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Gear / Technical Help => Recording Gear => Topic started by: datbrad on March 26, 2009, 09:59:55 AM
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Starting a new thread.........
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....takin' her out tonight for some onstage action.
She likes being onstage. >:D
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just got mine delivered by Fed ex 30 min ago. I like it =D
I am doing some tests atm with my mics and rechargeable batteries
more later
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Ok, received my WMOD 661 from Doug Oade yesterday.
My first impression of the unit physically:
1. Solid feel, well built, not "cheap" feeling in any respect.
2. Very intuitive menu controls and operation. I set up all my presets and settings in a few min.
3. I personally love the "brick" layout, although I know some folks are not as big on it.
4. Doug's workmanship is invisible, short of the sticker in the battery compartment and the plaque affixed in a non-descript spot on the underside of the unit. He just barely scratched the paint on the case screws.
5. SD card slot operation is smooth and easy, just like one in a good digital camera. I wish the SD slot cover had a lock screw like the 670/671, though.
6. I found the AA battery compartment a little tight on the unit I received. I felt like it took too much force and wrangling to get each battery seated between the contacts. I guess tight may be good, as the batteries will maintain a tight connection even with the recorder being jostled. It could just need to "break in" after a few insertions.
My first recording with it:
My 2 1/2 year old son has all types of music around him almost constantly, so he has become a little singer lately. He does this really cool medley of pieces of different songs that is absolutely precious. So, I plugged my 461s directly into the WMOD661 (mic sens at 0)and hand held them about a foot or so away from him and told him to sing, and he went right into his medley with air guitar and everything, about 10 mins worth.
I popped the card into the PC and played it, and all I can say is WOW. The immediate impression I got was how realistic and natural the recording sounded. Sometimes, recordings enhance sounds that were not as prominent live, and fail to reproduce sounds that were. Not this unit. Even playing back on cheap Dell desktop speakers, the recording sounded like my son was standing right there singing it again. Rich, full, and sweet, with no audible hiss whatsoever. He also leaned closer to the mic a couple of times and sang a couple of loud verses that totally hit "over" hard, and it is visibly brink walled, but not really audible. No distortion. Nice!!
I am not sure what aspects of my own personal experience can be chalked up to the warm mod, but so far I really like what I hear. Going to break the deck in for real at The Bridge here in Richmond next Friday and I will report back with my results from that show.
One more thing, I tried to get Doug to explain to me the difference between the concert and warm mods before I bought the 661, and had about six exchanges until I got what I needed to make the call.
In both mods Doug upgrades the XLR input capacitors. The Concert mod upgrades the op amps on the XLR inputs with bipolar transistors, same type used in the stock unit, only much better. Warm mod upgrades the op amps on the XLR inputs with FETs, which act more like valves, so they have that warm "tube" like quality.
While this was all great info, I needed something I could relate to. So I told Doug that I really like the M148 sound, and could he use that as a benchmark to inform the differences in sound between the concert mod and the warm mod. Doug explained that using that benchmark, the Warm Mod is like the M148 and the Concert Mod is like the M248 in terms of tone. Based on that and the fact that I run AKGs, that allowed me to make the obvious call on the Warm mod. Schoeps users would then benefit more from the Concert Mod, with it being more like the M248.
Really looking forward to putting this unit through it's paces and seeing what it can handle.
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(http://img518.imageshack.us/img518/5573/img0704.jpg) (http://img518.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0704.jpg)
(http://img164.imageshack.us/img164/2205/img0701.jpg) (http://img164.imageshack.us/my.php?image=img0701.jpg)
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doing a battery test with energizer lithium batteries, 4 1/2 hours so far at 24/48 with my akg 568's, the meter on the Marantz still shows 3 full bars.
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...checking in...
;)
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update, 8hrs on Energizer Lithium batteries. :o
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doing a battery test with energizer lithium batteries, 4 1/2 hours so far at 24/48 with my akg 568's, the meter on the Marantz still shows 3 full bars.
update, 8hrs on Energizer Lithium batteries. :o
Do you know the current draw of the AKG 568's? I think the phantom power is probably the biggest component of the power draw, and of course, each pair of mics needs a different amount of current. So it'd be a good reference to know how much current the mics draw when posted battery run times. I will say, though, that 8 hours is fantastic!
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ok....back from taping Fareed onstage. It was a short n' sweet little set at CMU.
Bad news on my Kingston card, though. MF'er stopped mid-set due to "Error Card". I swapped in another to finish the set. I will be switching to another brand asap.
Thankfully, tonedeaf was there taping also and got the whole set.
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update, 8hrs on Energizer Lithium batteries. :o
Wow, nice! I take it those are non-rechargeable AAs? And with 48V phantom for the mics? Pretty nice, although I'd like to see how they do with run of the mill ~2700mAh NiMH batteries.
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ok....back from taping Fareed onstage. It was a short n' sweet little set at CMU.
Bad news on my Kingston card, though. MF'er stopped mid-set due to "Error Card". I swapped in another to finish the set. I will be switching to another brand asap.
Thankfully, tonedeaf was there taping also and got the whole set.
What bit-rate were you recording @?
Which Kingston card?
size? speed? elite?
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update, 8hrs on Energizer Lithium batteries. :o
Wow, nice! I take it those are non-rechargeable AAs? And with 48V phantom for the mics? Pretty nice, although I'd like to see how they do with run of the mill ~2700mAh NiMH batteries.
yep, the non rechargeables, with 48v with the akg568's
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What bit-rate were you recording @?
Which Kingston card?
size? speed? elite?
Kingston SDHC 8gb Class 6
Here's a link to a sample from last night: http://www.sendspace.com/file/pcg6t4
Fareed Haque & Flat Earth Ensemble
Nakamichi CM-1000/CP102 (omnis/NOSish) > Oade Concert 661 (-18db atten.)
DFC, stagelip (basically onstage)
Recorded at 24/44.1
Soundforge 7.0: +6db gain, fades, phase correction (mic issue, not recorder's)
They keys were the only instrument solely running through PA, so it's a little distant.
Me like.
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update, 8hrs on Energizer Lithium batteries. :o
Wow, nice! I take it those are non-rechargeable AAs? And with 48V phantom for the mics? Pretty nice, although I'd like to see how they do with run of the mill ~2700mAh NiMH batteries.
yep, the non rechargeables, with 48v with the akg568's
I just looked up the AKG 56:
http://www.akg.com/site/products/powerslave,id,242,pid,242,nodeid,2,_language,EN,view,specs.html (http://www.akg.com/site/products/powerslave,id,242,pid,242,nodeid,2,_language,EN,view,specs.html)
it doesn't say exactly how much current the mics draw, but it does so <2mA.
That's an important piece of data to know when thinking about the 8 hour run-time.
to contrast that, my beyerdynamics draw 4.6mA of phantom power, so I'd expect a lot less than 8 hours when powering my mics... but thanks for doing the tests, the mroe data we have on battery life, the better :)
and Audball, bummer of the Kingston card problems. You say that you'll be looking for a new card. My current recommendation would be to stick with Marantz's recommendation of PNY or SanDisk. Although it is unfortunate that the 661 seems to be more picky about the cards compared to some other decks...
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and Audball, bummer of the Kingston card problems. You say that you'll be looking for a new card. My current recommendation would be to stick with Marantz's recommendation of PNY or SanDisk. Although it is unfortunate that the 661 seems to be more picky about the cards compared to some other decks...
Yeah, I knew I was taking a risk. I'll shoot for one of the two you mentioned when I place an order later today. I'd be more bummed if tonedeaf wasn't there taping also to get the whole thing.
I do have a show Sunday night, though, and will need to use one of the Kingstons again unfortunately. Would it be best to format one of the cards first? Should I use something like THIS (http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/sd/download/sd_formatter.html)?
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I do have a show Sunday night, though, and will need to use one of the Kingstons again unfortunately. Would it be best to format one of the cards first? Should I use something like THIS (http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/sd/download/sd_formatter.html)?
I don't think that you'd need to use a program like that. Personally, I think formatting the card in the deck before each show is the best way to go.
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and Audball, bummer of the Kingston card problems. You say that you'll be looking for a new card. My current recommendation would be to stick with Marantz's recommendation of PNY or SanDisk. Although it is unfortunate that the 661 seems to be more picky about the cards compared to some other decks...
Yeah, I knew I was taking a risk. I'll shoot for one of the two you mentioned when I place an order later today. I'd be more bummed if tonedeaf wasn't there taping also to get the whole thing.
I do have a show Sunday night, though, and will need to use one of the Kingstons again unfortunately. Would it be best to format one of the cards first? Should I use something like THIS (http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/sd/download/sd_formatter.html)?
I'd have to agree with Jason and format formatting the card in the recorder.
The only time I've personally had issues is when I formatted my card in another device and used it in another. (formatted in my Cannon camera and my Nikon had a problem with it) They both use the same file allocation, so theoretically they should be compatible.
I only had one problem with the files on a card, I wasn't at home and wanted to clear the card/but save the data. I was at my parents and used my dad's pc, since I didn't have my devices USB cable I used my dad's card reader. The audio file was corrupt (last 8 minutes were digital static) BUT it was fine before (had played it back on the 671). When I tried to play it back after the transfer the file on the card was now corrupt.
It's only one experience using a card reader, I can't say that the card reader was definitively the problem, but I've never had an issue outside of that one example. I've seen too many people that have mentioned errors/bad cards and card readers at the same time, so personally I don't feel safe using one, I'll just stick to using the device and USB.
I'd suggest transferring only via USB and formatting in the device you intend to use, stay away from card readers or formatting on another device or pc if you can.
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I'd suggest transferring only via USB and formatting in the device you intend to use, stay away from card readers or formatting on another device or pc if you can.
Thanks for the feedback. I will format my cards in the 661 when I get home. My quick listen last night to the first file recorded (that abruptly stopped) presented the digi static you mentioned above in the last few minutes of the recording.
I'm still new to this memory card recording world after being chained to my JB3 for so long.
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I do have a show Sunday night, though, and will need to use one of the Kingstons again unfortunately. Would it be best to format one of the cards first? Should I use something like THIS (http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/sd/download/sd_formatter.html)?
I don't think that you'd need to use a program like that. Personally, I think formatting the card in the deck before each show is the best way to go.
^^
Agreed. I format my cards in the deck that it will be used in each and every time before a show. Never a problem with a card up to this point. Sorry about your troubles.
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Ok....got some more SD card nonsense going on. ::)
The first file I recorded last night plays back fine on the recorder. However, once it's transferred it doesn't want to open in any player or editor program.
I ran the homegrown WAV utility, which states there's issues and that it attempts to fix them, but I just get back static (white?) noise. What's weird is the file size/length are showing up correctly. Times like this make me wish there were a digi-out on this thing.
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hmm, let me look aroud, I might have an extra SanDisc 4GB SD card I don't have a use for that you could have. (my old smart phone used SD cards, my new one uses micro...)
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Ok....got some more SD card nonsense going on. ::)
The first file I recorded last night plays back fine on the recorder. However, once it's transferred it doesn't want to open in any player or editor program.
I ran the homegrown WAV utility, which states there's issues and that it attempts to fix them, but I just get back static (white?) noise. What's weird is the file size/length are showing up correctly. Times like this make me wish there were a digi-out on this thing.
most likely, it's just that the bits are offset by one or two. Most wave editing programs will allow you to import the data as raw PCM, and then it should ask you how much offset to use when importing the data. it's a bit of a trial & error, but you'll definitely know it when you've got it right.
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It appears to be opening up in Samplitude. I think we might be ok.......jumping the gun as usual.
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For interest I've just tested my 661 powered with four 2000 mAh Sanyo Eneloop rechargeable NiMH AAs
Recording at 16/44.1, with two AT3032s (48V phantom, 3mA), LCD at maximum brightness "8", and LEDs "on" I got 3hours 54 minutes before the low battery warning came on. Recording time would probably have been a little longer if I had reduced the LCD brightness and switched off the LEDs.
It seems that 5 hours recording time will be possible with higher capacity (2700 mAh) NiMH rechargeables.
Cheers
TomR
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Battery test update:
I used a battery checker on the 4 energizer lithium that I used.
of the 4:
1 was completely drained, 1 was at 1.2v , the other 2 were almost full(1.4v).
it seems it doesn't drain them evenly and that once it got below a certain Voltage it stopped (~ 4).
I wonder if the 2 it drained the most were going in the same direction, I will have to mark the next 4 batteries I use to see if that is the case.
if this is the case, I could swap out 2 used batteries, and pop in 2 fresh batteries.
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Fareed from the other night:
http://www.archive.org/details/fhg2009-03-26.cm1k.flac24
Nak CM1000 Omnis (NOSish) > Oade Concert 661
at stage lip, ~3ft high
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Fareed from the other night:
http://www.archive.org/details/fhg2009-03-26.cm1k.flac24
Nak CM1000 Omnis (NOSish) > Oade Concert 661
at stage lip, ~3ft high
sounds real nice =D
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Here is an update on the post I made a few weeks ago about my unit that had stopped recording several times my first time out in the field. I think it was more of an SD card issue than a power issue. I had been using a Pny Optima 8 gig class 4 SDHC card and standard Duracell batteries.
I have since switched to a Sandisc Extreme III 8 gig class 6 SDHC card and my problems seem like their totally resolved. Last night I recorded for 5 hours with no problems (was using Energizer E2 Lithiums) and was still showing 3 bars of power when I turned the unit off.
Rich
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I have since switched to a Sandisc Extreme III 8 gig class 6 SDHC card and my problems seem like their totally resolved.
I placed an order for this ^ card yesterday. I'm glad to hear your issues have ceased since you made the switch. I've been having weird issues with Kingston SDHC cards lately and I'm no longer comfortable with them.
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Hey all,
maybe it is a setting issue, but i cannot get my right channel to work with the 48 v phantom on/mic on . my setting was for stero, mic in on the preset. anybody have any ideas. thanks
richard
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Hey all,
maybe it is a setting issue, but i cannot get my right channel to work with the 48 v phantom on/mic on . my setting was for stero, mic in on the preset. anybody have any ideas. thanks
richard
If the preset is selected for stereo and you have the switch set all the way to the to mic/p48 spot, I think you are setup correctly. I got the warm mod from Doug also and I did some testing over the weekend. I did notice that when I powered up the unit and hit record/pause immediately, one channel powered the mic on noticably sooner than the other one, but I really did not think much of it. You really should send Doug an email if you cannot get the right channel to send phantom.
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Finally got to spend some time in the field with my new rig (Senn 8040 > remote cables > Oade Concert PMD661), in fact it got quite a workout this past weekend! A little bigger than my old stealth rig (AT943 > BB > Oade concert PMD620), but still very compact and it sure does sound pretty!
(http://kbergend.tripod.com/2rigs.jpg)
I can confirm that this combo will run for at least 8 hours on a fresh set of Energizer lithium AAs, and generally I'm very happy with the results in a variety of recording situations. I think the concert mod may be a better match than the warm mod for these particular mics as they're not nearly as bright as AKGs. I used a PNY 16Gb SDHC card for all these shows and didn't have any problems, although I was only recording at 24/44.1. A couple of people have expressed interest in hearing samples, so here are a few 24-bit FLACs. These were all recorded with the attenuation setting at -12dB, no editing other than fades and adding some gain.
Over the Rhine at Canal Street Tavern, Dayton OH 03-27-2009 (ORTF mounted on column, 10' from stage 4' LoC 8' up)
http://tapers.org/kbergendorff/samples/otr2009-03-27sample1.flac
http://tapers.org/kbergendorff/samples/otr2009-03-27sample2.flac
(FTR the above tracks will be combined with the board's mixed outs for the final recording)
Cowboy Junkies with the Louisville Symphony Orchestra at Whitney Hall, Louisville KY 03-38-2009 (head mounted 8" apart, 1st row mezzanine about 60' from stage 8' LoC)
http://tapers.org/kbergendorff/samples/cj2009-03-28sample1.flac
http://tapers.org/kbergendorff/samples/cj2009-03-28sample2.flac
Béla Fleck and the African Project at Tarrytown Music Hall, Tarrytown NY 03-29-2009 (head mounted 8" apart, 8th row DFC)
http://tapers.org/kbergendorff/samples/bf2009-03-29sample1.flac
http://tapers.org/kbergendorff/samples/bf2009-03-29sample2.flac
I'm cross-posting these in the Sennheiser "actives" thread.
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i talked to doug. apparently i have a bad 661. not sure, but i have to send it back. no trying it mic in for me this week.
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here's another battery test.
Duracell NiMH rechargeable AA's (2650mAH).
using beyerdynamic CK930's, phantom power on, OLED screen at the dimmest setting (which is still plenty bright enough to easily see in the dark), deck set to 24/96.
3 hours, 52 minutes. just shy of 4 hours. 1 hour and 12 minutes longer than my test with regular Energizer Alkalines. that's pretty good, and certainly long enough for a typical 2 set show (though maybe pushing it for an opener + 2 set show).
also, of note is that I was running 24/96 on my PNY 16 gb sdch (class 4), with autosplit off. after the deck died, I had three files, the first two were 3815MB, which in the computer world (of 1024MB = 1GB) is 3.7256 GB, but in the world of 1 GB = 1,000 MB = 1,000,000 KB = 1,000,000,000 Bytes, the comptuer file size of 3815 MB = 4,000,317,440 Bytes. So that's the 4GB limit after which a new file is started. Anyway, a bit of a tangent there. I have two 3815 MB files, and a 27 MB file. It looks like the last file closed properly, and no issues with 24/96 on my PNY card.
I've also decided to organize all of the battery tests into a list with standard info... I went through the previous 25 page thread, and I think I got them all. However, if I missed one of the battery tests, please let me know and I'll add it to the table.
- Battery Type
- Battery Capacity
- PMD-661 Phantom Power
- mics used (current draw per mic)
- run time
- Battery Type = Tekkeon MP3450
- Battery Capacity = 10,000 mAH (5V setting)
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = beyerdynamic ck930 (4.6mA)
- run time (notes) = 15+ hours (3 of 8 lights on the tekkeon power meter still on after 15 hours)
- Battery Type = Energizer MAX alkaline AA's
- Battery Capacity = ??
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = beyerdynamic ck930 (4.6mA)
- run time = 2 hours, 40 minutes
- Battery Type = Duracell NiMH rechargeable AA's
- Battery Capacity = 2,650 mAH
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = beyerdynamic ck930 (4.6mA)
- run time = 3 hours, 52 minutes
- Battery Type = Energizer Lithium AA's
- Battery Capacity = ??
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = AKG 568 (<2mA)
- run time = 8 hours
- Battery Type = Energizer E2 Lithium AA's
- Battery Capacity = ??
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = Schoeps cmc6/mk4 (4mA)
- run time = 5+ hours (3 bars of power on PMD-661 display at end of show)
- Battery Type = Energizer Lithium AA's
- Battery Capacity = ??
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = Sennheiser MKH8040 (3.3mA)
- run time = 8+ hours
- Battery Type = Energizer Lithium AA's
- Battery Capacity = ??
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = Neumann km184 (3.2mA)
- run time = 6.5 hours
- Battery Type = Duracell NiMH rechargeable AA's
- Battery Capacity = 2650 mAH
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = Nevatons (??)
- run time = 4 hours
- Battery Type = Energizer NiMH rechargeable AA's
- Battery Capacity = 2450 mAH
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = Neumann km184 (3.2mA)
- run time = 5 hours
- Battery Type = Energizer NiMH rechargeable AA's
- Battery Capacity = 2450 mAH
- PMD-661 Phantom Power = on
- mics used (current draw per mic) = AKG 568 (<2mA)
- run time = 5 hours, 15 minutes
Alright, so far it looks like the non-rechargeable lithium AA's are better than the NiMH rechargeable AA's. both of which are better than regular alkalines. And going to an external battery solution, very long run times are possible.
Again, if I've missed any battery test reports, please let me know and I'll update this list. Also, I'll try to keep it updated moving forward as more people do battery tests.
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Alright, so far it looks like the non-rechargeable lithium AA's are better than the NiMH rechargeable AA's. both of which are better than regular alkalines. And going to an external battery solution, very long run times are possible.
Again, if I've missed any battery test reports, please let me know and I'll update this list. Also, I'll try to keep it updated moving forward as more people do battery tests.
Jason, Great work! Good to know the runtimes for the Duracell 2650s, because that is what I will be using in my 661. Just wondering, since you have this testing process down with good documentation, could you possibly repeat the test running XLR Line in? I plan to keep running a pre in front, and also will be running the occasional SBD, so I am curious how much longer the 661 will run on line in, without the added power drain to drive the internal mic preamp and supply phantom power to the mics. If you are able to incorporate a line in test into a future battery trial, that would be really appreciated, I am certain.
Thanks!!!!
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could you possibly repeat the test running XLR Line in? I plan to keep running a pre in front, and also will be running the occasional SBD, so I am curious how much longer the 661 will run on line in, without the added power drain to drive the internal mic preamp and supply phantom power to the mics.
I can't do that right now. I don't have an external pre-amp anymore, and I don't even have a set of RCA > XLR (m) cables to run something from my home stereo into the PMD-661. I would assume that the phantom power uses a significant portion of the total power draw, so if you were using an external pre-amp and not using the PMD-661's internal phantom power, I would expect a sizeable increase in battery run-time... but I just don't have the gear to test it now. Why don't you run the tests and share your results with us? I'll update the list after you do :)
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could you possibly repeat the test running XLR Line in? I plan to keep running a pre in front, and also will be running the occasional SBD, so I am curious how much longer the 661 will run on line in, without the added power drain to drive the internal mic preamp and supply phantom power to the mics.
I can't do that right now. I don't have an external pre-amp anymore, and I don't even have a set of RCA > XLR (m) cables to run something from my home stereo into the PMD-661. I would assume that the phantom power uses a significant portion of the total power draw, so if you were using an external pre-amp and not using the PMD-661's internal phantom power, I would expect a sizeable increase in battery run-time... but I just don't have the gear to test it now. Why don't you run the tests and share your results with us? I'll update the list after you do :)
Sure, I can try to do something to test the power used for just XLR line in. I definately agree that without the phantom, it's got to increase the run times significantly. I will try to work out a test of the XLR line in using the 2650 Duracells this weekend, and post the result. Whatever proportional increase in run time with internals I find should apply to all the other powering methods you tested.
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Got my new Sandisk Extreme III 8gb SDHC card in the mail yesterday. I ran it last night for about 4-5 groups for 3h 45m on one track with no problems.
Also, my battery level was still full running internals (Sanyo AA NiMH 2700mah).
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I recorded LosBlancos in Rome, NY tonight. I used the Neumann 184's > OCM PMD 661 @ 24bit/48khz. came out fantastic. Ran the mics 7 1/2 ft XY, 10 ft from Stage. Very Happy with the results, I will post samples and torrent later. Everything about this deck is easy to use. the Neumann's sound really nice with the OCM. TY Oade Brothers 8)
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Here is a sample from Los Blancos last night.
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=2QQ1WELK
this is Neumann skm184 > OCM PMD661, 7-1/2 ft(X,Y), 10ft from stage.
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anyone measured the phantom voltage on theirs?
I'm getting ~44v.
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anyone measured the phantom voltage on theirs?
I'm getting ~44v.
I just measured mine. One channel was 44.7v and the other was 44.9v... Don't forget that the phantom voltage spec is 48v +/- 4v, so even though it seems low, it is still within the phantom voltage specification.
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I'm not really alarmed, just figured it was worth noting. My mics operate on anywhere from 9-48v so I'm certainly not worried.
Is there an easy way to test under-load?
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I am also not really concerned (the beyerdynamic's spec are from 12v-48v), but I agree, it is worth noting.
for mics with specs only at "48v", I don't know of any real way to test if the mics are getting enough voltage (of course, keeping in mind the +/- 4v, and also keeping in mind that the specs are for the open voltage, and that every mic will see a lower voltage when the circuit is under load). From what I recall, there's no real good way to know how an underpowered mic will operate. Some mics will just have a lower max SPL that they can handle, while other mic's performance drops off more significantly.
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Checking in after taping first show with the WMOD 661, Friday 4-3, The Bridge in Richmond. Went XLR line in with AKG 461s running into a pair of SD MP-1 mono preamps. The recording sounds great, and the deck was very easy to work with during the show.
I did not do a controlled battery test, but I can report that after recording a 2 hour show, transferring the file off the unit to a PC, and using it for a few minutes of ambient recording a couple of times over the weekend, the battery indicator still shows a full charge on Duracell 2650 rechargables.
Based on this, I would say that if you are running a 661 XLR line in, you can expect battery life will be substantially longer than the 3:52 Jason found with the 2650 rechargables running mic in with phantom.
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Wondering about the stealthability of this device... I'm looking to upgrade from the iRiver, but I still tape mostly stealth shows. I've read every post about the device so far and it sounds great, but how does it look and feel for stealth? Any stealth-action being seen by the PMD661? How are those "levels" knobs on the bottom? They look like they might be easy to twist on accident. Thanks for everything!
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Wondering about the stealthability of this device... I'm looking to upgrade from the iRiver, but I still tape mostly stealth shows. I've read every post about the device so far and it sounds great, but how does it look and feel for stealth? Any stealth-action being seen by the PMD661? How are those "levels" knobs on the bottom? They look like they might be easy to twist on accident. Thanks for everything!
