User manual ZOOM MRS-4

Operation Manual Thank you for purchasing the ZOOM MultiTrak Recording Studio MRS-4 (subsequently referred to as "the MRS-4"). The MRS-4 offers the following attractive features. Simultaneous 4-track playback/2-track recording 8 virtual takes per track add up to a total of 32 takes available for recording. Flexible track parameter settings Hi/Lo EQ, effect send, and other parameters can be set individually for each track. Bounce feature supports recording from 4 tracks of simultaneous playback Even when there are no empty tracks, the MRS-4 allows you to bounce existing material onto 2 tracks, while performing simultaneous playback of 4 tracks. Versatile effects The MRS-4 incorporates an insert effect for processing the input signal, a send/return effect for use in a mixer loop, and a mixdown effect for use on the master bus. Other sophisticated features Metronome, MIDI output, AUX input, long-stroke faders, and other exciting features make the MRS-4 a great all-round package. In order to take full advantage of the MRS-4's versatile functionality and to ensure trouble-free enjoyment, please read this manual carefully. Keep this manual in a safe place together with the warranty card. USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Safety Precautions · · · · Extreme temperature High humidity or moisture Excessive dust or sand Excessive vibration or shock Contents Contents USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Introduction Internal configuration ········ USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS 2 4 4 Reference [Mixing] ······························· 37 ········································· ································· Handling In this manual, symbols are used to highlight warnings and cautions for you to read so that accidents can be prevented. The meanings of these symbols are as follows: This symbol indicates explanations about extremely dangerous matters. If Warning users ignore this symbol and handle the device the wrong way, serious injury or death could result. This symbol indicates explanations about dangerous matters. If users ignore this symbol and handle the device the wrong way, bodily injury and damage to the equipment could result. Caution · Since the MRS-4 is a precision electronic device, avoid applying excessive force to the controls. Do not operate the keys or controls with your foot. · Take care that no foreign objects (coins or pins etc.) or liquids can enter the unit. · Be sure to turn the power to all equipment off before making connections. · Before moving the unit, turn the power off, and disconnect all cables and the AC adapter. Recorder section · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 4 Effect section · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 5 Mixer section · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 5 Assigning two inputs to a track · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 37 Adding the input signal to the mixdown · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 38 Linking two tracks (stereo link function) · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 39 Reference [Track Editing] ······················ 40 40 41 42 43 44 SmartMedia ··········································· 5 Parts of the MRS-4 ······························· 6 Top panel · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 6 Rear panel · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 7 Front panel · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 7 Copying a specified region of data to another location · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Copying the data of an entire track · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Erasing a specified segment · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Erasing an entire track · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Exchanging the data of entire tracks · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Alterations Caution Never open the case of the MRS-4 or attempt to modify the product in any way since this can result in damage to the unit. Connections ········································· ······························· 8 9 9 9 Reference [Song Functions] · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 46 Song menu basic functions · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 46 Song menu items · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 47 Creating a new song (SONG NEW) · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Reading in an existing song (SONG SELECT) · · · · · · · · · Checking the remaining recording time (SONG CAPACITY) · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Copying a song (SONG COPY) · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Deleting a song (SONG DELETE) · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Protecting a song (SONG PROTECT) · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Selecting the recording grade (SONG GRADE) · · · · · · · 47 47 47 48 48 49 49 Power on/off switching Turning