna-dischargeunit, connection to

I should befollowed, grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding

This

appliance

hass serial

numberlocated

WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK ,. Water and Moisture - The appliance should not be used

ontherearpanel.Reaserecordthemodel electrode. See Figure below.

numberandserialnumberandretainthemfor

yourrecords. HAZARD,DONOTEXPOSETHIS near water - for exenlple, near abathtub, washbowl, kitchen

Modelnumber APPLIANCETORAINOR-.n,eT,,.¢ sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming zxAMFLZOrANTENNAGROUNmZ_G

Sedalnumber IVIUIOIUDF= pool, etc. _LSErC.r_ZNc_O_[

6. Carts and Stands -- The applianceshould beusedonly with

a cart or standthat is recommendedby the manufacturer.

6A. An appliance and cart combination .should be moved with

care. Quick stops, excessiveforce, and unwen surfaces may _N_

NOTE FOR U.K. CUSTOMERS causethe applianceand cart combination to overturn. _R¢

THIS DIGITAL APPARATUS DOES NOT EX- CRO_,O _,

Due to the variety of plugs being used in the NOISE EMISSIONS FROM DIGITAL APPARA-

U.K., this unit is sold without an AC plug. Please TUS AS SET OUT IN THE RADIO INTER- *'_(_s%,_,o_..,_,o_,or

request your dealer to install the correct plug to FERENCE REGULATIONS OF THE CANADIAN

match the mains power outlet where your unit DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATIONS.

will be used as per these instructions. 0_o_,_ _o,0_o_

LE PRESENT APPAREl L NUMERIQUE N'EMET _(c s(c_o._,o-,,)

PAS DE BRUITS RADIOELECTRIQUES DE- _o_.oc_,_

PASSANT LES LIMITES APPLICABLES AUX E_o_.=,_

- C_CTROOESTSlrEM

(N(C_TZS0.P_TH)

APPAREILS NUMERIQUES DE CLASSE B 7. Wall or CeilingMounting- The applianceshould bemount- NEC- NATIONALEL£CTRmJ¢CO0(

PRESCRITES DANS LE REGLEMENT sun LE ed to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manu-

BROUILLAGE RADIOELECTRIQUE ED CTE fasturer.

PAR LE MINISTERE DES COMMUNICATIONS 8. Ventilation - The appliance should be situated so that its 16. NonusePeriods -- The power cord of the appliance should

DU CANADA. location or position does not interfere with its proper venti- be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long

lation. For example, the appliance should not be situated period of time.

on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the

ventilation openings; or, placed in a built-in installation, 17. Object and Liquid Entry - Care should be taken so that

suchas a bookcaseor cabinet that may impede the flow of objects do not fall and liquids are not spilled into the en-

air through theventilation openings, closurethrough openings,

Bescheinigung des Herstellers/Importeurs 9. Heat - The appliance,should be situated away from heat 18. Damage Requiring Service - The appliance should be ser-

• sourcessuch as radiators, heat registers,stoves, or other vicedby qualified servicepersonnelwhen:

Hierrnitwird bescheinigt,dabder/die/das appliances(including amplifiers) that produce heat. A. The power-supply cord or theplug hasbeendamaged; or

B. Objects have fallen, or liquid has been spilled into the

MlSCHPULT MIT MAGNETTONBANDGERAT 424 10. Power Sources- The appliance should be connected to a appliance; or

"- (Ger4t,TyJp.Bezeichnung) ,_. power supplyonly of the type describedin the operating in- C. The appliance hasbeen exposedto rain; or

structionsor asmarked onthe appliance. D. The appliance does not appear to operate normally or

in Ubereinstimrnungmitden Bestimmungencler 11. Grounding or Polarization -- The precautions that should exhibits a marked change inperformance; or

, AMrSBLATT163/1984,VFG1045/1984,VRi1046/1984 be taken so that the grounding or polarization meansof an E. The appliance hasbeen dropped, or the enclosure darn-

(AmtsblattverfOgung) appliance is not defeated, aged.

12. Power-Cord Protection - Power-supply cords should be 19. Servicing - The user should not attempt to service the

THE APPLIANCE CONFORMS WITH EEC DI REC- funk-entstGrtist. routed so that they arenot likely to be walked on or pinch- appliance beyond that described in the operating instruc-

TIVE B7/308/EEC REGARDING INTERFERENCE Per Deutschen Bundespost wurde des Inverkehrbringen ed by items placed upon or againstthem, payingparticular tions. All other servicing should be referred to qualified

dieses GerBtes angezeigt und die Berechtigungzur 0her- attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and servicepersonnel.

SUPPR ESSION prOfungderSerieaufEinhanungderBestirnmungeneinger_tumt, the point where they exit from the appliance.

CON FORME AL D.M. 13 APRI LE 1989 TEAC CORPORATION

DI RETT I VA CE E/87/308 NamedesHerstellers/Importours

2 3

The PORTASTUDIO 424 is...

Table of Contents

The PORTASTUDIO 424 is... 5 The PORTASTUDIO 424 is an 4-track "Multi- Using this manual : To get the most out of your

The Recording System 5-6 track Master" cassette tape recorder and a full- 424, please take the time to read through this

Understanding the Mixer 7-8 function 8x2 mixer combined into a single manual. Some time spent now will keep you

Multitrack Cassette Recorder 9 workstation, from overlooking some of the features that

make the 424 a more creative tool. You may

Precautions and Recommendations 9-16 Its high audio quality and creative flexibility discover some new tricks you haven't tried

Brief Guide 11-12 reflect the experience and innovation that have before.

allowed TASCAM to earn its reputation in

Step-by-step Operations Guide 13-20 professional audio production fields, and its Use of capital letters : In general, we use all

Let's Try the 424 Mixer 13 user-friendly design makes the 424 suitable for upper case type to designate a particular

How to record on track 1 15 anyone, from expert to novice, switch, control, jack name or label (like PAN).

How to play back track 1 through CUE MONITOR 16 Transport modes and some features are

How to make an overdub on track 2 16

How to record all other tracks 18 : described with an upper case first letter (like

How to record many sources onto a single track 18 Record mode).

i How to record a mix onto two tracks

; simultaneously 18

Recording on more than two tracks

simultaneously 19

How to mix down. 20

Punch-in or Insert Recording 21-22

Punch-in/out Procedure 21 The Recording System

i Selecting In and Out Points 22

Punching-in/out with RECORD 22

Using the Remote Footswitch (RC-30P) 22

The PORTASTUDIO 424 is a complete audio

Bouncing Tracks (Ping-pong) 23-24 production facility in a single box. It is divided

Ping-pong Procedure 23 into two major sections: a full-function mixer _'_ Tracking

Ping-pong Plus Live Material 24 and an 4-channel, multitrack cassette recorder.

Adding Stereo Channels to a Bounce 24 To complete the recording system, you'll ___

i Using Effects with the PORTASTUDIO 424 25-26 additionally need these: Input devices

Setting Effect Send Levels 25 (microphones, instruments), Output devices

Setting the Output of Effect Devices 25 (headphones), 2-track recorder, Effects pro-

Setting the Mix/Balance Control on Effect Devices 25 cessors, etc., as shown on the next page. L---424__J

How to Connect Your Effect Devices 26

Making an Automatically Repeating Loop 27 The Three Steps to Multitrack

Features and Controls 29-35 (_ Overdubbing

InputSection(Channels 1-4) 29 The diagram on the right depicts how signals _;_ "" " " +" III °_°IIl_l_

Effect Send Section 29 from equipment connected to the 424 can be

Stereo Inputs Section 30 routed.

Main Stereo Mix Master Output 31

Tape Cue and Monitor Section 31 In TRACKING and Ovardubbing, the mixer

Recorder Section inputs are usually microphones or instruments, L__ 424_.__J

Cassette Loading and dbx System 32 going to different tracks of the recorder. In

Transport Controls 33 OVERDUBBING, the MONITOR section and

Track Controls 34 TAPE CUE of the mixer must be used to listen Mixdown

o,s0as to0+v+outrac+w.ieou+cor0nowones.I m tl l l

1171

. SYNC Features 35 so there is a two-way flow through the console.

! Care and Maintenance 36-37 In MIXDOWN, signal comes from the multi-

track and is sent to an external 2-track recorder. 2 Track I_]

How the dbx Works 37

Some Commonly Asked Questions about the Portastudio 38 j

; [--424--

Optional Accessories 39

--_ Specifications 40

,; Block Diagram 41

r_;;. Level Diagram

All rights reservedunder internationalandPan Americancopyrightconventions. .

