Page 1 Owner’s Manual Digital Multitracker INPUT A PHONES ST OUT INPUT B TRACK EDIT GUITAR GUITAR LINE LINE UNBAL TRIM UNBAL TRIM BOUNCE CH ON/OFF CH ON/OFF PEAK PEAK REC EFF TRACK STATUS GREEN PLAY TRACK STATUS / TRACK SEL FOOT SW MIX PARAMETER SCENE SCENE SEQ.
Page 2: Safety Instructions/Precautions
Safety Instructions/Precautions CAUTION RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK DO NOT OPEN CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER - SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL. "WARNING" "TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE."...
Page 3: Precautions
Specifications section of this owner’s manual. Do not use an AC outlet of any other voltage. Do not connect the VF80EX to the same AC outlet to which • devices that could generate noise (such as a large motor...
Page 4 Please read page 68. I want to create multiple programs. Please read page 61. I want to control the VF80EX via MIDI. Please read pages 91, 92, and 94. I want to make my original CD. Please read page 125.
Page 5 Please read page 79. I want to set the MTC offset time. Please read page 139. I want to synchronize the VF80EX with an external device. Please read page 92. I want to feed the MIDI sync signal to an external MIDI device.
Page 6: Table Of Contents
Precautions upon handling the hard disk ... 3 Note on repair ... 3 About copyright ... 3 About damage ... 3 Basic Features of VF80EX • Product Features ... 9 • Before Operating ... 10 Recording method ... 10 Program ... 10 Remain Indicator ...
Page 7 Starting to record ... 91 • MIDI clock sync system ... 92 Connecting to external equipment ... 92 Setup of the VF80EX ... 93 Executing of recording ... 93 Confirming the MIDI clock sync ... 93 • MIDI sync/MIDI machine control system ... 93 Connecting to external equipment ...
Page 8 • External MIDI equipment sync system by the slave mode..95 Connecting to external equipment ... 95 Setup of external equipment ... 95 Setup of the VF80EX ... 95 Confirming chase lock ... 95 Executing of recording ... 96 • Chain play function ...97 Making the chain play list ...
Page 9: Basic Features Of Vf80Ex
Basic Features of VF80EX The VF80EX Digital Multitracker incorporates a digital mixer with an 8-track (plus 16-additional track) digital recorder. The digital mixer section features a high-performance DSP multi-effect processor employing the A.S.P. (Fostex Advanced Signal Processing) technology originally developed by Fostex. The digital recorder section allows you to record and playback uncompressed linear 16-bit/44.1 kHz digital audio.
Page 10: Before Operating
Basic Features of VF80EX This section describes the basics that you should know before you start operating the VF80EX. All users, including those who are familiar with using tape-based Multitracker and those who are new to Multitracker, should read this section thoroughly to understand the functions of the VF80EX.
Page 11: Additional Track
These files (audio files and silent files) are called "events". With the VF80EX, you can create up to 512 events per track. You cannot make any further recording when 512 events are created. In the normal use, 512 events are enough.
Page 12: Trim
ABS 0 is the reference position for managing all the location and related to other time bases. Bar/Beat/Clk shows the musical position generated from the internal tempo map of the VF80EX (includ- ing time signature and tempo). The example below shows the current recorder posi- tion is at beat 1 of bar -2.
Page 13: Names And Functions
TRACK STATUS GREEN PLAY MUTE TRACK STATUS / TRACK SEL 7/8 2TRK Rear panel POWER PHANTOM S/P DIF / DATA OUTPUT Side panel Names and functions (VF80EX) FOOT SW SCENE SEQ. EFFECT ON/OFF ACCESS TRAINING PHANTOM STATUS /SEL SHUTTLE MASTER...
Page 14: Top Panel (Analog Input/Output Section)
Names and functions (VF80EX) Top panel (Analog input/output section) INPUT A GUITAR LINE TRIM UNBAL UNBAL CH ON/OFF CH ON/OFF PEAK TRACK STATUS 1. [INPUT A/UNBAL] (Unbalanced) connector • Connects to the unbalanced output of an external sound source. • Reference input level: -50 dBV to +2 dBV •...
Page 15: Top Panel (Mixer Section)
15. [MIX PARAMETER-PAN] key • When viewing or editing the pan pot setting, press this key. • Select the track to be viewed or edited by pressing the corresponding [TRACK STATUS/TRACK SEL] key. Names and functions (VF80EX) ACCESS PHANTOM SHUTTLE CURSOR...
Page 16: Top Panel (Recorder/Display Section)
Names and functions (VF80EX) 16. [MIX PARAMETER-EQ] key • When viewing or editing the EQ setting, press this key. • Select the track to be viewed or edited by pressing the corresponding [TRACK STATUS/TRACK SEL] key. 17. [MIX PARAMETER-SCENE / FADER] key •...
Page 17 • Lights up while the internal hard disk drive is writing or reading data. <Caution> Do not turn off the VF80EX power while this indicator lights. Data recorded in the disk may be erased. 30. [PHANTOM] indicator • Lights up when the phantom power is supplied.
Page 18 Names and functions (VF80EX) 42. [WAVE FORM SCRUB / CD PLAY] key • Pressing this key enters the scrub mode. In the scrub mode, you can scrub audio forward or backward digitally. • Pressing this key while holding down the [SHIFT] key switches the playback mode between HDD playback and audio CD playback.