power on Turning power off ···································· ···································· ······················· Caution In Case of Trouble Caution Operating the unit on batteries 9 Please observe the following safety tips and precautions to ensure hazard-free use of the MRS-4. About power Since power consumption of this unit is fairly high, we Warning recommend the use of an AC adapter whenever possible. When powering the unit from the batteries, use only an alkaline type. If there seems to be a defect or a problem with the unit, immediately disconnect the AC adapter or remove the batteries to shut off the power. Then disconnect any other cables connected to the unit. Basic Operation · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 10 Step 1 Preparations for recording Step 2 Recording the first track ···················· 10 12 1-1 Creating a new song · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 10 ····················· Usage Precautions 2-1 Adjusting input sensitivity · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 12 2-2 Using the insert effect · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 13 2-3 Selecting a track and recording on it · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 15 Reference [Metronome/MIDI] ················· 50 Step 3 Overdubbing ································· 17 AC adapter operation · Be sure to use only an AC adapter which supplies 9 V DC, 300 mA and is equipped with a "center minus" plug (Zoom AD-0006). The use of an adapter other than the specified type may damage the unit and pose a safety hazard. · Connect the AC adapter only to an AC outlet that supplies the rated voltage required by the adapter. · When disconnecting the AC adapter from the AC outlet, always grasp the adapter itself and do not pull at the cable. · If the unit is not to be used for a long time, disconnect the AC adapter from the outlet. 3-1 Adjusting input sensitivity and setting the insert effect · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 17 3-2 Selecting and recording to a track · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 17 Basic metronome settings · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 50 Functions available with MIDI · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 51 Synchronizing an external device to the MRS-4 · · · · · 51 · Electrical interference For safety considerations, the MRS-4 has been designed to provide maximum protection against the emission of electromagnetic radiation from inside the device, and protection from external interference. However, equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves should not be placed near the MRS-4, as the possibility of interference cannot be ruled out entirely. With any type of digital control device, the MRS-4 included, electromagnetic interference can cause malfunctioning and can corrupt or destroy data. Care should be taken to minimize the risk of damage. Step 4 Mixdown ······································ 18 18 19 21 25 27 Reference [Other Functions] ·················· 52 52 53 54 55 4-1 Preparations for mixdown · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 4-2 Adjusting volume/pan/EQ · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 4-3 Using the send/return effect · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 4-4 Using the mixdown effect · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 4-5 Recording on the master recorder · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Using the tuner · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Formatting a SmartMedia card · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Display adjustments · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Using the AUX IN jacks to save tracks · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Reference [Recorder] ··························· 28 Specifications ····································· 56 Battery operation · Use four IEC R6 (size AA) batteries (alkaline or manganese). · The MRS-4 cannot be used for recharging. Pay close attention to the labelling of the battery to make sure you choose the correct type. · If the MRS-4 is not to be used for an extended period of time, remove the battery from the unit. · If batteries leakage has occurred, wipe the battery compartment and the battery terminals carefully to remove all remnants of battery fluid. · While using the unit, the battery compartment cover should be closed. Using V-takes · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 28 Combining multiple tracks (Bounce function) · · · · · · · 29 Re-recording only a specified region (Punch-in/out function) · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 30 Using manual punch-in/out · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 31 Using auto punch-in/out · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 31 MRS-4 file configuration · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 57 File compatibility with PS-02 · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 57 MRS-4 Card Manager