This bookmay notbereproducedin wholeor in part, by mimeograph or any other means,

_ withoutpermission.

4 5

' Understanding the Mixer

Signal Flow in the 424 Mixer

The illustration below shows how the input

signal passes through the 424 Mixer section.

Mixdowndeck After the MASTER fader they go to the L/R LINE

Effects OUT jacks. This is the most important signal

i__ [_[.jt_l_ route in the mixar and is called "Main Mix". '_l.r_

Mic

'1Pt_ NES

_IIC,

cO MOI

_1 iom__

• _'DI-

-, i-

u c

ic/i Cl E

-L

P" M - i

PORTASTUDIO424 I

-_ i U '

_ -

Hea0pnones m 1o-- -

9--

: eN

! RC-30PFootswitch _-- - e-- -

_ ,-- -

3-- --

0--

II IASTER

6 7

Multitrack Cassette Recorder

i Tape Cue Monitor System The 424 records on readily available standard • Three tape speeds offer HIGH for greater

(Philips) Compact Cassette tape, high bias Type fidelity, NORM for compatibility with

The TAPE CUE mix and MONITOR switches are If you can hear tape playback in your head- I1.The recorder has 4 tracks while the mixer has standard cassette tapes, and SLOW for

also crucial for successful multitrack recording, phones when CUE is not pressed, it means a stereo output; however, using the DIRECT studying complex musical passages.

because they control what you hear in the you're hearing tape through the Main Mix. This feature you can record on any or all of the 4

headphones. This CUE mix is totally in- is correct for mixdown and bouncing tracks, but tracks at one time. For more details, see "How • ZERO RETURN will automatically STOP or

dependent from the Main Mix going to tape. If during overdubbing it can cause previous tracks to Record More than Two Tracks Simul- PLAY the transport when it is fast wound to

you don't use the CUE mix, you run the risk of to be mixed together with new tracks, instead taneously', page 18. the O00 counter position.

accidentally "bouncing tracks" every time you of each part remaining separate. Use the TAPE

record new material. CUE toavoidthis. The 424's dbx Noise Reduction virtually • MEMORY will automatically STOP or

eliminates unwanted tape noise. A special REWIND the transport when it reaches a

The 4 TAPE CUE controls act like a separate 4xl The three MONITOR switches choose which SYNC feature turns off the dbx on track 4 counter position that you select. In

mixer, dedicated solely so you can hear mix(es) you can hear in the PHONES - the CUE separately, making it possible to record and combination with ZERO RETURN PLAY, you

playback from the multitrack recorder in your mix, and the LEFT and RIGHT outputs of the play back the MIDI sync tones or SMPTE/EBU can use MEMORY REWIND to automatically

headphones. Settings of these controls don't Main Mix. You press LEFT or RIGHT to hear time code without being affected by the dbx repeat a section of tape without having to

affect the mix going to tape. When any of the what you are recording : for example, LEFT encode/decode. This ensures that the sync press the transport controls.

TAPE CUE controls are turned to the right, CUE while recording onto track 1. tones/code are recorded and played back

is pressed in the MONITOR switch, and the without unnecessary processing. With proper • The tape speed can be increased or

PHONES controls is turned up, you can hear If you need to add external sources to the CUE operating techniques, it is not necessary to decreased with the PITCH CONTROL dial in

tape playback in the headphones. You can mix (for example, a MIDI-synchronized drum leave a guard band between music and sync both playback and record, to match pitch or

adjust the monitor level of each track by machine that you don't want to record on tape), tone tracks because of the low crosstalk of the for special effects.

adjusting its TAPE CUE control. The channels of the ASSIGN switches for channels 5-6 and 7-8 TASCAM heads.

the Main Mix remain free to handle external have a CUE position. This sends the output of • Punch-in and Punch-out can be engaged

inputs for recording, the stereo channel directly to the CUE mix. The transport controls of the 424 are micro- using the optional RC-30P footswitch, which

processor operated, allowing highly reliable gives you an "extra hand" in the'recording

functions that make the unit easier to use: process.

_ L \ Precautions and Recommendations

Tape Speed and Track Format conventional recorders. The SLOW speed is 2.4

, The Portastudio 424 uses a HIGH speed of 9.5 cm/sec (15/16 i.p.s.), of half the normal speed. It

cm/sec. (3-3/4 inches per second) which is two also employs a discrete 4-channel format head

w _ times (2X) the normal speed of a standard developed especially by TEAC for TASCAM

_;:,(@)). ,,_, audio cassette. Its NORMAL speed is 4.8 cm/sec multitrack cassette recorders. Here is a

,o,o- "" (1-7/8 i.p.s.), the same as that used by comparison of variouscassette formats:

... _-6 @ ® @ @

} ' c,_c, c, '

_. "_'_'_" L___J L__J L.___L____J L____J L____J L______J

TASCAM TASCAM TASCAM IEC IEC ANSI

i "/'/'A_" 4_ 4Tr 3Ch 4Tr 4Ch 8Tr 8Ch (Philips) (Philips) (Philips}

-,., . ,- -_j)- 4Tr 4Ch 4Tr 2Oh 2Tr 2Ch

8 , ; (Unit: mm}

- • Playing back standard (stereo) prerecorded

tapes:Tapes recorded on stereo cassette __

recorders can play back properly on the 424 if

: you set the track playback, tape speed, and

noise reduction type correctly. Tracks 1 and 2

roughly follow the standard "stereo" format, but

* tracks 3 and 4 use the "Side B" (reverse side)

tracks. So you must turn off Track 3- 4 playback _Side B safetytab

i to avoid hearing the flip side playing _"

backwards. If the cassette was recorded with safety tab

: Dolby B type noise reduction, the DBX switch

should be set to OFF. Tape Length

For the same reasons, tapes recorded on the Use the shortest possible tape for a given work.

Portastudio 424 will not playback properly on It is not unusual to play a tape 100 times before

stereo cassette recorders. Material recorded on you are finished, so select a cassette length

the 424 must be mixed down to stereo for final that is as close as possible to the length of the

distribution, program you plan to record. Cassettes C-60

length and shorter are often made from thicker

stock than longer cassettes.

The 424 needs the entire width of the tape to

record its four tracks, eliminating the option of The tape used in C-120 cassettes is extremely

recording on both sides (actually, it's both

directions). Therefore, you should decide which thin and can cause winding problems, crimping,

side (side "A" or side "B') you want to use and wrinkling, and other damage to the oxide

coating of the tape which will destroy your

use that side exclusively. It's a good idea to get work. Don't use C-120s in the 424. "*

into habit of consistently using the same side

on all multitrack tapes. Remember that at 2X normal speed, and the

"one-side-only" 4- track single direction format

Tape Type means that you have only 1/4X normal play

The Portastudio 424 is internally adjusted for time:

HiGH BIAS "Type I1" tape. This means that for

best results, you should only use tapes of this (approx.)

type. TDK SA, Maxell XL-II or equivalent

formulations are recommended. We strongly C-3O 7.5 min.

suggest that you select one good quality brand C-46 11.5 min.

_. and use it exclusively. The time you spend

creating your multitrack master is much more C-60 15 min.

valuable than the money you save by buying

inferior tape. The cassette shell essentially C-90 22.Smin.

becomes a part of the 424's transport. Poor

quality shells can cause wrinkles, snarls and

shredding of the edges of the tape with use. Powering the 424

Even small scratches on the tape oxide can

cause "dropouts = (temporary loss of signal)on IMPORTANT ! Only use the provided AC

one or more tracks. High quality tapes are less adaptor PS-P424 which is designed especially

for the Portastudio 424 and provides a

likely to cause problems in the long run. convenient connection and correct polarity.

Accidental Erase/Record Protection Should you attempt to employ an AC-DC

To protect a finished master tape, it is converter of any other brand or manufacturer,

necessary to punch out both record protect you will have to make sure that the connection

tabs. Even though you are recording in only one provides the proper polarity as shown by the

direction, the 424 uses the entire width of the symbols e-c.-e above the connector on the back

tape, as mentioned above. If, for example, you of the unit. Furthermore, the specified voltage

remove only one of the tabs, you could of 12 V and amperage of 1100 mA must be

accidentally insert the cassette into the 424 properly observed. Otherwise, damage may

backwards and erase all four tracks of the occur to the Portastudio 424 and such damaoe

master, would not be covered by the limited warranty

on the oroduct.

PORTASTUDIO 424 Brief Guide For detailed information on each feature, see "Features and Controls', pp. 29-35 of the supplied manual.

