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The Fostex FR-2
designed specifically for location sound recording; high quality sound effects acquisition; TV & radio documentary; in fact any application where quality audio recording is required.
With excellent quality (up to 24-bit / 192KHz recording - a first for a CF recorder), huge feature list and a cost-effective price point, the FR-2 offers users of portable DAT and other formats the opportunity to
make the switch to a more flexible, higher quality audio acquisition machine without sacrificing features.
Excellent Audio Compatibility
In adopting the BWF Broadcast WAV file format, the FR-2 offers what is now the most popular choice for professional recording. It can be set to record mono or stereo files with
16 or 24-bit quantisation over a vast range of frequencies from 22.05kHz for extended recording time up to 192kHz for the highest quality audio acquisition. Transferring files for editing and/or backup is fast and
simple via a Compact Flash reader attached to a computer; a PCMCIA slot and/or a CF adaptor - ideal for those editing with a laptop; or indeed the on-board USB port.
Professional Features
The FR-2 incorporates a number of features developed through Fostex’s work in location DVD-RAM recording with the PD-6 and DV40.
Automated file/take naming speeds up time spent
naming files between takes on location and complies with both US and Euro clapper board standards. In addition, the inclusion of a ‘pre-record’ buffer (user adjustable) means there should never be another missed
take or lost soundbite!
Easy to use Controls
Taking its cue from the PD-6 timecode DVD location recorder and Fostex’s excellent pedigree in portable timecode DAT recording, the FR-2 is ergonomically designed so that all controls
fall easily to hand. The large 132 x 64 dot matrix display provides clear and concise information at all times, while innovative features such as automated file/take naming enhance still further the usability.
Interfacing
The FR-2 is very well connected: the two analogue inputs, switchable between Mic & line on XLR connections, link to top quality microphone pre-amps with selectable phantom power, while
analogue out is offered on RCA connectors. Digital I/O is selectable between AES/EBU and S/P-DIF, again on balanced XLR connections.
The USB ports allow direct connection to a PC or Mac (Mac OS 10.2 or later)
with an additional port allowing for an external keyboard to be used to aid file naming and operation.
Robust Design, Tough Construction
Designed from the ground up to withstand the rigours of in-the-field use, the FR-2 is constructed out of high-grade materials and tried & tested components.
Timecode
The FR-2 can be retrofitted with the optional Model 8347 Timecode Reader/Generator card available from LTF (phone or email for details).
Using standard phono (RCA) connectors,  the card can be fully configured through the FR-2's front panel display to
provide all standard frame rates including 23.976 and 29.97drop; pull-up and pull-down and jam sync. The generator can work in 24 hour, Rec Run, Free Run or external, with output being
set to repro or gen. The addition of the timecode card allows FR-2 to be used for location recording where portability is key and on sets not requiring a high number of independent tracks. The FR-2
will become an ideal addition to a sound mixers arsenal also finding a use as a timecode backup machine to his/her main recorder. For more details read our Overview of the FR2 with 8347 Timecode Card.
All Bases Covered
Excellent audio integrity, fully flexible recording, top quality mic amps, extensive interfacing plus optional timecode prove the Fostex FR-2 has all bases covered
Main Features
- Recording industry standard, PC-compatible BWF files (stereo/mono) on a FAT32 media format
- Up to 24-bit/192kHz uncompressed recording
- Includes a unique 22.05kHz sampling frequency setting for extended recording
- Records to both Type II CompactFlash™ cards and PCMCIA 1.8” hard disk drives (note 1)
- Fostex’s “File per Take” system with auto scene & take naming/increment
- Two balanced XLR microphone inputs with switchable phantom power and top quality, high headroom mic pre-amps
- 132 x 64 dot matrix LCD screen for ease of use & high visibility in the field
- Uses AA-sized rechargeable NiMH batteries which are widely available due to the popularity of digital cameras. 8 AA cells will provide approximately 2.5 hours operation when recording to a CF card
- Easy file transfer to PC/Mac via PCMCIA, CF adaptor or standard on-board USB connection for data editing and/or backup (note 2)
- Quick and easy on-board file naming or via external keyboard through standard USB keyboard port
- "Pre-record" loop buffer of approximately 10 seconds (note 3)
- Easy software update via CF or PCMCIA card with downloads from the internet
- Optional timecode generator / reader card
Notes:
1: May require software update for PCMCIA HD operation
2: Complies with Windows ME/2000/XP, Mac OS 10.2 or higher
3:
Varies depending on sampling frequency
Recording Times
- A 1GB CF card offers 86 minutes of stereo recording at 16bit/48kHz and 28 minutes at 24bit/96kHz.
- A 5GB hard disk offers 434 minutes of stereo recording at 16bit/48kHz and 144 minutes at 24bit/96kHz.
- Note: Maximum size of any one file is 4GB. The Fostex FR-2 manual states on page 53 a maximum of 2GB; a subsequent software revision has increased this.
Go to Detailed Specifications
Check out “What Is Needed To Get It On The Road”.
View or download FR-2 brochure (Adobe™ ‘pdf’ @ 310kB)
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