Software · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 57 Troubleshooting ·································· 58 58 58 59 59 59 · Cleaning Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the MRS-4. If necessary, slightly moisten the cloth. Do not use abrasive cleanser, wax, or solvents (such as paint thinner or cleaning alcohol), since these may dull the finish or damage the surface. Reference [Locating a Point] ················· 33 Moving to a desired point in a song (Locate function) · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 33 Switching between time and measure indication · · · · 33 Marking a point in a song (marker function) · · · · · · · · 34 Assigning a mark · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 34 Moving to a mark location · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 34 Clearing a mark · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 35 Playback problems · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Problems with recording · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Problems with effects · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Problems with MIDI · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · Other problems · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · MIDI Implementation ···························· 60 MIDI implementation · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 60 MIDI implementation chart · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 61 Environment Avoid using your MRS-4 in environments where it will Caution be exposed to: Please keep this manual at hand for future reference. Index ················································· 62 Playing back the same passage repeatedly (A-B Repeat) · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 36 2 ZOOM MRS-4 ZOOM MRS-4 3 Introduction This section shows the various sections of the unit and explains some important concepts of the MRS-4. Introduction V-take 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Track 1 234 Internal configuration assigning the input signal to various tracks, and a track mixer that adjusts level and sound quality for each track before sending the result to the left and right MASTER jacks. The illustration below shows the signal flow and how the sections fit together. Now let's take a closer look at each section. Currently selected V-takes Track mixer Serves to mix the playback signal of the recorder before sending it to the stereo output jacks. The signal from each of tracks 1 ­ 4 is sent to the mixer channels 1 ­ 4 for individual adjustment of EQ, effect send level, panning (left/right playback position), etc. These items are called track parameters. Introduction The MRS-4 is divided internally into the following three sections. Recorder section The MRS-4 is a 4-track recorder that uses SmartMedia cards for storing data. This allows audio recording/playback on four tracks. Effect section The audio signal can be processed in various ways by the effect section. The MRS-4 offers an insert effect for the input signal as well as a send/return effect and mixdown effect for use on the recorderd signal. Mixer section This section is used for mixing the various signals and supplying them to the other sections. There is an input mixer for INPUT SmartMedia Effect section The MRS-4 provides three types of effects: insert effect, mixdown effect, and send/return effect. These effects have different characteristics, as described below. Insert effect This effect operates directly after the input mixer. It is used to modify the input signal before it is recorded. Mixdown effect This effect operates directly before the MASTER faders of the track mixer. It is used to modify the signal mixed from tracks 1 ­ 4. Send/return effect This effect is internally connected to the send/return loop of the mixer section. The effect can be adjusted individually for each track by using the send level control. The higher the setting, the stronger the effect. To use the MRS-4, a SmartMedia card is required. Before turning the MRS-4 on, insert the card into the front panel slot, as shown in the illustration below. Recorder section The recorder section of the MRS-4 has four tracks (separate segments for recording audio data). Up to two tracks can be recorded simultaneously, and up to four tracks can be played back simultaneously. Each of the tracks 1 ­ 4 has eight virtual tracks (called "V-takes"). In each track, one V-take can be selected for recording/playback. For example, you can record guitar solos onto multiple V-takes, and then compare them later to select the best take. SmartMedia Correct Wrong MASTER [L]/[R] Caution Input mixer Insert effect Track 1 Track 2 Track 3 Track 4 AUX IN Recorder 1 2 3 4 MASTER Mixer section The MRS-4 has two types of mixers. Send/return effect Mixdown effect Internal configuration Input mixer Serves to adjust the instrument or mic signal input to the MRS-4 and to assign the signal to the desired track. If the card is inserted upside down or with wrong orientation, it does not go all the