Sound Devices 688 User Manual
  1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Sound Devices Manuals
  4. Mixer
  5. 688
  6. User manual

Sound Devices 688 User Manual

Field production mixer with integrated recorder and mixassist
Hide thumbs Also See for 688:
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

®
688
Field Production Mixer with
Integrated Recorder and MixAssist
™

User Guide

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the 688 and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Related Manuals for Sound Devices 688

Summary of Contents for Sound Devices 688

  • Page 1: User Guide

    ® Field Production Mixer with Integrated Recorder and MixAssist ™ User Guide...

  • Page 2: Manual Conventions

    U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks herein are the property of their respective owners. FCC Notice 688 User Guide • Rev 2-A • August 12, 2015 This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. This document is distributed by Sound Devices, LLC...
  • Page 3 Revision History This table provides the revision history of this guide. Rev# Date Firmware Description Version 1-A; 1-B March 2015 v1.00 Preliminary Draft; Initial Official Publication June 2015 v2.00 Added Firmware updates for v2.00, including new SL-6 chapter August 2015 v2.00 Added new section “Automatic Receiver Output Setup”...
  • Page 4 688 User Guide...

  • Page 5: Table Of Contents

    Powering the 688 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  • Page 6 Editing Metadata on the 688 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  • Page 7 Trim Levels (688 only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
  • Page 8 688 User’s Guide...

  • Page 9: Overview Of Chassis

    Overview of Chassis The 688 chassis is made of light-weight Topics in this section include: and durable carbon-fiber. Front, Top, and Bottom Panels The front panel of the chassis features Left Side Panel several easy-to-reach controls, Right Side Panel switches, LEDs, and a sunlight-visible Back Panel LCD screen.
  • Page 10 Headphone Clipping LED eature escription Power Switch and LED Powers 688 on and off, and indicates power status. Timecode LED Flashes blue to indicate whether the internal timecode generator (and QuickBoot) is active while the mixer is off. Menu Button Provides access to the Main menu.
  • Page 11 PFL is active. Because the CL-6 accessory provides separate PFL switches for inputs 7-12, when the CL-6 is attached to the 688, the dual-functionality of the six PFL switches on the 668 changes. Slide left activates PFL and slide right displays Input Settings for inputs 1-6 only.

  • Page 12: Left Side Panel

    688 User Guide Left Side Panel XLR Inputs TA3 Inputs Headphone Outputs eature escription XLR Inputs Active-balanced analog microphone- or line-level inputs. Inputs 1 and 6 can also accept AES3 or AES42 (Mode 1) signal. Pin-1 = ground, pin-2 = hot (+), and pin-3 = cold (-).
  • Page 13 eature escription 10-pin A and C Each connection includes a pair of transformer-isolated Outputs and a stereo unbalanced Return input. Analog Output levels are selected between Line, -10, and Mic levels in Main menu OUTPUTS section. 10-pin A outputs can be set to AES Outputs 5,6 and 7,8 in Main menu OUTPUTS section.
  • Page 14 688 User Guide...

  • Page 15: The Lcd And User Interface

    Meter Views The 688 displays important metering information at a glance on its LCD. All meter views provide various combinations of input, track, and return meters. By default, the first of three predefined meter views is shown. This view is known as the Main screen.

  • Page 16: Using Meter Views

    Press the METERS button. Each press of the button switches the display to the next view. Customizing Meter Views While the 688 provides three meter views by default, all three may be custom- ized to display the information you deem most important. To customize the meter views: 1.
  • Page 17 Accessing the Main Menu The majority of the 688’s settings are configured with the Main menu. To access the Main menu: MENU Button Press the MENU button. The Main menu is made up of categories, each with its own set of sub-menu options.
  • Page 18 Customizing the LCD and LEDs Because the 688 is a portable field mixer, it may be used in a variety of environ- ments, including some where lighting is an issue that requires adjustments to the mixer. With some System settings, you can modify the brightness levels of the LCD, the brightness levels of the LEDs, and even enable or disable the LCD Daylight mode.
  • Page 19 To toggle LCD Daylight mode: SELECT + HP: simultaneously press the SELECT and Headphone encoders.
  • Page 20 688 User Guide...

  • Page 21: Headphone Monitoring

    Connect headphones to either the 1/4-inch or 3.5mm headphone outputs, lo- cated on the left panel of the 688. ⚠ The 688 can drive headphones to dangerously high vol- umes. Turn down the headphone gain before attaching headphones or selecting a headphone source to prevent accidental high levels.