Page 19: Rear Panel
(S/P DIF) digital input of an external digital device. If the external device only provides the optical digital input, use the Fostex COP-1 coaxial/optical converter. • Connector: RCA pin jack 56. CD-R/RW drive • After turning the power on, pressing the eject key in the front of the drive opens the tray.
Page 20: About The Hard Disk Storage Device
About the hard disk storage device The VF80EX is complete with a 3.5-inch E-IDE hard disk (storage device) which is formatted in the Master 8 mode. Therefore, there is no need to newly assemble a hard disk or to format the hard disk.
Page 21: Replacing A Hard Disk
<Precautions Upon Replacement> • Always turn OFF the power of the VF80EX and unplug the power plug from the electric outlet when replacing the hard disk.
Page 22 About the hard disk storage device (VF80EX) Unscrew the four screws from the bottom of the main unit that are fixing the panel. Turn over the panel that the hard disk is fixed according to the instructions shown in the figure below.
Page 23: Formatting The New Hard Disk
Formatting the Hard disk Carefully follow the instructions below to newly format the hard disk properly. Turn ON the VF80EX after plugging the power cable in the electric outlet. The VF80EX will startup. “Unformat!” will appear on the LCD. The menu will automatically go to the SETUP mode.
Page 24: Basic Recording And Playback
“Preliminary knowledge” and “LCD”. About a demonstration song! Your VF80EX may have a demonstration song on program 1 (P01) when shipped (note that some VF80EX units may not have a demonstration song, depending on the production). Please check whether a demonstration song is recorded or not on your unit according the following manner.
Page 25: Connections Of External Equipment
You can connect various sound sources and external devices to the input and output connectors of the VF80EX as shown in the example below. When making connection, make sure that the [MASTER] fader is set to the lowest (“ ”) position and the [PHONES] knob to the left most (“MIN”) position. Otherwise, your speakers or headphones may damage by the audio noise generated when connecting cables.
Page 26: Lcd
This section describes major contents on the LCD display and their operations. Display when turning on the power When turning on the power of the VF80EX on which a formatted hard disk is installed, the unit starts up and “Initial..” and “version number” appears on the LCD display, followed by “Current Dr”, “IDE”, “hard disk name...
Page 27: Preliminary Knowledge
• Be sure to keep the following notes. * When connecting a condenser microphone to the balanced input connector of the VF80EX, check whether or not the microphone needs the phantom power (+48 V). * Switch the [PHANTOM] switch to ON after connecting a microphone.
Page 28: Basic Recording (Recording Onto A Single Track)
Basic recording (recording onto a single track) At first, let’s record a single sound source onto a single track to know the basic recording procedure of the VF80EX There are 8 recording tracks (Tracks 1 through 8) and you can record onto any desired track(s).
Page 29: Recording
Press the [PLAY] key while holding down the [RECORD] key to start recording. The [TRACK STATUS/TRACK SEL] key of Track 1 and the [RECORD] key light on, showing the VF80EX is now re- cording. The VF80EX uses the direct recording method. In this...
Page 30: Basic Recording (Recording Onto Two Tracks)
Basic Recording/Playback (VF80EX) Basic recording (recording onto two tracks) After recording onto track 1 as described in the previous section, let’s make recording of a stereo sound source onto tracks 3 and 4. Stereo source INPUT A GUITAR LINE UNBAL...
Page 31: Recording
The VF80EX also provides the “track exchange” function which allows you to keep recordable tracks. The VF80EX has 16 additional tracks for each pro- gram, in addition to 8 recordable (and playable) real tracks (1 through 8). The “track exchange” func- tion allows you to exchange a real track and an additional track, making the real track empty.
Page 32: Mark Function
Mark function The VF80EX has the Mark function which allows you to set marks at the desired positions in a song. You can locate to a mark position immediately, as well as use mark positions for the punch in and out points, beginning and end points for repeat and editing points for track editing such as copy, move, erase, etc.
Page 33: Abs Locate Functions
Only the armed track(s) switch from playback to record- ing. At the punch out point, press the [PLAY] key . The armed track(s) switch from recording to playback. Basic Recording/Playback (VF80EX) Punch in/out using the foot switch Connect the Model 8051 foot switch to the [FOOT SW] jack.
Page 34: Auto Punch In/Out Function
Basic Recording/Playback (VF80EX) Auto punch in/out function You must set the punch in and out points before per- forming auto punch in/out recording. You can set the points either during playback and while stopped. In the following description, we assume that the “ABS”...
Page 35 The selected mark position is taken in the punch out point. After setting both points, press the [EXIT/NO] key. Basic Recording/Playback (VF80EX) • Performing auto punch in/out recording After storing the punch in and out points, you can perform the auto punch in/out recording.
Page 36: Mixing
Basic Recording/Playback (VF80EX) Mixing After recording all tracks (1 through 8), you can tailor the sound of each track. The following describes about settings for level, pan, EQ and effects. Adjusting levels Adjust the playback level of each track using the cor- responding fader (1 through 6 and 7/8).
Page 37: Setting Effects
To set the effect send levels for other tracks, carry out step 2 and 3 above repeatedly. Effect type setting The VF80EX provides 38 effect types (L01 through L38) used for the loop effect and 6 effect types (L39 through L44) used for the insert effect.
Page 38: Mixdown
After tailoring sound of all the tracks, let’s make a master tape (disc) using your master recorder (cassette, DAT, MD, etc.). As the VF80EX can feed the stereo outputs (L and R) via the S/PDIF (coaxial) digital output jack, you can make the master tape (disc) in digital domain if your recorder provides a digital input jack.
