Fostex A-2 - How to Use this Manual

NOTE: ІҒ опе or both RECORD MODE selectors is
depressed, and the transport is placed in play mode, step-
ping on the foot switch once will cause the track(s) to
enter record mode; stepping on the switch a second time
will cause the track(s) to bunch out (cease recording).
If the transport is manually placed in record mode by press-
ing the RECORD and PLAY buttons, the foot switch cannot
be used for a punch out.
29. INPUT JACKS
These 2 jacks apply line level signals to the RECORD MODE
selectors and ultimately to record channels ! and R. Connect
the buss or line outputs from the mixer to these jacks.
INTRODUCTION
The Fostex Model А-2 is a compact, full capability 2 track
mastering machine that utilizes 1/4” wide recording tape.
The machine has fully synchronous record/play capability for
sync recording and punch-in recording. There are 2 input
jacks, with a front panel selector switch for each track which
set the tracks to either the SAFE or record READY mode.
SECTION 2
The Model A-2 tape play/record speeds are 15 inches per se-
cond (38 cm/s) and 7-1/2 inches per second (19 cm/s), and
has very low wow and flutter, and a high signal-to-noise ratio.
Of special interest to musicians and song writers is a remote
FOOT SWITCH that begins and ends recording. Thus, hands
remain free for playing instruments, etc. during punch-ins
and punch-outs. A PITCH control varies both the record and
playback speed, and is useful for a variety of effects such as
tuning or retiming programs. Other convenient features in-
clude an electronic counter and large LED display which con-
stantly read out the tape position. To facilitate playback, a
zero return pushbutton automatically rewinds the tape and
stops it at a count approximately 0000 (there may be а small
overshoot). The dump edit feature allows spilling a portion of
tape, for editing purposes, without winding it onto the takeup
reel.
Fostex's engineers have designed the А-2 to meet the
special needs of the serious small studio or production facili-
ty. It combines ease of operation, excellent flexibility and low
operating costs in an extremely reliable package. Your А-2
will provide years of top audio performance with a minimum
of servicing. Routine maintenance takes less time because
Fostex provides easy access to the transport and record/
reproduce amplifiers.
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
While it may be possible to "get by" without reading this
manual, the utmost in creative results can only be obtained
when one is thoroughly acquainted with the А-2 and its full
capabilities. We suggest quickly reading this manual once
before using the A-2, then re-reading the manual later, after
becoming familiar with the basic functions of the machine.
4
30. OUTPUT JACKS
These 2 jacks normally carry the output from tracks L and R
of the recorder. An exception occurs, however, if any of the
INPUT selector buttons is depressed, in which case the
associated output(s) are derived from the input to the track
rather than the reproduce amplifier output.
31. AC POWER CORD
Plug this cord into an AC power outlet. Check the label on the
А-2 rear panel to ensure it is compatible with the power line
voltage and frequency.
Section 1 contains brief descriptions of each feature. This is
handy for quick reference, although for a more detailed step-
by-step guide to connections, recording and playback, con-
sult Sections 3 and 4. The rest of the manual deals with more
specialized areas such as editing (Section 5), creative use of
the pitch control (Section 6), and maintenance (Section 7).
Routine maintenance procedures, such as degaussing and
cleaning, should be done on a regular basis. Alignment can
be done regularly, or may be needed less often, depending
on the demands of the application, environmental factors,
and whether tape formulations change. Servicing should be
referred only to qualified service personnel.