744T User Guide and Technical Documentation

744T
High Resolution Digital Audio Recorder with Time Code
User Guide and Technical Information
firmware rev. 1.24
1.8" HDD
2.5" HDD
Sound Devices, LLC
300 Wengel Drive • Reedsburg, WI • USA
+1 (608) 524-0625 • fax: +1 (608) 524-0655
Toll-Free: (800) 505-0625
www.sounddevices.com
backside - front cover
Introduction
Table of Contents
Quick Start Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Powering the Unit
Menu Navigation Basics
Connecting Audio Sources
Routing Inputs to Tracks
Recording Parameter Setup
Time Code Setup
Recording
Playback
FireWire File Transfer
Front Panel Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Panel Lock
LCD Display Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Left Panel Connectors and Controls . . . . . . . . . . 11
Right Panel Connectors and Controls . . . . . . . . . 12
Back Panel Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Input Setup and Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Input Source Selection
Analog Inputs 1 and 2
Analog Inputs 3 & 4
Signal Presence and Peak Indicator
Digital Inputs – AES3
Digital Inputs – AES3id (S/PDIF)
Input Delay
Input-to-Track Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Outputs – Analog and Digital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Master Output Bus
Output Bus 2
Headphone Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Choosing Headphone Sources
Setting Headphone Source Options
Multi-Function Controller (Encoder) Behavior
Headphone Favorite Selection
Headphone Playback Mode
Warning Tones
Metering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Output Meter
Meter Ballistics
Peak LEDs
Tone Oscillator
LCD Contrast & Backlight, LED Brightness
Sample Rate and Bit Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Sample Rates
Bit Depths
Word Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Clock Master
Clock Slave
C. Link – Multi-Unit Linking
Time Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Frame Rate
Time Code Modes
Jam Menu
User Bits
NTSC Standard Def Video Production
Audio File Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
WAV / BWF
MP3 – MPEG Layer 3
Recording and Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Recording
Playback
AutoPlay
Storage Medium – Internal Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Formatting
Drive Repair
Drive Type
Drive Failure
Drive Replacement
Storage Medium – Compact Flash . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
When to Use CF
Formatting
Testing
Drive Repair
Qualified CF Cards
File Naming / Numbering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Scene Name/Number
File Management and Copying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
File Finder Navigation
File Directory Screen
Setting/Clearing Flag Bits
Automatic Flag Clearing
Folders
File Time and Date
File Size Maximum
File Copying – Between Internal Drives
File Transfer – FireWire
Powering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
External Powering and Battery Charging
Time Code Clock Battery
Firmware Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Version Information
Upgrade Process
Setup Menu Presets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Built-In Presets
User Setups
Setup Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Power Consumption Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Recording Time Calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Uncompressed Recording Time in Track-Hours
MP3 Compressed Record Time in Hours
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Menu Navigation Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Warranty and Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Software License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
1
744T User Guide and Technical Information
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing the 744T. The super-compact 744T records and plays back audio to and
from its internal hard drive or Compact Flash medium, making field recording simple and fast.
It writes and reads uncompressed PCM audio at 16 or 24 bits with sample rates between 32 kHz
and 192 kHz. Compressed (MP3) audio playback and recording are also supported. The time code
implementation makes the 744T ready for any recording job—from over-the-shoulder to cart-based
production.
The 744T implements a no-compromise audio path that includes Sound Devices’ next generation
microphone preamplifiers. Designed specifically for high bandwidth, high bit rate digital recording,
these preamps set a new standard for frequency response linearity, low distortion performance, and
low noise.
With documentary and ENG mixing engineers in mind, the 744T is very small, while still being feature-rich. No other recorder on the market matches its size and feature set. In addition, its learning
curve is quite short—powerful does not mean complicated. While the 744T is a very capable recorder
by itself, it truly excels when used in conjunction with an outboard audio mixer such as Sound
Devices’ own 442 or 302.
Sound Devices took advantage of the best in professional and consumer electronics technologies to
bring incredible feature depth with ease of use. Its two recording media (hard drive and Compact
Flash) are highly reliable, industry standard, and easily obtainable. The removable, rechargeable battery is a standard Sony-compatible Li-ion camcorder cell. The 744T interconnects with Windows and
Mac OS computers for convenient data transfer and backup.
Copyright Notice and Release
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the expressed written permission of SOUND DEVICES,
LLC. SOUND DEVICES is not responsible for any use of this information.
SOUND DEVICES, LLC shall not be liable to the purchaser of this product or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses
incurred by purchaser or third parties as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or unauthorized modifications, repairs, or
alterations to this product, or failure to strictly comply with SOUND DEVICES, LLC’s operating and installation instructions.
Microsoft Windows is registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer. Other
product and company names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
The sound waves logo is a registered trademark of Sound Devices, LLC.
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firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Quick Start Guide
Quick Start Guide
The 744T is an extremely powerful and flexible portable audio recorder. Before recording, familiarity
with the product is essential. Several settings should be verified or set based on individual recording
needs.
Powering the Unit
1.
Apply power to the unit by attaching the (included) removable, rechargeable Li-ion (lithium ion) battery to the back panel battery mount. The metal tabs on the mount line up with the electrical contacts
on the battery. From the factory, the battery may not have a charge, so external DC may be needed for
initial operation and charging. Connect the included AC-to-DC power adapter to the DC input plug to
power and charge the battery.
2.
Press and hold the power key (150 ms) to power up the unit. To power down the unit the power button
must be held for one second.
If this is the first time the recorder has been powered, or if it has been without a battery for an extended period, the date and time may need to be set.
Charge the included Li-ion battery for 6 hours prior to initial use.
Menu Navigation Basics
The setup menu provides options for recording, routing, and control parameters. The one layer
menu structure allows for very quick navigation and selection of functions. To enter the setup menu
key. Once in the setup menu, the following conventions are shared for
press the front panel
navigating among selections and to select specific parameters.
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
- enters setup menu
iitemh - highlighted menu item
- selects highlighted item or parameter
- moves up in menu and between menu parameters
- moves down in menu and between menu parameters
- exits the selected menu or menu altogether
The
stop key will exit from any menu and cancel any changes. Use it to escape out of the
setup menus.
The right panel Multi-Function Controller (labeled “Select”) is a convenient control to quickly navigate among menu items and item options. Its push-to-select function duplicates the check mark in most
menus.
Connecting Audio Sources
1.
Connect audio sources, either analog or digital, to the appropriate input connector.
2.
When using either input XLR, set the appropriate input level—mic, line, or digital—with the adjacent
slide switch.
3.
If mic-level inputs are used on XLR input 1 or XLR input 2, make certain that phantom power, input
limiters, and high-pass filters are activated as required.
4.
When using inputs 3 or 4, set gain levels in the setup menu.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Routing Inputs to Tracks
Before recording, inputs must be assigned to tracks. Each of the 744T’s four inputs (1, 2, 3, 4) can be
assigned to any of the four tracks (A, B, C, D). These 256 possible routing combinations are shown on
the front panel with 16 blue LEDs. Illuminated LEDs indicate input-to-track assignment.
1.
Press the
input key to cycle through factory routing presets. The 744T has six often-used presets
for quick setup of input-to-track routing combinations. Note the routing combinations on the blue LEDs
with each successive press.
2.
If none of the preset routing combinations are suitable, assign a custom routing. Sequential presses of
the
input key will eventually cycle to the custom routing option (see Input to Track Routing, pg. 18).
3.
Press Exit to leave input routing mode.
The custom input routing menu allows any input to be assigned to any track. Multiple inputs can be assigned to a single track. If no input is assigned to a track the 744T will not record.
Recording Parameter Setup
For most productions, the general recording parameters of bit depth, sample rate, media selection,
and file format are changed infrequently. Enter the setup menu to verify recording settings. Bit depth
and sample rate are displayed on the LCD panel.
1.
Select the bit depth as needed.
2.
Set the sample rate as needed.
3.
Select the file format for recorded files.
4.
Select the storage medium (internal hard drive, Compact Flash, or both) for recording.
Time Code Setup
When using a time code workflow, proper time code setup is essential. Skip this section if time code
is not being used.
1.
Select a time code frame rate appropriate for your project. For film production, typical the time code
rates are 30 fps non-drop (US) or 25 fps (EU). For standard definition video projects, use either 29.97 or
29.97 non-drop. For high-definition projects, use either 23.976 or 29.97.
2.
Select the time code run mode: free run, record run, 24 hr. run, or one of the external run modes.
3.
Use the 744T as the master clock source and jam time code to all other recording devices. This will
assure that every device is using the same time reference. (See Time Code for additional information on
time code setup).
Recording
Now that file parameters are set, you are ready to begin recording. The 744T is a record-priority
device—pressing the record key cancels all functions, except file-based operations, and immediately begins recording a new file. When record is pressed, the red record LED illuminates to confirm
record mode. The filename on the LCD display shows the currently recorded file. Push the
stop
key (150 ms) to end recording.
Playback
When recording is stopped, the most recently recorded file is immediately available for playback.
Press the
key to begin file playback from the beginning of the file.
To select a file for playback:
4
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Quick Start Guide
1.
Press and hold the
key to select the folder (directory) for playback, either internal hard drive or
Compact Flash. The default playback directory is the volume being recorded.
2.
Use the Multi-Function Controller, or the arrow soft-keys, to navigate through the file directory.
3.
Once a file is highlighted, press the
play key to begin playback.
When playback has finished, the filename will begin flashing. Use the
fast-forward key or
rewind key to step through files in the folder, or press the
stop key to exit playback mode.
FireWire File Transfer
When connected via FireWire (IEEE-1394a) to a Mac OS or Windows OS computer (see Specifications
for computer requirements), the internal hard drive is mounted onto the computer as “letter” accessible
drive. Use the appropriate FireWire cable, either 6-pin to 4-pin or 6-pin to 6-pin, for interconnection.
Files on the 744T can be treated as if they are local files, including renaming files, copying, and playing directly from the 744T hard drive.
In general, it is good practice to copy all needed audio files from the 744T to a computer before any processing is performed on the files.
To connect the 744T for FireWire transfer:
1.
Stop all playback and recording activity.
2.
Make certain the 744T battery is fully charged, or connect to external DC.
3.
Connect the 744T to the host computer with a FireWire cable.
4.
The 744T will enter FireWire transfer, indicated by COMPUTER CONNECTION on the LCD display. All
functions of the 744T are stopped while the 744T is connected to a computer through FireWire.
5.
Navigate the drives on the computer and copy all needed audio files to the computer.
To avoid possible directory corruption on the 744T internal media, do not interrupt the connection process and always properly dismount the drives from the operating system. On Mac OS platforms, drag the
drive icons to the trash. On Windows platforms, use the “Disconnect External Media” icon in the system
tray.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Front Panel Descriptions
All 744T settings can be accessed and monitored through the front panel LCD and navigation keys.
This allows the unit to be placed in a production bag along with field mixers and wireless transmitters and receivers.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
29
28
27
26
25
24
1)
23
22
21
20
19
18
17
Digital Input LEDs
Indicates the presence of digital signal
on the respective input. When flashing,
indicates that digital input is selected
but no valid digital clock signal is present.
2)
firmware v. 1.24
14
13
LCD Display
Primary display of 744T status. The
LCD is backlit using the LCD backlight
control (#15).
6)
Tone Oscillator
Tone frequency, tone level, and routing
are controlled in the setup menu. Press
and hold to activate the tone oscillator.
7)
Input-to-Track Matrix LEDs
Blue LEDs indicate inputs (1, 2, 3, 4)
enabled for recording to tracks (A, B, C,
D). A solid blue LED indicates an input
is routed to a track. A flashing LED during “custom” routing mode shows the
selected input/track combination.
8)
INPUT Select Key
Pressing this key cycles through the six
factory preset input-to-track routing
combinations plus the custom routing
menu. In the custom routing menu any
input can be routed to any track. See
Input-to-Track Routing, page 18.
9)
Level Meter LEDs
Four, 19-segment track level-meters indicate level in dBFS. Metering ballistics
are selected in the setup menu.
MENU Key
Used to access all 744T setup menu
selections. When in menu mode, used to
move up through the menu selections.
Pressing the HDD and MENU keys
simultaneously brings up the time code
jam menu.
6
5)
Input 2 Gain
Controls input 2 gain, as in #2 above.
When inputs are linked as a stereo pair,
Input 2 Gain controls left-to-right balance.
4)
15
Input 1 Gain
Controls the analog gain (input trim) of
the channel 1 input. Normal mic input
range is from 25 dB to 70 dB, low gain
mic range is from 10 dB to 55 dB, line
input range is from −6 dB to 18 dB. For
line-level inputs, this control can be
defeated and gain can be setup menucontrolled. If the LCD display shows
“locked” when the pot is turned, gain
control of the line-level input is menucontrolled. When inputs are linked as
a stereo pair, Input 1 Gain controls the
gain of both inputs.
3)
16
10)
Power Key
Press and hold (150 ms) to power up the
744T. Press and hold (1 second) to power
down.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Hardware Descriptions
11)
Charge LED
17)
Indicates the charge status of the onboard battery charger. LED flashes when
external power is connected and the removable battery is charging; illuminates
solid when battery is fully charged.
12)
Power LED
Press to play the file displayed on the
LCD. If pressed immediately after
recording is stopped the most recently
recorded file is played.
18)
Record Key
Press to record. The 744T is a record-priority device; pressing this key activates
recording and discontinues all other
functions, except file operations. Pressing key during recording can set a cue
marker or start a new file, as selected in
the setup menu.
14)
15)
LCD Backlight Key
Press to toggle LCD and keyboard
backlighting. Hold the key and turn
the Multi-Function Controller to adjust
the brightness of LEDs. In menu mode,
functions as the cancel key.
16)
19)
Fast Forward Key
When pressed in playback and playpause mode this key will advance
(fast-forward) through the played file.
Play-pause is indicated by flashing Atime on LCD. Fast forward rate increases
the longer the key is held. In play-stop
mode (indicated by flashing filename
on the LCD) the key selects the next file
in the record folder (either daily folder,
scene folder, or main folder).
HDD (Drive Directory) Key
Press to enter the directory listing of the
selected storage medium (either internal
hard drive or CF). Selected medium is
shown in white type. Press-and-hold to
toggle between available mediums. If
only one media is present, press-andhold is disabled. Pressing simultaneously with MENU opens the time code
jam menu.
Stop/Pause Key
Press and hold this key for 150 ms to
stop recording. In playback mode, a single press pauses playback (play-pause),
allowing audio scrubbing with the FF
and REW keys. Another press of the key
enters play-stop mode where the FF and
REW keys select files for playback from
the current directory. One more press
of the key exits playback mode. In the
setup menu the stop key is also used
to exit from any menu, returning to the
main display.
Rewind Key
When pressed in playback and playpause mode this key will rewind
through the played file. Play-pause is
indicated by flashing A-time on LCD.
Rewind rate increases the longer the key
is held. In play-stop mode (indicated by
flashing filename on the LCD) the key
selects the previous file in the record
folder (either daily folder, scene folder,
or main folder).
Indicates the 744T is powered and available for operation. LED flashes when the
removable battery or external DC is in a
low-voltage state.
13)
Play Key
20)
Headphone Output Peak LED
Indicates overload of the headphone
amplifier. When lit, the headphone circuit is overloading. Reduce headphone
level.
21)
LIM LED
Indicates that the microphone input
limiters are engaged. This LED does not
show input limiting activity (see descriptor #27, Microphone Input Limiter LEDs).
22)
Link LED
Indicates that channels 1 and 2 are
linked as a stereo pair. In link mode input 1 potentiometer controls gain, input
2 potentiometer controls left-to-right
balance. Inputs can be linked as either a
stereo L/R pair or as a a Mid-Side (MS)
pair.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
23)
Media Ready LEDs
27)
Indicates storage media is present and
available to record; IN (internal hard
drive), CF (Compact Flash), EX (external Firewire device) [EX not available in
firmware version 1.xx]. Flashing indicates
media problem.
24)
Media Activity LEDs
Indicates storage media read/write
activity. IN (internal hard drive), CF
(Compact Flash), EX (external Firewire
device) [EX not available in firmware version 1.xx].
25)
High-Pass Filter LEDs
Indicates that the high-pass (low-cut)
filter is active for the input. High-pass
only operates when the input is set to
microphone level.
26)
Microphone Input Limiter LEDs
Illuminates orange when limiting is occurring on the microphone input. If constantly lit, the microphone input is being
hit with too “hot” of a signal. Reduce the
input sensitivity until limiting occurs
infrequently.
28)
Input Signal Presence LEDs
Indicates presence of analog or digital
signal and its relative level on each of
the four inputs.
29)
Input Peak (Overload) LED
Indicates analog signal is approaching
clipping (–3 dBFS) on each of the four
inputs.
Phantom Power LEDs
Indicates that phantom power (48 volts)
is active for the individual input. Phantom can be applied to microphone or
line level signals (menu-selected).
Panel Lock
Press and hold the backlight key then the tone key to bring up the front panel Button Lock Screen.