  • Page 22: Headphone Encoder Mode

    688 User Guide Turn the encoder to change the headphone source. Options include: LR ST, LR Mono, L Mono, R Mono, LR MS ST, X1X2, and HP Preset (1) through HP Preset (10). The headphone source changes immediately as it is highlighted in the list.
  • Page 23 The Headphone Preset Editing screen appears. Left HP Right HP Pre-fade routing Unrouted source Post-fade routing Do one of the following: Turn the Headphone encoder to move the orange highlight horizontally. Turn the Select encoder to move the orange highlight vertically. Press the Headphone or Select encoder to change the selected source be- tween Off (black), Post-fade (blue), and Pre-fade (green).
  • Page 24 688 User Guide Headphone Source Shortcuts There are a total of four headphone monitor shortcuts on the 688. By default, these shortcuts go to: RTN A, RTN B, COM RTN, and the headphone source set as favorite. To monitor RTN A: Slide the RTN/FAV switch to the left.

  • Page 25: Power

    Normal Voltage (Green) Warning Voltage (Yellow) Low Voltage (Orange) Critical Voltage (Red) Using External Power The 688 uses only one power source at a time, with external DC power taking precedence over internal AA battery power.
  • Page 26 Pin-4 of the locking, Hirose connector is positive (+) and pin-1 is negative (-). Using Battery Power The 688 uses five AA batteries as a backup to external power. Alkaline AA bat- teries may be used with the 688; however, NiMH batteries are the preferred type because they provide for longer run times compared to Alkaline batteries.

  • Page 27: Power Settings

    When all power sources are depleted, PowerSafe shutdown occurs automatically. Power Settings The 688 allows you to configure the type of external power source and what the mixer should do in the event of an unintentional power loss. To configure Power settings: 1.

  • Page 28: Power Consumption

    QuickBoot circuitry is enabled for two hours after the 688 is powered down. During this time, the 688 can turn on and start recording in less than two sec- onds. Each time the 688 is turned on and off, the two-hour timer is reset. Be- yond the two-hour mark, QuickBoot is deactivated, so powering up results in a normal, slightly longer boot-up process.

  • Page 29: Inputs

    Inputs The 688 has 12 analog inputs, which are Topics in this section include: assignable pre- or post- fade to outputs Physical Input Controls for optimum routing flexibility. Activate an Input The inputs include six high-bandwidth Input Setting Screens mic/line inputs on XLR connectors, each...

  • Page 30: Activate An Input

    • Blinking Yellow: Input soloed (PFL) in headphone monitors. Activate an Input The 688 has six dedicated Trim controls on the front panel. To activate an input: 1. If the Trim control for an Input is recessed, push it in and it will pop out.

  • Page 31: Setting Input Source

    Channel number Channel name Input level meter Trim gain value Fader gain value HPF setting Input source setting X1 / X2 routing L / R routing Input Settings screen for inputs 1 through 6 include an INV option for inverting phase.

  • Page 32: Setting Input High-Pass Filters

    688 User Guide nput ypes Channel 2 OFF, MIC, MIC-PH, LINE, LINE PH AES 42, AES 3 is conditionally available only if Channel 1 is already set to AES 42 or AES 3 Channel 3 OFF, MIC, MIC-PH, LINE, LINE PH...

  • Page 33: Track Name Shortcut

    Take List Overview. Inverting the Phase Phase inversion is available on all 12 channels of the 688, but the process for inverting the phase varies depending on the channel. To invert the phase of channels 1 through 6: 1. Slide the PFL switch left to access the Input Settings screen for the chosen input (1-6).

  • Page 34: Adjusting Trim And Fader Controls

    688 User Guide To invert the phase of channels 7 through 12: 1. Press the MENU button. Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select INPUTS > Inputs 7-12 Phase. Turn the Headphone encoder to highlight the chosen input (7-12) and press the encoder to invert the phase.

  • Page 35: Input Settings

    Inputs 1-6 have dedicated Trim controls, but that is not the case for inputs 7-12. By attaching the optional CL-6 accessory, which provides additional dedicated controls, the functionality of the Mini-faders on the 688 changes to become Trim controls. To adjust trim for inputs 7-12: 1.

  • Page 36: Configuring Linking

    After setting the pan, press the Pan pot in to recess the control when not in use. Input Settings The Main menu has a sub-menu of settings related to inputs. These may be used to customize the configuration of the 688. To access Inputs sub-menu: 1. Press the MENU button.

  • Page 37: Configuring Phantom Voltage

    2 and pin 3 of an input’s XLR-3F connector, relative to pin 1. In this configuration, there is no voltage difference between signal pins 2 and 3. On the 688, the factory default sets phantom power voltage to 48 volts, but that may be changed. To configure phantom voltage:...

