Multitrack Cassette Recorder User’s Guide Manuel de l’utilisateur Bedienungsanleitung Guía del Usuario 1 2 MIC/LINE 3 MIC/LINE GAIN 4 MIC/LINE GAIN MASTER MIC/LINE GAIN GAIN AUX RETURN 1 2 1 LINE HIGH MIC LINE HIGH MIC LINE HIGH MIC LINE HIGH MIC 2 1 ASSIGN 3 2 ASSIGN 4 3 4 LEVEL -12 MID +12 -12 MID +12 -12 MID +12 -12 MID +12 -12 LOW +12 -12 LOW +12 -12 LOW +12 -12 LOW +12 -12 AUX +12 -12 AUX +12 -12 AUX +12 -12 AUX +12 AUX 1 AUX 2 AUX 1 AUX 2 AUX
FCC INFORMATION (U.S.A.) 1. IMPORTANT NOTICE: DO NOT MODIFY THIS UNIT! This product, when installed as indicated in the instructions contained in this manual, meets FCC requirements. Modifications not expressly approved by Yamaha may void your authority, granted by the FCC, to use the product. 2. IMPORTANT: When connecting this product to accessories and/or another product use only high quality shielded cables. Cable/s supplied with this product MUST be used. Follow all installation instructions.
1 Precautions Precautions 1 Avoid excessive heat, humidity, dust, and vibration. Keep the MT4X away from locations where it is likely to be exposed to high temperatures or humidity, such as direct sunlight, near radiators, stoves, etc. Also avoid locations which are subject to excessive dust accumulation or vibration which could cause mechanical damage. 2 Avoid physical shocks Strong physical shocks can cause damage. Handle the unit with care.
Introduction 2 Introduction Your MT4X Multitrack Cassette recorder is a powerful recording tool that will allow you to capture your music at a very high level of sound quality. It is an advanced technology, easy-to-use four-track cassette tape recorder with a comprehensive four-channel mixer. In order to make use of the many features of the MT4X and to obtain the best performance, please read this manual thoroughly — and keep it in a safe place for future reference.
3 4 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 0 7 MAX 0 0 0 2 4 10 1 10 10 10 10 CUE LEVEL 8 MIN 4 3 2 1 0 ASSIGN 2 9 PHONES CUE STEREO GROUP 3 10 MONITOR SELECT 0 3 1 LEVEL 4 2 AUX RETURN ASSIGN 1 MASTER L/MONO AUX RETURN MONITOR/PHONES 2 1 3 1 2 10 L 7 R 8 AUX SEND 1 9 MIC/ LINE 2 10 R EVEN 4 TAPE C L ODD PAN 3 2 ASSIGN AUX 2 1 +12 AUX 1 0 -12 LOW +12 +12 0 -12 MID -12 AUX 0 MIC MIC/LINE LINE HIGH GAIN
Introduction 4 Structure of the MT4X The MT4X can be divided into three basic sections – the mixer, the recorder, and the bus lines which connect them: Mixer The mixer has four input channels. It adjusts the input signals at each respective channel and sends them to the bus lines. The signals input to each channel of the mixer can be switched to either input signals (MIC/LINE) or playback signals (TAPE). When TAPE is selected, the playback signal from each track is input to the corresponding channel.
Controls and Connections Power Connections POWER ON OFF R R L/MONO 2 L/MONO 2 SYNC/4 1 3 2 1 1 R L R AUX RETURN MONITOR OUT AUX SEND L 4 TAPE OUT 3 2 STEREO OUT 1 MIC/LINE INPUT 1 Controls and Connections AC IN 5 Rear Panel Connections Master Module Channel Modules 1 2 MIC/LINE 3 4 MIC/LINE MIC/LINE GAIN GAIN MASTER MIC/LINE GAIN GAIN AUX RETURN 1 2 1 LINE HIGH 0 MIC LINE HIGH 0 MIC LINE HIGH 0 Recorder Controls MIC LINE HIGH 0 MIC 2 1 ASSIGN 3 2
Controls and Connections 6 Channel Modules 1 MIC/LINE 1 GAIN control GAIN This rotary control adjusts the level of the signal from a microphone or instrument plugged into the MIC/LINE INPUT connector (h). 2 1 LINE HIGH 0 -12 MID 0 -12 LOW 0 -12 AUX 0 MIC Equalizer controls These rotary controls are used to adjust the high, middle and low band frequency levels. To help you select the “flat” setting easily, each control has a centre-detent at the “0” position.
