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Gear / Technical Help => Recording Gear => Topic started by: smuff on April 08, 2006, 02:41:01 PM
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Seen at this years Musikmesse! It looks interesting.
edit by Moke:
correcting product name in thread title.
as you were........
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What are the dimensions of this box? Have any other info?
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I am afraid not. I was hoping someone might know somthing? If I find out anything I will let you know.
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It appears to be the Fostex FR2 LE due out in July for around €700
http://www.tastenwelt.de/newsmeldung.0.html?&tx_ttnews%5Btt_news%5D=1905&tx_ttnews%5BbackPid%5D=140&cHash=f73cfe7636
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Thanks for that. It looks very interesting. I don't suppose you could translate some of the details as I cannot understand German? I think, that it records stereo /mono to CF card and disc cards and is 24/96Khz, but I am guessing. One buring question for me is does it have a digital in? Once again many thanks for the info.
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I don't know any details other than what I found by searching via Google. I had to blow up the photos and reverse them to read the reflection on the glass of the display cabinet. Such dedication. :D The information on the German site translates (courtesy of Google) as:
To the music fair Fostex presented the successor of the successful Field recorder Fr-2 - the Fr-2le. The new model permits photographs in stereo or mono on a Cf or Micro drive map in the standardized, to PC compatible BWF file format in the FAT32-Dateisystem. Both the linear data recording with 24 Bit/96 kHz and compressed recording formats are supported such as MP3. The taken up files automatically in the minutes pulse secured, for the datentransfer to the computer exists a US B interface. The Fr-2 LE is available starting from July for 700 euro.
Sounds interesting. Looks like another difficult buying decision coming up in the next few months. ^-^
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I agree. For me, if it has an SPDIF in and there are no major bugs, it looks ideal. But it is a 'wait and see'. Thanks for the translation by the way.
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At the moment it's not known whether or not it has a digital input but here are a few extra bits of info not yet mentioned:-
It will have a record buffer like the original.
Improved mic. pres.
Swtchable ALC - ALC/Limiter/Off
Wired remote control as standard
Editing functions
Internal mics
Read after write monitoring
4h battery life on an inexpensive rechargeable pack as well as AA cells.
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Improved mic pres? From what I read, Doug Oade liked the pres on the original FR2. Interesting. :)
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I agree. For me, if it has an SPDIF in and there are no major bugs, it looks ideal. But it is a 'wait and see'. Thanks for the translation by the way.
if all you need is S/PDIF input and no major bugs, why not just go with a Marantz PMD-671 or a Tascam HD-P2 ??
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Price. It looks like the Fostex might come in about £300 cheaper, and it is a bit smaller. I am considering the Microtrack now it can take 24/96, but I dont like the build quality. But I agree the Tascam is tempting maybe if one came up second hand.
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More info and pics taken directly from a brochure I received at NAB this week in Las Vegas on the new Fostex FR-2LE filed memory recorder:
-BWF (stereo) or MP3 recording on Type II Compactflash Card or micro Drive
-Approx. 8-hour operation possible with Tamiya RC3600HV, Ni-MH battery
-FAT32 file system. 16/24 bit, 44.1/48/88.4/96kHz
-USB 2.0 for high speed transfer to PC
-1 take = 1 file system to eliminate overwriting
-Pre Rec Buffer
-Built-in Editing Function
-Phantom Power
-ALC (OFF/ALC/LIMITER)
-Wired remote controller supplied as standard
-Read After Write (RAW) monitoring
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y206/hammerhorror/FR-2LE_sample1.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y206/hammerhorror/FR-2LE_sample2.jpg)
(http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y206/hammerhorror/fostex3.jpg)
They did not have an actual floor model to look at, just the brochure. I did ask the sales rep at the booth if it will have digital in, and he said that it would. But, I got the impression he didn't know what he was talking about, so I wouldn't hold your breath!
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I really hope this things pans out.. could be just what i am looking for
I have been waiting for Marantz to release a smaller version of the 671 ala the 660, with no luck
really want a small, xlr in, decent pre, 24 bit box that goes for under a grand
can't stand having a ton of money's worth of gear sitting in bag unused, but want a good 24 bit budget rig to use when I do get and and want to tape
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I agree. I hope this is just a demo model and in production they include a SPDIF I/O @24/96. I guess I will just have to keep waiting. Thanks for posting the update.
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I really hope this things pans out.. could be just what i am looking for
I have been waiting for Marantz to release a smaller version of the 671 ala the 660, with no luck
really want a small, xlr in, decent pre, 24 bit box that goes for under a grand
can't stand having a ton of money's worth of gear sitting in bag unused, but want a good 24 bit budget rig to use when I do get and and want to tape
Just looking at the XLR and RCA connectors, the 2LE looks to be over half the size of the 2. Which would put it around the size of a 722 or 660. Certainly, looks to be the length (approx 8 inches) and width (approx 5 inches) of the 660. Just thicker, like the 722. If this thing sounds as good as the 2 (according to Doug), the 2LE will be a homerun. Lets hope the price is somewhere near $1,000. :)
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My guess is that Fostex will continue to sell the FR-2 to compete with the Marantz PMD671 and Tascam HD-P2. The FR-2LE will be positioned as a competitor for the Marantz PMD660. The FR-2LE is about the same size as the PMD660, and has similar features. I don't think it will include digital input, since the target market (ENG) doesn't require it.
Since the FR-2LE has 24/96 and potentially better preamps, I'm guessing its price will be higher than the PMD660, but less than the PMD671. In the USA marketplace, that puts the street price of the FR-2LE between $500 and $900, so I'll guess list of $900, street $700. Fostex will sell a lot more FR-2LE at $700 than at $1000, where they will be in direct competition with the PMD671 and HD-P2.
Flintstone
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I think the 2LE will compete directly with the P2 and 671. 24 bit vs 24 bit. Plus, the FR2 is a beast and energy hungry. This new model cures both of those problems, I assume. Leaner and meaner.
It would be a bummer if it didn't had digi in. But won't be a deal kill for me. I wonder what external voltage it will require. I'm interested in this bad boy.
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Taking a 2nd look at those pictures, one picture has the headphone jack in the front. Another has the headphone jack on the side, next to the RCAs. My bet is the headphone jack will remain in the front and the digi-in will go next to the RCAs.
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B&H Photo is taking pre-orders. $499.00
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=details&kw=FOFR2LE&is=REG&Q=&O=productlist&sku=432017
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B&H Photo is taking pre-orders. $499.00
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?A=details&kw=FOFR2LE&is=REG&Q=&O=productlist&sku=432017
wow $499
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yeah but wont have digi in.. so thats why so cheap
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That looks like a digi in in the photo up top.......they could possibly be rca ins r and l, however they are both yellow which is ussally the collor use for a digi in, where as red and white are used for analog in.....
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I would think this would pretty much kill the 660. Looks to be around the same size, same price and does 24bit... Pretty nice. I wonder if Oade will do any mods.
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That looks like a digi in in the photo up top.......they could possibly be rca ins r and l, however they are both yellow which is ussally the collor use for a digi in, where as red and white are used for analog in.....
i sure hope your right.. but i just think thats way too cheap to have digi..
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Frankly, it should be cheaper to do a digi-in bit bucket rather than designing high quality mic pres and analog input. Nevertheless, this doesn't look to promising:
http://www.hhb.co.uk/hhb/uk/products/largeimage.asp?ID=2412
Looks like the RCAs are L-R analog outputs, not digital in and digital out. :(
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Frankly, it should be cheaper to do a digi-in bit bucket rather than designing high quality mic pres and analog input. Nevertheless, this doesn't look to promising:
http://www.hhb.co.uk/hhb/uk/products/largeimage.asp?ID=2412
Looks like the RCAs are L-R analog outputs, not digital in and digital out. :(
umm to design maybe.. ala the microtracker..
to put in to production something that functions properly... not so fast...
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+T to Spyder9 for making this discovery.
Outside the Musikmesse news item on their Japanese language web pages, I don't see this recorder mentioned anywhere by Fostex. So the actual release date may still be a few months off.
$499 is the price most reputable dealers post for the Marantz PMD660, so it appears that Fostex wants to compete directly with Marantz. With 24/96 and potentially better preamps, the FR2 LE is looking good! Can't tell yet about digital input.
Flintstone
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I would think this would pretty much kill the 660. Looks to be around the same size, same price and does 24bit... Pretty nice. I wonder if Oade will do any mods.
Its a little bit thicker than a 660. Probably by a couple of inches. Makes crotchability a little bit dicey, but should be able to do. Definitely within the same length and width of the 660. To add, I hope this thing can be powered by AA rechargeables.
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[Its a little bit thicker than a 660. Probably by a couple of inches. Makes crotchability a little bit dicey, but should be able to do. Definitely within the same length and width of the 660. To add, I hope this thing can be powered by AA rechargeables.
So Dan, when are you selling your P2? >:D <--- Rick eyeing it carefully
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[Its a little bit thicker than a 660. Probably by a couple of inches. Makes crotchability a little bit dicey, but should be able to do. Definitely within the same length and width of the 660. To add, I hope this thing can be powered by AA rechargeables.
So Dan, when are you selling your P2? >:D <--- Rick eyeing it carefully
Nah. Just thinking of another stealth box. I've been waiting for this to come out since April. Go get that P2! :)
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Fostex FR-2LE, a new field recorder, available soon
At the MusikMesse trade show in Germany last April, Fostex announced a
new field recorder called the FR-2LE. This is a smaller and cheaper
companion to the FR-2, a digital recorder introduced about 2 years ago.
The Fostex Japan web site has a couple of photos and a brief
description of the new machine:
http://www.fostex.jp/topic/musikmesse2006/musikmesse_review.htm
B&H Photo Video is the first web site I've seen to start taking
pre-production orders for the FR-2LE. The B&H price is $499. There's
no indication of the date when the FR-2LE will be shipped.
The new machine has many pro features at this very reasonable price.
Here's what I have been able to glean from several web sources.
Fostex FR-2LE
--compact dimensions: roughly 5" x 8" x 2.5"
--weight: unknown, I'm guessing somewhat less than 30oz, including
batteries
--2 channel audio recorder
mic inputs accept XLR and 1/4" phone plug
48V phantom power is available
--Recording controls and level meters well placed for use while the
FR-2LE hangs from your shoulder, or sits in a gear bag.
--CompactFlash memory card
FAT32 file system support, so 8GB card will work OK
A/D quantization at rates up to 24/96
recordings are saved in BWF and MP3 file formats
--Pre-roll buffer (no info on how long)
--RC3600HV rechargeable NiMH battery pack provides 8 hours of operation
--USB 2.0 port for file transfers
--Start of recording always opens a new file with unique name, so no
possibility of over-writing an existing recording
--Simple non-destructive editor lets you specify in and out points
without modifying the original recording
--limiter and auto level control functions, turned off by default
--read after write monitoring: Allows you to play the file from the
Compactflash as you continue to record. This lets you confirm that the
recording is OK.
--Remote operation via a controller attached by wire. Unclear what
functions are available via the remote. This could be useful for
unattended monitoring. Attention, Gene Dorcas!
The FR2 LE is designed to compete with the Marantz PMD660. The Fostex
FR2 will continue to compete with the Marantz PMD671 and Tascam HD-P2
I've read reports that the preamps in the $1300 FR-2 are quieter than
the PMD671 ($900) and HD-P2 ($1000). It will be very interesting to
hear the quality of the preamps in the FR-2LE! At this point, nobody
knows.
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Hey, bdasilva, when you copy information, at least say where you found it!
This message was first posted to the naturerecordists group on Yahoo yesterday.
Flintstone
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The LE is 1/2 inch bigger than the 660. The 660 is 4.5 x 1.9 x 7.2
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John Willett on Simplydv.co.uk wrote :
>The original FR-2 has good mic. pre-amps and the information I have had from the Fostex distrbutor in the UK is that the pre-amps on the FRII-LE will be even better.
>The LE version also has a "read after write" function so that you know the recording is OK.
>The battery life is now 4-hours from a rechargeabe.
>It will NOT replace the original FR-2.
>The LE does not have a digital in/out, one of the compromises for making it smaller.
>My only complaint about the original FR-2 was the short battery life - 2-hours in practice. But I have been told that the rechargeable that is used for the LE will be OK on the FR-2 plugged in externally.
>I hope this Helps.
>I am expecting my review sample of the FRII-LE next month and will post my findings when I have had a good play with it.
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So does this run on internal AA rechargeable batteries or their own rechargebale battery?
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Thanks for the information. I am gutted about the Digi I/O such a shame.
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I think the "RC3600HV rechargeable NiMH battery pack" is a sled made by Sanyo containing six sub-C NiMH cells ("sub" means they are a little shorter and a little smaller in diameter.) This setup provides 7.2V, 3600mAh, and is commonly used in radio controlled cars.
Six standard "C" batteries should fit in the space occupied by the sled, but I have no information that says they will in the FR-2LE.
Flintstone
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As found on the Nature Recordedists Group.... (Sorry)
http://www.fostex.com/support/pdf/fostex/fr2/fr2_prelim_info.pdf
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Looks like this thing will be available for full distribution in September. Some small batches will be shipped next month to European distributors.
http://www.soundonsound.com/forum/showflat.php?session=9d0a5b5f7e20cf8b9ec255f8bbdc90e7&Cat=&Number=281069&Main=280323
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That looks like a digi in in the photo up top.......they could possibly be rca ins r and l, however they are both yellow which is ussally the collor use for a digi in, where as red and white are used for analog in.....
i sure hope your right.. but i just think thats way too cheap to have digi..
I think those are analog outputs. Underneath, I read "An(something)" (I assume "Analog") under the left RCA, and "Out" under the right. And above the left I read "L mono" and the right "R".
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so far, this looks to be what I am looking for...
a XLR in w/phantom, small 24 bit box w/ decent looking meters
for a reasonable price
just hope it takes 8gb cards well
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As found on the Nature Recordedists Group.... (Sorry)
http://www.fostex.com/support/pdf/fostex/fr2/fr2_prelim_info.pdf
This pdf file says this has Digital input and output
Digital input via SPDIF / AES EBU
Digital output via SPDIF / AES EBU
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I *think* that pdf is for the original fr2, not the fr2le
Yeah, the front faces don't match up - FR2LE images on the SoundonSound website v. FR2 diagram in the PDF.
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As found on the Nature Recordedists Group.... (Sorry)
http://www.fostex.com/support/pdf/fostex/fr2/fr2_prelim_info.pdf
This pdf file says this has Digital input and output
Digital input via SPDIF / AES EBU
Digital output via SPDIF / AES EBU
I *think* that pdf is for the original fr2, not the fr2le
Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Why no digi in?! How hard is that to add and make room for?
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B&H will be getting it in 2-4 weeks.
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Sorry if these pics have already been posted. Didn't see them after a quick look.
(http://www.musik-service.de/images/Layout/Pixel0.gif)
If Doug can do his magic on this box to make it sound as good as the FR2, I can run line-in with an external pre, and the ADC is at or near the V3, this is going to be a sweet box. If it sounds that good after Doug mods it, might not need a V3 at all. Still want to be able to run the M148 in front though. And, it's stealthable taboot.
edit: I can't get this pic to link. Click on this link & then click on the image to view the large size.
http://www.musik-service.de/fostex-fr-2-le-prx395756334de.aspx (http://www.musik-service.de/fostex-fr-2-le-prx395756334de.aspx)
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internetvideomag.com article. Gives clearer details on this unit.
http://www.internetvideomag.com/articles_1111.htm
Fostex FR-2LE Stereo Field Memory Recorder is the little brother to Fostex’s popular FR-2 digital field recorder. The FR2-LE records Broadcast Wave Format (BWF) or MP3 files to affordable type II CompactFlash or Microdrive cards, at up to 24-bit/96kHz resolution. It features powerful on-board editing functions and a USB 2.0 port for high-speed file transfers to PC editing suites. Time stamping of .wav or MP3 files is provided; allowing for easy time alignment of audio files in Audio/Video software workstations.
This easy-to-use unit is equipped with two Mic/Line inputs (with phantom power) on Neutrik combo jacks, stereo RCA analog outputs and a 1/8" stereo headphone output with level control. The FR-2LE’s flexible powering options include: (4) "AA" batteries or a 12V DC input. The top panel has a large LCD display and transport and menu keys, & the front panel adds Rec/Standby controls, LED Metering and input trims. A wired remote control comes standard with every unit.