Button lock prevents unintentional changing of settings or record status. The 744T will display the
current mode the LCD screen.
select the soft buttons to
activate the appropriate
button lock mode
There are three modes:
• Unlocked – all buttons are accessible and operate normally.
• Non-Transport Lock – All front panel controls are locked except the Record, Stop, Play, Rewind and Fast Forward.
• Lock All – All front panel keys are locked except the Record key. The Record key is kept active so the user can initiate recording after entering this mode and enter cue markers. To stop
recording in this mode, you must disengage the panel lock and hit the stop key.
8
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Hardware Descriptions
LCD Display Descriptions
1
2
3
4
5
12
6
11
10
9
8
7
14
13
1)
Battery Level Indicator
Shows voltage level of the removable
battery or external power sources.
External power overrides battery power
when present. Graphical bar for relative
level and numeric indicator for precise
voltage measurement.
2)
Time & Date Display
Alternating display between the set date
and time of the 744T. This information is
written as the creation date for generated audio files.
5)
Sample Rate Indicator
Shows the set record sample rate. In
playback shows the file sample rate.
7)
Time Code Rate
Shows the set time code frame rate. If a
file has time code information embedded, the playback frame rate is indicated. If external time code is connected
and the external rate differs from the
rate set internally, the time code rate will
flash.
8)
Headphone Source Display
Indicates the source for headphone output. Sources and selection order are user
selectable in the setup menus.
Absolute Time (A-time) Display
Shows the elapsed time of the file being
recorded or played back. Flashes in
playback pause mode. In this mode the
FF/REW keys will scrub through an
open audio file.
4)
6)
File Name Display
Shows file name actively being recorded
or played back. In playback-stop mode,
flashing file name indicates that the fastforward and rewind keys can be used to
step through files in the current playback directory.
3)
15
9)
Time Code Display
In stop and record, shows the time code
generated by the 744T. In play mode, the
display shows the play file’s time code
information (if available). If non-time
code files are playing, the display shows
dashes.
Bit Depth Indicator
Shows the set record bit depth. In playback, shows the file bit depth.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
10)
External Media Space Status
(space remaining/record ready)
Not available on version 1.xx firmware. Bar
graph indicates amount of record time
remaining on the external FireWire volume. Numbers show time in hours and
minutes based on the presently selected
number of record tracks, sample frequency, bit rate, and file type.
11)
15)
External Digital Clock Indicator
The 744T is locked to a valid external
digital or word clock source when the L
is in the display.
Internal Hard Drive Status
(space remaining/record ready)
Bar graph indicates amount of record
time remaining on the internal hard
drive. Numbers show time in hours and
minutes based on the presently selected
of number of record tracks, sample frequency, bit rate, and file type.
12)
Compact Flash Status
(space remaining/record ready)
Bar graph indicates amount of record
time remaining on the Compact Flash
media. Numbers show time in hours
and minutes based on the presently selected number of record tracks, sample
frequency, bit rate, and file type.
For all three media types, an asterisk in front
of the media descriptor indicates that the media is selected for record. Highlighted media
descriptor indicates media selected for record
monitoring, playback or file directory display.
13)
Input 1/2 Level
When input 1 or 2 gain is turned this
indicates the gain level in dB for inputs
1 and 2. Normal mic input gain range is
from 26 dB to 70 dB, low gain mic range
is from 10 dB to 50 dB, line input range
is from −6 dB to 18 dB. “Locked” will
be displayed on the LCD when the pot
is turned with digital inputs selected or
with line inputs set to menu control.
14)
Cue Marker Display
In record mode, indicates when cue
markers are set. Markers set by pressing
the record key (option must be selected
in setup menu). In playback mode, displays cue points numerically as they are
reached in a file.
10
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Hardware Descriptions
Left Panel Connectors and Controls
3
1
1)
4
2
XLR Input 1/AES3 Input 1&2
Dual function input connection. Input
type set with switch above. Active-balanced analog microphone- or line-level
input for input 1. Transformer-balanced
two-channel AES3 input (1 and 2).
2)
XLR Input 2/AES3 Input 3&4
Dual function input connection. Input
type set with switch above. Active-balanced analog microphone- or line-level
input for input 2. Transformer-balanced
two-channel AES3 input (3 and 4).
3)
5
8
7)
6
7
Headphone Volume
Adjusts the headphone volume. NOTE:
the 744T is capable of producing eardamaging levels in headphones.
8)
Tape Output
Unbalanced tape (–10 dBv nominal)
output on 3.5 mm TRS stereo connector.
Signal source is identical to the Master
Output Bus. Tip-left, ring-right, sleeveground.
Mic-Line-AES3 Input Switch
Selects the input level and mode of the
associated XLR input connector.
4)
TA3 Channel 3&4 Line Inputs
Active-balanced line-level input connectors. Pin-1 ground, pin-2 (+), pin-3 (−).
5)
TA3 Master (L/R) Analog Outputs
Active-balanced, line-level analog L/R
outputs for the Master Output Bus. Program source and attenuation level are
user selectable. Pin-1 ground, pin-2 (+),
pin-3 (–).
6)
Headphone Output
3.5 mm TRS stereo headphone connector. Can drive headphones from 8 to
1000 ohm impedances to very high levels. Tip-left, ring-right, sleeve-ground.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Right Panel Connectors and Controls
1
2
9
1)
8
Time Code Multi-Pin
3
4
7
6
6)
Time code input and output on 5-pin
LEMO® connector.
2)
AES3id Inputs 1/2 and 3/4
FireWire (IEEE-1394) Port
Connection to a computer to access the
internal hard drive and Compact Flash
volumes as mass storage devices. Direct
connection to Mac OS (X-only) and Windows (XP- and 2000-only) computers.
4)
5)
External DC In
Accepts sources of 10–18 volts DC for
unit powering and removable Li-ion
battery charging. The Hirose 4-pin connector is wired pin-1 negative (−), pin-4
positive (+). Pin-2 (−) and pin-3 (+) are
used to charge the removable Li-ion
battery. DC ground at both pins-2 and
3 is at the same potential as chassis and
signal ground.
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7)
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AES3id Output Bus 2
Unbalanced digital output, two-channel,
for Output Bus 2. Signal source is menuselected.
8)
AES3id Master Output Bus
Unbalanced digital output, two-channel,
for the Master Output Bus. Signal source
is menu-selected and is identical to the
Analog Master Output Bus signal.
C. Link In/Out
RS-232 protocol interface on 6-pin
modular (“RJ-12”) connector for linking multiple 722 and 744T recorders
together. Word clock, machine transport,
and time code are carried on the C. Link
connector.
Word Clock Input and Out
Provides clock input and output for the
744T. Word input accepts sample rates
between 32 kHz and 192 kHz. Word
clock output is the rate that box is running. There is no sample rate conversion
onboard the 744T.
Unbalanced digital inputs accept four
channels of either AES3 or S/PDIF on
BNC connectors.
3)
5
9)
Multi-Function Controller
When in the setup menu, the controller
scrolls between menu selections; push
enters selection or enters data. In record
and playback modes, selects headphone
monitor source; push action user selectable.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Hardware Descriptions
Back Panel Descriptions
1
1)
2
3
Security Slot
Compatible with the Kensington® Security Slot specification. Useful for securing the recorder to a fixed object with a
compatible computer lock.
2)
Compact Flash Slot
Insert Compact Flash medium with the
label-side up. Compatible with Type I,
Type II, and MicroDrives.
3)
Battery Mount
Accepts Sony® InfoLithium L- or MSeries batteries. Also accepts batteries
conforming to this mount. Numerous
capacities, from 1500 mAh to 6000 mAh
are available.
13
744T User Guide and Technical Information
Input Setup and Control
The 744T has four inputs and four record tracks. Inputs are selectable among analog or digital sources. Analog inputs 1 and 2 use XLR connectors; analog inputs 3 and 4 use TA3 connections. Digital
inputs can be either AES3 (balanced XLR) or AES3id (BNC) inputs.
One analog pair and one digital pair can be used simultaneously.
Input Source Selection
Input sources are selected in pairs, 1, 2 and 3, 4. Each input pair (1, 2 and 3, 4) accepts analog or digital audio. The XLR input signal is selected with slide switch above the connector. Inputs 3 and 4 are
selected from the setup menu.
Manually selecting the audio source is used to force the inputs to analog while using an AES3 or
AES3id input to lock the 744T to an external sample rate.
Digital sources connected to AES3id BNC inputs override analog signals on the corresponding XLR input. The BNC input signal type is set in the menu settings Input 1,2: Source and
Input 3,4:Source. For most situations the appropriate setting is auto select—the 744T will choose
the input type based on signal present.
The 744T is capable of off-speed sample rates when clocked from either external digital inputs or the
word clock input.
Input sources can be set to “disabled (power save)”. This option shuts down all circuitry associated with an input pair to reduce power draw and extend battery runtime. When an input pair is
disabled, the digital input LEDs associated with the pair will slowly flash. In playback-only applications, both input pairs can be shut down to maximize power-efficiency and battery runtime.
Analog Inputs 1 and 2
Analog inputs 1 and 2, on XLR connectors, are the primary connections into the recorder. These
inputs accept balanced or unbalanced mic- or line-level inputs. Gain control for mic inputs 1 and 2 is
adjusted solely by the front panel push knobs. Gain for the line level inputs can be controlled by the
front panel potentiometers or menu settings. Line input gain is controlled in 0.1 dB steps.
A digital input present on the BNC inputs will override an analog signal present on the XLR inputs unless the input source is set to analog in the setup menu.
In the setup menu, the following functions can be controlled for analog inputs 1 and 2:
Phantom Power (mic- and line-level inputs)
Phantom power (48 volts) can be activated for inputs 1 and 2. When active, phantom is indicated by
).
front panel LEDs (
Phantom power is available for both mic and line level inputs. Using line-level inputs with microphones
is useful in extreme SPL environments such as concert recording. Make certain to turn off phantom
power with line level output devices susceptible to damage from DC.
Shortcut: To toggle phantom power without entering the menus, press and hold the tone key then
press the menu key for channel 1. Channel 2 phantom can be toggled by pressing the tone key then
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Input Setup and Control
pressing the HDD key. If the inputs are in line level mode, phantom power will not activate from the
shortcut keys and must be activated from the menus.
Input Limiters (mic-level only)
Microphone inputs 1 and 2 each have a limiter circuit designed to prevent input overload. In normal operation, with proper gain settings, the limiters should rarely engage. When activated, these
limiters will prevent unusually high input signal levels from clipping the analog input stage of
) shows that the limiter is engaged. Limiter activity is
the preamp. The front panel LIM LED (
indicated by additional front panel LEDs, one for each input channel (
). The input limiters are
active only with mic-level inputs. The limiters are engaged by (factory) default.
When limiters are engaged, audio on channels 1 and 2 is limited to −6 dBFS.
Microphone-Level Control
Microphone gain is controlled by the front panel recessed knobs. The gain control adjusts an analog
gain stage and is identical to the input trim on a mixing console or stand-alone microphone preamplifier.
Line-Level Gain Control
When in line-level position, the gain for inputs 1 and 2 is controlled by the front panel recessed
knobs or by a menu sensitivity setting. When set for front panel control, the user menu selection for
input 1 and 2 line input sensitivity are lined out and not accessible.
Input Linking (mic- and line-level)
Analog inputs 1 and 2 can be linked as a stereo pair. When linked, the channel 1 front panel potentiometer controls the signal level of both inputs, and the channel 2 pot controls the left-to-right balance
of the pair. When the inputs are linked, their peak limiters are linked, as well.
When set as an MS pair, the inputs gain and balance for the pair work the same as stereo linking.
There is no stereo width control as an MS pair since gain is adjusted.
High-Pass Filters (microphone-level only)
The high pass filters on the microphone inputs use a combination of analog and digital filters to reduce sensitivity to low frequency signals. When the high-pass is engaged on an input, its front-panel
LED illuminates to indicate it is active (
). The first pole of the high-pass circuit is an analog filter
at 40 Hz, 6 dB per octave and is part of the microphone preamplifier circuit. Additional poles of
high-pass filtering are done in DSP.
Several frequency and slope combinations are selectable, including corner frequencies of 40, 80, 160,
or 240 Hz, and filter slopes of 12 dB, 18 dB, or 24 dB per octave. The high-pass is selected for each
input independently.
Shortcut: The filters can be toggled with a two-key combination. Press and hold the
light key and press the
menu key for channel 1 high-pass. Press and hold the
key and press the
HDD key to toggle channel 2 high-pass.
LCD backLCD backlight
Gain Range (microphone-level only)
The microphone inputs operate in two gain ranges, normal and low. The normal range is from 25 dB
to 70 dB of gain. The low range is from 10 dB to 55 dB. The low range is useful for high SPL recording environments.
Analog Inputs 3 & 4
Appearing on Switchcraft TA3 connectors, inputs 3 and 4 accept balanced or unbalanced line-level
signals. These inputs have few controls and are typically fed from the output of a mixer or preamplifier.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Gain (sensitivity) for inputs 3 & 4 is controlled in the setup menu. Gain resolution is in 0.1 dB increments.
Analog Line Input Sensitivity
Input level sensitivity for the line-level inputs is adjustable, in 0.1 dB steps, from -6 dBu to +18 dBu.
While adjusting the input sensitivity, the meters will show the relative signal level present on each
input on the meters.
While channel 1 and 2 levels can be controlled by either the menu settings or the front panel pots,
channels 3 and 4 are adjusted only in the setup menu.
Signal Presence and Peak Indicator
The four signal presence and peak indicators show audio activity before input-to-track
routing. Input signal presence LED’s illuminate when a –50 dBFS or greater signal is present. Input
signal peak LEDs illuminate when signal levels reach –3 dBFS or greater.
Digital Inputs – AES3
The 744T accepts AES3 (AES/EBU) balanced digital at the XLR connectors. Digital inputs are in
pairs—AES3 signals on XLR-1 appear at inputs 1 and 2, AES3 signals input to XLR-2 appear at inputs 3 and 4. To use the AES3 inputs, the input mode-select switch must be set to AES/EBU.
The front panel digital input LEDs will illuminate when digital input is selected for the indicated track(s). If the LED is flashing, digital input is selected but a no valid digital clock is received.
Digital Inputs – AES3id (S/PDIF)
The 744T accepts AES3id and S/PDIF unbalanced digital signals at the BNC connectors. The 744T
will auto detect the type of digital signal and adjust accordingly. Input signals are in pairs, signals on
BNC 1 appear at inputs 1 and 2, signals on BNC 2 appear at inputs 3 and 4.
AES3id inputs override analog signals present at the XLR inputs. To input analog audio while using
the AES3id signal as a digital clock source, you must select analog in the input source menu selection
for the appropriate inputs.
When a digital signal is present, the 744T will lock its sample rate to the source frequency. This is
indicated by a highlighted block on the main LCD display to the right of the bit depth and sample
rate indicators. Recording bit depth is not affected by the external digital source.
If you are locking the 744T to an external digital signal, be certain the source is stable. Loss of the
digital signal will cause the 744T to revert to its internally set sample rate, even while recording. The
portion of the file recorded after the loss of signal may not play back properly. Once recording has
begun, unused digital inputs are muted, digital signals that appear on them after the record key has
been pressed will not be recorded or affect the sample rate of the 744T.
The 744T will clock itself to the first digital signal presented to it. If the 744T detects a digital signal on
the BNC inputs and locks to that signal, a digital signal applied to the XLR input will be ignored until
the first digital signal is removed.
Input Delay
A digital delay is selectable on each channel of the 744T. Delay time per input in one microsecond
(µS) steps. 1,000 microseconds equals 1 millisecond (ms). The Multi-Function Controller and menu
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Input-to-Track Routing
arrows are accelerated. The more you press or spin, the faster the delay setting will increment or
decrement. Delay is not set until enter is pressed. The amount of delay available is dependent on the
sampling frequency in use.
Sample Frequency
Maximum Amount of Delay Available (per input)
32, 44.1, 48, 48.048 kHz
30,000 µS
88.2, 96, 96.096 kHz
15,000 µS
176.4, 192 kHz
7,500 µS
Input delay can be useful for time aligning input signals from differing sources. For example, digital
wireless mics that have a processing delay in their outputs. In addition, all digital conversion stages
have delay.
Input-to-Track Routing
The 744T uses a simple, yet powerful routing scheme. The microprocessor-controlled matrix allows
any input to be routed to any track. Multiple inputs can be routed to a single track to create monomixed recordings.
The 4 by 4 blue LED matrix makes it easy to check your current routing at a glance. A solid blue LED
indicates an input is assigned to a record track.
any combination of
the four inputs can
be routed to any of
the four tracks
Regardless of which tracks are assigned for recording, monophonic file numbering always starts with 1,
i.e., if only track D is selected for recording in a monophonic .WAV file, the resulting filename will have a
_1 suffix, not _4. Polyphonic files will play back the recorded track starting from track A, i.e., if a poly file
is recorded on tracks B and D, playback will occur on tracks A and B.