STEREO INPUTS (Ch. 5-8) : Connect any line-level signal

(such as an effect return, or electronic instrument)

selection and

adjustment

here. They can operate in three different ways.

I Input I • Four Sources: By Using a special 3-conductor Tip-

Ring-Sleeve (TRS) cable, each jack can accept

two signals at once (Tip to the left, Ring to the

right on Channel 5-6, vice versa on Channel 7- 8).

IN (Ch. 1-4) : These are the input jacks for the mixer channels. Both • Two Sources: If TRS "stereo splitter" cables are

Iower-level signals (from microhpones and some guitar pickups) andline- __o_ _ n°tavailable'standardm°n° 1/4= cables can be

level sources (such as electronic instruments) can be connected here. connected to these jacks. In this case, the left (5-

", 6) jack will go only to the Left mix, and the right

(Ch. 1-4) : Sets how much preamplification will be added to the MIC/LINE (7-8) jack will only reach the Right mix.

_ INjack. Turn to the right if the signal needs amplification, to the left if the lii_!i_ili_ . One source: Plug a mono cable into the left (5-6)

_ signal is so loud it is distorting the mixer electronics, jack and leave the right (7-8) jack empty. The

"_ signal automatically connects to both channels,

: Determines where the signal of the channel comes from, and where making assignment to left and right

_ the INPUT jack signal will go to. simultaneously possible.

EOI L

MIC/UNElleft) set the external input as the channel source. / _11 _ LINE level control : Controls the volume of the stereo• channels.

=o, TAPE (center) makes tape playback the channel source, and is used during a [,_c= ,/_.1 I

typical mixdown or bouncing tracks. /' ' ' ' _ ASSIGN : Sends the stereo channel to either the L-R mix

- -_- -,, for recording, or the CUE mix for monitoring. If you

• TAPE and MIC/LINE I_L (R) makes tape playback the channel source, and sends "_ are using MIDI-sequenced "virtual tracks', connect

the external input directly to the designated Master output (left or right), r-_,- them to channels 5-8, so they can be sent,directly to

• This is used during mixdown if you want to add external inputs (from MIDI- _,,_ the CUE mix without being recorded.

_ controlled instruments or an external mixer) while using the channel of the I-'U_ )'- -\_

424 to control tape playback. The input signal goes directly to the LEFT or ,_,

- "...... [ i

,o-"-" a "buss input'..RIGHT mix, orbypassingthe frequencies.ChannelcontrOlSshelving-thispointmakeSistheat1001NjackHz,work as =.__ I' ' ' ,_ . TAPETapeCuECue'I-4M°nit°r':This sectionandPhoneScontrolstape playback in the

HIGH : Cuts or boosts treble frequencies. Shelving point is at 10 kHz. ,o_o, headphones, when CUE is pressed in the MONITOR

LOW: Cuts boosts bass I _ section. (An output of the TAPE CUE mix alsoappears on the Ring connector of the EFFECT SEND

,-'- : A post-fader effect send from the channel. Turn clockwise to increase • , [] jaCk,anextraS°witheffectaspecialsendfromTRStape).CableCUE can be used as

e--

e - c_

,- []

the level going to the Effect Master. I I;|1] I l_ HI PHONES : This is the volume control for the built-in

i/iHililT

:- : Sets the pan position (left-right balance) of the channel. Note that ,- - headphone amp.

,- the Left Mix can be recorded on tracks 1 and 3, and the Right Mix onto

o- tracks 2 and 4. MONITOR switches : These select what signals you will

,_ _ hear in the PHONES. You can hear the left and/or

el fader: Sets the volume of the channel feeding the MASTER fader. II: H !! right output of the mixer, plus the tape cue mix,

1 depending on what is pressed down.

II II

• The LEFT or the RIGHT switch MUST be Up/Off

i i MASTERII when only either Left or Right output buss is fedL_,_

with signal, so you can hear that at the center in the

headphones.

• The "TAPE" CUE MONITOR mix is always mono

(center). The CUE MONITOR mix from the stereo

channels 5-6 and 7-8 may be stereo if they are fed

with stereo inputs.

I Master Section ]

•MASTER fader : This sets the total output level of the

stereo mix.

EFFECT MASTER : This is the master SEND control for

d_ the effect mix.

[ Recorder controls ] I OUTPUT JACKS: Rear panel I

mTRK (Track) LED : When a track is in SAFE _METER switch : In the TRK position, the four F--SYNC OUT jack : Connect this to the input of a _SYNC IN jack : Connect the output of a MIDI

position, its indicator will light in green, in meters will show the record or playback | MIDI sync or SMPTE time code reader. This sync or SMPTE time code generator to this

any other positions than SAFE, it will light level of the four tape tracks. This is the | jack always gets signal directly from tape jack. When the DBX switch is in the SYNC

in red, regardless of the current transport normal setting during recording. In the | track 4. position, this jack connects directly to the

mode. BUSS position, you can meter the output / DIRECT side of the Track 4 RECORD

level of the mixer sections (left, right, tape i I FUNCTION switch. When the Output

Meters:Theseshowtherecordedlevelofthe cue, andeffect).Thisisthenormalsetting _ 10,_ I I (___'_ Selector switch is in the TAPE OUT

respective tape tracks OR the output level during mixdown, l, position, this jack gets signal directly from

of different sections of the mixer (as set by .... = tape track 3.

the METER switch). The average level []

should be in the center(0), but occasional =TAPE SPEED : HIGH is 3-3/4 ips (9.5 cm/sec.), EFFECT SEND • Connect this to the input of an

peaks up to +6 scale are acceptable, double the standard (NORMal) cassette

tape speed of 1-7/8 ips (4.8 cm/sec.). SLOW effect device.

is 15/16 ips (2.4 cm/sec.) half normal speed. CUE OUT feature : If you have a "stereo

SLOW is recommended for practice only. splitter" TRS 3- conductor cable, the Tip will

receive the EFFECT OUT signal, and the

Ring will receive the CUE OUT signal,

MEMORY switch : Determines what will allowing the use of a second effect device

happen when the transport reaches the during mixdown, when CUE is not

MEMO point : automatic STOP, automatic otherwise being used.

[ I __, _--_ 'i:i _i_ REWind, or no effect (OFF).

not get signal from the LEFT and RIGHT

the first time, the current counter location mix during recording, the CUE OUT is not

i is memorized (red LED lit). A second press, intended for connection to a mohitoring

=t¢" t- clears that memory (LED off). A third press, system. Use the PHONES jack for this

"_!_ _. establishes a new MEMO point (LED lit). purpose.

RETURN : Determines what will happen Output Selector switch : This is a "where from"

,E, when the transport is fast wound to the switch : it selects the source for the four

-'__ zero position : automatic STOP, automatic output jacks next to it. In the left position,

PLAY, or no effect (OFF). the four jacks act as four TAPE OUT jacks,

getting signal directly from the multitrack

DBX : This turns the dbx noise reduction ON tape without passing through any mixer

and OFF for all four tracks. Normally, leave controls. In the right position, the first two

it on. In the SYNC position, the dbx is on for jacks act as LINE OUT Left and Right, jack 3

tracks 1-3, and off on track 4. Use SYNC acts as SYNC IN, and jack 4 acts as SYNC

RECORD FUNCTION switches 1-4: These when using Track 4 to record and play back OUT.

control which track(s) will be recorded MIDI sync tones or time code.

when the master RECORD and the PLAY When SYNC is on, the DIRECT side of Track

key is pressed, and choose where the 4's RECORD FUNCTION switch gets its LINE OUT L and R jacks: Normally, connect

signal to be recorded is coming from : signal from the SYNC IN jack, instead of these jacks to the Left and Right inputs of

from mixer Channel 4. your mixdown deck. When the Output

DIRECT : The track will be recorded with Selector switch is in the TAPE OUT

the direct output of the same-numbered PITCH CONTROL: Increases or decreases the position, these jacks will get signal directly

channel (channel 1 goes to track 1, etc.), speed of the transport in both Record or from tape tracks 1 and 2 instead of from

Adjust recording level with the Channel Play mode, over a 12% range, the stereo output of the mixer.

: Fader only. On Track 4, if the dbx switch is

; in the SYNC position, track 4 will record the __--Transport keys : These work the same as on These jacks can also be connected to the

signal from the SYNC IN jack instead of any cassette recorder, inputs of external mixers and amplifiers,

i from Channel 4. etc. However, since the TAPE OUT section

can not be heard through LINE OUT L-R,

they are not intended for connection to a

SAFE : The track will not be recorded. Tape counter (not shown) : A three-digit display monitoring system. Only the PHONES jack

LEFT (1,3) or RIGHT (2,4) : The track will be that shows the current tape position, used gets a mix of cue and stereo.

recorded with the Left or Right Mix. for autolocation functions.