The Fostex FR-2LE’s combination of pro features and low $499.00 price makes this versatile recorder a top choice for Electronic News Gathering, location sound and live music applications.
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Oade Brothers have it listed on their site! I informed Doug about the LE a couple of weeks ago. He wasn't aware of it. Sent him an email of our thread. Now, it looks like he's all over it. Yeah! ;D
http://www.oade.com/
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Oade Brothers have it listed on their site! I informed Doug about the LE a couple of weeks ago. He wasn't aware of it. Sent him an email of our thread. Now, it looks like he's all over it. Yeah! ;D
http://www.oade.com/
Sweet. Now we just have to hope it is great out of the box, and he can work his magic on it to make it even better.
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Sweet. Now we just have to hope it is great out of the box, and he can work his magic on it to make it even better.
If only he could add a digital in/out. So I guess i'm still waiting for the perfect small bit bucket..................... :angry2:
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B & H now states on their site http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=432017&is=REG&addedTroughType=search (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=432017&is=REG&addedTroughType=search) that the approximate arrival date for this unit is not until December ??? I wonder if this means a delay across the board?
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B & H now states on their site http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=432017&is=REG&addedTroughType=search (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=432017&is=REG&addedTroughType=search) that the approximate arrival date for this unit is not until December ??? I wonder if this means a delay across the board?
Maybe they are adding a digi I/O ::)
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I bet they're working on improving the AA battery powering. It has been big brother's (FR-2) bane. When the FR2LE first debuted at Musikmesse in March of this year, the exhibitors released info that the FR2LE could run 8 hours with a Tamiya RC3600HV, Ni-MH battery (RC battery pack). No mention of run-times for internal AA batteries. Since then, some info has been released that the LE can run on AAs. Nothing else. No press releases either. Internal powering has to be their main issue right now. I can't see releasing the LE with the same powering issues as the FR2. It would be a marketing disaster if they didn't address that. Mentioning a RC battery pack is a red flag. That's odd when compared to their competitors' internal powering solutions (AA's).
If they're adding digi-in, I wonder if it requires a complete redesign. Anybody know?
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Where did you hear that Moke? Got a link?
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Its the FR-2LE. The thread was started with the wrong number. Can you fix it?
Thanks for the link. December would be fine with me. I have a slew of shows lined up this fall. I can wait till Xmas for a new toy. :)
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...Oade site now has it listed for December 2006.
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bump....
any news?
shipping when?.....is the Dec date solid?
still looking towards this as a small/budget minded/all-in-1 24 bit box (as I cross my fingers)
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Delayed till January '07. ::) See John Willett's most recent remarks at the bottom
http://www.soundonsound.com/forum/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=MRT&Number=280323&fpart=
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Delayed till January '07. ::) See John Willett's most recent remarks at the bottom
http://www.soundonsound.com/forum/showflat.php?Cat=&Board=MRT&Number=280323&fpart=
Disappointing still that there is no digi input.
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This will be a hot item: those who want an all-in-one 24 bit box that yields a small footprint. And it will be way smaller than the P2 and the 671.
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Apologies for the title of the Thread only got your PM after you changed it and then I got confused. I will leave well alone from now on. Sorry to all for the confusion.
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First live look at the Fostex, from the October 06 AES show
http://www.gearwire.com/fostexfr2le.html
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First live look at the Fostex, from the October 06 AES show
http://www.gearwire.com/fostexfr2le.html
Nothing new revealed, but good to see that it actually exists. :laugh:
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I saw this at AES. It uses a pretty big battery pack. The Fostex rep claimed up to 8 hours of battery life. The batteries used are the same kind used in some RC cars I think. The batteries made the unit feel pretty heavy.
The unit is about the same size and weight as a 722. Overall I really liked it, and at $500, that's a great price.
I agree that it's too bad it doesn't have digi in.
Overall, I'd say this unit was 2nd runner up. This is the rundown of what I thought were the best units at AES:
* Best in Show: Korg MR-1 and MR-1000: Sexy!
* Runner up - Sound Devices 7 series: These units just scream quality. If money is no object and
you need something now, these are by far the coolest units. Out of my price range though...
* Second Runner up: Fostex FR2-LE - Cool unit overall..
* Better luck next time: Sony PCM-D1 - Really cool and I hear these sound awesome. But give me digi in and xlr ins! Or lower the price...
* Zoom/Samson was not at show, too bad, I really wanted to check out the H4.
I didn't really look closely at the Tascam and original FR-2. My first impression of these units are, they are
too big! Give me something smaller.
Anyhow, I'm saving my money for a Korg. I might give the H4 a try in the meantime since it's pretty cheap and could make use of it's daw and guitar effects capabilities. Meanwhile, I'm sticking to my MT.
It's really nice there are so many choices out there now. Wasn't too long ago there wasn't really much
available in 24bit recorders. I'm sure the fr2-le will do well.
Mandoman
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Mandoman,
How did the 8 hour battery pack attach to the FR2LE?
Does it fit internally? Fasten securely externally? Or
just connect to the DC input by a cable?
Did the Fostex folks give any information about ship
date or MSRP?
Flintstine
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If you look at the video, you can catch the Fostex guy closing the door on the battery compartment. Battery pack goes inside. That is one huge door on that puppy.
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Mandoman,
How did the 8 hour battery pack attach to the FR2LE?
Does it fit internally? Fasten securely externally? Or
just connect to the DC input by a cable?
Did the Fostex folks give any information about ship
date or MSRP?
Flintstine
The battery pack loads into the top of the unit I believe. It is
definately an internal battery. It can be recharged through the unit.
It is user servicable, so swapping batteries is not a problem.
The rep. said Dec or Jan ship I think. I don't recall msrp,
but people on this thread are saying $500 street.
Mandoman
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Meanwhile, I'm sticking to my MT.
What's your MT? Sharp MD?
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Meanwhile, I'm sticking to my MT.
What's your MT? Sharp MD?
M-Audio MicroTrack 2496
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any News on this box floating around yet?
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Nothing yet. I did a search on Google today. If they plan on selling it in January, I bet they make an announcement next week or two. I figure they'll need 30-45 days of good marketing to get it off the ground.
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This unit is looking very promising. I wonder if doug will offer the "ACM" type mod eventually and have it be competitively priced with his ACM 660 or just slightly more. If that ever happens, count me in! By then, I'll have the cash.
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Anyone here any new news? It's January....
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Looks like its been pushed back till Spring of '07, according to Fostex' Japan site. Which means, it won't hit the US shelves until probably late spring, early summer.
Here's the Google search I did. Click "translate this page". And you'll see that they expect it out in Spring '07.
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fostex.jp%2FTOP%2Ftop.html&btnG=Search
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Apparently it's being launched right now at NAMM:
http://www.fostexinternational.com/cgi-bin/viewnews.cgi?id=EEyApuupApLaldxIwB&tmpl=viewnews_pro_head
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3 online stores claim they'll have the LE in stock today (1/26/07). $499.00 shipped
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Fostex-FR2LE-High-Definition-Field-Recorder?sku=240346&src=3WFRWXX
http://www.giardinelli.com/product/Fostex-FR2LE-HighDefinition-Field-Recorder?sku=240346&src=AWFRWXX
http://www.musician.com/product/Fostex-FR2LE-HighDefinition-Field-Recorder?sku=240346&src=GWFRWXX
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3 online stores claim they'll have the LE in stock today (1/26/07). $499.00 shipped
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Fostex-FR2LE-High-Definition-Field-Recorder?sku=240346&src=3WFRWXX
http://www.giardinelli.com/product/Fostex-FR2LE-HighDefinition-Field-Recorder?sku=240346&src=AWFRWXX
http://www.musician.com/product/Fostex-FR2LE-HighDefinition-Field-Recorder?sku=240346&src=GWFRWXX
it says 2 hours on AA batteries
looks like external power will be a MUST
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3 online stores claim they'll have the LE in stock today (1/26/07). $499.00 shipped
Hmm - from the URLs, those 3 online stores look like the same outfit...
it says 2 hours on AA batteries
looks like external power will be a MUST
Or a spare pair of AAs ?
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500 is not to horrible
to bad it has the same pre amps as the FR2 and no digi in
if Oade or others come up with a mod then this could be a really interesting little box
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500 is not to horrible
to bad it has the same pre amps as the FR2 and no digi in
if Oade or others come up with a mod then this could be a really interesting little box
The stock pre amps will still be better than a MT or R-09 from what I've been told.
I wonder what it would be like with a 20db pad in signal chain and the stock pre's....
Overload is the issue at concert levels and the machine is supposed to be pretty transparent.
I may just try that this spring.
Does anyone have dimensions?
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500 is not to horrible
to bad it has the same pre amps as the FR2 and no digi in
if Oade or others come up with a mod then this could be a really interesting little box
The stock pre amps will still be better than a MT or R-09 from what I've been told.
I wonder what it would be like with a 20db pad in signal chain and the stock pre's....
Overload is the issue at concert levels and the machine is supposed to be pretty transparent.
I may just try that this spring.
Does anyone have dimensions?
now expected 2/8/07...we'll see...
http://youtube.com/watch?v=hWoW8pLFB64 (http://youtube.com/watch?v=hWoW8pLFB64)
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we may see this thing available in April... http://www.fostex.com/mercuryboard/index.php?a=topic&t=2961 (http://www.fostex.com/mercuryboard/index.php?a=topic&t=2961)
The first production run (a small one, I understand) will be later this month.
I should be getting a machine from this batch for a review to be published in a UK broadcasting magazine.
The first main production run is planned to be late March and the FR-2LE should be generally available from April.
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Anyone notice that it records in either BWF or MP3 format. Well that's one way to get around auto-splits.
Also notice this line: Approx. 8 hours operation with off-the-shelf Tamiya RC3600HV, Ni-MH battery
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The information posted in this link
http://www.fostex.com/mercuryboard/index.php?a=topic&t=2961
appears to be copied verbatim from the Musician's Friend
web page about the FR-2LE.
Unfortunately many of the specs on this page refer to the FR-2
rather than the FR-2LE. I think that where they had no
information for Fostex, the Musican's Friend folks just used
the FR-2 spec sheet. For example, check the dimensions
and the Signal to Noise ratio numbers -- both copied from the
FR-2 page. (Sure would be nice if the FR-2LE's pre is as good
as big brother FR-2!)
My conclusion is to take all specs with a healthy dose of skepticism
until they appear on an official Fostex web page.
-
so this is slated to come out this week I believe..
still very curious about this..
fingers crossed that the stock pre amps are passable... If I make the jump I'll go Oade with the hope mods appear..
it appears this only records in BWF format or MP3
http://www.oade.com/digital_recorders/hard_disc_recorders/FR-2LE.html
I am unfamiliar with BWF. Can it be edited/converted to .wav easily?
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it looks like these might be available: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=330100870029
note the "please allow 7-10 days for shipment" in the description however :hmmm:
for the first round...I would rather use a known retailer...
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Sorry all, I forgot to post what I got from Doug in the mail last week regarding this unit:
Hi!
I actually got a call from the Rep last week and he told me they would ship toward the end of this month so I am hopeful. The price went up by 100.00 so it seems what ever delayed it was expensive. I am thinking they went the extra mile...OK, I am HOPING they did !
take care...Doug
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Sorry all, I forgot to post what I got from Doug in the mail last week regarding this unit:
Hi!
I actually got a call from the Rep last week and he told me they would ship toward the end of this month so I am hopeful. The price went up by 100.00 so it seems what ever delayed it was expensive. I am thinking they went the extra mile...OK, I am HOPING they did !
take care...Doug
Here's to hoping! can't wait to start hearing more about this thing in the field... I have my doubts that it could be an ACM 671 killer as far as all-in-ones go (forgetting about digi I/O)... but time will tell.
-
The price went up by 100.00
:o
Not in the UK it didn't - it's selling at about £100 LESS than I first heard.
The UK shop price is £325 +VAT (Studiospares).
It looks great - I have the User Manual and I'm now waiting for the machine itself.
John
-
£325 is equivalent to $635, not including VAT. That's a little more
than the $600 plus shipping offered by several USA retailers.
I think the FR-2LE price went up because the value of the US dollar
is at a 2 year low. The dollar was down 11.5% compared to the Euro
in 2006, and down 50% in the last five years.
Flintstone
-
Dunno if a link to this video has been posted before, you can get an idea on the real size of the machine http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWoW8pLFB64
A bit dissapointing to me... Bulkier, and maybe heavier than I imagined
-
Dunno if a link to this video has been posted before, you can get an idea on the real size of the machine http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWoW8pLFB64
A bit dissapointing to me... Bulkier, and maybe heavier than I imagined
Yes, its much bigger than I had anticipated. Not exactly stealth-sized. The lack of a digital i/o is really a deal-breaker, though.
-
Dunno if a link to this video has been posted before, you can get an idea on the real size of the machine http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hWoW8pLFB64
A bit dissapointing to me... Bulkier, and maybe heavier than I imagined
Yes, its much bigger than I had anticipated. Not exactly stealth-sized. The lack of a digital i/o is really a deal-breaker, though.
Dam that is big.....hhhhmmmmm...I'm still waiting for the right stealth recorder. I am wondering when the IKEY pro comes out?
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With the current offerings in the compact flash / small HD recorder who is this now marketed to? Sound effect engineers? Us? Film?
I just can't see how thing box is anything but a year or more late to market and that's it. Many products introduced in the last year appear to at the very least be equal with what this box is doing and in some cases other products exceed the Fostex at the same (guesstimated) price range.
-
Full specs, at last:
http://www.scvlondononline.co.uk/acatalog/fr2lepop.html
Can't believe it, that thing is HUGE, way larger than PMD671! Useless to me
-
Full specs, at last:
http://www.scvlondononline.co.uk/acatalog/fr2lepop.html
Can't believe it, that thing is HUGE, way larger than PMD671! Useless to me
Wait a minute, I'm confused! Getting mixed info here. This is straight from the Fostex International website and shows it as 57(H) x 206(W) x 132(D), about the size of a SD 722 but a tad longer (from the .pdf file below):
http://www.fostexinternational.com/pdf/fr2le_broch.pdf
http://www.fostexinternational.com/docs/pro_products/fr2le.shtml
http://www.fostex.com/mercuryboard/index.php?a=topic&t=2180&f=22&min=15&num=15
So, which is it? Who knows. There's been so much back & forth with this unit that who knows what the heck is up with it. I can only imagine how irritated folks like B&H are when their latest catalog has the FR2-LE printed and listed as available :P
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The larger dimensions are for the FR-2, not the FR-2LE.
Even so, the FR-2LE is not a small recorder. It's about
the size of a Sound Devices 722.
I think it's amusing that people say the FR-2LE is too big,
but don't think twice about attaching an external battery
and external preamp to a smaller recorder.
No, nobody will mistake a FR-2LE for a cell phone, and
you'll look funny with one stuffed down your pants. But
a larger recorder offers stronger construction, controls that
are easy to use with adult-size fingers, meters you can
actually see, built-in XLR jacks that can take some abuse
without breaking, and enough battery to run for hours while
providing 48V phantom power.
Flintstone
-
The larger dimensions are for the FR-2, not the FR-2LE. Even so, the FR-2LE is not a small recorder. It's about the size of a Sound Devices 722.
I think it's amusing that people say the FR-2LE is too big, but don't think twice about attaching an external battery and external preamp to a smaller recorder.
No, nobody will mistake a FR-2LE for a cell phone, and you'll look funny with one stuffed down your pants. But a larger recorder offers stronger construction, controls that are easy to use with adult-size fingers, meters you can actually see, built-in XLR jacks that can take some abuse without breaking, and enough battery to run for hours while providing 48V phantom power.
Flintstone
My thoughts exactly.
+T
-
The larger dimensions are for the FR-2, not the FR-2LE.
Even so, the FR-2LE is not a small recorder. It's about
the size of a Sound Devices 722.
I think it's amusing that people say the FR-2LE is too big,
but don't think twice about attaching an external battery
and external preamp to a smaller recorder.
