Thanks for the reply. I'm a little too clueless about this stuff, here's another reply to the same question (I didn't see the brand-name thread forums at first):
The 688 is a purely analog device in terms of the recorder section and the mixer section. There is midi mute automation functionality for the mixer section but that is the extent of digital control as far as I know.
What that multi-pin connection is on the back is for externally syncing the 688 deck up to external devices like midi sequencers or other multitrack recorders to gain additional recording tracks.
I have never heard of anyone successfully converting that output into a USB connection and having your computer run the transport but then, I haven't spoken to every mad scientist on the planet either! And basically, that who it would take to do it as that was never the original design intension as far as I am aware.
TASCAM did make a product called
the MTS-1000 which was an external synchronizer/controller which could take it's commands from midi signals or SMPTE time code of a striped track on the tape recorder section of the 688. That's the only machine I am aware of that would plug into that Accessory connector.
Cheers!
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So, I guess that answers that. I do, however have another option (trying to not spend too much money). I also possess a Sea Sound interface (same breakup). They are now out of business, so there's no support and I don't have the manual. That thing is officially foreign territory for me, but I heard that I might be able to download the drivers still online. Any advice? Thanks.