7 Controls and Connections ODD/L: Rotated fully counter-clockwise sends the signal to the odd (1 or 3) numbered track of the selected track group (ASSIGN keys 4) and to the left channel of the STEREO bus. EVEN/R: Rotated fully clockwise sends the signal to the even (2 or 4) numbered track of the selected track group (ASSIGN keys) and to the right channel of the STEREO bus. 6 Input select (TAPE - MIC/LINE) key This key selects the input source for the channel.
Controls and Connections C 8 Master fader This linear control is used to set the level of the master stereo bus. For optimal performance and signal balance, the fader should be positioned between 7 and 8. Recorder Controls D Cassette tape compartment E Multi-function display This FLD (Fluorescent Light Display) shows the operating modes and signal levels of the MT4X. See "Multi-function Display" on page 10.
9 Controls and Connections When the automatic punch-in/out function is active, the REPEAT key causes the MT4X to immediately start the rehearsal mode. See "Using the automatic punch-in/out function" on page 21. Note: The repeat interval must be more than three counts on the tape counter (Y). I RETURN TO ZERO key This key rewinds the tape to the point where the tape counter (Y) reads “0000”. The tape counter flashes while the tape rewinds.
Controls and Connections 10 Transport Controls R REHE key and indicator This key is used to perform a recording rehearsal. While the LED indicator over the key is illuminated, you can simulate a recording session. This allows you to check recording levels or practice punch-in/out without actually recording. S REHE REC/PAUSE PLAY R S T REW FF U V STOP W REC/PAUSE key and indicator This key is used to record.
11 Controls and Connections Y Tape counter This indicator displays tape position. Z Level meters These indicators display the signal level within a range of -20 dB to +9 dB. The individual tracks and the stereo bus are displayed. • When dbx™ is off, the normal signal limit is approximately 0 dB. • When dbx™ is on, the normal signal limit is approximately +6 dB. Note: The meters can be switched to peak hold.
Controls and Connections 12 Rear Panel Connections f MONITOR OUT connections • Output impedance: 1 kΩ • Nominal output level: -10 dB (at 10 kΩ load) These RCA/Phono connectors are used to plug in a monitor amplifier or powered loudspeakers. The same signal which is output from the PHONES connector (d) is also output from these connectors.
13 Controls and Connections Power Connections l AC IN inlet Connect the supplied power cord here. m POWER switch AC IN l POWER ON OFF m This switch turns the power on and off. Note: Always make sure the Master fader (C) is set to “0” and the MONITOR/PHONES level control is set to “MIN” when turning the MT4X on or off. CAUTION (FOR CANADIAN MODEL) TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.
Compressor Microphone Bass Effect Processor Bassguitar Synthesizer MIDI Converter 1 1 MIDI OUT 2 TAPE OUT FSK Signal 2 3 MIDI IN SYNC/4 MIC/LINE INPUT 1 Rhythm Programmer 3 AUX SEND Delay Processor 2 Sequencer 4 L/MONO MIDI IN 1 MIDI IN L STEREO OUT R MIDI OUT L R AUX RETURN L/MONO User’s Guide MONITOR OUT 2 Multi-effect Signal Processor NS-10M STUDIO FC5 Footswitch Headphones Master Recorder Amplifier 2 R R MIDI OUT Example System Example System 14 NS-10M STUDIO
15 Recording Functions 3 Recording Functions The basic functions of multitrack recording are as follows: Monitoring Monitoring the recording or playback to listen for mistakes or unwanted distortion. Initial recording Overdub recording Recording the first instrument or part. Punch-in/out recording Ping-pong recording Mixdown Correct mistakes or add short segments to an existing track. Recording additional instruments or parts while monitoring the previously recorded tracks.