No, nobody will mistake a FR-2LE for a cell phone, and
you'll look funny with one stuffed down your pants. But
a larger recorder offers stronger construction, controls that
are easy to use with adult-size fingers, meters you can
actually see, built-in XLR jacks that can take some abuse
without breaking, and enough battery to run for hours while
providing 48V phantom power.
Flintstone
But this thing has no features when compared to other units in its target market. The lack of a digital in (coax or aes) for starters is a problem. Fostex seems to have really dropped the ball on this one.
-
The larger dimensions are for the FR-2, not the FR-2LE.
Even so, the FR-2LE is not a small recorder. It's about
the size of a Sound Devices 722.
OK then, I'm relieved, sorry that I posted the wrong info :-X!
Actually I dont stealth, but try to replace my SD Mixpre + R09 by an equivalent all-in-one box (as regards quality/size/weight). Would be perfect if just 200 mm wide
Cheers
-
I think Fostex designed this recorder for ENG, not for use as a bit bucket. The competition at this price point is the Marantz PMD660. I think it's likely that the FR-2LE will have less self-noise than the PMD660, and won't brickwall the way the PMD660 does (Oade mod units excluded, of course).
Fostex didn't add a digital input to the FR-2LE because they wanted to keep the price reasonably low, and they already make a recorder with digital input, the FR-2.
If you're in the market for a recorder with digital input, consider the Marantz PMD671. It's on sale at Martel Electronics, 714-692-6690, for around $700.
-
April Musicians Friend catalog shows this at $499, even though it
shows $599 on their website. Anyone interested in this deck might
try and push for the catalog price. Catalog item# is 240346
Good luck.
-
wow, if you want one stock, this (B&H) is the place to jump on one, looks like they haven't (yet) raised their prices a hundred bucks like other places have
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Fostex-FR2LE-High-Definition-Field-Recorder?sku=240346
who's going first? ;)
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wow, if you want one stock, this (B&H) is the place to jump on one, looks like they haven't (yet) raised their prices a hundred bucks like other places have
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Fostex-FR2LE-High-Definition-Field-Recorder?sku=240346
who's going first? ;)
They might match the B&H price.... They say "Guaranteed Lowest Price!"
I'm waiting to see if oade will mode these... If he does I might go back to the 2 channel world. :hmmm:
EDIT: Someone should e-mail Doug :P
-
EDIT: Some I should am going to e-mail Doug :P
Fixed that for you, Rick. ;D
-
Just for the record:
It took Fostex 12 months to officially release the thing ........after we heard about (April 8, 2006). :o All I can say is, it better be worth a damn. ::)
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,62698.0.html
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Anyone have one of these yet?
-
Anyone have one of these yet?
no Dan, but i'm thisclose to saying what the heck and just buying one. gotta blaze a trail once in a while, you know? :P
oh yeah, and a happy birthday to ya too!
+t
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Anyone have one of these yet?
no Dan, but i'm thisclose to saying what the heck and just buying one. gotta blaze a trail once in a while, you know? :P
oh yeah, and a happy birthday to ya too!
+t
Thanks keef!!! Backatcha! ;D Now get out there and buy one these puppies! Before I do....... >:D
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A guy out here at Skywalker Sound apparently bought one and has said that the pre's are sweet. He said that the build is really solid as well. That's all I've been able to find out so far. Also the Musician's Friend price is apparently below what they are supposed to be selling it for, so that's probably the lowest price you'll find and I bet it'll be gone soon.
*edit* ummm, looks like I just bought one from MF!!! Sort of an impulse buy...looking forward to playing with it!
So does anyone actually own one of these yet? I'm curious to hear some first impressions.
-
Not sure if someone posted this, but the manual is now available to download
http://www.fostex.com/support/pdf/fostex/fr2le/fr2le_owners_manual.pdf
I sure like the ideal the Tamiya battery connector.
-
Just looked through the manual, this thing looks like a nice box. Wonder if the pres can handle amplified music without a mod? Jmos, thanks for taking the plunge, very curious to hear some samples :headphones: Let's hope Doug can work his magic on this...
-
Just looked through the manual, this thing looks like a nice box. Wonder if the pres can handle amplified music without a mod? Jmos, thanks for taking the plunge, very curious to hear some samples :headphones: Let's hope Doug can work his magic on this...
I'll post some samples once I have it and can do some tests. The guy at Skywalker Sound that I mentioned is loving the pre's, and using it with no other gear in front...he records a variety of things, but probably never PA recording.
I won't be out at any shows any time soon, but I can crank up the system at the theatre I work at and record some room samples.
Hopefully this week!
;D
-
I sent Doug an e-mail and he did comfirm that he will be doing ACM and T mods on these units
-
I sent Doug an e-mail and he did comfirm that he will be doing ACM and T mods on these units
That's great news! I wonder how much cheaper than the ACM 671 these will be... hmmm....
-
sweetness, can't wait:
http://www.oade.com/digital_recorders/hard_disc_recorders/FR-2LE_upgrades.html (http://www.oade.com/digital_recorders/hard_disc_recorders/FR-2LE_upgrades.html)
I think this will be my new toy paired with some full-sized DPA cardioids. For the price it looks tough to beat for analog all-in-one. Reading through the manual (pages 59 & 105) there does seem to be one quirk regarding the maximum file size, which is user-selectable at either 2 or 4 gigs:
<Note>: During recording, the recorder automatically quits recording and stops if the
file size reaches the maximum file size. Note that if you use a memory card whose size is
less than the maximum file size, the recorder stops recording at the point when there is
no more recording space left.
It says nothing of auto-splitting a new seamless track once the max size is reached and there is still memory on the card. Hopefully this can be fixed with firmware...
-
"my 671 will make a seamless transition to another file after making a 4b one and i'm betting the fr2le will also since the original fr2 did."
Unfortunately, the FR-2LE just saves the file and stops when the 4GB limit is reached. Recording at 16/48, 4GB holds a track that is 6 hours long.
One point that bears repeating is that the FR-2LE saves the recording every 60 seconds. That is, the file system updates the pointers to where the recording is stored on the Compactflash card.
The value of this comes when the recorder accidentally stops without properly saving the file. This happens most often when the battery is exhausted, or the cable to an external battery is accidentally pulled out. Under these circumstances, most recorders will lose the entire recording. The FR-2LE will lose the last 60 seconds, but the recording before this point will be intact.
Flintstone
-
My FR-2LE has arrived and I will be doing some sample tracks soon!
First impressions are that it is a solid little box. I like the feel of it. Not sure how I feel about getting it mod'ed...
-
run it hot and heavy bro. im uppin for mine soon, if it can phantom and pre without smokin.
-
The value of this comes when the recorder accidentally stops without properly saving the file. This happens most often when the battery is exhausted, or the cable to an external battery is accidentally pulled out. Under these circumstances, most recorders will lose the entire recording. The FR-2LE will lose the last 60 seconds, but the recording before this point will be intact.
Flintstone
The Tascam HD-P2 can do that too. I ran out of juice once at a show, before it powered down, the P2 saved the entire track. Nothing new there.
-
My FR-2LE has arrived and I will be doing some sample tracks soon!
First impressions are that it is a solid little box. I like the feel of it. Not sure how I feel about getting it mod'ed...
Anymore thoughts about the unit?
-
looks like this box is a dream for nature recordists (like me) due to the quiet preamp, but no idea on how it will deal with high pressure sounds (?). One guy tells me it brickwalled when fed the line level signal from a Shure FP24 preamp (equivalent to a MP2). Hope this is any use.
oh, a couple test files:
http://freesound.iua.upf.edu/samplesViewSingle.php?id=34524
http://freesound.iua.upf.edu/samplesViewSingle.php?id=34581
-
There's a web site that reports recorder preamp self noise and
input clipping level. FR-2LE did very well. See the discussion here
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=84350.0
Flintstone
-
Looks like the price at Musician's Friend is back up to $599 from $499.
:-[
bummer.
I'm liking the box so far. Haven't had a lot of time to get through all of it's little quirks yet, but the first recordings I've made sound very good.
I've found the headphone amp to be more than adequate.
Anyone else have one of these yet?
-
B&H Photo Video started the $499 price point. Now they're back
to $599. I suspect that Fostex got on the phone and told
everybody to advertise the $599 price.
Since the FR-2LE is new and in relatively short supply, I think
it will be a while before we see much competition on price.
Sweetwater offers free shipping, and a 30 day return policy,
so they may be the best choice for the FR-2LE right now.
Flintstone
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fyi this is my recent correspondence with Doug:
Hi Doug, thanks for your note last week regarding FR-2LE availability. As I see your mods won't be available until June, how does the unit sound right out of the box for music recording? Any caveats such as brickwalling or overloading? How do the stock preamps sound? I've read a few good reports but none regarding live music recording. I'm debating whether to grab one now and then send back later for the mods, or just wait until next month.
If you have any prelimary findings regarding these questions please let me know what you think when you have a minute.
Thanks!
Keith
Hi! It is not bad but uses the same op amps as the M1, TCD100 and Stock 660 among others use. 30 cent JRC 2122s and JRC 2115s occupy the signal path. They also use low grade caps in the signal path and lots of them. In short, it measures well by 1930's audio standards (THD+N) but sounds like cloudy coffee. I think it will be ok for interviews and the like but not so good for "ear critical" applications like music, ambient/FX and nature sounds. The good thing is it has room to work with so I know what I can do with it. So far no bad news in users reports or signs of early failure or manufacturing problems so I feel good that it will be a solid performer. If it had Digi I/O it would be a giant killer!
Peace...Doug
-
I think Fostex designed this recorder for ENG, not for use as a bit bucket. The competition at this price point is the Marantz PMD660. I think it's likely that the FR-2LE will have less self-noise than the PMD660, and won't brickwall the way the PMD660 does (Oade mod units excluded, of course).
Fostex didn't add a digital input to the FR-2LE because they wanted to keep the price reasonably low, and they already make a recorder with digital input, the FR-2.
If you're in the market for a recorder with digital input, consider the Marantz PMD671. It's on sale at Martel Electronics, 714-692-6690, for around $700.
LMAO! +t bro. right on the nose. and thanks for the other avisoft info, nice.
so i ordered mine from oade on tuesday and its on the ground in utah now! 200 for a super mod is totally ripping'
after i test the sucker, stock, behind some mk41's at bonnaroo, ill get on to sending it back.
doug oade has an extremely discerning ear, props for sure but the coffee cant be anymore cloudy than most stock A/D units under 500.00 out there. i want to test it stock, just for shits and grins.
as for the overall features... when you add an 8-16G flash and a 4400mAh rc battery i found on the e bay,
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130113795119&sspagename=ADME:B:AAQ:US:1
and with this little bad boy you can charge up anywhere.
http://www.onlybatterypacks.com/showitem.asp?ItemID=10139
thats from 9 to 11 hours run time with plenty of gig to spare if you choose 16G flash
or if you want smaller cheaper flash cards...
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/367686-REG/Wolverine_7060_60GB_FlashPac_7000_7_in_1.html
will post the cracker show next week, if FOH does a good job mixing!
-
Anyone had a chance to test out an unmodded unit in a PA recording environment yet? Any recordings to share?
-
getting closer to making the jump on this box
asking cascade now what it is going for.... I wonder i busman has had the chance to pop on open and think about MODs
oade has them listed online now w/ T and AC mods.... hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
-
getting closer to making the jump on this box
asking cascade now what it is going for.... I wonder i busman has had the chance to pop on open and think about MODs
oade has them listed online now w/ T and AC mods.... hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
Hey all...
Busman has had my FR-2LE for a couple weeks and he is just about done with it. It was the first one that he has worked on and from what Chris has said, it is sounding really good!
I emailed with Doug Oade as well before deciding to send it to Busman, and he was very positive about the box in general, but was adamant about not modding boxes he hasn't sold.
I'm really happy with it so far, and can't wait to get it back as I'm sure the mods will really clean up any of the cheaper chips/parts that are in there.
I think Cascade is selling them for $529, but I'm not positive.
-
Fostex has released a firmware update, version 1.10. Read about it here
http://www.fostexinternational.com/docs/pro_support/FR2LE_V110_supplement.pdf
The update adds 3 new features.
-Mono recording is now possible (except when recording 192K MP3)
-Info about manufacturer and serial number of the Compactflash card is available
-Metering can be set to peak or continuous.
No word about what bug fixes might be contained in the release.
Flintstone
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Fostex has released a firmware update, version 1.10. Read about it here
http://www.fostexinternational.com/docs/pro_support/FR2LE_V110_supplement.pdf
The update adds 3 new features.
-Mono recording is now possible (except when recording 192K MP3)
-Info about manufacturer and serial number of the Compactflash card is available
-Metering can be set to peak or continuous.
No word about what bug fixes might be contained in the release.
Flintstone
Nice!
They told me that I was the first to ask for a change in the front-panel metering...Glad they ended up doing it. At least now you have the choice! Mono recording is a no brainer also.
I don't think any bugs have been found, just little tweaks like this that make it more user-friendly.
-
I wonder how this box is with seamless file splits, and if you can pick the file size for the split
also need to know how it works with CF cards over 4gb
hmmmmmm
-
we look forward to your reports concerning those issues. ;)
-
Prompt response from their tech:
1. auto split set to 2gb, but can be smaller if chosen thru the menu options. They stated it was seemless and no loss of any sound
2. up to 8gb cards may be used. It was not stated if anything larger has been tried.......
-
16G works fine, i ran this through bonnaroo and it totally rocks. well the v2 helped too. ill post soon all of my findings and rig picts.
-
V2> fr2le is what i am looking to run soon
can't wait to hear yr stuff
-
getting closer..........closer
anyways
this thing has a "tamiya style " connector, which looks like the kind of conector i have on my 9v RC batts i used with the UA5
there is mention of a 'tamiya battery' that fits in the FR2le's batt case....
but could i just use my RC batts?
-
getting closer..........closer
anyways
this thing has a "tamiya style " connector, which looks like the kind of conector i have on my 9v RC batts i used with the UA5
there is mention of a 'tamiya battery' that fits in the FR2le's batt case....
but could i just use my RC batts?
I've been running mine with some RC batteries...but they are 7.2v, not 9v.
I'm not sure if the 9v will work or not.
The Fostex batt compartment is made to fit these. Alternately, they also include a AA sled that is the shape of the RC batts that has a tamiya connector. The 7.2v 4200mAh RC runs mine for about 8 hours/charge!
-
16G works fine, i ran this through bonnaroo and it totally rocks. well the v2 helped too. ill post soon all of my findings and rig picts.
So did it run fine out there at the 'roo? No issues?
What was the longest you ran it for at one time?
Interested in hearing some of your recordings!
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f' it
just ordered one from cascade....
and a 8gb card
R-4 is out the door next week
splitting a V-2 with sleepypedro I think for awhile to run in front
psyched!!
-
So what's the verdict?
-
i ordered it 2 weeks ago tomorrow..
was supposed to get here straight from the fostex by the end of the month, but maybe that month was july, not june... hope not
the place i ordered thru was out of stock, but i got a good deal... would have much rather paid more and gotten it sooner
last word was that is was shipping "soon"
can't wait....
-
Jmos, what is your verdict?
-
Jmos, what is your verdict?
My verdict...is that I think it's a fantastic box.
Without rehashing too much of what other reviews have said about it...
-I think the powering situation is great. The RC batteries last a long time and are a great solution over li-ion or lots of AA's.
-I really like the XLR-1/4" locking combo jacks.
-The mic pre's are very good. The adjustment knobs are tiny, but that's a good thing for once you have them set. Sound is excellent out-of-the-box, and even better with the busman mods. Seems there are some cheap parts in there (not unlike many other of the recorders out now).
-Headphone out is powerful enough, but is noisy. At a loud concert this wouldn't be a problem at all, but is a little disconcerting when recording quiet sounds. Recordings are clean, and this becomes evident once you listen to them some other way.
-Now that they've released a new firmware, you can have full metering in color on the side panel, which is really handy if you use it in a portabrace like I've been doing. There's also a PFL peak LED which lets you know if your mic pre is clipping.
Every person & or report I've found that's done any audio testing on it has come back and said the results are really, really impressive. It's got some quirks, but every new recorder that's come out does. It's a great package, is very well thought out, and is well worth the $$$ IMO. I would definitely choose this over a Marantz 660/670/671.
Hope that helps.