Page 39: Mixer Functions
Initial condition when turning on the power When turning on the power, the VF80EX starts up while showing the unit information on the LCD display and then gets ready when the screen below appears. This screen is called "Normal Screen", in which the program number and current recorder position are shown.
Page 40: Mix Parameter Section
The Mix parameter section provides five keys that are used for mixer function settings. By pressing one of these keys alone or while holding down the [SHIFT] key, you can execute the following. <Note>: The VF80EX mixer channels always receive corresponding track signals. They do not receive input signals. • Pan setting •...
Page 41: Editing Eq
The VF80EX is equipped with 2-band (HI and LO) EQ for Tracks 1 through 6. 36 preset entries are available in the EQ library. <Note>: You can apply EQ only to Tracks 1 through 6. You cannot apply EQ to Tracks 7/8.
Page 42: Preset Entries In The Eq Library
Mixer Functions (VF80EX) Preset entries in the EQ library L00: 2-SHLV Gain Flat setting Freq. The first time you bring up the EQ screen, this entry is selected. L01: LightKick Gain Creates a light and jaunty kick Freq. sound L02: TightKick Gain Creates a tight and hard kick sound.
Page 43 This filter passes frequencies below a cut-off frequency while cuts frequencies above the frequency. “HPF” (High pass filter) +3.0 +4.0 This filter passes frequencies below a cut-off frequency 260Hz 125Hz while cuts frequencies above the frequency. Mixer Functions (VF80EX) Gain +2.0 +3.0 Freq. 6.2kHz 2kHz +4.0 Gain -5.0...
Page 44: Setting Effects
Mixer Functions (VF80EX) The VF80EX provides 38 digital effect types used for the loop effect and 6 types used for the insert effect. As you can select any type and adjust parameter settings for each type, comprehensive effect processing is possible.
Page 45: How To Make The Loop Effect Setting
Delay. How to make the loop effect setting There are two methods for using the internal effect processor of the VF80EX; "loop effect" and "insert effect". The loop effect allows you to apply a desired effect to track signals during track bounce (ping-pong) operation to the other tracks or mixdown operation to an external master recorder.
Page 46: Setting Effect Send Levels
Mixer Functions (VF80EX) <Hint> When editing the loop effect setting, pressing the [EFFECT] key after turning on the power cycles the screen between "Effect send level setting screen", "Effect type/parameter setting screen" and "Effect send pre/post setting screen", as shown right.
Page 47: Selecting An Effect Type
] key to select a parameter to be edited, and then use the [JOG] dial to select a value. After completing the settings, press the [EXIT/NO] key. The VF80EX exits the edit mode and the LCD display returns to the Normal screen. Mixer Functions (VF80EX)
Page 48: Turning The Effect Processor On Or Off
Mixer Functions (VF80EX) Turning the effect processor on or off You can select the on or off of the effect processor. • To turn on the effect processor Press the [EFFECT/ON/OFF] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key to illuminate the [EFFECT/ON/OFF] key.
Page 49: About The Effect Types
Distortion sound for drums. (See "Advanced Operations" on page 84.) Distortion sound for a voice. (See "Advanced Operations" on page 84.) You can simulates popular guitar amplifier sounds. (See "Advanced Operations" on page 84.) You can simulates famous microphone sounds. (See "Advanced Operations" on page 84.) Mixer Functions (VF80EX)
Page 50: Effect Parameter Details
Mixer Functions (VF80EX) Effect parameter details The parameters that can be adjusted will depend on the parameter type. The following describes parameters for effect types L01 through L38 used for the loop effect. See "Advanced Operations" on page 84 for details about parameters for effect types L39 through L44 used for the insert effect.
Page 51 * +50 is a semitone sharp. -50 is a semitone flat. 4. Delay Time Adjust the delay time until the pitch-shifted sound is heard. Range: 0--500 ms 5. Feedback Adjust the number of delay repeats. Range: 0--99 Mixer Functions (VF80EX)
Page 52: Scene Memory
Mixer Functions (VF80EX) The VF80EX provides 100 Scene memories (S00 to S99) for each program. You can store a set of desired param- eter settings to each memory. Items to be stored include all parameters set by mix parameter editing functions, as well as all track fader levels.
Page 53: Deleting A Scene
Press the [EXIT/NO] key. The display returns to the Normal screen. Mixer Functions (VF80EX) After recalling a scene, the recalled fader level usu- ally does not match the current physical fader posi- tion, you can move the physical faders to match the current fader positions of the scene.
Page 54: Scene Sequence
In the following description, we assume that the timebase is set to Bar/Beat/Clk. While the VF80EX is stopped, press the [SCENE SEQ/ MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The screen shows the mark map, in which the current marks are listed.
Page 55: Deleting A Mark From The Mark Map
You can delete an unnecessary mark from the mark map. <Note> You cannot delete mark 00 . While the VF80EX is stopped, press the [SCENE SEQ/ MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The screen shows the mark map. Highlight the desired mark using the [JOG] dial.
Page 56: Recorder Functions
• As long as holding down the [SHIFT] key, shuttle cueing continues even if you release the [JOG/SHUTTLE] dial. The VF80EX is "cueing" in the forward direction at 64x the normal speed. The VF80EX is "cueing" in the backward direction at 64x the normal speed.
Page 57: Digital Scrubbing
Performing digital scrubbing While stopped, press the [WAVE FORM SCRUB] key. The VF80EX enters the scrub mode, and the display shows the screen below. Press the [TRACK STATUS/TRACK SEL] key for the track you are going to scrub.
