Panasonic 744T User Manual

744T User Guide and Technical Information 

4

firmware v. 1.04 

Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.

Routing Inputs to Tracks 

Before recording, inputs must be assigned to tracks. Each of the 744T’s four inputs (1, 2, 3, 4) can 
be assigned to any of the four tracks (A, B, C, D). These sixteen possible routing combinations are 
shown on the front panel with 16 blue LEDs. Illuminated LEDs indicate input-to-track assignment. 

   Press the 

 input key to cycle through factory routing presets. The 744T has six often-used presets 

for quick setup of input-to-track routing combinations. Note the routing combinations on the blue LEDs 
with each successive press. 

   If none of the preset routing combinations are suitable, assign a custom routing. Sequential presses of 

the 

 input key will eventually cycle to the custom routing option (see 

). 

   Press Exit to leave input routing mode. 

Recording Parameter Setup 

For most productions, the general recording parameters of sample rate, bit depth, media selection, 
and fi le format are changed infrequently. Enter the setup menu to verify recording settings. Sample 
rate and bit depth are displayed on the LCD panel. 

   Select the bit depth as needed. 

   Set the sample rate as needed. 

   Select the fi le format for recorded fi les. 

   Select the storage medium (internal hard drive, Compact Flash, or both) for recording. 

Time Code Setup 

When using a time code workfl ow, proper time code setup is essential. Skip this section if time code 
is not being used. 

   Select a time code frame rate appropriate for your project. For fi lm, typical the time code rates are 30 fps 

non-drop (US) or 25 fps (EU). For standard defi nition video projects, use either 29.97 or 29.97 non-drop. 
For high-defi nition projects, use either 23.976 or 29.97. 

   Select the time code run mode:  free run, continuous jam, record run, or 24 hr. run. 

   Use the 744T as the master clock source and jam time code to all other recording devices. This will 

assure that every device is using the same time reference. (See 

 for additional information on 

time code setup). 

Recording 

Now that fi le basics are set, you are ready to begin recording. The 744T is a record-priority box. 
Pressing the record key cancels all functions—except fi le operations—and immediately starts record-
ing a new fi le. When record is pressed, the red record LED illuminates to confi rm record mode. The 
fi lename in the LCD display shows the currently recorded fi le. Push the 

 stop (150 ms) key to 

end recording. 

Playback 

When recording is stopped, the most recently recorded fi le is immediately available for playback. 
Press the 

 key to begin fi le playback from the beginning of the fi le. 

To select a fi le for playback: