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Gear / Technical Help => Recording Gear => Topic started by: jibooer on August 02, 2010, 05:17:55 PM

Title: PMD661 - S/PDIF (D.IN) via outboard - how hot?
Post by: jibooer on August 02, 2010, 05:17:55 PM
Just wondering what kind of levels people are sending to the PMD-661 via digital-in. I am curious to know how hot of a signal it can take.

Thanks in advance :)
Title: Re: PMD661 - S/PDIF (D.IN) via outboard - how hot?
Post by: JasonSobel on August 02, 2010, 05:38:42 PM
I don't really understand the question.  When using the digital input, all levels are set upstream, via whatever pre-amp and A/D converter you are using.  The max level is 0dBfs.  All decks with digital inputs function in this manner.
Title: Re: PMD661 - S/PDIF (D.IN) via outboard - how hot?
Post by: jibooer on August 03, 2010, 07:36:13 PM
Jason, thanks for the reply...my bad for the poorly worded question.

 I should have just asked for fellow owners to share their field experiences when using the 661 as a bit-bucket and to share advice.
Title: Re: PMD661 - S/PDIF (D.IN) via outboard - how hot?
Post by: JasonSobel on August 04, 2010, 06:38:48 AM
well, while most shows I tape are using the XLR inputs on the PMD-661, I have a fair amount of experience with the digital input, both from transferring DATs at home, and also, on occasion, I've borrowed a V3 and AD2K+ (which, by the way, is an awesome combo).  The 661 works great as a bit-bucket.  one thing to keep in mind is that if you move the level knob on the deck while recording from the S/PDIF, a little message pops up that says "can not..."  The message only stays on screen for a few seconds, and doesn't do anything bad to the recording.  it basically serves as a reminder that the level knob does nothing and all levels must be set on the outboard pre-amp and A/D converter.  not really a big deal, but I know it's taken one person by surprise who didn't know what it meant (or if there was a problem with the SDHC card or whatever).  The deck uses less power when recording with the S/PDIF input (compared to the XLR inputs with phantom power on), so batteries will last a bit longer.  a set of NiMH rechargeable AA's should easily get you 5-6 hours when using the S/PDIF input...  I don't know what else to say, it's a great deck to use with the S/PDIF input, never had a problem..
Title: Re: PMD661 - S/PDIF (D.IN) via outboard - how hot?
Post by: jibooer on August 09, 2010, 10:43:27 AM
I experimented Friday night seeing Powerhouse Sound (Ken Vandermark, Nate Mcbride, w/ Herndon and Parker from Tortoise) running SP-C4's omni + AT-822 > UA-5 > PMD-661 (24/48) and it worked like a charm, and the pull frickin' smokes!