FD4: Transfering files to computer

[Raaen]

Hi,

I have a friend who's using an FD4. Is there mac software available to transfer the audio files to computer? Or, just looking for recommendations on getting audio into the computer. Fwiw, he's using a zip drive.

Thanks kindly

Raaen

[Ravenwing]

I used to use an FD4, and the only way I could come up with was to actually mixdown the files through the soundcard. Works, but is time consuming, and adds an unnecessary layer of DA/AD conversion. I don't think the zip drive will help, because it's my understanding that the FD4 uses a proprietary format for the files, rather than wav.

[Raaen]

Nate,

Thanks for the reply. Did you ever try digital transfers? I see that's it's optical(I'm assuming TOS link vs lightpipe being only 2 channels). I also see others using a digital converter from Fostex. What if you had a sound card that had Tos link inputs? Or is that converter a result of Fostex's proprietory format? I have a Midiman CO2 that has the ability of converting TOS link to Spdif. Wonder if that'd work. Thanks Again

Raaen

Originally Posted by Ravenwing

I used to use an FD4, and the only way I could come up with was to actually mixdown the files through the soundcard. Works, but is time consuming, and adds an unnecessary layer of DA/AD conversion. I don't think the zip drive will help, because it's my understanding that the FD4 uses a proprietary format for the files, rather than wav.

[ednor59]

Well, after much advice from members and some experimentation, I've got it handled. I'm using an FD-8, which has the same optical I/O as the FD-4. The Edirol UA-1D (about $40.00 at Musician's Friend) allows you to run an optical cable ($10, Radio Shack) into your computer via USB port. The Edirol comes with a CD and manual which explains how to set up the drivers, etc., for Windows. But since your friend is intelligent enough to use a Mac, he benefits from the fact that the Mac USB drivers are already installed. Plug and play, baby. But here's how to make it work: scroll to the "digital output" category on the FD-4's display. You can select any of the 4 tracks to send individually, or what I did, send just the two left and right channels. That way you maintain the digital sound, and the stereo mix. Select the little backwards "c" next to L and R, and you're set.
Now, you need to use some software to record the signal to the Mac's hard drive. I'm using Sound Studio, which has great filters and can clean up the sound to some extent. A lot of people on these threads are raving about N-Tracks. I haven't tried that one yet.
One last thing: when you've made all your settings and hookups, make sure you restart everything. And double check to make sure you're recording at the 44.1 sampling rate with the software. Good luck!