way in. Do not try to force the card in, because this will damage the card. Never insert or remove the SmartMedia card while power to the unit is turned on. Otherwise data may be lost. Standard SmartMedia cards (designed for 3.3V) with a capacity from 16 ­ 128 MB can be used. When wishing to use a SmartMedia card that has been formatted in other equipment such as a computer or digital camera, you must format the card again in the MRS-4, as described on page 53. Track mixer 4 ZOOM MRS-4 ZOOM MRS-4 5 Parts of the MRS-4 Top panel [SONG/UTILITY/TUNER] key [INPUT LEVEL] controls 1/2 [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 [TRACK PARAMETER] key Display [AUTO PUNCH IN/OUT] key [DC 9V] jack [A-B REPEAT] key MARKER [U]/MARKER [I] keys [MARK/CLEAR] key [POWER] switch [MIDI OUT] connector MASTER [L]/[R] jacks [PHONES] jack Rear panel Parts of the MRS-4 Parts of the MRS-4 AUX IN [L/MONO]/[R] jacks [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks Front panel SmartMedia card slot [MIXDOWN] key [SEND/RETURN] key [METRONOME] key [BOUNCE] key Card access indicator Track status keys 1 ­ 4 Track faders 1 ­ 4 MASTER status key MASTER fader [PARAMETER/VALUE] keys [ENTER/YES] key [EXIT/NO] key ZERO [U] key REW [T] key FF [Y] key STOP [P] key PLAY [R] key REC [O] key 6 ZOOM MRS-4 ZOOM MRS-4 7 Connections When a line level signal such as that from a CD player or rhythm machine is connected to the AUX IN [L/MONO]/[R] jacks, it will be output from the MASTER [L]/[R] jacks together with the mixed playback signal from the tracks of the MRS-4. For a stereo device, use both the [L/MONO] and [R] jacks. For a mono device, use only the [L/MONO] jack. CD player or other external source component Guitar Multi-effect such as 505II Monitor system Master recorder Power on/off switching Caution When operating the unit with the AC adapter, always use the [POWER] switch of the MRS-4 to turn the unit on and off. Never disconnect the AC adapter while the card access indicator is lit. Otherwise data may be destroyed. To turn the MRS-4 on or off, proceed as follows. Turning power on Connect the monitor system or master recorder to the MASTER [L]/[R] jacks. 1. Make sure that the MRS-4 and all other devices are turned off. Turn down the volume at the source equipment, MRS-4, and monitor system. Operating the unit on batteries The MRS-4 can be powered from batteries (not supplied). Follow the steps below to insert the batteries. Connections Connections Mic 2. Insert the SmartMedia card into the SmartMedia card slot on the front panel of the MRS-4, as described on page 5. 1. Turn the unit over and open the battery compartment cover. 3. Set the [POWER] switch of the MRS-4 to ON. The MRS-4 starts up. MRS-4 underside 4. Turn the monitor system on. Turning power off 2. 1. Headphones AC adapter To power the MRS-4 from an AC outlet, be sure to use only the AC adapter ZOOM AD0006 (available separately). Using another kind of AC adapter may result in damage. To monitor with headphones, plug them into the [PHONES] jack. This jack carries the same signal as the MASTER [L]/[R] jacks Turn the monitor system off. Insert four fresh IEC R6 (size AA) batteries into the battery compartment. The use of alkaline batteries is recommended. 2. To synchronize operation of the recorder section of the MRS-4 with another MIDI device, connect the [MIDI OUT] connector of the MRS4 to the MIDI IN connector of the other device Rhythm machine, MIDI sequencer or other MIDI device Set the [POWER] switch of the MRS-4 to OFF. The indication "POWEROF" (power off) appears on the display, and the MRS-4 shuts down. NOTE Always follow the above procedure, and do not remove the SmartMedia card without first turning off the power. Otherwise data may be destroyed. Four IEC R6 (size AA) batteries Loop the cable of the AC adapter around the hook as shown in the diagram before connecting it to the [DC 9V] jack. This will prevent the plug from being pulled out if the cable is accidentally pulled. 3. Close the battery compartment cover. NOTE If the indication "[ ]" flashes while the unit is powered from batteries, the batteries are exhausted. Replace the batteries as soon as possible. 8 ZOOM MRS-4 ZOOM MRS-4 9 Basic Operation This section describes basic operation steps of the MRS-4, starting with preparations for recording and continuing through the final mixdown process. When you start to use the MRS-4 for recording, you must choose whether to create a new song or open an existing song for modification. 1. 