Fostex XR-7 User Manual

CHAPTER
1
How to use the XR-7
Direct recording
The XR-7 allows you to overdub four tracks one by one, and also to record four different
sound sources on four tracks simultaneously. This is called "direct recording."
Recording a multitrack performance by yourself
if you a re able to play more than one instrument, a multitrack recorder can be a very valuable
music-making tool. For example, six channels carrying six different sounds can be routed
to two tracks. If you are able to use MIDI instruments, you can use the tape sync function to
create large orchestral arrangements. This manual will explain first how to record one sound
source on a single track, and gradually move on to more complex possibilities.
Once you understand the basic principles, multitrack recording is quite simple and easy.
Using professional recording techniques
You may record a favoritesongbyyour favorite professional musician, then record your own
performance on a different track, accompanying the song. By using the pitch control to slow
■ down the tape speed, you can more easily transcribe and learn how to play rapid phrases.
You can also practice your part to your satisfaction using the instrument rehearsal mode {*)
with a normal tape speed. If you make a few mistakes, these can be easily corrected using
the punch in/out function with the rehearsal function. Try out these professional techniques.
(*) Refer to the Rehearsal button section on page 11 to learn how to switch the tape speed
to nonnal speed. However, "Rehearsal" and "Pitch control" do not function when normal
speed is selected.
Some important terms used in this manual
This section explains some of the important terms used in this manual, which you need to
understand in order to take advantage of the XR-7.
Sound source
Instruments or microphones connected to the XR-7 are collectively called "sound sources."
Signal
The XR-7 is able to record not only sound from sound sources, but also FSK signals used by
the tape sync function. Thus, sounds and signals are collectively explained as "inputsignals"
or "output signals."
Overdubbing
The process of playing back a previously-recorded signal on one track while recording a
different signal on another track is called "overdubbing."
On cassette radio players or stereo cassette decks, it is not possible to listen to the sound
recorded on the left track while recording a new sound on the right track. However, the
XR-7's overdubbing capabilities allow you to successively record new sounds on empty
tracks.
Monitoring
As explained above, "overdubbing" includes the act of listening to a previously-recorded
sound. This "listening to a previously-recorded sound" is often referred to as "monitoring."
The word "monitor" means to check or verify, and in this manual's explanation of the
recording process, listening to a previously-recorded track or checking the input signal to
be newly recorded is referred to as "monitoring."
4

Fostex XR-7 Specifications

General

Brand	Fostex
Model	XR-7
Category	Recording Equipment
Language	English