Have you considered the PMD620? its very small and can be modded by Oade Brothers.
the knobs could be bumped, nothing a little tape couldn't solve.
Edit: I am sure its stealthy, people have used the PMD660 for stealth purposes and this is smaller then the 660 by a bit.
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Have you considered the PMD620?
Main thing I like about the 661 over the 620 is the XLR in. Though I mostly do stealth shows (using exclusively 3.5mm connections), I do run my stealth gear as an open rig occasionally as well. I will soon be purchasing my first "open rig mics"-- AT4041's. I think that if I'm able to make this 661 work as a stealthable device for my stealth rig (CA14's / CAFS's & CA 9100), I might be able to save money buying the power supply and A/D that I'd need for the AT4041's if I were instead to purchase the R-09HR, as I had originally been planning, or the PMD620 you mention. (Jeez... did that make sense???)
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I think that if I'm able to make this 661 work as a stealthable device for my stealth rig (CA14's / CAFS's & CA 9100), I might be able to save money buying the power supply and A/D that I'd need for the AT4041's if I were instead to purchase the R-09HR, as I had originally been planning, or the PMD620 you mention.
R-09HR + power supply ought to be cheaper than the 661, especially if you are getting it with Oade mods. But the convenience of an all-in-one box will be nice.
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The gain knobs on the 661 are very tight and require a little umph to turn them. I can't imagine a slight bump affecting your levels on this device.
As for stealthability, that's entirely subjective. The two protective metal loops on the left/right sides of the gain knobs and headphone jack work well for attaching a strap.
From there, improv is key!
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I created a markup PMD661 so that I could actually hold it and see exactly what these measurements mean. I was curious to see if it could be stealthed. I constructed it in photoshop by combining the device's published dimensions and photos of the device. My final opinion is that it would be slightly difficult to stealth. Not impossible, but certainly not as easy as my h120 or the R-09HR I'm considering. I've saved it as a pdf and attached it below so that future people considering the device as a stealth device may print this out and hold one for themselves =)
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in regards to stealth, it all depends what type of shows. It's certainly not as small as the PMD-620 or R09HR, but it's still a small deck. On the occasions where I need to be discrete, I'll have no trouble getting in with this deck... but then, I'm not going to shows with major patdowns or metal detectors or whatnot...
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I am thinking of my "ultimate" rig consisting of DPA 4022 mics + Marantz PMD661 or Tascam DR-100.
Lotsa bucks though..especially for the 4022...gotta sleep over it HAHA.
I do stealth 95% but I know some clubs here in Vienna without securities... >:D
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Checking in after taping first show with the WMOD 661, Friday 4-3, The Bridge in Richmond. Went XLR line in with AKG 461s running into a pair of SD MP-1 mono preamps. The recording sounds great, and the deck was very easy to work with during the show.
When are you going to try out the W-mod? I haven't heard any feedback on one yet.
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Checking in after taping first show with the WMOD 661, Friday 4-3, The Bridge in Richmond. Went XLR line in with AKG 461s running into a pair of SD MP-1 mono preamps. The recording sounds great, and the deck was very easy to work with during the show.
When are you going to try out the W-mod? I haven't heard any feedback on one yet.
Each of the 3 types of modifications Doug Oade does on the 661 upgrades the entire XLR analog input path, which covers both mic and line inputs. Only the 1/8" line 2 input is not modded. I did some home tests when I got the unit by recording studio CDs on my home system cranked to near concert levels. Sonically, I could hear little or no difference between the two methods and the values on the EQ graphs for each frequency were within +/-1 db of each other between the two methods, confirming the warm mod is always in play. However, I noticed that running the outboard preamps, I had significantly more headroom remaining, and about half the battery drain.
Since running the unit with mics directly in really calls for adding outboard power supply, I figure carrying the extra boxes for the preamps and not needing external power on the 661, as wells as getting more headroom overall is enough of a benefit to keep using the preamps in front. But, if I was in a pinch and had to run mic in, I also know it sounds fine that way too.
Besides matching best with AKGs, one of the other reasons I chose the warm mod was that Doug said it would be better for SBD feeds than the concert mod, since SBD sources can often be dry and too bright, lacking body in the mid range.
I would say based on my short time with this unit, and listening to sources using the concert mod, that Doug's original comparison in sound with the warm mod sounding like the M148 preamp, and the concert mod sounding like the M248 is a valid one.
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I created a markup PMD661 so that I could actually hold it and see exactly what these measurements mean. I was curious to see if it could be stealthed. I constructed it in photoshop by combining the device's published dimensions and photos of the device. My final opinion is that it would be slightly difficult to stealth. Not impossible, but certainly not as easy as my h120 or the R-09HR I'm considering. I've saved it as a pdf and attached it below so that future people considering the device as a stealth device may print this out and hold one for themselves =)
Agreed ;D
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Checking in after taping first show with the WMOD 661, Friday 4-3, The Bridge in Richmond. Went XLR line in with AKG 461s running into a pair of SD MP-1 mono preamps. The recording sounds great, and the deck was very easy to work with during the show.
When are you going to try out the W-mod? I haven't heard any feedback on one yet.
Each of the 3 types of modifications Doug Oade does on the 661 upgrades the entire XLR analog input path, which covers both mic and line inputs.
Thanks for the info, I didn't know that.
I'm just making an assumption, but I'm guessing that if the mod upgrades all of the XLR input path, the XLR line-in is essentially a padded mic in much similar to the way the r4 is made. Basically there is no true line in via XLR and that it would pass through the pre-amp stage. It might be slightly noisier than a true line-in, but Dougs mods clean it up quite a bit, with also gaining the ability to add some flavor line in.
I was going to order the ACM when I got my tax return, but he didn't have the WMOD last time I looked on his page.
I'm wondering if Doug has any plans on putting up some ACM/WMOD samples on his site, I'd like to hear them both.
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Another battery test:
Neumann 184 > PMD661(48v on) with energizer lithium - 6.5 hours.
from the Neumann website they draw 3.2mA
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Another battery test:
Neumann 184 > PMD661(48v on) with energizer lithium - 6.5 hours.
from the Neumann website they draw 3.2mA
I just updated the "master" battery test list with this info (back on page 3 of this thread). Thanks.
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,119213.msg1597270.html#msg1597270 (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,119213.msg1597270.html#msg1597270)
I'm wondering if Doug has any plans on putting up some ACM/WMOD samples on his site, I'd like to hear them both.
Last I spoke with Doug (a couple of weeks ago), he was thinking about posting some samples on his site, and asked me if I thought it would be worthwhile. I told him I did, but it certainly couldn't hurt to email Doug directly and ask for samples. He should have samples of the Concert Mod, and I'd be surprised if he didn't also have samples of the warm mod.
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I'm just making an assumption, but I'm guessing that if the mod upgrades all of the XLR input path, the XLR line-in is essentially a padded mic in much similar to the way the r4 is made. Basically there is no true line in via XLR and that it would pass through the pre-amp stage. It might be slightly noisier than a true line-in, but Dougs mods clean it up quite a bit, with also gaining the ability to add some flavor line in.
Doug told me that the line input stage is not a padded mic input like the R4 and R44. When you move the mechanical switch to line on the back of the 661, you are mechanically switching the signal path to the +4 db pro level line input. There is an second gain stage (also modded) for mic in, but both share the same input capacitors and first gain stage after the XLRs. This is another reason I love this unit. The ACM 671, for example, only upgrades the mic inputs at the XLRs, not the RCA line input path, so you don't get the benefit of the mod line in. When you buy a mod 661, you benefit from upgrades that improve both mic and line input sources through the XLR input.
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another battery test :P
Energizer NI-MH , 2450 mAh
Neumann 184's >661, P48 on
5hours
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another battery test :P
Energizer NI-MH , 2450 mAh
Neumann 184's >661, P48 on
5hours
added to the list:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,119213.msg1597270.html#msg1597270 (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,119213.msg1597270.html#msg1597270)
:)
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from Doug:
I found the 661 problem, a bad phantom power resistor. it is inside the part that a bad connection develops causing a loss of phantom power on that channel.
Doug had to do a decent amount of bench testing to get this unit to not give phantom power. it did it from the get-go when i had it. i would recommend anyone who gets a new 661 to test it right out of the box, don't wait till you have travelled across the country to find it bad in your hotel room. good day all
richard
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This should be my last battery test:
Energizer NI-MH, 2450 mAh
AKG 568 > 661, P48 on
5hours 15 minutes
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This should be my last battery test:
Energizer NI-MH, 2450 mAh
AKG 568 > 661, P48 on
5hours 15 minutes
I just added it to the list:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,119213.msg1597270.html#msg1597270 (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,119213.msg1597270.html#msg1597270)
we've got a pretty good sample size of battery tests now... but if anyone else wants to add to it, just post here :)
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here's another d'Elf recording with the PMD-661:
http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac16 (http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac16)
or
http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac24 (http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac24)
I had my beyerdynamic's -15dB switch engaged, and didn't run into any brickwalling/overloading issues (like I did before), which is great.
the files on the LMA have been normalized (based on the peaks), but other than that, no other changes to the recording.
the more I use this deck, the more that I am impressed with it, both from a functionality standpoint and from the sound quality.
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Here's some recent stage-lip jazzy stuff I've been taping lately:
http://cid-08791ad30ebf6b87.skydrive.live.com/browse.aspx/.Public/ColterHarper
nak cm1k cards > oade concert pmd661
The 4/5's are 24bit
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here's another d'Elf recording with the PMD-661:
http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac16 (http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac16)
or
http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac24 (http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac24)
the more I use this deck, the more that I am impressed with it, both from a functionality standpoint and from the sound quality.
^^
Good to hear. An Oade 661 is in my near future.
:coolguy:
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here's another d'Elf recording with the PMD-661:
http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac16 (http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac16)
or
http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac24 (http://www.archive.org/details/clubdelf2009-04-16.ck930.flac24)
the more I use this deck, the more that I am impressed with it, both from a functionality standpoint and from the sound quality.
^^
Good to hear. An Oade 661 is in my near future.
:coolguy:
Same here.
I have a 660 busman mod right now and love it.
I think the transition is a no-brainer at this point.
They both seem to run the same basic way.
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Here is another recording with my Oade OCM PMD661:
http://www.archive.org/details/TheDead2009-04-17.TheDead09-04-17_AKG568_LaPorte_16bitFLAC
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Hi guys
I just ordered the PMD 661 Supermod from Doug, but I am totally confused as which mic to buy for it.
I will be using it for recording Fx, foley, etc. – basically samples for my music – like Amon Tobin does ;-)
Anything from roaring tigers to strange city noises and live music. Initially I was thinking about the stereo pair of Oktavas Mk 012 – with three capsules – as it seems very flexible and my studio would also benefit from those. Are there any other options within this budget and flexibility? I cant spend more than 600$ on it.
I would appreciate any suggestions
Peace
Marty
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Initially I was thinking about the stereo pair of Oktavas Mk 012 – with three capsules – as it seems very flexible and my studio would also benefit from those. Are there any other options within this budget and flexibility? I cant spend more than 600$ on it.
From what I've heard, the Octavas sound pretty good, but you could also consider Busman's mics, the BSC1 which come with I think 4 sets of capsules for $450. Seem to be well regarded around here.
http://busmanaudio.com/bsc1.html (http://busmanaudio.com/bsc1.html)
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Damn - those look promising and seem as flexible as the mk 012's. Are those considered better than Oktavas? Cause the price point is quite attractive...
What about those mk 012's moded by Michael Joly? A bit more pricey – how do those stand against busman?
thanks for help
M
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I got mine from Doug today! I had a lot of fun playing with it. Good build. Intuitive interface. I'm currently still running my Oade Micro Condensor Binaural plug-in power mics. I'll eventually move up to some nice phantom powered mics, probably Schoeps.
Instead of going with the battery box, I got a mini to XLR converter that steps down phantom 48v to plug-in power voltage. I only found it one place, and these guys were a pleasure to deal with. Fast service for custom work.
http://www.soundprofessionals.com/cgi-bin/gold/category.cgi?item=SP-XLRM-MINI-2&source=froogle
First show I have plans to record is McCoy Tyner and Bobby Hutcherson this Sunday. Woohoo. ;D
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First show I have plans to record is McCoy Tyner and Bobby Hutcherson this Sunday. Woohoo. ;D
I'd love to hear the McCoy Tyner show if it turns out nice...
:coolguy:
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Alex Skolnick Trio from last night:
http://www.archive.org/details/ast2009-04-24.cm1k.flac16
nak cm1k (~25cm, ~80deg) > oade concert 661 (-18db)
~3ft back from stage lip, ~3ft high
I also have nak 700 omnis (nos) > v3 from the same stand here:
http://www.archive.org/details/ast2009-04-24.cm702.flac16
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First show I have plans to record is McCoy Tyner and Bobby Hutcherson this Sunday. Woohoo. ;D
I'd love to hear the McCoy Tyner show if it turns out nice...
:coolguy:
Dito!
:)
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I think that several of you are using these cards with the PMD661, is everything still unproblematic with these, if this is the card that you're using:
http://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-SDSDRX3-8192-A21-Extreme-SDHC-Black/dp/B000XZCIX4
edging closer...
;)
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Those recordings sound great! Thanks for posting them. I've been thinking alot about putting together my first rig, and I'm leaning toward and Oade-mod PDM-661 as my deck, so it's nice to hear this unit combined w/ various mics. Especially without an external pre or A/D, b/c I think that's how I'm gonna go, at least to start. A proper pre can always be added later if needed.
If anyone has recordings of AKG 480's>PDM-661, please let me know...I've searched LMA, but the closest I can find is 568's>661. Since I don't plan on running guns, I don't know how accurate of a prediction this is as to what I can expect.
FWIW: Chris: Those 568>661 Dead shows are SMOKIN'!
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Chicago Afrobeat Project - The Underground @ Carnegie Mellon University - 4/23/09
stage lip, ~3ft high, center, wide ~DIN
http://www.archive.org/details/cabp2009-04-23.cm1k.flac16
These guys were on point! If you are remotely into Fela or afrobeat, definitely give this one a spin.
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First show I have plans to record is McCoy Tyner and Bobby Hutcherson this Sunday. Woohoo. ;D
I'd love to hear the McCoy Tyner show if it turns out nice...
:coolguy:
Dito!
:)
Same here.
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I am using exacly that card with no issues ~10 shows so far.
I think that several of you are using these cards with the PMD661, is everything still unproblematic with these, if this is the card that you're using:
http://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-SDSDRX3-8192-A21-Extreme-SDHC-Black/dp/B000XZCIX4
edging closer...
;)
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Thanks for the confirmation!!
:)
I am using exacly that card with no issues ~10 shows so far.
I think that several of you are using these cards with the PMD661, is everything still unproblematic with these, if this is the card that you're using:
http://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-SDSDRX3-8192-A21-Extreme-SDHC-Black/dp/B000XZCIX4
edging closer...
;)
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Thanks for the confirmation!!
:)
I am using exacly that card with no issues ~10 shows so far.
I think that several of you are using these cards with the PMD661, is everything still unproblematic with these, if this is the card that you're using:
http://www.amazon.com/SanDisk-SDSDRX3-8192-A21-Extreme-SDHC-Black/dp/B000XZCIX4
edging closer...
;)
in my opinion, there's no need to pay extra for the SanDisk Extreme III series of cards. One of the cards I use is an 8gb SanDisk Ultra II card, and no issues with 24/96 over extended periods of time. I have no doubt that the Extreme III is a great card and will work with no problems, but you'll pay more for it relative to the Ultra II series. (FWIW, I also use a 16gb PNY class 4 card - also have no issues with 24/96 over extended periods of time.)
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Thanks for weighing in Jason - I hope to order my concert mod 661 this week...
I wonder if future firmware upgrades will enhance compatibility with Kingston sdhc cards? The only reason that I bring this up is that I already have a bunch of Kingston sdhc cards on hand.
:)
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Well, I was really excited about this McCoy Tyner and Bobby Hutcherson show, but it was also the last day of the ski season at Kirkwood. I thought I could get a half day in and make it down for the show. Everything went great, I was able to pick up an SD card at Costco, get home and change, get the rig ready and I got to the show well before 8:00, which would have been great if the show hadn't actually started at 7:00! Great disappointment and panic. :o The little old lady pulling up and tearing our tickets couldn't have been nicer or slower. We missed about half the show.
The good news is that the new rig performed very well. I was not well set up upon arrival, and so had to make some connections and get started discretely in the dark after having drawn attention to myself by arriving in the middle of the show. I did this mostly by feel, and that went fine. The three songs I got sound fantastic, best I've ever recorded. I'm impressed that even with my same little mics, between the higher resolution and the improved preamps, it sounds so much better than what I was getting with the good old DAT deck.
My impressions on using the new 661: The screen is very bright even on the lowest brightness setting. The screen can be set to auto darken, but this is only the upper part of the screen, the strip along the bottom indicating the functions of the buttons and the recorder status never darkens. I think I'll be covering this with a flap of black cardboard, or maybe a dark lighting gel. The XLR plugs being opposite the record level knob is not ideal for recording with the 661 in a bag. I have ordered some right angle XLR extensions to help with this. Otherwise I love it.
This is my first 24/96 source recording. I work in Peak 6 on a Mac. I was presented with about 15 different dithering algorithms, ended up using DCAT15, described as best for high dynamic range music. I'd welcome any input on peoples preferences for dithering, particularly in Peak. I've attached a shot of the EQ settings I used.
McCoy Tyner Trio with Bobby Hutcherson - Palace of Fine Arts, San Francisco, CA - April 26, 2009 (partial show)
24/48 version:
http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=247229 (http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=247229)
16/44.1 version:
http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=247226 (http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=247226)
Enjoy!
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Thanks for the links...
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My impressions on using the new 661: The screen is very bright even on the lowest brightness setting. The screen can be set to auto darken, but this is only the upper part of the screen, the strip along the bottom indicating the functions of the buttons and the recorder status never darkens.
Is this setting within the Presets? I don't recall reading about this in the manual. Once set, I assume you can only view the dotted (colored) levels at the bottom of the unit?
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Is this setting within the Presets? I don't recall reading about this in the manual. Once set, I assume you can only view the dotted (colored) levels at the bottom of the unit?
There are some settings under Display at the top level. When set to darken, a strip along the bottom of the screen does not darken, this is where "Rec" "Play" "Stop" etc are displayed, and also the various functions of the two function buttons are displayed here. Touching the display button causes the rest of the screen to illuminate, which then goes off after the interval set.
There is a separate setting for the LED levels. Turning these off also turns off the red LED around the record button which otherwise blinks on record pause and is steadily lit during recording.
I wish the unit came with the wired remote. I'm having a hard time finding anyone who has it in stock, all backordered. Maybe marantz didn't anticipate how popular this option would be.
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^ Cool. Thanks for the info.
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I had a chance to record Mingus Amungus at Yoshi's in San Francisco last week openly, so I thought I'd use that as an opportunity to check out the internal mics. I like them better than my little Oade binaural mics. Now to get some real mics.
I've posted 16 and 24 bit versions. No EQ has been applied.
Mingus Amungus - Yoshi's, San Francisco, CA - April 29, 2009 late show - 24/48 version:
http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=248000
16/44.1 version:
http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=247994
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Anyone know anything about the new Firmware Update that is posted on the Marantz site?
Just wondering if anyone has done the update.....
http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4405&Tab=FAQ
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Thanks for the notice, Goldy. I wasn't aware of the update. I wish they stated just what the firmware update included.
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I also hadn't noticed the firmware update.
I downloaded the .zip file, hoping that there would be a text file or PDF or something with the info that AudBall is looking for (exactly what changes the firmware includes... issues resolved, bugs fixed, enhanced features, etc, etc) But it doesn't look like any of that info is included in the .zip file either. I just sent an email to their tech support, and I'll post back with any info that I can get.
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Just got this info in regards to firmware version A1.14
The PMD661 update improves card compatability and resolves minor bug issues listed below. We recommend that you update your machine.
1. When powering off by sliding POWER while the door open the folder ‘MPGLANG1’ might be created.
2. Processing cannot be canceled even if the STOP is pressed during the ‘Executing’ displayed.
3. In the status of Low Battery (battery symbol flashing) the flash timing of the record symbol is not correct in Record Pause mode.
4. Available to set the time of Timer Rec and Playback even the both times are in conflict or incompatible.
5. A sound break might be occurred when the multiple files made by Manual Track will be played back continuously.
6. “Err D.IN” will be displayed for an instant when you did record via Digital IN.
7. In Seek(-) mode (audible search) a sound for a second might be repeated when it plays back in cross over a file.
8. At the setting menu for Timer Rec/Play the message “Store?” might be displayed even any editing is not done.
9. Not available to divide a file that has been set into the Timer Playback and “PlayReserved” will be displayed.
10. At the file renaming when you press the ENTER with no change, the display says “AlreadyExists” and does not move to anywhere.
11. A noise like ‘White Noise’ will be heard via speaker in Stop, Play Pause and Play Stop modes.
12. Make the unit in Rec Pause mode and a minute later, adjust the Rec Level then start recording, the message changes “Err Card 9” to “Err Card 10”
13. The display says “Err Card 1” and no operation is available when a 4GB Kingston card is used for.
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13. The display says “Err Card 1” and no operation is available when a 4GB Kingston card is used for.
^ Interesting. I wonder if this fixes the bugs with the Kingston cards I had.
I still have one Kingston SDHC 8gig (that appeared to be from a different production run that my other two I had) that has NEVER produced an error in the 661.
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Exercise caution when updating the firmware! Some people had troubles updating the PMD620 firmware, resulting in a "bricked" recorder. Although the PMD661 and 620 are (obviously) different machines, I wouldn't be surprised if this problem can occur in the 661 too. Both run very similar firmware and have the same update procedure.
But what really caught my eye is that the nearly identical firmware update instructions both end with the exact same warning: "Please DO NOT touch and DO NOT disconnect power while the unit is being updated. Before you update the unit, make sure that the power cable is firmly plugged into the PMD661 [620] and into an AC outlet. If the power is turned off accidentally while the unit is being updated, the PMD661 [620] may not start up."
I was advised to use a surge protector, and not touch the recorder, power supply or cable until the upgrade was complete...
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Yeah, Aaron, I suggest leaving the room while it is updating firmware. Don't even look at the thing. ;)
I read about some issues people had with 7xx's during firmware updates (cables getting pulled while updating, power shutting off, etc..) that rendered their units unable to power up and having to be sent back to SD. Actually, wasn't that you, Jason? Have you completed your 661 update yet?
I may hold off for just a bit to update mine as everything seems to be working fine for now.
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Yeah, Aaron, I suggest leaving the room while it is updating firmware. Don't even look at the thing. ;)
I read about some issues people had with 7xx's during firmware updates (cables getting pulled while updating, power shutting off, etc..) that rendered their units unable to power up and having to be sent back to SD. Actually, wasn't that you, Jason? Have you completed your 661 update yet?
I may hold off for just a bit to update mine as everything seems to be working fine for now.
yes, that was me, with a borrowed 722. I stood up to walk away while the deck's firmware was being updated, and my foot caught the power cord and yanked it out. It was dead, and had to be sent back to Sound Devices. Luckily for me, Simon (sycue) was very understanding, and all I had to do was pay for shipping, and SD got the deck going again for free.
based on that experience, I've been very careful with all other firmware updates on all decks since then :)
I haven't yet done this PMD-661 firmware update yet. I'm still debating in my head whether or not to do it this weekend, and maybe I'll put it off until after next Wednesday, which is the next show I'm recording.
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ouch....didn't mean to call you out like that. I hope I didn't resurrect any firmware nightmares. :) I can only imagine how you felt with someone else's deck in your hands. Glad everything worked out in the end.
As for the update, I might play around with my remaining Kingston and see if I can replicate one of my past card errors. If I can, I'll do the update. Otherwise, I'll hold off for a bit.
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I decided to go for it. The firmware update only took a minute or two. Quick, easy, and smooth.
I'm transferring a DAT now (S/PDIF input, 16/48)... it's about an hour into it and no problems.
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Thanks for the upadate news - I hope to order my oade concert mod next week - hopefully the Kingston sdhc issues have been resolved - I'd love to be able to use the cards that I already own...
;)
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Hey guys,
I bought a Oade MOd 661 back in February and I love it but I have had a few issues. Obviously I have had the issues with the Kingston Card as I have seen others have but I have also had issues my recording level settings. At first I had to tweak the balance to get even record levels for both channel. Later I had ok balance but in the middle of a show all of a sudden one channel would become dramatically lower and I would again have to tweak the balance. Has anyone had any of these issues? I Contacted Oade early on and asked if it could be due to the Modification and he was adamant that he checks each deck before sending it to the customer and that it could be the mics I was using. At I have used AT 853's, AKG 414's and Oktava Mk12 with the deck. The latest issue with the record level going wacko later in the show I was using the 414's. I wonder if it is because they are drawing more current than the smaller Diaphragm mic's. Anyone have similar issues. My suspicion is that once the battery level starts to drop I am getting the inconsistent balance issues. I have had issues in the past and have managed to fix it by simply resetting the phantom power. Any Idea's, Has anyone had these issues with the stock units?