Use the Input:Routing selection in the menu to enter input select mode. Alternatively, press the
input key to cycle through the six preset input routing combinations.
The last selection in the list is Custom Route. Press the EDIT soft key to enter custom routing mode.
Custom routing allows any input to be assigned to any record track. When assigning customer routing, active input and track combination are displayed in white text. The four inputs are shown on the
left; the four record tracks are shown on the right.
To assign custom input routing:
1.
Press the
input key until Input Routing is displayed on the LCD display.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
arrow indicates highlighted input is assigned
to highlighted track
select to exit menu and
apply selected routing
selet to move up
and down menu
select to remove
input assignment
2.
Press the EDIT soft button (
3.
Using either the Multi-Function Controller or the up and down arrows, navigate to desired input-totrack combinations.
4.
When a chosen pairing is highlighted press either the ASSIGN soft key or the Multi-Function Controller
to assign the combination. Assigned tracks are noted on the screen by the addition of an arrow pointing
to the record track. The LED routing matrix will also show a flashing blue LED for the currently selected
input-to-track combination.
5.
Once a track is assigned move to the next input-to-track combination desired.
6.
To remove an input-to-track combination assignment, navigate that combination and press the
UNASSIGN soft key or Multi-Function Controller.
7.
Exit and complete the assignment by pressing the check mark soft key.
) and scroll to the appropriate input screen.
The input routing menu will always exit to the main screen whether entered from the input key or the
menu selection.
Outputs – Analog and Digital
The 744T has two discrete output buses, the Master Output Bus and Output Bus 2. Each of these
two-channel buses are assigned their audio sources independently, enabling the 744T to feed multiple sources with unique two-channel program.
The chart below shows the audio sources available for the Master Output Bus and for Output Bus 2.
The audio sources for each output bus are selected in the setup menu.
Master Output
Bus and Output
Bus 2 Sources
Inputs 1,2
Inputs 3,4
Description
Stereo input pairs. Input 1 (and 3) is assigned to left output; input 2 (and 4) is assigned to right
output.
When inputs are selected as the source for the outputs, the state of recording or playback
activity has no effect on the output signal. This allow uninterrupted audio at the outputs.
Tracks A,B
Tracks C,D
Stereo track pairs. Track 1 (and 3) are assigned to the left output; track 2 (and 4) is assigned to
right output. On playback, will play as track monitor.
Monitor A,B
Monitor C,D
Stereo monitoring of playback (post-record) track pairs. Highlighted media is source of monitor
program. Track 1 (and 3) is assigned to left output; track 2 (and 4) is assigned to right output. When
not playing or recording there is no output. There is significant delay in the monitor signal while
recording due to the record buffer topology.
Master Output Bus
Audio signals routed to the Master Output Bus are sent to three output connections:
• analog line out, 2 x TA3, two-channel
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Headphone Output
• analog tape out, 3.5 mm TRS, two-channel
• digital 1, AES3id, BNC connection, two-channel
Analog Line Out L, R
The analog line outputs are active-balanced line-level signals on Switchcraft TA3M locking connectors. The output level is a nominally 0 dBu at −20 dBFS. The level of the line output can be attenuated in the setup menu by up to 40 dB in 1 dB increments.
Analog Tape Output
The tape output connection is stereo, unbalanced consumer output level (–10 dBV) on a TRS 3.5 mm
connector. Output attenuation does not affect this output level.
Digital AES3id Output
The unbalanced AES3id output is directly compatible with most S/PDIF inputs. Attenuation to the
Master Output Bus affects both analog and digital signals.
Output Bus 2
Just as with the Master Output Bus, Output Bus 2 can be assigned signal sources from inputs or
tracks. Sources assigned to Output Bus 2 are exclusive and do not affect the assignments to the Master Output Bus or headphone assignments. The same signal sources available for the Master Output
Bus are available for Output Bus 2 (see chart above).
Digital AES3id Output 2
Output Bus 2 appears solely on the AES3id BNC output connector. There is no analog output connections for Output Bus 2. The unbalanced AES3id output is directly compatible with most S/PDIF
inputs. The maximum output level is 0 dBFS and can be attenuated in the setup menu in 1 dB increments by 40 dB.
Headphone Output
The 744T headphone output is a flexible tool for monitoring audio in the field. The 744T allows the
user to monitor inputs, tracks, or post-record tracks. The headphone output is independent of the
Master Output Bus and Output Bus 2—audio sources can be routed to headphones independent of
routing assignments to output buses.
The 744T is capable of driving headphones to extremely high sound pressure levels. Hearing experts
advise against exposure to high sound pressure levels for extended periods.
Choosing Headphone Sources
The headphone source display on the main LCD screen (
) shows the audio sources sent
to headphones. The 744T comes from the factory with 10 preset headphone audio source selections
available on the Multi Function Controller. These selections include inputs, tracks and track monitors. Turn the Multi-Function Controller on the right panel when at the main LCD screen to select
among the available headphone monitoring sources.
Track Monitor
The 744T can monitor recorded audio from the internal hard drive or Compact Flash while recording. To monitor recorded tracks, select one of the track modes with an “m” following the track
designations. Because of the record buffering of the 744T, a delay of up to 12 seconds can be expected
before recorded audio appears at the output. The 744T will play back recorded audio from the media
highlighted on the LCD panel (see File Management and Copying for more information on selecting
and highlighting recording medium).
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Setting Headphone Source Options
In addition to the 10 preset headphone routings, a total of 20 available “slots” can be filled in a user
defined order. Headphone monitoring sources can be set from various combinations of inputs,
tracks, and post-record tracks, including stereo and MS decoding. The order of headphone selections
is user selectable. Available audio sources for headphone monitoring include:
HP Sources
Description
Inputs 1,2
Inputs 3,4
Stereo monitoring of input pairs. Inputs 1 and 3 are assigned to left headphone output; inputs 2 and
4 are assigned to right headphone output.
Tracks A,B
Tracks C,D
Stereo monitoring of track pairs. Tracks 1 and 3 are assigned to left headphone output; tracks 2 and
4 are assigned to right headphone output. Upon playback, will play as track monitor.
Monitor A,B
Monitor C,D
Stereo monitoring of playback (post-record) track pairs. Tracks 1 and 3 are assigned to left headphone output; tracks 2 and 4 are assigned to right headphone output.
Input 1
Input 2
Input 3
Input 4
Solo monitoring of selected input. This signal is sent to both sides of the headphones.
Track A
Track B
Track C
Track D
Solo monitoring of selected track. This signal is sent to both sides of the headphones. Upon playback, will play as track monitor.
Monitor Am
Monitor Bm
Monitor Cm
Monitor Dm
Solo monitoring of playback (post-record) track. Highlighted media is source of monitor program.
This signal is sent to both sides of the headphones. When not in playback, headphones have no
program.
Inputs 1,2 MS
Inputs 3,4 MS
Stereo monitoring of discrete M (mid) and S (side) input pairs. Highlighted media is source of monitor program.
Tracks A,B MS
Tracks C,D MS
Stereo monitoring of discrete M (mid) and S (side) track pairs. Highlighted media is source of monitor program. Upon playback will function as MS track monitor.
Monitor A,B MSm
Monitor C,D MSm
Stereo monitoring of playback (post-record) discrete M (mid) and S (side) track pairs. Highlighted
media is source of monitor program. When not in playback, headphones have no program.
When tracks (A, B, C, or D) are assigned to headphones, audio assigned to the tracks appear in headphones during recording whereas the recorded track audio appear in headphones during playback.
To set the available headphone source options for headphone monitoring enter the HP: Monitor
modes menu. Once you enter the Monitor Modes menu you will immediately be in slot-1. Rotate the
Multi-Function Controller to select the source you wish to appear first in your Headphone monitor list. Once the chosen source appears, press the Multi-Function Controller or the soft key ENTER
(tone) key to move to the next slot. Continue down the list to select the source for each slot in the
list. Once all sources have been chosen, select DONE and press ENTER. This will exit the headphone
monitor mode setup. You can exit the selection process by pressing the stop or cancel (backlight) key
at any time.
If you press (done) in the first headphone slot, the 744T will select a single option (Tracks A, B) for headphone monitoring. The 10 factory presets will be erased.
Multi-Function Controller (Encoder) Behavior
The action of the Multi-Function Controller during recording and playback is set from among the
four available options:
• Disabled: pushing the controller has no effect.
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Metering
• Selects Favorite Mode: places the headphone source into the mode selected in the HP Favorite
menu.
• Headphones to C/D meters: shows the level of the headphone output on the C/D track meters.
• Playback/Monitor Drive Select: pushing the controller toggles between the available media to
select the drive available for playback and track monitor while recording.
Headphone Favorite Selection
If “Selects Favorite Mode” from the choices above is selected, a press of the Multi-Function Controller selects the assigned “Headphone Favorite” source. This feature is helpful to quickly return to a
selected headphone monitoring source while recording or playing. One of the available headphone
sources can be selected as the headphone favorite.
Headphone Playback Mode
The user may select a headphone source that will automatically be selected by the 744T upon playback. All headphone source selections are available for Headphone Playback Mode, as well as “No
Change”, which leaves the headphone source set to the currently selected mode. Headphone Playback Mode is controlled in the setup menu.
Warning Tones
The 744T can generate an audible beep, or warning “bell”, in the headphones when an error has
occurred. The specific error will be reported on the LCD. The output level of the warning bell can be
selected from off or –20 to –12 dBFS in the setup menu.
Metering
The 744T features a 76 LED (4 x 19) output meter. The DSP-controlled output meter provides a selection of ballistics and lighting intensities. In addition, peak indicators on input channels show clipping activity.
Output Meter
0 dBFS track LEDs are programmable
as peak LEDs
(0 dBFS to −20 dBFS)
The meter uses energy efficient LEDs which are viewable in full sunlight. The 744T output meter is
unaffected by shock or extremes in temperature and humidity. Meter ballistics are setup menu selectable among VU, Peak, Peak-Hold, VU + Peak and VU + PeakHold.
The meter uses a non-linear metering scale which increases meter resolution in the most important
part of the scale. From −50 to −40 dBFS, each LED segment equals approximately 10 dB. From −40 to
−12 dBFS, each segment equals 2 dB. From −12 to 0 dBFS each segment equals 4 dB.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Meter Ballistics
The output meter can be set to display any of five types of meter ballistics: VU, Peak, Peak-hold,
a combination of VU and Peak, and a combination of VU with Peak-hold. The meter ballistics are
selected in the setup menu.
VU - (Volume Units)
Ballistics correspond closely to how the human ear perceives loudness and provides a good visual
indication of how loud a signal will be. In VU mode, the attack and decay of the meter signal is
300 mS. While giving a very good visual indication of perceived loudness, VU meters gives poor
information on actual signal peaks and are virtually useless for tracking to the 744T. In VU mode, the
front panel meter labeling is in volume units.
Peak
Peak-reading ballistics correspond to actual signal maximums, but don’t necessarily correspond to
perceived signal loudness. A peak meter has a near-instantaneous attack to display maximum signal
amplitude and a slow decay to allow the user to see them. Peak metering is essential for digital recording, since signal overload can cause immediate distortion. The peak meters front panel markings
are calibrated in dBFS, decibels relative to full-scale digital signal.
Peak Hold
Essentially the same as Peak metering where the peak level indication will hold for the peak level
indication for several seconds. Peak-hold indicators are useful for metering in applications when an
overload condition is unacceptable.
Peak/VU
The meter can simultaneously display VU and Peak level information. In this mode the perceived
loudness (VU) is displayed on a bar graph, and the Peak signal on a dot above the VU. With this
combination the user gets the best of both VU and Peak metering by seeing both the “loudness” of
the signal and the peaks at the same time. Peak/VU is the factory default.
Peak Hold/VU
Similar to VU/Peak mode, this mode holds the peak level indication for several seconds before
releasing. Peak Hold indicators are useful for metering in applications when an overload condition is
unacceptable.
Peak LEDs
input peak LEDs
input signal present LEDs
headphone peak LED
In addition to the main LED output meter, peak LEDs show input peaks, track peaks, and headphone peaks.
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Sample Rate and Bit Depth
Input Peak
The 744T has a peak LED associated with each input. These LEDs illuminate when input signal
reaches –3 dBFS. There is no user-adjustment to the Input Peak LEDs.
Track Peak
The 0 dBFS LED on each track can also function as a track peak indicator. The user can select a signal
threshold above which the 0 dB LED will flash.
Headphone Peak
Like the channel peak LEDs, the headphone circuit has an indicator for peak overload. This LED is
useful, since headphones can often overload before the recorder overloads. Monitoring without a
visual indication of headphone clipping may mislead the operator into thinking that the output or
return tracks are distorting.
Tone Oscillator
The tone oscillator level and frequency are user selectable. Reference level is adjustable over a range
of −40 to 0 dBFS. Reference tone frequency is adjustable from 100 to 10,000 Hz. Standard tone levels
vary according to the practices and needs of production and post-production, but are generally in
the –20 to −12 dBFS range.
The tone oscillator is activated by pressing the front panel
key. Tone will active only while
the tone key is pressed. Tone is routed where specified in the setup menu. Routing choices include:
outputs, outputs and tracks, tracks only, or no tone routing (disabled). When routed to tracks, all
selected record tracks will receive the tone signal. Tone can only be recorded to the head of an audio
file. To record tone, press the tone key and continue to hold it down while starting to record. Subsequent presses of the tone key are locked out to prevent tone from inadvertently being recorded.
LCD Contrast & Backlight, LED Brightness
LCD
LCD contrast is setup menu controlled. From the factory the contrast is set to 50%, suitable for most
viewing conditions. Contrast can be increased or decreased.
The front panel
no-light recording.
key toggles the LCD and key backlight. Backlighting is suitable for low- and
LED brightness is continuously adjustable from low to high brightness. Hold down the
key
and turn the Multi-Function Controller to change brightness levels. All LED’s are adjusted. In stealth
mode (setup menu selected) the LEDs are toggled on and off with the LCD backlight key.
Sample Rate and Bit Depth
When recording to WAV (and BWF files) the 744T generates uncompressed, PCM audio files at the
user-selected sample rate and bit depth. The 744T LCD calculates available recording time based on
the sample rate, bit depth, number of tracks set for recording and the selected storage media available capacity. See the Calculating Recording Time later in this guide to estimate record time.
Sample Rates
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
When a sample rate is selected for recording, all tracks are recorded at the selected sample rate.
Sample rates are selected among common rates from 32 kHz to 192 kHz. Additionally, non-standard
sample rates can be applied when the 744T is word clocked from an external source (valid clock between 32 kHz and 192 kHz). When recording off-speed sampling rates files will be stamped with the
rate nearest the internal frequency.
Sampling Frequency = Available Audio Bandwidth
The sampling frequency is expressed in samples per second (in hertz) and defines the number of
times in a second that the analog audio signal has been measured. Sampling frequency determines
the audio bandwidth, or frequency response, that can be represented by the digital signal. A quick
estimate of the maximum bandwidth capable of being represented at a given sample rate is maximum analog frequency = sampling frequency/2. Higher sampling frequencies allow for wider audio
bandwidth.
Bit Depths
The 744T records at bit depths of either 16 or 24 bit. 24 bit recording provides greater dynamic range
and addition headroom for signal peaks relative to 16 bit recordings. 24 bit acquisition is a significant
benefit for field production audio tracks.
Bit Depth = Available Dynamic Range
Bit depth defines the digital “word length” used to represent a given sample. Bit depth correlates to
the maximum dynamic range that can be represented by the digital signal. Larger bit depths theoretically yield more dynamic range. A quick estimate of maximum dynamic range capable of being
represented by a given word length is dynamic range ~= no. of bits x 6 dB. Bit depth is an exponential measure (exponent of 2), so as bit depth increases, the amount of data it represents increases
exponentially. The majority of field recording is done with 16-bit audio, therefore, each sample is represented by a digital word of 2^16 (65,536) possible values. 24-bit audio has a word length of 2^24
(16.7 million) possible values per sample.
The 744T has 24 bit analog-to-digital converters. To obtain 16 bit recording the 744T can be set to
dither 24 bit digital signals to 16 bit. The 744T uses a proprietary pseudo-random dither routine for
accurate bit rate reduction. Dither can be defeated in the user menu. Without dither 24 bit audio is
truncated to 16 bit, meaning the least significant 8 bits are discarded.
Once a file is recorded its sample rate and bit depth can not be changed in the recorder. The 744T can not
perform sample rate conversion or bit depth changes. File conversion must be done in another environment, such as an audio workstation. Alternatively, a real-time analog transfer is often performed instead
of sample rate conversion.
Word Clock
Stable word clock is fundamental to a high quality audio signal. The 744T uses a rock-stable time
code crystal to generate its internal word clock frequencies. The 744T can clock external devices from
its word clock and accept external clock sources for recording.
The 744T disregards external clock, both AES and word clock, during playback.
