What to do if the record-enabled tracks' meters do not indicate input levels on my Alesis ADAT-XT20?
If the record-enabled tracks' meters aren't showing input levels, the issue might be with your cables or input selection. First, check your audio cables to ensure they are properly connected and not shorted. If that doesn't work, and 'DIGITAL INPUT' is selected, press the '[ANALOG INPUT]' button.
Why does the display not light up when I turn on the Alesis ADAT-XT20 Recording Equipment?
If the display doesn't light up when you turn on your Alesis Recording Equipment, it's likely due to a power issue. Check that the power cable is properly plugged in.
What does it mean when the Interpolation indicator lights or flashes on my Alesis Recording Equipment?
If the Interpolation indicator is lit or flashing on your Alesis Recording Equipment, it indicates that one or more errors have been detected or corrected. To resolve this, clean the tape heads and create a backup copy of your tape.
What to do if my Alesis ADAT-XT20 Recording Equipment doesn't follow the master in a multiple ADAT system?
If your Alesis Recording Equipment, when used as a slave in a multiple ADAT system, isn't following the master, it could be due to a missing ADAT master signal. Check the sync cables and then power down only the Master, and restart it.
What does it mean when the FORMAT icon flashes on my Alesis Recording Equipment?
If the FORMAT icon is flashing on your Alesis Recording Equipment, it means the tape is not formatted. You should format the tape or reinsert it.
Why can’t I change the sample rate or clock source on my Alesis ADAT-XT20 Recording Equipment?
If you're unable to change the sample rate or clock source on your Alesis Recording Equipment, and it's being used as a slave in a multiple ADAT system, the EXT clock is automatically selected. To adjust these settings, you need to set the sample rate and clock source on the master XT20.
What does it mean when the 48K or 44.1K icon flashes on my Alesis ADAT-XT20?
If the 48K or 44.1K icon is flashing on your Alesis Recording Equipment, it indicates that the tape was formatted at a different sample rate than the one currently selected. You can press '[CLOCK SELECT]' to use the original sample rate if desired.
What to do if the TIME counter does not show tape position on my Alesis ADAT-XT20?
If the TIME counter isn't displaying the tape position on your Alesis Recording Equipment, it's likely that Edit mode is active. Press '[EDIT VALUE]' to disable Edit mode.
What does it mean if pressing [AUTO REC] displays 'invALid' on my Alesis Recording Equipment?
If pressing '[AUTO REC]' displays 'invALid' on your Alesis Recording Equipment, it means that Locate Point 3's position is set before Locate Point 2. Adjust the locate points by setting Locate Point 3 past Locate Point 2.
What does it mean when the AUTO RETURN icon flashes on my Alesis ADAT-XT20?
If the AUTO RETURN icon is flashing on your Alesis Recording Equipment, it indicates that Locate Point 4's position is set before Locate Point 1. Correct this by setting Locate Point 4 past Locate Point 1.
General| Audio Channels | 8 |
|---|---|
| Bit Depth | 16-bit |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
| MIDI | Yes |
| Form Factor | Rackmount |
| Type | Digital Multitrack Recorder |
| Recording Media | S-VHS Tape |
| Weight | 22 lbs |
| Sample Rate | 48 kHz |
| Input/Output | 8 x Analog Inputs (XLR/TRS Combo), 8 x Analog Outputs (XLR/TRS Combo) |
| THD+N | < 0.05% |
| Sync | ADAT Sync |
| Recording Time | Up to 40 minutes (with standard S-VHS tape) |
| Dimensions | 19 x 5.25 x 14 inches |
Initial setup and verification of included items.
Connecting the unit to AC power and safety considerations.
Troubleshooting hums and buzzes caused by grounding issues.
Protecting the unit from power line noise and surges.
Guidelines for selecting and routing audio cables for optimal performance.
Connecting audio inputs and outputs for basic operation.
Configuring analog input modes for different mixer setups.
Understanding tape threading modes and their implications.
Recommendations and importance of using specific tape types.
Guidelines for optimal unit performance and longevity.
Managing heat for reliable operation and ventilation.
Placement advice for non-rack installations.
Preventing interference from external electronic sources.
Initial power on sequence and inserting a tape.
Essential step to prepare tapes for recording and timecode.
Choosing between 16-bit and 20-bit audio quality.
Setting the audio sample rate (48kHz or 44.1kHz).
Step-by-step guide to formatting a blank tape.
Recording audio during the tape formatting process.
Basic steps for recording audio onto tracks.
Enabling tracks for recording and adjusting input levels.
Understanding the tape time display and modes.
Overview of controls for moving the tape.
Procedures for starting and managing recording.
How to play back recorded audio.
Techniques for quickly locating sections of tape.
Storing and recalling specific tape positions.
Setting up auto-return and auto-play for continuous playback.
Using locate points for automatic punch-ins and outs.
Practicing auto-record sequences without actual recording.
Adjusting tape speed and its effect on pitch.
Adjusting the playback timing of individual tracks.
Copying audio between tracks digitally.
Adjusting the screen brightness.
Connecting unbalanced analog sources to the unit.
Details on the physical input connectors.
Common methods for connecting analog inputs.
Connecting unbalanced analog outputs to other gear.
Connecting balanced analog audio for noise reduction.