  • Page 38: Configuring The Pfl Toggle Mode

    By default, access to PFL and the Input Settings screen for inputs 1-12 can be achieved with one hand. This is called 12-Channel mode. However, the PFL switches on the 688 may be configured to focus operation solely on inputs 1-6, while leaving inputs 7-12 accessible via a button combina- tion.

  • Page 39: Configuring Input Delay

    Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select INPUTS > Input to ISO Routing. Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select the desired input routing and edit its value. Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select Prefade or Postfade. Input to ISO Routing for inputs 1-8 also affects the pre- or post-fade status of those inputs’...

  • Page 40: Outputs

    Sending Tone to Outputs Output Connections On the 688, the Left and Right XLR-M and Hirose 10-pin connectors are each transformer balanced from separate windings. This improves isolation from po- tential interference. Aux outputs X1 to X4 use active-balanced TA3 connections.

  • Page 41: Output Settings

    Output Settings The Main menu has a sub-menu of settings related to outputs. These may be used to customize the configuration of the 688 outputs. To access Outputs sub-menu: 1. Press the MENU button. Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select OUTPUTS.

  • Page 42: Output Linking

    menu escription ptions RTN Loopback Routing Displays the RTN Loopback Routing • RTN Left: X1 - X6 screen. • RTN Right: X1 - X6 • Tape Out Select output sources for Return Loop- back mode. Output Linking Output linking allows the gain, delay, and track arm status (L, R, X1, X2 only) of an output pair to be controlled with only one action.

  • Page 43: Output Routing

    688 User Guide Output Routing The master L and R tracks are permanently routed to their respective outputs, unless the connections have been set to AES, in which case they use AES out- put routing. AES Output Routing There is a total of 8 channels of digital output on 4 connections. Each of the XLR-3M or 10-pin A outputs can be configured to output AES3 digital signals.

  • Page 44: Aux (X1 - X6) Routing

    Aux (X1 - X6) Routing X1 and X2 tracks are routed to their respective outputs by default. Output sources are configured in the Output routing screen. To access the Aux Output Routing screen: 1. Press the MENU button. Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select OUTPUTS > X1-X6 Rout- ing.

  • Page 45: Tape Output Routing

    688 User Guide The X1 and X2 Output Routing screens differ from the other Output Routing screens. Aux and HP sources are not available, but an additional Input Setting appears: Locked Unlocked When Input Setting is set to Locked, changing the X1 and X2 routing from the Input Settings screens is disabled, preventing accidental routing of channels to those outputs using the MIC/TONE switch.

  • Page 46: Playback To Lr Outputs

    Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select OUTPUTS > Tape Out Source. Choose a source to be routed to Tape Output. Options include: L/R, RTN A, RTN B, or RTN C. RTN A RTN B RTN C Playback to LR Outputs By default, audio on L and R recorded tracks will be sent to the headphone out- puts and both L and R outputs during playback.

  • Page 47: Return Loopback Mode

    688 User Guide Delay value during adjustment Delay value of selected output in mS Frame calculation of selected output 1 mS or 10 mS increments Frames / mS mode Turn and press the Headphone encoder to enter delay adjustment mode.

  • Page 48: Sending Tone To Outputs

    Return Loopback mode outputs apply to all returns. Sending Tone to Outputs The 688’s internal tone oscillator can be used to send a predefined tone or pulse to the mixer’s outputs to aid setup of proper gain staging with other equipment, such as cameras.
  • Page 49 688 User Guide...
  • Page 50 All 688 limiters use a 20:1 compression ratio. This means that any signal that exceeds the threshold by 20 dB will exit the limiting stage at only 1 dB above the threshold. The 688 limiters have a 1 ms attack time and a 500 ms release time.

  • Page 51: Adjusting The Threshold

    (1 dBu increments) Linking Limiters Limiters for L, R and X1, X2 channel pairs can be linked on the 688. Anytime two limiters are linked, both channels will be limited when signal reaches the threshold in any channel of the pair.
  • Page 52 To link limiters: 1. Press the MENU button. Do either one or both of the following: Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select LIMITERS > L, R Link- ing. Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select LIMITERS > X1, X2 Linking.
  • Page 53 688 User Guide...

  • Page 54: Overview

    MixAssist ™ The 688’s powerful digital processing Topics in this section include: engine delivers 12-channel auto-mixing Overview capability using the most sophisticated Noise Adaptive Threshold algorithm on the market. One Mic Per Sound Source Number of Open Microphone Attenuation MixAssist automatically attenuates the...

  • Page 55: One Mic Per Sound Source

    MixAssist Setup Screen While MixAssist on the 688 is capable of auto-mixing all 12 inputs, MixAssist may be configured, from the MixAssist screen, to attenuate fewer inputs or none at all.