Clock Master
When sending digital audio to several devices, one unit is designated as the word clock master and
the others should be slaves. Generally, the device with the analog-to-digital converter is designated
as the word clock master.
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Word Clock
The 744T can function as an A/D converter and can be used as the master word clock source. Slaved
devices will derive their word clock timing from either their digital audio inputs, S/PDIF or AES/
EBU, or through their word clock input connection. As a word clock master the 744T generates word
clock whether or not audio is sent.
Clock Slave
When using an external digital preamplifier connected to the 744T inputs, the recorder can derive its
clock signal from the AES (S/PDIF) stream (it will slave to the external device), or the external device
can be slaved from the 744T (if the external device has word clock input). If, for example, you are using a wireless receiver with a digital output, it may not have an external word clock input, and will
be the word clock master.
If digital audio is connected to the 744T from more than one digital device, you must word clock the
sources to the same clock, otherwise variations between the sources will render their signals unusable.
If the 744T is slaved to external word clock, be certain that the source is stable. Loss of the word clock
signal during recording can cause the 744T to revert back to its internally set sampling frequency.
If this occurs, the portion of the file recorded after the loss of word clock may not play back at the
proper speed. For reliability, we recommend you set the 744T to the same sample frequency as the
word clock source. Loss of the word clock signal in this case will most likely cause a glitch in the file,
but the file will still be usable.
To avoid digital loops, when using the word clock and digital input signals, you must make the 744T the
word clock follower of the digital source.
C. Link – Multi-Unit Linking
The proprietary C. Link (control link) connection enables multiple 744T and 722 recorders to be
connected for recordings requiring high track counts. When linked, the 744T and 722 recorders have
a master/slave relationship. When the master recorder is put into record, the slave unit will roll as
well. Multiple units can be daisy-chained together to record nearly unlimited tracks. The C. Link
protocol links carries the following data:
• word clock
• time code information (744T only)
• RS-232 machine transport data
master
unit
slave
unit
slave
unit
To link units:
1.
Connect multiple units as shown in the illustration above.
2.
Set all linked recorders to the same sample rate, bit depth, file format, and time code frame rate (if
used). This will ensure that all files generated are compatible.
3.
If time code is being used, set slave units to External time code mode so that they will follow the master
recorder’s time code generator.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
4.
Set scene names on each of the units for easy identification in post production. Take numbers should be
set to the same on all linked recorders if take numbers are reset before recording. There is no file name
synchronization with multiple unit linking.
When linked, record start and stop on slave units will not affect units “above” in the linked chain.
This makes it possible for units to get out of synchronization if a unit other than the master is set to
record or stop. Using the master unit will assure that all machines begin and end recording together.
The C. Link jack is a proprietary RS-232 port. Under no circumstances should analog or digital telephone lines be connected to either jack. Serious damage to the recorder could result.
Time Code
The 744T uses time code circuitry developed by Ambient Recording GmbH, a leading developer of
stable, portable time code products (visit Ambient on the web at www.ambientaudio.com). Clock
stability and continuity are critical aspects of the 744T time code implementation. Its temperaturecontrolled (compensated) crystal oscillator ensures rock solid TC stability and accuracy (< 0.2 ppm
when tuned with an Ambient Master Controller).
The 744T holds accurate time code for up 2 hours between battery changes using its internal, rechargeable AA NiMH time code cell. After two hours without power, the 744T reverts to a less precise time-of-day crystal to maintain the date/time of the unit. This time code battery is charged from
internal or external power whenever the 744T is powered up.
If the time-of-day clock is reset during the production day or if the time code mode is changed from
24 hour run to another mode and back, the time code generator value will change. You must re-jam
all time code devices to ensure proper synchronization.
Non-linear file-based recordings place a single time code stamp in the data header of an AES31
(Broadcast WAV) file. The 744T generates SMPTE time code from this number and extrapolates it
based on the time code frame rate for playback.
All files generated by the 744T have time code numbers begin on the 0 frame (or 02 in DF modes). If
necessary, pre-roll is dynamically applied to accomplish this. This simplifies synchronization in post-production.
Frame Rate
A single time code frame rate is selected in the Timecode:Framerate menu.
The 744T supports all of the common production time code rates, including:
•
•
•
•
23.976 – used with Sony high definition video cameras
24 – to sync audio to film where no transfer to NTSC video is expected
25 – to sync sound to PAL video
29.97 – to sync sound to NTSC video shot in non-drop frame mode and Panasonic high definition cameras
• 29.97DF - to sync sound to NTSC video shot in drop frame mode
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Time Code
• 30 – to sync sound to film where transfer to NTSC video is expected
• 30DF – to sync sound to film for transfer to NTSC video in drop-frame mode 29.97 fps
Time Code Modes
The 744T includes the following time code modes:
Off:
The time code generator is disabled. The front panel time code display is blank.
Free Run:
The internal time code generator runs continuously without regard to the record mode. Any time
code value can be used as the start value by “jamming value” in the jam menu.
Record Run:
The time code generator runs only when the 744T is recording. Time code in this mode defaults to
00:00:00:00 at power-up. When switching to record run from another mode, the internal generator
will stop at the last number generated. A user-defined value can be jammed into the internal generator from the jam menu.
Free Run Jam Once:
The onboard time code generator will re-jam from external time code whenever a valid, running
time code signal is connected to the TC input. Similar to free run mode, the generator runs continuously without regard to record mode. For a jam to occur, the time code signal must be disconnected
and re-connected to the time code input. Free run Jam Once is useful when using the recorder as a
slave, although one of the External TC modes may be more appropriate for slaved operation.
24 Hour Run:
Identical to free run with the exception that the generator will automatically jam itself from the
time-of-day clock on power-up. The generator will also re-jam if the time-of-day clock is reset. Once
jammed, the generator will run continuously from the time code clock, not the time-of-day clock.
Ext TC:
The internal time code generator follows an external time code signal appearing at the time code
input.
Ext TC/cont:
The internal time code generator follows an external time code signal appearing at the time code input. If the external time code is removed the internal generator continues to run to preserve continuous time code. Useful for time code transmission over RF where RF “hits” may interrupt time code.
Ext TC-Auto Record:
The internal time code generator follows the external time code signal appearing at the time code
input. When external code advances, the 744T enters record mode automatically. When the external
code is stopped, the 744T generator pauses and recording is stopped. This is appropriate when dualsystem sound is used with video cameras set for Rec Run time code. The video camera will function
as master time code and the recorder “transport” will follow the video camera transport.
Ext TC/cont-Auto Record:
The internal time code generator follows the external time code signal appearing at the time code
input. When external code advances, the 744T enters record mode automatically. When the external
code is stopped, the 744T generator pauses and recording is stopped. If the external time code is
removed the internal generator continues to run to preserve continuous time code. Useful for time
code transmission over RF where RF “hits” may interrupt time code. This is appropriate when dualsystem sound is used with video cameras set for Rec Run time code. The video camera will function
as master time code and the recorder will follow.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
In Free Run Jam Once and all four external time code modes, time code is recalculated, “back stamped,”
when external static time code advances after the 744T begins recording. If external time code does not
advance, the file will be stamped with the stopped time code number. Back stamping the file allows the
audio time code to properly correspond to picture time code if sound rolls before picture in a video Rec
Run environment.
Jam Menu
incoming received
timecode or zero value
press to jam
menu selection
744T current timecode value
drive key and
Time code setup is done from the jam menu, Timecode Jam Menu. Pressing the
menu keys simultaneously quickly enters the jam menu. In this menu, the top of the display
shows the value of signal present on the time code input and the bottom of the display shows the
currently set time code value. In addition, the 744T displays the frame rate of the incoming time code
and the current frame rate setting of the 744T.
The 744T time code generator can be set in three ways.
Jam RX TC
External time code is shown at the top of the LCD screen, the 744T internal generator is shown at the
bottom of the screen. Frame rate for both external and internal time code are shown on the right side
of the LCD screen between the internal and external numbers. To jam the internal generator to the
external value, press the enter key or the Multi-Function Controller button. The screen will display
JAMMING. Once the 744T is jammed to the external time code, the external and internal numbers will
match and run in sync.
Identical to the Ambient Recording series of time code products, the 744T time code generator is capable
of “cross jamming” differing frame rates. The 744T will cross jam time code at the top of the second giving phase-accurate (the 00 frames will match) time code at the frame rate set in the 744T instead of the
incoming frame rate.
Jam Zeros
This menu selection resets the internal generator to zero.
Jam Value
Press enter (tone key) or the controller button to jam the user-entered time code start value into the
internal generator.
Edit Value
This menu allows the user to set any valid time code value (00:00:00:00–23:59:59:29) for entry
with the jam value selection above. The initial screen of this menu shows the currently set value as
well as the current time code setting of the 744T. Press the controller or the enter key (tone key) to
enter into edit mode. The user can set the time code numbers in pairs (hours, minutes, seconds and
frames). Once (DONE) is selected the value is available to jam into the internal generator with the
jam value selection.
A value is not jammed into the 744T time code generator until jam value is selected.
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File Formats
User Bits
The 744T has seven user selectable user bit modes. Time code user bits are a portion of the time code
data which can be allocated however the user chooses. Commonly, user bits carry information such
as the date, take, sound roll, or camera roll number.
User bits are edited from the Edit U-Bit selection in the jam menu. Press enter (tone key) or the
controller to enter user bit edit mode. The screen will show the format and setting of the user bits.
Using the controller or the soft-button up and down arrows, user bit digits can be edited (in pairs).
Once DONE is selected, the user bits are set. If editing is not available in the selected user bit mode
“No User Edits“ will appear in the screen.
NTSC Standard Def Video Production
NTSC video uses a frame rate of 29.97 frames per second. Unfortunately, that leaves 108 frames per
hour unaccounted. To keep 29.97 time code in sync with “clock” time, the concept of “drop frame”
was devised. Two frames are dropped at the top of each minute not divisible by 10. 54 drops per
hour x 2 frames = 108 frames per hour.
To sync the 744T to a video camera, first determine if the camera is in drop frame or non-drop frame
mode. If you, the DP or the producer are unsure about what setting to use, check with post-production, if possible.
As a rough guideline, video for NTSC broadcast is drop-frame, you can use non-drop frame for anything
else, as long as all recorders are recording in the same mode.
1.
Set the 744T to either 29.97DF or 29.97 respectively.
2.
Jam the camera using a LEMO-5 to BNC adapter cable connected to the time code input on the video
camera.
3.
Switch the camera to free run time code. The 744T time code should appear in the time code display on
the camera.
4.
Disconnect the time code cable.
The camera and recorder time code should now be running in sync. Check it after roughly 5 minutes
to be certain synchronization is maintained.
Video cameras are notorious for time code instability when switched off. If the video camera must be shut
down, re-jam it when it is powered back up.
Audio File Formats
The 744T records audio to industry-standard file formats—Windows Wave (WAV), Broadcast Wave
(BWF, monaural and polyphonic) and MPEG Layer 3 (MP3).
WAV / BWF
The 744T adheres to the AES-31 BWF file specification. The filename extension is user-selectable
between .WAV or .BWF. Users wishing to record “standard” wave files should select the .WAV
extension. Time code will be stamped at the head of the file, but software that does not recognize the
broadcast wave data chunk will simply ignore this added information.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
There is no difference between generated with WAV or BWF extensions except for the extension name.
The BWF files created by the 744T contain production information in the Broadcast Audio Extension
data chunk. Among the values recorded are:
•
•
•
•
•
•
time code stamp
time code frame rate
date and time of the original recording
bit depth
sample rate
originating machine serial number
All of the information contained in this chunk is available for post-production.
If time code is turned off the unit will write files with a WAV extension only.
MP3 – MPEG Layer 3
For music and voice recording applications where compressed audio is acceptable, the 744T can
record to industry standard MPEG Layer 3 (MP3) audio files. These data-compressed files are generated using the built-in MP3 codec. Numerous data rates are available. When recording MP3 files, the
time code generator will remain running internally, but will not record time code to the file. The only
time reference available is the Absolute Time (A-Time) of the file.
The 744T can play back MP3 files, as well as record them. This is very useful on-set to play a personal MP3 audio library during downtime.
By definition of the file format, MP3 recordings are limited to two tracks, therefore only tracks A and B
are available for assignment. Time code is not a part of the MP3 format. Even with time code enabled and
running during MP3 recording, time code will not be recorded with the file.
Recording and Playback
Recording and playback of audio are unquestionably the most important functions of the 744T. The
user interface of the product has been designed to leverage the existing paradigm of a “tape recorder” so that the unit is easily understood. Recording and playback functions are quite similar to that
of tape-based machines, however the nature of a non-linear recording medium provides additional
control not possible with tape-based recorders.
Recording
The largest, most easily accessed control on the 744T is its record key. Recording takes
priority over all activity except for disk formatting, disk speed tests, and file transfers. The 744T will
immediately enter record mode whenever the record key is pressed. When recording, the adjacent
red LED will illuminate to indicate that the unit is in record mode.
If no inputs are routed to tracks, recording cannot take place. Make certain that at least one record track is
assigned for recording.
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Recording and Playback
While recording, the power, ff, rew, input, tone, and drive keys are disabled. Stop recording by pressing and holding the STOP key. The Stop key must be held for 150 ms or greater to end recording.
Although you can enter the setup menu during recording, menu items that will affect recording are
lined out in the menu list.
When using the recorded track monitor selection, there is a sample rate dependent delay in the signal. At
48 kHz sampling, the delay is approximately 12 seconds. This delay is due to the record buffering topology. Audio can not be monitored until it has left the record buffer and written to the recording media.
During recording, subsequent presses of the record key can perform one of three setup-menu-selected actions:
• no action,
• new cue - cue markers are set within the file being written,
• new file - a new file is started with each press of the record key, the take counter is increased by
one.
When removing the CF from the 744T, always observe the amber activity LED for the CF medium. If it is
lit, wait until it goes out before removing the CF. If you remove the CF while the LED is lit, the file will be
corrupted and there is a possibility of FAT corruption as well.
Playback
Press play to begin file playback. The 744T has high-resolution playback circuitry and is appropriate for any reference audio application. Any file recorded by the 744T can be played back, including
MP3 file playback. In addition, files copied to the storage mediums from a computer can be played
back. This is useful when using the 744T as a high-resolution playback device.
The 744T plays back the last recorded audio file unless another file is selected. There are two ways to
select another file for playback. To select another file in the current record directory, push either the
FastForward or reverse key to put the 744T in to play-stop mode. The filename display will begin
flashing and the FastForward and Reverse keys are used to step through files available in the current
record directory. To select a file in an alternate directory, press the HDD key to enter the media directories. Navigate to the appropriate directory. Select the file that to play back with the Multi-Function
Controller and press play.
If the stop key is pressed while playing files from an alternate directory, the 744T will revert to the
current daily directory.
AutoPlay
The 744T can be set to play back all valid audio files in a directory. Files will play back in their order
in the directory. Autoplay can be set with the following options:
•
•
•
•
Disabled – auto playback is off
Play all – all files in the directory will play, then stop when all files have been played
Repeat one – the selected file will play back continuously until stopped by the user
Repeat all – all files in the directory will play in succession, then repeat until stopped by the
user
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Storage Medium – Internal Drive
The 744T’s internal hard disk drive is the 744T’s primary storage medium. The large capacity and
fast data read/write speeds of hard drives are a perfect choice when long form, high data rate
recording is performed. This is a good balance of speed, reliability, noise performance, and current
draw. Higher speed drives may be used with the 744T, however they will not significantly improve
performance. They will slightly increase transfer throughput with the penalty of increased current
draw and reduced battery run time.
Formatting
The drive installed in the 744T is formatted at the factory as a single-partition FAT32 volume. If a
drive with multiple partitions is installed, the 744T will only “see” the primary partion. The 744T can
only address one partition.
As a matter of routine maintenance, periodic re-formatting of the 744T hard drive is recommended.
Formatting the hard drive rebuilds the FAT (file allocation table) and erases any audio or other data
files present on the medium. This reduces possibility of directory corruption.
Be certain that all files on the 744T drive have been backed up to another media before formatting. Once
formatted, all data on the drive will be erased.
To format the 744T internal hard drive:
1.
Ensure that all data on the hard drive has been copied or is no longer needed.
2.
Press the Menu key.
3.
Use the Multi-Function Controller to scroll to In HDD: (Erase).
4.
Press the controller button to begin formatting.
5.
Press the controller once more to confirm the operation.
Formatting the 744T hard drive can take up to 30 seconds. When the format is completed, the 744T
will create a fresh menu hierarchy, including the daily folder, if selected. Once you exit back to the
main screen the 744T is ready for recording.
Drive Repair
Included in the software for the 744T is a basic drive repair utility. The utility is similar to Windows
“Scandisk” and will check for file system integrity, recover lost cluster-chains, fix or recover damaged file allocation tables (FAT). This utility should be run after improper media removal, or in the
event of a write error during recording.
When selected from the setup menu, the repair utility will scan the drive for problems, report the
number of errors and correct the errors.