Page 58: Vari Pitch
Recorder Functions (VF80EX) You can alter the playback or recording speed of the recorder within +/- 6.0 % range in 0.1 % increments/dec- rements by using the vari pitch function. With the vari pitch function, the pitch changes according to the speed.
Page 59: Loop Function
Using the loop function, you can repeat the desired part between the Start and End points. By using the loop function together with the punch in/out or training mode, you can concentrate on playing without the need for operating the VF80EX. <Loop Function>...
Page 60: Setting The Start And End Points By Marks
Recorder Functions (VF80EX) To edit the Start point, press the [ENTER/YES] key while "Start Point" value is highlighted. The "seconds" value flashes, showing that it can be ed- ited. The "seconds" value flashes. Use the [CURSOR / ] keys to move the flashing value, and use the [JOG] dial to edit the value.
Page 61: Program
The VF80EX can have up to 99 programs (P01 through P99) and usually each program manages one song. You can make recording against each program or playback materials recorded on each program. This section describe program-related operations. Creating a new program When formatting a hard disk, a program (P01) is au- tomatically created.
Page 62: Selecting A Program
Recorder Functions (VF80EX) Selecting a program When more than one program exists on the disk, you have to select the desired program before starting operations for recording, playback or editing. Select the desired program by following the procedure below while the recorder is stopped and the display shows the Normal screen.
Page 63: Track Editing
[JOG] dial (or [CURSOR keys) to select a character for the flashing point. Because the VF80EX uses a 3.5-inch E-IDE hard disk as the recording media, you can make non-linear and non- destructive audio editing by track effectively.
Page 64: Performing Copy (Or Move) & Paste
Recorder Functions (VF80EX) Performing Copy (or Move) & Paste Set the Start and End points for the copy (or move) operation and To point for the paste operation. Using the digital scrub function, set the Start, End and To points. See "Storing the digital scrub point" for details about how to set the points.
Page 65: Undo/Redo Of Copy (Or Move) & Paste
3. Letting the recorder run in playback (or recording) mode and pass through the auto punch-in point while the auto punch mode is active 4. Turning off the power of the VF80EX 5. Performing any of the program operations (select, rename or delete).
Page 66: Erasing Track Data
Recorder Functions (VF80EX) Erasing track data You can erase a desired part of track data. You can select a track or tracks (of which you are going to erase data) from among each individual track, each pair of tracks, 1-6 and 1-8.
Page 67: Undo/Redo Of Erase
Letting the recorder run in playback (or recording) mode and pass through the auto punch-in point while the auto punch mode is active Turning off the power of the VF80EX Performing any of the program operations (select, rename or delete).
Page 68: Track Exchange
Recorder Functions (VF80EX) Track Exchange The track exchange function allows you to exchange tracks (regardless of whether they are real or addi- tional tracks) on the program in single track unit, 2- track unit or 8-track unit. By using this function, you can exchange tracks not only among real tracks but also between real and additional tracks, allowing to use tracks effectively.
Page 69: Editing Marks
After editing time (or bar/beat/clock), press the [ENTER/ YES] key. The edited value is stored to the mark and the display returns to the Mark map screen. Press the [EXIT/NO] key. The display returns to the Normal screen. Recorder Functions (VF80EX) / ] keys to highlight...
Page 70: Enter A Mark Title
Recorder Functions (VF80EX) Enter a mark title You can enter or edit a title for each mark. While the recorder is stopped, press the [SCENE SEQ./ MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The Mark map screen appears. Use the [JOG] dial or [CURSOR light the desired mark, and then press the [TIME BASE SEL/F2] key.
Page 71: Deleting A Mark
Normal screen. <Hint> If you press the [SETUP/F1] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key after editing a mark position (see "Editing a Flashing mark position"), you can locate to the new mark position. Recorder Functions (VF80EX) ] keys to high-...
Page 72: Advanced Operations
This chapter describes advanced or useful functions of the VF80EX. Metronome function The VF80EX provides the internal tempo map, in which you can set the time signature (e.g. 4/4, 3/4) and tempo (between 30 and 250). It also can output the metronome sound (click) according to the tempo map, allowing you to record materials at the specific tempo without the need of an external metronome or rhythm machine.
Page 73: Track Bounce (Ping-Pong Recording)
When the number of empty tracks is short in the recording process, you can solve the problem by transferring audio on the multiple already-recorded tracks to a different track or tracks. This operation is called "Track bounce" or "Ping-pong recording". With the VF80EX, you can do this operation sim- ply by using the [BOUNCE] key.
Page 74: Training Mode
Training mode The VF80EX provides the training mode which allows you to practice your instrument while playing back only Tracks 7/8. In the training mode, you can slow down the playback speed or altering the pitch, making it easy to play along with your favorite musicians or transcribing ad-lib phrases.
Page 75: Slowing Down The Playback Speed
Playing along with the playback sound Set the [MASTER] fader to the "0" position. Press the [PLAY] key to starts playback of the VF80EX and raise the Track 7/8 fader gradually. You can see the level is going up via the stereo output level meters (L and R) on the screen.
Page 76: Mastering Mode
Advanced Operations (VF80EX) Mastering mode You can use Tracks 7/8 as the mastering tracks. After performing the track bouncing from Tracks 1 through 6 to Tracks 7/8, you can record the audio signals on Tracks 7/8 to an external (analog or digital) master recorder while applying the "mastering effects" including EQ, reverb and compressor (see the illustration below).