Recording level is adjusted by the Channel

Faders and the MASTER fader. Any Counter reset button (not shown) : Press to

combination of inputs can be recorded at change the counter to "000".

once onto a track, in a mix determined by

their PAN controls and faders.

. Step-by-step Operations Guide

LET'S TRY THE 424 MIXER

To learn how the mixer works, first you need to plug a signal source

into one of the six 1/4" jacks located at upper top of the 424, in your

easy reach.

; As an example, we'll use a microphone as the source.

: : Before connections • Turn all the TRIM controls all the way to the left/LINE position.

• Turn all the EQ controls to their center °0" position.

• Bring all the faders down.

• Turn all the TAPE CUE, EFFECT, and PHONES controls full

counterclockwise, and set all the MONITOR switches to OFF

(their Up position).

• Turn the LINE 5-6 and LINE 7-8 level controls full

counterclockwise, and set the ASSIGN switches to the CUE

i; position.

1. Have in hand a dynamic microphone and a set of stereo

headphones.

Source connection 2. Plug the 1/4" plug on your microphone cable into the leftmost

(_ MIC/LINE IN jack for channel 1.

=_- 3. Connect the provided AC adaptor to the DC IN jack, and the

other end of the adaptor cable to an AC odtlet.

Powering on 4. Turn the 424 on. (The POWER switch is located on the back,

next to the DC IN jack.)

Headphones connection 5. Plug your headphones into the front PHONES jack.

Input source 6. Set the channel 1 INPUT switch to the left source MIC/LINE

,.PUT position.Mm/UNETA_

I How to Record On Track 1 I

Panning 7. Turn the channel 1 PAN control all the way to the left position. As a trial, let's record your voice on tape.

P,.-%.= 1. Have in hand a new cassette tape (Type II, C-90 length or

' ' ' shorter). Make sure the DBX switch is set to ON.

Loading a cassette 2. Press on the cassette door's lower right hand corner, and it will

spring open. Insert your cassette tape. Close the door.

Channel level 8. Raise the channel fader to "7" on the level scale. Getting past the leader 3. Press PLAY and allow the tape to run for about 10 seconds.

_tape This will run the tape leader onto the takeup reel, and put the

, ', beginning of the tape in front of the heads.

Group level 9. Raise the MASTER fader to "7". ,_,,,_ ._

Monitor selection 10. Press the MONITOR LEFT switch. The RIGHT switch must be ___-'_

.... OFF, so you can hear the Left mix at the center in the

headphones.

_,i_ Resetting the counter. 4. Press the Counter Reset button, so you an use the ZERO

RETURN function to get back to this point.

_r--] Selecting tracks 5. Set the TRK 1 RECORD FUNCTION switch to DIRECT or LEFT.

Listening level 11. Turn the PHONES level control up to the 12 o'clock position. The TRK 1 indicator will switch to light in red. ,_

_,_j,. __ If you use DIRECT, the METER switch must be in the TRK

,,_, position. If you use LEFT, the METER switch can be in either

TRK or BUSS.

Mic level adjustment 6. Speak into the mic. You will see meter 1 move. If no level or too

low a level is shown, continue to speak into the mic and slowly

TRIM adjustment 12. While speaking into the mic, slowly turn the TRIM control in = *' turn the channel 1 TRIM control to the right/MIC until the meter

channel 1 to the right. You will hear your voice in the = ,3 averages at "0" and peaks at "+6".

T.,%e 1 headphones. == o

When _sing a line level source (such as electronic instruments)

instead of the mic, the TRIM does not need to be turned up very far, -,o

if at all.

Beginning to record 7. Hold RECORD and press PLAY to initiate recording.

"_"_ • "_ "_';'_ 8. Speak into the mic.

When

a Cassette

Tape

WRONG ] Stopping recording 9. Press STOP to stop the tape and terminate recording.

ATTENTION! Be sure to pressthe cassette __.___ ._

shell so it is fully seated in place. If its open

edge (or the spine: the opposite closed edge) is

up as shown and PLAY or other transport keys

are pressed, the cassette shell might stick in

the transport mechanism and will not remove.

GOOD Putting track into "Safe" 10. Set the TRK 1 RECORD FUNCTION switch back to its SAFE

______________ j_ r_ =_c,____ before.P°siti°n'TheTRK1 indicatorwillswitchtolightin greenas

- SAFE

14 ..... 15

How to Play Back Track 1 through CUE MONITOR I

Locating tape to 000 1. Set the ZERO RETURN switch to STOP. Press REW. The tape Monitor selection 3. Press the MONITOR RIGHT Switch (down position). The

_. will rewind, automatically stopping at counter zero point.

_--_ .o,,o_ MONITOR CUE switch should also be on. The LEFT switch

JL<_J _"F] should be off.

--0-

MonitorSelection 2. Press CUE in the MONITOR select switches, so you can hear 0_

.o,_ the tape. _

_,,r-] Turn LEFT off, so you don't hear the noise from the microphone :

or instrument in the phones. _ Locating tape to 000 4. Press the REW key, So the tape will rewind to the beginning of

| _, the track 1 recording.

Begin playback 3. Press PLAY.

"'_' Track selection 5. Set the TRK 2 RECORD FUNCTION switch to RIGHT. The TRK 2

_ _ indicator will switch to light in red.

omlc-r

TAPE CUE level 4. Slowly turn the TAPE CUE 1 control to the right. You will hear

adjustment what you have recorded on track 1 in your headphones. Record level adjustment 6. Speak into the mic to check to see meter 2 move. If no level or

.__ (TRIM) =., too low a level is shown, continue to speak into the mic and

= slowly turn the channel 1 TRIM control to the right until the

*_ meter averages at "O" and peaks at "+6".

----_,

Stop playback 5. Press STOP to stop play. -- -,o

"_ Begin to record 7. Hold RECORD and press PLAY to initiate recording.

I i

I How to Make an Overdub on Track 2 I Monitoring input/tape 8. You will hear track 1 play, together with the new signal going to

track 2, in the headphones, monophonic (centered) as long as

the LEFT MONITOR switch is not pressed.

Overdubbing is recording one or more additional tracks on the If LEFT is pressed, you'll hear the signal going to track 2 on the

! same tape, while listening to previously recorded tracks using CUE. t right side, and the track 1 playback at the center.

! Leave the microphone connected to the channel i input. There is no i NOTE: Adjust only the TAPE CUE 1 control or the PHONES

need to repatch it to channel 2 to record on track 2. You can _ control if you need to change the balance between the old and

continue to use channel 1 because the channel's PAN makes it i new track in your headphones. Leave the Channel and

possible to send any channel to any track of the recorder. MASTER faders alone, because they control the level being

recorded.

i Same levels 1. All level controls should be set the same as they ware for the Stop recording 9. Press STOP to stop recording.

first track : the channel 1 fader and MASTER fader at about 7,

the TRIM undisturbed, the INPUT at MIC/LINE. All other

channel faders, including 5-6 and 7-8, should be off.

Panning 2. Turn the channel 1 PAN control all the way to the right position.

_,, Putting track 2 into 10. Set the TRK 2's RECORD FUNCTION switch to SAFE, so the

' ' ' "Safe" indicator switches to light in green as before.

SAFE

i I How to Record All Other Tracks ] I How to Record a Mix onto Two Tracks Recording is the same procedure as for one • The METER switch must be in the TRK

Simultaneously track. In the exampl e above, switch RECORD position to see recording levels during Direct

FUNCTION 3 to LEFT, and RECORD FUNCTION recording.

Tracks 3 and 4 can be recordqd using almost 4 to RIGHT to record on tracks 3 and 4

the same procedure just shown for tracks 1 and If you want to record multiple sources onto two simultaneously. • Even when DIRECT is on, a channel still goes

2. Just usa the applicable RECORD FUNCTION tracks, you use the channel PAN controls to to the Left/Right mix. If you record another

switches, and the PAN controls should be send them to LEFT or RIGHT (or anywhere in track with LEFT or RIGHT at the same time,

rotated to the LEFT for recording on Track 3 and between, if you're making a stereo mix). The Restrictions: The 424's mixer section has only you must check your PAN settings. For

to the RIGHT for Track 4. track RECORD FUNCTION switches choose two main mixes, Left and Right. For this reason, example, you can record a vocal DIRECT

what track the Left and Right mixes will be

you can record only two tracks at once while onto Track 3, and record multiple

recorded on. Note that in this method, the you're recording a mix of instruments (for instruments on Track 1 via LEFT at the same

I How to Record Many Source• onto a Single I mixer channel number has nothing to do with + example, two instruments on track 1, three time. But Channel 3's PAN control must beTrack I what track the instrument winds up on. Any instruments on track 2). Also, you can record a turned hard right, otherwise you'll wind up

mixer channel can be panned to any track, mix only on combinations of even/odd with vocals "bleeding through" onto Track l's

In the first example, we recorded one source , numbered tracks (1 & 2, 1 & 4, 2 & 3 etc.). If instruments.