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Hey guys,
I bought a Oade MOd 661 back in February and I love it but I have had a few issues. Obviously I have had the issues with the Kingston Card as I have seen others have but I have also had issues my recording level settings. At first I had to tweak the balance to get even record levels for both channel. Later I had ok balance but in the middle of a show all of a sudden one channel would become dramatically lower and I would again have to tweak the balance. Has anyone had any of these issues? I Contacted Oade early on and asked if it could be due to the Modification and he was adamant that he checks each deck before sending it to the customer and that it could be the mics I was using. At I have used AT 853's, AKG 414's and Oktava Mk12 with the deck. The latest issue with the record level going wacko later in the show I was using the 414's. I wonder if it is because they are drawing more current than the smaller Diaphragm mic's. Anyone have similar issues. My suspicion is that once the battery level starts to drop I am getting the inconsistent balance issues. I have had issues in the past and have managed to fix it by simply resetting the phantom power. Any Idea's, Has anyone had these issues with the stock units?
How big a difference was the adjustment between the left versus right knobs to get a good balance when you had the level dropping issue?
You should try a couple of tests at home:
1. Try to replicate what happened with everything setup the same way, and just let it record off your stereo speakers for 2-3 hours and see what you get.
2. Replicate the test again, but this time use the AC power plug for the 661.
3. Try testing it XLR line in too, as that can let you know if it's likely a deck issue or something else. Doug upgrades the XLRs, with better input capacitors and op amps for both line in and mic in. Since signals pass through the same circuits, line or mic, you can determine if the deck is the problem, or the mics.
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I wonder if the same XLR cable was used for all the different mics tested? A loose wire and/or bad/inconsistent ground could cause prblems similar to what DATPAT describes. Try a few different XLR cables as well with the above recommended tests. Good luck, please keep us posted.
:)
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Has anyone tried their Kingston sdhc cards along with the firmware update?
:)
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Has anyone tried their Kingston sdhc cards along with the firmware update?
Can the update be done with the SD card in the 661? From the instructions, it appears that the card needs to be taken out first.
If so, I need to get a SDHC card reader. My old one doesn't work with the newer cards.
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Has anyone tried their Kingston sdhc cards along with the firmware update?
Can the update be done with the SD card in the 661? From the instructions, it appears that the card needs to be taken out first.
If so, I need to get a SDHC card reader. My old one doesn't work with the newer cards.
No, you don't have to get one to do this firmware update. I have the same problem, needing a SDHC card reader.
Just hook the 661 to your computer as you would to transfer off a file. When it recongizes the external storage device, just copy and paste the update file to the main directory of the card, not any mplang folders that are on it.
Then, use the safely remove hardware option and let the PC tell you it's ok to disconnect. Power the 661 off, then plug in the AC cord. Turn it back on. It will then ask you right on the 661 screen if you want to execute the update, and you select yes. It takes just a few min to do all this, very easy.
Good luck!!
PS: Anyone that has not done this upgrade, before you do, please hit the pause/record button and see if the pause indicator on the OLED screen flashes at the same time and same pace as the red ring light around the record button. After my update, I noticed that the pause indicator on the screen on my unit flashes at a different pace and timing than the red ring light, but I am not sure if it always did this, or just started happening after the update.
Thanks!
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anybody use the transcend class 6 cards with this that have been on deals lately? I have a few 8gb's floating around and am wondering if they will work when I get my unit
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Yeah, Aaron, I suggest leaving the room while it is updating firmware. Don't even look at the thing. ;)
Exactly! The "Observer Effect" and all... ;)
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I have used different cables and gotten the same effect. The balence is normally only sightly off.
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for anyone else waiting for more reviews/comments about the new firmware, I ran it at a show last night, 24/96, mic-in with phantom power, and everything went smoothly - no issues at all.
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for anyone else waiting for more reviews/comments about the new firmware, I ran it at a show last night, 24/96, mic-in with phantom power, and everything went smoothly - no issues at all.
Jason, Any chance you saw how your deck behaved with regards to this question I put out in an earlier post?
Anyone that has not done this upgrade, before you do, please hit the pause/record button and see if the pause indicator on the OLED screen flashes at the same time and same pace as the red ring light around the record button. After my update, I noticed that the pause indicator on the screen on my unit flashes at a different pace and timing than the red ring light, but I am not sure if it always did this, or just started happening after the update.
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for anyone else waiting for more reviews/comments about the new firmware, I ran it at a show last night, 24/96, mic-in with phantom power, and everything went smoothly - no issues at all.
Jason, Any chance you saw how your deck behaved with regards to this question I put out in an earlier post?
Anyone that has not done this upgrade, before you do, please hit the pause/record button and see if the pause indicator on the OLED screen flashes at the same time and same pace as the red ring light around the record button. After my update, I noticed that the pause indicator on the screen on my unit flashes at a different pace and timing than the red ring light, but I am not sure if it always did this, or just started happening after the update.
I can check it out tonight. I haven't noticed anything like that yet, but I basically never use the pause-record mode. (because with my 16gb card, I've got ~8 hours at 24/96, which is more than enough for the typical 2-3 hour shows I record. So I just hit record and let it roll instead of using record-pause. I might have 10-15 minutes of random crowd noise to delete afterwardsm but that isn't a big deal). I'll let you know what my deck does this evening.
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for anyone else waiting for more reviews/comments about the new firmware, I ran it at a show last night, 24/96, mic-in with phantom power, and everything went smoothly - no issues at all.
Jason, Any chance you saw how your deck behaved with regards to this question I put out in an earlier post?
Anyone that has not done this upgrade, before you do, please hit the pause/record button and see if the pause indicator on the OLED screen flashes at the same time and same pace as the red ring light around the record button. After my update, I noticed that the pause indicator on the screen on my unit flashes at a different pace and timing than the red ring light, but I am not sure if it always did this, or just started happening after the update.
I can check it out tonight. I haven't noticed anything like that yet, but I basically never use the pause-record mode. (because with my 16gb card, I've got ~8 hours at 24/96, which is more than enough for the typical 2-3 hour shows I record. So I just hit record and let it roll instead of using record-pause. I might have 10-15 minutes of random crowd noise to delete afterwardsm but that isn't a big deal). I'll let you know what my deck does this evening.
Jason, Thanks. I also have been just starting it up at the last couple shows, skipping the pause step. With the long battery life and large capacity SD cards, no reason not to. This pause flashing thing was something I noticed after I did the firmware update and tested it to make sure it still got levels and everything. That is when I noticed a difference between the pace of flashing on the screen, and the red ring around the record button. Just not sure if that is normal or not. Later.........
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when in record-pause mode, the red circle around the record button, and the indicator on the OLED screen do flash at slightly different rates, so it's not just your deck (and I would say it's normal operation). I have no idea whether or not it did this prior to the firmware update.
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when in record-pause mode, the red circle around the record button, and the indicator on the OLED screen do flash at slightly different rates, so it's not just your deck (and I would say it's normal operation). I have no idea whether or not it did this prior to the firmware update.
Thanks, man. That's good enough for me.
Enjoy that deck, I am really loving mine more each time I use it. And, I think the lights may be prettier than a 7XX :-X
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Ordered my "concert mod" 661 today. ;D Can't wait to give it the festival season workout!!
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Ordered my "concert mod" 661 today. ;D Can't wait to give it the festival season workout!!
How much was the shipping quote :P ;D
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Ordered my "concert mod" 661 today. ;D Can't wait to give it the festival season workout!!
How much was the shipping quote :P ;D
Shipping included - ;) Should be shipping out on Wednesday!! ;D
Have any of you tried these cards with the 661:
16GB SDHC Cards Toshiba for $30 at Sams
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,121649.0.html
How many of you have upgraded to the new firmware and have had no issues?
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so what about this, besides being smaller and newer and shinier, would entice me to sell my 671 and get this instead?
edit: i've read a bit of the thread, but can't seem to see the differences between the two except that this uses SD cards and the 671 uses CF.
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so what about this, besides being smaller and newer and shinier, would entice me to sell my 671 and get this instead?
edit: i've read a bit of the thread, but can't seem to see the differences between the two except that this uses SD cards and the 671 uses CF.
Well, in terms of form factor, it's less than 1/2 the size and weight, the display is better, and the internal battery setup is much better ergonomically. From a powering perspective, you only need half as many AAs to run it, and they fit directly into the deck, not inside a sled with 2 contacts known to have issues for users. With just four 2650 Duracells, running line in, I have run it for hours and still had a full charge showing on the display. Mic in, using the preamps, users have reported exeeding 5 hours with a single set of AAs. So, my 670 has been retired to the home system to use for transfers of my old DATs, since I got my modded 661 at the end of March.
Operationally, I think the biggest differences are both a plus and a minus. The minus is that there is no digital out. But, unless you are taking a digital in from a V3/Apogee/AD2k, the digital output on the 671 is not functional anyway, so it's not that big of a loss if you are using the A/D on the 671 you now have.
The big plus, the main factor that sold me, is that the 661 is the only flash recorder besides the SD702 that has a true professional XLR line input that has +4 db pro line level sensitivity. Your 671, for example, has a consumer level line in that is 14 db more sensitive than an XLR line in, and therefore cannot accept a hot input from an externa preamp or soundboard without clipping.
Also, with the HDP2, FR2LE, and the 671, modifications to improve the preamp only improve the mic input, the line input is still stock. With the PMD661, the modification is made to the XLR inputs, so both the line in path and the preamp path (mechanically switched) have upgraded inut capacitors and opamps, with just an additional set of upgraded chips for the mic pre when the switch is moved to mic in.
Hope this helps you decide.
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just bought a stock unit...should arrive tuesday or wednesday...my peluso's should sound sweet on this...thanks for all the battery, sd card, and firmware tests that were done....great resource
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I just did the firmware update. It was quick and easy. Many thanks for the explanation on page 8 by DATBRAD.
As for the the question about the blinking Pause light on the screen vs the red ring on the REC button. Yes, the blinking tempo changes somewhat. I dunno exactly how, but I noticed a difference before and afterwards. Afterwards, it doesn't blink 'in synch' with the ring's tempo, rather almost at random now.
Maybe we can suggest that future firmware updates revert to the more 'in synch' blinking tempo as to not affect those of us with ADHD. :P
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just bought a stock unit...should arrive tuesday or wednesday...my peluso's should sound sweet on this...thanks for all the battery, sd card, and firmware tests that were done....great resource
Cool! a stock unit. It seems like everybody here has a modified box. I'd love to hear how the stock version does.
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Operationally, I think the biggest differences are both a plus and a minus. The minus is that there is no digital out. But, unless you are taking a digital in from a V3/Apogee/AD2k, the digital output on the 671 is not functional anyway, so it's not that big of a loss if you are using the A/D on the 671 you now have.
mine is functional
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just bought a stock unit...should arrive tuesday or wednesday...my peluso's should sound sweet on this...thanks for all the battery, sd card, and firmware tests that were done....great resource
Cool! a stock unit. It seems like everybody here has a modified box. I'd love to hear how the stock version does.
i'll post some clips when i get the chance...may get this modded if and when busman starts tweaking this model
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Operationally, I think the biggest differences are both a plus and a minus. The minus is that there is no digital out. But, unless you are taking a digital in from a V3/Apogee/AD2k, the digital output on the 671 is not functional anyway, so it's not that big of a loss if you are using the A/D on the 671 you now have.
mine is functional
Really? That's interesting, because the 670 will not output digital when the unit is in analog mode, only when taking in a digital signal, or during playback. D&M told me the 671 was the same way, but I guess they were wrong?
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Protective Case From Marantz
Found this while surfing. Wonder when this will be available in the USA?
http://www.proaudio.uk.com/pdf/PRC661%20Pro%20case.pdf
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^ Looks nice. Portabrace released theirs as well. I emailed to ask if there were other pictures (possibly with the unit inside) but they didn't seem to have any. They really need to swap out the current photo, imo.
http://www.portabrace.com/productC-AR-PMD661
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I just learned something new. Unlike the PMD670 (and I assume the 671), the digital input will not simply lock on to the inbound clock signal automatically at whatever sample rate it's being fed. You must go into the menu for the digital input and change the presets to the bit depth and sample rate you know will be feeding the digital input. If you are taking a 48khz input, and have the preset selected to 96khz, you will get a digital in error message. As soon as you change the preset to 48khz, it will lock right on the signal.
This makes me wonder about resampling again, since the 670/671 seems to be able to read the input by itself and lock to any sample frequency automatically. Not a biggie, but worth knowing about if you are getting a digital in and seeing the error message and not understanding the problem. Before you start trouble shooting cables and whatnot, be sure to check to make sure what bit depth and sample rate is being sent to your recorder, and make sure the settings in the menu presets match.
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Marantz has a new firmware update on their website.
Version A1.16 - released July 8, 2009
If you download the zip file with the firmware update, there's also a .doc file with details on what has changed. it looks like not much:
PMD661 v.1.16 Firmware Details:
Resolved issues below:
1. By using pitch control, the unit locks up at audio files recorded at 24 bit 96 kHz.
2. EDL marks corrupt file date created properties.
I haven't yet updated, and I'm not in any rush, as I don't use either of the two features that had issues resolved by this firmware.
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I asked this in the Team 661 board and haven't had a reply, so I thought I would try here.
What Oade Mod would you recommend for Someone who runs Busman BSC1's, and records a variety of Music styles? Everything from, solo acoustic to REALLY LOUD ROCK. Thanks in advance for your help.
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I asked this in the Team 661 board and haven't had a reply, so I thought I would try here.
What Oade Mod would you recommend for Someone who runs Busman BSC1's, and records a variety of Music styles? Everything from, solo acoustic to REALLY LOUD ROCK. Thanks in advance for your help.
well, not the super-mod (as that's intended for recording very quiet sounds only). So that leaves you with a choice of either the warm mod or the concert mod. Either mod will be fine for recording a wide variety of music, because the PMD-661 has a lot of options in regards to input sensitivity. For example, I mostly record loud music, and I pretty keep the input sensitivity on -18dB. If I was going to record very quiet music, I could change that to -12dB, -6dB, or 0dB, depending on my guess of what the situation called for. So, because both the concert mod or the warm mod will be fine for a wide variety of music, it becomes an issue of what you prefer, and what would be a better match with the Busman mics. I'm not familiar enough with the Busman mics to know which would be a better match. Generally speaking, the concert mod is more transparent while the warm mod adds a bit of low end color to the sound. If the Busman mics are more on the lean/thin side of the sound spectrum, perhaps the warm mod would be a better fit. but if the Busman mics have their own color and you want more transparent gear after the mics, then the concert mod is the way to go.
hope this helps.
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yup. just what ^ said
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I asked this in the Team 661 board and haven't had a reply, so I thought I would try here.
What Oade Mod would you recommend for Someone who runs Busman BSC1's, and records a variety of Music styles? Everything from, solo acoustic to REALLY LOUD ROCK. Thanks in advance for your help.
well, not the super-mod (as that's intended for recording very quiet sounds only). So that leaves you with a choice of either the warm mod or the concert mod. Either mod will be fine for recording a wide variety of music, because the PMD-661 has a lot of options in regards to input sensitivity. For example, I mostly record loud music, and I pretty keep the input sensitivity on -18dB. If I was going to record very quiet music, I could change that to -12dB, -6dB, or 0dB, depending on my guess of what the situation called for. So, because both the concert mod or the warm mod will be fine for a wide variety of music, it becomes an issue of what you prefer, and what would be a better match with the Busman mics. I'm not familiar enough with the Busman mics to know which would be a better match. Generally speaking, the concert mod is more transparent while the warm mod adds a bit of low end color to the sound. If the Busman mics are more on the lean/thin side of the sound spectrum, perhaps the warm mod would be a better fit. but if the Busman mics have their own color and you want more transparent gear after the mics, then the concert mod is the way to go.
hope this helps.
Agree with everything above.
I mentioned this somewhere in this thread, but Doug gave me a great reference for the differences between the warm and concert mods. He said the concert mod would be comparable sounding to his M248 preamp, while the warm mod would favor the sound of his M148 preamp.
I know a couple of guys that have run the Busman mics using Busman modded recorders, both the warm and transparent versions, and I just talked to one of them and he told me that his feeling is that a warm mod would make the busmans sound too muddy.
I agree, so my advice is go with the concert mod. Also, the odds are that any future mic upgrades you might make would fit with the concert mod better than the warm. I got the warm mod 661 specifically to offset the tendency of the older style AKG 460s that I run to sound too bright, and needing a little filling out in the low end.
You will love this recorder, regardless.
Good luck !!
PS:I listed this one in the kickdown, but also thought to list it here for the Team. This is one of the better recordings I have pulled with my warm mod 661 this year, and thought someone here might want to grab it just to hear it. It's line in from my mono preamps, but you can at least judge the line in sound I am getting.
http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=526694
Hope you like it.
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Thank's for your input. I ordered the Concert MOD today.
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My 661 arrived yesterday. I was wondering which is better to use, the attenuator in the recorder, or the one on the Mic's?
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I'd start with just the setting on the deck. Keep in mind that if the gain knob on the 661 is at "4" or below, the analog inputs can overload, even if your digital levels aren't over -0dBfs. So if you set the deck at -12dB, and you need to lower the gain knob below 4, change the setting on the deck to -18dB. If the deck is already set to -18dB, and you still need to have the gain knob at 4 or below, then switch on the attenuator on the mics.
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Looks like I too am buying one of these decks, also the concert mod from Doug. I already own Busman BSC1's. I have very limited experience using mic cables. Does this sound like a good idea/purchase: A set of 15' cables with RA stubbie female xlr's coming out of the mic's at the 6pm position, and standard male xlr's, going into the 661(via Darktrain) ? Should I consider anything other than standard straight male xlr's, for the 661? That is how I would use them BSC1's > 661. Thanks
Harold
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Sounds like a plan. I have Right angle stubbies on mine (male), but only because my bag is small, and the stubbies allow me to zip up the top while everything is plugged in/rolling. Robb's cables are hard to beat for the price. If you ever plan on running split omnis, just let Robb know to leave enough slack in the cables to allow for the split. The pair I have doesn't have quite enough slack to allow for a 3' split.
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Sounds like a plan. I have Right angle stubbies on mine (male), but only because my bag is small, and the stubbies allow me to zip up the top while everything is plugged in/rolling. Robb's cables are hard to beat for the price. If you ever plan on running split omnis, just let Robb know to leave enough slack in the cables to allow for the split. The pair I have doesn't have quite enough slack to allow for a 3' split.
As a follow up, I can report that regular Neutrix RA male connectors don't seem to work well on the 661. The input jacks are too close together, so the RA connectors bind against each other, which is not a good thing. Go either straight normal XLR, or get custom stubbie RA ends if that is what you need.
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I'd start with just the setting on the deck. Keep in mind that if the gain knob on the 661 is at "4" or below, the analog inputs can overload, even if your digital levels aren't over -0dBfs. So if you set the deck at -12dB, and you need to lower the gain knob below 4, change the setting on the deck to -18dB. If the deck is already set to -18dB, and you still need to have the gain knob at 4 or below, then switch on the attenuator on the mics.
Thank you Jason. This may be the issue I ran into at Mule two weeks ago. I originally thought that it was just the omnis accentuating the low-end, but perhaps I was overloading when the bass drum was hit. My levels were peaking at around only -6dB, and the rec level knob was around 4. Then again, it could be a combination of the two factors, or something else entirely. Either way, thanks for the heads-up.
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I'd start with just the setting on the deck. Keep in mind that if the gain knob on the 661 is at "4" or below, the analog inputs can overload, even if your digital levels aren't over -0dBfs. So if you set the deck at -12dB, and you need to lower the gain knob below 4, change the setting on the deck to -18dB. If the deck is already set to -18dB, and you still need to have the gain knob at 4 or below, then switch on the attenuator on the mics.
Thank you Jason. This may be the issue I ran into at Mule two weeks ago. I originally thought that it was just the omnis accentuating the low-end, but perhaps I was overloading when the bass drum was hit. My levels were peaking at around only -6dB, and the rec level knob was around 4. Then again, it could be a combination of the two factors, or something else entirely. Either way, thanks for the heads-up.
take a look at the wave files in any editor. compare it to the screen shot here:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,112681.msg1589949.html#msg1589949 (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,112681.msg1589949.html#msg1589949)
if you see any portions that look clipped, but are well below 0dBfs, that's the clear sign that you brickwalled and overloaded the analog circuitry before the signal got the A/D.
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Thanks for your suggestion on using straight normal male xlr's going into the 661, DATBRAD.
Probably kind a dumb question, but anyone want to suggest a size /type of gear bag, for my small/limited gear: busman bsc1's/cables/ pmd 661/batteries/cards, anyone have one for sale?
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^Search in the yard sale for keyword "gear bag". Someone (I forget who) had several different ones for sale within the last month or so. I remember Gear Bag Extravaganza was the name of the thread.
For no more gear than you have, a small camera bag should work fine. That's what I use. They've got plenty of pockets/dividers, and everything is well padded. You can find one for $25 or so brand new on ebay (or elsewhere). The LowePro all weather series is nice because each bag includes a rainfly. These are slightly more expensive than a regular camera bag, but the first time someone spills a beer on your gear, or you're caught in a torrential downpour at an outdoor show, it will have been worth it.
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Where would the Oade concert mod PMD661 AD/ Pre, fit in this list?
V3
V2
UA5
AD-20
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Much better than the UA5 but not quite a V3, but damn close.
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Where would the Oade concert mod PMD661 AD/ Pre, fit in this list?
V3
V2
UA5
AD-20
It would not really fit at all into your list, since none of these are all-in-one recorders.
That being said, there are still some comparisons you can make to help you decide on getting a modded 661. According to Doug, and as I mentioned earlier in this thread, the concert mod shares the sound quality of his M248 preamp, and the warm mod shares the sound quality of his M148 preamp. If you collect recordings, you must certainly have tapes where each of these preamps are used and that can be your preamp reference.
Most of the flash recorder brands share the same 24 bit AD chipset within their model line, so that portion in the 661 is likely exactly the same as the one in the PMD671, which is a really good A/D, and there are a ton of recordings in circulation to listen to how that A/D sounds.
Technically, the V3 is the only 24 bit preamp A/D combo on your list, and still a great way to go, paired with any 24 bit recorder with a digital input, that can be used as a bit bucket.
Good Luck!!
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I have a new 661 concert mod deck and have a few SD cards with audio recorded on them. I have never before used recorders w/SD cards (or any other memory cards), and have never transferred audio from them to my computer (MacMini OSX). I may not even have a mac program to play them/tweak them yet...I guess I'll get sound studio, and something else... Once the 661 and mac are powered and connected via usb according to pages 35,36 in the manual, do I hit play on 661 to transfer the data to my mac? And does it just show up on my desk top, which I can then open and use later in a suitable program? Can someone walk me through the process, since I am not at all computer savvy... Thanks. I have used the line out on the 661 to listen to the recordings.
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When I first got mine, I tried to transfer via USB connection between PMD661 and the Mac, and I think I recall it not showing up properly. In any event, the easiest way to deal with getting files on and off cards is with a card reader. Make sure you get one that can handle the SDHC cards, older ones have a 4 GB limit on SD cards. These readers are available for $10-$15 dollars and typically read many kinds of memory cards. When connected with a card in them, they just show up as an external drive in the Finder.
The wav files, even high bitrate ones, are playable in the Finder quick view or iTunes, or othere popular players such as VLC or Cog, or Songbird.
I master my recordings with Bias Peak, but this is an expensive program. Audacity is free and open source and can do what you need, tracking, EQ, adjust gain, export regions to individual files, etc.
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Here is the checklist I use for mastering and seeding, raw recording to preparing and seeding the torrent. I find having a checklist allows me to do a good job without having to think so much, and I don't worry about missing some step. Also if my working on the show is interrupted it makes it easier to pick up where I left off. I'll attach as Word doc zipped and pdf. You can modify to suit your needs.
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I have a new 661 concert mod deck and have a few SD cards with audio recorded on them. I have never before used recorders w/SD cards (or any other memory cards), and have never transferred audio from them to my computer (MacMini OSX). I may not even have a mac program to play them/tweak them yet...I guess I'll get sound studio, and something else... Once the 661 and mac are powered and connected via usb according to pages 35,36 in the manual, do I hit play on 661 to transfer the data to my mac? And does it just show up on my desk top, which I can then open and use later in a suitable program? Can someone walk me through the process, since I am not at all computer savvy... Thanks. I have used the line out on the 661 to listen to the recordings.
I have a PMD 661 and an iMac too, I found that I had to pick up an inexpensive Sony card reader because a direct USB connection between the PMD661 to iMac was too slow and the card reader in my HP Photosmart printer did not read SDHC cards. By slow direct USB connection I mean the PMD661 showed up on the Mac desktop but it took between :20 sec to over 1 min to do so which was not very practical. Using the card reader is essentially instantaneous.
I'm new to this type of recording as well and will be recording a full day blues festival on the 13th but haven't decided on which mac software to go with yet. Currently leaning toward; Wave Editor but also considering Sound Studio 3, Amadeus Pro or even Audacity. It appears Audiofile Engineering's Wave Editor works natively with Broadcast Wave files and and has the most sonic transparency of the bunch. http://www.audiofile-engineering.com/waveeditor/techspecs.php
SRC Comparisons can be compared here --> http://src.infinitewave.ca/
Bias Peak Pro is too expensive for me. Perhaps others will chime in regarding preferred Mac software.