Drive Type
The 744T ships with a 2.5-inch ATA-5 interface, 5400 RPM hard drive. Sound Devices has chosen the
specific mechanism for maximum vibration and shock resistance. Most 2.5 inch drives conforming to
the ATA specification can be substituted for the factory hard drive. When choosing a substitute hard
drive, note that higher RPM hard drives draw more current, reducing battery run time.
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Storage Medium
Drive Failure
Hard disk drives are mechanical devices and are susceptible to damage from physical shock. One
type of physical shock, called operating shock, occurs when the disk is in operation. During operation, the drive head is typically over the drive platters reading and writing data. When a physical
shock to the drive occurs during operation, the head and the platters can come into contact causing
both components to be damaged. The second type of shock, called non-operating shock, occurs
when the head is in the unloaded position, or not positioned over the platters. When a physical
shock occurs in the non-operating state, the head can contact the ramp it is positioned over and damage the ability of the head to read and write data to the hard disk drive. All devices with hard drives
are subject to damage from operating and non-operating shock.
The mechanical construction of the 744T is designed to minimize the transmission of shock to the
hard drive. The drive is isolated from the chassis using special shock-reducing closed-cell foam. This
material increases the amount of shock the hard drive can withstand. Additional protection can be
achieved by operating the unit in a carry case.
If the recorder is used in applications subject to extreme motion, Sound Devices recommends recording to
CF medium only. The hard drive will park its write heads to reduce the chance of failure.
With all electrical devices, the higher the ambient temperature the shorter the device’s operational
life. Therefore, take care to observe the specified temperature rating.
There is also a risk from sudden temperature changes, which can create condensation inside the
drive. This condensation can lead to the drive’s read/write heads adhering to the disk surfaces
which will, in turn, stop the hard disk from rotating. Condensation tends to occur when the temperature inside the drive suddenly falls, for example, just after the unit is moved to a new location, or
after operation is stopped in a cold environment.
Sudden changes in temperature or air pressure can cause disk surface material to evaporate, which
can also cause the head to adhere to the disk surface. This can happen when a hard disk drive is left
unused for a long period of time.
Drive Replacement
The internal hard drive can be removed and replaced if the device fails or if a different capacity drive
is needed. The internal hard drive is intended to be a swappable, deliverable medium. Its multi-pin
connector is not rated for repeated insertion and removal cycles and may be prone to breakage with
repeated cycling.
In typical service conditions Sound Devices recommends hard drive replacement once every three years.
The hard drive is mounted to the bottom-side of the recorder’s chassis and is screwdriver accessible. The drive is “suspended” in the unit with a shock isolating membrane and is attached to the
main circuit board via a “flex board”. Since the unit’s high-density circuitry and tight construction
require specific electronics knowledge, Sound Devices strongly recommends drive replacement be
performed by a qualified technician using proper ESD precautions. Drive replacement done by a
qualified technician has no warranty implications.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
744T with bottom panel
removed showing hard
drive mounting location
The internal hard drive is not intended as a swappable exchange medium. The header connector is not
rated for repeated removal and insertion. Only qualified service technician using proper ESD precautions
should perform drive replacement.
Storage Medium – Compact Flash
Compact Flash (CF) is a practical, portable storage medium for audio recording. Its speed, reliability,
and price continue to evolve to the benefit of portable recorders. The 744T can write to and read from
CF as either its sole recording medium or simultaneously with the internal hard drive.
When to Use CF
The key benefits of Compact Flash include:
•
•
•
•
wider temperature range capability than hard drives
increased shock immunity versus hard drives
convenient media insertion and removal
established workflow and ubiquitous card readers and transfer tools
Formatting
Upon insertion of an unformatted (or non-FAT32 formatted) CF medium, the 744T will prompt the
user to format the card. If the card is formatted as a FAT32 volume the card will be ready to be selected as a recording medium. To reformat the CF medium, follow the same procedure as formatting
the hard drive, substituting the CF menu selection for the hard drive.
The 744T can format and use Compact Flash cards with capacities of 64 MB and greater.
Formatting the CF rebuilds the FAT (file allocation table) and erases any audio or other data files
present on the medium. While some PC utilities can recover files immediately after formatting the
drive, consider that the files have been permanently erased. FAT32 volumes generated by the 744T
may not be compatible with numerous consumer electronic devices, including entry-level digital
cameras.
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File Naming
After recording to CF has stopped, it may take several seconds for the 744T to finish “housekeeping” on
CF. When preparing to remove the CF, always observe the amber CF activity LED. If it is lit, wait until it
is off before removing the card. If the CF is removed while the LED is lit, at the very least the file will be
corrupted and there is a possibility of FAT corruption as well.
Testing
CF cards varied widely in their write/read throughput. Later generation “24x” and greater CF cards
can reliably read and write multi-track, high sample rate audio. The 744T includes a drive speed test
to measure the throughput speed of CF medium. Measured numbers greater than 3000 KB/s can
reliably write 24/96 x 4 channels.
Not all CF medium can sustain write speeds for reliable 192 kHz recording. Use the speed test utility to
make certain that installed medium can support the selected number of tracks at 192 kHz.
Drive Repair
The same drive repair utilities are available for the CF as the internal hard drive.
Qualified CF Cards
Several CF mediums have been tested and “approved” for use in the 7-Series, including Lexar
Media, SanDisk, and Kingston Technology cards in capacities ranging from 128 MB to 4 GB. Small
capacity cards may not format as FAT32 and may not be useable. It is not feasible for Sound Devices
to test all available CF cards for compatibility or maximum throughput with the 744T. Use the CF
transfer speed test to verify that an installed card can support the needed read/write speed.
File Naming / Numbering
Files generated by the 744T are named using a syntax made up of four parts: scene number, take
number, mono track designator (if mono file is selected), and extension.
scene
number
take
number
mono
file
designator
extension
Scene Name/Number
Scene names are made with alphanumeric characters, including “_” and “-” and can be any length
between zero (0) and nine (9) characters in length. Scene numbers are helpful to match audio with
the corresponding scene in a production. Scene names can also be used to identify other items, including recording date, artist name, or any other descriptor as required.
Scene names are user-selected in the setup menu and do not change until changed by the user.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
To change scene numbers:
1.
Enter the user menu and navigate to the Scene Name/Number option.
2.
Use the REW (<) and FF (>) soft keys to move among characters. Use the PLAY key to delete characters.
Characters are entered from left to right and deleted from right to left.
3.
Use the Multi-Function Controller or the soft key arrows to choose characters. Press the Controller or hit
the fast-forward key to save the character and move to the next position.
4.
To save the scene name, press the soft check key or the Controller without selecting a character. After
the ninth character is entered, the scene name is automatically saved.
If all characters are removed, no scene name will be written to files. If Scene Folder is selected for file
management, all takes will be placed in the SOUNDDEV folder.
Take Numbers
Take numbers are integers between 1 and 32000, with or without preceding zeros, which increase
by one each time a new file is recorded. Take numbers can be set with or without a take separator,
such as the character “-” or “T”. Take numbers can be overridden and a new take number can be set
in the setup menu. If the 744T detects a file with a duplicate name in the destination folder, a letter
suffix, starting with “A” is added to the file name, before the extension. Note that take number handling can be selected to reset if set in the setup menu (see File Management and Copying).
To change take numbers:
1.
Enter the user menu and navigate to the Take Name/Number option.
2.
Use the REW (<) and FF (>) soft keys to move among decimal places and to jump to the single alphanumeric take spacer character. Use the PLAY key to reset the take number to 1. Characters are entered
from left to right and deleted from right to left.
3.
The Multi-Function Controller or the soft keys are used to choose characters/numbers. Press the Controller or hit the soft check key to save the character and move to the next position.
From the user menu the action for take resetting is controlled from the following options:
•
•
•
•
36
Never – take numbers do not reset
When scene is changed – take resets when scene name is changed
When daily folder is changed – takes reset on new day
Either scene or daily– takes reset on either change
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Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
File Management
Mono Track Name Designators
When recording monophonic Broadcast WAV files each track is recorded in a separate data file. To
identify each track, each file is identified by an underscore and track number suffix. The file of the
first track recorded has “_1” appended to it. Numbers don’t necessarily correspond to specific tracks,
only to the number of tracks recorded. For instance, if track D is the only track recorded, it’s designator will still be _1.
File Management and Copying
The 744T, like a computer, writes its audio recordings to a file system. The 7-Series recorders use a
FAT32 file system. The 744T formats its internal hard drive and Compact Flash medium as single
volumes named “744T”. All files generated by the 744T are placed in the folder (directory) named
SOUNDDEV. The 744T does not write files to the root of the volume. If Daily Folders or Scene folders
are selected, the 744T will generate a new folder, named by date or scene name, each time the calendar day changes or the scene name changes. Otherwise all recorded files will be stored directly in the
SOUNDDEV directory.
An example hierarchical view of files generated by the 744T is below. Notice the volume name,
SOUNDDEV folder, daily folders, and the files contained within the folders.
744T
SOUNDDEV
Y04M06D01
.. S001T0001.WAV
.. S001T0002.WAV
.. S001T0003.WAV
Y04M06D02
.. S001T0004.WAV
.. S001T0005.WAV
Y04M06D02
.. S002T0001.WAV
.. S002T0002.WAV
......S999T0001.MP3
......S999T0002.MP3
File Finder Navigation
Moving from file to file is similar to navigating among files on a computer.
1.
Enter the file menu by either selecting File:View Files file in the setup menu or by pressing the front
panel HDD key. By default the folder where the last recorded file or played file is located with be the
folder first opened. The 744T knows this file name by reading a .txt file written to each time the unit
records or plays audio.
2.
To move up the hierarchy scroll up to the top of the menu to “\..” .
3.
Press enter or the Multi-Function Controller button to go up one menu level.
4.
From the root menu, selecting \.. opens the media select screen.
5.
Continuing up the file hierarchy the media menu is viewable. Select either internal hard drive or CF (if
installed) and drill down through the directories of that medium to the file required.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Larger files and files from Compact Flash take added time to show details; this is normal.
File Directory Screen
The file directory screen contains information about the individual audio files contained in the directory. The left side of the display shows files and folders. The top line displays the directory path in
the form of media\folder name. File names are listed in the order they were recorded.
File types not native to the 744T do not show up in the file directory view, although folders without audio
data will be viewable.
File detail is shown at the right side of the display. The center divider points to the file selected for
information viewing. Information shown includes:
• file creation date, file archive bit status, checked means the file archive bit is set, clear means
the file archive bit is cleared
• file creation time, file size
• number of tracks, bit depth, sample rate
• beginning (BEG) time code stamp of the file for BWF files or the length (LEN) of MP3 files
• There is additional information available for BWF files. Pressing the Multi-Function Controller
will cycle through the beginning time code stamp (BEG), file length (LEN) and user bits (USR).
The file directories always exit to the main screen whether entered via the menus or the HDD key.
Setting/Clearing Flag Bits
Pressing the tone key in the file directory display opens the “Set or Clear Flag Bit” screen.
The options for setting or clearing flag bits include: set or clear the selected file, set or clear all the
files in the current folder, or set or clear all files on the volume.
All files recorded by the 744T have their archive bit set to on.
38
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
File Management
Automatic Flag Clearing
The 744T can be set to clear the flag bit of copied files automatically. When enabled in the
File: Copy Flag Control menu, all files copied internally by the 744T, but not via FireWire, will
have their flag bits cleared on the original file.
Folders
Files generated by the 744T are placed in either the root SOUNDDEV folder, a “daily” sub-folder
within the SOUNDDEV folder, or a Scene sub-folder within SOUNDDEV. Options are chosen in the
setup menu from the following:
• Single folder - all files are placed in a SOUNDDEV folder. This is appropriate for non-sync files
such as wild sounds, effects, etc. Note that if many many files are generated, this filing action
can become cumbersome to manage and navigate.
• Daily folder - a new sub-folder is generated in the SOUNDDEV folder each calendar day. All
files recorded on that day are placed within it. The daily folder is made based on the onboard
clock and used the syntax of “YxxMxxDxx, where Y is year, M is month, and D is day. Make
certain that the 744T time-of-day clock and date are properly set.
• Scene Folders - a new sub-folder is generated in the SOUNDDEV folder each time the scene
name changes. All files with a specific scene name will be place in its cooresponding scene
folder.
File Time and Date
Similar to a computer file system, all files recorded by the 744T are stamped with the time and date
of file generation. To ensure that accurate time and file generation dates are written to each file, make
certain that the time-of-day clock and calendar are accurately set.
File time and date and time code are unrelated.
1.
Enter the TIME/DATE: Set menu.
2.
Set the current time and date using the navigation below.
soft keys increment
and decrement
time and date,
controller can be
turned, as well
advances to the
next selection
returns to the
previous setting
Once set, the time and date clock will be kept while the removable rechargeable battery is attached.
If it is removed the internal AA NiMH time code battery maintains the time-of-day and date for 8
days, or more.
File Size Maximum
The 744T data volumes (internal hard drive and CF) are formatted and write to FAT32 file structures.
This structure allows these drives to directly mount in a wide variety of computer platforms, including Windows and Mac OS. Using the FireWire connection both internal drives (internal hard drive
and CF) appear as external FAT32 volumes.
Windows XP has a limitation on FAT32 drive formatting; XP can format a FAT32 volume to a maximum
of 32 GB, however it can read FAT32 volumes as large as 2 TB.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
FAT32 has a maximum file size limitation of 4 GB. While it is possible to have thousands of files
on the 744T medium(s), the largest any single file may be is 4 GB. The 744T automatically splits an
audio file before the 4 GB size is reached and begins writing to a new file. When joined in an editing
program, these files match seamlessly with no samples lost. The 744T has menu-selectable file size
maximums of 650 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB. The 650 MB size allows the user to break an audio program into CD-R sized files for backup to inexpensive CD-R medium. There is also a selection of sizes
to ensure that files recorded will fit onto common Compact Flash card capacities.
File Copying – Between Internal Drives
Audio files are easily transferred between CF and the 744T’s hard drive. File transfer is initiated with
the setup menu option File:Copy File Select.
The Copy File Select menu has four options for each media type:
Copy All [Media] > [Media]:
Copies all files from one media to the other.
Last 24Hr [Media] > [Media]:
Copies files created in the last 24 hours between media.
Last 48Hr [Media] > [Media]:
Copies files created in the last 48 hours between media.
Flagged [Media] > [Media]:
Copies all files with their archive bit set between media.
Once file copying has begun, the 744T searches the source media for the selected files. The 744T will
then search the destination drive looking for duplicate file names. The LCD will report the number
of files found, the number of duplicates found and the net number of files to be copied and prompt
to continue.
Pressing the enter key or controller button begins copying. The LCD will report progress of the file
being copied and the number of files remaining to be copied. When file copy is complete, the 744T
will report the number of files successfully copies and show a progress bar showing the percentage
of files successfully copied.
Error Conditions:
If a file is to large for the destination medium, the 744T will give you the option to skip the it or cancel copying. If an error occurs during file copying, the 744T will prompt to cancel the transfer. When
the destination medium is full, the 744T will report the error and end the transfer.
File Transfer – FireWire
FireWire port
FireWire cable - 744T to computer
Software revision 1.xx does not support drive mirroring to external FireWire volumes.
40
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Powering
The 744T’s FireWire (IEEE-1394) port makes transfer of recorded files to a delivery medium quick
and easy. When connected via a 6-pin Firewire cable, the internal hard drive of the 744T will mount
to the Mac or Windows platform as a local drive. Using Windows Explorer, Mac Finder or any other
file utility, files can be copied from the 744T directly to an edit system or to a host system for transfer
to a removeable delivery medium.
To connect the 744T for FireWire transfer:
1.
Stop all playback and recording activity.
2.
Interconnect the 744T to the host computer.
3.
The 744T will now show COMPUTER CONNECTION on the LCD. While audio will still pass through
the 744T, no recording or playback is possible.
4.
Navigate the drives on the computer and copy all needed audio to local storage.
To avoid possible directory corruption on the 744T internal media, always properly dismount the
drives from the operating system. On Mac platforms, drag the drive icons to the trash. On Windows platforms, use the “Disconnect External Media” icon in the system tray.
Powering
The 744T is powered from either a removable, Li-ion rechargeable battery or external DC power.
The included, removable 7.2 V Li-ion cell can be used as either primary or backup power. The 744T
automatically chooses the power source based on the voltage level of the external power supply. The
transition between external and removable battery powering is seamless and has no affect on recording or playback operation.
One of the hallmarks of Sound Devices’ equipment is their power efficiency. During typical operation the 744T will run for approximately two hours from the included a 1500 mAh Li-ion battery.
Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
The 744T is powered from Sony-compatible L- or M-type Li-ion rechargeable batteries. Numerous
power capacities are available in these battery types, ranging from 1000 mAh to 7000 mAh. The
744T’s mount accommodates unlimited battery depth. Larger amp-hour cells provide more run time.