Recording Functions 16 Initial recording The first step in multitrack recording is to record the initial tracks. Usually, these are your rhythm tracks: bassguitar, rhythm guitar, and drums. Note: Before you record anything, you must connect the MT4X to both an input source and a monitoring system. See "Example System" on page 14. d ban on a poep e l Track 1 Track 2 Track 3 Track to be recorded Track 4 Preparations for recording 1) Insert a cassette tape into the cassette tape compartment (D).
17 Recording Functions 5) Using the ASSIGN keys (4) and the PAN control (5) select the group bus you want the input signal to go to. Press the ASSIGN key: Press the ASSIGN key: Press the ASSIGN key: Press the ASSIGN key: 1 2 1 2 3 4 3 4 Group 1 → Track 1 Group 2 → Track 2 Group 3 → Track 3 Group 4 → Track 4 and rotate the PAN control: The input signal is sent to the first (odd) group. and rotate the PAN control: The input signal is sent to the second (even) group.
Recording Functions 18 Note: The meters display a range of -20 dB to +9 dB. If the meters exceed the normal limit momentarily, this is usually perfectly acceptable. Cassette tape is reasonably forgiving of transients – and human hearing has difficulty detecting the minor distortion that results. Where you start getting audible problems is when the meters are constantly above the normal limit. You must lower the levels in order to maintain decent sound quality. 9) Press the REC/PAUSE key (S).
19 Recording Functions Overdubbing Overdub recording is the basis of all multi-track recording. It enables you to record additional instruments or parts track-by-track while listening to the previously recorded tracks. Track 1 Track to be overdubbed Track 2 Track 3 Drum track Track 4 Preparations for recording 1) Connect the input source for each channel to the corresponding MIC/LINE INPUT connector.
Recording Functions 20 Rehearsal After you have set the recording levels, you should rehearse the overdub to verify and adjust the settings and cue levels. 11) Press the PLAY key to start the rehearsal. The indicator above the key lights and the MT4X starts the tape. Start playing. Tip: Sometimes the pitch of an instrument and the pitch of the previously recorded tracks is slightly different.
21 Recording Functions To overdub another part, simply repeat steps 1 to 17. Track 1 Bassguitar track Track 2 Track to be overdubbed Track 3 Drum track Track 4 Punch-in/out recording This technique is used to re-record short sections, correct mistakes, or add new sections to silent passages. You play your part while punching in and out to start and stop the recorder. For the greatest precision, you should use the advanced automatic punch-in/out features of the MT4X.
Recording Functions 22 The REC SELECT - TRACK indicator on the display will flash. +9 6 3 0 3 6 10 -20 +9 6 3 0 3 6 10 -20 TAPE 9.5 1 2 3 4 REHE L REC/PAUSE PLAY R Note: You can skip step 2 at this point. However, you must select a track before you perform the actual recording.
23 Recording Functions The AUTO PUNCH and START indicators (^) on the display and the indicator above the REHE key will begin flashing. TAPE 9.5 AUTO PUNCH +9 6 3 0 3 6 10 -20 +9 6 3 0 3 6 10 -20 START 1 2 3 4 REHE L REC/PAUSE PLAY R Note: The AUTO PUNCH indicator will either be flashing or illuminated while the automatic punch-in/ out function is active. 4) Press the PLAY key (or step on the footswitch) to play the tape.
Recording Functions 24 Rehearsal The MT4X automatically enters rehearsal mode after you have assigned the punch-in and punch-out points. This mode allows you to practice the punch-in/out operation before you actually commit anything to tape. Note: In this mode, you can press the REPEAT key (H) to start Repeat Rehearsal. The MT4X will automatically perform rehearsal playback between the pre-roll point and the post-roll point. For more detail, see "Repeat Function" on page 42.