  • Page 56: Turning Mixassist On Or Off

    Turning MixAssist On or Off By default, the MixAssist feature is turned off. MixAssist is also disabled automatically when Main menu option RECORDER > Sample Rate is set to a value higher than 48.048 kHz. To turn MixAssist on or off: 1.

  • Page 57: Lcd Views During Mixassist

    688 User Guide LCD Views During MixAssist A circle icon is displayed next to the meter for each active MixAssist input. When the input is open, the circle will be green. As the input closes, the circle will fade to black.

  • Page 58: Recording

    Using Media Before recording anything, install and format the media storage memory cards you intend to use in the 688. The slots for memory cards are located on the right panel behind the Media Door, which is held closed magnetically.

  • Page 59: Transport Control

    688 User Guide The memory card must be formatted before recording. ⚠ Reformatting a card will erase all data on the card. To (re)format an SD or CF card: 1. Press the MENU button. Transport MENU Control Button Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select File Stor- age.

  • Page 60: Recording Tracks

    Press in the Transport control to stop recording. Recording Tracks The 688 features 16 recording tracks. Each of the 12 inputs is permanently routed to its associated ISO track. Buses L, R, X1, and X2 can also be armed for recording.

  • Page 61: Recorder Settings

    Recorder Settings The Main menu has a sub-menu of settings related to recording. These may be used to customize the configuration of the 688’s Record settings. To access the Recorder sub-menu: 1. Press the MENU button Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select RECORDER.

  • Page 62: File Type And Media Track Assignment

    The default is 0 seconds. File Type and Media Track Assignment The 688 supports simultaneous recording to CF and SD media. By default, all armed tracks are recorded to both cards as a polyphonic WAV file. It is possible to record only the armed ISO tracks, only the armed L and R tracks, or only the armed X1 and X2 tracks to either media.

  • Page 63: Mp3 Bit Rate

    688 User Guide MP3 Bit Rate The 688 records MP3 files at a default bit rate of 320kbs, but that bit rate may be changed. A high bit rate MP3 file preserves more audio information with an increased file size. A low bit rate MP3 file preserves less audio information with a decreased file size.

  • Page 64: F Sample Modes

    MP3 recording is not allowed in “F mode”. Bit Depth The 688 records 24 bit WAV files by default. Bit depth defines the digital word length used to represent a given sample and correlates to the maximum dy- namic range that is represented by the digital signal. Larger bit depths accom- modate a wide dynamic range.

  • Page 65: Slate Microphone

    Returns. Playback Playback may be initiated at any time except when the 688 is recording. Un- less playback is initiated from the Take List or File List, the active take will be played. The active take is whichever take was recorded or played most recently.

  • Page 66: Viewing Approved Media List Via Smart Phone Qr Code

    List. Viewing Approved Media List via Smart Phone QR Code The 688 provides QR codes on screen for smart phone access to product-related documentation, including the Approved Media List, available online. Accessing documentation via a QR code requires the installation on your smart phone of a code reader application—many of which are available as free downloads...
  • Page 67 688 User Guide...

  • Page 68: Comms And Returns

    The 688 incorporates a built-in slate mic and a TA3 connector for an external slate mic. The built-in mic is the default. Its audio performance is not suitable for critical recording applications;...

  • Page 69: Setting Slate Mic Gain

    688 User Guide crophones) or Ext 15V Mic (for condenser microphones). When the Slate or COM function is active, the 688 will use this microphone. Setting Slate Mic Gain The gain of the slate mic is 36 dB by default. If this gain is too high, it can be...

  • Page 70: Using The Slate For Notation

    Tone LED turns off, and the headphone monitor reverts to its previous source. Using Private Comms The 688 features Comms for private communication between the 688 operator and other members of the crew. The most common use of Comms is for the sound mixer to communicate with the boom operator.

  • Page 71: Monitoring Com/Rtn

    688 User Guide Slide the MIC/TONE switch left again. The slate mic deactivates and the Slate/Tone LED turns off. Monitoring COM/RTN The COM RTN allows the Sound Mixer to hear communication back from other members of the production crew, such as the boom op. The COM RTN signal can be quickly heard in headphones by using the assigned RTN/FAV toggle action or by assigning it to a custom HP preset.

  • Page 72: Com Return Gain

    menu escription ptions FAV Switch Action Selects the action of FAV switch (primary) • No Action and the action of the Select + FAV switch • RTN A (secondary function) • RTN B • RTN C • Com RTN • FAV-Headphone Com Return Gain By default, the gain of the COM RTN input is 0 dB.
  • Page 73 688 User Guide witcH eFauLt ction VaiLabLe ctions MIC/TONE left Slate • No Action • Slate • Com SELECT + MIC/TONE left RTN/FAV left RTN A • No Action • RTN A SELECT + RTN/FAV left Com RTN • RTN B •...