2. Connect the monitor system to the MASTER [L]/[R] jacks. To use headphones for monitoring, connect them to the [PHONES] jack. Make sure that a SmartMedia card is inserted in the SmartMedia card slot. Then turn power on in the order MRS-4 monitor system. When the MRS-4 is turned on, it automatically checks whether the inserted SmartMedia card already contains any songs. When there are no songs on the SmartMedia card A new song is automatically created, and the display shows the following information. This display condition is called the "main screen". The main screen is the starting point for all operations. Operation is divided into four major steps. Step 1: Preparations for recording Make the necessary connections and prepare to record a song. Step 2: Recording the first track Use the insert effect on the input signal if necessary and record the first track. Step 3: Overdubbing While listening to the recorded track, record the second and subsequent tracks (overdubbing). Step 4: Mixdown Adjust the level, panning, and EQ for each recorded track, and apply the send/return effect to create a stereo mix. Apply the mixdown effect to the signal, and then send the result to the master recorder. Basic Operation Basic Operation Current position within the song 000000 When there are songs on the SmartMedia card The following two indications appear alternately on the display. Step 1 1-1 Preparations for recording NEWSONG YES NO Creating a new song When you press the [ENTER/YES] key in this condition, a new song is created, and the main screen appears. The recording will be automatically set to HiFi. HINT · If you press the [EXIT/NO] key at the above screen, or if no key is operated for 5 seconds, the most recent song is automatically read into the unit. (For information on how to create a new song after a song has been read in, see page 47.) · If required, change the recording grade setting ( p. 49). In the MRS-4, all data required to play a piece you have created is collectively referred to as a "song". A song contains the following information. All recording data from the recorder section All settings of the mixer section All settings of the effect section Other settings such as for metronome and tuner functions Up to 15 songs can be stored on one SmartMedia card, provided that there is enough capacity. By reading a song stored on a card back into the MRS-4, all previous settings are recreated (except for fader setting positions). 10 ZOOM MRS-4 ZOOM MRS-4 11 Step 2 Recording the first track 2-2 Using the insert effect This section describes how to record an electric guitar connected to the [INPUT 1] jack on track 1 to create the first track of a recording. The insert effect processes the signal from input 1/2 before it is sent to the tracks for recording. In this example, you apply the insert effect on the guitar signal supplied to the INPUT 1 jack. If you do not wish to use the insert effect, proceed to section 2-3 on page 15. 2-1 Adjusting input sensitivity 1. Connect the instrument to the input of the MRS-4 and adjust input sensitivity. Press the [MIXDOWN] key and the [SEND/RETURN] key simultaneously. The [MIXDOWN] key and [SEND/RETURN] key serve to select the effect to be used. Pressing both keys simultaneously causes the keys to flash in red. This indicates that the insert effect has been activated. 1. Basic Operation Connect the instrument to the [INPUT 1] jack on the MRS-4 ( p. 8). Basic Operation Press the [ON/OFF] key 1 so that the key lights up. The [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 serve to activate their respective inputs. When the key is lit, the input is active. HINT To record from an instrument with stereo output such as a synthesizer, connect the L/R output of the device to the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks and set both [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 to ON. 2. NOTE While the [MIXDOWN] key and [SEND/RETURN] key are both flashing simultaneously, the mixdown effect and send/return effect cannot be used. The display shows the currently selected algorithm (effect type). NOTE The MRS-4 can accept up to two simultaneous input signals. LIMIT 0 The following algorithms are available for the insert effect. Use the [PARAMETER/VALUE] keys to select the algorithm and the setting value. 3. While playing the instrument, use the [INPUT LEVEL] control 1 to adjust the input sensitivity. The signal input level appears on the level meter (IN) in the left part of the display. Adjust the control so that the 0 dB indicator does not light when you play the instrument at the loudest level. 2. Insert effect algorithms Algorithm 1 LIMIT 0 LIMIT 9 ( LIMIT 0 ­ LIMIT 9 ) This effect suppresses signal peaks to keep the input signal below a certain level. During stereo recording, the effect monitors both inputs. Higher setting values produce stronger limiter action. 0 Algorithm 2 COMP COMP 0 9 ( COMP 0 ­ COMP 9 ) This effect compresses the signal when the input signal exceeds a certain level. During stereo recording, the effect monitors both inputs. Higher setting values produce stronger compressor action. Algorithm 3 CAB CAB INPUT 1 level INPUT 2 level CAB CO BC ST ( CAB CO, CAB BC, CAB ST ) This is a cabinet simulator that duplicates the sound of a guitar amplifier. It is useful when a distortion effect is connected between the guitar and the input of the MRS-4. The abbreviation on the right indicates the amp type. CO Combo amp BC Bright combo amp ST Stack amp 12 ZOOM MRS-4 ZOOM MRS-4 13 Insert effect algorithms (continued) Algorithm 4 MICEF10 MICEF19 2-3 Selecting and recording to a track ( MICEF 10 ­ MICEF 19 ) This is a mic input limiter. Unlike the LIMIT 0 - LIMIT 9 effect, the effect operates independently for input 1 and 2. Higher setting values produce stronger limiter action. Record the guitar sound with insert effect on track 1, as follows. 