Check out Team PMD 661 board which seems to have been more active lately than this thread.
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Can anyone tell me if the carrying strap that comes with the 661 attaches to those metal loops near the input meter lights and if it is long enough to put around your neck?
Also, how does this compare in size to the 702/722 recorders? Dimensions are 6.5/3.7/1.4 for the 661 versus 8.2/4.9/1.8 for the 702/722 so it seems not much smaller by the numbers, but anyone with both have thoughts about how they compare size-wise?
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Can anyone tell me if the carrying strap that comes with the 661 attaches to those metal loops near the input meter lights and if it is long enough to put around your neck?
Also, how does this compare in size to the 702/722 recorders? Dimensions are 6.5/3.7/1.4 for the 661 versus 8.2/4.9/1.8 for the 702/722 so it seems not much smaller by the numbers, but anyone with both have thoughts about how they compare size-wise?
yes, the carrying strap attached to those metal looped, near the LED meters, and it is long enough to put over your shoulder and the deck hangs down around your waist. of course, it's also adjustable so that the deck could hang higher up if you prefer it.
the size of the deck relative to the SD 702/722... I don't have any pictures side by side, but I'm familiar enough with the decks. the PMD-661 is a good deal smaller than a SD deck. the orientation of the deck is different from the 702/722, so when, carrying the deck with the included strap, the deck is only 3.7" wide (vs the 8.2" for the 722). and it is also a thinner deck, 1.4 vs 1.8. though it is a little "taller", 6.5" vs 4.9". I know that's just the numbers which can be a little hard to picture, but I think that the PMD-661 is smaller than you're thinking.
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yes, the carrying strap attached to those metal looped, near the LED meters, and it is long enough to put over your shoulder and the deck hangs down around your waist. of course, it's also adjustable so that the deck could hang higher up if you prefer it.
the size of the deck relative to the SD 702/722... I don't have any pictures side by side, but I'm familiar enough with the decks. the PMD-661 is a good deal smaller than a SD deck. the orientation of the deck is different from the 702/722, so when, carrying the deck with the included strap, the deck is only 3.7" wide (vs the 8.2" for the 722). and it is also a thinner deck, 1.4 vs 1.8. though it is a little "taller", 6.5" vs 4.9". I know that's just the numbers which can be a little hard to picture, but I think that the PMD-661 is smaller than you're thinking.
Thanks for the detailed info! It sounds like it would be a good stealth all-in-one. I especially like the metal loops that you can use to hang the 661 from your neck, which also puts the gain pot in a convenient position and the meters also. You can't really see the screen this way but you wouldn't need at all, just hit record and then adjust the gain with the pot on top and check the meters on top too. I may get this eventually. 8)
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I'd start with just the setting on the deck. Keep in mind that if the gain knob on the 661 is at "4" or below, the analog inputs can overload, even if your digital levels aren't over -0dBfs. So if you set the deck at -12dB, and you need to lower the gain knob below 4, change the setting on the deck to -18dB. If the deck is already set to -18dB, and you still need to have the gain knob at 4 or below, then switch on the attenuator on the mics.
Curious about the 661 overloading the analog inputs. So if you switch the deck to -18dB, how easy is it for the deck to get overloaded (e.g. because the gain knob still had to be set below 4 even at -18dB)? I'm considering the 661 for stealthing but if this is an issue, even if only occasionally, then I probably will just stealth my 702 instead.
Also, I read the old 661 threads and team threads but still not clear if the phantom only works with mic-in or if you can get P48 with line-in as well. The pics appears to show the switch for phantom can only be turned on for mic-in and not line-in.
Last question, is whether or not the Oade mods (concert or warm) lower the noise floor at all or just the sonic qualities of the 661.
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I'd start with just the setting on the deck. Keep in mind that if the gain knob on the 661 is at "4" or below, the analog inputs can overload, even if your digital levels aren't over -0dBfs. So if you set the deck at -12dB, and you need to lower the gain knob below 4, change the setting on the deck to -18dB. If the deck is already set to -18dB, and you still need to have the gain knob at 4 or below, then switch on the attenuator on the mics.
I learned this the hard way the other night at The Black Crowes in Utica. There was a light drizzle and I didn't want to fine tune the levels and keep opening the gear bag, etc. I figured I would set the levels conservatively and raise them in the post. I had the gain knob right around "4" and my levels were around -12db on the LCD display. I figured I was ok. I have heavy distortion on the drum kicks right around the 140-220hz
range. the mid and highs are fine. not sure if I am going to take the time to clean it up, or just write it of as a learning experience. I had the -18db setting on at the time as well. so I should have opened it up more and set the gain to 5 or 6.
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I'd start with just the setting on the deck. Keep in mind that if the gain knob on the 661 is at "4" or below, the analog inputs can overload, even if your digital levels aren't over -0dBfs. So if you set the deck at -12dB, and you need to lower the gain knob below 4, change the setting on the deck to -18dB. If the deck is already set to -18dB, and you still need to have the gain knob at 4 or below, then switch on the attenuator on the mics.
Curious about the 661 overloading the analog inputs. So if you switch the deck to -18dB, how easy is it for the deck to get overloaded (e.g. because the gain knob still had to be set below 4 even at -18dB)? I'm considering the 661 for stealthing but if this is an issue, even if only occasionally, then I probably will just stealth my 702 instead.
Also, I read the old 661 threads and team threads but still not clear if the phantom only works with mic-in or if you can get P48 with line-in as well. The pics appears to show the switch for phantom can only be turned on for mic-in and not line-in.
Last question, is whether or not the Oade mods (concert or warm) lower the noise floor at all or just the sonic qualities of the 661.
I think the super lowers the noise floor, for nature recording enthusiasts.
the xlr inputs can be set to line in, mic in p48 off, and mic in p48 on. this pic shows the switch. the xlr line in does not have p48
edit: its a 3 way switch
(http://www.d-mpro.com/users/FolderData/%7BD7BE3B59-5BA6-4892-8EA7-AC454FE0B5C8%7D/PMD661_back_thumb.jpg)
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the xlr inputs can be set to line in, mic in p48 off, and mic in p48 on. this pic shows the switch. the xlr line in does not have p48
edit: its a 3 way switch
Thanks, that's what I gathered from the picture but thought it was strange that there was no phantom for line-in. Anyone know what the reason for this is, and the sonic consequences (e.g. noisier, etc.)?
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I'd start with just the setting on the deck. Keep in mind that if the gain knob on the 661 is at "4" or below, the analog inputs can overload, even if your digital levels aren't over -0dBfs. So if you set the deck at -12dB, and you need to lower the gain knob below 4, change the setting on the deck to -18dB. If the deck is already set to -18dB, and you still need to have the gain knob at 4 or below, then switch on the attenuator on the mics.
Curious about the 661 overloading the analog inputs. So if you switch the deck to -18dB, how easy is it for the deck to get overloaded (e.g. because the gain knob still had to be set below 4 even at -18dB)? I'm considering the 661 for stealthing but if this is an issue, even if only occasionally, then I probably will just stealth my 702 instead.
Also, I read the old 661 threads and team threads but still not clear if the phantom only works with mic-in or if you can get P48 with line-in as well. The pics appears to show the switch for phantom can only be turned on for mic-in and not line-in.
Last question, is whether or not the Oade mods (concert or warm) lower the noise floor at all or just the sonic qualities of the 661.
Phantom power can only be used with "mic in". The switch itself is a three position switch with the following choices: "Line In, Mic In, or Mic In with Phantom Power on".
in regards to the overloading issue, it's only happened to me once, I think it is a specific issue with very sensitive mics. My beyerdynamic mics have a sensitivity of 30 mV/Pa. That's a lot higher than most mics tapers "typically" use. (for example, the sensitivity of the Schoeps ccm4 is only 13 mV/Pa. What that means is that at the same sound pressure level, the signal coming from the beyerdynamics will already be more than twice as loud relative to the signal coming out of the Schoeps. And the one time I that I did overload the input of the PMD-661, it was a very loud show, and even then, I just barely overloaded the inputs... (this post has all the details: http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,112681.msg1589945.html#msg1589945 (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,112681.msg1589945.html#msg1589945)). All that said, I have since always used the -15dB switch on my mics, and I've never had an issue since. My guess is that with mics that are already much lower sensitivity (relative to the beyerdynamics), you won't ever run into an issue of overloading the PMD-661 input.
and in regards to whether or not the oade mods lower the noise floor, or just make it sound "better", I'm not 100% sure on that one.
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the xlr inputs can be set to line in, mic in p48 off, and mic in p48 on. this pic shows the switch. the xlr line in does not have p48
edit: its a 3 way switch
Thanks, that's what I gathered from the picture but thought it was strange that there was no phantom for line-in. Anyone know what the reason for this is, and the sonic consequences (e.g. noisier, etc.)?
You will not find too many recorders, if any, that have phantom power on the line inputs. Just imagine the potential destruction if you fed 48V to the line out on a SBD (crispy :o).
Now, with so many new recorders out, some SBD guys are very wary of patches these days, because someone might accidently feed 48V phantom and fry part of the mixing desk.
Line in on the 661 is set at +4db pro line level, so the old tradition of setting a recorder to line in to allow more headroom (what I expect you are contemplating) would not work well with the 661, even if you could run it like that. When taking a normal pro level line in, the 661 gain knob sits between 12 and 2, which shows how much headroom you have and how much gain you need to use.
Good luck with your quest.......
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Phantom power can only be used with "mic in". The switch itself is a three position switch with the following choices: "Line In, Mic In, or Mic In with Phantom Power on".
in regards to the overloading issue, it's only happened to me once, I think it is a specific issue with very sensitive mics. My beyerdynamic mics have a sensitivity of 30 mV/Pa. That's a lot higher than most mics tapers "typically" use. (for example, the sensitivity of the Schoeps ccm4 is only 13 mV/Pa. What that means is that at the same sound pressure level, the signal coming from the beyerdynamics will already be more than twice as loud relative to the signal coming out of the
Thanks again for the information. I would assume that the overloading issue is at least partly due to using the mic-in instead of line-in for running directly into the 661? And that the mic-in is noisier than the line-in? Sounds like an interesting all-in-one, and probably won't know how it really performs until I try it myself. 8)
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Line in on the 661 is set at +4db pro line level, so the old tradition of setting a recorder to line in to allow more headroom (what I expect you are contemplating) would not work well with the 661, even if you could run it like that. When taking a normal pro level line in, the 661 gain knob sits between 12 and 2, which shows how much headroom you have and how much gain you need to use.
Good luck with your quest.......
I guess I need to read up, but can you explain what the deal is with the '+4dB pro line level?' I searched and googled it but didn't find anything relevant. Are you saying going line in with a +4dB pro line-in wouldn't be a great idea because the levels would be too low compared to a consumer line level? Thanks for the info!
Edit: found this old DAT Heads newsletter from an old post here (thanks greenone!) that seems rather informative:
DAT-Heads Digest #711, Volume #2 Tue, 16 Apr 96 02:12:04 EDT
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From: PBM%mimi@magic.itg.ti.com
subject: DAT tapers: BEWARE of brickwalling while taping live!!
date: Mon, 15 Apr 96 10:31:28 CDT
To: message to internet M2I
From: Mark Powers PBM
Subj: DAT tapers: BEWARE of brickwalling while taping live!!
Hi all -
I've been seeing more and more tapes with this problem lately, and am
convinced that it is probably one of the main causes of people's "auds suck"
gripes. The problem is known as "brickwalling", and can induce distortion
to a recording that can range from mild to horrendous. Apologies to
those of you that know about it, but there are obviously growing numbers
of tapers that don't, and it's important.
Brickwalling occurs when the output of your microphones is too hot for the
preamp you are using (either the deck's input or an outboard mic-line amp),
which results in the preamp being overloaded. Most of the better condenser
mics out there (AKG's B&K's, etc) are capable of output voltages higher than
the mic inputs on, say, a D7 are equipped to handle. This will turn what
could have been a terrific recording into a mudbath in a big hurry.
Fortunately, brickwalling is both easy to spot *and* easy to prevent: the
name "brickwalling" stems from the fact that when this phenomenon occurs,
the levels on the DAT deck will typically go right up to but never beyond
a certain point, as if they're running into a "brick wall". Note that IT CAN
AND WILL OCCUR WITH THE LEVELS SET *ANYWHERE*, this has NOTHING to do with
going over zero, which is *digital* distortion; brickwalling is *analog*
distortion, the same thing you get when you turn a cheap AM radio up too
loud. You can get it with the levels set at -12, and it has nothing to do
with where the record level knob is set!!
So, for example, if you're recording a show and see that the levels are
always hovering right at or around -6dB and never go beyond it, no matter
how intensly the band is playing, it's a pretty safe bet that the mic
preamp of your deck isn't happy with what it's seeing. In the worst
case, the recording will be unlistenable; in cases where the
overloading is bad but not severe, the recording will sound really good
during the quiet parts but will tend to get muddy-sounding during the
louder stuff. So, for example, Fee will sound great, but the finale of
Bowie will sound muddy, garbled, trashy, etc. As I said, I have been
seeing this on a *lot* of the recordings I've been getting lately, so
I figured a word to the wise oughtta make a lot of people happy. :-)
So how do you stop it? Simple. Most of the good condensor mics out there
also have attenuation pads, which will drop the output signal level of the
of the mics down to where your mic preamp will be much happier (as will all
of the people that listen to your tapes, including you! :-) So if you see
this happening, all you've gotta do is switch the attenuator pads on your
mics to the "-10dB" position (make sure you don't hit the rolloff switch
by mistake!). Note: this will require you to set the record level knob
up significantly higher to get good levels, but your recording will sound
*tons* better. If you do this *and* maks sure that the levels don't go
above zero, you'll be rewarded with much-better sounding tapes!
FYI, if you want to see what to look out for, play some of the
less-than-perfect sounding tapes in your collection while watching the
levels. Assuming that good gear was used to record it, there's a pretty
good chance you'll see the brickwalling effect.
Living up to my name again,
PickyBastardMan
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DAT-Heads Digest #715, Volume #2 Wed, 17 Apr 96 13:12:06 EDT
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From: "Michael J. Shaw" <shaw95@wharton.upenn.edu>
Subject: SB brickwalling
Date: Wed, 17 Apr 1996 01:59:36 -0400 (EDT)
That little note from a digest or two ago about mic-input brick walling
can also occur when one is patched from a soundboard.
All of the same "syptoms" pretty much apply. The signal in this case is
overloading the line input as opposed to the mic-input. It will be fine
in soft parts, but come loud parts it get ugly.
The problem mainly occurs when a deck with consumer level line inputs of
-10dBV is hooked up to a pro console that had +4dBu line level outs.
This has happened to me once before. I had to learn the hard way. There
was a bit of talk a while back about using attenuators and such, and that
can help with this. I don't think that brickwalling was mentioned, though.
If you are taking RCA outs of a board, those are a pretty safe bet, but
be wary of 1/4" outs and esp. XLR outs. 99% of XLR outs are going to
have a nominal level of +4. If you're coming out of a board with
multi-matrices, you might be able to get the sound person to back off on
your send, but always ask when in doubt.
If you've got a deck with XLR in's, you should be fine as they will
likely have a nominal input level of +4 (or swithable).
Learn from my mistake and don't let any more recording get ruined.
happy taping,
Michael
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From: Gary Davis <gdavis@loop.com>
Subject: RE: "Brickwalling"
Reply-to: gdavis@loop.com
Date: Tue, 16 Apr 1996 23:14:09 +0000
A much simpler way to avoid mike-pre-amp distortion is to avoid the
mike pre-amp. If your mikes have their own power supply, and the
music is loud, you can probably go right into the "Line" input on
most decks and avoid this problem...
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Line in on the 661 is set at +4db pro line level, so the old tradition of setting a recorder to line in to allow more headroom (what I expect you are contemplating) would not work well with the 661, even if you could run it like that. When taking a normal pro level line in, the 661 gain knob sits between 12 and 2, which shows how much headroom you have and how much gain you need to use.
Good luck with your quest.......
I guess I need to read up, but can you explain what the deal is with the '+4dB pro line level?' I searched and googled it but didn't find anything relevant. Are you saying going line in with a +4dB pro line-in wouldn't be a great idea because the levels would be too low compared to a consumer line level? Thanks for the info!
Edit: found this old DAT Heads newsletter from an old post here (thanks greenone!) that seems rather informative:
In that old datheads post you pasted, I saw where +4db line level overloading -10db line level inputs is mentioned.
"The problem mainly occurs when a deck with consumer level line inputs of
-10dBV is hooked up to a pro console that had +4dBu line level outs."
Consumer line level, such as the line level between your CD player and home receiver, is set at -10db, and all consumer grade components are made to feed and accept line level at -10db, so when a recorder with a unbalanced consumer level line input is fed the +4db pro line level, which is 14db hotter, it can often overload the active electronics on the recorders line input.
In fact, other than the Sound Devices 702/722, I am not aware of any other 2 channel flash/HDD wave recorder that has a +4db pro line in with balanced XLR input connectors, other than the 661. I have used the 661 for SBD patches taking the balanced XLR outs, and had just tons of headroom that I would not have had with unbalanced consumer level line inputs.
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In that old datheads post you pasted, I saw where +4db line level overloading -10db line level inputs is mentioned.
"The problem mainly occurs when a deck with consumer level line inputs of
-10dBV is hooked up to a pro console that had +4dBu line level outs."
Consumer line level, such as the line level between your CD player and home receiver, is set at -10db, and all consumer grade components are made to feed and accept line level at -10db, so when a recorder with a unbalanced consumer level line input is fed the +4db pro line level, which is 14db hotter, it can often overload the active electronics on the recorders line input.
In fact, other than the Sound Devices 702/722, I am not aware of any other 2 channel flash/HDD wave recorder that has a +4db pro line in with balanced XLR input connectors, other than the 661. I have used the 661 for SBD patches taking the balanced XLR outs, and had just tons of headroom that I would not have had with unbalanced consumer level line inputs.
Thanks for the clarification/info! It seems that having a pro +4dB line level is useful for SBD patches to the 661, essentially, since those levels can overload a prosumer/consumer -10dB level XLR line in. However, since the 661 doesn't have phantom for the line level, this doesn't apply to high SPL sound sources like rock concerts I would assume, at least when running mics directly into the 661. If the 661 could supply phantom for the line in as well as mic in (like the 7xx), this problem with overloading (albeit, with certain mics in rare situations it appears) might not be an issue at all. Despite that, the 661 seems like a mighty fine recorder. 8)
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In that old datheads post you pasted, I saw where +4db line level overloading -10db line level inputs is mentioned.
"The problem mainly occurs when a deck with consumer level line inputs of
-10dBV is hooked up to a pro console that had +4dBu line level outs."
Consumer line level, such as the line level between your CD player and home receiver, is set at -10db, and all consumer grade components are made to feed and accept line level at -10db, so when a recorder with a unbalanced consumer level line input is fed the +4db pro line level, which is 14db hotter, it can often overload the active electronics on the recorders line input.
In fact, other than the Sound Devices 702/722, I am not aware of any other 2 channel flash/HDD wave recorder that has a +4db pro line in with balanced XLR input connectors, other than the 661. I have used the 661 for SBD patches taking the balanced XLR outs, and had just tons of headroom that I would not have had with unbalanced consumer level line inputs.
Thanks for the clarification/info! It seems that having a pro +4dB line level is useful for SBD patches to the 661, essentially, since those levels can overload a prosumer/consumer -10dB level XLR line in. However, since the 661 doesn't have phantom for the line level, this doesn't apply to high SPL sound sources like rock concerts I would assume, at least when running mics directly into the 661. If the 661 could supply phantom for the line in as well as mic in (like the 7xx), this problem with overloading (albeit, with certain mics in rare situations it appears) might not be an issue at all. Despite that, the 661 seems like a mighty fine recorder. 8)
The Oade modded 661, concert or warm, can take plenty of input gain XLR mic in, with three optional attenuation positions for the input, -6, -12, and -18 db. If you were to run a pair of commonly used mics that are known to output hot, like AKG 480s, and ran them mic in with the setting at -18, you would have more than enough headroom to work with, even for bands that are very loud.
I personally run outboard pre still with my 661, for several reasons, but mostly because the battery life on the 661 is vastly increased when you run XLR line in, versus XLR mic in with 48V phantom. I cannot hear any significant difference in the sound between going mic in directly, versus line in from the mic pre, which I suspect is due to the fact that the Oade mod upgrades the analog path for the XLRs, line or mic in. This means, unlike most modded recorders, the sonic improvements of the mod are in play with line in, as opposed to only acting on the mic input side.
Again, good luck with whatever you end up doing.
Edit to correct spelling
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The Oade modded 661, concert or warm, can take plenty of input gain XLR mic in, with three optional attenuation positions for the input, -6, -12, and -18 db. If you were to run a pair of commonly used mics that are known to output hot, like AKG 480s, and ran them mic in with the setting at -18, you would have more than enough headroom to work with, even for bands that are very loud.
Thanks again for all the info, sounds like a recorder I may end up getting eventually.
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You will not find too many recorders, if any, that have phantom power on the line inputs. Just imagine the potential destruction if you fed 48V to the line out on a SBD (crispy :o).
Now, with so many new recorders out, some SBD guys are very wary of patches these days, because someone might accidently feed 48V phantom and fry part of the mixing desk.
Would it be possible to add a diode to your xlr sbd patch cable to prevent this from happening?
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You will not find too many recorders, if any, that have phantom power on the line inputs. Just imagine the potential destruction if you fed 48V to the line out on a SBD (crispy :o).
Now, with so many new recorders out, some SBD guys are very wary of patches these days, because someone might accidently feed 48V phantom and fry part of the mixing desk.
Would it be possible to add a diode to your xlr sbd patch cable to prevent this from happening?
I am not sure about that, but what I do know is if a FOH guy is wary that you might even possibly be able to accidently feed phantom back to the mixing desk, no claims of any preventative modifications will reassure most of them that they can take a risk and will not have to explain to the band later why they have to get their SBD repaired, or have to pay a venue to have their's repaired.
There is no application I can think of that would call for a line level input to have the ability to feed phantom. Someone seeking to be able to run their mics line in need to have a preamp in front, or at least a phantom power box, then they can go line in with the mics easily. But, with the 661, if you fed only mic level to the XLR pro line input, I doubt you could get full levels even with the gain cranked all the way up from such weak source going into the +4db XLR line in on the 661. Trust the modded 661 preamps with the -18 attenuation setting, or get a preamp and go line in, that is my advice.
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Doug Oade recently updated his site, with the following on the 661 upgrades. Good explanations of differences for those seeking more detail.
"Performance Enhancements Available :
The Marantz PMD 661 Concert MOD upgrade rebuilds the XLR inputs using high speed, low noise and very low distortion op amps that dramatically improve fine detail and clarity. The result is a very detailed, open 3D soundstage. Input PCB capacitors are also upgraded. Components are selected by ear to optimize detail and imaging for recording all types of music where transparencey is needed.
The Marantz PMD 661 Warm MOD upgrade rebuilds the XLR inputs using high speed, low noise and very low distortion FET chips that dramatically improve fine detail and clarity. The result is a very detailed, open 3D soundstage with a warmer tone than the Concert MOD plus a more expansive soundstage. Input PCB capacitors are also upgraded. Components are selected by ear to optimize detail and imaging for recording all types of music when a warm tone is needed.
The Marantz PMD 661 Super MOD upgrade rebuilds the XLR inputs using very high speed, very low noise and super low distortion op amps that dramatically improve low level detail and clarity. Input PCB capacitors are also upgraded. Super low THD+N op amps allow for a very wide SFDR even with signal levels down 50dB. This preserves the signal quality of the highest grade microphones when recording soft signals, like voice, un amplified music, nature sounds and FX.
The preamp chips used for the Super MOD have lower THD than the stock ones (about 30db less). The Super MOD chips do a bit less hiss than the ones for the Concert and Warm MOD chips. This is preferred for very soft signals as there is less signal to mask the noise. The Concert and Warm MODs also use chips with much lower THD than the stock chips but the gain structure altered to accommodate the much higher signal levels found in a Concert setting. When high output mics are used in a high SPL concert both the stock and Super MOD machines can overload. All upgrades dramatically enhance clarity and low level detail in recorded signals by significantly lowering the distortion in the preamp. To sum up, the Concert and Warm MODs optimize the preamp circuit for clarity and detail in higher SPL settings while the Super MOD optimizes it for more common signal levels like nature sounds, voice and Acoustic music. Also, the Warm MODs preamp chips use FETs so they sound very much like a tube preamp with the warm sound that offers a fat rounded bass tone, a sweet silky high end and the expansive soundstage found in high end tube circuits. Unlike the Concert MOD which is transparent or uncolored, the Warm MOD does add euphonic coloration to the recorded signal."
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Thanks for posting the more detailed description of the mods. Anyone know if it is confirmed that the Oade modded 661s lower the noise floor?
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Thanks for posting the more detailed description of the mods. Anyone know if it is confirmed that the Oade modded 661s lower the noise floor?