Page 77: Setting The Mastering Parameters
You have to adjust the recording level now. When the recording signal is digitally transferred from the VF80EX to the recorder, because a digital recorder usually does not provide the function for controlling the digital input level, you must adjust the recording level by controlling the stereo output level of the VF80EX using the [MASTER] fader.
Page 78 Advanced Operations (VF80EX) L2: Light Mix Gain Freq. (fixed) Q (fixed) EQ Lo 400Hz 1kHz EQ Mid EQ Hi +4.0 8kHz Ambience 0 (Rev Level) Rev Time=1.0s / Pre Dly=0ms : fixed Comp THSHD 3 : 1 Comp Ratio Comp Gain...
Page 79: Please Read
Internal Mastering Mode The internal mastering mode is an expansion of the mastering mode described earlier. It allows you to record a mixed-down material on tracks 7 and 8 to the current drive on the VF80EX while applying a mastering effect.
Page 80: Rehearsing Internal Mastering
[ENTER/YES] key. Set the [MASTER] fader to the "0" position. Press the [MASTERING] key. The VF80EX enters the mastering mode and the dis- play shows the mastering screen in which you can adjust the mastering effects.
Page 81: Performing Internal Mastering
Press the [REWIND] key while holding down the [STOP] key to locate to the beginning of the pro- gram. The VF80EX locates to the beginning of the program immediately and "00m 00s" is shown at the top right of the screen. Keep showing the same mastering screen after stopping the VF80EX and locating to the begin- ning of the program.
Page 82: About Start And End Points
In the internal mastering mode, unlike the normal recording, you do not have to select recording tracks. When recording a take in the internal mastering mode, the VF80EX automatically arms Tracks 1 and 2. Therefore, the [TRACK STATUS/TRACK SEL] keys for tracks 1 and 2 never light up in red in the internal mastering mode.
Page 83: Checking The "Start Point" And "End Point
CD. Advanced Operations (VF80EX) How to add a silent part to a mastered song Even if you have made mastering without recording a silent part, do not worry.
Page 84: Using The Insert Effect
Advanced Operations (VF80EX) Using the insert effect Unlike the loop effect described earlier in "Mixer Functions", the insert effect is applied when rere- cording any recorded track among tracks 1 through 6. This rerecording mode in which the insert effect is applied is called "REC EFFECT" mode.
Page 85: Rehearsal
Before executing recording, you can check the guitar sound with the distortion effect while rehearsing the effect parameter settings until you satisfy with the sound. We assume that the guitar is connected to the [INPUT A] connector and the VF80EX locates to the beginning of the program (ABS 0).
Page 86: Recording The Guitar
Advanced Operations (VF80EX) <How to edit parameters> The "L39: Gtr Dist" effect type has 11 parameters as shown below. (Note that the screen example below shows all parameters for the explanation. Actually, you can see 5 parameters at a time while the other parameters are hidden.)
Page 87: Recording With Effect
PEAK indicator does not light frequently. 5. After setting the level, locate to the beginning of the program. Advanced Operations (VF80EX) Press the [PLAY] key while holding down the [RECORD] key to start recording. During recording in the “REC EFFECT mode”, the [BOUNCE/REC EFF] key is flashing in red.
Page 88: Parameters For Distortion Effects (Distortion)
Advanced Operations (VF80EX) • Parameters for distortion effects (Parameter type: DISTORTION) Effect types No.39 through 42 (shown in "Effect type list" on page 49) are distortion types. Each of these has 11 parameters as shown below. Selects a distortion type.
Page 89: Parameters For Distortion Effects (Amp Sim.)
Range: 0 to 99 (default: 40) Sets the delay level. 11. Delay Level Range: 0 to 99 (default: 0) Advanced Operations (VF80EX) Details of each amplifier types Five guitar amplifier types can be simulated. Each amplifier type has its own unique character as described below.
Page 90 Advanced Operations (VF80EX) Selects a microphone input type. Options: US Dyn 58 (dynamic type), MCon2 1. IN (condenser type) Default: US Dyn 58 Selects a microphone output type to be simu- lated. Options: TCon3k, TCon3k LC, TCon414, TCon414LC1, TCon414LC2, TDyn112, GDyn421, 2.
Page 91: Digital Recording
Digital recording You can digitally record an external digital source to the VF80EX, or stereo output signals of the VF80EX to an external digital recorder. This section describes how to make digital recording between the VF80EX and an ex- ternal digital device. Note that the VF80EX can only handle S/P DIF format digital data.
Page 92: Midi Clock Sync System
MIDI clock and song position pointer according to the setting, a hardware type MIDI sequencer can be synchronized as a MIDI clock slave. Consequently, in this system, the VF80EX will be the master and the MIDI sequencer the slave.
Page 93: Setup Of The Vf80Ex
(absolute time) and output it as MTC in any desired frame rate. It can also carry out the proper operation upon receiving an MMC from outside. In this case, because the VF80EX can setup a DEVICE ID number by the SETUP mode “MIDI Device ID Setting”...
Page 94: Connecting To External Equipment
When a correct MIDI command (MMC or FEX) is received, “MIDI” in the display will be lit for about 40msec. There is no setting in the VF80EX to receive MMC but it will operate if a correct MIDI signal is input.
Page 95: External Midi Equipment Sync System By The Slave Mode
External MIDI equipment sync system by the slave mode Up to this point, synchronization with external MIDI equipment has been explained with the VF80EX as the master and MIDI equipment as the slave but depending on the slave mode setting, the MIDI equipment can be set as the master and the VF80EX as the slave.
