Fostex X-34 User Manual
3
Model X-34 Owner’s Manual
Thank you for purchasing the Fostex Model X-34 multitracker.
The X-34 is a four-track, four-channel cassette tape recorder that features four line inputs, plus two inputs that accept
a range of inputs from line level to mic level. Each channel module is equipped with a two-band EQ for superior sound
quality. The X-34 also provides flexible elements, such as the AUX send/return connectors for applying desired external
effects and the recording track-select switches that enable you to specify any track as the recording destination. A speed
of 9.5cm/s and Dolby B type noise reduction ensure high quality recording. In particular, the exclusive Fostex “Auto
Bounce function” makes ping-pong recording a breeze.
The X-34 contains a “Rehearsal” mode, which is convenient for punching in and out. You can practice until you are
ready to record.
Please read this owner’s manual thoroughly before using the X-34 to make the best use of its features and extend the
useful life of the unit.
The X-34 is a four-track, four-channel cassette tape recorder that features four line inputs, plus two inputs that accept
a range of inputs from line level to mic level. Each channel module is equipped with a two-band EQ for superior sound
quality. The X-34 also provides flexible elements, such as the AUX send/return connectors for applying desired external
effects and the recording track-select switches that enable you to specify any track as the recording destination. A speed
of 9.5cm/s and Dolby B type noise reduction ensure high quality recording. In particular, the exclusive Fostex “Auto
Bounce function” makes ping-pong recording a breeze.
The X-34 contains a “Rehearsal” mode, which is convenient for punching in and out. You can practice until you are
ready to record.
Please read this owner’s manual thoroughly before using the X-34 to make the best use of its features and extend the
useful life of the unit.
Precautions (please read before use)
Power supply
* When unplugging the AC adapter from an outlet, be
sure to grasp the adapter. Attempting to unplug it by
pulling on the AC cable may damage the wiring.
pulling on the AC cable may damage the wiring.
* It is dangerous to use any power cable that is cut or
frayed. If the power cable is damaged, immediately
stop using it and have the unit repaired.
stop using it and have the unit repaired.
* Do not plug in or unplug the AC adapter with wet
hands. Doing so may result in dangerous electrical
shock.
shock.
* Do not open the unit or touch any parts inside.
Doing so may result in a dangerous electrical shock,
and may damage the unit.
* Do not let water or other liquids, flammable
materials, or metal objects such as pins get inside
the unit.
the unit.
These items may cause electrical shock or short
circuit the X-34 and damage it.
If the X-34 should become wet, unplug the AC adapter
from the AC outlet, and contact your authorized
service station.
service station.
* When turning the power on, turn the X-34 on first
before turning on any connected equipment. Doing
so will avoid damaging to the other equipment.
so will avoid damaging to the other equipment.
Also, when connecting or disconnecting cables to or
from the X-34’s input or output jacks, set all faders
to “0.”
to “0.”
* When the AC adapter is connected to an AC outlet, it
will continue to draw a small amount of power even
if the switch is set to off (STANDBY).
if the switch is set to off (STANDBY).
If you will not be using the X-34 for an extended
period of time, be sure to unplug the AC adapter from
the outlet.
the outlet.
Location
Avoid using the X-34 in the following locations:
* Locations of extreme low or high temperatures, or
subject to extreme changes in temperature.
* Locations with excessive moisture or dust.
* Locations subject to direct sunlight for an extended
period of time, or near a stove or other source of
heat.
heat.
* Locations subject to fluctuations in electrical voltage.
* Unstable locations or locations subject to heavy
vibration.
* Near strong magnetic fields (e.g., on top of a television
or speaker).
Table of Contents
Precautions (please read before use) ...................... 3
Cautions for Using the X-34 ....................................... 4
Before Using the X-34 ................................................. 4
Cautions for Using the X-34 ....................................... 4
Before Using the X-34 ................................................. 4
<Top Panel> .................................................................... 5
<Front panel> ................................................................. 7
<Rear Panel> .................................................................. 8
<Front panel> ................................................................. 7
<Rear Panel> .................................................................. 8
Basic Operation: “Let’s Record!” .............................. 9
Initial mode after the X-34 is powered on: ..................... 9
Initial setup of the X-34 ................................................... 9
Remember the following before you start to record! .... 10
Initial setup of the X-34 ................................................... 9
Remember the following before you start to record! .... 10
Basic Recording - 1 (Recording from the front
panel LINE IN/INSERT jack) ...................................... 12
Basic Recording - 2 (Recording with the rear
panel MIC IN jack) ...................................................... 14
panel LINE IN/INSERT jack) ...................................... 12
Basic Recording - 2 (Recording with the rear
panel MIC IN jack) ...................................................... 14
Basic Playback Procedure ............................................. 15
Multitrack Recording ................................................. 16
Overdubbing ................................................................... 16
<Overdubbing Electric Bass in Track 2 While
Listening to the Drum Track> ....................................... 16
Mixdown (Track Down mode) ....................................... 18
<Overdubbing Electric Bass in Track 2 While
Listening to the Drum Track> ....................................... 16
Mixdown (Track Down mode) ....................................... 18
Advanced Operation ................................................. 19
Punch In/Out Recording ................................................ 19
Ping-pong Recording
(Using the Auto Bounce Function) ................................ 21
Tape Sync ....................................................................... 23
Recording a sync signal ................................................. 24
Applying Effects ............................................................. 25
Troubleshooting ............................................................. 27
Maintenance ................................................................... 28
Block Diagram ............................................................... 28
Specifications ................................................................. 29
Declaration of EC Directive .......................................... 30
The Affect of Immunity on This Equipment ................... 30
FOSTEX DISTRIBUTORS LIST IN EUROPE .............. 30
Ping-pong Recording
(Using the Auto Bounce Function) ................................ 21
Tape Sync ....................................................................... 23
Recording a sync signal ................................................. 24
Applying Effects ............................................................. 25
Troubleshooting ............................................................. 27
Maintenance ................................................................... 28
Block Diagram ............................................................... 28
Specifications ................................................................. 29
Declaration of EC Directive .......................................... 30
The Affect of Immunity on This Equipment ................... 30
FOSTEX DISTRIBUTORS LIST IN EUROPE .............. 30