I don't know if anyone has done so using measurement equipment. I can say that the stock unit has published specs showing a SNR of 65 db mic in, and 85db line in. A 16 bit stock SBM-1 has better specs than this.
Doug told me the chips he used for the super mod were rated SNR of 125 db, and the ones for the concert/warm were around 115 db.
The only show that I have recorded using the mic in on my wmod661 was an acoustic trio running DPA4061s. During the performance, the audience is pin drop quiet, and the amount of audible hiss is minimal, my own breathing masks it.
Now this is not scientific, but if the SNR had been 65 db, it would have sounded like a chorus of snakes. So, based on my experience, I would say the mods definately lower the noise floor audibly, but exactly how much I cannot say.
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Thanks DATBRAD, appreciate the info. It would be great if would add the Oade modded 661s to their tests, as well as testing the line ins. (http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm[/url)
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Thanks DATBRAD, appreciate the info. It would be great if would add the Oade modded 661s to their tests, as well as testing the line ins.
(http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm[/url)
It would be nice to have such tests, but I don't expect to see that anytime soon.
Personally, I was familiar enough with Doug's work, and Marantz gear, to not need a ton of outside convincing to make the purchase decision. I just went for it. The differences between the stock 660 and his modded 660 are stark, and the 660 was basically not usable for concert PA taping until after his mod. I have also heard the clear quality differences between a stock 671 and a modded 671, as well as a stock P2 versus modded P2.
I can't imagine that the 661 mods are any different as far as impact.
I expect you are seeking a smaller and lighter alternative to your 702 for stealth, and I can say that the show I did stealth was very easy with the 661, and all I had to do was tape down the level knob, since the keylock protects the rest of the controls. If you are looking to stick with your 702 for open taping, and adding this recorder to your gear locker for low the pro stuff, this is a great option for you.
Running Schoeps, I would go with the concert or super mods, depending on if you are recording loud PA stuff, or quiet acoustic. YMMV
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If you are looking to stick with your 702 for open taping, and adding this recorder to your gear locker for low the pro stuff, this is a great option for you.
Running Schoeps, I would go with the concert or super mods, depending on if you are recording loud PA stuff, or quiet acoustic. YMMV
Exactly right, I love the 702 but find it a bit bulky to stealth properly, and like the 661 a lot from what I've seen and heard and would love to have one to stealth with as well as to get board feeds with (with the pro level line-in). It's significantly cheaper to go stock and get it on ebay with cashback, so I'll have to figure out if I want to go Oade or not. Maybe I'll give Doug a call to see what he thinks. Thanks for the input!
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I think the warm is perfect for schoeps. doug said it would be closest to the m118 i run in front of my p2. i have run 3-4 sets mk4/mk2s into the 661 warm with phantom, all at telluride bluegrass, nothing loud yet. pm me if you want to check that out. i never upload, i haven't figured it out and don't have the time while i am in school.
richard
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i have run 3-4 sets mk4/mk2s into the 661 warm with phantom, all at telluride bluegrass, nothing loud yet. pm me if you want to check that out.
PM sent. 8)
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So I did a battery test at home with my unmodded 661:
Schoeps CCM4 > 661 (backlight on continuously at lowest setting, LED on, 24bit/44.1) using 2700mAh Sanyos. Lasted about 4 hours before it died. The 661 was set to "NiMH" but the battery meter was showing only half power left at the 2 hour mark, but it kept on recording for another two hours. A bit disconcerting.
Problem is, the 661 does not seem to have written the long file prior to shutting down when the batteries died. Is this generally an issue with the 661? Do I have to worry about turning it off before the battery power runs out or else risk having the file not properly closed/saved?
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Here's a pic I took to compare the relative sizes of the 661, 702, and R-09HR:
(http://images53.fotki.com/v426/photos/4/45607/4783512/IMG_3857-vi.jpg)
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So I did a battery test at home with my unmodded 661:
Schoeps CCM4 > 661 (backlight on continuously at lowest setting, LED on, 24bit/44.1) using 2700mAh Sanyos. Lasted about 4 hours before it died. The 661 was set to "NiMH" but the battery meter was showing only half power left at the 2 hour mark, but it kept on recording for another two hours. A bit disconcerting.
Why is that "a bit disconcerting"? The batteries lasted about 4 hours, and at 2 hours, the battery meter showed half power. That seems like the battery meter is very accurate, yes?
Problem is, the 661 does not seem to have written the long file prior to shutting down when the batteries died. Is this generally an issue with the 661? Do I have to worry about turning it off before the battery power runs out or else risk having the file not properly closed/saved?
In all the tests that I have done (and my battery tests, with a set of 4 NiMH AA's, also yield about 4 hours of runtime with phantom power on), the last file was properly closed every time. I've done many tests, and I've never had the experience you describe (i.e. last file not properly closed/saved).
I also always have the autosplit feature set to start a new file either every 30 minutes (if I'm running 24/96), or every hour (if I'm running at 24/48 or 24/44.1). I don't think the autosplit settings would have an impact on the behavior of the deck when it senses that the batteries are low, but it might be worth looking into.
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Why is that "a bit disconcerting"? The batteries lasted about 4 hours, and at 2 hours, the battery meter showed half power. That seems like the battery meter is very accurate, yes?
True, that does make sense. :P What I meant to write was actually that after 2 hours there was only one bar left but then it did end up lasting another two hours or so.
In all the tests that I have done (and my battery tests, with a set of 4 NiMH AA's, also yield about 4 hours of runtime with phantom power on), the last file was properly closed every time. I've done many tests, and I've never had the experience you describe (i.e. last file not properly closed/saved).
Well I did another battery test this morning and this time I came home to find that the file properly closed and saved upon the battery becoming empty. Yay. ;D
Total time (if anyone wants to add it to the battery run times list) was 4 hours 45 minutes recording 24bit/44.1khz, using four 2700mAh Sanyos. This is with CCM4 > 661 with phantom on, LEDs on, and backlight at '1' but on auto off for most of the test. Not too bad, I was really hoping for at least 4 hours so anything more is just a bonus.
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Just taped my first show with the 661, and transferring the file now and noticed that it is over 2gb in size. I don't remember any way to choose the file size before splitting in any of the menus, besides automatically splitting by variable interval, so not sure if I can even open up this file in Soundforge to edit.
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Just taped my first show with the 661, and transferring the file now and noticed that it is over 2gb in size. I don't remember any way to choose the file size before splitting in any of the menus, besides automatically splitting by variable interval, so not sure if I can even open up this file in Soundforge to edit.
I thought that the deck would autosplit at 2gb regardless of what time interval you chose for autosplit. However, I've never run a file for 2gb, because I prefer working with smaller files. so when I run 24/96, I set autosplit to 30 min, and when I run 24/48, I set autosplit to 1 hour, so eiether way, my files are about 1 gig in size. Anyway, if you're file size really is over two gig, CD Wave should open it just fine, it can handle files up to 4gb.
that said, if you're basing this on windows explorer, and it's telling you that it's 2048mb (or something like that), keep in mind that that is 2gb, because of the whole 1024mb=1gb, not 1000mb. So Soundforge might open the file just fine.
Why is that "a bit disconcerting"? The batteries lasted about 4 hours, and at 2 hours, the battery meter showed half power. That seems like the battery meter is very accurate, yes?
True, that does make sense. :P What I meant to write was actually that after 2 hours there was only one bar left but then it did end up lasting another two hours or so.
ahh, yes, I see what you mean. I guess I never noticed that before, because on my battery tests, I would just let it run until it's dead, and then figure out how long it ran based on the files that were on the card. but during my tests, I never really looked down at the battery meter to see what it was doing at what interval during the tests. With just one bar showing, I can see how you might be nervous at a show. To ease your mind, don't look at the battery meter at a show ;) Just keep mental track of how long it's been, and know that you've got ~4.5 hours, or even a little more.
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To ease your mind, don't look at the battery meter at a show ;)
That's good advice. :P
So the file size was 2.6gb for about 2.5 hours recorded, and since Soundforge couldn't open it, I opened it in Cool Edit Pro and divided it into two smaller files. Odd thing about CE though, was that I couldn't just cut and paste part of the big file into a new file because it would only give me the option of 8bit, 16bit or 32bit, but no 24bit which is how it was recorded. So I ended deleting a chunk (the opener hehe) and then just hit 'save' and it saved it as a 24bit file.
Incidentally, the same batteries with the same mics and recording settings gave me 2.5 hours with a full battery bar left. ;D I didn't complete the battery test but in the next week or so I'll do a couple to see just how long it will run for.
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To ease your mind, don't look at the battery meter at a show ;)
That's good advice. :P
So the file size was 2.6gb for about 2.5 hours recorded, and since Soundforge couldn't open it, I opened it in Cool Edit Pro and divided it into two smaller files.
I just looked at the manual again. On page 26 it says:
New audio file starts automatically when the recorded file size reaches 4GB.
So it's an autosplit at 4gb, not 2gb, which is how you ended up with a 2.6gb file. And from your description, it seems like Cool Edit Pro is kind of clunky for splitting files larger than 2gb. Again, I would recommend using CD Wave to split up files larger than 2gb, because CD Wave can handle up to 4gb.
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Again, I would recommend using CD Wave to split up files larger than 2gb, because CD Wave can handle up to 4gb.
That's a great idea, especially since I use CD Wave for tracking files anyway, thanks!
edit: here's the Cranberries show I taped last night with CCM4 > 661 (stock). Sounds pretty good to me, let me know what you guys think (send space mp3s link coming after work).
http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=276061 (http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=276061)
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Again, I would recommend using CD Wave to split up files larger than 2gb, because CD Wave can handle up to 4gb.
That's a great idea, especially since I use CD Wave for tracking files anyway, thanks!
edit: here's the Cranberries show I taped last night with CCM4 > 661 (stock). Sounds pretty good to me, let me know what you guys think (send space mp3s link coming after work).
http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=276061 (http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=276061)
Any chance you could seed this also on Traders Den?
I don't have a Dime account, and I have zero interest in getting one.
Thanks!!!
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Any chance you could seed this also on Traders Den?
I don't have a Dime account, and I have zero interest in getting one.
Thanks!!!
Sorry but I'd rather not due to bandwidth issues, but here's a 192kbps mp3 version:
http://www.sendspace.com/file/9iqhfz (http://www.sendspace.com/file/9iqhfz)
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http://www.archive.org/details/SKB2009-11-05.AKG-C214
here is a Steve Kimock show I recorded a week and a half ago with the 661
used my new mics (AKG C214's) into some darktrain cables into the Concert mod 661.
Edit: nice pull Su6oxone, cranberries sounds nice =D
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http://www.archive.org/details/SKB2009-11-05.AKG-C214
here is a Steve Kimock show I recorded a week and a half ago with the 661
used my new mics (AKG C214's) into some darktrain cables into the Concert mod 661.
Edit: nice pull Su6oxone, cranberries sounds nice =D
Thanks GDfan, I'm really pleased so far with the performance of my stock 661. Here's my latest recording with CCM4 > 661 at the Grace Potter show last night in Baltimore on LMA:
http://www.archive.org/details/gpn2009-11-16.ccm4.flac16 (http://www.archive.org/details/gpn2009-11-16.ccm4.flac16)
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Hi everyone. It's time to bump the PMD661 thread to the top with a quick question.
I just got a stock model a few days ago and I was wondering if anyone knows how much quicker the battery drain is when you leave the LEDs on vs choosing the selection to turn them off? The LEDs seem to be handy to leave on during a show when the 661 is sitting vertically in the bag, but not if they drain the batteries alot quicker.
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Hi everyone. It's time to bump the PMD661 thread to the top with a quick question.
I just got a stock model a few days ago and I was wondering if anyone knows how much quicker the battery drain is when you leave the LEDs on vs choosing the selection to turn them off? The LEDs seem to be handy to leave on during a show when the 661 is sitting vertically in the bag, but not if they drain the batteries alot quicker.
Steve, I leave the LEDs lit, but I also dial the brightness of the OLED display down to it's most dim setting (still plenty bright in the dark).
Running 2650 Duracells, I am getting way over 5 hours running the unit line in. I would think for your purposes running the 661 digital in, you should not have to worry about the drain from the LEDs.
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Where would the Oade concert mod PMD661 AD/ Pre, fit in this list?
V3
V2
UA5
AD-20
It would not really fit at all into your list, since none of these are all-in-one recorders.
That being said, there are still some comparisons you can make to help you decide on getting a modded 661. According to Doug, and as I mentioned earlier in this thread, the concert mod shares the sound quality of his M248 preamp, and the warm mod shares the sound quality of his M148 preamp. If you collect recordings, you must certainly have tapes where each of these preamps are used and that can be your preamp reference.
Most of the flash recorder brands share the same 24 bit AD chipset within their model line, so that portion in the 661 is likely exactly the same as the one in the PMD671, which is a really good A/D, and there are a ton of recordings in circulation to listen to how that A/D sounds.
Technically, the V3 is the only 24 bit preamp A/D combo on your list, and still a great way to go, paired with any 24 bit recorder with a digital input, that can be used as a bit bucket.
Good Luck!!
I have an Oade T+mod UA-5 and a stock FR2-le, but I've been looking to go smaller. Is an OCM 661 as quiet as a stock FR2-le?
Is either the stock or OCM 661 better sounding than my UA-5? In other words, would I be taking a step backwards sonically feeding a digi signal from my T+UA-5 > 661? Also, I don't think I have read anywhere that digi resampling had been tested on the 661. Thanks for any info.
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I have an Oade T+mod UA-5 and a stock FR2-le, but I've been looking to go smaller. Is an OCM 661 as quiet as a stock FR2-le?
I'll put it this way. I owned a V3 before purchasing an OCM661, and kept it for a while to see how quiet and transparent the 661 was. As much as I loved the V3 (and still do), it was no problem letting it go.
The ocm661 is awesome as an all in one. Period.
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I have an Oade T+mod UA-5 and a stock FR2-le, but I've been looking to go smaller. Is an OCM 661 as quiet as a stock FR2-le?
I'll put it this way. I owned a V3 before purchasing an OCM661, and kept it for a while to see how quiet and transparent the 661 was. As much as I loved the V3 (and still do), it was no problem letting it go.
The ocm661 is awesome as an all in one. Period.
So I'm sold that the OCM 661 could replace my UA-5 and FR2-le as front-end/standalone. Could it replace my iriver for DAT transfers? Any definitive answer on possible resampling through the digi in?
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I have an Oade T+mod UA-5 and a stock FR2-le, but I've been looking to go smaller. Is an OCM 661 as quiet as a stock FR2-le?
I'll put it this way. I owned a V3 before purchasing an OCM661, and kept it for a while to see how quiet and transparent the 661 was. As much as I loved the V3 (and still do), it was no problem letting it go.
The ocm661 is awesome as an all in one. Period.
So I'm sold that the OCM 661 could replace my UA-5 and FR2-le as front-end/standalone. Could it replace my iriver for DAT transfers? Any definitive answer on possible resampling through the digi in?
I've done some basic testing, and the digital input doesn't resample (as with the other marantz decks, the PMD-670 and the 671). I've also done many many DAT transfers with the 661 by now, with no issues.
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I noticed in the user manual that there is a hi-pass and a low-pass function, but no mention anywhere in the manual what frequencies are involved. Anyone know?
Finally, has anybody done a comp between a stock and modded unit? Price difference is not huge, but I'm still curious.
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I tried searching but couldn't find an answer to this problem. I tried using the digital in for the first time to record audio from my Motorola DVR's digital coax out into my 661, but got super high levels (just static type sounds) that went all the way to clipping and stayed there. I assumed that the 661 needs to have a matching bit rate and sampling frequency to the DVR but couldn't get a 'normal' signal with 16 or 24 bit with all the different frequencies tried.
So, I guess my question is how does one use the digi in on the 661? I did switch via presets to the digital input setting so that's not the issue.
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I tried using the digital in for the first time to record audio from my Motorola DVR's digital coax out into my 661, but got super high levels (just static type sounds) that went all the way to clipping and stayed there.
Copy protection/inhibit flag from the source?
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Copy protection/inhibit flag from the source?
Oh, is that possible? I've never tried it and had no idea that could be done. Lame, but I guess you can always go analog in. Thanks for the info/idea!
Anyone know if the 661 has to be matched (bitrate/sampling frequency) to the source when going digi-in?
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I tried using the digital in for the first time to record audio from my Motorola DVR's digital coax out into my 661, but got super high levels (just static type sounds) that went all the way to clipping and stayed there.
I think it could be copy protection but I also think that the output coming from your DVR is probably a dolby surround signal. Do you have options on the output of the DVR digital signals?
Glenn
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I think it could be copy protection but I also think that the output coming from your DVR is probably a dolby surround signal. Do you have options on the output of the DVR digital signals?
Glenn
Thanks for the input, I hadn't considered the compatibility of the signal in terms of 5.1 or 2 channels. Not sure about configuring the output, probably but I've never tried. Think I'll just stick to the RCA outs next time I tape from my DVR. :P
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the sample rate on the PMD-661 has to set to match the ouput of whatever is upstream. If the sample rate on the 661 doesn't match the upstream gear, it won't lock on the digi signal. 16 bit / 24 bit doesn't matter as much. if it's set to 16 bit and the upstream gear is sending 24, the signal will be truncated by the 661, but it'll still lock. Likewise, if the deck is set to 24 bit and the upstream gear is sending 16 bit, you'll just be wasting disc space.
anyway, my guess is that the digital signal from your DVR wasn't stereo LPCM, and that's why it sounds like static.
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Makes sense, thanks for the input!
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Just got this from Marantz in response to an inquiry about using external DC power.
"We do not support using anything other than the DA620PMD as your external DC source. Also you might experience a much different performance since the power signal from the batteries will have to travel through an internal circuitry."
I thought several of you were using external power without issues, correct? FYI, the Radio Shack adaptaplug tip "B" fits the 661.
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Had a chance to reluctantly test the internal mics on my WMOD 661 this weekend after being shut down by the owner of the Iron Horse in Northampton, MA. So I went into stealth mode and ran with the mic attenuator at -18dB which allowed me to hit -12dB with the rec. level knob between 5 & 6 (which is where it ends up with my DPAs) and I got a well-balanced, distortion-free show. It was an amplified rock show, and I must say I'm quite impressed and wouldn't hesitate to use it again in a pinch.
Can anyone with more technical knowledge than me explain if (and how) Doug's mod improves the path/quality of the internal mics as well, or just the XLRs?
-james
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I'm pretty sure it does not mess with the internal mics at all, so what you got was what a stock unit would do.
Very cool!
makes me wonder, looking at the screens covering the mics, what is in there, or more importantly, what you could put in there...
I've been a set of DPA4061s for 8 years now, and it would be the worlds best all in one if those were grafted into the insides. But it is possible that what's inside is a much better choice.
jb
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Just got this from Marantz in response to an inquiry about using external DC power.
"We do not support using anything other than the DA620PMD as your external DC source. Also you might experience a much different performance since the power signal from the batteries will have to travel through an internal circuitry."
I thought several of you were using external power without issues, correct? FYI, the Radio Shack adaptaplug tip "B" fits the 661.
I used to use an external battery pack (the Tekkeon MP3450 is what I used to use). It worked great, and powered the deck for a long time (15+ hours with phantom power on). the only reason why I don't use it any more is because it was just way overkill. with ~5 hours from the internal AA's, I just don't need to carry an extra external battery. All that said, you shouldn't have any issues with an external battery, as long as it outputs 5V. I think Marantz says what they do just to cover their ass, in case someone sends a 9V or 12V power feed into the deck and fries it.
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Wasn't sure where to post this info, so I'll put it here. I wanted to know the relative recording settings on three different pieces of gear using the same source material played back on my stereo (haven't had an open taping opportunity yet).
I was comparing the 661, the FR2-le, and an Oade T+mod UA-5 > 661. Here are the settings and gear.
Playback: hhb 830 Burnit CD burner > Primare A20 > GMA Europa / ACI Force sub.
Studio Projects LSD2, cards @ 120º > 661: -12 pad engaged, gain knob @ 6; peak at -2.9db
Studio Projects LSD2, cards @ 120º > FR2-le: mic input almost maxed (4:00), main gain knob set to almost 3:00; peak at -0.9db
Studio Projects LSD2, cards @ 120º > T+mod UA-5: gain almost maxed (4:30) > 661; peak at -3.5db
The resulting files' peak levels were close, but not exact. Trying to be considerate of my neighbors, I only ran one test per rig. If I were to bring all this gear to one concert, I could set up one rig and then be in the ball park when setting levels with the other gear.
It also seems that the Marantz has the most available gain range for unamplified music. Not sure if the -18db pad will be enough for a really loud show (though the LSD2 also has a -10db pad). It's also uncommon to be able to set the mic input so high on the FR-2le in normal concert settings. The 12:00 setting is more common, or even below 9:00 when using mics a little more sensitive than the LSD2. The UA-5 has the least amount of gain.
I haven't done any critical listening of the files yet, provided I can hear any noticeable difference in the recordings at all.
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Would I be correct in saying that the non-rechargeable, "Energizer Ultimate Lithium" batteries would not be gauged accurately by either of the 661's battery meter options:
1. alkaline
2. NiMH
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Would I be correct in saying that the non-rechargeable, "Energizer Ultimate Lithium" batteries would not be gauged accurately by either of the 661's battery meter options:
1. alkaline
2. NiMH
Haven't tried them yet in the 661, but found the Energizer Ultimate Lithiums worked steadily along for a very long time with my wireless mouse reading 100%-99% but suddenly one day they were at 15% and needed replacement.
Similar results are likely with the recorder since Marantz didn't include a setting for Lithium batteries, maybe this is something they could add in a software update.
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Would I be correct in saying that the non-rechargeable, "Energizer Ultimate Lithium" batteries would not be gauged accurately by either of the 661's battery meter options:
1. alkaline
2. NiMH
Haven't tried them yet in the 661, but found the Energizer Ultimate Lithiums worked steadily along for a very long time with my wireless mouse reading 100%-99% but suddenly one day they were at 15% and needed replacement.
Similar results are likely with the recorder since Marantz didn't include a setting for Lithium batteries, maybe this is something they could add in a software update.
^^
Yes, I had a similar result for a recent Umphrey's show - I went from 100% to dead with no warning - luckily I had spare batteries with me and I was running a second rig too. I lost a few minutes for that pull, but no biggie as I will patch from my other source.
I kept thinking to myself "damn those batteries are lasting a long time". ;) I was distracted but I should have known better. The batteries lasted about 6 hours running the 661 as a bit bucket @ 24/96.
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Can anyone provide a working link for the latest firmware upgrade? The D&M link doesn't work for me. Thanks!!
Marantz has a new firmware update on their website.
Version A1.16 - released July 8, 2009
If you download the zip file with the firmware update, there's also a .doc file with details on what has changed. it looks like not much:
PMD661 v.1.16 Firmware Details:
Resolved issues below:
1. By using pitch control, the unit locks up at audio files recorded at 24 bit 96 kHz.
2. EDL marks corrupt file date created properties.
I haven't yet updated, and I'm not in any rush, as I don't use either of the two features that had issues resolved by this firmware.
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Tried the D&M link after spotting your post, it worked for me and I was able to download.
http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4405&Tab=FAQ
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Tried the D&M link after spotting your post, it worked for me and I was able to download.
http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4405&Tab=FAQ
Thanks!! - Windows Explorer will NOT connect to this link for me - I'll try another browser.
Mozilla Firefox will NOT connect to this link for me either. WTF?
::)
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Tried the D&M link after spotting your post, it worked for me and I was able to download.
http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4405&Tab=FAQ
Thanks!! - Windows Explorer will NOT connect to this link for me - I'll try another browser.
Mozilla Firefox will NOT connect to this link for me either. WTF?
::)
I cannot download this update - Are there any other links to the newest firmware? My security software does not appear to be the problem and neither are my firewall settings. ???
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Tried the D&M link after spotting your post, it worked for me and I was able to download.
http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4405&Tab=FAQ
Thanks!! - Windows Explorer will NOT connect to this link for me - I'll try another browser.
Mozilla Firefox will NOT connect to this link for me either. WTF?
::)
I cannot download this update - Are there any other links to the newest firmware? My security software does not appear to be the problem and neither are my firewall settings. ???
D&M must be having website problems the link isn't working for me now either. Tried Safari where it worked before and Mozilla Firefox but neither work right now for me either. I had downloaded the file earlier today it's 377KB zipped and could send it to you, I'm not aware of any other download sources. Send me a PM with your e-mail.
Hey maybe they'll come back with a new update that includes a setting for Lithium Batteries ; )
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^^
The D&M link is working now and I have the update - thanks for the offer to help!!
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I have been off the taping scene the last couple of years due to several stays @ the hospital. Feeling better and ready to go back to my favorite hobby. I still love the sound from my MBHO 603a> MP-2 but want to upgrade from my sbm-1 mod >jb3. Would you suggest the concert mod 661 or warm mod 661 to go with my MBHOs>MP-2? I am planning to pick it up for teh Wanee festival or latest for WSP @ Orange Beach.
Thanks for the input :D
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I have been off the taping scene the last couple of years due to several stays @ the hospital. Feeling better and ready to go back to my favorite hobby. I still love the sound from my MBHO 603a> MP-2 but want to upgrade from my sbm-1 mod >jb3. Would you suggest the concert mod 661 or warm mod 661 to go with my MBHOs>MP-2? I am planning to pick it up for teh Wanee festival or latest for WSP @ Orange Beach.
