FOstex FD8 8 ch recording prob?

[MANNY CAT]

I read in one of the forum input that you cannot record on 8 channels simultaniously?? SOmething about having to have to have some special cadget or something like that. Would you pls specify what i would need in order for me to be able to record 8 chs. What i really would like to do, is to be able to record for example:

1) record on ch 1
2) hear ch 1 while recording on ch2
3) hear ch 1 & 2 while recording on ch3, so on and so on

thanks. Manny

[A Reel Person]

The FD8 will actually record 8 tracks simultaneously in 4 pairs of 2, with it's own onboard mixer. That's the same as saying it will record only 2 "discrete" tracks simultaneously, which is true.

In order to record 8 "discrete" tracks simultaneously on the FD8, you'll need an 8-input preamp with an ADAT I/O output. The FD8 will record 8 "discrete" tracks simultaneously from it's ADAT I/O input. Use an MDA-8000, or something comparable.

Next, what you're asking is to record either 1 or 2 tracks simultaneously, while monitoring the previous tracks. This is achievable with the FD8 and it's onboard mixer, in a self-contained mode. (No need for ADAT I/O at this point).

The manual does a pretty decent job of explaining tracking and overdubbing. (See other post).

It's kinda difficult to explain e'thing that goes into a tracking session, but the basic signal routing you'd use should be that...

- the instruments/mics are plugged into the mixer channel "Inputs" with Channel-Select set to "INPUT". The PAN controls the signal on the L/R-Stereo Buss and also to the REC-FUNCT to enable the "tracks". Pan LEFT, and the ODD TRACKS (1/3/5/7) receive the input signal. Pan RIGHT, and the EVEN TRACKS (2/4/6/8) receive the input signal. That's basic channel-to-track assignment.

- Then, your basic signals should come thru the "Monitor" section. The Monitor section has a knob that sets either the "previously recorded" (cue) tracks or the "live-input" in the monitor. It's through the Monitor section that your signals will be fed thru, and the "mode" you'll be working in while tracking and overdubbing.

There's a little more to it, but you have to come to terms with the basics. As well as becoming familiar with the Monitor section, and what it will do for you,... you should keep in mind that the channels should be set to "Input" while bringing new instruments/mics into the mix for tracking/overdubbing. Then, once your 8 tracks are recorded and ready for "mixdown", you'd swictch the Channel-Selects to "Track" to play the recorded track through the onboard mixer, and the full channel strips, including EQ & Aux-Snd.

It's more complicated to explain than to actually do, hands on, but it helps to become familiar with the FD8 and all it's capability with aid of the manual.

/DA