25 Recording Functions At the punch-in location, the START indicator will switch off, the IN indicator will light, and the indicator above the REC/PAUSE key and the REC SELECT - TRACK indicator will light. TAPE 9.5 AUTO PUNCH +9 6 3 0 3 6 10 -20 +9 6 3 0 3 6 10 -20 IN 1 2 3 4 REHE L REC/PAUSE PLAY R Play the punch-in part.
Recording Functions 26 Status indicators During the operation of the automatic punch-in/out function, you can determine the status by checking the indicators shown in the following table: Function Display Indicators AUTO PUNCH START IN LEDs OUT 2 REHE REC/PAUSE PLAY Mark the pre-roll point (see step 3). AUTO PUNCH 2 START (slowly) Start the tape playing (see step 4). If you press the AUTO PUNCH I/O key while the tape is playing, the operation starts here.
27 Recording Functions Using the REC/PAUSE key and the PLAY key Blank space Blank space Track to be re-recorded Punch-in point PLAY REC/PAUSE Segment to be re-recorded Punch-out point PLAY STOP Note: When you perform a punch-in/out recording, you need to find a blank section of about 1 second for your punch-in and punch-out locations. This is because of the gap between the erase head and record/playback head.
Recording Functions 28 Using the optional footswitch Blank space Blank space Track to be re-recorded Punch-in point Play Segment to be re-recorded Record Punch-out point Play Stop Note: When you perform a punch-in/out recording, you need to find a blank section of about 1 second for your punch-in and punch-out locations. This is because of the gap between the erase head and record/playback head.
29 Recording Functions Ping-pong recording Ping-pong recording allows you to bounce several previously-recorded tracks onto an unrecorded track. Using this technique, you can create a recording with effectively more than four tracks. There are two basic techniques you can employ when making a bounce-down recording: • Mixing three previously-recorded tracks onto a destination track. • Overdubbing a new sound source during a ping-pong recording.
Recording Functions 30 If required, add effects using the AUX SEND and AUX RETURN controls and connectors. Adjust the effects for each channel. Note: You cannot apply effects to the individual tracks nor can you adjust the sound balance once you have mixed them onto a single track. You must apply any effects, and adjust the equalization and balance, during the bounce-down recording. 9) Press the RETURN TO ZERO key to stop and rewind the tape. Recording 10) Press the REC/PAUSE key.
31 Recording Functions This technique is a combination of overdubbing (see "Overdub recording" on page 15) and ping-pong recording. 1) Connect the input source for the overdubbing channel to its corresponding MIC/LINE INPUT connector. 2) Set the input select key to the MIC/LINE position. 3) Rotate the GAIN control to adjust the level of the input signal. 4) Use the ASSIGN keys and the PAN control to select the group bus for the destination track.
Recording Functions 32 Mixdown Mixdown is the process of combining the four individual tracks into a final stereo mix. You blend and polish the sounds before you record them onto a stereo cassette recorder or DAT recorder. The mix is created using the various mixer controls. You adjust the track levels with the channel faders, change the equalizations, and modify the stereo image with the pan controls.
33 Recording Functions Rehearsal 5) Press the PLAY key to start playback. 6) Adjust the channel levels with the channel faders. Set the equalization with the HIGH, MID, and LOW equalizer controls (2). Use the Pan control to adjust the pan position. Set the aux send level with the AUX SEND controls (3). Adjust the auxiliary return levels with the LEVEL controls (9). Set the levels and other parameters of any connected signal processing equipment. Adjust the record levels on the master recorder.
Synchronization 4 34 Synchronization The MT4X has the ability to synchronize MIDI sequencers, rhythm programmers, and other devices to the existing tracks on your tape. The following section describes some of the advanced techniques you can employ. When you create an overdub recording, you play along with the previously recorded tracks – matching the tempo. This is easy for a guitarist, vocalist, or keyboard player, but not so easy for a MIDI sequencer or rhythm machine.
35 Synchronization FSK recording Record FSK signals on track 4 The MT4X is equipped with a dbx™ noise reduction system. For recording normal audio signals, the noise reduction system is beneficial. However, dbx™ interferes with the recording of FSK signals. This sometimes results in an unusable sync track. Therefore, the MT4X is also equipped with a SYNC key.