-onto one. track at a time for simplicity. But the Track 1 and Track 3's RECORD FUNCTION

mixer of the Portastudio 424 can take multiple These mixer channels are switches are both in the LEFT position, they will • DIRECT can be used anytime yoO want to'

channels and mix them onto a single track. To being sent to the LEFT, both record the same mix. record a single channel to a single track.

do this: for recording on either

Track1 or Track 3. Recording the stereo line channels (5-6, 7-8) : It

• Set the PAN control of each channel to the is possible to record up to eight sources

same setting, for example : simultaneously, using the four standard mixer

F_ channels plus the two stereo channels. If theASSIGN switch is in its L-R position, and the

LINE level control is turned up, the LINE signal "_

,1,, 1 _, 2 ,_ 3 ,,, 4 _, 1 i,,, 2 ........ will be recorded along with any other channels

_',,._-_,- -r,._,_,- -mA_,_- .[,........._. __/_,_,:_ ?_:_ __f,,_,,'_!! __,,'_ !! sent to the Left or Right mix. Since there is no

....................... __=.'-_.- __=-._-'.- __=-\_/-,,, _v=-\_/-,," PAN control, the signals are set to the "hard

_-" _--= __= - = ___-- ...... ,_ ... _ ,,_ ,, left" and "hard right" position.

¢_ ¢_ _=_ _ _ ......

=_... =._.. .=_... ._._.. =........... II .... II For more information about Stereo channels

.._ ..= .o_ .._. see pp. 30-31.

_'__" <,'__ <,_'_" -4"r%'- -.......

=o_ =o_ '°_ ".... I Tracks

...... -_. Recording on More than Two

<_',',- <r_,% S(_'_'- -Y_'_: :(_'_'-. -YC_ -'_"C I] -_C_'C [I I Simultaneously : DIRECT

-i=i nil- -iz, .i- _--Jl- -\_'_/- _\_1- II -X_J- II

-- -- _ ,,_ ,_ ',',_: It is possible to record on three or four tracks at

e=rEcr BRC_ =_F_C_

:_" U_©_J the same time by using the DIRECT position of...............................f/'A_'.,..f,,i_'x- .K/'A_".< -f/"A_"< \_- _,___- the RECORD FUNCTION switches. In Direct

"_--_" "_J_ "_-J_ "_-J/" _ ...... _ =_ ,,_ _ ,, recording, each track gets its signal from a

_' -- "...... 2_"_ 2_ single mixer channel only - Track 3 from

_'_')[- ._.Q_-.,_[_-_-._._-)[- '_:- '_0"_.- .,.___>.,, .,._..,, channel 3, etc.

I---3 • When using DIRECT, the MASTER fader has

! In this example, all instruments no effect on the record level. It only affects

plugged into channels 1-4 will be [ the level going to the headphones (via

recordedonto Track1 or 3.. MONITOR LEFT and RIGHT switches). Use

These mixer channels are the CHANNEL FADER only to set record

being sent to the RIGHT, levels.

• Lower the MASTER fader to make overall for recording on either

level adjustments once you have each Track 2 orTrack 4.

--i channel's TRIM and fader level set.

• Make sure the INPUT switch of every • Press both the LEFT and RIGHT MONITOR

channel you want to record is set to switches (plus CUE if you need to hear tape

MIC/LINE. tracks or MIDI virtual tracks.)

• You can't record the stereo channels onto a

single track. See also page 38.

Punch-in or Insert Recording

I HOW to Mix Down I

"Punching in" or "insert recording" is when you record over a small

When the four tracks are all recorded, the final step is mixing them section of a previously recorded track in order to fix a mistake or

into a standard stereo format. This procedure is known as improve a performance, while keeping the rest of the track as

Remixing or Mixing down. During this procedure the tracks are before. The mixer settings should be exactly the same as they

blended together and balanced to create the desired sound, were during the original recording.

; Connections 1. Connect the LINE OUT L jack of the 424 to the left line input of

the mixdown deck, and the LINE OUT R jack, to the right line

; _,_ input.

I Punch-in/out Procedure I

Master level 2. Raise the MASTER fader to the shaded area between 7 and 8. The 424 offers 2 ways to initiate the punch- in. The first is with the

transport RECORD key, the second, with the remote foot switch.

Monitor source 3. Press the LEFT and RIGHT MONITOR selector switches. The

=o,,o_ CUE MONITOR switch must be UP. In the following example, we'll use track 2 as the punch-in track.

Preliminary 1. Either plug the source into Channel 2 if you're using DIRECT

"-'1-'-_._ recording, or turn the PAN control all the way to the right if

i Channel source to tape 4. Set all the INPUT switches on the four input channels to their

you're

recording using

RIGHT.

' _=,_._ center TAPE position. No resetting of the mixer is necessary if you're punching into a

-[_.L track you've just recorded.

Playback level 5. Press PLAY and, while listening to the tape play, use the Tape monitor 2. To hear the tape, use the TAPE CUE. Press the CUE switch in

channel faders to set each track's relative level for the desired the MONITOR switch rack. Press PLAY to play the tape. Turn up

balance. The channel 1 fader is being fed with track 1, the the TAPE CUE 2 control to the desired level.

channel 2 fader, with track 2, the channel 3 fader, with track 3, Live monitor 3. To hear the instrument, press the MONITOR RIGHT switch, andand so on.

play the instrument. You'll hear it together with the tape

6. Adjust the PAN controls to set each track's left-to-right position signals in the headphones, in mono (centered) if the MONITOR

for the desired stereo image. You may also want to use the EQ LEFT switch is Off/Up.

controls to adjust the individual tracks for the desired tonality. Adjust the PHONES and TAPE CUE controls for the desired

(For using effects, see page 25.) listening level of the headphones.

Stopping the tape will allow you to hear only the instrument.

Review 7. When the signal balance, level, and tonality sound right, rewind

the tape, and press PLAY again to check the result. 4. Set the TRK 2's RECORD FUNCTION switch to the RIGHT

position. The TRK 2 indicator will switch to light in red, and the

8. Rewind the Multitrack tape again. Put a blank tape in the respective meter will show the level from your instrument. If

mixdown deck and let it play for 10 to 15 seconds, then stop it your previous settings were disturbed, adjust the channel fader

and reset the mixdown deck's counter to zero. _ and the MASTER fader for a level matching that of the original

recording.

9. Press PLAY on the 424. _ Use the TAPE CUE 2 control to set the balance between the

Record level 10. Put the mixdown deck into its "Record Ready" mode, and adjust new signal and the recorded one in the headphones.

its input level controls for the desired record level.

11. Rewind the multitrack tape to the beginning of the recording.

12. Put the mixdown deck into Record mode then press PLAY on

the 424.

13. When the recording is done, stop both machines, rewind the

mixdown tape and listen to it.

If the mixdown tape does not sound right, make the necessary

corrections and re-do from the beginning.

20 ,_4

Bouncing Tracks (Ping-pong)

I Selecting In and Out Points I

The recording capability of the PORTASTUDIO 424 is not limited to

For both musical and technical reasons, when punching in or out of four tracks. You can "bounce" or combine tracks you have recorded

a track, you must select points that are "in the clear', i.e., in the to an empty track, and then replace the original tracks with new

pauses between phrases or notes. It sounds unnatural and makes material. A bounce is like a mixdown, except you are recording to

the insert noticeable if you record a new note before the old one one of the tracks of the 424 instead of to an external recorder. The

has ended, or are holding a note as you punch in or out. Making following diagrams depict the process.

inserts well requires some practice. Because of the spacing

between the erase and record heads, you need to anticipate your

in/out points by a fraction of a second for extremely tight cues.