Page 96: Executing Of Recording
<One Point Advice> Sync signal “Vari” of the “Slave mode setting” menu: When the VF80EX is made to chase lock by MTC only, variable pitch will be constantly applied by external MTC. If a digital signal is output to an external digital...
Page 97: Chain Play Function
In this mode, the VF80EX plays back each program in the chain play list one by one. Pause Each time the VF80EX finishes playback of a program, it automatically pauses at the start point of the next program. Pressing the [PLAY] key starts playback.
Page 98: Making The Chain Play List
The following procedure examples show how to en- ter all programs on the VF80EX current drive and how to select desired five programs to the list, as- suming that 10 programs are recorded on the VF80EX current drive.
Page 99 After selecting "P05" and pressing the [ENTER/YES] key, program 5 (P05) is set to step 1 (C01) of the chain play list and the screen changes as shown below. Advanced Operations (VF80EX) Use the [JOG] dial (or the [CURSOR light "C02: END" and press the [ENTER/YES] key.
Page 100: Setting The Chain Play Mode
Advanced Operations (VF80EX) Setting the chain play mode When you have made the chain play list, set the chain play mode. The following procedure shows how to set the chain play mode after making the chain play list as described before.
Page 101: Editing The Chain Play List
As described above, by selecting a program while the chain play mode is set to any option but “Off”, you can start chain play from the desired program. Advanced Operations (VF80EX) Editing the chain play list You can replace a program in the chain play list with another program, delete a program from the list, or add a new program to the list.
Page 102 Advanced Operations (VF80EX) To delete the program from the chain play list, select “DEL”. To replace the program with another program, select a desired program. If you delete the program from the list, all the programs set to the subsequent steps automatically slide up, as shown below.
Page 103 [ENTER/YES] key. In the example shown below, program 6 (P06) is inserted to step 2. Advanced Operations (VF80EX) If you want to insert a program to another step, repeat the same procedure above. After inserting all desired programs, press the [EXIT/ NO] key.
Page 104: Audio Cd Playback Mode
You cannot play back an audio CD which is copy-protected. • Never try to play back a disc which is not an audio CD (CD-DA). This may damage the VF80EX. • In the audio CD playback mode, you can use functions such as locate, scrub, loop and effect editing, as with •...
Page 105 Audio CD eject In the audio CD playback mode and when the VF80EX is not accessing the disc, you can eject a disc in the CD-R/RW drive by pressing the [EXIT/ NO] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key (or pressing the eject key on the CD-R/RW drive).
Page 106: Save/Load Of Song Data
When loading song data from the external device to the VF80EX via the S/PDIF digital signal, data is transferred with two-track data blocks, as with the same way as saving data from the VF80EX to the external device. (See also <Notes>...
Page 107: Items That Can Be Saved Or Loaded As Song Data
Saving/loading data using the S/PDIF digital signal <Notes for digital audio recorders to be used> The VF80EX song data only can be saved to or loaded from digital recorders that can handle 16 bit, 44.1 kHz linear digital data with S/PDIF format (such as DAT recorders).
Page 108: Save/Load Using The S/P Dif Digital Signal
You can save data using the S/PDIF digital signal via the [S/P DIF DATA OUTPUT] (coaxial) jack. • Use an external digital recorder that supports 44.1 kHz sampling frequency (the same as the VF80EX), Connecting to an external digital recorder Connect the [S/P DIF DATA OUTPUT] jack to the digital input jack of the external digital recorder (DAT, etc.).
Page 109 "Wait time" starts counting down. For the first several seconds, the VF80EX transmits the pilot signal that will be a reference for locating the tape position during the load operation, and the actual data saving starts from the position at which "Wait Time"...
Page 110: Loading Data Using The S/Pdif Digital Signal
Loading data using the S/PDIF digital signal You can load data using the S/PDIF digital signal via the [S/P DIF DATA INPUT] (coaxial) jack. *Use an external recorder that supports 44.1 kHz sampling frequency (the same as the VF80EX). Connecting to an external recorder Connect the [S/P DIF DATA INPUT] jack to the digital output jack of the external digital recorder.
Page 111 "Sure?" flashes. <Note> In the above step, if the VF80EX does not lock to the digital signal from the external digital recorder, the following warning message appears on the display, showing that the VF80EX does not receive a correct S/ PDIF digital signal.
Page 112: Save/Load Using Cd-Rw/Cd-R
<About data writing and reading speeds for data save/load> The writing and reading speeds for data save and load of the VF80EX are automatically set as below. • Writing speed: according to a CD-R/RW drive used, however the maximum speed is 8 times.
Page 113: Save/Load Of Song Data Using A Cd-R/Rw Drive
You can load a material on a (commercial or created) audio CD to a program of the VF80EX. Audio data is loaded to a “new program” automatically created by the VF80EX, which is the same way as backup data loading. The VF80EX never overwrites the existing program.
Page 114: Saving Data Using A Cd-R/Rw Drive (Backup)
Do not carry out any VF80EX key operation until the access process to the CD-RW/CD-R disc is completed. After turning on the VF80EX, insert a disc to the CD- R/RW drive. Press the [SETUP] key of the VF80EX to enter the setup mode.
Page 115 When completing the save operation, “Save Com- pleted!” appears on the display (as shown below) and the VF80EX stops access to the drive, while the disc in the CD-R/RW drive is automatically ejected. When saving data to more than one disc, the first disc will be ejected when it is full (i.e.
