CDR830 BurnIT & CDR830 BurnIT PLUS FAQ

• Are there any special CD media requirements for the BurnIT machines?

  When choosing appropriate media to use in the CDR830, it is essential to take into account this product is, like all professional audio CD recorders, a real-time burner. This means that the recorder will burn at 1x speed. Therefore, to obtain the best quality recordings, and to ensure a longer life of the laser assembly, it is essential that low speed media is used in the CDR830. Most computer type CDR drives use high speed CDR media (up to 52x) which are not suitable for use with this product.

  We recommend that low speed 1x to 24x media should be used in the CDR830. If high speed discs are used in the CDR830, the recordings may contain audible and uncorrectable errors.

  There are several other problems caused by burning high-speed media. The CDR830 will fail to recognize the disc and give a “check disc” message on the display. Also, discs may not finalize properly. Consequently, high-speed media will shorten the life of laser assembly.

  So to avoid future problems and to achieve optimum results, we strongly recommend using only low speed media in the CDR830 such as the following HHB Professional Recording Media products:

  HHB CDR74 / HHB CDR74Gold / HHB CDR80 / HHB CDR80IP / HHB CDR80BulkIP / HHB CDR80BulkThermal. Also we recommend using Mitsui 1x to 12x media and Apogee Gold media.

• Can I record data files from a PC using the 830?

  If the PC application supports streaming data via SPDIF, then yes. The 830 is designed for audio recording only – creating CD-DA discs. Be aware that audio data backed up in this fashion can only be reloaded into the originating application. The 830 does not produce CD-ROM format discs.

• Can I create a 20- or 24-bit CD since the converters are 20- and 24-bit?

  No. The CD-DA (Red Book) standard dictates that 16-bit audio be stored on the disc. The 830 includes built-in dithering to convert the 24-bit signal to 16-bits before encoding to disc.

• Are the 830 burners compatible with 'music-only' CDs?

  Yes. It is important to note that these types of audio-only or music-only CDs are not required for use with the HHB CD recorders, but as a general rule, they will work. The 830 uses standard data (or audio optimized) CD-Rs and CD-RW discs.

• Some of my recording equipment has digital out via coaxial and optical connectors, but the 830 does not recognize the input when selected. What’s the problem?

  There can be many reasons for this ranging from faulty cables, incorrect input/output selection, poor quality transmitter/receiver, incorrect impedance cable, etc. The 830 has low jitter, transmit/receive circuitry that exactly meet the requirements of the IEC60958 type 2 interface (SPDIF). Some equipment, such as the Panasonic SV3800 DAT recorder, allows IEC60958 type 1 (professional format often referred to as AES/EBU) to be output on the consumer format, unbalanced electrical interface (e.g. coaxial, optical). This is often the cause of communication problems between machines, for instance, when a user wants to copy a DAT to a CD with all the start ID’s converted to CD track starts (p/q codes). This is because the professional format does not pass this type of sub-code.

• What are music-only blank CDRs and is the 830 compatible with this type of CD?

  Music-only blank CDRs often known as consumer blank CDRs are compatible with the 830. The only difference between these discs and any other blank disc is that they have pre-stamped information which makes them useable in consumer CDR audio recorders. Consumer CDR recorders cannot use data or professional discs.

• Can I connect the 830 to my computer and copy/create data CDs?

  The 830 creates CD-DA (Red Book) discs only. If the PC application supports streaming data via SPDIF, then audio data can be copied.

• Can I record at better-than-real-time speeds (e.g. 6x, 12x, etc.)?

  No. The HHB range of CDR recorders is intended primarily for audio mastering and 1x audio copies, just like DAT recorders or any other mixdown recorder.

• Is it possible to synchronize multiple 830s together and record multiple CDs?