TRK ! A "_ D

2 B _ E

IMPORTANT NOTE : Punch-in erases old material on the track and 3 c _1_ F

this change is permanent. A few practice runs made on recordings 4 A + B+ C

that you can freely destroy (erase) will get you accustomed to the

timing of punching in and out. Bouncingtracks 1-3 Tracks1-3

onto track 4 available for

i 1 recordingnew parts

Punching-in/out with RECORD J

;i During a bounce you can add live sources along with the

'_ prerecorded tracks, using the "empty" mixer channels not being

1. Locate the tape to a point a little lower than the expected used for tape playback. This gives you even more ways to add

punch-in point. Then, press PLAY. layers to a composition. For example, you can bounce _acks 1-3

• along with another "live" part onto track 4, for a total of four parts

I! =,Eco,o 2. When you reach JUST BEFORE the error, press RECORD. Track on one track.

_L_ 2 starts recording.

._ The old material on track 2 is being erased and you'll hear thenew material going to that track, along with other already

recorded tracks through the corresponding TAPE CUE controls. I Ping-pong Procedure I

3. To punch out of record, press PLAY. You will hear the output of

track 2 again in the monitor mix. In this example, we will combine material from tracks 1, 2 and 3

4. To stop the tape, press STOP. onto track 4 without live material or effects.

1. Set the INPUT switches of channels 1-3 to the TAPE (center)

position.

Using the Remote Footswitch (RC-30P) ]

2. Turn all the PAN controls to the Right.

If you are recording alone and are too busy playing an instrument to 3. Set the Channel Faders 1 through 3 to 7. All unused faders

push the switches, the use of the optional remote foot switch is should be OFF.

really handy. ._

4. Raise the MASTER fader to 7.

1. Plug the RC-30P into the REMOTE PUNCH IN/OUT jack on the

_1_ front ofthe 424. 5. Press the MONITOR RIGHT switch, and make sure all other

MONITOR switches (CUE, LEFT) are OFF.

2. Locate the tape to a point a little lower than the error, then

press PLAY. 6. Switch the TRK 4's RECORD FUNCTION switch to RIGHT. Make

sure that all other RECORD FUNCTION switches are set to

3. When you reach JUST BEFORE the error, press the foot switch. SAFE with their indicators lit in green.

It has the same effect as pressing RECORD and Track 2 starts

recording. 7. Rewind the tape to the beginning of the song, and press PLAY.

RC-3OP 4. To punch out of record, press again the foot switch. It has the 8. Use channel faders 1 through 3 to make any necessary level

same effect as pressing PLAY. You will hear the output from adjustments. You may want to repeat this step several times to

track 2 again in the monitor mix. get the balance correct.

5. To stop the tape, press STOP.

Using Effects with the PORTASTUDIO 424

Effects and signal processing is one of the areas I Setting Effect Send Levels ]

where you can really start to have fun

customizing your sound, and develop your own

9. When the balance is right and the level is peaking at =+6" on the unique recording style. Because there are so The goal is to keep the effect unit itself from

TRK 4 meter (or on the RIGHT meter if the METER switch is in many possibilities, it also can be confusing, distorting, while staying above the noise that

the BUSS position), stop and rewind the tape to the beginning There are many different effect units on the effect units generate. To get the best signal-to-

of the track, market, all with different controls, types of noise from most effects units, you should send

inputs and outputs, and other characteristics, it as strong a signal as you can. With a properly

10. Hold RECORD and press PLAY. Track 4 will record a copy of Read the manual of your effects device, and the set input signal in the 424, the channel EFFECT

what is on tracks 1-3. following sections to get the complete story of Send set to about 2 o'clock, and the EFFECT

what's possible for your particular situation. MASTER at about 2 o'clock, you should get a

11. You'll hear the mix being recorded on track 4 in the fairly loud signal from the EFFECT SENDjack.

headphones. If your effects device has an input level control

12. Once the recording is done, press STOP. 1. In-line processing: The processing that's of its own, it should be set so the meter or

easiest to understand doesn't involve the signal light of the effects device is just under

424 directly at all. You can plug your the overload point on peak signals. When you

13. Switch the TRK 4's RECORD FUNCTION switch back to the instrument directly into the input of the want to hear less effect overall, turn down the

SAFE position, effect device, and plug the output of the return LINE control, not the EFFECT MASTER.

device directly into a line input of the 424.

The whole signal gets processed (flanged,

doubled, limited, delayed etc.), and only I Setting the Output Level of Effect Devices ]

I Ping-pong Plus Live Material I one instrument can use that processor,

Effect pedals for guitar are typically used If the effect send level has been set properly, in

this way. To get a mix of processed ('wet') most cases the output level of the effect unit

You may use any open channels to add "live" material to the tracks and original ('dry") signal, the unit must should be set as high as possible without

have its own "MIX" or "BALANCE" control, clipping (distorting) the STEREO INPUTS of the

being re-recorded. In our example, Channel 4 of the mixer is open,

as are the stereo channels. To make use of this : 424, but low enough so that you have a

reasonable range of control. If you can get the

1. Plug the source into the MIC/LINE IN jack 4. 2. Send/return mix processing: This is the effect sound you want with the return LINE

most common method of effect processing, control in the 12to 2 o'clock range, you're in the

2. Set Channel 4's INPUT switch to MIC/LINE. especially for reverb and delay. It allows a ballpark. If, on the other hand, very small

number of different channels to use the settings of the Effects Return still give you a

3. Turn the PAN control to the Right. same effect, while allowing you to control mix drowning in effects, turn down the output

how much effect is mixed with each level of youreffectdevice.

4. Set the TRIM and Channel Fader as for any other recording, channel. Each of the lower 4 mixer

channels can send signals to the EFFECT Some effect units have rear panel switches

5. Set the other channel faders (1-3) for the final balance. Proceed SEND output jack. This output can then be setting input and output level ranges between

! with the Ping-pong procedure as before, connected to the input of an effect device. "+4" and "-20 dB'. In this case, try setting the

The processed signal output from the effect input to -20 (high sensitivity) and the output to

i You will wind up with a mix of the live instruments along with the unit is connected back to the Portastudio, +4 (full output level).

i previously recorded tracks all on track 4. using STEREO INPUTS 5-6 or 7-8, which

becomes an effect return. This effect return

I can be sent to either the L-R mix for

the CUE mix (for hearing it I Setting the Mix/Balance Control on Effectrecording,

Devices

i! only in the headphones)using the ASSIGN

I Adding Stereo Channels to a Bounce ] switch. This whole path - from the EFFECT

SEND to the reverb and back into a When it's being used in a send-return mix, set

i STEREO INPUT - is called an effects loop. the mix/balance of your effect device all the

When bouncing tracks using stereo channels 5-6 and 7-8, you must : The EFFECT control on the standard way to "wet" or full processing with no direct

channels and the EFFECT MASTER control original signal, in Send/receive processing, the

1. Set the ASSIGN to L-R. determine how much signal goes to the dry signal goes down the 424's Channel Fader

i reverb unit; the LINE control on the stereo to be mixed with the effect return signal at the

2. Make sure the source you want to add to the mix will feed the channels determine how much returns L-R MASTER. Therefore, you don't need any

l correct side. In the example of bouncing to track 4 above, the from the reverb unit. "dry" signal coming to the effects return. The

source must be connected to the Tip of a plug inserted into mix/balance control is set toward "dry" only

channel 7-8, or the Ring of a plug inserted into channel 5-6, when you're using the effects device as an in-

since these are the only connectors that feed the RIGHT side of line processor.

! the master mix.

For more information, see pp. 30-31, "Stereo Input Section".

I How to Connect Your Effects Devices I

@ @@ /

There is no absolute "right" or "wrong" way to about one thing: make sure the EFFECT

do this--there are several ways, each with its controls of those channels are set to the off

own consequences, position. Otherwise, you will be sending the

output of the effect device back to itself,

The diagram shows the most common method, which is a kind of feedback. (If the effect

EFFECT SEND feeds a reverb unit, which has a device is a digital delay, feedback has the

synthesized stereo output patched into STEREO same effect as a regeneration

(number

INPUTS 7-8. A special "stereo splitter" cable is echoes) control). An advantage of returning

i- used, with the 3-conductor (Tip-Ring-Sleeve) effects to a main channel is that you can

end plugged into LINE 7-8, and the other end EQ the effect return.

split to two 2-conductor plugs connected to the

Left and Right Outputs of the effect unit. To record reverb onto a track: Switch the

ASSIGN switch to L-R, and adjust the

Mono returns: A special feature of the STEREO controls for the sound you want.