  • Page 74: Timecode And Sync

    If necessary, pre-roll and post-roll is dynamically applied to accomplish this, simplifying syn- chronization in post-production. The timecode value and frame rate of the 688 are displayed on the Main screen.

  • Page 75: Setting The Timecode Mode

    Timecode is derived from external timecode sources. Ext-TC Auto-Rec Reader Timecode is based on external timecode sources, and allows recording on the 688 to be triggered via external timecode starting and stopping. Ext-TC/Cont Reader/ Timecode is based on external timecode sources.

  • Page 76: Setting The Frame Rate

    Setting the Frame Rate By default, the 688’s frame rate for the timecode generator is set to 30nd. The frame rate value is stored in the Frame Rate field of metadata. When using an external timecode mode, ensure the mixer’s frame rate is equal to (or cross-jam compatible to) the external frame rate.

  • Page 77: Jamming The Timecode

    688 User Guide If Pre-Roll is set, it will be applied. Pre-Roll will only capture audio from the initial detection of a timecode signal. If no Pre-Roll is selected, the file will begin after the Hold Off time expires. It is best practice to set Pre-Roll to a value greater than the specified Hold Off value.

  • Page 78: Setting User Bits

    A fourth mode allows user bits to be derived from an external source. If that mode is to be used, ensure the external source for timecode user bits is at- tached to the 688 via the 5-pin LEMO connector on the mixer’s right panel be- fore setting the mode.

  • Page 79: Setting Display Mode

    The Word Clock BNC input connection on the back panel may be used to clock from an external signal. The 688 internal word clock may also be used as clock master by connecting its output connection to external audio devices.

  • Page 80: Word Clock Sensitivity

    Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select TIMECODE/SYNC > Sync Reference. Set the sync reference to Word Clock. When the 688 is locked to external word clock, it is indicated by WCK in yellow text at the bottom of the Main screen. Wordclock value If no valid external word clock is present, the word UNLOCK blinks yellow and red on the Main screen.
  • Page 81 688 User Guide...

  • Page 82: File Storage

    S01T01_3.WAV scene number extension take number track designator The track designators are associated with the 688 tracks. This differs from track names which may be edited and are covered in depth in the Metadata section of this guide.

  • Page 83: Transferring Files To Pc

    When finished recording, and the media remaining time on the Main screen is white, you may remove the SD or CF card(s) from the 688 and mount them to any computer and transfer your recorded files using a card reader or card slot.

  • Page 84: Take List And File List

    Take List and File List A file is an individual file stored on attached media. A take is a single recording that can consist of multiple files on one or both media. The Take List displays a list of takes and provides functions for deleting, renaming, and editing of meta- data fields.

  • Page 85: Deleting Files Or Folders

    688 User Guide File list of CF root File list within a folder (named “Dune”) Turn the Headphone encoder to highlight a chosen file or folder. Information pertaining to your selection appears on the right. Slide the RTN/FAV switch to access options. The OPTION menu will vary de- pending on the file or folder selected.

  • Page 86: File Storage Settings

    • Daily Folder Change • Either Scene or Daily File Playback Mode Determines what (If any) playback action • Play Once the 688 will perform upon reaching the • Play All end of a file during playback. • Repeat One • Repeat All...

  • Page 87: Setting Folder Options

    When the Mid-level folder is set to <Daily>, a folder will be created auto- matically and named according to the date. Whenever a new day occurs, the 688 will prompt the user to confirm the creation of a new daily folder. •...

  • Page 88: Generating Sound Reports

    The mid level folder value is stored in the Roll (Tape) field of metadata. Generating Sound Reports The 688 can generate sound reports as a comma separated values (CSV) file. CSV files can be opened and edited by any common spreadsheet application...

  • Page 89: Defining File Max Size

    Recording Tracks details. Setting Scene Increment Mode The 688 provides a Scene Increment shortcut, but it is disabled by default. Scene names will not increment unless the Scene Increment mode is enabled. Shortcuts for a description of all button shortcuts.

  • Page 90: Setting Take Reset Mode

    Setting Take Reset Mode By default, take numbers reset when a new scene is selected or when a new daily folder is created. This behavior can be modified to only happen when the daily folder changes, only happen when the scene changes, or to never happen. To set take reset mode: 1.

  • Page 91: Erase / Format Media

    An alternative way to set the default playback card is to press in and hold the Headphone encoder while pushing down on the Transport control. Erase / Format Media Before recording to CF or SD media, cards must be formatted by the 688. To format media: 1. Press the MENU button.