Configuring how analog inputs are routed to tracks.
Connecting for synchronization between multiple units.
Connecting for digital audio transfer via optical cable.
Understanding digital audio data formats.
Connecting external foot controls for operation.
Operating the unit with the remote control.
Preparing tapes for recording, including formatting types.
Important factors before and during tape formatting.
Erasing and reformatting an entire tape.
Recording audio during the tape formatting process.
Extending the format on partially formatted tapes.
Enabling recording on tapes with write-protect tabs removed.
Understanding the information presented on the unit's display.
Explaining the meaning of various icons shown on the display.
Using the time counter and switching between ABS/REL modes.
Function of the Locate 0 button for setting time references.
Overview of the editing functions available.
Entering and exiting edit modes.
Adjusting parameter values using up/down buttons.
Inputting numerical data for parameters.
Modifying specific digits within parameter values.
Choosing the audio input source (Analog, Digital, Track Copy).
Configuring analog input modes and routing.
Recording from digital audio sources.
Copying audio between tracks digitally.
How to monitor input signals during recording.
Monitoring input signals automatically for record-enabled tracks.
Monitoring all input signals regardless of track status.
Understanding and adjusting the level meters.
Controlling peak hold behavior on the meters.
Resetting peak indicators on the meters.
Enabling a mode for precise level adjustments.
Creating a reference tape for system checks.
Preparing tracks for recording.
Adjusting input levels for optimal recording without clipping.
Operating tape transport functions like Play, Rewind, etc.
Removing the tape from the unit.
Fast reverse playback and audio review.
Fast forward playback and audio cueing.
Starting playback of recorded audio.
Procedures for starting and stopping recording.
Functions of the stop button, including threading/unthreading.
Selecting internal or external clock sources and sample rates.
Setting smooth transitions during punch-ins/outs.
Adjusting time display format for sync.
Adjusting tape speed and pitch.
Considerations when altering pitch.
Adjusting the playback timing of individual tracks.
Managing locate points for automated tape movement.
Understanding tape time references.
Setting the zero point for relative time.
Storing specific tape positions for recall.
Navigating the tape using stored locate points.
Creating continuous playback loops.
Automatically rewinding to a specified point.
Automatically starting playback after a locate.
Safeguard feature for auto-looping.
Creating recording loops for repeated takes.
Automating the start and end points of recording.
Practicing auto-record sequences.
Setting the unit for different tape lengths.
Connecting and using footswitches.
Using footswitches for punch-in/out recording.
Using footswitches for tape location.
Operating the unit with the remote control.
Introduction to building multi-unit ADAT systems.
Connecting and synchronizing multiple ADAT units.
How master and slave units control each other.
Establishing sample-accurate synchronization.
How slaves operate when the master is stopped.
Tape formatting procedures in multi-unit systems.
Formatting with master control.
Extending format with master control.
Formatting without master control.
Extending format without master control.
Recording digital audio between units.
Copying audio digitally between machines.
Rerouting digital audio channels to different tracks.
Creating safety copies of recorded tapes.
Creating compatible copies for older machines.
Recording digital audio from non-ADAT sources.
Managing clock sources for digital audio sync.
Adjusting tape position relative to the master for editing.
Using XT20s with original ADATs.
Interaction between sample rate and pitch adjustments.
Monitoring input signals in multi-unit setups.
Understanding phase issues between different ADAT models.
Notes on cable length for connecting multiple units.
Introduction to the chapter's content.
Using the unit as a recorder and mixdown device.
Applications for live sound and extended recordings.
Syncing the unit to video timecode.
Controlling the unit via MIDI and sequencers.
Integrating with sequencers for MIDI-based recording.
Using MIDI for remote transport control.
Using a PCI card for computer control and audio transfer.
Using the unit for archiving audio material.
Collaborative recording workflows with multiple units.
Rerouting digital audio using the Track Copy function.
Determining tape offsets using locate points.
Fundamental principles of analog audio recording.
How digital audio recording works.
Benefits of higher bit-depth audio.
Explanation of the tape format used.
Table of common problems and their solutions.
Interpreting tape error rates.
Understanding what tape error readings mean.
Information on the expected lifespan of the unit's heads.
Procedures and recommendations for cleaning and maintaining heads.
Displaying head drum usage time.
Guidelines for proper tape handling and storage.
General tips for unit upkeep.
Instructions for cleaning the unit's exterior.
Information on when and how to get professional service.
Procedures for sending the unit for repair.
Reference for understanding and resolving error messages.
Procedure to recalibrate the unit's transport brakes.
Initial troubleshooting steps before contacting support.
Technical specifications related to tape transport.
Technical specifications related to audio processing.
Specifications for analog audio connections.
Specifications for digital audio connections.
General specifications like power, dimensions, and weight.
Definition of analog-to-digital conversion.
Definition of automatically finding tape positions.
Definition of automated recording start/end points.
Definition of synchronization to timecode.
Definition of signal distortion due to exceeding maximum levels.
Definition of smooth transitions between audio segments.
Definition of digital input/output connections.
Definition of optical signal transmission.
Definition of Musical Instrument Digital Interface.
Definition of analog signal sampling.
Definition of Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers timecode.
Definition of Super Video Home System tape format.
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