  Yes, by daisy-chaining together multiple machines using SPDIF. Using correct impedance coax (75ohm) or optical cables, connect the SPDIF source (CD, DAT, MD etc) to the digital input of the first machine, then the digital output of the first machine to the digital input of the second machine, the digital output of the second machine to the digital input of the third machine etc. Ensure blank CDR’s are loaded and then press Digital Synchro (Al Sync or 1 Sync depending on your requirements) on all machines. Allow the machines to go through their setup routine (Optimum power calibration) and confirm that all machines detected the source during setup (i.e. CD, DAT, MD, etc). Press Play on the source machine and in theory all machines should automatically start recording together as if they were one!

  Alternatively, use a digital distribution amplifier that splits the digital input signal into multiple digital output signals with the correct electrical characteristics. Each digital output can then be routed to an 830 input.

• What is finalizing?

  The finalize process first writes a lead-out region, then scans across to the inner diameter to write the lead-in region in which the Red Book format Table of Contents (TOC) is stored.

• How long does it take to finalize a completely filled CD?

  The amount of audio on a disc does not determine the time it takes to finalize a disc. The 830 has 2x speed finalizing, so the process takes only 2-minutes.

• Does the 830 have a universal or switchable power supply for use with different worldwide voltage requirements?

  The 830 is supplied in 2 versions – one for the 110-120vac requirement and one for the 220-240vac requirement. Both machines use the same switch mode PSU.

• Can the rack ears be removed on the 830?

  The 830 was designed for the rack ears to remain attached to the unit, so it is not recommended that the rack ears be removed.

PORTADISC FAQ

• When I connect my MDP 500 to Windows XP via the USB port. I have reviewed the PDF document titled "Connecting the MDP500 to a PC via the USB Cable". The configuration of the MDP 500 goes fine, but when I connect the USB cable, I ultimately get a message on my computer "USB device not recognized"

  When this message pop up, use a POWERED or PASSIVE USB Hub, connect it between the MDP500 and your PC, Apple Mac uses plug the MDP500 via the USB connector on the rear of the keyboard. This will boost the USB signal, enough to be detected by the computer. (this usually resolves any connection issues).

• What is the latest firmware version?

  The latest software for the PORTADISC MDP 500 is version 1.50. The version is shown briefly after power up on the MDP’s boot-up page. If your MDP contains a version other than v1.50, contact your dealer for instructions on getting your MDP updated to the current release.

• What is ATRAC 4.5 encoding?

  ATRAC stands for Adaptive TRansform Acoustic Coding and was developed for SONY to be used in the MiniDisc format. ATRAC allows up to 80 minutes of stereo audio to be stored on a disc much smaller than a 12cm diameter CD. It achieves this by reducing the data rate to and from disc to approximately 20% of the 44.1, 16 bit PCM data rate associated with CD. ATRAC uses various psycho-acoustical phenomena such as masking to remove audio data that is considered to be undetectable by the human ear. The first versions of the ATRAC algorithm were not too effective, but version 4.5 has reached a stage of maturity whereby most find it is extremely difficult or near impossible to tell a difference between the audio quality of the compressed and the uncompressed signals. One should not confuse ATRAC 4.5 with the more recent ATRAC3. ATRAC3 uses 10:1 (MDLP2) or 20:1 (MDLP4) compression as compared to the ATRAC 4.5, which uses 5:1 compression and is much higher quality. ATRAC 3 relates more closely to MP3 quality.

• What is EFM (Eight to Fourteen Modulation)?

  The EFM modulation technique is used in the MD format to convert 8-bit encoded data into 14-bit data. This is done to create an adequate pit/land density ratio that will provide optimum disc tracking and transmission characteristics.

• Can I transfer files between the MDP and a computer using the USB interface?

  The MDP’s USB interface is for real-time audio transfers. Standard drivers included in Windows 98SE/2000/Me and Macintosh OS 9 and above recognize the MDP as a ‘USB Audio Device’. This protocol only allows for real-time streaming audio to and from the PORTADISC.

• Can I use the MDP and USB with Audio Editing applications on the Windows NT platform?