  • Page 92: Metadata And Take List

    A take can Take List Overview consist of multiple metadata files. Accessing the Take List The 688 Take List allows the sound Playing Takes mixer to enter and edit the metadata Editing Metadata on the 688...

  • Page 93: Accessing The Take List

    Push down the Transport control to begin playback. The Main screen is dis- played, and playback begins. Editing Metadata on the 688 Notes, Scene, Take, Circle Status, Folder (tape), Project, and all track names may be edited directly from the Take List for next or previous takes.

  • Page 94: Metadata Overview

    For list fields, use the Headphone encoder to select a value. Metadata Overview On the 688 broadcast WAV files include iXML data and bEXT chunk data. For applications that don’t recognize bEXT or iXML, this information is ignored. The following chart details the supported metadata parameters.

  • Page 95: Renaming Or Deleting Previous Takes

    688 User Guide (u = u , m = m etaData arameter toreD in et by acHine Originator Reference bEXT Software Version bEXT Family UID iXML M; shared by files belonging to the same take Total Files iXML M; number of files representing a take...

  • Page 96: Editing Metadata In Other Programs

    Editing Metadata in Other Programs Since Sound Devices recorders write metadata to WAV files using the Broadcast Wave File standard, many professional applications can read and edit this meta- data. Sometimes, it is useful to edit metadata in bulk after recording and before...
  • Page 97 688 User Guide...

  • Page 98: System

    System settings not already covered elsewhere. Setting up Tones and Bells The 688’s internal tone oscillator, used for sending tone to outputs and tracks, has several settings to accommodate different workflows. Activating tone is explained in more detail in the...

  • Page 99: Configuring Record/Stop And Warning Bells

    688 User Guide arameter escription ptions Tone Routing Displays the Tone Routing screen where the • Outputs: L, R, and tone signal can be routed to any output or X1-X6 track. • Tracks: L, R, X1, X2, and tracks 1-12 By default, all outputs and tracks are selected.

  • Page 100: Configuring The Meters

    By default, the Record/Stop bells are turned on, but they may be turned off. Disabling does not apply to Warning bells. To turn on or off the Record/Stop bells: 1. Press the MENU button. Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select SYSTEM > Record/Stop Bell.

  • Page 101: Setting Meter Ballistics And Peak Hold

    688 User Guide ption escription xampLe Bottom Positions track names on the lower end of the meter scale. The example shows solid meters. Bottom w/ramp Applies a gradient to the background color, and positions track names on the lower end of the meter scale.

  • Page 102: Setting Peak Hold

    Setting the correct GMT time zone and daylight savings values is also vital for correct data stamping on the exFAT file system. The 688 has several System settings related to date and time parameters: arameter escription...
  • Page 103 688 User Guide arameter escription ptions Time Zone Sets the time zone, based on Greenwich Mean • GMT-1:00 – -12.00 Time (GMT). • GMT • GMT+1:00 – +13:00 Daylight Savings Sets whether or not daylight savings is in effect. • On Time By default, daylight savings is off.

  • Page 104: Calibrating Faders & Pans

    To disable, turn and press the encoder to select Off. Calibrating Faders & Pans The 688 Faders and Pan pots come pre-calibrated to center. However, should they ever need to be recalibrated, that can be done via a System settings sub- menu option.

  • Page 105: Using A Usb Keyboard

    The alternative option is Factory Test, which is a setting reserved for the purposes of in-house quality assurance testing. Included with the 688 is a USB 2.0 A (Female to Female) connector and a USB A to B cable, which may be used to connect a standard USB keyboard to the 688 mixer.

  • Page 106: Viewing Version Information

    Turn and press the Headphone encoder to select SYSTEM > Version Info. Updating Firmware Periodically, Sound Devices releases firmware updates to improve system per- formance and expand the 688 feature set, which may be downloaded from the website and used to update the firmware on the mixer. To update firmware: 1.
  • Page 107 688 User Guide...

  • Page 108: Quick Setup

    Saving Settings After you have configured the 688’s settings via the Main menu and Input Set- tings screens, you can save the configuration as a Quick Setup file. To save settings as a Quick Setup file: 1.

  • Page 109: Copying Quick Setup Files

    688 User Guide Name your Quick Setup file. When saving to CF or SD cards, if a file with the entered name already exists, that previous file will be overwritten by the new file you save. Slide the RTN/FAV switch to select OK and save your Quick Setup file.

  • Page 110: Loading Previously Saved Settings

    Slide the RTN/FAV switch to access OPTION. Select Delete. Loading Previously Saved Settings For fast reconfiguring of the 688, previously stored Quick Setup files may be easily loaded from internal locations or memory cards inserted into the mixer. To load a Quick Setup file: 1.
  • Page 111 688 User Guide...