1. Algorithm 5 MICEF20 MICEF29 ( MICEF 20 ­ MICEF 29 ) This is a mic input limiter optimized for vocals. The effect operates independently for input 1 and 2. Higher setting values produce stronger limiter action. Press the status key 1 repeatedly, until the key is lit in red. The status keys 1 ­ 4 serve for selecting the recording track, and for controlling the mute on/off condition for the track. With each push of the status key, the setting changes as follows. Lit in green Out Lit in red Status key Basic Operation Basic Operation Algorithm 6 MICEF30 MICEF39 ( MICEF 30 ­ MICEF 39 ) This is a mic input limiter optimized for acoustic guitar. The effect operates independently for input 1 and 2. Higher setting values produce stronger limiter action. Muting off Muting on Selected as recording track When the status key 1 changes from green to red, track 1 is in the recording standby condition. The input signal routing in this condition is as follows. If no recording track is selected MASTER The up/down [PARAMETER/VALUE] keys change the right-hand setting value. When the highest or lowest setting is reached, the unit switches to the next algorithm. If a recording track (track 1) is selected 1 MASTER LIMIT 8 LIMIT 9 COMP 0 Track 1 Track 2 Track 1 Track 2 HINT Pressing the left/right [PARAMETER/VALUE] keys changes directly to the next algorithm. Up to two tracks (tracks 1/2 or tracks 3/4) can be selected for recording simultaneously. LIMIT 5 2. COMP 0 While playing your instrument, operate fader 1 of the MRS-4 or the volume control of the monitor system to adjust the monitoring level. The setting of fader 1 has no effect on the recording level. To use the metronome function, press the [METRONOME] key so that the key lights up. When the [METRONOME] key is lit, the internal metronome operates. HINT In the default condition of the song, the metronome is set to a 4/4 beat, tempo of 120 BPM, and a precount of 4 beats. These settings can be changed if desired. For details, see page 50. 3. 3. Press the [EXIT/NO] key. The main screen returns. HINT Pressing the [MIXDOWN] and [SEND/RETURN] keys together turns the insert effect off. Pressing both keys once more together turns the insert effect on again, with the most recent setting in use. 4. To start recording, use the ZERO [U] key to return to the beginning of the song, and then press the PLAY [R] key while holding down the REC [O] key. The precount clicks are heard, and then recording on track 1 starts. The REC [O] key and PLAY [R] key are lit. Play your guitar while using the metronome sounds as a guide. 14 ZOOM MRS-4 ZOOM MRS-4 15 Click Click Click Click Ding Tick Tick Tick Ding Tick Tick Tick Step 3 Overdubbing Precount Record This section describes how to record another instrument on track 2 while listening to the guitar recorded in step 2 (track 1). 5. When your guitar play is finished, press the STOP [P] key. The REC [O] key and PLAY [R] key go out, and the recorder section stops. The display briefly shows "WAIT", and then the main screen reappears. NOTE The length of the "WAIT" interval differs, depending on recording conditions. 3-1 Adjusting input sensitivity and setting the insert effect 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Connect the instrument or mic to the [INPUT 1] jack. Press the [ON/OFF] key 1 so that the key lights up. Basic Operation While playing the instrument, use the [INPUT LEVEL] control 1 to adjust the input sensitivity. Press the [MIXDOWN] key and the [SEND/RETURN] key simultaneously, so that the keys are flashing in red. Select the algorithm and set the value as was done in step 2. Press the [EXIT/NO] key to return to the main screen. 6. To listen to the recording, use the ZERO [U] key to return to the beginning of the song, and then press the PLAY [R] key. The recorded track is played back. HINT · To turn the metronome off while checking the recording, press the [METRONOME] key so that the key is no longer lit. · While the recorder is stopped, you can use the REW [T] key and FF [Y] key to move the current position in 0.1 second units. If you then press the PLAY [R] key, playback starts from that position. · The basic functions of the transport keys are explained below. Basic Operation Basic functions of transport keys REW [T] key Moves backwards from the current position in 0.1 second steps. Keeping the key depressed moves back quickly. Pressing the FF [Y] key while holding down the REW [T] key moves backwards in 1 second steps. 3-2 FF [Y] key Moves forward from the current position in 0.1 second steps. Keeping the key depressed moves forward quickly. Pressing the REW [T] key while holding down the FF [Y] key moves forward in 1 second steps. Selecting a track and recording on it Record the sound of the second instrument on track 2. ZERO [U] key Moves to the start of the song (counter zero position). 