Thanks for the input :D
I have found the MBHO sound to trend towards a flat sound rather than bright, so I would say Concert Mod would probably work best. Warm is better sounding to me with mics that tend to be on the bright side. Now, running a preamp may want you to swing to the warm for that, and also because the line in on the WMOD sounds real nice on SBD patches, IMO.
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Thanks. I was leaning towards the concert mod 661 but was looking for another opinion. Somewhere I read mics w/good bass (Schoeps, MBHOs, Neumans) that the warm mod can muddy up the bass where bright mics (AKG, Earthworks) would benefit from the warm mod w/some additional bass. It looks like my deposit will not be untill 4/15 so I'll be testing out the concert mod 661 @ Orange Beach.
Also I read somewhere that Doug removes the rca out but can keep it if you want to. Why would he remove them unless absolutly needed?
Thanks again.
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The RCA outs work fine on my concert 661.
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Thanks. I was leaning towards the concert mod 661 but was looking for another opinion. Somewhere I read mics w/good bass (Schoeps, MBHOs, Neumans) that the warm mod can muddy up the bass where bright mics (AKG, Earthworks) would benefit from the warm mod w/some additional bass. It looks like my deposit will not be untill 4/15 so I'll be testing out the concert mod 661 @ Orange Beach.
Also I read somewhere that Doug removes the rca out but can keep it if you want to. Why would he remove them unless absolutly needed?
Thanks again.
I think you are on the right track with your assessment of some different brands of mics that work best with each mod. The FET chips in the warm mod do indeed thicken the bass in the upper registers just below the midrange while at the same time sweetening the high end, which is what makes it sound "warm". The concert mod is transparent, with the opamp chips used being of the same type as the stock unit, bipolar transistors, but with improved noise and distortion performance.
BTW, there is nothing anywhere I can find in Doug's mod description that mentions an option for disabling the RCA outs on the 661, and the RCAs on mine also work just fine.
Hope this helps........
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Recently posted to Dimeadozen: Allen Toussaint at The Great American Music Hall and David Lindley at the new Freight & Salvage. Both sound very good.
Source: Schoeps MSTC-64 (ORTF) > Marantz PMD-661 (Oade Concert Mod) at 24bit/48 kHz
Transfer: Apple Mac Mini 2.53 GHz Core 2 Duo > Bias Peak v6.0.3 (compression, limiting) > xAct v1.3 > FLAC, tagged including replay gain in Foobar2000 v0.9.6.5
Allen Toussaint - Great American Music Hall - San Francisco, CA - March 3, 2010
16 bit for burning to audio CD: http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=297306
24 bit high quality version: http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=297307
David Lindley - Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse - Berkeley, CA - April 1, 2010
16 bit for burning to audio CD: http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=298256
24 bit high quality version: http://www.dimeadozen.org/torrents-details.php?id=298259
Did you know that Ricardo Montalban was Dave's uncle?
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Wondering what the thoughts are on stock vs. Oade PMD661! I haven't read the thread to see if it has been addressed, but I am going to buy a 661 and wanted to know if I should spend the coin on getting it modded. Thanks in advanced
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Wondering what the thoughts are on stock vs. Oade PMD661! I haven't read the thread to see if it has been addressed, but I am going to buy a 661 and wanted to know if I should spend the coin on getting it modded. Thanks in advanced
Check out the specs on the stock unit, found in the data sheet on D&M's website. Then, go to Oade's site and read the descriptions of the modifications and decide for yourself. I have not heard any direct comps between stock and any of the mods. Suggest you check some of the sources of shows posted on LMA over the last year or so and see what you think. Good luck, it's a great recorder either way. My only complaint is the gain knob is too small for my fingers when trying to adjust R/L balance with good control, but that is the only thing I don't like.
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Thanks, I have listened to LMA sources! I wanted to know if any TS members are running a stock unit that can speak to its performance. Seems like everyone on TS has a Oade 661
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Thanks, I have listened to LMA sources! I wanted to know if any TS members are running a stock unit that can speak to its performance. Seems like everyone on TS has a Oade 661
"su6oxone" uses a stock PMD-661 (with a pair of Schoeps ccm's). he has posted several recordings made with the stock deck. Do a search and you shouldn't have too much trouble finding some of hsi recordings...
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Thanks Jason I appreciate your help!
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I do have three shows on LMA (GPN, Brett Dennen, TLG) with CCM4 > stock 661 and several other shows on Dime (Cranberries, Rodrigo y Gabriela) with the same setup. One thing to keep in mind is that the 660 required modding to make it suitable/usable for loud concert taping, but the 661 does not. So if you go for the mods by Oade, you should do it because you want the sonic difference of the mods and don't mind paying $100-150 more for it (I bought my new 661 for ~$500 on ebay back when they had bing cashback). Some may argue that the noise floor is lowered by the mod, but no one has objectively measured that so make of that what you will.
What I can tell you from my experience is that the noise floor on the stock 661 is very low. I've taped shows with very conservatively set levels (peaks between -20dB and -12db) and after normalizing to 0dB the noise floor is still very low. Unscientifically, I think the 661 has a noise floor comparable to the 7xx series (which is very low), because when recording in 24bit I have a ton of 'room' to raise levels without introducing noticeable hiss. But listening to tapes out there with modded and stock 661s, although not scientific or definitive, is still the best way to get a feel for how you like the sonics of each.
Either way, I think you'll enjoy the 661, good luck!
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Thanks, I appreciate your advice! I think I might go with a stock unit since I really don't get to tape much except in the summer when I am not working.
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I'm really pleased with my stock PMD-661's performance having recorded both loud PA concerts and soft Classical Orchestra sources with it.
The stock units noise floor is just fine for my ears.
There do seem to be more users in this forum with modded units. Some things worth considering about a modded unit; the mod will void the manufacturers warranty and Oade has posted a notice on his website that he doesn't recommend performing software upgrades to units that he has modded. He does however offer his own service on the units he has modded.
I had considered a modded unit before purchasing as well and I don't have any second thoughts about going with the stock unit.
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Yet, for those of us who have had our modded 661s over a year without any issue, the mfg warranty consideration is now moot. ;)
Marantz published specs for the stock 661 show a SNR of 65db mic in, and 85db line in, so that means an effective dynamic range less than 16 bit, which is 96db of dynamic range, not even close what 24 bits should deliver. Nature recordists seem to definately favor the Supermod Oade does to reduce preamp noise that would be audible in the background of a recording of chirping crickets, so it must be a good mod for that purpose and within that group of users.
Since it's rare for concert recording to have dynamic range exceeding 60db, I doubt anyone could "hear" a noise difference between stock and mod, concert or warm. I went for the warm mod for the sonic change swapping bipolar transistors with FETs at the XLR inputs to sound more like the old DAT recorders I used in the '90s, plain and simple. No matter what, the PMD661 is a nice 2 channel unit, stock or modded.
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Thanks. I was leaning towards the concert mod 661 but was looking for another opinion. Somewhere I read mics w/good bass (Schoeps, MBHOs, Neumans) that the warm mod can muddy up the bass where bright mics (AKG, Earthworks) would benefit from the warm mod w/some additional bass. It looks like my deposit will not be untill 4/15 so I'll be testing out the concert mod 661 @ Orange Beach.
V
I think you are on the right track with your assessment of some different brands of mics that work best with each mod. The FET chips in the warm mod do indeed thicken the bass in the upper registers just below the midrange while at the same time sweetening the high end, which is what makes it sound "warm". The concert mod is transparent, with the opamp chips used being of the same type as the stock unit, bipolar transistors, but with improved noise and distortion performance.
BTW, there is nothing anywhere I can find in Doug's mod description that mentions an option for disabling the RCA outs on the 661, and the RCAs on mine also work just fine.
Hope this helps........
I was wondering that since you are running a similiar set up (SD mp-1s) into line in on the PMD 661 what you usually set your recording levels for? (I'll be running my SD mp-2) to the line in PMD 661.
I was also wondering if you or anyone else have run any stealth set up direct from your mics to the PMD 661?
Would you suggest -12 db or -18 db attinuator levels and what recording levels that you would suggest?
Thanks for all the help.
Murf/MBHOTAPER
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hey all,
if this has been covered and it probably has, i apologize in advance. i ran a soundboard last month and left the deck for about 4 hours, i cam back to find a 3.7 gig file i cannot open. does anyone know where the setting is to do 2 gig splits on my 661? i just looked and it is not obvious to me. thanks
richard
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it's actually not a split setting for file size, but rather for time. So you can set it to start a new file every 30 minutes, or every 1 hour, or whatever. and FYI, CD Wave should be able to open that 3.7 GB file into smaller, more usable chunks.
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hey pholks - just pulled the trigger on a 661 and I am excited to take 'er for a test drive...
was hoping someone could answer a few questions for me in regards to the set-up:
1. Pre-record - should I set this to "ON" or is it necessary;
2. Low Cut - anyone using this feature outdoors ;
3. internal battery - do you pholks leave AA's in the unit when powering externally just in case?
thanks in advance
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I was also wondering if you or anyone else have run any stealth set up direct from your mics to the PMD 661?
Would you suggest -12 db or -18 db attinuator levels and what recording levels that you would suggest?
Thanks for all the help.
Murf/MBHOTAPER
I have the Oade Supermod, so keep that in mind, but I always run my mics directly in and always use -18. I've stealthed only once and I believe the level knobs were set around 5. Here is the show (http://timtapesstuff.wordpress.com/2009/11/09/dinosaur-jr-live-at-the-wonder-ballroom-november-7-2009/). It is probably worth noting that in this case I was way up front so the vocals are pretty much missing.
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All my recordings recently have been Schoeps directly into an Oade Concert Mod PMD661. -18dB setting. For a loud show usually set around 5. Most have been announced above on this thread.
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I'm wondering what the general consensus is on the attentuation for a outdoor festy - wouldn't -18 db be a little too much? What about the use of attentuation w/ the HPF filter?
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The attenuator is nothing more than a gain setting. In my experiences, it's best to keep it as low as possible (-18db) provided you're still able to get levels in the -6 to -3db range. Only during super quiet performances (regardless of indoor/outdoor) do I even consider the thought of increasing the preset gain. Your microphones, of course, will have some influence over this as well depending upon their sensitivity.
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I appreciate the reply Audball, and all my phellow 661ers...your help has eased the paranoia. It's funny how every new piece of gear you get, you go through those stages of uncertainty.
Anyway, I have been puttering aroung with the unit all week in hope of learning its ins and outs, and I am quite impressed with its features and its overall sound.
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Joining the team with my 661 on the way.
I know I saw somewhere some pixs of the 661 and other recorders for a size comparison. Can anyone send me the link?
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Joining the team with my 661 on the way.
I know I saw somewhere some pixs of the 661 and other recorders for a size comparison. Can anyone send me the link?
Welcome Ted, did you order a stock or modded unit?
Here are a couple of size visualization links that were posted earlier, you could also enter dimensions for a size comparison to an unlisted device.
http://www.sizeasy.com/page/size_comparison/20269-Fostex-FR2LE-vs-Sound-Devices-702-vs-Marantz-PMD660-vs-Sony-PMD-D1-vs-Marantz-PMD661
http://www.sizeasy.com/page/size_comparison/20215-PMD661-vs-Tascam-DR-1-vs-Olympus-LS-10-vs-R-09HR-vs-PMD620
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I am still learning (although if I had a better memory from what I have done in the past, that would certainly help too...) about the in's and out's of using decks with SD cards: When using a brand new SD card, is one of the first things you do setting up the deck to record to format the card in the 661(under the "Utility" function, go down to #7 card format, and press enter to format the card)?
Also under the Utility function, I have had the #5 load settings at "no" and #6 save settings at "no". Is that what some folks here also do?
Although I will be switching to a class4 card my next time out, I have been using standard class2 cards - when I was just trying to figure out what music I have on what cards, one card is saying "unformat" and "err card3": Does that indicate a bad card? It will not allow me to format the card in the 661.
Harold
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Harold,
Yes, I would recommend formatting whatever card you want to use in the 661 (Utility -> #7). Not just the first time you use a card, but before every show that I go out to record.
In regards to the "load settings" and "save settings", I never use either of those. Those commands are only there if you have a recording setup that isn't saved to one of your presets. what you can do is "save" all of your recording settings to the SD card, and then at a later time, "load" the settings from the same SD card to get back exactly what you need. But if you format that SD card, you'd lose the settings saved to it anyway (because formatting a card deletes everything from the card in the process). Also, I find that the three pre-sets cover just about every situation I need to record in, and it's easy enough to modify the settings if I need to. So no need to save the settings onto a SD card.
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I just wanted to share a few things which I learned this past weekend using my stock 661. I was running SP-C4 omnis at Mountain Jam and couldn't be happier with the results. It was my 1st field experience with the unit so there were some issues with the operation (mostly user brain-farts), but overall this unit did all I needed it to do. The main points that I feel necessary to share are the fact that this unit HAS to have the attenuator setting on at -18db or else there will be overloading at 24 or 16 bit. I decided to run the levels at @ 5 o'clock during GPN and the Avett's and unfortunately I have some ugly overloading of the kick drum, even though I never hit 0 on the meters. I learned early on that it is much better to run the unit with the meters barely hitting -6 on the meters and fix it in post. The other thing is that the level controls are stiff and when turning them you really have to turn them slowly as the changes will be very apparent with the slightest movement.
The features which came in most handy were the key lock which worked well when the unit was in my gear bag while still allowing me to adjust the levels. The ability to use different presets on the same SD card was also useful as I was running out of memory, so it was easy to switch to 16bit and increase my recording time.
Anyway, this stock unit has my full endorsement and I think it sounds pretty good. There were many different bands with different ranges and the PMD661 seemed to like 'em all.
Tonight is Hamid Drake indoors which should serve as another learning experience...
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Harold,
Yes, I would recommend formatting whatever card you want to use in the 661 (Utility -> #7). Not just the first time you use a card, but before every show that I go out to record.
In regards to the "load settings" and "save settings", I never use either of those. Those commands are only there if you have a recording setup that isn't saved to one of your presets. what you can do is "save" all of your recording settings to the SD card, and then at a later time, "load" the settings from the same SD card to get back exactly what you need. But if you format that SD card, you'd lose the settings saved to it anyway (because formatting a card deletes everything from the card in the process). Also, I find that the three pre-sets cover just about every situation I need to record in, and it's easy enough to modify the settings if I need to. So no need to save the settings onto a SD card.
So if I am using a large sd card for 2-3 shows/days (16gb), I would not want to reformat each day because I would lose all prior data/files/show(s). Thus I would need to download on my computer before reformating for another show? Would not reformating for a 2nd show cause a problem? Or would it be better off using smaller sd cards for each individual show? Just trying to figure the best alternatives and least costly ways to save on sd cards.
Thanks,
MBHOTAPER
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Harold,
Yes, I would recommend formatting whatever card you want to use in the 661 (Utility -> #7). Not just the first time you use a card, but before every show that I go out to record.
In regards to the "load settings" and "save settings", I never use either of those. Those commands are only there if you have a recording setup that isn't saved to one of your presets. what you can do is "save" all of your recording settings to the SD card, and then at a later time, "load" the settings from the same SD card to get back exactly what you need. But if you format that SD card, you'd lose the settings saved to it anyway (because formatting a card deletes everything from the card in the process). Also, I find that the three pre-sets cover just about every situation I need to record in, and it's easy enough to modify the settings if I need to. So no need to save the settings onto a SD card.
So if I am using a large sd card for 2-3 shows/days (16gb), I would not want to reformat each day because I would lose all prior data/files/show(s). Thus I would need to download on my computer before reformating for another show? Would not reformating for a 2nd show cause a problem? Or would it be better off using smaller sd cards for each individual show? Just trying to figure the best alternatives and least costly ways to save on sd cards.
Thanks,
MBHOTAPER
It's fine to use a large card to record many shows over several days. What I meant was, I would not recommend deleting files with your computer on the card. If you just leave the card in and record additional sets or shows, you should have no problem. But when you do copy the files to your computer, don't just delete the files. Use that opportunity to format the card to clear it.
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Harold,
Yes, I would recommend formatting whatever card you want to use in the 661 (Utility -> #7). Not just the first time you use a card, but before every show that I go out to record.
In regards to the "load settings" and "save settings", I never use either of those. Those commands are only there if you have a recording setup that isn't saved to one of your presets. what you can do is "save" all of your recording settings to the SD card, and then at a later time, "load" the settings from the same SD card to get back exactly what you need. But if you format that SD card, you'd lose the settings saved to it anyway (because formatting a card deletes everything from the card in the process). Also, I find that the three pre-sets cover just about every situation I need to record in, and it's easy enough to modify the settings if I need to. So no need to save the settings onto a SD card.
So if I am using a large sd card for 2-3 shows/days (16gb), I would not want to reformat each day because I would lose all prior data/files/show(s). Thus I would need to download on my computer before reformating for another show? Would not reformating for a 2nd show cause a problem? Or would it be better off using smaller sd cards for each individual show? Just trying to figure the best alternatives and least costly ways to save on sd cards.
Thanks,
MBHOTAPER
It's fine to use a large card to record many shows over several days. What I meant was, I would not recommend deleting files with your computer on the card. If you just leave the card in and record additional sets or shows, you should have no problem. But when you do copy the files to your computer, don't just delete the files. Use that opportunity to format the card to clear it.
Thanks. What sd cards would you recommend and where would you suggest to buy them for the best price and reliability for shipping?
Thanks again,
MBHOTAPER
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in my opinion, there's no need to pay extra for the SanDisk Extreme III series of cards. One of the cards I use is an 8gb SanDisk Ultra II card, and no issues with 24/96 over extended periods of time. I have no doubt that the Extreme III is a great card and will work with no problems, but you'll pay more for it relative to the Ultra II series. (FWIW, I also use a 16gb PNY class 4 card - also have no issues with 24/96 over extended periods of time.)
[/quote]
Are you referring to the san disk ultra or the san disk ultra II memory stick?
Also are you still not having problems running the PNY class 4 16gb card? If not which specific pny sdhc card are you using?
Thanks,
MBHOTAPER
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I just responded to your PM, but for everyone's benefit:
I currently use (and have ever only used) a SanDisk Ultra II 8gb card, and a PNY class 4 16gb card. I use both at 24/96, and I've never had any problems with either.
This is the exact PNY card that I use (and would recommend) -
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820178196
based on a quick look at the SanDisk website, it looks like they've renamed the "Ultra II" series to just "Ultra", and likewise, they have renamed the "Extreme III" series to just "Extreme". So, I think the newer "Ultra" cards are in fact the same cards as the older "Ultra II" cards. though it is a bit confusing and I'm not 100% sure.
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Harold,
Yes, I would recommend formatting whatever card you want to use in the 661 (Utility -> #7). Not just the first time you use a card, but before every show that I go out to record.
In regards to the "load settings" and "save settings", I never use either of those. Those commands are only there if you have a recording setup that isn't saved to one of your presets. what you can do is "save" all of your recording settings to the SD card, and then at a later time, "load" the settings from the same SD card to get back exactly what you need. But if you format that SD card, you'd lose the settings saved to it anyway (because formatting a card deletes everything from the card in the process). Also, I find that the three pre-sets cover just about every situation I need to record in, and it's easy enough to modify the settings if I need to. So no need to save the settings onto a SD card.
So if I am using a large sd card for 2-3 shows/days (16gb), I would not want to reformat each day because I would lose all prior data/files/show(s). Thus I would need to download on my computer before reformating for another show? Would not reformating for a 2nd show cause a problem? Or would it be better off using smaller sd cards for each individual show? Just trying to figure the best alternatives and least costly ways to save on sd cards.
Thanks,
MBHOTAPER
It's fine to use a large card to record many shows over several days. What I meant was, I would not recommend deleting files with your computer on the card. If you just leave the card in and record additional sets or shows, you should have no problem. But when you do copy the files to your computer, don't just delete the files. Use that opportunity to format the card to clear it.
Jason,
Thanks a lot. I think I understand this info, but it is difficult for me, because working on computers is hard for me. I think I have all the basic functions on how to use the 661's presets and utility functions understood now. I did not previously know that I had to reformat the SD card each and every time I was about to record a show though, so that was very helpful information. The load & save settings info was helpful too, and basically confirmed what I thought, although I needed to hear it from someone who knew what they are talking about (unlike me...).
I am confused about the transferring of files between the 661 and my computer, per your discussion with MBHOTAPER above. I understand that it is fine to use a large card to record many shows over many days, but I do not understand what you mean by "not recommend deleting files with your computer on the card". So far, I have only transferred one of my cards to my computer - via a card reader - and when I double clicked on one of the two .wav files on that card, my iTunes program opened and transferred that file into iTunes. Then when I quit iTunes, I apparently lost the entire file which I did not previously click on. I need to open the files in a program where I can track the recording, and boost levels, etc, correct? That may, in my case, be more of a discussion in the Mac OSX thread, since I use a Mac Mini, running v.10.4.11, w/a 1.5GHz Power PC G4 processor.
Harold
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I am confused about the transferring of files between the 661 and my computer, per your discussion with MBHOTAPER above. I understand that it is fine to use a large card to record many shows over many days, but I do not understand what you mean by "not recommend deleting files with your computer on the card". So far, I have only transferred one of my cards to my computer - via a card reader - and when I double clicked on one of the two .wav files on that card, my iTunes program opened and transferred that file into iTunes. Then when I quit iTunes, I apparently lost the entire file which I did not previously click on. I need to open the files in a program where I can track the recording, and boost levels, etc, correct? That may, in my case, be more of a discussion in the Mac OSX thread, since I use a Mac Mini, running v.10.4.11, w/a 1.5GHz Power PC G4 processor.
Harold
Harold,
I don't ever use a Mac, and I've never used iTunes, but I think I can answer your question.
When you put the card in your card reader, and then double click, it opens the files straight from the card (in iTunes). It doesn't actually copy the files off the card to your hard drive. That's why the files are no longer there when you take the card out, because you never copied the files in the first place. So that's the first step, just copy the files from the card to your hard drive. Once they are on your harddrive, there are many programs you can use to track/edit/post-process/whatever. but I can't give you good recommendations for a Mac.
what I meant when I said "not recommend deleting files with your computer on the card" was this:
After you've copied the files from your card onto your computer and done whatever you need or want to do with those files, you are now ready to tape another show. I would recommend against putting the card in your card reader, and using your computer to delete the files from the card. Instead, when you are ready to clear the card to get ready for your next show, put the card in the deck and format it there. That will clear the card and it'll be ready to go.
That said, as I think I clarified above, it's no problem at all to tape multiple bands/sets over several days or whatever on the same card, and of course you don't have to re-format the card before each set (because you would lose all the previous recordings on that card). but in a situation like this, you are not deleting things off the card with your computer, so it's just like slowly filling up the card, which is no big deal.
hopefully this clears some things up.
- Jason
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I just responded to your PM, but for everyone's benefit:
I currently use (and have ever only used) a SanDisk Ultra II 8gb card, and a PNY class 4 16gb card. I use both at 24/96, and I've never had any problems with either.
This is the exact PNY card that I use (and would recommend) -
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820178196
based on a quick look at the SanDisk website, it looks like they've renamed the "Ultra II" series to just "Ultra", and likewise, they have renamed the "Extreme III" series to just "Extreme". So, I think the newer "Ultra" cards are in fact the same cards as the older "Ultra II" cards. though it is a bit confusing and I'm not 100% sure.
Thanks for the input and help.
Doug
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OK, so I ran my PMD-661 for the first time on Friday. Love it! Nice size, easy controls and great meters. I ran it digi in from my Lunatec V3 at 24/96 with AKG 463's and it sounds excellent!
One major problem though. For some reason it did not start a new file at 2 gigs. The first file saved at 3.72 GB (3,999,997,462 bytes). Now I can't open the damn file up in sound forge because it is bigger then 2 gigs. I used 16 gig PNY class 4 sdhc that I have use with my r-44. I can't remember if I formatted the card before using it in the 661. I assume that is probably the reason but wanted to put it out there to the group.
In addition I would love to get some advise on how to proceed with this 3.72 gig file. I figure I could do a "live" digital transfer from my r-44 to the the 661, but I am hoping there is a easier way.
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OK, so I ran my PMD-661 for the first time on Friday. Love it! Nice size, easy controls and great meters. I ran it digi in from my Lunatec V3 at 24/96 with AKG 463's and it sounds excellent!
One major problem though. For some reason it did not start a new file at 2 gigs. The first file saved at 3.72 GB (3,999,997,462 bytes). Now I can't open the damn file up in sound forge because it is bigger then 2 gigs. I used 16 gig PNY class 4 sdhc that I have use with my r-44. I can't remember if I formatted the card before using it in the 661. I assume that is probably the reason but wanted to put it out there to the group.
In addition I would love to get some advise on how to proceed with this 3.72 gig file. I figure I could do a "live" digital transfer from my r-44 to the the 661, but I am hoping there is a easier way.
Ted the "auto file split" is at 4 gigs on the 661- you can split the files manually if desired (pg 26-27 of manual).
Sound Forge 10 will handle files larger than 2 gigs.