  No, not with USB. Windows NT does not support the USB Audio protocol, but any audio editing system that uses the NT platform, and has an interface that employs optical or coaxial SPDIF inputs and outputs, is of course quite suitable for transferring audio to and from the PORTADISC.

• Does the USB connection require special drivers for the Mac or Windows platform?

  No. The drivers for USB Audio are part of the Windows OS (in Win98SE, WinME and Win2000) and Mac OS 9. Just plug in the USB cable and the computer operating system should do the rest.

• What audio file format does the PORTADISC use for saving files on a computer?

  This is not determined by the PORTADISC but by the software application. The PORTADISC outputs 44.1k, 16-bit PCM data which is the same format as CD. You can save this data in whatever file format you choose, as long as the software application supports this. Common file types may include wav, aiff, SDII, etc.

• Do I need special applications to stream audio via USB?

  No. You only need a compatible operating system (Windows 98SE/2000/Me and Macintosh OS 9 and above). With the proper OS, all basic Windows and Macintosh audio editing software that uses the computer’s sound card is probably compatible with USB streaming audio. If the editing system uses its own interface boxes (e.g. Pro Tools), then it will probably not be able to use USB audio, unless of course SPDIF digital I/O is available.

• Can I perform faster-than-real-time transfers when using USB?

  No. The current transfer speed is limited to real time by the decoding system from ATRAC to linear PCM. This real-time decoding must occur before the transfer by USB streaming audio.

• Can I record more than 80 minutes on a single MD80 disc?

  No, not in stereo mode. The stereo record time maximum is 80 minutes, but in MONO record mode, this is doubled to 160 minutes (2 hours 40 minutes).

• What converters are used on the MDP?

  The MDP uses latest-generation 20-bit oversampling Delta-Sigma modulation converters.

• Can I overcharge NiMH in the portadisc?

  It is not possible to overcharge batteries in the PORTADISC when using the supplied mains adapter. If you are using a non-standard DC supply then ensure that the output of this does not exceed 14 volts.

• What is the sample rate and word length for recording and playback on the MDP?

  The MDP records 20-bit/44.1k audio and then encodes using ATRAC for storage onto the Mini Disc. Playback is at 20-bit/44.1k out of the SPDIF coaxial and optical outputs.

• What is SRC?

  SRC stands for Sample Rate Converter. The MDP employs automatic sample rate conversion for digital audio input that is not at the 44.1k sample rate. The SRC converts incoming digital audio between 32k and 48k into 44.1k.

• Can I turn SRC off?

  he SRC automatically turns off if the digital audio input is already at a sampling rate of 44.1k. This ensures the signal path is as clean as possible. SRC only turns on for signals outside the range 44.1k +/-0.1% (e.g. 48k and 32k).

• How long should I charge the batteries for optimum performance?

  If the batteries are charged in the PORTADISC, optimum battery performance is reached after 14 hours of charging. A 14-hour charge should provide approximately 3.5 hours of operation in record mode (i.e. operating immediately after a full charge with the backlight off and phantom power off). For faster charging, third-party fast chargers for NiMH batteries can be used. With these devices, charge times are a little as 5 hours.

• What is SCMS?

  SCMS (Serial Copy Management System) allows the originator to protect their material from unlimited digital copying. The system has 3 settings:

  1) Copy Prohibit
  2) One copy allowed
  3) Copies permittedThe PORTADISC’s analog recordings are default set to ‘one copy allowed’ and cannot be changed. SCMS does not prevent analog copying or streaming to a computer via USB.

• Can I turn SCMS off?

  No. SCMS is part of the MiniDisc specification and cannot be disabled.

• Does the use of phantom power dramatically affect my battery performance?

  This depends on which phantom-powered mics are being used and whether there are 1 or 2 phantom mics connected. The PORTADISC limits the current to each input mic to 7ma, or 14ma total. This equates to a maximum power drain of 670mW. This results in a maximum reduction of 30 minutes in record time. If just one phantom mic is being used, then the reduction is about 15 minutes.

• Can I use NiMH batteries that do not provide a minimum 1500 mAh?