1. Press the status key 2 repeatedly, until the key is lit in red. Make sure that status key 1 is lit in green. This places track 2 into the recording standby condition. Operate fader 2 to adjust the monitor level. If necessary, perform playback and adjust faders 1 and 2 for optimum balance between track playback sound and input signal. To use the metronome function, press the [METRONOME] key so that the key lights up. To start recording, use the ZERO [U] key to return to the beginning of the song, and then press the PLAY [R] key while holding down the REC [O] key. The precount clicks are heard, and then recording starts. The REC [O] key and PLAY [R] key are lit. Play your guitar while listening to the playback sound of track 1 and the metronome. When recording is finished, press the STOP [P] key. The display briefly shows "WAIT", and then the main screen reappears. 2. REC [O] key When this key is held down while pressing the PLAY [R] key, the recorder starts to record. Pressing this key during playback causes punch-in, and pressing the key during recording causes punch-out. 3. 4. STOP [P] key Stops the song. PLAY [R] key Starts playback from the current position. 7. 8. To stop playback, press the STOP [P] key. To redo the recording, repeat steps 4 ­ 5. Press the status key 1 so that the key is lit in green. The recording condition of track 1 is turned off. 5. 16 ZOOM MRS-4 ZOOM MRS-4 17 NOTE The length of the "WAIT" interval depends on setting conditions. HINT To listen to the final mix on the monitor system during mixdown, set the master recorder to monitor the input source. (For details, refer to the documentation of the master recorder.) 6. To listen to the recording, use the ZERO [U] key to return to the beginning of the song, and then press the PLAY [R] key. The recorded tracks 1 and 2 are played back. If necessary, adjust faders 1 and 2 for optimum balance. To stop playback, press the STOP [P] key. Press the status key 2 so that the key is lit in green. You can record more tracks in the same way. 2. 3. Make sure that all status keys are lit in green. Set the [ON/OFF] keys 1/2 and the [METRONOME] key to OFF. HINT It is also possible to add the input signal from inputs 1/2 to the mix. In this case, set the desired [ON/OFF] key to ON ( P. 38). 7. 8. Basic Operation Basic Operation 4-2 Adjusting volume/pan/EQ Step 4 Mixdown 1. Set the [MASTER] fader to 0 dB. While the main screen is shown, press the [TRACK PARAMETER] key. The track parameter menu appears. With this menu, you can change the settings for individual tracks. Track parameter Setting When recording of tracks 1 ­ 4 is completed, you can adjust the level, EQ, and panning of each track to create the final stereo mix. This process is called mixdown. When performing mixdown on the MRS-4, you can either record the completed song on an external master recorder, or on unused V-takes in the MRS-4. The example in this section explains how to record on an external master recorder. 2. 4-1 Preparations for mixdown FADE100 Connect the master recorder and make other preparations as follows. 3. 1. Connect a master recorder (MD or DAT or similar) to the MASTER [L]/[R] jacks. The connection principle for an external master recorder is shown below. Use the status keys 1 ­ 4 to select the track. While the track parameter menu is shown, the status keys 1 ­ 4 serve for selecting a track. The status key for the currently selected track is lit in orange. HIEQ ON Selectable track parameters and settings are listed in the table below. Monitor system LINE OUT Track parameters and settings Master recorder LINE IN MASTER[L]/[R] HI EQ ON/OFF HI EQ GAIN HI EQ FREQUENCY HIEQ HIG HIF ON/OFF -12 ­ 12 Switches high EQ on or off Adjusts high EQ boost/cut from -12 (dB) to +12 (dB). This parameter is only shown when HI EQ is set to ON. Selects the frequency for high EQ boost/cut. This parameter is only shown when HI EQ is set to ON. 500 ­ 8000 Hz 18 ZOOM MRS-4 ZOOM MRS-4 19 Track parameters and settings (continued) LO EQ ON/OFF LO EQ GAIN LO EQ FREQUENCY SEND ON/OFF SEND LEVEL Basic Operation LOEQ LOG LOF SEND SLVL ON/OFF -12 ­ 12 Switches low EQ on or off Adjusts low EQ boost/cut from -12 (dB) to +12 (dB). This parameter is only shown when LO EQ is set to ON. Selects the frequency for low EQ boost/cut. This parameter is only shown when LO EQ is set to ON. Determines whether the signal from the respective channel (track) is sent to the send/return effect. Adjusts the level of the signal sent to the send/return effect. This parameter is only shown when SEND is set to ON. Adjusts panning (left/right position) of the signal from the respective track. When STL (stereo link) is set to ON, this adjusts the left/right volume balance of the stereo tracks. Shows the current fader position numerically (display only). Controls the stereo link function for using tracks 1/2 and 3/4 in a stereo configuration. (For details, see page 39.) Selects the V-take to be used for the respective track. * x is the track number and y is the V-take number. (For details, see page 28.) 4-3