Synchronization 16) 36 Start the MIDI instrument. Run the song program on the MIDI instrument from beginning to end. The Song Start, Tempo (and tempo changes), and Song End are recorded onto the FSK track. 17) When the MIDI program has completed, stop the MIDI instrument and press the RETURN TO ZERO key to stop and rewind the tape.
37 Synchronization Connections and setup 1) Plug a compatible cable from the TAPE OUT - SYNC/4 (k) connector into the MIDI/FSK input on your sequencer, rhythm machine, or converter. Set the connected MIDI instrument to FSK sync mode, to receive the FSK signals from the MT4X. Set any other connected MIDI instruments to MIDI clock mode to slave to the MIDI device receiving the FSK signals.
Synchronization 38 The MIDI instrument(s) will playback in sync with the data recorded on track 4. Note: If the MIDI instrument does not play correctly, you probably started the tape at a point after the FSK signal began. You must ensure the tape plays back from before the start of the FSK track. Play the overdub part along with the MIDI instrument(s) and the previously recorded tracks. 7) Adjust the recording and monitoring levels while watching the level meters.
39 Synchronization Synchronized mixdown You can use the FSK signal to synchronize MIDI instruments to the previously recorded tracks on the MT4X while you are creating a mixdown recording (see "Mixdown" on page 32). One of the advantages of this technique is that you can add multiple instruments to your mix without having to bounce-down tracks. To take full advantage of this technique, you may have to use an external mixer.
Synchronization 3) 40 Plug compatible cables from the other TAPE OUT connectors (1, 2, and 3) into the inputs of your mixer. Tip: An alternative approach is to create a stereo mixdown with the built-in mixer and send that to the external mixer from the STEREO OUT connectors. 4) Connect the audio outputs from the MIDI instruments to the mixer inputs. 5) Connect the stereo inputs of the master recorder to the stereo outputs of the mixer.
41 Memory Functions 5 Memory Functions Memo Function Store a memory location You can mark two memory locations which can be used to quickly return to a specific point on your tape. 1) Fast-wind or rewind the tape to the location you want stored. For example, you can locate the end of a track just by stopping the tape. 2) Press the MEMO-1 or MEMO-2 key (O). The corresponding MEMO indicator (a) will flash three times and then light. TAPE 9.
Memory Functions 42 Repeat Function The MT4X will repeatedly play a section of the tape between two memory locations. 1) Press the REPEAT key (H). The MT4X will fast-wind or rewind the tape to the first memory location. While the tape transport is in fast-wind or rewind mode, the REPEAT indicator (b) will flash on the display. TAPE 9.5 1 MEMO REPEAT 2 2) +9 6 3 0 3 6 10 -20 +9 6 3 0 3 6 10 -20 1 2 3 4 L R As soon as the MT4X has reached the first memory location, playback is started.
43 Memory Functions 2) Press the REC SELECT key (G) corresponding to the track you want to check. The maximum level segment of the selected track will light and the tape counter will display the corresponding location value for as long as the two keys are pressed. If the level is beyond the recommended level, the segment will flash. The following display shows Track 2 being checked. TAPE 9.
Appendix 44 Appendix Troubleshooting If you experience difficulty operating the MT4X, or it does not seem to be working as it should, look up the problem in the following table. You may find it is just a simple error, easy to correct. Symptom Possible Cause Solution The MT4X cannot be powered ON. The power cable is not correctly connected. Make sure the power cable is connected to a suitable AC outlet and plugged into the AC IN connector on the MT4X’s rear panel.
45 Appendix Maintenance The MT4X requires regular maintenance to remain in top operating condition. If you observe the following problems, you should clean and possibly demagnetize the unit: • A drop in level at high frequencies. • An increase in wow and flutter. • Fluctuating sound or signal dropout. • Excessive noise. Cleaning the recording head and components The record/playback head is in constant contact with the recording tape.
