If memory serves me correctly, both pots stay active while the recorder is locked. That is why you can retract them by pressing the pot down.
From the manual:
Press and hold the backlight key then the tone key to bring up the front panel Button Lock Screen. Button lock prevents unintentional changing of settings or record status.The 744T displays any but- ton lock options enabled.
select the soft buttons to activate the appropriate button lock mode
There are three modes:
• Unlocked – all buttons are accessible and operate normally.
• Non-Transport Lock – All front panel controls are locked except the Record, Stop, Play, Re-
wind and Fast Forward.
• Lock All – All front panel keys are locked except the Record key. The Record key is kept ac-
tive so the user can initiate recording after entering this mode and enter cue markers. To stop recording in this mode, you must disengage the panel lock and hit the stop key.
While we're on the topic of 744T questions...
I'd like to utilize the hold option when recording so I can do anything stupid, like turn off the machine. Is there a front panel button that does this, and will I still be able to tweak the levels via the pots if the hold is on? Thanks in advance.