-
thanks for the input JMOS I'm considering recommending this unit to a friend who is looking into getting started in taping. sounds like it might be a good box to get started on.
-
I just placed my order with Doug for a TCM FR2LE, i'm stoked to hear what this bad boy will do.
How is the build quality of the unit?
-
Well, it's a piece of plastic! Build quality is OK...... just OK. You will want some kind of protective bag for it. The plus side is.... it's sounds really good.
-
How is the build quality of the unit?
Well once you get past the fact that the case is plastic, I'd say that the build quality is pretty good. I don't mind plastic as long as it's not too thin or cheap feeling. The only thing about it that I think feels cheap are the small adjustment pots for the mic gain & headphone volume.
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Can one copy recorded files with a program like Explorer from the CF card to a PC? Or does one have to use special software for that? I ask because according to the manual, the FR-2LE stores its recordings in a kind of project container (card has to be specially formated for a certain recording quality) and so on. So when one connects the unit to a PC, does it become a drive and does one see files like 0001.wav or fos0003.bwf?
Thanks
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Can one copy recorded files with a program like Explorer from the CF card to a PC? Or does one have to use special software for that? I ask because according to the manual, the FR-2LE stores its recordings in a kind of project container (card has to be specially formated for a certain recording quality) and so on. So when one connects the unit to a PC, does it become a drive and does one see files like 0001.wav or fos0003.bwf?
Thanks
I've only had it connected to macs, but it shows up as an external drive, like any other mass-storage device.
It's true that once you format a card for a certain sample/bit rate, recordings have to adhere to those settings until you reformat the card with different settings.
No special software needed!
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I just placed my order with Doug for a TCM FR2LE, i'm stoked to hear what this bad boy will do.
Congrats man! +T for new toys...
I'm sure it will sound mighty fine.
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For those running these w/ pres in front, can you use it just as an A/D?
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For those running these w/ pres in front, can you use it just as an A/D?
Yep.
The 1/4" unbalanced line inputs bypass the mic pres. I picked up tapermark's mini-mp and I'm thinking I may use it in front of the Fostex.
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For those running these w/ pres in front, can you use it just as an A/D?
Yep.
The 1/4" unbalanced line inputs bypass the mic pres. I picked up tapermark's mini-mp and I'm thinking I may use it in front of the Fostex.
That's good news. This box is very tempting.
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The 1/4" unbalanced line inputs bypass the mic pres.
Does it actually bypass the pre gain stage, or is it just attenuated? Most all-in-one recorders have a single gain stage for both mic- and line-in: mic-in = no pad, line-in = pad.
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The online merchants I've checked all are quoting $599 for the FR-2LE.
Has anyone found a better deal anywhere? Surely someone must want
to make a sale.
Flintstone
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The 1/4" unbalanced line inputs bypass the mic pres.
Does it actually bypass the pre gain stage, or is it just attenuated? Most all-in-one recorders have a single gain stage for both mic- and line-in: mic-in = no pad, line-in = pad.
Hey Brian,
Yeah that's a good point...although I can't give you a positive answer, connecting to the TS 1/4" jack makes the mic trim controllers inoperable. The manual says that the 1/4" jacks take a -10 dBV signal, while the mic inputs can range from -50 to -10 dBU of gain.
I'll see if I can find out for sure.
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I just read in the PDF manual, "provides combo type balanced connectors", I think these are just like the Mini Me xlr - trs combo.
.
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canceled my order today...
no word about when they would arrive for more then a week at a time.... it has been a month...
some story about them being stuck in customs.....
i give up
prob just get a r-9.... all i really need.
i was just excited to try some new tech'
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so, it's become clear to me that there's no way I'll have the scratch for a 722 without selling everything but mics...not what I want to do. I'm kinda focused on this box because of the price and the fact that for a third of the price of a 722 I'm getting what sounds like a nice a/d and flash recorder after doug mods. Any reliability/connection quality issues? Thanks, marc.
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so, it's become clear to me that there's no way I'll have the scratch for a 722 without selling everything but mics...not what I want to do. I'm kinda focused on this box because of the price and the fact that for a third of the price of a 722 I'm getting what sounds like a nice a/d and flash recorder after doug mods. Any reliability/connection quality issues? Thanks, marc.
Hey well, it's certainly not as "luxurious" a box as a 722, but it's really solid for what it does.
If you read all the posts in this thread, it should give you a good idea about it's strengths and weaknesses.
After owning it for a little while, the only thing that bugs me about it is the noisy headphone output. Again, if you are recording anything that is sustained and loud, it won't be an issue, but for quieter stuff it is disconcerting to not hear pure background silence while monitoring. That being said, once I transfer the files and listen via computer, everyone of the files I've recorded is crystal clear.
Anyway, seems like the challenge currently is finding one in stock.
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Anyway, seems like the challenge currently is finding one in stock.
B&H has them in stock...or so says the website.
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I believe Doug also has them in stock, based on an email I just got from him.
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after all my stressing, they "finally got thru customs" or some shit...
anyways,
I really like the lay out and the build feels fairly solid... all plastic, but thicker build then the R-4(which is the only other plastic unit i've held,FWIW)
the old school meters on the side are nice, as well as digil readout meters on the top...
the trim pots are small, and i have big fingers, but i'd rather them not be bumped easily
recognized and formated my 8gb cards.. i selected 4gb splts via the menu
I guess the using .bwf format get around the 2gb file splt, but fostex tells me 4gb is the max
wish it had a hold button... easy pre-record>record function
first real run will be this weds running the V2 into the FR2le... I hope I can run the V2 wide open
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I want to snap some pix of the unit this weekend... really like the LCD readout on top...all important info(time lef/samplerate/phantom on/etc) is clearly visable
PROS:
light weight, but solid plastic feel
pre-record buffer
easy to read meters on the side with smooth transition from "Pre-Record" to "Record" mode
not sure yet if it is a pro or con, but it has an internal battsled that holds 4aa batts, or a 7.2 rechargeable batt that fits in the same slot and last for hours// we'll see when it arrives
the gain knobs are linked unless you twist a bit harder on one or the other... keeps levels tight and constant, but any change can be easily tweaked.
Trim pots
CF cards are nice... I like not having any moving parts, Alot
CONS:
I'd rather it record in .wav instead of .bwf. Soundforge didn't recognize the file, but CDWave did. .BWF gets around the file split issue i guess.
No Hold button, but you have to hold the off button for it to switch off
The knobs are quite small and all balck with no markings (mights use a paint pen to at least give me a base line)
over all, I like it alot so far... I had an issue with the V2 so i have to wait to make a comparison. i think it make a great solid state all in one box.
These clips are 24/48 FLAC files (MGm300s DIN/10'/DFC>KindCablesStealthSilvers> FR2le) are above a Very chatty crowd are not meant in Any Way to be the definitive sound of the stock pre amps. I have not even put this on my home system, and I did run it a bit hot, but it sound pretty damn good and i thought y'all might like to hear this box at work:
http://www.sendspace.com/file/pf4q9s
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Way to go. Everyone that buys it likes it.
I had the same issues with the all black knobs..... just can't see, so I got some white fingernail polish (had wife buy it) and put some witness marks on the trim, headphone and master pots.
I'm on a mac so can't help you with Soundforge, but it shouild be able to import the file. Can't understand that one.
Costco has the SanDisk Ultra II 2gb CF card on sale for $19.99 until 8-15-07, and it's plenty fast enough for the Fostex.... I think it's x66.
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Anyone using 8GB or higher CF cards?
Rick
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No hold button?
Does anyone know how this compares in size with the Marantz PMD-660?
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here are some pix i took:
top display
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v375/tpoff666/R-4/IMG_1206.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v375/tpoff666/R-4/IMG_1207.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v375/tpoff666/R-4/IMG_1208.jpg)
getting ready to give it a run outside with the stock pre-amps
samples to come
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Hey nice pics...
Glad you finally got one of these and didn't go with something else. I got a silver paint pen, taped off those trim & headphone pots except for the level mark, and marked each with a bit of silver paint. I def. recommend doing something similar (or something temporary for now) before running it out in the field.
And have you updated the firmware so that you can have the full metering on the side of the unit?
Would be cool to hear part of a show w/the V2 in there, and part of the show w/the stock pre's just to hear the difference.
Good luck!
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Thanks for the pix Tim. It looks to be almost the exact same size as the 660
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Thanks for the pix Tim. It looks to be almost the exact same size as the 660
The 660 is a little smaller.
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The PMD660 is about 2/3 the size and weight of the FR-2LE.
Flintstone
Marantz PMD660
dimensions = 47 x 184 x 113 mm
volume = 977 cc
weight = 607 g = recorder (500 g) + 4 AA cells (92 g) + CF card (15g)
Fostex FR-2LE
dimensions = 57 x 206 x 132 mm
volume = 1550 cc
weight = 907 g = recorder (800 g) + 4 AA (92 g) + CF card (15g)
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any reports on battery life w/ 4aa's? i have read the thread and must have missed it if already said.
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getting ready to give it a run outside with the stock pre-amps
samples to come
I'm really interested in hearing the stock pre's. I'm thinking this box could be a front runner in the reasonably priced all in one solution market.
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what type of cf cards are folks using in this recorder?
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here's a clip SBD>FR2LE (24/48) flac 118MB
http://www.sendspace.com/file/hgnpbt
more of an example of the AD conversion iguess
going to try and make up a power cable for my v2 tomorrow so i can run it an outdoor show and put up some more clips
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what type of cf cards are folks using in this recorder?
I'm using a Transcend 8GB 120X (TS8GCF120) and a Transcend 2GB 120X (TS4GCF120)
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what type of cf cards are folks using in this recorder?
I had been using a few PQI 100x 2GB & 4GB cards with no problems recording at any bit/sample rates.
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I have done about 30 hours of 16/44 recording on Kingston 8 GB 133x CF cards with no problem. NT4 > FR2LE internal battery or full phantom.
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Saw one last weekend a friend had purchased from Musician's Friend as a scratch&dent item. He said the unit that arrived was a NIB item. I went to their website and they list the S&D at $469.99 (free shipping) with the S&D sale running through Tuesday October 2nd. Regular non-S&D price is $599. Spent all week debating whether to order one of these or wait a month or two and get an FR2 or PMD671. Decided the finances where a little too shaky to opt for one of the other units immediately and didn't feel like waiting so placed an order with MF and got a little surprise, website still shows $469.99 for a S&D but was quoted and charged $399.99! It should ship Monday and I'll update after arrival as to how this open-box item is cosmetically. If you're feeling adventurous (unit won't arrive before the sale ends) and want to take your chances on a scratch and dent unit, give MF a call and see if they quote you the $399.99 price. Haven't found a better price anywhere else.
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Fostex-FR2LE-High-Definition-Field-Recorder?sku=240346X
MF's S&D description: Scratch and Dent Items ("Blems")
This is a Scratch and Dent item. What does that mean? These items are primarily products that have been previously returned by other customers. They are products that may have some cosmetic flaws such as scratches or nicks, or may be slightly experienced. Either way, they are guaranteed to function perfectly. If you can live with a minor blemish and a "not-so-pretty" box, you'll save some serious bucks! Because of the random nature of flaws on specific items, we are unable to list specific details. All Scratch and Dent products include our 100% Satisfaction Guarantee so you can take a full 45 days to check out the gear before deciding to keep it.
UPDATE 02 October - just got off the phone with MF's customer service to check on status of the order since I had not received a confirmation e-mail. Order had been cancelled. Could not get an explanantion why but I suspect it was because they sold took orders for more than they had available. In light of the no communication from MF and the order taker saying they had them in stock ready to ship, I can not recommend this seller and in the future will take my business elsewhere.
UPDATE #2 - 07 NOV - just got off the phone with MF's Customer Service to find out what was in the box that was on my front porch yesterday and to ask for an RA# and a UPS call tag. Seems they reinstated the S&D order they had previously cancelled. From the CS agent and the invoice, they reinstated the order on Oct 11 but didn't have a returned unit to ship until Nov 2. They also honored the $399.99 price I was quoted back in September. Only problem is in the meantime I bought an FR2 and I don't really need two new recorders.
While Musician's Friend has a great price (and the unit looks like it had never been out of the box), I still had no contact from Musician's Friend that I did not initiate. A phone call or an e-mail informing me the order had been reinstated would have been considerate and would have saved me about a grand or even a message of some sort that it had been shipped, though at that point it would not have prevented me purchasing the FR2. If you want to deal with Musician's Friend, be aware that you probably will not be informed of what is going on; you place your order and you may see the product in two days or you may see it in 6 weeks with no contact from them.
MF, good/great prices, non-existent contact letting the customer know what is going on. I probably won't be dealing with them again.
UPDATE #3 - Dec 26: After returning from a mid-December vacation, still no return shipping label from Musician's Friend. I can't recommend MF other than to suggest taking your business elsewhere; I certainly will after the no communication/no followup I've received from them.
I decided to keep this after reviewing my finances. Was borderline about keeping it anyway because the price was so good and with a little Christmas cash, I can keep it and order a couple of larger CF cards for it and the FR2. With the FR2LE and the unmodded one my friend purchased, I can finally do some mic comps I've been wanting to for some time.
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I will be getting a Oade TCM FR2LE on thursday.. so I'll post experiences in this thread (or start a new one)..
questions for users.. the 2g or 4g file size option.. Does the recording stop entirely at these values? Or while you're recording does the machine just close the file and start a new one(seemless split)at the value you choose?
and.. I will be using the TRS line-in option to run a pre in front (v2) for the first test (then maybe second set just as all-in-one).. With the trs connectors, while they don't "lock" in place (im guessing), what happens if they are turned and you are recording? ex: can you spin the 1/4 inch connector around and not have the signal interrupted?
thanks.. and I will post feedback on the unit when I have it..
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I will be using the TRS line-in option to run a pre in front (v2) for the first test (then maybe second set just as all-in-one).. With the trs connectors, while they don't "lock" in place (im guessing), what happens if they are turned and you are recording? ex: can you spin the 1/4 inch connector around and not have the signal interrupted?
thanks.. and I will post feedback on the unit when I have it..
They are the standard Neutrik XLR / 1/4" combo jacks. They are "locking" connectors for the 1/4" as well as the XLR. Although this is true, with enough force you could pull out the phone plug without disengaging the release, but it does hold pretty well.
I believe you can rotate the plug while connected, but it's not really advisable unless you have to.
Hope that helps.
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I will be using the TRS line-in option to run a pre in front (v2) for the first test (then maybe second set just as all-in-one).. With the trs connectors, while they don't "lock" in place (im guessing), what happens if they are turned and you are recording? ex: can you spin the 1/4 inch connector around and not have the signal interrupted?
thanks.. and I will post feedback on the unit when I have it..
They are the standard Neutrik XLR / 1/4" combo jacks. They are "locking" connectors for the 1/4" as well as the XLR. Although this is true, with enough force you could pull out the phone plug without disengaging the release, but it does hold pretty well.
I believe you can rotate the plug while connected, but it's not really advisable unless you have to.
Hope that helps.
yes it does help.. thanks!
I've never used the "combo" jacks before, so I was just curious.. oh and I have *no* interest in turning the jacks, but I was jus' wondering what would happen if you did.. of course, these questions will be answered when I get the deck.. +t
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as this show was yesterday I obviously don't have any opinions on the deck, but first impression is so far so good...
http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=510056 (http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=510056)
Steve Kimock
w/ George Porter Jr., Robert Walter, John Morgan Kimock
Mexicali Blues Cafe, Teaneck NJ
October 5th, 2007 FRI
disc one - set one
01. High and Lonesome
02. Nature's Rock and Roll
03. You're The One
04. Going to the Country
disc two - set two
01. It's Up To You
02. Funky Miracle
03. Tongue n' Groove
disc three - set two cont.
01. Five B4 Funk*
02. Kickin' Up Dust*
source: Neumann tlm170 - FOB
lineage: tlm170 > grace v2 > OADEtcmMOD FR2LE > CDWave > .flac
taper: ericBowne eric.bowneATgmailDOTcom
Steve Kimock - various guitars
George Porter Jr. - bass
Robert Walter - keys
John Kimock - drums
*John Fadem - guitar
notes: Steve Kimock's Birthday
Mexicali Blues 5th Anniversary
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I will be using the TRS line-in option to run a pre in front (v2) for the first test (then maybe second set just as all-in-one).. With the trs connectors, while they don't "lock" in place (im guessing), what happens if they are turned and you are recording? ex: can you spin the 1/4 inch connector around and not have the signal interrupted?
thanks.. and I will post feedback on the unit when I have it..