Appendix 46 Specifications Model 4-track/4-channel one direction recording and playback cassette recorder with mixer Tape Transport Tape Type Track Configuration Heads Motor Tape Speed Pitch Control Wow & Flutter C-46 ~ 90 cassette tapes CrO2 - Type II (Bias: HIGH; EQ 70 µs) 4-track/4-channel one direction recording and playback 4-track Hard Permalloy record/play head × 1 4-track ferrite erase head × 1 DC servo motor × 1 9.5 cm/sec , 4.8 cm/sec Approximately ±10% 0.1% WRMS (9.
47 Appendix Specifications (continued) Signal-to-Noise ratio (at nominal input and output) 68 dB / IHF-A 75 dB / IHF-A Distortion (1 kHz at nominal input and output) 0.1% / 30 kHz LPF 0.
Appendix 48 Block Diagram HA EQ BA TAPE MID HIGH GAIN AUX HIGH MID LOW AUX P dbx R CUE LEVEL 2 TAPE OUT 2 (METER) MIC/ LINE EQ BA TAPE P HIGH LOW PAN GAIN AUX dbx R CUE LEVEL 3 TAPE OUT 3 (METER) MIC/ LINE HA TAPE OUT 1 PAN GAIN EQ BA TAPE P HIGH GAIN MID PAN LOW 4 CUE LEVEL 1 BA TAPE HA R (METER) EQ MIC/LINE INPUT 3 dbx MIC/ LINE HA MID 2 P PAN LOW 1 GROUP ST AUX 1 2 3 4 L R 1 2 CUE MIC/ LINE AUX dbx R CUE LEVEL 4 TAPE OUT SYNC/4 (METER)
49 Appendix Dimensions W: 414.2 D: 311 .3 H: 110 .7 Tracking Sheet There is a tracking sheet template on the back cover of this manual. You should make a number of photocopies and use them to keep a log of your recording sessions.
Appendix Overdubbing Recording the synthesizer and MIDI tone generator: MIXER Channel 1 TAPE Input RECORDER 2 3 TAPE MIC/LINE TAPE X Synth MIC/LINE Track 4 1 2 3 TAPE X MIDI Organ MIC/LINE 4 Synth & MIDI Organ MIC/LINE Source Source 1 Assign 2 3 4 1 X 2 3 C 1 X 4 3 2 1 4 3 AUX 2 C 1 R EVEN L ODD OFF L ODD R EVEN OFF Start 2 C Rotary speaker effect Pan L ODD POSITION 4 Channel C L ODD R EVEN OFF R EVEN OFF Effect Stop 0042 0499 Aux AUX 1 AUX
51 Appendix Mixdown Add equalization and effects and record to the master recorder: MIXER Channel Input 1 X X TAPE 3 X TAPE MIC/LINE Drum Bass Machine 1 3 2 1 4 3 Track 4 X TAPE MIC/LINE 2 1 4 3 1 C R EVEN L ODD OFF 2 1 4 3 C R EVEN L ODD OFF AUX 2 POSITION 4 1 Start 2 C R EVEN 4 Source Vocal Flanger reverb delay Pan L ODD 3 MIC/LINE Channel C 2 TAPE MIC/LINE Synth Lead & & MIDI backing Organ vocals Source Assign RECORDER 2 L ODD OFF R EVEN OF
Appendix 52 recording. The signal is expanded and then de-emphasized on playback. The MT4X uses dbx™ noise reduction to reduce noise and keep your recordings clean and crisp. Demagnetizer A hand-held device that removes the residual magnetic field that routinely builds up on a recording head. Without demagnetizing (also called degaussing), this residual magnetic field can cause distortion. Use of a demagnetizer is an integral part of maintaining any tape recorder.
53 Appendix MONITOR/PHONES control Controls the amount of signal fed to the speakers through the left and right MONITOR OUT jacks or to the stereo PHONES (headphone) jack. Multitrack A tape recorder with more than two tracks. The MT4X is a four-track machine. Each track can be independently recorded at an optimum level, and then mixed, equalized, processed, and panned into a final mixdown. Overdub recording Recording one track while listening to another track or tracks.
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