  • Page 112: Front Panel Shortcuts

    Shortcuts The 688 features numerous shortcuts to Topics in this section include: help speed navigation. Front Panel Shortcuts The shortcuts require either USB Keyboard Shortcuts simultaneously pressing combinations of front panel controls or using keystroke combinations when a USB keyboard is attached to the mixer.
  • Page 113 688 User Guide unction equence ction Toggle Playback Card HP + Play: Press and hold down the Headphone encoder then push the Transport control down- ward (Play). This toggles the playback media card between SD or CF. Target media is indicated by a green back- ground on the Main screen.

  • Page 114: Usb Keyboard Shortcuts

    A standard USB keyboard connects to the 688 to ease navigation and data en- try. Attach the keyboard to the 688 USB port using a USB A to USB A adapter (included). Anytime the QWERTY pop up keyboard is displayed, the USB key- board can be used to enter data.
  • Page 115 688 User Guide eystrokes ction Alt + Enter Main screen: Toggles arming of selected track. Ctrl + Enter Access gain adjustment for highlighted L, R, X1, X2, X3, X4, X5, X6, or RTN track. Ctrl + Up/Down Arrows Main screen: Select tracks.

  • Page 116: Specifications

    Specifications Various product specifications for Topics in this section include: the 688 are provided here for your Analog Inputs convenience. They relate to inputs Digital Inputs and outputs, powering, environmental Analog Outputs parameters, as well as physical aspects Digital Outputs/Recorder of the mixer.

  • Page 117: Digital Inputs

    688 User Guide High-Pass Filters Adjustable 80 Hz to 240 Hz, 18 dB/oct at 80 Hz (Up to 96 kHz SR) Fixed 50 Hz, 6 dB/octave (192 kHz SR) • Blue: 96 K full response • Green: 96 K 80 Hz •...

  • Page 118: Digital Outputs/Recorder

    Output Limiters • L/R and X1/X2, adjustable threshold from +4 dBu to +18 dBu, soft knee/hard knee • 20:1 limiting ratio • 1 mS attack time • 500 mS release time Digital Outputs/Recorder escription AES3 Output: • AES Out 1-4 on XLR-3M connectors •...
  • Page 119 688 User Guide Wordclock • In/Out: Square wave; 10k/75 ohm, 1-5 V p-p input; 75 ohm, 5 V p-p output, at SR • Termination: 75 ohm, Off Power escription External Power Supply • 10-18 V on locking 4-pin Hirose connector, pin-4 = (+), pin-1 = (-) •...

  • Page 120: Electronic Accessories

    System. CL-6 This optional input controller attaches to the bot- tom of the 688 and adds six full-sized tactile fader controls, sunlight-viewable LED metering and big, back-lit Record and Stop controls. When the CL-6 is attached to a 688, the 688’s mini-faders, origi-...

  • Page 121: Cases

    XL-2F A 25-inch XLR-3F to TA3-F cable, used to connect mixers and other devices with XLR-3M outputs to the TA3 7-12 inputs on the 688. Also used to attach standard microphone as auxiliary slate mic. Each package contains two cables.
  • Page 122 (stereo return A and C) breakout cable; includes in-line 20-foot extension cable. The XL-10 is a high-quality multi-pin breakout and extension cable designed specifically for Sound Devices field production mixers. It provides easy access to the balanced outputs and stereo return A and C con- nections.

  • Page 123: Software

    BNC connectors, for SMTPE time- code. XL-LL LEMO-5 to LEMO-5 coiled cable for timecode inter- connection between the 688 and other devices. XL-LX LEMO-5 to XLR-3F input and XLR-3M output for timecode interconnection between the 688 and other devices.

  • Page 124: Sl-6 Powering And Wireless System

    Each slot accepts one (single- or dual-channel) SuperSlot or unislot receiver. The connection provides power to the receiver and connects the receiver’s audio output directly to the 688. Antenna Distribution SMA connectors with right-angle adapters are used to connect receiv- leads ers to the SL-6 antenna distribution system.

  • Page 125: Right Panel

    (12 V) eature escription Hirose 4-pin DC Input Hirose 4-pin DC input for powering the SL-6 and 688. Power must be attached to this connector or an NP-1 battery must be inserted to power the SL-6 and 688. Coaxial DC Outputs...

  • Page 126: Power Screen

    Safe™ battery will keep the SL-6 and attached devices powered for 10 seconds while recording is stopped. If any power source is attached to the 688’s external DC input, or if internal AA batteries are present, the 688 (and CL-6, if attached) will continue to operate using those power sources.