They are the standard Neutrik XLR / 1/4" combo jacks. They are "locking" connectors for the 1/4" as well as the XLR. Although this is true, with enough force you could pull out the phone plug without disengaging the release, but it does hold pretty well.
I believe you can rotate the plug while connected, but it's not really advisable unless you have to.
Hope that helps.
The line in are TS.... not TRS. The locking is only when using the XLRs/mic in.
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Just got mine today! Busman "Vintage" mod. I can't wait to get out to use this thing.
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Checking in here, made the jump and bought one of these units.
Re: CF cards
I have had it relayed to me that the Sandisk cards will work.
Can anyone else repost on what other types of cards are compatible for 24/48 recording?
Can't wait to try this thing out!
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Checking in here, made the jump and bought one of these units.
Re: CF cards
I have had it relayed to me that the Sandisk cards will work.
Can anyone else repost on what other types of cards are compatible for 24/48 recording?
Can't wait to try this thing out!
so far just a sandisk extremeIII 4gb.. works fine at all bit/sample rates..
btw.. also running a 7.2 3000mah tamiya battery which I have tested. Ran the fr2le yesterday for a test.. 16/44 - 4gb file size - mic in/phantom with tlm170's.. ran until the card was full which was just under 6 hours.. battery meter showed the capacity at about 3/4's when it stopped recording.. so Im think at least 7 hours a pop on a tamiya 7.2v 3000mah pack with phantom (and lcd light on as well)..
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Can anyone report a AA battery life test with phantom on @24/48? Would be appreciated :)
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Can anyone report a AA battery life test with phantom on @24/48? Would be appreciated :)
not that it'll help, but first night with this unit were with 4 aa alkalines running line in (no phantom).. little over three hours and the batt bar went down 1/3.. It'll depend on how hungry your mics are for power.. I won't be able to answer this question for you though, as Im not going to waste aa's for a 'test'..
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So I'm considering grabbing one of these and getting it busman modded. My concern is that my current software will not be able to process .bwf files. Do any of you have any way to send me or post a small snippet of a .bwf file so i can be sure that i will be able to process these files.
I would really appreciate it.
Thanks!
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So I'm considering grabbing one of these and getting it busman modded. My concern is that my current software will not be able to process .bwf files. Do any of you have any way to send me or post a small snippet of a .bwf file so i can be sure that i will be able to process these files.
I would really appreciate it.
Thanks!
so far I've had no problems opening the .bwf files in cdwave and soundforge7... I was also able to open a greater than 2 gig file in cdwave (4 gig file actually), but not in soundforge for there is a 2 gig limit with it..
If you'd like me to send you .bwf file, send over a pm...
edit: tested with a 4gb 24/96 file last night, opened up no problem in cdwave
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So what's the technique for doing 24/96 over the 4GB limit? Can you seamlessly start a new file on the fly or does the recording have to be stopped and restarted.
Thanks.
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as per the manual, the box stops recording when it reaches its file size limit. so, you must set it at 4 gb and just open w/ cdwav to make the file small enough for wavelab or whatever. i ran mine for the first time saturday night for a 4 piece jazz band. it sounds great, but its true test will be tomorrow night for gov't mule. my first impressions are: the menu is very easy to use, batt life is good, transferring is kinda slow, but other than that i have no complaints.
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Can anyone tell me if running a pre in front of this recorder introduces any extra sound(noise) from the recorders own pre, are you using the XLR mic ins, or the 1/4 inch LINE ins?
thanks
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Waiting on the arrival of a warm mod unit and new mics from Doug :yahoo:
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Can anyone tell me if running a pre in front of this recorder introduces any extra sound(noise) from the recorders own pre, are you using the XLR mic ins, or the 1/4 inch LINE ins?
thanks
Running a pre in front will not introduce any noise...the FR2-LE is very quiet, even the un-modded units.
I ran a lunatec V2 into the 1/4" jacks of the FR2-LE a couple times and it sounded fantastic.
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I have now run this unit 3 times at 24/48 and have been pretty impressed with the stock pre-amps. I used to run a plain-old digi-mod UA-5 and I would say that the sound in comparable, if not better.
Once I figure out this FLAC issue I am having ::), I will upload some sample to the archive.
Edit: Here is a show with the FR-2LE at the 24/48 setting: http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93438.0.html
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Waiting on the arrival of a warm mod unit and new mics from Doug :yahoo:
Enjoy the new rig!! That should make some very nice tapes in a very small package. The DPA's are so laser accurate that it's nice to add a touch of warmth.
+T
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Thanks I can't wait to run it; though I'll probably have to get rid of the stealth rig to help offset the cost. Looks like my days of playing "human mic stand" are over. :-\
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http://www.mediafire.com/?adzwtlly2gg (http://www.mediafire.com/?adzwtlly2gg)
mule 10.23.07
fob, dfc, nos 84i>hydra silver>busman vintage fr2le
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the last one was mp3.
flac file. 16bit version. neumann 84i(nos)>hydras>busman vintage fr2le@24/44.1
xfer: fr2le>usb>wavelab5(uv22hr)>cdwav(tracks)>flac7
http://www.mediafire.com/?0kvw2jxi34o (http://www.mediafire.com/?0kvw2jxi34o)
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are you using a fast "peak" charger for your tamiya battery?
the local RC car shop doesn't have a trickle charger.
is this going to make a huge difference?
thanks
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did you get yr tamiya batts at radio shack?
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nope
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First recording with the FR-2Le the other night, and when I open the file in Sound Forge 6.0 there is this in the corner:
"Chase Offset Byte 16-24"
Anyone else have this? Anyone know what that means?
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did you get yr tamiya batts at radio shack?
There are some really good deals on eBay for two batteries with a charger.
Ebay Store (http://stores.ebay.com/All-Battery-Center_RC-Car-Battery_4-8V-7-2V_W0QQcolZ4QQdirZ1QQfsubZ12793743QQftidZ2QQtZkm)
You can pick up an inexpensive 12V Car Trickle charger to go with them.
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http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html)
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Got mine from the Ebay forum here, and it works great, gonna take it out tonight for Ratdog.
I got a battery/charger for a comparable price to ebay(when you consider shipping and time), and from a local RC car place(I like supporting small local businesses). Anyone seen any aftermarket cases?
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PortaBrace makes one, $140 at B&H
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/476177-REG/Porta_Brace_ARFR2LE_AR_FR2LE_Audio_Recorder_Case.html
Fostex also has a simple case for it at a much better price $20
http://www.fostexusa.com/store/cart.php?target=product&product_id=587&category_id=79
not aware of any other that have hit the market yet
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http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html)
Thanks! Eagerly awaiting this to finish downloading.
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PortaBrace makes one, $140 at B&H
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/476177-REG/Porta_Brace_ARFR2LE_AR_FR2LE_Audio_Recorder_Case.html
Fostex also has a simple case for it at a much better price $20
http://www.fostexusa.com/store/cart.php?target=product&product_id=587&category_id=79
not aware of any other that have hit the market yet
+T, thanks the one from fostex is sorta what I was looking for.
I am listening to my recording from tonight right now, and it sounds spectacular. very easy to use, great sound and the battery life with the tamiya 7.2v is unbeatable. I dig this unit
I ran unit 3 1/2 hours and the battery still reads as full.
+T's all around for the useful info here.
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http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html)
This sounds really friggin good.
Question, on Enter Sandman the levels get backed off a bit... was this done with the trim knobs or the main L/R levels?
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Also this is clear enough to hear an electronic crackle or fuzz around most of the instruments. Doesn't seem to be overload of any sort since it's not happening with drum kicks.
Was Chris having issues with the PA this night? I've noticed an edge to most copies of this Panic show so far but this is the first I've been able to really isolate it. Best way I know to describe it is the way a wireless rig starts to sound as the battery is dying.
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http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html)
This sounds really friggin good.
Question, on Enter Sandman the levels get backed off a bit... was this done with the trim knobs or the main L/R levels?
the main l/r knob was used to back off.
Also this is clear enough to hear an electronic crackle or fuzz around most of the instruments. Doesn't seem to be overload of any sort since it's not happening with drum kicks.
Was Chris having issues with the PA this night? I've noticed an edge to most copies of this Panic show so far but this is the first I've been able to really isolate it. Best way I know to describe it is the way a wireless rig starts to sound as the battery is dying.
i didnt hear this at the show, but i did notice it during playback. i have no idea why though.
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http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,93742.0.html)
+ t This sounds amazing! Could be time to invest a little more into one of these. >:D
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My first outing with the Unit. I really dig this thing.
http://www.archive.org/details/Ratdog2007-11-03.RD07-11-03
I'll get the 24bit version up in a few days
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My first outing with the Unit. I really dig this thing.
http://www.archive.org/details/Ratdog2007-11-03.RD07-11-03
I'll get the 24bit version up in a few days
Thanks! Did you run Line In (1/4") from the Wendt?
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i didnt hear this at the show, but i did notice it during playback. i have no idea why though.
It's not happening in the first set. Something got toasted during Enter Sandman.
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i didnt hear this at the show, but i did notice it during playback. i have no idea why though.
It's not happening in the first set. Something got toasted during Enter Sandman.
that right when gordo's cookie kicked in. maybe he gave one to rahbold too.
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that right when gordo's cookie kicked in. maybe he gave one to rahbold too.
mmmmm.... cookies.
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My first outing with the Unit. I really dig this thing.
http://www.archive.org/details/Ratdog2007-11-03.RD07-11-03
I'll get the 24bit version up in a few days
Thanks! Did you run Line In (1/4") from the Wendt?
nope I used the xlr ins. I may have to use the 1/4" to compare some time.
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if you run xlr>xlr (mic-in) you are essentially running 2 pre's (pre>pre). so, i would suggest using the 1/4" ins (line-in). your battery consumption will drastically improve as well.
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I am going on 9 1/2 hours atm with my battery, and its reading 3/4 full. I don't have to worry about battery life =D.
the pre seems very quiet(clean) on the fostex, I didn't notice any difference with it going through fostex's pre as well.
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Well, you all know by now that I am a HUGE 7xx fluffer. Well, Steve Toney(tonedeaf) and myself ran side by side last week for Jazzam/PGroove and RAQ on 10/24 and 10/25, and let me just say that his mod463>oade wmod fr2le recordings are freakin TOP NOTCH :) They are easily as good/better than mine :) I like my MBHO Hypers>722 PGroove better, but his RAQ I actually like better than my recording :)
Here are the 2 shows so you all can compare how well it sounds compared to the 7xx units :) I am DEF getting one of these for mys econd pair of mics, just unsure who I want to mod it. I think the Busman Vintage mod is at the top of the list and would compliment both my 480's and my MBHO's very nicely :)
Perpetual Groove 10/24/2007 MBHO KA500 HN(Hypers)>Actives>603 A bodies>722@24/48
http://www.archive.org/details/pgroove2007-10-24.ka500.722.flac16 (http://www.archive.org/details/pgroove2007-10-24.ka500.722.flac16)
Perpetual Groove 10/24/2007 Mod463's>Oade WMod FR2-LE@24/48
http://www.archive.org/details/pgroove2007-10-24.jwmod460 (http://www.archive.org/details/pgroove2007-10-24.jwmod460)
RAQ 10/25/2007 MBHO KA500 HN(Hypers)>Actives>603 A bodies>722@24/48
http://www.archive.org/details/raq2007-10-25.ka500.722.flac16 (http://www.archive.org/details/raq2007-10-25.ka500.722.flac16)
RAQ 10/25/2007 Mod463's>Oade WMod FR2-LE@24/48
http://www.archive.org/details/raq2007-10-25.jwmod460 (http://www.archive.org/details/raq2007-10-25.jwmod460)
I'd lovbe to know what ya'lls opinions are of this particular "comp" too ;)
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Bean, Since I'm not familiar with either group is there a track in particular that perhaps we should focus on. That way any who comment are listening to the same thing.
Also a lot quicker to download ;D
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OK so I picked Wasted Endeavors at random and it seems to be a good choice since it starts light and slow give you time to evaluate space in relation to the room as well as tonal characteristics.
On my system one has a more open and natural feel than the other. The depth of the soundstage is one of the clues and the other is simply the way my mind reacts when trying to get that illusion of space. I can just relax into one and the other takes a bit more focus and time. As far as tonality, listen to the attack, tone, and decay of the ride cymbal. One of the two sound more like being there the other like a recorded cymbal. The midrange is more open in one.
Since we're dealing with AKG and MBHO it's certainly not all characteristics of the box.
And as usual, isn't it nice that these are the kinds of choices we have to make.
Oh and they overdrove the PA >:(
...And now I'm going to be really hurried to get to work since I played listening tests instead of get ready.... >:D
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OK so I picked Wasted Endeavors at random and it seems to be a good choice since it starts light and slow give you time to evaluate space in relation to the room as well as tonal characteristics.
On my system one has a more open and natural feel than the other. The depth of the soundstage is one of the clues and the other is simply the way my mind reacts when trying to get that illusion of space. I can just relax into one and the other takes a bit more focus and time. As far as tonality, listen to the attack, tone, and decay of the ride cymbal. One of the two sound more like being there the other like a recorded cymbal. The midrange is more open in one.
Since we're dealing with AKG and MBHO it's certainly not all characteristics of the box.
And as usual, isn't it nice that these are the kinds of choices we have to make.
Oh and they overdrove the PA >:(
...And now I'm going to be really hurried to get to work since I played listening tests instead of get ready.... >:D
Thanks for evaluating the comp. I would pick "A Day The Way" as a single song to evaluate :)
So, which one did you prefer? Just PM me the answer ;)
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http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,94129.0.html (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,94129.0.html)
24bit fob panic goodness.
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So I pulled the trigger and have an FR2-LE coming to me in the mail. As soon as I get it, its off to Busman for a T-mod. I can't wait to have a great all in one!
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first time Ive ever done anything like this, but here goes..
I taped one set of the Codetalkers with the v2 in front of the tcm fr2le (rca>1/4), and the other straight into the tcm fr2le (mic in, phantom).. I have created two files, both excerpts of two songs, one from each set...
one file is: tlm170 > v2 > oadeTCMfr2le and the other is: tlm170>oadeTCMfr2le but the files listed below are in no particular order.
http://www.sendspace.com/file/nx8zut (http://www.sendspace.com/file/nx8zut)
http://www.sendspace.com/file/7oy5nm (http://www.sendspace.com/file/7oy5nm)
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first time Ive ever done anything like this, but here goes..
I taped one set of the Codetalkers with the v2 in front of the tcm fr2le (rca>1/4), and the other straight into the tcm fr2le (mic in, phantom).. I have created two files, both excerpts of two songs, one from each set...
one file is: tlm170 > v2 > oadeTCMfr2le and the other is: tlm170>oadeTCMfr2le but the files listed below are in no particular order.
http://www.sendspace.com/file/nx8zut (http://www.sendspace.com/file/nx8zut)
http://www.sendspace.com/file/7oy5nm (http://www.sendspace.com/file/7oy5nm)
1 - V2
2 - Oade mod
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The hold button on the MT has saved me many a time.
I like to set levels and walk away so I don't stand there and turn knobs, so I like to keep my rig in some type of bag.
Sooooo... how easy would it be to accidently stop a recording in progress on the FR2le? I see there's a stop button on the top panel :-\ that makes me worried.
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The hold button on the MT has saved me many a time.
I like to set levels and walk away so I don't stand there and turn knobs, so I like to keep my rig in some type of bag.
Sooooo... how easy would it be to accidently stop a recording in progress on the FR2le? I see there's a stop button on the top panel :-\ that makes me worried.
The Fostex has a "Hold" button.
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The hold button on the MT has saved me many a time.
I like to set levels and walk away so I don't stand there and turn knobs, so I like to keep my rig in some type of bag.
Sooooo... how easy would it be to accidently stop a recording in progress on the FR2le? I see there's a stop button on the top panel :-\ that makes me worried.