Page 116 Save/Load of Song data (VF80EX) Flashing Increases as the process progresses. Immediately after completing erasing the disc, the display shows the same screen (for selecting a pro- gram to be saved) which appears after step 5 is performed. Hereafter, perform the same proce- dure as described above.
Page 117: Loading Backup Data From A Cd-R/Rw Drive
Do not carry out any VF80EX key operation until the access process to the CD-RW/CD-R disc is com- pleted. After turning on the VF80EX, insert the disc to the CD-R/RW drive. <Note> If you load song data which is saved to more than one disc, set DISC-1 first.
Page 118 When completing the load operation, “Load Com- pleted!” appears on the display (as shown below) and the VF80EX stops access to the drive, while the disc in the CD-R/RW drive is automatically ejected. Light up...
Page 119: Saving A Wav File
Song data can be saved to or load from a CD-R/CD-RW disc by the FDMS-3 (Fostex Disk Management System- 3) format, as well as by the WAV file format. As you can handle song data of the VF80EX with a WAV file, it is possible to directly import/export data from/to a personal computer, to playback/edit a data file with various software applications, and to import a data file edited by a computer to the VF80EX.
Page 120 Save/Load of Song data (VF80EX) <Note> If you save all data from "ABS 0" to "REC END" , make sure to set the Edit Source Export function to Off. While "Off" is blinking, press the [ENTER/YES] key. The display shows the screen for selecting a program to be saved.
Page 121 As the file save goes on, the remaining data size shown on the screen counts down. Save/Load of Song data (VF80EX) When saving data onto more than one disk, the current disk number is shown on the screen as "Disk *" (where * indicates the number).
Page 122 During the save operation over more than one backup disk, the VF80EX always calculates the available space of the disk automatically. If the VF80EX knows that the available space gets smaller than the data size of the next track, it will change the disk when the data save of the current track is completed.
Page 123: Loading A Wav File
[JOG] dial. You can also select "Eject" to remove the backup disk. <Note> The VF80EX cannot recognize any other file names but "******##.WAV" and cannot load such disks. A WAV file with an unique name (the first 6 characters) is recognized as an independent backup file and can be selected.
Page 124: Special Loading Method When Using A Computer
Save/Load of Song data (VF80EX) Press the [EXIT/NO] key (or the [STOP] key) repeatedly until exiting the setup mode. To go back to the previous step or abort the operation, you can also use the [EXIT/NO] key or the [STOP] key.
Page 125: Making An Audio Cd
Key operations of the VF80EX should be done af- ter completing access to a CD-RW/CD-R disc. After turning on the power of the VF80EX, load a non- recorded disc to the CD-R/RW drive. Press the [SETUP] key to enter the Setup mode.
Page 126 Save/Load of Song data (VF80EX) About “Copy protection” setting You can restrict the disc copy (duplication) capa- bility of an audio CD you are going to make. A disc you made can be copied to other digital device once. A disc you made can be copied to other digital device as many times as required (default).
Page 127 After specifying the program(s), press the [ENTER/ YES] key while holding down the [RECORD] key. The VF80EX starts recording to the disc, while the dis- play shows the following screen. When the recording ends, “Save Completed!” appears on the screen, while the disc is automatically ejected from the CD-R/RW drive.
Page 128 <"Mark Enable" should be set to "ON" in such a case!> When loading more than one track from an audio CD you made to the VF80EX hard disk, all the tracks are loaded onto a single program (see "Loading from an audio CD" on the next page for details), in which a mark is automatically set to the beginning of each track.
Page 129: Loading From An Audio Cd
Loading from an audio CD You can load a desired song to the VF80EX from an audio CD you created by recording on a CD-RW/CD-R disc. When a desired song is loaded, the VF80EX automatically creates a new program on the current drive, and the song are recorded on tracks 1 and 2 of the program.
Page 130 Save/Load of Song data (VF80EX) <Warning message> The warning message for copyright shown on the screen is as follows. Warning! You are responsible for use of this digital de- vice. Be sure to abide by the copyright condi- tions of the source material.
Page 131 Press the [ENTER/YES] key while “ERASE” and “Sure?” are flashing. After the key press, the display changes as follows and the VF80EX starts erasing the data. As the erasing process is going on, the number of flashing “ * ” increases.
Page 132 Because all the tracks loaded take part in the same program, you have to select a track within the program. The VF80EX automatically set a mark at the beginning of each track loaded with the type set to "Select" or "All", so pressing [LOCATE | previous or next track, as with a typical CD player on the market (see "Mark function"...
Page 133: Setup Mode
The "Setting" menu includes 15 menu items as shown in <Table-1> below. These items are set to the default value when shipping the VF80EX from the factory. By editing the setting when necessary, you can change the operational environment of the VF80EX. The "Check" menu provides two items for checking the number of events and current drive information, as shown in <Table-2>.
Page 134: To Enter The Setup Mode
A "tempo map" is created by making time signature and tempo setting. According to a tempo map, the VF80EX can manage a song by BAR/BEAT/CLK time base, as well as can use the metronome function. Also, when the VF80EX feeds MIDI clock and song position pointer to an external sequencer, the time signa- ture and tempo setting must be made.
Page 135: Correcting The Registered Time Signature
4/4 " event, as well as all tempo events are deleted simultaneously. After clearing all events, press the [EXIT/NO] key (or the [STOP] key) repeatedly until the VF80EX exits the SETUP mode. • Editing the bar offset On the "Signature Set" screen, select "-002BAR Off- set"...