INPUTS allows continuously variable Remember that stereo signals must be

control between left and right if desired: a recorded onto two tracks to keep their

mono effect connected to 5-6 jack will go to "stereo" effect.

both the "5-6" and "7-8" LINE controls if

nothing is plugged into the "7-8" jack. In this To hear reverb in the headphones but not

mono mode, the 5-6 LINE control adjusts record the reverb: Switch the ASSIGN

how loud the mono effect will be on the switch to the CUE position. By pressing the

Left side, and the 7-8 LINE control how loud CUE switch in the MONITOR switch rack

it will be on the Right side. You can vary you'll hear the reverb, but the recording will

the two controls to send signal anywhere be "dry'.

between the two sides, similar to using a

PAN control.

Patching effects to an input channel: There's

no law that says the output of an effects

device must be plugged into a STEREO

INPUT, either. They can also be plugged

into a MIC/LINE IN jack (Channels 1-4) just

like any other source, if you are cautious

Making an Automatically Repeating Loop Recording with Tape Sync - Using the TASCAM MTS-30

It is convenient when one passage must be repeated over and over The 424 has a SYNC feature that allows you to have your electronic

to set up an automatic loop using ZERO RETURN and MEMORY. instruments play in sync with the tape. MIDI clocks are themselves

a computer type digital language and cannot be recorded on analog

Start point Locate the tape to the desired start point, and press the Reset tape; it is necessary to convert them to recordable FSK (Frequency

ZERO button next to the counter. Set the ZERO RETURN switch to PLAY. Shift Keying) signals using an appropriate Converter, such as the

RETU.. MTS-30.

i OFF

,L,Y The MTS-30 is not a mere MIDI-FSK converter but translates MIDI

clocks into a FSK sync signal containing score "bar" information or

"Song Position Pointer', allowing the associated MIDI equipment to

End point If the red LED next to the MEMORY key is currently on, first turn it stay in sync and follow the tape no matter where you move the

off by pressing the key. Then, set the MEMORY switch to REW, and tape within a given song. The maximum stability or resolution of

®ME"ORY at the end of the section you want to repeat, press the MEMORY the synchronization is ensured by a TEAC-exclusive error correction

,_] ¢_>, _/(_ key again. Its LED will again light, showing you that the memory circuit in the MTS-30.

o_, has been entered.

mEW_ -- O MEMORY

Once the end point of your loop has been memorized, press REW. Connections The 424 has dedicated jacks for SYNC tones and can directly record

and read them without passing through the 424 mixer. A direct

The tape will be rewound back to the counter zero point, starting connection between the sync tone generator and the 424 recorder

automatically playing to the MEMO point, ensures that FSK won't accidentally leak into the audio, and

To stop the sequence Set the MEMORY switch to STOP or OFF. unwanted audio won't leak into the FSK tone.

Erasing The current MEMORY point is erased when the MEMORY key is 1. Set the DBX switch to SYNC. Make sure the Output Selector

switch on the back panel to the right (SYNC-LINE OUT) position.

pressed to turn its LED off. The MEMORY is also be erased when This defeats the dbx encode/decode for track 4 only.

the cassette is taken out from the compartment or the power is

turned off 2. Set the Track 4's RECORD FUNCTION switch to the DIRECT

position. This patches the SYNC IN jack to Track 4 and allows

NOTE : The MEMORY STOP and REW functions are active in

Record mode too. Before starting recording, be sure to erase the no channel signal to reach there.

memory or switch the MEMORY switch to OFF, to prevent 3. Connect the TAPE OUT of the MTS-30 to the SYNC IN of the

recording from stopping at an unexpected point. 424, and the SYNC OUT of the 424 to the TAPE IN of the MTS-

30.

Locating the Tape

To 000 If ZERO RETURN is set to STOP, press either F.FWD or REW to fast

Z_RO wind the tape to the counter zero point. __

RETURN _w -9 _) 0=

pt_

MTS-30 MIDI MIDI

j SYNC OUT TAPE IN ]OUT IN = I I

' MIDI/FSK

Conwrter - (MIDI SIJ.) v

To MEMORY If MEMORY is set to STOP, press either F.FWD or REW to fast wind 424 I_'1"I='1:1-'1I_ s_C,N _PEOU:r[ J_MID_.... MTDrt SequencerIN OUT- MIDI OUT

thetapetothememorypoint. U"EIRt [ f OUTluNE I'

• MEMORy _w /

C_F [_ Drum Machine

MIDI THRU

Audio Sig.

MIDI IN

Audio Sig. LiNE OUT Synthesizer I

27 28

i Features and Controls " ' , " . ., " : , " • "

1. DC IN jack : For connection to the provided 6. EQ HIGH : This controls the tonality of the

PS-P424 only. high or "treble" frequencies. Turn it to the

; / / .... right to boost the high frequency content of

/ 2. POWER switch :Turns the 424 on and off. the signal and emphasize its brilliance or

t_ .J

brightness, Turning it to the left cuts the

-(_] ...._ ((_"_9 "_"=} t , - J high frequency content, if the signal sounds

_ ! [Input Section (Channels 1-4) ] too harsh or shrill. The EQ shelving point is

,_ 10 kHz.

3. MICILINE IN jack : This 1/4" jack accepts 7. EQ LOW : Turned to the right, the control

.... unbalanced signals ranging from -50 dBV (3 boosts the bass frequencies and the signal

._ _. mV) to -10 dBV (0.3 V), depending onthe will sound relatively heavy. Tum the control

setting of the TRIM control, to the left to cut bass and make the signal

sound thinner. The EQ shelving point is 100

4..TRIM control : This sets how much Hz.

preamplification: level there is on the

MIC/LINE INputs. When TRIM is turned all 8. PAN control : This control allows you to

the way to the left (LINE position), the create stereo mixes by sending the signal

preamplifier gain is low, allowing the jack from the channel fader in continuously

"_" ,_. "_ "_/ "_ "_(_ (_) (_--_ (_(_ _--_) to accept line level sources such as variable degree to the left or right side of

_L electronic instruments or other -70 dBV the stereo mix. If the PAN is set towards

....... _ =_..... . _ _=_,_._sJ , the center, it is possible to send to both

output audio equipment. As you turn TRIM

ITA,SCAMI up, the preamplifier gain increases, and

sides at once.

a_.... when you turn TRiM full clockwise (MIC The 424 mixer has only two main mix

position), the nominal input sensitivity of outputs while the incorporated recorder

the jack increases to -50 dBV (3 mV). has four tracks. You can record all 4 tracks

at one time (using DIRECT), but when

5. INPUT switch : This controls what the recording a mix of multiple sources you

; '-'(_'-._j.._j.=-'_'- 0_0 source of the channel is, and where the must record only 2 tracks at a time : one

MIC/LINE IN source will go, from Left, one from Right. The diagram

below depicts how a channel signal goes

3._ ,__% MIG/LINE : The souroe of the mixer channel through the mixer controls to the tracks.

is the MIC/LINE INput.

: =0

TAPE (center) : The source of the mixer is PAN StereoMix Track

=ORT/JS-ru.-_IO4==4 tape playback from the multitrack. -_-_' _ _ 1

-_p____)j_-_ L _ 3

'_ _'_; _ -_._ Q TAPE and MIC/LINE _L (or R) : The source _" 2

=- =- =-. =- _ ,_ _,_,=_o_ of the mixer channel is still tape playback _i- _ R

from the multitrack, but the MIC/LINE IN L-. 4

,_.=..._ source connects directly to the MASTER

, _ fader, bypassing the mixer controls. 9. Channel Fader • This linear control varies

The left position (MIC/LINE) is used when the level feeding the MASTER fader and

..... recording instruments (in Tracking or the EFFECT send controls.

; Overdubbing).

_. ,,._ =_ • _.. .._.. _,=co_ The nominal setting position is between 7-8

I[--_'-_--_l--_ li _ I_----_ The center position (TAPE)is used during (shaded area).

Mixdown, or while bouncing tracks.

The right position (TAPE and MIC/LINE_ { Effect Send Section {

L/R) is used during Mixdown, when you

need more inputs for external MIDI virtual Through this section of the 424, channel signals

--!, tracks. In this position, the MIC/LINE IN jack are sent to external devices, primarily effects

is acting as a "Sub" or "Buss" input to the processors (such as reverb units).

: stereo mix. The only control that affects it

before the MASTER is the TRIM control. 10. EFFECT control : This gets its signal from a

" L _[_ __ _ point just after the channel fader li.e., "post

fader send') and routes the corresponding

channel signal to the EFFECT MASTER.

-- Turn the control to the right to send more

signal to the EFFECT MASTER.