The Fostex has a "Hold" button.
the "hold" on the fr2le can lock the top panel completely. you can, however, stop the deck while recording by hitting the "stdby" button on regardless of whether the lock/hold is engaged.
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OK, thanks alot for the replies.
But, let me make sure I got this straight. :P
It has a hold :)
But it doesn't apply to the two big buttons on the side? :-\
??? ???
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OK, thanks alot for the replies.
But, let me make sure I got this straight. :P
It has a hold :)
But it doesn't apply to the two big buttons on the side? :-\
??? ???
welp, not both big buttons... if you are recording, hitting the record button does nothing.. the standby button on the other hand..
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Just to follow-up Chucky's questions on one of my biggest FR2LE concerns...
Do you NEED the standby button? If it was disabled with a cover or something, how would that impact the deck? Any other ways to screw up a recording with the hold on?
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Just to follow-up Chucky's questions on one of my biggest FR2LE concerns...
Do you NEED the standby button? If it was disabled with a cover or something, how would that impact the deck? Any other ways to screw up a recording with the hold on?
nope.. thats the only way, as long as the top panel lock is engaged.. I have the front panel buttons covered with velcro myself.. I hit record and cover both buttons. also, the only way you can "monitor/check levels" without actually recording is to hit the standby button. Although completely covering the standby button would still allow you to use the deck absolutely...
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OK, got it. Thanks a million.
Piece of velcro seems like a good fix. Another thing I HATE about the MT- Not being able to monitor levels until your rolling. I think I'm gonna get one of these and get it modded on it's way out to me in Japan.
I'm such a klutz, that even with the hold button engaged I jamb my MT into my bag,
the hold gets caught on something and disengages, just as the record button bumps my battery and shuts down, as I'm zipping my bag and already walking the other direction with my drink in my hand.
I try telling myself that it's a cable, no wait the MT hickups, or was it the battery. Whatever the case I've done it more than once and it's quite likely "user error" or "user error in judgement" :cheers:
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That mt hold switch sticks out and is so easy to flip.. The r09 switch is much closer to perfect.
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Yeah I was going to try to pop that thing out and just use a pin or something to flip it,
but it's not quite that easy.
Pain in the ass, after I set levels I gotta slip the MT
into my bag with the precision of a surgeon or else...
Kinda reminds me of that game "operation" except instead of getting the buzzer going bbbbiizziiiiiittttt!!!!
you get a feeling not unlike that Japanese game show I saw on youtube where if you get the
answer wrong you get whipped in the nuts with one of those whips from the horseraces.
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you get a feeling not unlike that Japanese game show I saw on youtube where if you get the
answer wrong you get whipped in the nuts with one of those whips from the horseraces.
They have the weirdest game shows in Japan. The US is years behind in the game show torture genre.
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that is one thing I love about my 722, EVERYTHING locks except the recording button. and if you hit that it just starts a new seamless track :) When I get one of these, Im def going to find a way to take button out so its not even there! Thanks for the info Eric!
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first time Ive ever done anything like this, but here goes..
I taped one set of the Codetalkers with the v2 in front of the tcm fr2le (rca>1/4), and the other straight into the tcm fr2le (mic in, phantom).. I have created two files, both excerpts of two songs, one from each set...
one file is: tlm170 > v2 > oadeTCMfr2le and the other is: tlm170>oadeTCMfr2le but the files listed below are in no particular order.
http://www.sendspace.com/file/nx8zut (http://www.sendspace.com/file/nx8zut)
http://www.sendspace.com/file/7oy5nm (http://www.sendspace.com/file/7oy5nm)
v2
i'm going to say 1 is v2
i like it much much better then 2 too
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Easiest solution is... never leave a recording device unattended! I'm just amazed... put it in record, toss in bag and walk away, expecting it to be "done" at the end. What do you think you are doing, laundry?
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Easiest solution is... never leave a recording device unattended! I'm just amazed... put it in record, toss in bag and walk away, expecting it to be "done" at the end.
People expect gear to "just work". It shouldn't be necessary to babysit an electronic device.
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Easiest solution is... never leave a recording device unattended! I'm just amazed... put it in record, toss in bag and walk away, expecting it to be "done" at the end. What do you think you are doing, laundry?
Heh, sometimes it sounds like I was doing laundry...<grin>
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:lol: :lol: laundry!!
That's funny! :lol: :lol:
But, I more compare it to fishing.
Actually, I rarely leave my rig unattended. But I often run on stage, or up front in the thick where my gears butted up against the stand, or between my feet, so you can't really set up a table and chair to lay all the gear out, shit gets bumped.
But if I'm at a mind mannered show, with just a few people or other tapers standing around the gear I'll often go up front and have fun. As freelunch said I just expect the gear to work on it's own.
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first time Ive ever done anything like this, but here goes..
I taped one set of the Codetalkers with the v2 in front of the tcm fr2le (rca>1/4), and the other straight into the tcm fr2le (mic in, phantom).. I have created two files, both excerpts of two songs, one from each set...
one file is: tlm170 > v2 > oadeTCMfr2le and the other is: tlm170>oadeTCMfr2le but the files listed below are in no particular order.
http://www.sendspace.com/file/nx8zut (http://www.sendspace.com/file/nx8zut)
http://www.sendspace.com/file/7oy5nm (http://www.sendspace.com/file/7oy5nm)
v2
i'm going to say 1 is v2
i like it much much better then 2 too
I like the longer one, but which ever is which, they are both pretty nice recordings.
One of the benefits of starting to experience the effects of prolonged high volume exposure is that I'm way less able to hear differences. As a consequence, I wouldn't need to run the V2 in front of the fr2-le. 8)
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Number 1 sounds much fulller to me.
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Here are some pics of the FR-2LE situated in my gear bag: http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,94949.0.html
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I have a FR-2LE on the way and i was wondering if or what is the best way to run a patch from it to another recorder while taping/recording(ihp120, i was thinking it had a large storage area if a compact flash puked)i am new to open taping and full size mics and i was skimming the manual but nothing popped out.
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I have a FR-2LE on the way and i was wondering if or what is the best way to run a patch from it to another recorder while taping/recording(ihp120, i was thinking it had a large storage area if a compact flash puked)i am new to open taping and full size mics and i was skimming the manual but nothing popped out.
there are rca outs on the right side of the box
they do a >d >a like a ua5 though i believe
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it has rca outs for monitoring that you could get a RCA>1/8th mini tip cable and run into a Hp120 etc...
but i feel confident about my FR2LE after running a couple other recorders. I feel no need personally to run a back up
and if the FR2LE does fail, then the RCA out feed would prob sound bad/fail too
never had a corrupt file
simple to use
CF is a rock solid memory form I.M.O.
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My first run with my FR2-LE, I ran the RCA out into my Edirol R1 just to see how the quality was and to know if it is worth giving patchers that as a line out. It actually sounded very good. If someone is in need of a patch, they would pull a good tape from this output.
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Sweet, got the Fostex today and also picked up a set of studio projects c4 that was for sale locally , now i just need those kind kables from timp :), i was a little disapointed with the quality of that battery door, as i was opening it i was thinking those tabs are not goint to last and bingo, one snapped, poor design there otherwise a great little unit, i wonder if fostex would send me another one, I also had a question, is there a way to run a single stereo miniplug into this? I have looked but couldn't find anything.
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Citizens Band Radio performing "wagon wheel" at853rx > oade TCM fr2le
http://www.sendspace.com/file/yntu0r
sorry it's an mp3, but I hosted it for the friends I was with last night..
This box ROCKS!!
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Here is a recent 16-bit version of a recording i did with my 461> FR-2LE rig: http://www.archive.org/details/dn2007-12-08.akg460.fr-2le.flac16
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Ran some tests the other day, got a 2000mah rc radio shack battery and charger for 15.00 bucks last week and a 6gb hitachi microdrive on clearance from circuit city for 25.00 and recorded at 24/48 and got 6 full hours, not bad at all imo.
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Here is a recent 16-bit version of a recording i did with my 461> FR-2LE rig: http://www.archive.org/details/dn2007-12-08.akg460.fr-2le.flac16
+T. Sounds good.
I really like my Oade 660, and am trying to deny my sluttish tendencies to lust after this box. >:D
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I made my first recording last night with my new FR2-LE, and what a box. From the sound qulaity to simple ease of use, it has exceeded all my expectations and when it is moded I will only grin again.
So how hot can I run this rig? First recording I kept -12 (green to first yellow on front) and the sound is great but when playing back at home the amp has to be at noon (SOny ES receiver). I am not complaining the quality is great just wondering how far I can push it?
Thanks,
Tim
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i try to hit about -3.
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I made my first recording last night with my new FR2-LE, and what a box. From the sound qulaity to simple ease of use, it has exceeded all my expectations and when it is moded I will only grin again.
So how hot can I run this rig? First recording I kept -12 (green to first yellow on front) and the sound is great but when playing back at home the amp has to be at noon (SOny ES receiver). I am not complaining the quality is great just wondering how far I can push it?
Thanks,
Tim
congrates
i don't have the box, yet
but looking at it i thought the side meters were kinda "loose", seems like it COULD be hard to get levels right where you want them???
but then i noticed the top screen looks like it has more exact meters
i am right about this?
thanks
ps i like to run around -3 too
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I used the top meters for the fine tuning and level setting. I then have the box in my gear bag with the side meters facing up so I can keep an eye on them. Not sure put they look more like a peak hold type and they were prettly accurate but slow.
Will keep playing with the settings, but I ran mostly -12 for the night. My first recording and wanted to make sure I had something. And post editing a 24 bit file will work for me to pum up the volume.
Thanks for the pointers. I do love the sound of this box. Funny thing is when I first got it, I looked at it and thought this is an ugly duckling, nothing fancy but what I found out after using it was really a swan.
Loving it!
Tim
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Looks like I may not get the RC batteries and charger I ordered in time for the Umphrey's run coming up. What sort of runtimes are people getting using the fostex included AA sled with say 4 of those energizer e2 lithiums, or even with some 2500mah nimh's... is this a reliable way to power the thing until I get my RC batteries?
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Looks like I may not get the RC batteries and charger I ordered in time for the Umphrey's run coming up. What sort of runtimes are people getting using the fostex included AA sled with say 4 of those energizer e2 lithiums, or even with some 2500mah nimh's... is this a reliable way to power the thing until I get my RC batteries?
Id say 4+ hrs..
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Looks like I may not get the RC batteries and charger I ordered in time for the Umphrey's run coming up. What sort of runtimes are people getting using the fostex included AA sled with say 4 of those energizer e2 lithiums, or even with some 2500mah nimh's... is this a reliable way to power the thing until I get my RC batteries?
Id say 4+ hrs..
Good to hear, thanks!
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I found the RC battery at a local Radio Shack (did not ask for my zip code-slackers). Battery was on sale 19.99, Charger was $24.99. Ran almost a full four hours and the meter on the deck shows almost a full charge. Another reason I love the thought that went into the design of this sweet little box.
Just offering you this if you need it now.
Tim
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I used the top meters for the fine tuning and level setting. I then have the box in my gear bag with the side meters facing up so I can keep an eye on them. Not sure put they look more like a peak hold type and they were prettly accurate but slow.
If you're using it with the stock firmware, the side meters will act as peak hold's...just so you can make sure you aren't clipping...
but if you upgrade the firmware, they've included the ability to make the side meters either peak hold or full, constant metering.
When it first came out I bought one and bugged Fostex to make it so, and they finally did.
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So if you update the firmware and change that setting, are the meters nice and quick?
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So if you update the firmware and change that setting, are the meters nice and quick?
Yes. I found them to be very quick and accurate.
Another great metering feature with this box is that it has those mic peak LED's as well as the main metering. This lets you see if your mic trim is too high regardless of where you have your main levels set.
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I did not have to upgrade the firmware in order to switch the metering on the side of the unit. Just and FYI for those buying a new unit. The mic peak LEDs are nice indeed.
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damn this box is hot
so has anyone found anything they don't like about it, or i should say flaws?
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damn this box is hot
so has anyone found anything they don't like about it, or i should say flaws?
the battery door, one of the tabs snapped first time i opened it, trying to get fostex to send me another, they are very slow to respond, got one email back saying it would be a while before they could get back with me
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my only gripe is the xfer time. my 671 is 2x faster via usb.
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my only gripe is the xfer time. my 671 is 2x faster via usb.
card reader
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my only gripe is the xfer time. my 671 is 2x faster via usb.
card reader
its not that big a deal. id rather not add another box to my already tiny desk or travel w/ it.
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my only gripe is the xfer time. my 671 is 2x faster via usb.
card reader
its not that big a deal. id rather not add another box to my already tiny desk or travel w/ it.
dude, it's the size of your wallet :P
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my only gripe is the xfer time. my 671 is 2x faster via usb.
card reader
its not that big a deal. id rather not add another box to my already tiny desk or travel w/ it.
dude, it's the size of your wallet :P
that flat?
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my only gripe is the xfer time. my 671 is 2x faster via usb.
card reader
its not that big a deal. id rather not add another box to my already tiny desk or travel w/ it.
dude, it's the size of your wallet :P
you have not my seen my desk. and i can just use yours on the road. :P
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my only gripe is the xfer time. my 671 is 2x faster via usb.
card reader
its not that big a deal. id rather not add another box to my already tiny desk or travel w/ it.
dude, it's the size of your wallet :P
you have not my seen my desk. and i can just use yours on the road. :P
touche
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http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=511992&dllist=1#seeders (http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=511992&dllist=1#seeders)
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I just picked up an fr2le on ebay and wondered if I could run church audio electret mics into this unit while I am saving for some condensor mics. If I had a y adapter to go 1/8" to xlr male could I run ca mics>St-9100 pre > line in on the fr2le (with phantom power off of course)? I am not too swift on the tech stuff, just asking if this will work while I save some dough. Thanks for any input.
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I just picked up an fr2le on ebay and wondered if I could run church audio electret mics into this unit while I am saving for some condensor mics. If I had a y adapter to go 1/8" to xlr male could I run ca mics>St-9100 pre > line in on the fr2le (with phantom power off of course)? I am not too swift on the tech stuff, just asking if this will work while I save some dough. Thanks for any input.
I believe you'd want to run.. bbox>adaptor to go TS>fr2le
The jacks on the side of the fr2le are combination xlr/TS jacks. The xlr runs through the preamp stage, so if you are feeding the fr2le a line level signal (from a bat box), you'd want to use the TS (1/4 inch) jacks.
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Thanks for the info. So the 1/4" ts connections don't go through the fr2le's pre amps? I can use the 9100 pre amp as long as my y adapter goes 1/8" to 1/4 ts. I hope this is right. Just don't want to fry anything and I am no elec. eng. or audio techy.
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Thanks for the info. So the 1/4" ts connections don't go through the fr2le's pre amps? I can use the 9100 pre amp as long as my y adapter goes 1/8" to 1/4 ts. I hope this is right. Just don't want to fry anything and I am no elec. eng. or audio techy.
hehe.. no you won't fry anything.. just keep the phantom on the fr2le off and you'll be fine.. yep.. 1/8" stereo mini > R/L 1/4 TS jacks..
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Thanks eric. When I get the fr2le I will try this and if it sounds good I can sell my r-09 to help fund some condensor mics.
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I've got everything I need for this unit except a larger cf card. What speed am I looking for? New egg has a Transcend 4g 133x card for $31 shipped. This looks great to me but is the speed right? Anyone have any suggestions on cards and/or speeds. I really don't know anything about CF cards. Thanks.
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I've got everything I need for this unit except a larger cf card. What speed am I looking for? New egg has a Transcend 4g 133x card for $31 shipped. This looks great to me but is the speed right? Anyone have any suggestions on cards and/or speeds. I really don't know anything about CF cards. Thanks.
That card should work fine. The research I performed prior to purchasing CF cards for mine indicated that you don't even need a card that fast to record with. I believe the higher speed will help you with the USB transfer time, however.
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I've got everything I need for this unit except a larger cf card. What speed am I looking for? New egg has a Transcend 4g 133x card for $31 shipped. This looks great to me but is the speed right? Anyone have any suggestions on cards and/or speeds. I really don't know anything about CF cards. Thanks.
I just got an Transcend 8g 133x card and it works fine.