When powered by the removable Li-ion battery, the LCD displays the battery voltage level of the
powering source. The nominal operating voltage for Li-ion batteries is 7.2 V, with operating voltages
ranging between 6.5–8.5 V. When the battery drops to 6.5 V, the LCD voltage display and the power
LED begin flashing to warn that the battery is nearly depleted. When the voltage reaches 6.3 volts
the 744T will power down—any recordings in-process will automatically be closed (stopped).
External Powering and Battery Charging
The 744T can be powered externally from 10–18 VDC (2 amp minimum). External DC fully powers the unit and charges an attached Li-ion battery simultaneously using the 744T’s onboard Li-ion
charger. The charger circuit operates whenever the unit is powered on and optionally when the unit
is off, depending on the external power wiring (see below).
DC input uses a 4-pin Hirose connector (Part # HR10-7P4P). There are two connection options available:
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
External DC Input Wiring
Operation
pin-2 to negative (–)
pin-3 to positive (+)
operates the on-board Li-ion charger when the unit is both turned on and off. Use when
plugged into AC power
pin-1 to negative (–)
pin-4 to positive (+)
operates the on-board Li-ion charger only when the unit is turned on—there is no external current draw when powered off. Use when connecting to an external battery pack
Regardless of whether pins-1 and -4 or pins-2 and -3 are used, the unit will always charge the Li-ion battery when the unit is
powered on.
Pin-1 and pin-2 of the external DC input are at the same ground potential as chassis and signal ground.
The voltage level of the source powering the unit is shows on the LCD (
). When the
744T senses a low voltage condition from an external DC source the power LED and battery voltage
display flashes, to alert the user. When the external DC reaches 9 volts, the 744T will automatically
switch over to the removable battery. If no battery is installed the unit will shut down.
The included AC-to-DC “wall-wart” power supply operates the unit and charges the removable batteries simultaneously. Pins-3 and -4 are wired to (+) and pins-1 and -2 are wired to (–).
When power is applied, the charging circuit evaluates the battery condition and supplies charging current, if necessary. When charging, the amber charge LED will flash. Once the battery is fully
charged, the charger will turn off and the amber charge LED will light solid, indicating a full charge.
Large capacity cells increase the charge time.
Charge LED Activity
Description of Activity
Off
Charger disabled
On
Completed charge / battery fully charged
1 blink
Charger enabled / battery is charging
2 blinks
No Li-ion battery attached
3 blinks
High/low internal temperature state
4 blinks
Battery level error code (>15 min. in slow mode)
5 blinks
Error - charger has been operating for over 8 hours without full charge
If the charge LED shows anything but a successful charge, the Li-ion battery may require replacement.
Time Code Clock Battery
The 744T has an internal NiMH LR6 (AA) battery to power to the time code generator circuitry and
time-of-day clock. This battery is charged simultaneously with the Li-ion battery. Additionally, the
AA is charged from the Li-ion battery when the unit is powered on.
With a fully charged AA battery, accurate time code is held for two hours after power down. The
744T can be powered down and the removeable battery can be removed and replaced without worry
of time code jumps or inaccuracy. When the NiMH battery is near depletion, the time code generator
will shut off and the time-of-day clock will take over and keep running for up to one month.
744T maintains accurate time code for 2 hours after power-down with a fully charged NiMH battery time
code AA battery, even with the Li-ion and external DC power sources removed.
42
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Firmware
Firmware Upgrades
The 744T uses upgradable EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory) to hold
the unit’s operating system software, or firmware. Firmware is the source code which controls all
aspects of the device, including: menu options, signal routing, signal processing, LED’s, button and
switches, and data ports.
Version Information
During manufacturing the unit’s hardware revision number and serial number are burned into
a protected area of the EEPROM and are not changeable. These numbers can be viewed from the
Info:Version selection of the setup menu. Info:Version also shows the firmware version of the
recorder.
The 744T firmware version and unit serial numbers are written to the data chunk of every WAV and
BWF audio file generated by the 744T.
Upgrade Process
From time to time Sound Devices may issue revisions (new versions) of firmware for the 744T. Firmware is user-upgradeable. To upgrade firmware follow the steps below.
1.
Download the firmware file from the Sound Devices web site or obtain it on disk.
2.
Transfer the firmware file (it will be named version_number.prg) to the 744T internal hard drive via
FireWire or onto a CF card. If there are multiple firmware files on the media, the 744T will indicate the
firmware file listed to apply. To prevent confusion, ensure that there is only one firmware file available
on either 744T media.
3.
Enter the firmware upgrade menu. You will be prompted to search for the firmware file. If a valid
firmware file is present on either the internal hard drive or CF the recorder will prompt if the path is the
proper file to use. Press the Multi-Function Controller or the tone key to say yes. The 744T will begin
firmware upgrade and validation. Progress is indicated with a bar graph.
4.
When the upgrade and verify process is complete, power cycle the 744T. On power-up the LCD will
turn solid black and the green LED next to the FireWire port will blink 20 times. When the update sequence is complete, the 744T will reboot once again.
5.
Verify the firmware version using the Info:Software menu.
6.
Reset the time-of-day clock, time code generator, and verify any recording parameters.
Firmware upgrades are designed to preserve all user menu settings. However, save a snapshot of the settings to a setup file on the hard drive or CF. Once a firmware upgrade is complete, restore settings from
this file, if necessary. Some firmware updates may make changes to user setups; verify all user setups after
an upgrade.
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Setup Menu Presets
Presets are useful shortcuts to speed setting the numerous parameters available in the setup menu.
The 744T has four built-in presets and unlimited user presets.
Built-In Presets
The 744T is shipped from the factory with the factory preset applied. Its settings are listed below.
Three additional presets, film, reporter, and music presets allow for quick setup of typical parameters for the defined application. Presets are applied by entering the setup menu and selecting the
preset. All previous settings are lost when a preset is applied.
Factory
Preset
Parameter
44
Film
Preset
Reporter
Preset
Music
Preset
Sample Rate
48 Khz
48 Khz
44.1 Khz
44.1 Khz
Bit Depth
24 bits
24 bits
16 bits
16 bits
Input 1/2 Gain Controls
Unlinked
Unlinked
Unlinked
Linked
Record Dither
Off
Off
On
On
Pre-Roll Recording Buffer Time
2
2
2
2
Input 1 Delay
0
0
0
0
Input 2 Delay
0
0
0
0
Input 3 Delay
0
0
0
0
Input 4 Delay
0
0
0
0
LED Brightness
10
10
10
10
LCD Backlight
On
On
On
On
LED Backlight Mode
Normal
Normal
Normal
Normal
LCD Contrast
50%
50%
50%
50%
Meter Ballistics
Peak+VU
Peak+VU
Peak+VU
Peak+VU
Input #3 Gain
0 dB
0 dB
0 dB
0 dB
Input #4 Gain
0 dB
0 dB
0 dB
0 dB
Input #3/4 Source
Auto
Auto
Auto
Auto
Input #1 Low Cut Filter
40 Hz,
12 dB/Oct
40 Hz,
12 dB/Oct
80 Hz,
18 dB/Oct
40 Hz,
12 dB/Oct
Input #2 Low Cut Filter
40 Hz,
12 dB/Oct
40 Hz,
12 dB/Oct
80 Hz,
18 dB/Oct
40 Hz,
12 dB/Oct
Input #1 Low Cut
Off
Off
On
On
Input #2 Low Cut
Off
Off
On
On
Limiters Enable
On
On
On
On
Transport Error Mode
Continue
Continue
Continue
Continue
Track Peak Threshold
0 dBFS
0 dBFS
0 dBFS
0 dBFS
Time Code Frame Rate
30 FPS
30 FPS
30 FPS
30 FPS
Time Code Mode
Free run
Free run
Off
Off
Time Code User Bits Mode
mm:dd:yy:tt
mm:dd:yy:tt
Not Used
Not Used
Time Format
12 Hour
12 Hour
12 Hour
12 Hour
Date Format
MM/DD/YY
MM/DD/YY
MM/DD/YY
MM/DD/YY
Record File Format
WAV poly
WAV mono
MP3 128
WAV poly
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Menu Presets
Factory
Preset
Parameter
Film
Preset
Reporter
Preset
Music
Preset
Media Select
CF &
Hard drive
CF &
Hard drive
Hard drive
CF &
Hard drive
Marker Mode
Off
New file
New file
New file
Marker Pre-Roll
Off
Off
Off
Off
Auto File Split Size
4 Gb
4 Gb
4 Gb
4 Gb
Output Bus 1 Source
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Output Bus 1 Attenuation
0 dBFS
0 dBFS
0 dBFS
0 dBFS
Output Bus 2 Source
Tracks C/D
Tracks C/D
Tracks C/D
Tracks C/D
Output Bus 2 Attenuation
0 dBFS
0 dBFS
0 dBFS
0 dBFS
HPMon1
Inputs 1/2
Inputs 1/2
TracksA/B
Inputs 1/2
HPMon2
Inputs 3/4
Inputs 3/4
End-of-list
Inputs 3/4
HPMon3
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
HPMon4
Tracks C/D
Tracks C/D
Tracks C/D
HPMon5
Input 1
Input 1
Input 1
HPMon6
Input 2
Input 2
Input 2
HPMon7
Input 3
Input 3
Input 3
HPMon8
Input 4
Input 4
Input 4
HPMon9
Mon A/B
Mon A/B
Mon A/B
HPMon10
Mon C/D
Mon C/D
Mon C/D
HPMon11
End-of-list
End-of-list
Number of HP Monitor Modes
10
10
1
10
Headphone current mode
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Headphone favorite mode
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Tracks A/B
Encoder Switch Function
Favorite Mode
Favorite Mode
Favorite Mode
Favorite Mode
4 Track
4 Track
Dual Mono
Stereo
End-of-list
Custom Route Value
Input Routing
Timecode Userbits U-value (Low Word)
Record Folder Options
Daily
Daily
Daily
Daily
Tone Level
–20 dBFS
–20 dBFS
–12 dBFS
–12 dBFS
Tone Frequency
1 kHz
1 kHz
1 kHz
1 kHz
Tone Mode
Trks & Outs
Trks & Outs
Trks & Outs
Trks & Outs
Ch #1 Phantom
Off
On - Mic Only
On - Mic Only
On - Mic Only
Ch #2 Phantom
Off
On - Mic Only
On - Mic Only
On - Mic Only
Input #1/2 Source
Auto Select
Auto Select
Auto Select
Auto Select
Input #1/2 Control
Knobs
Knobs
Knobs
Knobs
Line Input #1 Gain
0 dB
0 dB
0 dB
0 dB
Line Input #2 Gain
0 dB
0 dB
0 dB
0 dB
External Voltage Threshold
11.0 V
11.0 V
11.0 V
11.0 V
Clear Source Flag Bit After Copy
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Enabled
Autoplay mode
Play All
Play All
Play All
Play All
HP Monitor Playback Mode
Tracks A,B
Tracks A,B
Tracks A,B
Tracks A,B
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
Parameter
Factory
Preset
Film
Preset
Reporter
Preset
Music
Preset
Warning Bell Level
–30 dBFS
–30 dBFS
–30 dBFS
–30 dBFS
Mic Input #1 Gain Range
Normal
Normal
Normal
Normal
Mic Input #2 Gain Range
Normal
Normal
Normal
Normal
Never
On new daily
folder
Never
Never
Take Counter Clear Mode
User Setups
All of the set parameters in the table above can be saved in a file to internal hard drive or to CF card.
By entering the Get/Save Setup Menu, the user can save or retrieve parameters to a data file. This
binary file is named 744T.SUP and is saved in the SOUNDDEV directory on the selected medium.
46
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Setup Menu
Setup Menu
The setup menu controls a wide range of parameters for the 744T, including all audio routing,
recording settings, and time code options. The setup menu is a single, flat architecture with no submenus, easing navigation. Each setup controls a specific parameter with several selections. The chart
below shows the setup number, a description of the control, and the menu options available.
#
Setup Name
Setup Description
Setup Parameters
1
Quick Setup
Allows the user to quickly apply default
menu setups and save/retrieve user
setups to disk or CF.
• Load Factory Settings
- restores the factory default settings
• Load Film Settings
- applies typical setups for film production
• Load Reporter Settings
- applies typical setups for voice recording
• Load Music Settings
- applies typical setups for music recording
• Load User from INHDD
- applies settings saved by user to hard disk
• Load User from CF
- applies settings saved by user to CF
• Save User to INHDD
- saves present state to file on hard drive
• Save User to CF
- saves present state to file on CF
2
Rec: Sample Rate
Sets the audio sampling frequency of the
744T
• 32 kHz
• 44.1 kHz
• 48 kHz
• 48.048 kHz
• 88.2 kHz
3
Rec: Bit Depth
Sets the bit depth of the 744T recordings. • 16 bit,
• 24 bit
4
Rec: File Type
Selects the file format (type) recorded to
the selected medium. WAV and BWF files
are identical, the only difference is the
file extension.
• .WAV poly
• .WAV mono
• .BWF poly
• .BWF mono
• .MP3 – 64 kb/s • 96 kb/s • 128 kb/s • 160 kb/s
• 192 kb/s • 256 kb/s • 320 kb/s
5
Rec: Media Select
Selects the storage media used for
recording. Media is selectable even if it is
not present.
• IN HDD Only
• CF Only
• IN HDD and CF
6
Rec: Scene Name/Number
User-defined, alpha-numeric file scene
name.
<up to 9 alpha-numeric characters can be
entered for the scene name>
Scene name can also be left blank
7
Rec: Take Name/Number
Numeric, auto-incrementing number used
for take identification.
<selectable alpha character + integers up to
32000, with or without preceding 0’s>
8
Rec: Take Reset Mode
Defines when take numbers are reset.
Reset brings take number to <1>.
• Never
- take numbers do not reset
• When scene is changed
- take resets when scene name is changed
• When daily folder is changed
- takes reset on new day
• Either scene or daily
- takes reset on either change
9
Rec: Pre-Roll Time
Selects the amount of pre-roll time the
744T will add to the beginning of each
file.
0–10 sec. @ 48 kHz
0–5 sec. @ 88.2–96.096 kHz
0–3.5 sec. @ 192 kHz
• 96 kHz
• 96.096 kHz
• 174.4 kHz
• 192 kHz
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744T User Guide and Technical Information
#
Setup Name
Setup Description
10
Rec: Dither
Selects whether to dither is added to 24
bit digital signals while recording 16 bit
files.
• Off
• On (16 bit only)
11
Rec: Timer Start
Sets a specific start time/date for unattended recording. Unit must be powered.
<enter time, date>
12
Rec: Timer Stop
Set a specific time/date to stop recording. May be used with or without the Rec:
Timer Start. May be set before the Timer
Start time to temporarily stop recording
and then resume recording with Timer
Start.
<enter time, date>
13
Rec: Error Handler
Sets the behavior when a hard drive
write error occurs.
• Stop recording
• Keep Recording to New File
14
Input: Routing
Allows the user to setup their routing
matrix among all available inputs and
tracks. There are four preset routings and
one custom routing available. Pressing
the input select key repeatedly will cycle
through all preset routings.
•1­A/2­B
•1­A/1­B
• 1 ­ A,B / 2 ­ A,B
•1­A/2­B/3­C/4­D
• 1,2,3 ­ A / 1 ­ B / 2 ­ C / 3 ­ D
• 1 ­ A,C / 2 ­ B,D
•3­C/4­D
• Custom Route
Primarily accessible from the Input
Select Key.
48
Setup Parameters
15
16
Input 1: 48V Phantom
Input 2: 48V Phantom
Enables or disables 48 V phantom power
on inputs 1 and 2.
• Off
• On - Mic
• On - Mic and Line
17
Mic Inputs: Limiter
Enables or disables the analog input
limiter on input 1 and 2 mic preamps.
• Disabled
• Enabled
18
19
Mic Input 1: Low Cut
Mic Input 2: Low Cut
Enables the high-pass (low cut) filter to
reduce sensitivity to low frequencies.
• Disabled
• Enabled
20
21
Mic Input 1: Low Cut Freq
Mic Input 2: Low Cut Freq
Selection of twelve high-pass filter
frequency and slope combinations for
microphone inputs.
• 40, • 80, • 160, • 240 Hz @ 12 dB/oct
• 40, • 80, • 160, • 240 Hz @ 18 dB/oct
• 40, • 80, • 160, • 240 Hz @ 24 dB/oct
22
23
Mic Input 1: Gain Range
Mic Input 2: Gain Range
Selects the sensitivity of the microphone
input. Low sensitivity is used for very
loud and/or very hot microphones.
• Normal
• Low
24
25
Input 1, 2: Source
Input 3, 4: Source
Forces the inputs to analog or digital
mode. Default is auto-select.
• Auto-select
• Analog
• Digital (S/PDIF/AES)
• Disabled (Power Save)
26
Input 1,2: Linking, MS
Selects whether the input 1 & 2 levels are • Unlinked
controlled independently or grouped as a
Inputs 1 and 2 operate independently
pair with or without mid-side decoding.