If CD Wave Editor can handle a 4 gig file that would be a quick and easy option.
I can split it for you if it comes down to that, just send it to me on a disk or upload it somewhere where I could download it,
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Did you power it from the Tekkeon USB out?
OK, so I ran my PMD-661 for the first time on Friday. Love it! Nice size, easy controls and great meters. I ran it digi in from my Lunatec V3 at 24/96 with AKG 463's and it sounds excellent!
One major problem though. For some reason it did not start a new file at 2 gigs. The first file saved at 3.72 GB (3,999,997,462 bytes). Now I can't open the damn file up in sound forge because it is bigger then 2 gigs. I used 16 gig PNY class 4 sdhc that I have use with my r-44. I can't remember if I formatted the card before using it in the 661. I assume that is probably the reason but wanted to put it out there to the group.
In addition I would love to get some advise on how to proceed with this 3.72 gig file. I figure I could do a "live" digital transfer from my r-44 to the the 661, but I am hoping there is a easier way.
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Ted the "auto file split" is at 4 gigs on the 661- you can split the files manually if desired (pg 26-27 of manual).
Sound Forge 10 will handle files larger than 2 gigs.
If CD Wave Editor can handle a 4 gig file that would be a quick and easy option.
I can split it for you if it comes down to that, just send it to me on a disk or upload it somewhere where I could download it,
Thanks for the info David! I split the file up with CD Wave and downloaded SF 10. I love this little bit bucket. Great for when I want to run the Oade R-44 barefoot with 4 channels and run the V3 digital into the 661. The 460/ck63 > V3 > 661 smoked the 451/ck3 > Oade R-44, as expected.
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Glad that it worked out easily Ted. I luv this box too.
I recently ran stage lip, down low, using: milab vm-44links > ocm 661 and pulled one of the best sounding recordings that I have pulled in quite some time!! The sound is sensational in my opinion. Yes, I know that stage lip has a lot to do with that.
The temptation for me to use a pre in front of the oade 661 is always there but I'm not sure that in many cases that it wouldn't sound better without the additional pre / ad etc... I'm sold on the oade cm 661 as an all in one!
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Did you power it from the Tekkeon USB out?
No I haven't tried that in the field yet, I ran it on my PP-99 with no phantom and ran the V3 with the tekkeon. The R09hr and the PMD-661 have the same DC plug and polarity.
(http://i319.photobucket.com/albums/mm442/tgakidis/cables_and_interconnects/IMG_8587.jpg)
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the "auto file split" is at 4 gigs on the 661- you can split the files manually if desired (pg 26-27 of manual).
The default autosplit is 4 gigs, but you can have it start a new file automatically (without having to manually do the split) at smaller file sizes. but with the PMD-661, you choose the time to start a new file, not the file size. so when I'm running 24/96, I choose to start a new file every 30 minutes (so that each file is approx 1 gig). when running 24/48, I set the split every hour (again, so that each file is approx 1 gig).
In the pre-sets menu, it's option #7, and its called "Auto Track"
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I'm new to the PMD-661 (1 month). I've recently run into a problem, that is similar to one mentioned in this thread. I'm running the very latest firmware A.1.17. When I try to record 24 bit / 96kHz PCM stereo with a brand new PNY 8GB Optima card I get an Err Card 9, quickly followed by Err Card 10. If I use the 2GB card that came with the machine, it records without a problem.
So, did I just get a bad card, or does this card just not have what it takes in the throughput department? I saw one of the other posters mention what I think is the same card, and he seemed to recommend it for just such a use.
Thanks!
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the "auto file split" is at 4 gigs on the 661- you can split the files manually if desired (pg 26-27 of manual).
The default autosplit is 4 gigs, but you can have it start a new file automatically (without having to manually do the split) at smaller file sizes. but with the PMD-661, you choose the time to start a new file, not the file size. so when I'm running 24/96, I choose to start a new file every 30 minutes (so that each file is approx 1 gig). when running 24/48, I set the split every hour (again, so that each file is approx 1 gig).
In the pre-sets menu, it's option #7, and its called "Auto Track"
^
Thanks for the clarification Jason.
I like the 4 gig split.
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I was running digi into the 661 last night, and got the message on the screen "Can Not..."
My recording came out just fine thankfully because it was some HOT shit on them files!
Anyone ever seen this before or know what this might mean?
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I was running digi into the 661 last night, and got the message on the screen "Can Not..."
My recording came out just fine thankfully because it was some HOT shit on them files!
Anyone ever seen this before or know what this might mean?
Is that the entire message: "Can Not..."
Just those two words?
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^^^yep
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I was running digi into the 661 last night, and got the message on the screen "Can Not..."
My recording came out just fine thankfully because it was some HOT shit on them files!
Anyone ever seen this before or know what this might mean?
Is that the entire message: "Can Not..."
Just those two words?
I just looked it up in the manual.... "Can Not..." = "Command Invalid"
Still not sure what that means or why it appeared multiple times.
This message appeared during a first set, so after the end of the set I powered the 661 off..... turned it back on for the next set and never saw that message again.
Any guesses to why this happened??
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I was running digi into the 661 last night, and got the message on the screen "Can Not..."
My recording came out just fine thankfully because it was some HOT shit on them files!
Anyone ever seen this before or know what this might mean?
Is that the entire message: "Can Not..."
Just those two words?
I just looked it up in the manual.... "Can Not..." = "Command Invalid"
Still not sure what that means or why it appeared multiple times.
This message appeared during a first set, so after the end of the set I powered the 661 off..... turned it back on for the next set and never saw that message again.
Any guesses to why this happened??
I think you have a card problem. After you copy off the files from the card, take out the batteries for a few minutes with the card still out, and then reinstall the batteries. Put the card back into the unit and push the "list" button, and then "edit" and delete each file off one by one, and make sure it only has the MPLANG folder, and don't delete that one. Then, reformat the card. If it still gives you problems, go out and buy a Lexar card that is at least a class "4" and you should be fine going forward.
Good luck !!!
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Thanks Brad... I'll do that.
I'm using a SanDisk Ultra, class 4, 32GB, 15MB/sec. card. This deck and card are fairly new to me, so I'm not totally sure about the specs of it........... but I would hope that this card is just fine for this unit.
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were you using the digital input? if so, the "can not..." message pops up whenever the gain knob is moved. absolutely nothing to worry about, just a little reminder that the knobs on the deck don't control the levels when using the digital input, because all levels must be set upstream on your pre and/or A/D converter...
edit to add:
yup, I just re-read your post about this, and you said you were running digi into the deck. so probably the level knob got bumped a little and the message popped up. nothing wrong with your card, and nothing to worry about :)
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I did a "livingroom Test" last night running My R-44 (AC power) with V3 24/96 (off the Tekkeon @ 6v) and the PMD661 24/96 with Phantom ON & Mics (off the Tekkeon 5v USB Plug). The tekkeon had 2 lights missing and it powered the V3 & the 661 for 6+ hours.
Did you power it from the Tekkeon USB out?
OK, so I ran my PMD-661 for the first time on Friday. Love it! Nice size, easy controls and great meters. I ran it digi in from my Lunatec V3 at 24/96 with AKG 463's and it sounds excellent!
One major problem though. For some reason it did not start a new file at 2 gigs. The first file saved at 3.72 GB (3,999,997,462 bytes). Now I can't open the damn file up in sound forge because it is bigger then 2 gigs. I used 16 gig PNY class 4 sdhc that I have use with my r-44. I can't remember if I formatted the card before using it in the 661. I assume that is probably the reason but wanted to put it out there to the group.
In addition I would love to get some advise on how to proceed with this 3.72 gig file. I figure I could do a "live" digital transfer from my r-44 to the the 661, but I am hoping there is a easier way.
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I am confused about the transferring of files between the 661 and my computer, per your discussion with MBHOTAPER above. I understand that it is fine to use a large card to record many shows over many days, but I do not understand what you mean by "not recommend deleting files with your computer on the card". So far, I have only transferred one of my cards to my computer - via a card reader - and when I double clicked on one of the two .wav files on that card, my iTunes program opened and transferred that file into iTunes. Then when I quit iTunes, I apparently lost the entire file which I did not previously click on. I need to open the files in a program where I can track the recording, and boost levels, etc, correct? That may, in my case, be more of a discussion in the Mac OSX thread, since I use a Mac Mini, running v.10.4.11, w/a 1.5GHz Power PC G4 processor.
Harold
Harold,
I don't ever use a Mac, and I've never used iTunes, but I think I can answer your question.
When you put the card in your card reader, and then double click, it opens the files straight from the card (in iTunes). It doesn't actually copy the files off the card to your hard drive. That's why the files are no longer there when you take the card out, because you never copied the files in the first place. So that's the first step, just copy the files from the card to your hard drive. Once they are on your harddrive, there are many programs you can use to track/edit/post-process/whatever. but I can't give you good recommendations for a Mac.
what I meant when I said "not recommend deleting files with your computer on the card" was this:
After you've copied the files from your card onto your computer and done whatever you need or want to do with those files, you are now ready to tape another show. I would recommend against putting the card in your card reader, and using your computer to delete the files from the card. Instead, when you are ready to clear the card to get ready for your next show, put the card in the deck and format it there. That will clear the card and it'll be ready to go.
That said, as I think I clarified above, it's no problem at all to tape multiple bands/sets over several days or whatever on the same card, and of course you don't have to re-format the card before each set (because you would lose all the previous recordings on that card). but in a situation like this, you are not deleting things off the card with your computer, so it's just like slowly filling up the card, which is no big deal.
hopefully this clears some things up.
- Jason
Jason,
Thanks a lot. Yes, I think that does clear up the issues I was having. I dropped & dragged the files from the folder that came up from the card reader onto my desktop. So, they have been copied now. I still have not found the time yet though to figure out which Mac program to use on them for tracking/editing... Thanks for the explanation on clearing the card for use the next time out by formating the card again in the 661 (after I have copied the files to my hard drive).
Harold
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were you using the digital input? if so, the "can not..." message pops up whenever the gain knob is moved. absolutely nothing to worry about, just a little reminder that the knobs on the deck don't control the levels when using the digital input, because all levels must be set upstream on your pre and/or A/D converter...
edit to add:
yup, I just re-read your post about this, and you said you were running digi into the deck. so probably the level knob got bumped a little and the message popped up. nothing wrong with your card, and nothing to worry about :)
That's it Jason! You da man.... thanks for clearing up my confusion......... I did some testing and the message "Can Not..." definitely appears when the gain knob is adjusted while using the digital input. Glad it's not some major issue..... thanks y'all!!!
And, just to mention............ I'm really diggin the 661............. it's grown on me quickly!
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does anyone have any experience using the OCM PMD661 and the Studio Projects LSD2? I don't want to have the problem that i am reading about called brickwalling. Should i set the LSD2 to -10db AND set the 661 to -18db to prevent brickwalling or is that going to be overkill?? any help would be much appreciated.
thanks
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does anyone have any experience using the OCM PMD661 and the Studio Projects LSD2? I don't want to have the problem that i am reading about called brickwalling. Should i set the LSD2 to -10db AND set the 661 to -18db to prevent brickwalling or is that going to be overkill?? any help would be much appreciated.
thanks
I was the one that posted this in another thread, though I was using a stock 661. Brickwalling is when there is distortion caused by overloading the mic input, even though the deck's meters show good levels. It has been reported elsewhere that if you must turn the dial below "4" to keep recording levels from going too high, you are probably going to get brickwalling.
I had the LSD2 running into the 661 with the mic pad off and the deck set to the -18 setting. The opener was louder than I had expected, and I was getting the red leds lighting up and the dial was set just below "5". Fortunately, I did not get brickwalling, or clipping. I am not sure when the red led lights up, but my file peaked at -0.5db or so, even though the red leds came on. For the next act, I engaged the pad on the mic and kept recording. Keep in mind that it was a small club and I was not that far from the PA. I wouldn't necessarily hesitate to engage the -10 pad on your mic, but I would also experiment where you normally record to see if the pad is even needed. If you don't have a 661 yet, see if you can borrow one to try out.
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i did get the 661 and the lsd2 but haven't been to a show to try them out and wanted to know how to set them so i don't get brickwalling if possible.
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the settings on the deck (-18, -12, -6, and 0dB) are gain settings, not an attenuator setting. so it's best to set it as low as possible that will still give you good levels. So I'd start with the deck at -18dB and no pad on your mic. personally, I always run my deck at the -18dB setting, and I also always use the -15dB pad on my mics. However, I think the beyerdynamic mics are more sensitive than the LSD2, so you might not need to use the pad on your mics.
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The Oade concert and warm mods both increase the headroom of the preamps significantly over the stock unit, while lowering the noise floor at the same time. The super mod is for nature recording, so with the increased sensitivity of that mod, you would face the same issue as the stock unit has with headroom. I always run an outboard preamp in front of my warm mod, going into the 661 XLR line in, and have yet to have a too loud input source create any brickwalling problems. Have not tested it much as an all-in-one, though......
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The attenuator is nothing more than a gain setting. In my experiences, it's best to keep it as low as possible (-18db) provided you're still able to get levels in the -6 to -3db range. Only during super quiet performances (regardless of indoor/outdoor) do I even consider the thought of increasing the preset gain. Your microphones, of course, will have some influence over this as well depending upon their sensitivity.
Are you referring to using mics direct into the 661 when using -18 db? I ran my OCM 661 direct from my ho's w/-12 db and it sounds pretty good with no brickwalling.
When I ran my mini-mp in front of it I was @ 0 db and it sounds great! Just want to clarify when to use the -12db or -18db is for just running straight into the 661. If not does the OCM or OWM provide enough head room that the -12db or -18db is not needed?
Thanks,
mbhotaper
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Anyone know if when the headphone volume is turned up (with NO headphones plugged in).... does the headphone amp draw power?
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the settings on the deck (-18, -12, -6, and 0dB) are gain settings, not an attenuator setting. so it's best to set it as low as possible that will still give you good levels. So I'd start with the deck at -18dB and no pad on your mic. personally, I always run my deck at the -18dB setting, and I also always use the -15dB pad on my mics. However, I think the beyerdynamic mics are more sensitive than the LSD2, so you might not need to use the pad on your mics.
I've been running mine @ -18dB for best results. -12dB if it's a smaller club, but never less than that. I've been running a V3/MP-2 in front as well.
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Has anyone had any problems after updating to the latest version released 05/19/2010? Details and link for the update below. I have a break from recording and am looking to do the update now.
Marantz PMD661 Firmware Update Version A1.17
http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4405&Tab=FAQ
PMD661 v.1.17 Firmware Details:
1. When unit is restored after abnormal termination, data's chunk might not be correct.
2. Malfunction might occur when using an SD card that is formatted by PMD661 in other equipment.
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Has anyone had any problems after updating to the latest version released 05/19/2010? Details and link for the update below. I have a break from recording and am looking to do the update now.
I believe that's the FW version I have on my stock 661, and I haven't had any problems with it. I'll check my 661 when I find my rechargeables...
Also, anyone have an idea (or guess) when the next iteration of the 66x will come out? I don't know how long the 660 life-cycle was but I'm guessing it was at least a couple of years. Would love to see a 662 that is even smaller, lighter, and longer-lasting. 8)
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Has anyone had any problems after updating to the latest version released 05/19/2010? Details and link for the update below. I have a break from recording and am looking to do the update now.
Marantz PMD661 Firmware Update Version A1.17
http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4405&Tab=FAQ
PMD661 v.1.17 Firmware Details:
1. When unit is restored after abnormal termination, data's chunk might not be correct.
2. Malfunction might occur when using an SD card that is formatted by PMD661 in other equipment.
I have used the new FW revision for two shows now with absolutely no problems.
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Has anyone had any problems after updating to the latest version released 05/19/2010? Details and link for the update below. I have a break from recording and am looking to do the update now.
Marantz PMD661 Firmware Update Version A1.17
http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4405&Tab=FAQ
PMD661 v.1.17 Firmware Details:
1. When unit is restored after abnormal termination, data's chunk might not be correct.
2. Malfunction might occur when using an SD card that is formatted by PMD661 in other equipment.
I have used the new FW revision for two shows now with absolutely no problems.
Okay thanks, I went ahead with the update. Fingers crossed for next show, there were no problems after the last update.
My unit came with vA1.14, I jumped to vA1.16 now running vA1.17
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^
I used the 661 as a bit bucket with the updated firmware for all three nights of the greek, no problems.
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Can I take the memory card with wav files recorded on my R-09HR, and put the card in my PMD 661, without any resulting problems with the files or playback on the 661(the files are recorded at a format the 661 accepts)?
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Can I take the memory card with wav files recorded on my R-09HR, and put the card in my PMD 661, without any resulting problems with the files or playback on the 661(the files are recorded at a format the 661 accepts)?
You know, that could work, but I would not risk it if it was me. Either the files from the R-09 could drop off the root directory, or there could be an issue with the files recorded later on the 661 if the card was formatted previously on the R-09.
I have been able to use the disk checking feature in Windows to repair corrupted files on a CF card before resulting from the card's use being split between two pieces of equipment in a simlar way to what you suggest, but there was a period of frantic scrambling before the root errors were fixed that I don't ever want to experience again. My advice is not to attempt use of the same SD card between an R09 and 661.
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So here is a cautionary note about the 661 and heat, it seems that the unit might be fairly sensitive to heat.
My story is that last year I recorded a lot of nature sounds in the Gobi and as a result a hiss developed in one of the channels (this is a Oade Supermod by the way). There were a bunch of shows I wanted to record so I didn't send it off right away and the hiss was low enough that for loud things it wasn't a problem for me, but was obvious on quiet sounds. Finally I sent it back to Oade to get fixed. He suspected that it was one of the modified parts, but that turned out to not be the case, it was in fact on the main PCB. After a long wait I got the unit back in good working order until a couple of weeks ago when working in Seattle in 90 degree heat, the hiss returned. The first time this happened, mine was the only unit Oade was aware of with this problem, but now someone else who records in the desert is having the same issue. A few days ago I took my unit to record in the desert (mid 80's temp, hey, it's already noisy now, might as well, right?), and the hiss is now a ugly hum. I know heat is bad for electronics, but considering I was using it within the stated operational temps (104 degrees), it was a bit of a surprise.
Doug is currently working Marantz to see what the deal is. Luckily summer seems to be winding down, but if you are in a hot environment you might want to be careful.
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I tried searching but wasn't able to find the posts in the 661 threads about how low your gain setting can be before you get any risk of distortion. My memory is saying that it was '4' but that seems kind of high, and I've recorded around '4' a lot in the past due to risk of peaking at higher gain level settings. Anyone know or have experience with that (distortion below a certain gain level)?
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I tried searching but wasn't able to find the posts in the 661 threads about how low your gain setting can be before you get any risk of distortion. My memory is saying that it was '4' but that seems kind of high, and I've recorded around '4' a lot in the past due to risk of peaking at higher gain level settings. Anyone know or have experience with that (distortion below a certain gain level)?
the only time I have had any distortion was my very first recording with the 661. It was also my first time out with the beyerdynamics, and obviously, I was still learning about the mics and the deck. The beyerdynamics are very high output mics. Just about as high as I've seen for the "typical" mics that tapers use. on that first outing, I didn't not engage the -15 dB switch on my mics, and I had the 661 set to the -12dB gain setting. I had the dial set a little bit below 4, and I had minor distortion (brickwalling), but only during the loudest peaks. The recording is still listenable. Based on that, I have posted in the past to try to keep the dial above "4". I'm not sure if anyone else has done more extensive testing, but that is my experience. Since that show, I have always used the -15 dB switch on my mics (my understanding is that the implementation is such that it lowers the sensitivity of the capsules by 15dB, and isn't really a attenuator), and I always use the -18dB gain setting on the 661. This has worked very well for me, and I haven't had any other brickwalling distortion on my recordings (and my gain knob is usually around 5).
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Thanks JS, it was probably your post that I was remembering. I've always used the max pad of -18dB but for many or most shows I've found that I have to stay around '4' on gain or else it'll get uncomfortably into the red.
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is it sandisk and lexar that marantz recommends?
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is it sandisk and lexar that marantz recommends?
I beleive it's sandisk and PNY. I've stuck with sandisk so far, and have only had an issue with the most recent card (a class 4, 16G). I ordered another just like it to see if it's a card issue. Been getting some weird digi-distortion on the two shows I recorded on that card. I'm inclined to beleive it's just user error though.
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thanks Jason
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FWIW, I've been using a 16gb class 6 Transcend card for a good six months or so without any issues at all.
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just ordered an OCM 661! gonna pick up a few of these cards.
http://www.buy.com/prod/sandisk-8gb-ultra-ii-secure-digital-high-capacity-sdhc-high/q/loc/101/206812519.html (http://www.buy.com/prod/sandisk-8gb-ultra-ii-secure-digital-high-capacity-sdhc-high/q/loc/101/206812519.html)
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I use a SanDisk Ultra Class4, 15mb/sec., 32gb card. Been working great at 24/48... no issues at all.
I didn't get it from B&H, but this seems to be the same.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/563180-REG/SanDisk_SDSDRH_032G_A11_32GB_Ultra_SDHC_Memory.html
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Can I take the memory card with wav files recorded on my R-09HR, and put the card in my PMD 661, without any resulting problems with the files or playback on the 661(the files are recorded at a format the 661 accepts)?
You know, that could work, but I would not risk it if it was me. Either the files from the R-09 could drop off the root directory, or there could be an issue with the files recorded later on the 661 if the card was formatted previously on the R-09.
I have been able to use the disk checking feature in Windows to repair corrupted files on a CF card before resulting from the card's use being split between two pieces of equipment in a simlar way to what you suggest, but there was a period of frantic scrambling before the root errors were fixed that I don't ever want to experience again. My advice is not to attempt use of the same SD card between an R09 and 661.
Thanks for the advice, DATBRAD.
Next question ~ What if after I have transferred the files from my R-09HR onto my harddrive (using a card reader), then put the card back in my R-09HR and formatted the card...can I then put that same card in my PMD-661, format it again, and record files on the 661 without any issues related to it previously being formatted on the R-09HR?
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Can I take the memory card with wav files recorded on my R-09HR, and put the card in my PMD 661, without any resulting problems with the files or playback on the 661(the files are recorded at a format the 661 accepts)?
You know, that could work, but I would not risk it if it was me. Either the files from the R-09 could drop off the root directory, or there could be an issue with the files recorded later on the 661 if the card was formatted previously on the R-09.
I have been able to use the disk checking feature in Windows to repair corrupted files on a CF card before resulting from the card's use being split between two pieces of equipment in a simlar way to what you suggest, but there was a period of frantic scrambling before the root errors were fixed that I don't ever want to experience again. My advice is not to attempt use of the same SD card between an R09 and 661.
Thanks for the advice, DATBRAD.
Next question ~ What if after I have transferred the files from my R-09HR onto my harddrive (using a card reader), then put the card back in my R-09HR and formatted the card...can I then put that same card in my PMD-661, format it again, and record files on the 661 without any issues related to it previously being formatted on the R-09HR?
I think that's fine. Actually, once you copy the files from the R-09HR, there's really no need to format the card again in the R-09HR. As long as you clear the card by formatting it in the PMD-661, you should be good to go to record on the PMD-661, with no issues relating to the card previously being formatted/used in the R-09HR. You could probably go back and forth between the R-09HR and PMD-661, using the same card in both decks, as long as you format the card in the deck that you want to use before recording.
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does anybody have the portabrace for their 661?
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does anybody have the portabrace for their 661?
I'm using portabrace for my gear bag and accessory bags but using the Marantz case for the 661, although it is not as nice as the portabrace offering it was bundled for free with the recorder as a limited time offer and gets the job done nicely.
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does anybody have the portabrace for their 661?
I'm using portabrace for my gear bag and accessory bags but using the Marantz case for the 661, although it is not as nice as the portabrace offering it was bundled for free with the recorder as a limited time offer and gets the job done nicely.
when you get the chance, would you please post a few pics of the 661 in the marantz case? hard to get a feel for it from the stock photo that is online. thanks!
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got my 661 today! so tiny. i gotta say, im a little disappointed at the angle of the LED meters. you can't see them with the unit on it's end. gonna be awkward having to tilt the deck towards me to see the levels. is this what all y'all are doing, just tilting it in your bag?
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Well my pmd 661 failed me last night. The recording just stopped after 2 minutes. I restarted immediately and it did it again... When I first purchased this recording device they recommended lexar... So bought me a lexar. The card failed instantly. Err 2 err8 ect. So then I switched to transend cards and they worked for 2 weeks. So I called Marantz up and once again they recommend lexar. So I bought another lexar card, but it wasn't very fast. The card was stable, but I notice a digi pop here and there. So once again I switched to a lexar 8gb card and it worked great.. So I needed another card and the bought the 16gb lexar and it failed me again...like the first card I bought. Are these lexar cards crappy? Should I try another brand? I had err 2, err 8 and err 10. Very frustrating to say the least. Who can recommend a good card for this device that's not lexar. Sandisk, Kingston, or who? One thing I know is to test the card out, from beginning to end. Also how are class 4 cards?
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does anybody have the portabrace for their 661?
I'm using portabrace for my gear bag and accessory bags but using the Marantz case for the 661, although it is not as nice as the portabrace offering it was bundled for free with the recorder as a limited time offer and gets the job done nicely.
when you get the chance, would you please post a few pics of the 661 in the marantz case? hard to get a feel for it from the stock photo that is online. thanks!