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I've got everything I need for this unit except a larger cf card. What speed am I looking for? New egg has a Transcend 4g 133x card for $31 shipped. This looks great to me but is the speed right? Anyone have any suggestions on cards and/or speeds. I really don't know anything about CF cards. Thanks.
I use that card and the 8GB Transcend CF Card with no issues whatsoever. You'll be set. There is a link on the Fostex website that lists the cards that are confirmed to be compatible with the FR2-LE.
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Thanks for the information. I ordered the 4g card from newegg. I saw the list on the Fostex site but it only listed 120x cards for 4 and 8 gig. This will be a great start, maybe get an 8 gig card later.
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can one create tracks on the fly with this machine?
how is it done?
thanks
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The FR-2LE doesn't include a track split function, but it does let you insert cue markers as you record. In playback mode you can jump to a cue marker location.
When you're recording and press the Rec/Pause button, recording stops and the current track is closed. Slide the Rec switch to begin a new track. With the 2 second pre-roll turned on, you should be able to close the track and start a new one with a minimal loss of recording time. This might be useful when a band pauses between songs, for example.
Flintstone
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The FR-2LE doesn't include a track split function, but it does let you insert cue markers as you record. In playback mode you can jump to a cue marker location.
When you're recording and press the Rec/Pause button, recording stops and the current track is closed. Slide the Rec switch to begin a new track. With the 2 second pre-roll turned on, you should be able to close the track and start a new one with a minimal loss of recording time. This might be useful when a band pauses between songs, for example.
Flintstone
just what i needed to know +t
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The FR-2LE doesn't include a track split function, but it does let you insert cue markers as you record. In playback mode you can jump to a cue marker location.
When you're recording and press the Rec/Pause button, recording stops and the current track is closed. Slide the Rec switch to begin a new track. With the 2 second pre-roll turned on, you should be able to close the track and start a new one with a minimal loss of recording time. This might be useful when a band pauses between songs, for example.
Flintstone
just what i needed to know +t
To add to what flintstone stated:
You can add up to 99 cue points during a recording. All you have to do is press the 'mark' button on the top panel, or easier yet, push the 'mark' button on the remote. I would think the latter would be the easiest method during a recording session.
Owner's Manual: http://www.fostexusa.com/support/pdf/fostex/fr2le/fr2le_owners_manual.pdf (http://www.fostexusa.com/support/pdf/fostex/fr2le/fr2le_owners_manual.pdf)
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OK, I've got some questions too:
- how can you sort the files on your computer? The names are something like B20h21m09s16jan2008.wav. I would like to sort based on regular date. Is that what the ".adl" or whatever files are on there for? If so, what packages can read those?
- how can I tell elapsed time of the recording? It just shows the time started I think.
Thanks!
Richard
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- how can you sort the files on your computer? The names are something like B20h21m09s16jan2008.wav. I would like to sort based on regular date. Is that what the ".adl" or whatever files are on there for? If so, what packages can read those?
Was just looking into this myself. Appears setting "FileNameMode" to Reel will leave you w/ easily sortable files.
~Dave
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- how can you sort the files on your computer? The names are something like B20h21m09s16jan2008.wav. I would like to sort based on regular date. Is that what the ".adl" or whatever files are on there for? If so, what packages can read those?
Was just looking into this myself. Appears setting "FileNameMode" to Reel will leave you w/ easily sortable files.
~Dave
Yeah, but reel mode are not dated, right? I like the filenames from the Edirol R4, sortable, with embedded date.
Richard
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Yeah, but reel mode are not dated, right? I like the filenames from the Edirol R4, sortable, with embedded date.
I got:
17012008_001.wav
17012008_002.wav
And the _nnn resets w/ a format of the cf card .....
~Dave
-
Anyone here that's running the fr2le busman-tmod that also ran the busman-modded ua5?
Are there already posts about this subject? Is it fair to compare?
Thanks!
-
Anyone here that's running the fr2le busman-tmod that also ran the busman-modded ua5?
Are there already posts about this subject? Is it fair to compare?
Thanks!
i don't do it
but busman told me the fr2le is an upgrade compaired to the ua5
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OK, I've got some questions too:
- how can you sort the files on your computer? The names are something like B20h21m09s16jan2008.wav. I would like to sort based on regular date. Is that what the ".adl" or whatever files are on there for? If so, what packages can read those?
- how can I tell elapsed time of the recording? It just shows the time started I think.
Thanks!
Richard
Richard
You can make it display the elapsed time & name the files based upon the date of the recording - like homer420 referenced (17012008_001.wav, 17012008_002.wav, etc.). It's all in the menu seetings. Unfortunately, I can't get the online owners manual to open at the moment, and I don't have a hard copy handy.
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You can make it display the elapsed time & name the files based upon the date of the recording - like homer420 referenced (17012008_001.wav, 17012008_002.wav, etc.). It's all in the menu seetings. Unfortunately, I can't get the online owners manual to open at the moment, and I don't have a hard copy handy.
It's too bad they didn't use a yyyymmdd convention for this. ddmmyyyy will only cause problems when the month changes, but it'd be nice ....... /me wonders if Fostex accepts requests for enhancements :)
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It's too bad they didn't use a yyyymmdd convention for this. ddmmyyyy will only cause
ISO date standard is: yyyymmdd
US date standard is: ddmmyyyy
Japan date standard is: ddmmyyyy
guess which they used? ;)
Wayne
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It's too bad they didn't use a yyyymmdd convention for this. ddmmyyyy will only cause problems when the month changes, but it'd be nice ....... /me wonders if Fostex accepts requests for enhancements :)
Didn't Fostex change the action of the front panel meters to be selectable based on user request? Perhaps if enough folks request a selectable date format it will be released in a future firmware upgrade.
-
It's too bad they didn't use a yyyymmdd convention for this. ddmmyyyy will only cause problems when the month changes, but it'd be nice ....... /me wonders if Fostex accepts requests for enhancements :)
Didn't Fostex change the action of the front panel meters to be selectable based on user request? Perhaps if enough folks request a selectable date format it will be released in a future firmware upgrade.
Certainly can't hurt to ask. I just posted a RFE to the forums:
http://www.fostexusa.com/mercuryboard/index.php?a=topic&t=4009
Any other avenues we could try to send the request?
~Dave
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Perhaps posting the same request to the form in the "contact us" link on Fostex's website would also be a good place to make the request for a selectable date format option.
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Perhaps posting the same request to the form in the "contact us" link on Fostex's website would also be a good place to make the request for a selectable date format option.
done 8)
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What all is included in the Busman T-mod? Does it do seamless splits? And how does a stock unit sound? I'm mighty tempted to strip down my rig a little bit, sell off my Korg and get the FR-2LE. I'd like my unit to run double duty as both a taping machine as well as location sound (film/video shoots, ambience, sound effect, crap like that). I figure the FR-2LE would be a little more compatible with both those goals.
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What all is included in the Busman T-mod? Does it do seamless splits? And how does a stock unit sound? I'm mighty tempted to strip down my rig a little bit, sell off my Korg and get the FR-2LE. I'd like my unit to run double duty as both a taping machine as well as location sound (film/video shoots, ambience, sound effect, crap like that). I figure the FR-2LE would be a little more compatible with both those goals.
Stock unit sounds pretty good. Very low noise, great for ambient and/or acoustic recording for sure.
Sound is pretty good too.
For ambient recording, I recommend mods though, for ultimate transparency.
Richard
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What all is included in the Busman T-mod? Does it do seamless splits? And how does a stock unit sound? I'm mighty tempted to strip down my rig a little bit, sell off my Korg and get the FR-2LE. I'd like my unit to run double duty as both a taping machine as well as location sound (film/video shoots, ambience, sound effect, crap like that). I figure the FR-2LE would be a little more compatible with both those goals.
no seamless splits. set it to split at 4gb and never hit it. :)
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What all is included in the Busman T-mod? Does it do seamless splits? And how does a stock unit sound? I'm mighty tempted to strip down my rig a little bit, sell off my Korg and get the FR-2LE. I'd like my unit to run double duty as both a taping machine as well as location sound (film/video shoots, ambience, sound effect, crap like that). I figure the FR-2LE would be a little more compatible with both those goals.
no seamless splits. set it to split at 4gb and never hit it. :)
This is true, but if you're going 24/96 You may wish to do a quick stop/start at an opportune time just in case.
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Well, I generally only run at 24/48 when I'm recording WAV, so 4 gigs should be more than adequate for my general taping needs.
By all accounts, this sounds excellent. As soon as I can juggle around some money, I'll throw the Korg into the YS, buy a stock FR-2LE, mess around with that for a little while, and then send it in for the T-mod. I'm psyched.
Yes, I'm a gear whore. I just never get to have all the gear at once :)
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so the fr2le does NOT doe seemless split? i wasn't aware of that
so you set the file size limit to what you want, i assume 2gb and 4gb - any other choices?
does it start a new file automatically or just stop when you hit the file size limit?
if it starts a new file, how much time missing?
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so the fr2le does NOT doe seemless split? i wasn't aware of that
so you set the file size limit to what you want, i assume 2gb and 4gb - any other choices?
does it start a new file automatically or just stop when you hit the file size limit?
if it starts a new file, how much time missing?
it stops recording when it hits the mark you set to. so, like i said, set it to 4 and dont hit it. there's plently of programs that will let you open files larger than 2gb.
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so the fr2le does NOT doe seemless split? i wasn't aware of that
so you set the file size limit to what you want, i assume 2gb and 4gb - any other choices?
does it start a new file automatically or just stop when you hit the file size limit?
if it starts a new file, how much time missing?
it stops recording when it hits the mark you set to. so, like i said, set it to 4 and dont hit it. there's plently of programs that will let you open files larger than 2gb.
like? any that can just split at 2GB or less and then one could open in WL 5?
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so the fr2le does NOT doe seemless split? i wasn't aware of that
so you set the file size limit to what you want, i assume 2gb and 4gb - any other choices?
does it start a new file automatically or just stop when you hit the file size limit?
if it starts a new file, how much time missing?
it stops recording when it hits the mark you set to. so, like i said, set it to 4 and dont hit it. there's plently of programs that will let you open files larger than 2gb.
like? any that can just split at 2GB or less and then one could open in WL 5?
cdwav
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It's not ideal for our use of course but that's correct Just use CD-Wav if you want to split it up. Or the new Reaper DAW will open it no problem at all for doing processing prior to splitting and will use all your favorite plugins. The psycho dither on that system sounds pretty damn nice as well. I haven't had a file crap on me yet using the machine so if this is part of the robust file structure then so be it.
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anybody know what CF cards Fostex reccomends for this unit?
thanks
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i use a a 4gb kingston 45x w/ zero problems.
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anybody know what CF cards Fostex reccomends for this unit?
thanks
http://www.fostexinternational.com/docs/pro_support/Operation_CF_20070510.pdf (http://www.fostexinternational.com/docs/pro_support/Operation_CF_20070510.pdf)
Their recommendations aren't a lot of help, IMO. The only large cards that they have verified are the 2GB, 4GB & 8GB Transcend 120x's. I've gotten better recommendations through other users' experiences.
I currently have a couple of 4GB SanDisk Ultra II's that have worked fine so far (I believe the Ultra II's are 60x).
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bags bags bags? the portabrace is nice, but steep. anyone have any experience with these or other suggestions... id like something rugged/padded that will run the machine from inside with ease.
http://www.dv247.com/invt/46534/ (http://www.dv247.com/invt/46534/)
theres the other one that i cant find listed below.
any suggestions are great.
luke
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Don't know if this one has any padding as Fostex doesn't have much info about it. But the price is right - $20.
http://www.fostexusa.com/store/cart.php?target=product&product_id=587&category_id=79
Kata Koala 1 works but is larger than you will need. It's overkill for my FR2LE and is almost perfect for my FR2 (not quite tall enough). With a little creative use of velcro, I'm sure I could run both in it easily.
http://www.kata-bags.com/Item.asp?pid=70&cid=17&perentId=1&ProdLine=1
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bags bags bags? the portabrace is nice, but steep. anyone have any experience with these or other suggestions... id like something rugged/padded that will run the machine from inside with ease.
http://www.dv247.com/invt/46534/ (http://www.dv247.com/invt/46534/)
theres the other one that i cant find listed below.
any suggestions are great.
luke
I thought this was funny Fostex FR2 LE-BAG
It's French!
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I'm also looking for a nice bag but the $20 bag seems kind of cheap since it even says its made of plastic/canvas bag.
But then again that Kata bas is about $190. I guess you do get wheat you pay for. Maybe modding a camera bag would be easier and affordable.
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sorry for all the q's, but trying to get a handle of the machine...
anyone use 133x cards in this babie? Newegg is sold out of the kingston 45x.
thanks
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sorry for all the q's, but trying to get a handle of the machine...
anyone use 133x cards in this babie? Newegg is sold out of the kingston 45x.
thanks
Check out the posts on page 20 & 21.
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sorry for all the q's, but trying to get a handle of the machine...
anyone use 133x cards in this babie? Newegg is sold out of the kingston 45x.
thanks
Check out the posts on page 20 & 21.
oops, missed that. +t
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I will hopefully be taping my first show friday night and had a question about levels. Where do you set your levels when starting the recording? I know this will vary depending on band or venue, but let's just say it is a rock show in a smaller (1500 people) venue. I thought I read somewhere to set the recording level about 3:00 and the trims at about 1:00. Anyone have any suggestions for me? Thanks.
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i run the little knobs at noon to 1 o' clock and dial it in w/ the big knob.
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+T Backatchya
I will hopefully be taping my first show friday night and had a question about levels. Where do you set your levels when starting the recording? I know this will vary depending on band or venue, but let's just say it is a rock show in a smaller (1500 people) venue. I thought I read somewhere to set the recording level about 3:00 and the trims at about 1:00. Anyone have any suggestions for me? Thanks.
I'd follow Dre's advice, since he has been using it in the field a bunch.
That said, it seems like the mod made my input stage (trim knobs) more sensitive, so the advice given on this question may change depending on whether you are running a stock unit or modded unit. Can anyone else with a modded unit confirm this?
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Forgot to add that my unit is still a stock unit. If it matters I am running Busman mics with it. I'm still not sure what the difference between Recoding level and trim level is.
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Another related question - do the trim knobs always pass signal even when at minimum setting? - or do they go all the way down to nothing?
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Another related question - do the trim knobs always pass signal even when at minimum setting? - or do they go all the way down to nothing?
yes they do..... only had to do it once(with good results) when running onstage with a *very* loud band...
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Forgot to add that my unit is still a stock unit. If it matters I am running Busman mics with it. I'm still not sure what the difference between Recoding level and trim level is.
Someone correct me if I'm wrong.....but, this is how I understand it.
The trim knobs adjust the mic input, and determines the mic signal strength that is fed into the preamp stage.
If the red light is on (or blinks) for the mic input then you are overloading the input signal to the pre and will get brickwalling / distortion.
The recording level adjustment dials utilize the preamp stage to add gain to the mic signal, as needed, to get good levels.
Another related question - do the trim knobs always pass signal even when at minimum setting? - or do they go all the way down to nothing?
As taken from the Team FR-2LE thread:
I know the "trim" controls go from -50 to -10dB levels, ie., 0 to 40dB gain.
I just got burned the other night with brickwall (or some other) distortion so want to clear this up.
Richard
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Forgot to add that my unit is still a stock unit. If it matters I am running Busman mics with it. I'm still not sure what the difference between Recoding level and trim level is.
Someone correct me if I'm wrong.....but, this is how I understand it.
The trim knobs adjust the mic input, and determines the mic signal strength that is fed into the preamp stage.
If the red light is on (or blinks) for the mic input then you are overloading the input signal to the pre and will get brickwalling / distortion.
The recording level adjustment dials utilize the preamp stage to add gain to the mic signal, as needed, to get good levels.
Another related question - do the trim knobs always pass signal even when at minimum setting? - or do they go all the way down to nothing?
As taken from the Team FR-2LE thread:
I know the "trim" controls go from -50 to -10dB levels, ie., 0 to 40dB gain.
I just got burned the other night with brickwall (or some other) distortion so want to clear this up.
Richard
It seems to work fine under very loud settings for regular mics (eg., Nevaton MCE400). I was getting brickwall for *very* hot mics, in particular, a Beyerdynamic MC833. Not sure how the Beyerdynamic MC930s would do. Will know soon ...