• Linked 1/2
Inputs are linked, channel 1 pot controls
level, channel 2 pot controls pan
• Linked 1/2 and MS
Inputs are linked, channel. 1 pot controls
level, channel. 2 pot controls pan and are
decoded for MS stereo.
27
Line Input 1,2: Gain Control
When inputs 1 and 2 are in LINE input
mode, selects whether the gain setting is
controlled by the front panel knobs or by
the menu sensitivity settings below.
• Use front panel knobs
• Use sensitivity settings
28
29
30
31
Line Input 1: Gain
Line Input 2: Gain
Line Input 3: Gain
LIne Input 4: Gain
Adjusts the input sensitivity in 0.1 dB
steps –6 dB and +18 dB.
Meters show a pre-fader level of the input signal of all four inputs on their respective meters
to aid in the adjustment.
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Setup Menu
#
Setup Name
Setup Description
Setup Parameters
32
33
34
35
Input 1: Delay
Input 2: Delay
Input 3: Delay
Input 4: Delay
Sets a digital delay for each input. Can
be used to compensate for delay in various digital wireless microphone units or
digital processors.
0 µsec to 30,000 µsec up to 48.048 kHz Fs
0 µsec to 15,000 µsec up to 96.096 kHz Fs
0 µsec to 7,500 µsec up to 192 kHz Fs
36
File: Marker Mode
Enables the user to set cue points on
the fly while recording by pressing the
record key.
• Markers disabled
No cue marks are set.
• New Cue
Cue markers will be set within one contiguous file.
• New File
A new file is started with each press of the
record key, the take counter is increased by
one.
37
File: Marker Pre-roll
New files created by the marker mode
can have the selected amount of pre-roll
appended to the beginning of each file,
when enabled.
• Disabled
• Enabled
38
File: Max Size
Selects the file size where the 744T will
close, then start a new file. The 744T will
not record a file larger than the selected
size.
The largest file permissible with the
744T’s FAT32 file system is 4 GiB
• OFF (4 GiB)
• 4 GB
• 2 GB
• 1 GB
• 640 MB
3.6 GB
1.8 GB
950 MB
450 MB
39
File: Folder Options
Selects whether files are placed in the
main “SOUNDDEV” folder, or a new
folder for each production day or unique
scene.
• Single folder
• Daily folder
• Scene Folder
40
File: View Files
Enters the file directory tree for the
selected drive.
Highlight media descriptor to navigate the
menu
41
File: Copy File Select
Allows the user to select a file or a range
of files to be copied from one media to
another. Files will only be copied from
their current directory to a directory of
the same name on the other media. If a
file will not fit on the destination media,
user is given the option to skip that file
and continue with the copy or abort the
copy all together. User is advised at the
end of the copy process how many files
were copied successfully.
• Copy all In HDD ­ CF
Copies all files and directories from the
internal hard drive to the Compact Flash.
• Last 24 hr ­ CF
Copies all files recorded in the last 24 hours
from the hard drive to the Compact Flash.
• Last 48 hr ­ CF
Copies all files recorded in the last 48 hours
from the hard drive to the Compact Flash.
• Flagged In HDD ­ CF
Copies all files on the internal hard drive,
that have their flag bit set to Compact Flash.
All files, when recorded, automatically
have their flag bit set to “on”
• Copy All CF ­ In HDD
Copies all files and directories on the Compact Flash to the hard drive.
• Last 24 hr ­ In HDD
Copies all files recorded in the last 24 hours
from the Compact Flash to the hard drive.
• Last 48 hr ­ In HDD
Copies all files recorded in the last 48 hours
from Compact Flash to the hard drive.
• Flagged CF ­ In HDD
Copies all files from the Compact Flash, that
have their flag bit set, to the hard drive.
42
File: Copy Flag Control
Selects whether the flag bit is cleared
or not on files copied from one media to
another.
• Disabled
• Enabled
49
744T User Guide and Technical Information
50
#
Setup Name
Setup Description
Setup Parameters
43
Time Code: Frame Rate
Sets the time code frame rate. All common time code frame rates are available.
• 23.976 – used with high definition video
cameras
• 24 – to sync audio to film where no transfer to
NTSC video is expected
• 25 – to sync sound to PAL video
• 29.97 – to sync sound to NTSC video shot in
non-drop frame mode
• 29.97DF - to sync sound to NTSC video shot
in drop frame mode
• 30 – to sync sound to film where transfer to
NTSC video is expected
• 30DF – to sync sound to film for transfer to
NTSC video in drop-frame mode
44
Time Code: Mode
Sets the mode for the time code generator
• Off – time code not active, recorded or output
• Free Run – time code is initialized from
the jam menu and then runs continuously
regardless of record mode
• Free Run Jam Once – time code is initialized
from an external source and updates itself to
the external source when reconnected
• Record Run – time code is initially set from
the jam value item in the jam menu. Time
code generation runs only during recording
generating continuous time code from file
to file.
• 24 Hr Run – time code is initialized from the
system clock on startup and enters free run
mode. Time code is updated if the time of
day clock is adjusted.
• Ext TC – applies external time code to the
recorder directly. The internal time code
generator has no effect.
• Ext TC/cont – applies external time code to
the recorder; internal generator continues to
run if time code signal is lost. Useful for time
code transmission over RF
• Ext TC-Auto Record – applies external time
code to the recorder. Unit enters Record
when time code runs and stops when time
code stops.
• Ext TC/cont-Auto Record – applies external
time code to the recorder; internal generator
continues to run if time code signal is lost.
Unit enters Record when time code runs and
stops when time code stops.
45
Time Code: User Bits
Sets the time code user bits generated
by the 744T.
mm – month
dd – day of week
yy – year
tt – take number
uu – user-defined
• Not Used – user bits are not set or output
• mm:dd:yy.tt
• dd:mm:yy.tt
• uu:uu:tt:tt – user bits are set to 4 user definable digits with 4 take digits
• uu:uu:uu:uu
• tt:tt:tt.tt – user bits are set to the take counter
for all 8 digits
• mm:dd:yy:uu
• dd:mm:yy:uu
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Setup Menu
#
Setup Name
Setup Description
Setup Parameters
46
Time Code: Jam Menu
Allows the user to jam or edit the internal
time code generator and user bits. (Also
accessible by pressing HDD and Menu
keys simultaneously).
• Jam RX TC – jams the internal generator to
received external code
• Jam Zeros – resets the internal generator to
zero
• Jam Value – sets the internal generator to the
value set in edit value
• Edit Value – allows to user to enter a freeform number to initialize the time code
• Edit U-Bit – allows the user to edit allowed
user bit numbers
47
Output 1 L,R: Source
Selects the signal source for the Master
Output Bus (TA3 outputs, tape outputs,
and digital 1 outputs.
• inputs 1 / 2
• inputs 3 / 4
• tracks A / B
• tracks C / D
• monitor A / B (post-record monitor)
• monitor C / D (post-record monitor)
48
Output 1 L,R: Attenuation
Selects the attenuation level of signal
sent to the Master Output Bus.
selectable from 0 to −40 dBFS
49
Output 2 L,R: Source
Selects the signal source for output bus 2
sent to digital output bus 2.
• inputs 1 / 2
• inputs 3 / 4
• tracks A / B
• tracks C / D
• monitor A / B (post-record monitor)
• monitor C / D (post-record monitor)
50
Output 2 L,R: Attenuation
Selects the attenuation level of the signal
output to bus 2.
selectable from 0 to -40 dBFS
51
Play: AutoPlay Mode
Allows user to play file(s) consecutively
from selected directory, one time through
or continuously.
• Disabled
• Play all
• Repeat one
• Repeat all
Great for playing an MP3 collection
during down time!
52
Time/Date: 12/24 Hr
Selects between 12 hour and 24 hour
time.
• 12 hr
• 24 hr
53
Time/Date: Date Format
Selects the date syntax of the recorder.
• mm/dd/yy
• dd/mm/yy
54
Time/Date: Set
Sets the internal date and time of the
744T.
<time, date>
Clock is not set until <done> is selected
Resetting the time re-jams the internal time code generator to the set
time. Setting the internal clock during
a production day will require time
code devices to be re-jammed.
55
LCD: Contrast
Sets the contrast level of the LCD display. 0–100%
In normal operation, should only need to
be set once
56
Meter: Ballistics
Selects among five different meter ballistics settings
• VU only
• Peak only
• Peak-hold only
57
Meter: Peak Threshold
User-set level in dBFS where track peak
LED’s illuminate. 0 LED doubles as track
peak indicator.
0 to −20 dBFS (1 dB increments)
58
Meter: Stealth Mode
Enables LEDs to toggle on and off with
the LCD backlight key.
• Off
• On
• Peak+VU
• Peak-hold + VU
51
744T User Guide and Technical Information
#
52
Setup Name
Setup Description
Setup Parameters
59
HP: Encoder Switch Function
Selects the functionality of the MultiFunction Controller’s button when in
record and playback.
• Disabled:
push makes no change to the headphone
matrix.
• Selects Favorite Mode:
in record and playback modes, push will
change the headphone source immediately
to the favorite selected in HP: Favorite Mode.
• Headphones to C/D Meters:
momentarily shows headphone level on
tracks C & D LED meters.
• Playback/Monitor Drive Select
Selects the media source for file playback
and record monitoring
60
HP: Monitor Modes
Select the sequence of the modes that
appear in the Headphone Source Display
on the LCD.
Up to 20 source selections can be entered, in
any order. See headphone monitor section in
guide for adjustment.
61
HP: Favorite Mode
Selects the audio source monitored when
the Multi-Function Controller is pressed
during recording or playback.
• inputs 1 / 2
• inputs 3 / 4
• tracks A / B
• tracks C / D
• monitor A / B
• monitor C / D
• input 1
• input 2
• input 3
• input 4
• track A
• track B
• track C
• track D
• monitor A
• monitor B
• monitor C
• monitor D
• inputs 1,2 (MS)
• inputs 3,4 (MS)
• tracks 1,2 (MS)
• tracks 3,4 (MS)
• monitor 1,2 (MS)
• monitor 3,4 (MS)
62
HP: Playback Mode
Selects the audio source sent to headphones upon playback.
• no change
• inputs 1 / 2
• inputs 3 / 4
• tracks A / B
• tracks C / D
• monitor A / B
• monitor C / D
• input 1
• input 2
• input 3
• input 4
• track A
• track B
• track C
• track D
• monitor A
• monitor B
• monitor C
• monitor D
• inputs 1,2 (MS)
• inputs 3,4 (MS)
• tracks A,B (MS)
• tracks C,D (MS)
• monitor A,B (MS)
• monitor C,D (MS)
63
HP: Warning Bell Level
Set the output level of the multi-function
warning bell.
off, −60 to –12 dBFS in 1 dB steps
64
Tone: Level
Set the output level of the reference tone
−40 to 0 dBFS in 1 dB steps
65
Tone: Frequency
Allows the user to set the frequency of
the reference tone oscillator
100–10,000 Hz in 100 Hz steps
66
Tone: Mode
Select the destination of the reference
tone or to disables it completely
• disabled
• to record tracks only
• to outputs only
• to record tracks and outputs
67
In HDD: Test
Performs a write/read speed test on the
internal hard drive. Data transfer speed is
measured in KB/s.
68
In HDD: Space
Shows the drive file system, total size,
and space remaining on the internal hard
drive.
firmware v. 1.24
Caution: Drive test will disable processing and mute outputs for duration of test.
Outputs will not return until test is exited.
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Setup Menu
#
69
Setup Name
In HDD: (Erase)
Setup Description
Setup Parameters
Formats the internal hard drive.
Caution, while various PC utilities
are able to recover files from a reformatted drive, once formatted old
audio data is not accessible by the
744T.
70
In HDD: Repair
Runs a utility to repair minor errors in the
directory (FAT) of the drive.
71
CF: Test
Performs a speed test on the Compact
Flash media installed. Data transfer
speed is measured in KB/s.
72
CF: Space
Shows the drive file system, total size,
and space remaining on connected
Compact Flash medium.
73
CF: (Erase)
Formats installed Compact Flash medium
Caution: Drive test will disable processing and mute outputs for duration of test.
Outputs will not return until test is exited.
Caution, while various PC utilities are able to recover files from
re-formatted drives, once formatted,
old audio data is not accessible by
the 744T.
74
CF: Repair
Runs a utility that will repair minor errors
in the directory structure of the Compact
Flash.
75
Balance Cal
Calibrates the center position of the input
2 pot when used as the balance control
for MS recording.
Place balance control to center and press to
select.
76
Power: Ext Low Batt Volt
Sets the warning voltage of the low battery alert with an external power source.
Internal battery warning threshold is
factory set.
10.0–18.0 VDC, 0.1 V steps
77
Info: Version
Shows the current hardware revision,
hardware serial number, and firmware
version.
78
Update Software
Upgrade tool used to apply new firmware
as provided by Sound Devices. Will
search all available media for the firmware program file and apply the update.
53
744T User Guide and Technical Information
Specifications
System
Sampling Frequency
internal: 32, 44.1, 48, 48.048, 88.2, 96, 96.096, 176.4, 192 kHz
external: 32–192 kHz via word clock input
Internal Data Path and
Processing
32 bit, 192 dB dynamic range
A/D, D/A Converters
24 bit, 192 kHz sample rate maximum. A/D converters on socketed, field-upgradeable
daughter board
A/D Dynamic Range
114 dB, A-weighted bandwidth
110 dB, 20 Hz – 22 kHz bandwidth
D/A Dynamic Range
112 dB, A-weighted bandwidth
108 dB, 20 Hz–22 kHz bandwidth
Metering
76-segment (4 x 19), sunlight-viewable
selectable peak, VU, or peak (with or without peak hold) with VU ballistics, variable brightness
Analog Input
(all measurements at Fs 96 kHz, 24 bit unless noted)
Frequency Response
Mic or Line: 10 Hz–40 kHz, +0.1, −0.5 dB (gain controls centered)
Equivalent Input Noise
Mic: −133 dBu max (−135 dBV), 50 ohm source, A-weighted filter
Mic: −131 dBu max (−133 dBV), 50 ohm source, 20 Hz–20 kHz BW flat filter, gain fully up
Mic: −130 dBu max (−132 dBV), 150 ohm source, A-weighted filter
Mic: −128 dBu max (−130 dBV), 150 ohm source, 20 Hz–20 kHz BW flat filter, gain fully up
THD + Noise
Mic: 0.004% max (1 kHz, 22 Hz–22 kHz BW, gain control down, −15 dBu input)
Line: 0.004% max (1 kHz, 22 Hz–22 kHz BW, gain control down, +16 dBu input)
Gain
(input dBu to −20 dBFS)
Mic (normal gain mode): 25–70 dB
Mic (low gain mode): 10–55 dB
Line: −6–18 dB, 0.1 dB increments
Input Impedance
Mic (XLR): 4k ohm
Line (XLR and TA3): 20k ohm
Input Clipping Level
Mic input: −5 dBu minimum (normal gain mode, gain control fully down)
Mic input: +10 dBu minimum (low gain mode, gain control fully down)
Line input: +26 dBu minimum (gain control fully down)
Input Topology
Mic and Line: fully electronically balanced, RF, ESD, short, and overload protected; pin-2 hot,
pin-3 cold
Gain Matching
Line inputs: ±0.1 dB, channel-to-channel
Common Mode Rejection
Ratio
Mic: 40 dB minimum at 80 Hz
High-Pass Filters
40, 80, 160, 240 Hz @ 12/18/24 dB/oct (all menu selectable)
Mic Powering
(each XLR selectable)
48 V phantom through 6.8k resistors, 10 mA per mic available, menu-selected per channel in mic
or line level positions
Mic Input Limiters
analog (pre-A/D converter), dual-stage optocoupler and FET,
−4 dBFS threshold, 20:1 limiting ratio, 5 mS attack time, 200 mS release time
Output Analog
54
Line Output Clipping
Level
+20 dBu minimum, 10k ohm load
Attenuation & Resolution
0–40 dB, 1 dB increments
Output Topology
Line: fully electronically-balanced, RF, ESD, short, and overload protected; pin-2 driven hot,
pin-3 driven cold; let pin-3 float for unbalanced connections.