Here are some quick pics, hope they help to give you a good idea of the Marantz case ...
(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/Marantz%20PMD661%20Case/IMG_3358.jpg)
(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/Marantz%20PMD661%20Case/IMG_3359.jpg)
(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/Marantz%20PMD661%20Case/IMG_3362.jpg)
(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/Marantz%20PMD661%20Case/IMG_3366.jpg)
(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/Marantz%20PMD661%20Case/IMG_3367.jpg)
(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/Marantz%20PMD661%20Case/IMG_3368.jpg)
Added the key clip below to easily attach a carabiner for securing the recorder to the top of my portabrace gear bag while recording.(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/Marantz%20PMD661%20Case/IMG_3370.jpg)
(http://i1041.photobucket.com/albums/b419/DigiGal_taper/Marantz%20PMD661%20Case/IMG_3372.jpg)
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thank you so much. those pix are just what i needed. one question, that extra fabric on the XLR end...can it be rolled up and "out of the way"? that's gonna get in the way of my stubby XLRs. thanks again for the pics.
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thank you so much. those pix are just what i needed. one question, that extra fabric on the XLR end...can it be rolled up and "out of the way"? that's gonna get in the way of my stubby XLRs. thanks again for the pics.
Yes, it rolls up so you should be able to use your stubby's with it but I use regular neutrik NCM3X connectors. Right angle stubby's could be tricky with it though. It is a basically a nylon snorkel with a drawstring at the end. You could always run the cables through the snorkel and attach them to the 661 while pulled out of the front of the case and then slide it back in.
The portabrace 661 case utilizes a better design and materials but is very pricey for what it is compared to their other recorder cases.
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thanks for the info!
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just making sure here, if i'm running a pre in front of the 661 and i wanna get all my gain from the pre, i should have the 661 dial at 0?
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just making sure here, if i'm running a pre in front of the 661 and i wanna get all my gain from the pre, i should have the 661 dial at 0?
I don't think what you are considering is even possible with this unit. Unlike most recorders with unbalanced -10db consumer level line inputs, the PMD661 has +4db balanced XLR pro line level inputs. That's a 14db difference in gain range. When my Sound Devices MP-1s are maxing output at 17db when the limiters kick in, the gain knob on my 661 is always sitting past "5" or the 12 o'clock position for good levels. I just can't imagine that any preamp could pump enough gain to allow the gain knob on the 661 to sit at zero, just does not seem possible at all to me.
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just making sure here, if i'm running a pre in front of the 661 and i wanna get all my gain from the pre, i should have the 661 dial at 0?
I don't think what you are considering is even possible with this unit. Unlike most recorders with unbalanced -10db consumer level line inputs, the PMD661 has +4db balanced XLR pro line level inputs. That's a 14db difference in gain range. When my Sound Devices MP-1s are maxing output at 17db when the limiters kick in, the gain knob on my 661 is always sitting past "5" or the 12 o'clock position for good levels. I just can't imagine that any preamp could pump enough gain to allow the gain knob on the 661 to sit at zero, just does not seem possible at all to me.
thanks Brad. so do you think the 702 doesn't have +4db pro line level inputs? i always just set it to 0db and pumped all the gain from my psp-3, usually ~35db for a rock show.
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just making sure here, if i'm running a pre in front of the 661 and i wanna get all my gain from the pre, i should have the 661 dial at 0?
I don't think what you are considering is even possible with this unit. Unlike most recorders with unbalanced -10db consumer level line inputs, the PMD661 has +4db balanced XLR pro line level inputs. That's a 14db difference in gain range. When my Sound Devices MP-1s are maxing output at 17db when the limiters kick in, the gain knob on my 661 is always sitting past "5" or the 12 o'clock position for good levels. I just can't imagine that any preamp could pump enough gain to allow the gain knob on the 661 to sit at zero, just does not seem possible at all to me.
thanks Brad. so do you think the 702 doesn't have +4db pro line level inputs? i always just set it to 0db and pumped all the gain from my psp-3, usually ~35db for a rock show.
The 702's line input can take up to +20dBu, if I recall correctly. The difference with the PMD-661, I think, is that 0 on the knob doesn't equal 0dB. Which brings up the fact that I don't think I've ever seen testing on the PMD-661 to find out where "unity" gain is going line-in.
Well my pmd 661 failed me last night. The recording just stopped after 2 minutes. I restarted immediately and it did it again... When I first purchased this recording device they recommended lexar... So bought me a lexar. The card failed instantly. Err 2 err8 ect. So then I switched to transend cards and they worked for 2 weeks. So I called Marantz up and once again they recommend lexar. So I bought another lexar card, but it wasn't very fast. The card was stable, but I notice a digi pop here and there. So once again I switched to a lexar 8gb card and it worked great.. So I needed another card and the bought the 16gb lexar and it failed me again...like the first card I bought. Are these lexar cards crappy? Should I try another brand? I had err 2, err 8 and err 10. Very frustrating to say the least. Who can recommend a good card for this device that's not lexar. Sandisk, Kingston, or who? One thing I know is to test the card out, from beginning to end. Also how are class 4 cards?
sorry to hear about your troubles. I've used a SanDisk and a PNY card since I got the deck, with no troubles with either. As others have stated, many people are using SanDisk cards, all without trouble.
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just heard back from Doug. he said when using a pre-amp, set it to XLR line-in and set the knob to 7 as that is unity gain, fwiw.
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just heard back from Doug. he said when using a pre-amp, set it to XLR line-in and set the knob to 7 as that is unity gain, fwiw.
Good to know, thanks Dennis!
I run my 661 out of the bag, horizontally oriented to set the gain initially, then "lock" the control and gain buttons and then insert it into a bag, large pocket, etc...
Did you get the concert mod from Doug?
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yep, i got the concert mod. first run will be thursday for TLG. 8)
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yep, i got the concert mod. first run will be thursday for TLG. 8)
Did you get new mics? Saw the ccms fro sale.
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yep, i got the concert mod. first run will be thursday for TLG. 8)
Did you get new mics? Saw the ccms fro sale.
not yet. i've been borrowing chris' 4028/4023s and i have louie's CMRs for the next week or so.
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Nicey!
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Speaking of line inputs the Marantz manual lists them as:
LINE 1 -> XLR inputs -> 0 bBu / 4.2 K ohms
LINE 2 -> 1/8" stereo jack -> 500 mV rms / 20 K ohms
It is real easy to forget about the LINE 2 input, but it does have one for anyone using a pre-amp having only consumer level outputs.
(http://www.d-mpro.com/users/FolderData/%7BD7BE3B59-5BA6-4892-8EA7-AC454FE0B5C8%7D/PMD661_RHside_thumb.jpg)
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Who can recommend a good card for this device that's not lexar. Sandisk, Kingston, or who? One thing I know is to test the card out, from beginning to end. Also how are class 4 cards?
I have a few of the 16GB PNY Optima SDHC class 4 cards and haven't had any issues. Currently $32.99 through Amazon.
http://www.amazon.com/PNY-Optima-Class-Memory-P-SDHC16G4-EF/dp/B001518O24/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1283721481&sr=1-1
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Has anyone experianced problems with the SPDIF input of the PMD-661?
I have a Microtrack II that freqently locks up when using the SPDIF input. A friend of mine also has a Microtrack II and he has the same problem. I regret buying it!
So now I'm considering a 661. Is the SPFIF input reliable?
I did a search but didn't find anything.
Thanks,
Tom
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Has anyone experianced problems with the SPDIF input of the PMD-661?
I have a Microtrack II that freqently locks up when using the SPDIF input. A friend of mine also has a Microtrack II and he has the same problem. I regret buying it!
So now I'm considering a 661. Is the SPFIF input reliable?
I did a search but didn't find anything.
Thanks,
Tom
^
I have used the SPDIF input probably at least 20 times with the 661- no problems whatsoever.
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Has anyone experianced problems with the SPDIF input of the PMD-661?
I have a Microtrack II that freqently locks up when using the SPDIF input. A friend of mine also has a Microtrack II and he has the same problem. I regret buying it!
So now I'm considering a 661. Is the SPFIF input reliable?
I did a search but didn't find anything.
Thanks,
Tom
^
I have used the SPDIF input probably at least 20 times with the 661- no problems whatsoever.
I concur. the S/PDIF input is solid (as is the rest of the deck). I've used the S/PDIF input at a few shows, and also for tons of DAT transfers. never any problems.
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yep, i got the concert mod. first run will be thursday for TLG. 8)
Did you get new mics? Saw the ccms fro sale.
not yet. i've been borrowing chris' 4028/4023s and i have louie's CMRs for the next week or so.
What do you have your eye on for new mics sugar?
Those DPA 4011's in the yard look mighty tasty.
Unless you were aiming for something modular?
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yep, i got the concert mod. first run will be thursday for TLG. 8)
Did you get new mics? Saw the ccms fro sale.
not yet. i've been borrowing chris' 4028/4023s and i have louie's CMRs for the next week or so.
What do you have your eye on for new mics sugar?
Those DPA 4011's in the yard look mighty tasty.
Unless you were aiming for something modular?
i'll have CMRs soon and will borrow caps until i decide on a new flavor(not 4s)
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Whore.
Gonna run a pre?
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we'll see. i have a few of those at my disposal as well. :P
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This will be my next purchase.
I always like to wait a bit to see if there are any major flaws.
Looks as if it's rock solid though.
Seems like a natural progression moving up from louies old Busman 660.
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:coolguy:
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just fired up my new 661 for the first time. i gotta say, the display screen is pretty bad-ass. very easy to read. im running a battery test with energizer e2 lithiums with phantom at 24/48. will report back.
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The awkward form factor for viewing the meters might be one thing that I didn't mention to ya Dennis... sorry about that. The OLED screen is bad ass.... in an open environment, I situate the 661 so that I can see the screen. I turn the LED's off to save a little battery life.
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no worries Guy. i've already figured out how to run it in one of my bags where i can see the LEDs just fine.
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well this is alarming. 3hr 24min into my battery test, my 661 stopped recording. just stopped. 24/48, phantom on, sandisk class 4. hit stop, then record, and it fired back up. not exactly what i was hoping for. :-\
eta: battery meter still showed full at the time it stopped
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well this is alarming. 3hr 24min into my battery test, my 661 stopped recording. just stopped. 24/48, phantom on, sandisk class 4. hit stop, then record, and it fired back up. not exactly what i was hoping for. :-\
eta: battery meter still showed full at the time it stopped
in your settings, do you have "Auto Track" turned off? (It's the 7th item under presets). That's where you set it to start a new file after a given amount of time. I usually have mine set at 30 min (if I'm running 24/96) or 1 hour (if I'm running 24/48). Either way, my files are all around 1 gig and then a new files starts.
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well this is alarming. 3hr 24min into my battery test, my 661 stopped recording. just stopped. 24/48, phantom on, sandisk class 4. hit stop, then record, and it fired back up. not exactly what i was hoping for. :-\
eta: battery meter still showed full at the time it stopped
in your settings, do you have "Auto Track" turned off? (It's the 7th item under presets). That's where you set it to start a new file after a given amount of time. I usually have mine set at 30 min (if I'm running 24/96) or 1 hour (if I'm running 24/48). Either way, my files are all around 1 gig and then a new files starts.
yes i do have it set to off. i didnt see the point in starting a new file if i didnt have to. is there some concern over the 661 not being able to successfully write a single file for a few hours straight? or are you asking too much of the card by doing this?
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yes i do have it set to off. i didnt see the point in starting a new file if i didnt have to. is there some concern over the 661 not being able to successfully write a single file for a few hours straight? or are you asking too much of the card by doing this?
Some editing programs like Sound Forge I believe cannot open a file larger than 2gb in size, which is the only reason I would prefer to have a 2gb auto split function.
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yeah no problems with wavelab 6 and larger files. i just spoke with Doug and he said he wouldnt use any less than a class 6 card for 24/48 and class 10 for 24/96, fwiw.
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well this is alarming. 3hr 24min into my battery test, my 661 stopped recording. just stopped. 24/48, phantom on, sandisk class 4. hit stop, then record, and it fired back up. not exactly what i was hoping for. :-\
eta: battery meter still showed full at the time it stopped
in your settings, do you have "Auto Track" turned off? (It's the 7th item under presets). That's where you set it to start a new file after a given amount of time. I usually have mine set at 30 min (if I'm running 24/96) or 1 hour (if I'm running 24/48). Either way, my files are all around 1 gig and then a new files starts.
yes i do have it set to off. i didnt see the point in starting a new file if i didnt have to. is there some concern over the 661 not being able to successfully write a single file for a few hours straight? or are you asking too much of the card by doing this?
As I said, I always have mine set to either 30 min or 1 hour. I don't think having it set to off would be extras stress on teh card, but rather, I am not familiar with the deck's operations when it gets to the file size limit. I thought it was supposed to automatically start a new file, but maybe it doesn't. Because I know that if AutoTrack is on, it will automatically start a new file at the specified time, I suggest you try your test with autotrack set to "on", and then if the deck just stops, you know it isn't because the max file size is reached. The weird thing is that 3 hr and 24 min, at 24/48, your file should be about 3.5 gb, yes? and I thought that if autotrack was off, the max file size was 4gb. So maybe this has nothing to do with why your deck stopped. It does seem strange.
yeah no problems with wavelab 6 and larger files. i just spoke with Doug and he said he wouldnt use any less than a class 6 card for 24/48 and class 10 for 24/96, fwiw.
That may be a good recommendation in practice. In theory, class 2 (@ 2MB/s) is 4 times the speed needed for stereo 24/96 (at ~0.5MB/s). but we all know how the real world can differ from theory... That said, I've use both an 8gb SanDisk Ultra II card and a 16gb PNY card (both are class 4), and I've never had any issues with 24/96 files. Not that the faster cards wouldn't work, but I think they might be overkill.
To sum up, we don't really know why your deck stopped during the battery test. What type of card was it? Also, was it freshly formatted before you started the battery test?
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sandisk ultra 8g class 4. freshly formatted in the 661 right before starting battery test. this morning, i fired back up the test and the deck stopped again, this time after only 41 min. yikes! wonder if i got a dud card.
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sandisk ultra 8g class 4. freshly formatted in the 661 right before starting battery test. this morning, i fired back up the test and the deck stopped again, this time after only 41 min. yikes! wonder if i got a dud card.
yikes indeed. Do you have another card to test with? Also, the only "dud" SanDisk cards that I recall hearing about were fake sandisk cards sold on ebay. Is that possible? Did you buy from ebay? If not, I guess it doesn't mean that a real Sandisk card can't be a dud, but they are a good company that consisteny makes good flash cards. Other than the possibility of a dud card, I'm at a loss of what else it could be...
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bought from amazon from beach camera. testing with the 2g card that came with the deck now. thanks for replying Jason.
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i got just over 7hrs with phantom on at 24/48, brightness on 5 and LEDs ON with energizer e2 lithiums
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i got just over 7hrs with phantom on at 24/48, brightness on 5 and LEDs ON with energizer e2 lithiums
How much current draw with your mics?
PMD661 Battery test data here:
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=119213.msg1597270#msg1597270
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was running schoeps CMRs with 21 caps. not sure what their draw is.
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I just bought an Energizer external lithium ion battery pack (http://www.buy.com/pr/product.aspx?sku=216795526 (http://www.buy.com/pr/product.aspx?sku=216795526)) to use with my 661. My question is, if I have the external battery connected to the 661 and also have internal batteries in the 661, how/where will power be drawn from? Will it draw from the external first, and then when that's drained, go to the internals, or will it drain from both at the same time?
The main reason I'm curious about this is that I wouldn't want the external to drain too much and supply an insufficient voltage to my mics. It would be nice if the two power sources could be 'additive' instead of draining sequentially which could cause insufficient voltage issues.
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I just bought an Energizer external lithium ion battery pack (http://www.buy.com/pr/product.aspx?sku=216795526 (http://www.buy.com/pr/product.aspx?sku=216795526)) to use with my 661. My question is, if I have the external battery connected to the 661 and also have internal batteries in the 661, how/where will power be drawn from? Will it draw from the external first, and then when that's drained, go to the internals, or will it drain from both at the same time?
The main reason I'm curious about this is that I wouldn't want the external to drain too much and supply an insufficient voltage to my mics. It would be nice if the two power sources could be 'additive' instead of draining sequentially which could cause insufficient voltage issues.
The 661 will treat the external battery the same as the supplied AC adapter. There is a built in switch on the external power jack that switches the unit from internal to external power. This switch appears to be seamless so if you have "AA"'s installed and pull the external power cable out it will continue to function. You can see the graphic "plug symbol" on the OLED display change to the "battery meter". I'm not sure what happens if your external battery falls below the minimum voltage required for it to regulate properly though. Since using a Tekkeon external battery I haven't even come close to running low. I recently started running 1.2V eneloop LSD NiMH rechargable "AA"'s for the internals to completely eliminate alkaline usage with the 661.
Disclaimer: Someone mentioned in a previous post that Marantz does not endorse the use of external batteries. ;)
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Thanks DigiGal, guess I'll have to try it out when I get it. Will report back later with results...
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You know, I have had my 661 now for almost a year and a half, and not once have I found using NiMH internal AAs to be a limitation. I have had the unit turned on for close to 5 hours several times without even getting close to low power indication (line in).
For me, externals are just another thing to carry that with this recorder, are unecessary with the possible exception of an all day festival. I can still see just 2 sets of AAs being enough for that too. Just my opinion, everyone has their own needs of course.
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maiden voyage last night. does anybody find that it doesnt take much change in sound pressure to jump from -10 to -2 on the LEDs? i just found it odd how easily it would hit -2 from riding the -10, with not that much increase in PA volume. almost like it was just skipping right past the -6. listening back now, it does sound really good!
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maiden voyage last night. does anybody find that it doesnt take much change in sound pressure to jump from -10 to -2 on the LEDs? i just found it odd how easily it would hit -2 from riding the -10, with not that much increase in PA volume. almost like it was just skipping right past the -6. listening back now, it does sound really good!
My 660 is the same way FWIW.
It skips right through.
Did you run direct or with a pre?
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direct last night. gonna run direct tomorrow for pgroove and then throw the psp-3 back in the mix for a comp.
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I've notice that on my 660 meters too. I think the PA is actually getting that loud, that fast. It is our hearing that can't perceive the difference becuase our ears are not linear in loud SPL's. Perhaps the Marantz is able to percieve the difference better than us.
During an acoustic show the meters jump, but I also hear the change in amplitude.
Just my $0.02, could be and likely am wrong! :)
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just curious, where do y'all usually end up on the dial for a smallish(~400) club rock show? somewhere between 4-5? running without an external pre by the way.
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just curious, where do y'all usually end up on the dial for a smallish(~400) club rock show? somewhere between 4-5? running without an external pre by the way.
With my ccm4s running directly into the 661 I've never been able to run higher than gain of '5' and usually around '4' (and in various indoor/outdoor venues). I do wish their was a larger pad than -18dB.
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just curious, where do y'all usually end up on the dial for a smallish(~400) club rock show? somewhere between 4-5? running without an external pre by the way.
With my ccm4s running directly into the 661 I've never been able to run higher than gain of '5' and usually around '4' (and in various indoor/outdoor venues). I do wish their was a larger pad than -18dB.
Same here the level is normally between 4 and 5 running mics straight into the 661 without a external preamp.
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just curious, where do y'all usually end up on the dial for a smallish(~400) club rock show? somewhere between 4-5? running without an external pre by the way.
With my ccm4s running directly into the 661 I've never been able to run higher than gain of '5' and usually around '4' (and in various indoor/outdoor venues). I do wish their was a larger pad than -18dB.
^
Without an external pre I've had the same results with Milab VM-44 Links and Gefell M200's: "I've never been able to run higher than gain of '5' and usually around '4' ."
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thanks for the replies. do y'all find the meters on the display screen to be much more accurate than the LEDs?
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thanks for the replies. do y'all find the meters on the display screen to be much more accurate than the LEDs?
^
I've never compared the two, I'll try to the next time out.
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thanks for the replies. do y'all find the meters on the display screen to be much more accurate than the LEDs?
In a word: Yes!
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What the hell...sold some of my guitar pedals and misc stuff that I don't need anymore.... ordered a warm mod unit.
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anybody have any experience with these Lenmar AAs?
http://www.thomasdistributing.com/shop/aa-lenmar-pro827-2700mah-rechargeable-aa-batteriesbrnickel-metal-hydridebr8-pack-p-1795.html?SP_id=&osCsid=a98rm8a91donrsllit8gi3gna7 (http://www.thomasdistributing.com/shop/aa-lenmar-pro827-2700mah-rechargeable-aa-batteriesbrnickel-metal-hydridebr8-pack-p-1795.html?SP_id=&osCsid=a98rm8a91donrsllit8gi3gna7)
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I had great success with these Sanyo 2700's from the same seller:
http://tinyurl.com/nds3a8
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I recently picked up a set of Sanyo's Eneloop LSD (low self discharge) NiMH's 2000mAh which are supposed to hold their charge and last longer. This package includes a charger and 2 sets of "AA" color coded batteries along with 4 "AAA"'s.
http://www.amazon.com/Sanyo-Eneloop-Charger-Rechargeable-Batteries/dp/B003VLAEPQ/ref=pd_ys_iyr4
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I recently picked up a set of Sanyo's Eneloop LSD (low self discharge) NiMH's 2000mAh which are supposed to hold their charge and last longer. This package includes a charger and 2 sets of "AA" color coded batteries along with 4 "AAA"'s.
http://www.amazon.com/Sanyo-Eneloop-Charger-Rechargeable-Batteries/dp/B003VLAEPQ/ref=pd_ys_iyr4
had a chance to test their runtime in the 661 yet?
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I recently picked up a set of Sanyo's Eneloop LSD (low self discharge) NiMH's 2000mAh which are supposed to hold their charge and last longer. This package includes a charger and 2 sets of "AA" color coded batteries along with 4 "AAA"'s.
http://www.amazon.com/Sanyo-Eneloop-Charger-Rechargeable-Batteries/dp/B003VLAEPQ/ref=pd_ys_iyr4
had a chance to test their runtime in the 661 yet?
Just got them and haven't actually tested them yet. These LSD's will supplement my Tekkeon MP3450 which gives 15+ hours running with phantom on. I'm hoping to do a battery run test of the Eneloops when I get a chance though and will post the results for inclusion in the collected battery data chart, just not sure when I'll get to it.
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yeah im trying to convince myself to just get a tekkeon and be done with it but i hate carrying around an external battery when i dont really have to. and i love knowing that with the e2 lithiums i have NO worries for a long show but damn they are costly.
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What the hell...sold some of my guitar pedals and misc stuff that I don't need anymore.... ordered a warm mod unit.
Good call
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FYI...i got 2hr 49min, phantom ON, LEDs OFF, from a set of Kirkland(Costco) regular AAs
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I had great success with these Sanyo 2700's from the same seller:
http://tinyurl.com/nds3a8
^^
I'm using the same with good success.
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Is Doug Oade in Tallahassee these days? I noticed my warm mod is coming from Tallahassee. Just curious.
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he mails from tally. still in thomasville.
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he mails from tally. still in thomasville.
thanks
Hey anyone know if the mic attenuation of -6,-12,-18 can only be used when going mic in and not line in? Gonna run the 661 for the first time tonight and I'm gonna use it for a SBD patch tonight.
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he mails from tally. still in thomasville.
thanks
Hey anyone know if the mic attenuation of -6,-12,-18 can only be used when going mic in and not line in? Gonna run the 661 for the first time tonight and I'm gonna use it for a SBD patch tonight.
Brent, I have the attenuation set to zero on mine in the preset for XLR line in, but I can't find in the manual if it's defeated for line in, and I have never tried to see if it does anything.
Just set the preset on yours to zero for line in anyway. Trust me, the hottest SBD signal you will typically get will have your gain knob between 5-7 on the dial. You don't need attenuation with the 661 to tape off the board, one of the reasons I picked this deck.
Good luck and shoot me a PM or call CK and get my number from him and call me before the show if you need to.
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Thanks Brad, that's what I figured. Looking forward to using it for the first time tonight.
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he mails from tally. still in thomasville.
thanks
Hey anyone know if the mic attenuation of -6,-12,-18 can only be used when going mic in and not line in? Gonna run the 661 for the first time tonight and I'm gonna use it for a SBD patch tonight.
I don't think the attenuation works on line in on any recorder I know of- just mic in.
It would be extremely simple to test on your 661 at home though if you have a battery box or preamp on hand. Just set up mics > pre (or battery box) > line in with attenuation at 0 and crank up the gain as high as possible. Talk into the mic and see where the meters are hitting. Then set the attenation to -18 and do the same thing. It should be extremely easy to tell if the meters are hitting about the same peaks or much lower. I assume they'd be about the same, meaning the attenuation does not work on line in.
If you don't have a pre or battery box, I suppose you could do the same test using the line out of a CD player or home stereo as the source.
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This topic needs to be locked and PT: 3 started. We are at 26 pages. ;)
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This topic needs to be locked and PT: 3 started. We are at 26 pages. ;)
Done. Thanks for the reminder.
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=139705.0