11. EFFECT MASTER : This is the master Single Stereo Pair (using separate mono

volume controls for the Effect Send mix. It cables): If you only have standard mono

gets signal from the four EFFECT controls in cables, plug the left output of the unit into

the channels. It sends signal to the EFFECT the 5-6 input of the 424 (also labeled

SEND jack on the back panel. Adjust the "L/MONO'). Patch the right output of the

EFFECT MASTER until you have the correct unit into the 7-8 input of the 424 (also

level feeding your external effects device, labeled "R'). In this case, the 5-6 LINE

See p. 25, "Setting Effects Send Levels'. control sets the volume of the left side, and

the 7-8 LINE control sets the volume of the

12. EFFECT SEND output jack : This is the right side; use both LINE controls for the

output jack for the EFFECT SEND mix of the desired stereo balance.

424. Signal comes here directly from the

EFFECT MASTER level control. It is typically Mono Feature: If you have a mono-output

connected to the input of external devices device that you want to return to the center

such as reverbs, digital delays, etc. (After of the mix, connect that device to the 5-6

the signals are processed, they are usually ('L/MONO') jack, making sure the 7-8 ('R=)

returned to the 424 via STEREO INPUTS on jack is empty. In this condition, the signal

channels 5-6 and 7-8.) The Effect Send will "normal" to both LINE controls. By

system may also be used to feed a adjusting the two LINE controls separately,

separate monitor, but it will be affected by you can send signal in varying degrees to

changes to the fader, the left, right, or center of the mix similar to

using a pan pot.

i I Stereo Inputs Section I NOTE : If you're feeding a stereo signal to

i I the LIMONO jack, but have nothi,ng in the

R jack, make sure that the 7-8 UNE control

This section of the 424 includes two stereo is turned down all the way, otherwise the

signal paths which are equivalent to four stereo picture will become more mono

additional inputs. You can use these inputs as since the 7-8 UNE control will feed some

EFFECT RETURNs.

of the left signal to the right side.

13. STEREO INPUTS jacks : These jacks are the Special Mono Adaptor Plug: If you want to

3-conductor stereo (TRS) type. You can convert a Stereo Effect Return to mono

!_ connect the outputs of your effects devices operation that will feed the center of the

to these jacks, but they can be used for any mix but only use one control, wire a cable

line level input if desired. The nominal input with a TRS (stereo) plug with the Tip and

level is -10 dBV (0.3 V) ; the STEREO Ring both connected to the signal lead from

*_ INPUTS have no trim control so it cannot

the effect device as shown, It is possible to

accept microphone signals unless they are have two mono effect returns feeding the

preamplifled, center of the mix if two of these plugs are

used. This makes the 424 into a 6 input

Thanks to their special design, the STEREO mixer.

INPUTS of the 424 have various functions

(refer to diagram on the next page) :

Two Stereo Pairs (using insertion cables): ToMONO OUTPUT of

By using a special cable (sometimes called EffectsDevices

an "insert" or "stereo splitter" cable, such as

the TASCAM PW-2Y or PW-4Y), each _ |

STEREO INPUT jack can return two signals

T(left and right) from a stereo unit. The cable SignalLead

has a 3-conductor stereo 1/4" plug on one I

end, and at the other end splits into two I _ H_ -_-

cables, each with 2-conductor (mono) 1/4" _ II

plug. Plug the 3-conductor (tip-ring-sleeve)

end into the STEREO INPUT of the 424, and o

the two mono plugs into the Left and Right Toa STEREOINPUTS Jack

outputs of the effect device or synthesizer.

NOTE: On the 5-6 stereo input, the tip

signal is sent to the left, and ring to the

right. On the 7-8 input, the signals are

reversed (tip to the right, ring to the left).

19. MONITOR (headphones)selector switches 23. Output Selector switch : Determines

L/MONOJackOnly L/MONOandRJacksBothConnected : These control where the signal in your where the four jacks on the rear panel get

ReturnSignal Connected(RJackEmpty) headphones is coming from. They can be signal from. When the switch is set to the

used in combination, right, jacks 1 and 2 receive their signal from

_,_ L the stereo MASTER fader, and jacks 3 and 4

_, L _v ' .=..., LEFT : Press this to hear the Left output of act as SYNC IN and SYNC OUT,

STEREO v " S-S _ "_ _ J the mixer, so you can hear the sources repectively, when using with the MTS-30 or

___ __ .'-- goingtotapeduringrecording. Tohearthe other synchonizers. When the Output

k _ headphones, the RIGHT switch must be are switched to carry play signal of the four

OFF. tracks.

RIGHT : Press this to hear the Right output

MONO __________-,_ .1__ __- ---_ of the mixer. To hear the Right output at Recorder section I

"_ the center in the headphones, the LEFT

switch must be OFF. JCassette Loading and dbx System

n _ '_"_='_"JJ_J '_'R "l_J__'_l_Rrl"Vf""*_" --'_"P'Y_'_"_ If only either side ofthe stereo mix is active 24. Cassette compartment door:To insert or

L___o v

and both the LEFT and RIGHT switches are remove a cassette, push on the door's

on, that left or right buss feeds the lower right hand corner (marked PUSH

corresponding side of the headphone mix OPEN). Once a cassette is inserted, be sure

and cannot be heard at the center, to close the door. This will prevent objects,

14. LINE level control : This rotary control This fader controls the overall level both for dust or liquids from falling into the tape

varies the level of the Stereo Line channel, multitrack recording (when not using CUE : Press this to hear the TAPE CUE path.

in the same way that the Channel fader DIRECT) and for mixdown, section, so you can hear what's being _.

does for Channels 1-4. The nominal setting played back from the multitrack tape while Tape path components

position is about "2 o'clock'. 17. LINE OUT L-R jacks : These jacks are the overdubbing.

line-level outputs from the MASTER fader. _ _L I°(_-_ _J

15. ASSIGN switch : This sends signals coming The L and R jacks are typically connected to The stereo channels (5-6/7-8) are also be

from the LINE level control either to the L-R your two-track mixdown recorder at heard without recording by pressing this

MASTERfadar, for recording, ortotheCUE MIXDOVN. An0ther use of the LINE OUT CUE switch if their ASSIGN switch is in the [_J

system for hearing it just in the jacks is when you want to send the mixer CUE position.

headphones, outputs of the 424 to the sub inputs of a

larger mixer. For these jacks to be active, The TAPE CUE mix is always in the center.

If a stereo cable is used, the L-R position the Output Selector switch next to the L The Stereo ChanneICUE mix can either be Y _ I _Pinch roller

sends the signals separately to "hard right" jack must be in the right position, stereo or mono, depending on what signal / / Capstan

or "hard left'. If mono cables are used, the is plugged into jacks 5-6 and 7-8. See also Erasehead Record/Playhead

L-R switch can send only to one side (Ch. 5- "Stereo Input Section', items 13-15.

6 to the left, Ch.7-8 to the right). The CUE J Tape Cue and Monitor Section ] NOTE : Don't use CUE when bouncing 25. DBX switch : When this switch is set to its

position sends mono signals to the center tracks- you won_ get an acccurate picture ON position, the built-in dbx noise

of the headphone mix, and stereo signals The MONITOR section allows you to control of the mix in your phones, reduction system for all 4 tracks is turned

to its left and right sides, what you hear in the headphones, without on. This is the normal position for all

affecting what's printing to tape. The TAPE CUE recording and playback.

section is crucial to successful multitrack 20. PHONES control : This sets the level you'll

JMain Stereo Mix Master Output J recording, hear in the headphones from the When it is set to the SYNC position, Track 4

MONITOR selector switches, is disconnected from the dbx system, so

The main output of the 424 gets its signal from 18. TAPE CUE controls 1-4 : These act as a the process does not affect the sync signals

the individual channels already listed, and separate 4xl submixer. Each control gets 21. PHONES jack : Connect any stereo going to and from track 4, but tracks 1-3

sends them either to the internal multitrack signal directly from the corresponding tape headphone (with a 1/4" stereo TRS 3- still go through the dbx encode/decode

recorder, or to an external mixdown deck. track. You turn each control to set the level conductor plug) to this jack. process. SYNC also connects the DIRECT

of each track in the CUE mix. These side of Track 4's RECORD FUNCTION

16. MASTER fader : This fader is a stereo type controls are totally separate from the

22. TAPE CUE jacks : When the Output switch to the SYNC IN jack, so an incoming

and adjusts the output level of both Left Channel controls and the MASTER. Selector switch (#23) is set to the left (TAPE sync signal does not pass through the

and Right mixes simultaneously. It gets its _._.... CUE position), jacks 1-4 on the rear panel mixer. Use the SYNC position for recording

signal from the PAN controls in the The output of the TAPE CUE sUbmJxer get signal directly from the tape (jack 1 and playback of FSK sync or SMPTE time