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Specifications
Inputs/Outputs – Digital
AES3-id
75 ohm, 0.5 V p-p, S/PDIF compatible with RCA adapter
Digital Storage
Internal hard drive
ATA-5 interface 1.8-in or 2.5-in hard drive 4200–7200 RPM supported, FAT32 formatted, up to 2 TB
addressable
Compact Flash
CF type I, II, and + (microdrive) compatible, FAT32 formatted, up to 2 TB addressable
File Types
WAV or BWF (AES-31 format), mono or polyphonic, at supported Fs, 24-bit or 16-bit
MP3 @ 64, 96, 128, 240, or 320 kb/s stereo
Utilities
Format, speed test, and repair utility for internal HD and CF volumes
Data Transfer / Control
FireWire
peripheral-mode, IEEE-1394a compliant, 6-pin FireWire, Windows 2000, XP, Mac OS X only
C. Link
6-wire modular input and output, RS-232 machine control, word clock, time code transfer
Time Code
Modes Supported
free run, record run, 24 hour run, continuous jam
Frame Rates
23.976, 24, 25, 29.97DF, 29.97ND, 30DF, 30ND
Accuracy
<0.2 ppm, when tuned with Ambient Master Controller, holds TC clock for 8 hours after main battery removal (AA time code battery installed); after 8 hours, retains time of day
Powering
Internal Voltages
±16 VDC regulated audio rails
5 VDC data
3.3 VDC data
1.5 VDC DSP core
48 VDC phantom power
Power supply (batteries)
operating cell, removable 7.2 V (nominal) Sony M- or L-type Li-ion, operational from 6–8 V,
time code battery, 1.2 V AA nickel metal-hydride
Power supply (external)
10–18 V, 1000 mA minimum, via locking 4-pin Hirose connector, use Hirose #HR10-7P-4P
(DigiKey# HR100-ND) for locking mating DC connector; pin-1 (−), pin-2 (−), pin-3 (+), pin-4 (+).
See Powering section for additional details
Environmental
Operation and Storage
Ambient temperature 5–55° C,
Relative humidity (non-condensing) <80%
Other
LCD Display
202 x 32 pixels, extended temperature, backlit display
Tone Oscillator
100 Hz–10 kHz, variable output, assigned to tracks or outputs (menu-selectable)
Quick Setups
Four factory presets, one user setup stored to CF or HD as data file
Dimensions and Weight
Size
45 mm x 209 mm x 125 mm (H x W x D)
1.8” x 8.2” x 4.9”
Mass
unpackaged: 1.2 kg, (2.6 lbs) without battery
55
744T User Guide and Technical Information
Connector Pin Assignments
Each connector type, electrical characteristics, and pin assignment is shown below.
56
Connector
Pin Assignments
Notes
XLR
(Analog Inputs)
1 – ground
2 – signal (+)
3 – signal (-)
4000 ohm input impedance, mic level
20k ohm input impedance, line level
active-balanced
XLR
(AES Inputs)
1 – ground
2 – signal (+)
3 – signal (-)
transformer-balanced, for use 110 ohm twisted-pair
cabling, AES3 specification
TA3M
Inputs
1 – ground
2 – signal (+)
3 – signal (-)
20k ohm input impedance, line level
active-balanced. Mates with Switchcraft TA3F-type connector.
TA3M
Master Output Bus
1 – ground
2 – signal (+)
3 – signal (-)
120 ohm output impedance, active balanced.
For unbalanced connection, pin-1 ground, pin-2 hot,
pin-3 not connected. Mates with Switchcraft TA3F-type
connector.
3.5 mm
Master Output Bus
tip – signal L
ring – signal R
sleeve – signal ground
Master Output Bus signal in an unbalanced, consumerelectronic level.
3.5 mm
Headphone
tip – signal L
ring – signal R
sleeve – signal ground
mates with 3.5 mm TRS jack.
5-pin LEMO
Time code
1 – ground
2 – SMPTE In
3 – ASCII in/out
4 – tuning out
5 – time code out
LEMO B-series connector, pin assignments as viewed
on panel-mounted connector
AES3id (S/PDIF) Inputs
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
BNC female, unbalanced, coaxial connection, 75 ohm
connectors recommended
AES3id (S/PDIF) Outputs
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
BNC female, unbalanced, coaxial connection, 75 ohm
connectors recommended
Word Clock Input and
Output
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
BNC female, unbalanced, coaxial connection, 75 ohm
connectors recommended
FireWire (-1394)
center pin – signal
sleeve – ground
6-pin male FireWire cable
C. Link In / Out
1 – +3.3 V
2 – Tx (output)
3 – ground
4 – Rx (input)
5 – WC in
6 – TC in
Not a telephone jack!
Hirose 4-pin
DC Input
1 – ground
2 – ground, same as pin-1
3 – DC (+) charge
4 – DC (+) operate
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Power Consumption
Power Consumption Variables
The 744T draws power from either its on-board Li-ion battery or from external DC sources. Two
factors need to be considered to calculate battery runtime—battery/power supply capacity and unit
power consumption. The best determination of your run time is to experiment with a given recording setup.
The 744T power consumption varies over a range between 4 W to 20 W, depending on active functions. The following functions have the most significant affect on power consumption:
Inputs
Active analog inputs increase power consumption. If recording from digital sources, disable analog inputs, or inputs altogether to reduce power consumption. If recording solely to
inputs 1 and 2, disable inputs 3 and 4 to reduce power consumption. Analog inputs and the
microphone preamps draw current whether they are idle or active. Active inputs draw 1.5 W
compared to deactivated inputs.
Hard Drive Activity
When the unit is recording to or playing back from the internal hard drive, power consumption
raises by approximately 2 W.
Microphone Powering
Phantom powered microphones draw power for operation. Up to 1 W can be drawn from the
phantom supply.
Battery Chargers
Depending on the charge state of the on-board Li-ion and the internal AA time code battery,
the charging circuit can draw ~10 W from external DC.
Sampling Rate
The 744T draws more power at higher sampling rates. Each doubling of the sampling rate
adds ~1 W of power consumption.
Recording Time Calculation
The calculation of available 744T recording time involves three factors:
• track count - how many concurrent audio tracks are selected for recording.
• data rate - calculated from the sample rate and bit depth for non-compressed audio and by bit
rate for data compressed audio. Data rate determines how big the data “container” is for the
audio signal (see the calculation below for determining PCM audio).
• storage medium capacity - typically expressed in GB
Uncompressed Recording Time in Track-Hours
(1000 MB = 1 GB)
Storage in GB
Data Rate (bit depth/sample rate), one track
16/44.1
(5.05 MB/min)
16/48
(5.49 MB/min)
24/48
(8.24 MB/min)
24/96
(16.5 MB/min)
24/192
(33.0 MB/min)
1
3.30
3.03
2.02
1.01
0.51
2
6.60
6.07
4.05
2.02
1.01
4
13.2
12.1
8.09
4.05
2.02
8
26.4
24.3
16.2
8.09
4.05
15
49.5
45.5
30.3
15.2
7.59
40
132
121
80.9
40.5
20.2
60
198
182
121
60.7
30.3
100
330
303
202
101
50.6
The chart above shows recording time available with the 744T. Time is expressed in hours per track
(track-hours) at the specified data rate supported by the 744T. If recording two tracks, divide the
track hours figure by two. Similarly for four-track recording, divide track-hours by four. Note that
57
744T User Guide and Technical Information
the 744T supports additional sample rate / bit depth combinations, however, only the most common
are included below.
Record Time
The chart shows that when recording 24-bit/48 kHz audio to a 40 GB hard drive the maximum
amount of recording time available roughly 80 track-hours. If recording a stereo two-track file, this
yields 40 stereo hours of record time.
Note that most storage mediums now quote capacity in GB using SI units, where 1000 megabytes equals
one gigabyte.
PCM Audio
Uncompressed digital audio is expressed numerically by two measurements, bit depth and sampling
frequency, such as 16-bit/48 kHz. These two numbers are used to compute the data rate of uncompressed audio.
Audio Data Rate = Bit Depth x Sampling Frequency
In the example below the data rate of a single 16-bit/48 kHz audio stream is computed in megabytes
per minute. Division by 1,048,576 converts from bits to megabits. Division by 8 converts from megabits to megabytes; multiply by 60 converts seconds to minutes.
(((16 x 48000) / 1,048,576) / 8) x 60 = 5.49 MB/min
MP3 Compressed Record Time in Hours
(1000 MB = 1 GB)
Storage in GB
MP3 Data Rate (bit depth/sample rate), stereo track
64 kb/s
96 kb/s
128 kb/s
160 kb/s
192 kb/s
256 kb/s
320 kb/s
(0.47 MB/min)
(0.70 MB/min)
(0.94 MB/min)
(1.17 MB/min)
(1.40 MB/min)
(1.86 MB/min)
(2.34 MB/min)
1
35
23
17
14
11
8
7
2
71
47
35
28
23
17
14
4
142
94
71
56
47
35
28
8
284
189
142
113
94
71
56
15
533
355
266
213
177
133
106
40
1422
948
711
568
474
355
284
60
2133
1422
1066
853
711
533
426
100
3555
2370
1777
1422
1185
888
711
The chart above shows recording time available with the 744T when recording to an MP3 file. Time
is expressed in hours at the specified MP3 supported by the 744T. Note that all recordings are twochannel recordings.
Compressed Audio
When digital audio is compressed using some form of lossy, perceptual process such as MPEG2Layer3 (MP3 audio), Windows Media encoding (WMA), ATRAC encoding (used in MiniDisc), AAC
(MPEG-4 audio), or others - it can have a significant reduction in its data rate. Compressed audio has
enabled the practical distribution of audio over low speed data networks.
58
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Accessories
Accessories
Included Accessories
The accessories below are included with the 744T:
•
•
•
•
•
Worldwide (100–240 VAC to 12 VDC, 24 W) mains power supply
Li-ion removable rechargeable battery, 1500 mAh
XL-14 3.5 mm to 1/4-inch jack for headphone output extension
XL-RJ C. Link cable for unit-to-unit linking
Padded man-bag
Optional Accessories
The above accessories are just the start of building a flexible recording kit that can accommodate
multiple types of connections. Available accessories from Sound Devices include:
•
XL-WPH
power adapter included with unit; 100–240 VAC input, 12 VDC output; it’s good to have a
spare
•
XL-B
removable, rechargeable, Li-ion battery; 1500 mAh battery; it’s good to have several spare
•
CS-7
PortaBrace bag with shoulder strap, holds 744T and RM accessories; mounts onto CS-442 and
CS-302 mixer bags
•
XL-1A (sold as pair)
TA3F to TA3F cable, used to connect the direct outputs of the a Sound Devices 442 mixer to the
channel 3/4 analog line-level inputs
•
XL-2 (sold as pair)
TA3F to XLR-M cable, used for output connection from the master analog output
•
XL-2F (sold as pair)
XLR-F to TA3F cable, used for input connection to line inputs 3 and 4
•
XL-BNC
BNC to BNC cable, to connect word clock from external sources to the 744T for synchronizing
the 744T; also used to sync external devices from the word clock of the 744T.
•
XL-LB
5-pin LEMO to BNC, used to jam video cameras from the 744T.
•
XL-LL
5-pin LEMO to 5-pin LEMO, used to connect the 744T time code circuit to Ambient time code
sync boxes, slates, and controllers or to jam one 744T to another 744T; additionally used to jam
Aaton cameras from the 744T
•
XL-LX
5-pin LEMO to XLR-M and XLR-F, used to connect the time code output to SMTPE time code
inputs and outputs
59
744T User Guide and Technical Information
Menu Navigation Shortcuts
To speed navigation the 744T has numerous navigation “shortcuts”. The following is a complete list.
acts as an escape key and exits from most menus and functions immediately
drops all functions except file copy and begins recording
+
press simultaneously to enter the time code jam menu
+
press backlight then tone to lock all front panel buttons except for Record, Stop and Play. FF
and Rev are available in playback mode. Use backlight and tone again to unlock the panel.
press repeatedly to cycle through input routing presets. Last preset will open the input routing
menu to the custom route selection
+
toggles input 1 phantom power
+
toggles input 2 phantom power
+
toggles input 1 high-pass
+
toggles input 2 high-pass
60
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Warranty and Support
Warranty and Technical Support
Warranty & Service
Sound Devices, LLC warrants the 744T Portable Audio Recorder against defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of ONE (1) year from date of original retail purchase. This is a non-transferable warranty that extends only to the original purchaser. Sound Devices, LLC will repair or
replace the product at its discretion at no charge. Warranty claims due to severe service conditions
will be addressed on an individual basis. THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE
ARE EXCLUSIVE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR
IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY OR UNDER ANY
OTHER LEGAL THEORY. Because some jurisdictions do not permit the exclusion or limitations set
forth above, they may not apply in all cases.
For all service, including warranty repair, please contact Sound Devices for an RMA (return merchandise authorization) before sending your unit in for repair. Product returned without an RMA
number may experience delays in repair. When sending a unit for repair, please do not include accessories, including CF cards, batteries, power supplies, carry cases, cables, or adapters unless instructed by Sound
Devices.
Sound Devices, LLC
Service Repair RMA #XXXXX
300 Wengel Drive
Reedsburg, WI 53959 USA
telephone: (608) 524-0625
Technical Support / Bug Reports
For technical support and bug reporting on all Sound Devices products contact:
Sound Devices, LLC
E-mail: [email protected]
web: www.sounddevices.com/contact_support.htm
Telephone: +1 (608) 524-0625 / Toll-Free in the U.S.A.: (800) 505-0625
Fax: (608) 524-0655
Sound Devices hosts a support forum for 7-Series recorders. The URL is:
www.sounddevicesupport.com
Sound Devices cannot guarantee that a given computer, software, or operating system configuration can be used satisfactorily with the 744T based exclusively on the fact that it meets our minimum
system requirements.
Please check with your software editing application to make certain that it is compatible with the file
type selected.
61
744T User Guide and Technical Information
Software License
End-user license agreement for Sound Devices 7-Series Embedded Software / Firmware
Important Read carefully: This Sound Devices, LLC end-user license agreement (“EULA”) is a legal agreement between you (either
an individual or a single entity) and Sound Devices, LLC for the Sound Devices, LLC software product identified above, which includes
computer software, embedded software, and may include associated media, printed materials, and “online” or electronic documentation
(“SOFTWARE PRODUCT”). By using, installing, or copying the SOFTWARE PRODUCT, you agree to be bound by the terms of this
EULA. If you do not agree to the terms of this EULA, do not use or install the SOFTWARE PRODUCT.
Software Product License
The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is protected by copyright laws and international copyright treaties, as well as other intellectual property laws
and treaties. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is licensed, not sold.
Grant of license. This EULA grants you the following limited, non-exclusive rights: In consideration of payment of the licensee fee, Sound
Devices, LLC, as licensor, grants to you, the licensee, a non-exclusive right to use this copy of a Sound Devices, LLC software program
(hereinafter the “SOFTWARE”) on a single product and/or computer. All rights not expressly granted to licensee are reserved to Sound
Devices, LLC.
Software ownership. As the licensee, you own the hardware on which the SOFTWARE is recorded or fixed. Sound Devices, LLC shall
retain full and complete title to the SOFTWARE and all subsequent copies of the SOFTWARE, regardless of the media or form on or in
which the original copies may exist. The license is not a sale of the original SOFTWARE.
Copyright. All rights, title, and copyrights in and to the SOFTWARE PRODUCT (including, but not limited to, any images, photographs,
animations, video, audio, music, text, and “applets” incorporated into the SOFTWARE PRODUCT) and any copies of the SOFTWARE
PRODUCT are owned by Sound Devices, LLC or its suppliers. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT is protected by copyright laws and international treaty provisions. Therefore, you must treat the SOFTWARE PRODUCT like any other copyrighted material, except that you may
make copies as only provided below. You may not copy the printed materials accompanying the SOFTWARE PRODUCT.
Restrictions on use. Licensee may not distribute copies of the SOFTWARE or accompanying materials to others. Licensee may not
modify, adapt, translate, reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble, or create derivative works based on the SOFTWARE or its accompanying printed or written materials.
Transfer restrictions. Licensee shall not assign, rent, lease, sell, sublicense, or otherwise transfer the SOFTWARE to another party without prior written consent of Sound Devices, LLC. Any party authorized by Sound Devices, LLC to receive the SOFTWARE must agree to
be bound by the terms and conditions of this agreement.
Termination. Without prejudice to any other rights, Sound Devices, LLC may terminate this EULA if you fail to comply with the terms and
conditions of this EULA. In such event, you must destroy all copies of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT and all of its component parts.
Limited Warranty
No warranties. Sound Devices, LLC expressly disclaims any warranty for the SOFTWARE PRODUCT. The SOFTWARE PRODUCT and
any related documentation is provided “as is” without warranty or condition of any kind, either express or implied, including, without limitation, the implied warranties and conditions of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose, or non-infringement. The entire risk arising
out of use or performance of the SOFTWARE PRODUCT remains with you.
No liability for damages. In no event shall Sound Devices, LLC or its suppliers be liable for any damages whatsoever (including, without
limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or any other pecuniary loss) arising
out of the use of or inability to use this Sound Devices, LLC product, even if Sound Devices, LLC has been advised of the possibility of
such damages. In any case, Sound Devices, LLC’s entire liability under any provision of this evaluation license shall be limited to the
greater of the amount actually paid by you for the SOFTWARE PRODUCT or U.S. $5.00. Because some states/jurisdictions do not allow
the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may not apply to you.
Governing Law
This agreement and limited warranty are governed by the laws of the state of Wisconsin.
62
firmware v. 1.24
Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Notes
Notes
63
744T rev. 1.24