  • Page 127: Sl-6 Dc Outputs

    Off. To protect NP-1 batteries from exceeding their maximum discharge current, when total power draw reaches 45 watts, the 688 displays a warning message. When total power draw reaches 50 watts (SWIT battery) or 53 watts (IDX bat- tery), the DC outputs will be turned off in descending order (output 4 - 1) until power draw drops below 45 watts.

  • Page 128: Using Antenna Distribution

    For best performance, Sound Devices recommends directional remote antennas. Independent 12 volt antenna bias for powering active antennas is provided at each SL-6 antenna BNC connector.

  • Page 129: Using Wireless Receivers

    The SL-6 supports SuperSlot and unislot receivers on a DB-25 connection. The SL-6 receiver slots provide power and audio connection to both types of receiv- ers. Additionally, SuperSlot receivers can be controlled from the 688 interface. To connect antennas to the SL-6: Connect each antenna directly to each BNC Antenna Connector on the SL-6.

  • Page 130: Selecting A Wireless Source

    When a wireless receiver output is routed to a 688 input, that channel’s input source is set to SL-6. When a wireless receiver output is not routed from a 688 input, that channel’s input source is set to OFF.

  • Page 131: Unislot Receivers

    When the 688 is powered on, the SL-6 will power receivers automatically, and attached SuperSlot receivers will boot up with their panel buttons locked. Sound Devices recommends, if the 688 is powered on, you do not power down at- tached SuperSlot receivers. If SuperSlot receivers are powered down manually (by unlocking the receivers’...

  • Page 132: Automatic Receiver Output Setup

    688 automatically sets the SRBs gain level to +2, and the phase to +. There is no reason to manually set the SRB to any other level. Use the 688’s trim control to make any necessary adjustments. Wisycom MCR-42S...

  • Page 133: Receiver Details Screen - Example A

    To cycle through compatibility modes: Slide MIC/TONE switch left or right. 688 channel information Displays the name and number of the 688 channel to which the receiver is routed. Pre-fade level Displays pre-fade audio level of the receiver’s output on the 688 input to which it is routed.

  • Page 134: Receiver Details Screen - Example B

    creen Lement escription Block & Tx Switch Displays the block number and transmitter switch value. Tuning Displays current tuning group. When adjusting frequency, values will be restricted to the selected tuning group. “Fine” sets increment to .025, and “Normal” sets increment to .1 To cycle through tuning groups: Slide RTN/FAV switch left.
  • Page 135 Lement escription Pre-fade level Displays pre-fade audio level of the receiver’s output on the 688 input to which it is routed. Frequency lock Lock icon is visible for channels in which the frequency is locked. Frequency cannot be adjusted when locked.

  • Page 136: Cl-6 Input Controller

    The CL-6 input controller is an optional, Topics in this section include: input-expansion accessory available for Front Panel use with Sound Devices 688 or 664. Top and Bottom Panels The CL-6 adds dedicated front panel Trim Levels (688 only) controls, including six full-sized fader...

  • Page 137: Top And Bottom Panels

    User Guide eature escription L Mix Indicator Illuminates blue when the input has been routed to the left bus. Input LED Indicates input signal activity. Illuminates in various colors and inten- sities to show signal level and activity. • Green = signal presence (pre-fader) •...

  • Page 138: Trim Levels (688 Only)

    Trim Levels (688 only) When the CL-6 is attached to the 688, the mini-faders on the 688 become dedi- cated trim controls for inputs 7-12. To adjust the trim level for inputs 7-12: Turn the appropriate mini-fader on the 688. The trim gain is displayed on the mixer’s LCD via the Input Settings screen.

  • Page 139: Quick Routing Of L And R Tracks

    User Guide Quick Routing of L and R Tracks With the CL-6, you can quickly route an input to the left or right mix bus. To route an input to L or R mix bus: 1. Hold down the input’s High-pass Filter button. Then, with that button held down, do either of the following: Slide the Input Select switch left to route the input to the L mix bus.
  • Page 140 • Detachable accessory compartment for wireless transmitters, receivers, recorders, or mixers • Divider/compartment insert for use with 664 or 688 without attached accessory, such as the CL-6 or SL-6 • Battery compartment holds an NP-type battery below the unit •...
  • Page 141 CS-664 Production Case...
  • Page 142 ® Sound Devices, LLC Customer Support Product Information E7556 Road 23 and 33 Reedsburg, Wisconsin 53959 Toll Free: (800) 505-0625 For more information about products and accessories, visit us on the web at www.sounddevices.com. support@sounddevices.com Phone: +1 (608) 524-0625 http://www.sounddevices.com/support Fax: +1 (608) 524-0655 http://forum.sounddevices.com...

Table of Contents

Save PDF