Page 136: Setting A Tempo
A "tempo map" can be created by making time signature setting (described above) and tempo setting. Accord- ing to a tempo map, the VF80EX can manage a song by BAR/BEAT/CLK time base, as well as can use the metronome function. Also, when the VF80EX feeds MIDI clock and song position pointer to an external se- quencer, the time signature and tempo setting must be made.
Page 137: Correction Of The Registered Tempo
[ENTER/YES] key. The setting is now effective. After editing tempo event, press the [EXIT/NO] key (or the [STOP] key) repeatedly until the VF80EX exits the SETUP mode. Setting the Metronome function [“Click ”] Using the "Click " menu item, you can select whether or not feeding the metronome click according to the tempo map during playback or recording.
Page 138: Setting Midi Sync Output Signal
Using the "Midi Sync Out" menu item, you can select the type of a MIDI sync signal message sent to an external MIDI device from the MIDI OUT connector on the VF80EX rear panel. You can select between MIDI clock & song position pointer and MTC (MIDI timecode). Depending on the device connected to the VF80EX, select the appropriate option.
Page 139: Setting An Mtc Offset Value
("00H 00M 00S 00F"). • If you set the MTC offset mode to "BAR " and run the VF80EX in sync with a sequencer software on your personal computer via MTC, the tempo may be gradually shifted though the same tempo map is used. This is because the speed of the VF80EX and your personal computer may not be exactly the same.
Page 140: Setting The Slave Mode
The currently selected slave mode starts flashing (by default, "Off" is selected). Setting the Slave type [“Slave Type”] Using the "Slave Type" menu item, you can select the slave type when the VF80EX runs as a slave of an external master. • Default: Vari •...
Page 141: Setting The Record Protect Function
Free clock or the clock received from the digital input. It does not chase the master even if the VF80EX timecode shifts off the master timecode. After the chase-lock is achieved, the VF80EX...
Page 142: Setting Digital Input
S/P DIF DATA INPUT (COAXIAL) connector to tracks 7 and 8. By setting this item to "On", you can record an S/P DIF signal from an external digital device (such as a CD, MD or DAT player) to tracks 7 and 8 of the VF80EX. • Default: •...
Page 143: Setting The Midi Device Number
Setting the MIDI device number [“Device ID”] Using the "Device ID" menu item, you can set a device ID of the VF80EX. which is needed for controlling the VF80EX from a sequencer software application, etc. via MMC (MIDI Machine Control).
Page 144: The Drive Format Information
From the "Drive Information" menu item, you can check the format information of the current drive. If you have any trouble with your VF80EX and contact your nearest Fostex service station, this information is very important and helpful for us in giving quick service.
Page 145: Fader Recall Mode Setting
Master Trk & Mst flashing Press the [EXIT/NO] key (or the [STOP] key) repeat- edly until the VF80EX exits the SETUP mode. SETUP mode (VF80EX) When recalling a scene, the settings of track and master faders are not recalled. There- fore, the fader positions do not change from the positions before recalling the scene.
Page 146: Midi Implementation Chart
Specifications (VF80EX) (Digital Multitracker) Model VF80EX Function... Basic Default Channel Changed Default Mode Message Altered Note Number: True Voice Velocity Note ON Note OFF After Key’s Touch Channel’s Pitch Bend Control Change Program Change True # System Exclusive : Quarter Frame...
Page 147: Mmc Command List
IDENTITY REPLY: F0, 7E, <channel>, 06, 02, 51, 01, 00, 13, 05, **, **, **, **, F7 :Fostex ID 01, 00 :Device family code 13, 05 :Device family number VF80EX **, **, **, ** :Software version Specifications (VF80EX) Movement (Recorder)
Page 148: Maintenance
Specifications (VF80EX) Cleaning the exterior * For normal cleaning, use a soft dry cloth. For stubborn dirt, moisten a cloth in diluted detergent, wring it out firmly, and wipe the dirt off. Then polish with a dry cloth. Never use solvents such as alcohol, thinner or benzene, since these will damage the printing and finish of the exterior.
Page 149: Block Diagram
General Dimensions Weight Power Supply Power Consumption Accessories * Fostex Disk Management System-3 ** Fostex Data In Out-1 Specifications and appearance are subject to change without notice for product improvement. PHANTOM (+48V) PEAK INPUT A AD/C TRIM PHANTOM (+48V) BOUNCE...
Page 150: Dimensions
Specifications (VF80EX) Block Diagram (when using the insert effect) PHANTOM (+48V) PEAK REC EFF INPUT A CH ON/OFF REC 1 AD/C REC 2 REC 3 TRIM PHANTOM (+48V) REC 4 REC 5 REC 6 REC 7 INPUT B REC 8...
Page 151: Declaration Of Ec Directive
* In the electrical fast transient/burst requirements, surge, conducted disturbances by radio-frequency fields, power frequency magnetic field, radiate electromagnetic field requirements and static electricity discharging environment, this could be affected by generation of noise in some cases. FOSTEX DISTRIBUTORS LIST IN EUROPE * Including non-EU countries (as of October, 2003). <AUSTRIA>...
Page 152 FOSTEX CO. 3-2-35, Musashino, Akishima-shi, Tokyo, Japan 196-0021 FOSTEX AMERICA 15431, Blackburn Ave., Norwalk, CA 90650, U. S. A. © PRINTED IN CHINA FEB. 2004 8588 042 000 FX 396676...

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