  Yes, you can use any capacity size provided the terminal voltage is the same (nominal 12V). However, the smaller the battery’s capacity, the shorter the operation time.

• When I record in mono mode, playback is on both left and right channels and the output level is 6dB lower than the indicated record level. What’s going on?

  A 6dB digital attenuator is automatically turned on in MONO record mode in order to prevent an overload situation occurring. For example:-

  Left input gives a signal of 0dBFS on meter.Right input gives a signal of 0dBFS on meter.MONO (i.e. add) the inputs together to give a signal of +6dBFS (6dB increase = double the voltage amplitude).+6dBFS exceeds the maximum allowable level by 6dB and would result in severe distortion. Therefore a 6dB attenuator is switched into the MONO signal path to reduce the level back to 0dBFS when monitoring both Left and Right outputs.

• What parameters are stored in the User Setups?

  INPUT MENU	SYSTEM MENU
  INPUT SOURCE	REC MODE?
  MIC-ATT	TRACK-INCREMENT?
  BASSCUT	THRESHOLD LEVEL
  LIMITER	AUTO-START/CUT?
  PHANTOM	AUTO-PAUSE?
  	PRE-RECORD?

• Is there a remote available for the PORTADISC?

  HHB does not produce a remote for the PORTADISC. However, a remote is easily implemented by using switches to short the various pins of the connector together. The pin-out diagram and remote information are located in the operations manual.

• Do I get extended recording times when using a dynamic mic vs a condenser mic?

  Yes and no. If phantom power is required, then recording time will be reduced – by how much depends on the microphone. If the condenser is powered by an external battery, then recording time should be unaffected.

• Can I use the internal mic for critical recording?

  This is not recommended. The internal mic is intended mainly for logging purposes.

• How do I preserve battery life when the unit will be idle for extended periods?

  When the PORTADISC is not in use, it is best to remove the batteries and store them at room temperature out of direct sunlight. All batteries self-discharge over time so ensure that the batteries are charged for a full 14 hours before use.

• Is the PORTADISC’s mic pre bypassed when switched to line input or is the input simply padded?

  For line-level inputs, the input is padded.

• Machine displays "LOCK" message, I would like to perform system reset.

  1) Switch the unit OFF.
  2) Press buttons F1 and F3 at the same time and continue to hold them down.
  3) Whilst still holding F1 and F3, press the POWER button to power up the unit.
  This will perform a system reset to unlock the original record level calibration set-up.

Rosendahl Nanosyncs FAQ

• Does the Nanosyncs support Digidesign’s slave clock rate?

  Yes. The Nanosyncs can output Super Clock (Fs x 256) from up to three of the available six word clock output ports.

• Can I output Fs x 1 word clock with resolved Fs x 2, Fs x 256 (Super Clock) and video black burst simultaneously?

  Yes. The Nanosyncs has six word clock outputs and four video outputs. All video and word clock outputs are resolved when the selected reference is Internal. Three of the word clock outputs can be configured for Fs x 1 or Fs x 2, and three can support Fs x 1 or Fs x 256 clock rates. Each output can be individually assigned to a sample rate, and video output is always resolved to the internal reference or the video input. As an example, the Nanosyncs can provide resolved clock and video to a digital audio system requiring 48k, 96k, Super Clock and video references simultaneously.

• How does the Nanosyncs use LTC input?

  The Nanosyncs will accept Longitudinal Time Code as an external clock reference. The resulting word clock, AES, SPDIF, and video output from the Nanosyncs will be resolved to the incoming LTC when TC is selected as the reference.

• Does the Nanosyncs support the standard pull-up and pull-down rates?

  Yes. The Nanosyncs will output clock at the standard pull-up and pull-down rates of ±0.1% and ±4%.

• What sample rates are supported by the AES and SPDIF null outputs?

  AES and SPDIF outputs on the Nanosyncs resolve to the Fs x 1 sample rates (i.e. 44.1k and 48k).