Richard
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I'm thinking of starting both the trim and recording levels at about 1:00 and adjust from there.
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I will hopefully be taping my first show friday night and had a question about levels. Where do you set your levels when starting the recording? I know this will vary depending on band or venue, but let's just say it is a rock show in a smaller (1500 people) venue. I thought I read somewhere to set the recording level about 3:00 and the trims at about 1:00. Anyone have any suggestions for me? Thanks.
Just made my first FR-2LE (stock) recording last week. Started w/ the trim knobs between 11:00 and 12:00 and the level dial at about 2:30 but ended up having to back them both off a slight bit. I think I ended up around 10:00 on the trim knobs and about 1:00 on the level dial. This was for Big Head Todd in an approx 1000 person capacity theatre ......
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Thanks for that info homer420. That gives me a better idea where to start.
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i copy the CF card USB through a CF reader on to my mac. When i import the audio file into audacity, the cure points are nowhere to be found. there is also a blank document next to the wave files on the card/that came off the card that it seems should have the cue point data. do i need to d/l some software or am i doing something wrong?
thanks
luke
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I pulled my first recording with the fr2le(stock) and busman mics last night. I ended up with the trim knobs at ~11:00 and the recording level knobs at ~12:30. I think I ran it a little low but the recording came out nice. I normalized in audacity and the show sounds fine to my ears. If I end up modding it, I guess I can run it a little hotter. Anyway just wanted to say thanks for the input from everyone and I am really happy with this as my first rig.
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this bag works great. its got some padding, not to much though. The front pocket holds a spare RC battery and my compact flash card 4 cf holder.
pretty nice bag and it can be worn around the waste if need be.
http://www.rei.com/product/747530?vcat=REI_SEARCH (http://www.rei.com/product/747530?vcat=REI_SEARCH)
check it out. i would be curious to see what you all are using.
luke
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anyone know
where or who has the lowest price on these?
does busman sell these direct, or still only mod purchased elsewhere FR2-LE's?
also
is anyone using external power supplies? which ones?
and or
what internal AA rechargeable are you using?
thanx
I am really considering this as an all in one box... with a busman mod to be added
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Lowest price seems to be from an ebay seller. Do a search there or scroll back to find the seller.
< currently no cheap ones on ebay, scroll back to find a link, seller is something like onlynewitems/newitemsonly from Albany NY; sorry, don't recall the sellers id exactly - found it, new-items-only http://cgi3.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&userid=new-items-only check back as there may be more listed in the future >
You won't need an external power source as you can use a 7.2 volt RC battery internally, connector is built in and if you use AAs, alkaline or rechargeables, they fit in a sled that is the same size as the rc battery and the sled has the rc conector built in. You select which type battery from one of the menus at startup.
Don't know whether busman sells these or only modifies other-sourced units.
It's a pretty nice all-in-one.
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hey
flipp
thanx
I am still a bit cautious of ebay sellers...
wondering if any other places (audio gear sellers) not on ebay would have a lower price I see the going rate seems to be $599
is the RC batt something that fostex makes? or is it like a rat shack product
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hey
flipp
thanx
I am still a bit cautious of ebay sellers...
wondering if any other places (audio gear sellers) not on ebay would have a lower price I see the going rate seems to be $599
is the RC batt something that fostex makes? or is it like a rat shack product
more to the side of "like a rat shack product" but not really, as there are quite a few companies that build the batteries that will work with the fr2le.. you should get something like this to power it..
http://www.batteries.com/productprofile.asp?appid=360462 (http://www.batteries.com/productprofile.asp?appid=360462)
and a charger.. so here is a link to a battery AND charger in a package deal..
http://www.onlybatteries.com/showitem.asp?ItemID=14928.55&cat1=12&uid=1669 (http://www.onlybatteries.com/showitem.asp?ItemID=14928.55&cat1=12&uid=1669)
of course, you can probably find it cheaper somewhere else with some research... I merely posted the first link to a charger and batter combo pack I found..
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hey
flipp
thanx
I am still a bit cautious of ebay sellers...
wondering if any other places (audio gear sellers) not on ebay would have a lower price I see the going rate seems to be $599
is the RC batt something that fostex makes? or is it like a rat shack product
more to the side of "like a rat shack product" but not really, as there are quite a few companies that build the batteries that will work with the fr2le.. you should get something like this to power it..
http://www.batteries.com/productprofile.asp?appid=360462 (http://www.batteries.com/productprofile.asp?appid=360462)
and a charger.. so here is a link to a battery AND charger in a package deal..
http://www.onlybatteries.com/showitem.asp?ItemID=14928.55&cat1=12&uid=1669 (http://www.onlybatteries.com/showitem.asp?ItemID=14928.55&cat1=12&uid=1669)
of course, you can probably find it cheaper somewhere else with some research... I merely posted the first link to a charger and batter combo pack I found..
Hi there.
I've also been able to power this device *externally* with a Walmart 9V battery. It says 12V, but 9V works fine (for me, at least).
This was a temporary solution while I ordered RC batteries.
Richard
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I believe the $599 is Fostex's MAP (minimum advertised price). While dealers are free to sell it for less in order for them to remain authorized dealers (for Fostex in this case) they can't advertise it for less. You can call some dealers and see if you can get a better price but many will only match what other dealers sell it for.
Try Full Compass, Sweetwater is another good place for many items but they don't carry Fostex. You might also find returned FR2LEs that are sold for less than new. I got mine that way but won't recommend the place I got it and whether there are used ones in stock at the moment I don't know. You can read about my experience acquiring mine here http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,62698.msg1223643.html#msg1223643
I believe several folks here on ts have purchased from new items only. I haven't seen anyone mention anything negative about them but I'll let those folks speak for themselves.
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hey
flipp & eric.B
thanx
I am aware of MAP pricing...
I like to deal with sweetwater great folks, also I have purchased from Full compass, thats where I got my Fostex D5 DAT, still working since 97! and it plays dats great!
on sweetwater's site when searching for Fostex I got this
We can special-order any Fostex products you need.
Call us toll-free at 1-800-222-XXXX. Our professional, knowledgeable Sales Engineers can assist you with all of your audio requirements.
I have an email out to my rep there... so I'll see
I'll need to page back to see what CF cards are working for folks, and dose any one know of where to get a good and low price on a 4 or 8gig CF card?
I think that normally B&H photo would be a good source... any other suggestions?
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oh
I just searched
and found that new egg has the 8gb transend here
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820208340&ATT=20-208-340&CMP=OTC-pr1c3grabb3r&nm_mc=OTC-pr1c3grabb3r&cm_mmc=OTC-pr1c3grabb3r-_-Memory+(Flash+Memory)-_-Transcend-_-20208340
for under $$39
not bad
while the transend site says it lists for $166
Ouch!
new egg must be a reliable dealer? yes?
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Looks like Sweetwater has changed their policy. Last time I checked with my sales rep he indicated they did not carry Fostex but were looking into the possibility of adding them; guess they compromised.
Check newegg as well as B&H for CF cards. Several folks have reported no problems with the A-Data cards and newegg seems to have them on sale regularly. Only brand I recall seeing anyone mention having a problem with is one of the larger Transcends but that was at a high rate (24/96 I think and it may have been in a Marantz rather than a Fostex). I have had no problems with 2 SanDisk Ultra IIs or a pqi hi speed (all 4gb) in either the FR2 or the LE at rates up to 24/176.4.
< I've had no problems dealing with newegg; good prices, quick shipping and no prblems returning the one item that arrived DOA due to a silica gel packet rupturing and the silica nodules getting into a drive. As soon as I gave them the tracking number they shipped a new drive the same day, didn't even wait for it to get back to them. >
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NewEgg rules. Got my 8GB and 4GB Transcend 133X CF cards from them.
Super fast shipping, and great deals. I buy almost all of my computer parts from them as well.
Also the 133X Transcend CF cards work perfectly in the FR2-LE. No problems at all here (although I've only been out once with them).
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NewEgg rules. Got my 8GB and 4GB Transcend 133X CF cards from them.
Super fast shipping, and great deals. I buy almost all of my computer parts from them as well.
Also the 133X Transcend CF cards work perfectly in the FR2-LE. No problems at all here (although I've only been out once with them).
Ya, newegg.com is the shiznit. I use that 8gb card and have run 24/96 with no issues whatsoever. My 4gb Transcend card is only 120x, but no issues with that either.
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I have been doing business with Newegg for many years and nothing but positives. Over the holidays bought some RAM for wofe's Dell, Dell site said it had four slots for RAM, only had 2. So I had to return the RAM and they gave me a full refund, no restoking charge.
I also bought my FR2LE from B&H and paid $549 but got a 4 gig 133X memory card with it and free shipping. I know I could have done better price wise but you know when you want it, you want it NOW!
I am so very happy with the deck. I am about to make 2, possibly three shows back to back and will report how it does. I have the RC battery and charger and agree it is the way to go, one nice self contained package. I have my new Peluso's to break in, hee hee.
Tim
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great replies..
new egg sounds like a good company...
also
anyone ever use the limiter on this baby?
like for acoustic shows where the crowd cheers are louder than the music?
is it good , or should it be avoided?
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I also bought my FR2LE from B&H and paid $549 but got a 4 gig 133X memory card with it and free shipping. I know I could have done better price wise but you know when you want it, you want it NOW!
I have the RC battery and charger and agree it is the way to go, one nice self contained package.
Tim
so did you deal with some one direct at B&H?
B&H advertise the (MAP) price of $599 on their site, with only a 128MB card.
where did you get your RC battery?
thanx
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FWIW I got mine from newitemsonly on ebay for $415 shipped. It was brand new, unopened and I have had no problems with it. I also got a 4 gig CF card (transcend 133x) for about $30 shipped from newegg.
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FWIW I got mine from newitemsonly on ebay for $415 shipped. It was brand new, unopened and I have had no problems with it. I also got a 4 gig CF card (transcend 133x) for about $30 shipped from newegg.
drewski
thanx
for the info...
I noticed that new items only
does not always stock this unit...
peace
limiter use anyone?
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Howdy folks. Wanted to share my first recording w/ my new (stock) FR-2LE ....
http://www.archive.org/details/bhtm2008-01-22.mbho.flac16
http://www.archive.org/details/bhtm2008-01-22.mbho.flac24
I have to say I'm very pleased w/ how it turned out. No problems w/ going 24/28 to an A-Data 4GB "speedy" CF card .....
Source: MBHO 603/KA200N's -> HYDRA cables -> FR-2LE (24/48)
Lineage: normalized, dithered and split via audacity
Enjoy!
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Fostex has released a firmware update, version 1.10. Read about it here
http://www.fostexinternational.com/docs/pro_support/FR2LE_V110_supplement.pdf
The update adds 3 new features.
-Mono recording is now possible (except when recording 192K MP3)
-Info about manufacturer and serial number of the Compactflash card is available
-Metering can be set to peak or continuous.
No word about what bug fixes might be contained in the release.
Flintstone
Nice!
They told me that I was the first to ask for a change in the front-panel metering...Glad they ended up doing it. At least now you have the choice! Mono recording is a no brainer also.
I don't think any bugs have been found, just little tweaks like this that make it more user-friendly.
"-Metering can be set to peak or continuous."
Can you please explain to me the what this means?
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"-Metering can be set to peak or continuous."
Can you please explain to me the what this means?
This setting applies to the meters on the side, and not the top (the top meters are always continuous).
Peak Setting = The meters on the side will display where your peaks are hitting, and do not depict what your levels are doing on an instant basis (i.e. does not depict quick changes on the levels, but more of an 'average' of where your peaks are).
Continuous Setting = The meters on the side will display exactly what the levels are doing at any given moment (i.e. depicts exactly what the signal being fed to the recorder looks like at any given moment).
I don't know of anyone that prefers the Peak Setting for live recording, FWIW. If so, maybe they will speak up.
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"-Metering can be set to peak or continuous."
Can you please explain to me the what this means?
This setting applies to the meters on the side, and not the top (the top meters are always continuous).
Peak Setting = The meters on the side will display where your peaks are hitting, and do not depict what your levels are doing on an instant basis (i.e. does not depict quick changes on the levels, but more of an 'average' of where your peaks are).
Continuous Setting = The meters on the side will display exactly what the levels are doing at any given moment (i.e. depicts exactly what the signal being fed to the recorder looks like at any given moment).
I don't know of anyone that prefers the Peak Setting for live recording, FWIW. If so, maybe they will speak up.
Does the "peak" setting give the peak all the time, or just at selected intervals. If it gives peak all the time (just slow to go down again), that is what I'm looking for. I used it the other night. Cool that I could just look over and see the peak levels.
Richard
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the top meters are the way to go for anything exact
the side rather you are on peak or (whats actually called, in the manual) level only show -24/12/6/3/over
so you could be at -4 for example and only the -6 will light up
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Richard-
I believe peak displays the peaks at selected intervals, but I'm not positive since I've got my setting on continuous. (Edit: I haven't used the peak setting enough to have an opinion.)
willndmb-
Good point about the side meters. I have found that the side meters are not as accurate as the top meters (and yes, I have the side meters set to continuous). Others have reported the same conclusion. I have seen brief clipping on the top meters and the side meters did not indicate clipping. I have found it best to keep the -6 lit up almost continuously on the side meters, and let the -3 only blink some. I have always preferred to run my levels hot, and when I first got the FR2LE I thought running the way I described above to be too conservative. The end result turns out great, however. Basically, I'm trying to say that it is not hard to clip if you try to run hot by only looking at the side levels. If you want to run hot & see the most accurate meters, better use the top. Now that I can run 24 bit, I need to change my mindset on running hot levels anyway.
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the top meters are the way to go for anything exact
the side rather you are on peak or (whats actually called, in the manual) level only show -24/12/6/3/over
so you could be at -4 for example and only the -6 will light up
Doesn't the update to 1.10 update make the side (and by side I take that as the top side when the unit is
on a surface with the main screen facing you) levels replicate the front screen levels and the actual
sound input when set to "Level"/or continuous as the term signifies...?? I shouldn't have to worry about the
main screen levels if I am running "level" with the 1.10 update; correct?
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For the most accurate levels, use the LCD screen, not the LEDs. The LEDs may be more convenient, especially when the LE is in a bag but they don't have the accuracy of the LCD screen. Once you are used to the results at various levels, you shouldn't have to check the meters very often anyway.
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the top meters are the way to go for anything exact
the side rather you are on peak or (whats actually called, in the manual) level only show -24/12/6/3/over
so you could be at -4 for example and only the -6 will light up
Doesn't the update to 1.10 update make the side (and by side I take that as the top side when the unit is
on a surface with the main screen facing you) levels replicate the front screen levels and the actual
sound input when set to "Level"/or continuous as the term signifies...?? I shouldn't have to worry about the
main screen levels if I am running "level" with the 1.10 update; correct?
Top = has the display screen depicting the main levels & where the menu buttons are located
Side = the narrow part where the secondary (side) levels are, as well as the trim knobs & level knobs
You are partially correct. The update allows you to set the side levels to "level" (continuous) so that they behave like the top levels. However, as willndmb pointed out, the side levels only have lights for -24/12/6/3/over. You could be running at -4, and only -6 would be lit. You could be running at -2 or -1 and only -3 would be lit (i.e. you would be running hotter than you think). Also, as I previously stated, on my unit the side meters are not as accurate as the top meters (others have reported this as well, so I don't think it is just a quirk with my FR2LE).
I suggest setting up in front of your stereo and watching the realtionship between the top meters & side meters. I have seen clipping on the top meters that did not show up on the side meters. As suggested, use the top meters for the most accurate adjustments or if you want to run really hot. The best thing you can do is to learn how the side meters perform in relation to the top meters so you know how you want your side meters to look in the field when the FR2LE is sitting on its side in a gear bag and you are recording. Running 'fairly conservative' on the side meters does not equate to actually running 'fairly conservative' on the top meters (at least on my recorder). Not to be repetitive, but the top meters are dead accurate and the side meters are not (at least on my recorder). Set up in front of the stereo and you should be able to see what I mean.
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We've passed page 25 now. That's the limit here, so please post anything FR2LE related to the Team FR2LE thread here:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,92774.0.html
Whoever started this thread...please lock her up.