Description
FOSTEX PORTABLE COMPACT FLASH RECORDER - FR-2LE
The FR-2LE field recorder is a robust, professional, portable, location recorder which records stereo audio from a pair of built-in microphones or external inputs to a removable Compact Flash memory card in either BWF or MP3 file formats. In BWF mode, 24-bit, 96kHz sample-rate recording is supported. Files can be transferred to a PC or Mac-based DAW by USB connection for editing. Operating from standard batteries or a rechargeable pack, the FR-2LE uses high-quality microphone pre-amplifiers and has several useful recording features, including a pre-record buffer, a marker facility, wired remote-control and 48V phantom power.
Recording level may be adjusted manually with separate left and right controls, or automatic level control may be selected. A switchable limiter and high-pass filter are included. External inputs may be microphone or line-level; 48V phantom power is available. The pair of built-in electret microphones makes it suitable for recording meetings and conferences. Every take creates a new file, with markers being added manually 'on-the-fly' during recording or in 'Stop' mode, aiding location during play-back. The recorder has a two-second pre-record buffer to avoid missed takes or lost 'sound-bites'. Playback of any file is possible, with easy location to file star- points or to audio markers within files. There is also a 'cue playback' feature which allows the audio to be monitored in either direction at double speed. Either headphones or the internal monitor loudspeaker may be used for monitoring and playback. A USB 2.0 port facilitates connection to a Mac or PC, which will recognise the FR-2LE as an external drive in the usual way. The menu-based file management system permits file renaming and deletion, and includes an 'Audio Decision List' for organising files prior to upload. The FR-2LE case is made of 'high-grade' materials and is fitted with anchor points for the shoulder-strap supplied.
The main recording controls are located on the top of the unit to allow quick access when the recorder is carried by the shoulder strap. Large 'Rec' and 'Rec Standby' keys have red and green LED indication respectively. There is a dual-concentric record-level control for left and right channels, separate recessed left and right microphone level-trim controls, a pair of red peak-level LEDs, a monitor-level control and separate six-segment LED bargraph meters for left and right channels. The Compact Flash card-slot, with hinged protection flap, is also at the top of the recorder.
The front of the recorder has the back-lit LCD display which is used in conjunction with the menu system for configuration and settings. It also shows the current file name, left and right channel bargraph meters, a large time readout and other status information. The front panel also has large 'Play' and 'Stop/Cancel' keys. A further set of multi-function control keys provide forward and reverse track and file location, cue-point registration and deletion, menu navigation and display back-light and contrast adjustment. External connections are provided on the two side panels; the left has a pair of Neutrik combined XLR and 3-pole 6.35mm jack connectors for external microphone (XLR) and balanced line level (jack) inputs, a coaxial socket for external DC power and a 3.5mm 3-pole jack socket for connection of the wired remote-control unit. The right side-panel has a pair of RCA (phono) connectors for line output, a 3.5mm 3-pole jack for headphones and the type B USB port. The power switch is also located on this panel; as a safety feature, it has a 'soft' action requiring a long press to turn the recorder off. The battery compartment is located at the bottom of the unit and the monitor loudspeaker at the rear.
Compatible media:
Compact Flash card, 128MB to 8GB.
Recording formats:
MP3: Two-channel 192kbps.
BWF files: Two-channel 16-bit 44.1kHz or 48kHz; 24-bit 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz or 96kHz.
Recording time with 1GB CF card:
MP3: 11h 10m.
BWF: 90m 16-bit 48kHz, 60m 24-bit 48kHz, 30m 24-bit 96kHz.
CF cards with other capacities have pro-rata recording times.
Card file system: FAT partition, FAT32.
External microphone inputs: -50dBu maximum sensitivity, greater than 6000 ohms balanced. Line inputs: +2dBV maximum input level, greater than 10000 ohms, unbalanced. Response: 20-20000Hz +/-2dB, 44.1/48kHz sample rate, 20-40000Hz +/-3dB, 88.2/96kHz. Distortion: less than 0.008%, 1kHz, 24-bit, 48kHz sampling. Noise: better than -85dB, microphone input, 60dB gain, 24-bit, 48kHz sampling. Line outputs: -10dBV nominal level, unbalanced. Headphone output: 2 x 15mW into 32 ohms. Power source: 12V DC, AC adaptor included, 4 x AA batteries (alkaline, NiMH or NiCd) or rechargeable 7.2V battery. Dimensions: 57 x 206 x 132mm. Weight: 800g without batteries.
Note that the FR-2LE does not have any charging facility, an external charger must be used. Approximate battery life: 4h NiMH, 4h alkaline, 8h rechargeable battery pack.
Included accessories: 128MB Compact Flash card, battery case for 4x AA batteries, wired remote-control with fixing belt, soft case, shoulder strap, AC adapter, owners manual and warranty card.
Optional accessories: Compact Flash cards with other capacities, The shower resistant carrying case, which is designed for use in the field. Rechargeable battery pack. Battery charger.
Required accessories: Batteries (alkaline, NiMH, NiCd AA size, or rechargeable battery pack and charger), USB cable.