Fostex MR-8MKII User manual

Owner’s Manual
Digital Multitracker
434190
8588072000
<Important!>
Thank you very much for purchasing the MR-
8mkII. Before using the unit, read “Preparation”
on page 17 and the following pages.
The “Preparation” section includes the important
information for using the unit for the first time,
such as “Preparation of recording media”,
“Preparation of power supply”, etc.

2
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Safety instructions/Contents)
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.
CAUTION
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
12. Power Cord Protection - Power supply cords should be
routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched
by items placed upon or against them, paying particular
attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and
the point where they exit from the appliance.
13. Cleaning - The appliance should be cleaned only as
recommended by the manufacturer.
14. Nonuse Periods - The power cord of the appliance should
be unplugged from the outlet when left unused for a long
period of time.
15. ObjectandLiquidEntry-Careshouldbetakensothatobjects
donotfallandliquidsarenotspilledintotheenclosurethrough
openings.
16. Damage Requiring Service - The appliance should be
serviced by qualified service personnel when:
A. The power supply cord or the plug has been damaged; or
B. Objectshavefallen,orliquidhasbeenspilledinto theappliance;
or
C. The appliance has been exposed to rain; or
D. The appliance does not appear to operate normally or
exhibits a marked change in performance; or
E. The appliance has been dropped, or the enclosure damaged.
17. Servicing - The user should not attempt to service the
appliancebeyondthatdescribedintheoperatinginstructions.
All other servicing should be referred to qualified service
personnel.
18. The appliance should be situated away from drops of water
or spray of water.
19. Objects containing liquid such as vase must not be put on
the appliance.
20. The appliance is not completely isolated from the power
supply even if the power switch is at off position.
21. Apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing
and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be
placed on the apparatus.
22. Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
23. An appliance with a protective earth terminal should be
connected to a mains outlet with a protective earth
connection.
24. An appliance should be placed in a position where an AC
plug / inlet can be easily pulled out by hand.
25. Main plugisusedasthedisconnectiondevice.Itshallremain
readily operable and should not be obstructed during
intendeduse. To becompletely disconnected theapparatus
from supply mains, the mains plug of the apparatus shall be
disconnected from the mains socket outlet completely.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an
equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the
presence of uninsulated "dangerous voltage" within the
product's enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to
constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is
intended to alert the user to the presence of important
operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
CAUTION:
TO PREVENT ELECTRIC SHOCK, MATCH WIDE BLADE
OF PLUG TO WIDE SLOT, FULLY INSERT.
ATTENTION:
POUR EVITER LES CHOCS ELECTRIQUES,
INTRODUIRE LA LAME LA PLUS LARGE DE LA FICHE
DANS LA BORNE CORRESPONDANTE DE LA PRISE ET
POUSSER JUSQU' AU FOND.
An appliance and cart combination should be moved with
care. Quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces
may cause the appliance and cart combination to overturn.
7. Wallor CeilingMounting -The applianceshouldbemounted
to a wall or ceiling only as recommended by the
manufacturer.
8. Ventilation - The appliance should be situated so that its
location or position dose not interfere with its proper
ventilation. Forexample,theapplianceshouldnotbesituated
on a bed, sofa, rug, or similar surface that may block the
ventilation openings; or, placed in a built-in installation, such
as a bookcase or cabinet that may impede the flow of air
through the ventilation openings.
9. Heat - The appliance should be situated away from heat
sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other
appliances (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
10. Power Sources - The appliance should be connected to a
power supply only of the type described in the operating
instructions or as marked on the appliance.
11. Grounding or Polarization - The precautions that should be
taken so that the grounding or polarization means of an
appliance is not defeated.
"WARNING"
"TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC
SHOCK, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS APPLIANCE TO RAIN
OR MOISTURE."
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read Instructions - All the safety and operating instructions
should be read before the appliance is operated.
2. Retain Instructions - The safety and operating instructions
should be retained for future reference.
3. Heed Warnings - All warnings on the appliance and in the
operating instructions should be adhered to.
4. FollowInstructions-Alloperatinganduseinstructionsshould
be followed.
5. Water and Moisture - The appliance should not be used
nearwater- for example, nearabathtub, washbowl, kitchen
sink, laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming
pool, and the like.
6. Carts and Stands - The appliance should be used only with
a cart or stand that is recommended by the manufacturer.

3
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Safety instructions/Contents)
Important Safety Instructions
1) Read these instructions.
2) Keep these instructions.
3) Heed all warnings.
4) Follow all instructions.
5) Do not use this apparatus near water.
6) Clean only with dry cloth.
7) Do not block any ventilation openings.
Install in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
8) Do not install near any heat sources such
as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or
otherapparatus(including amplifiers) that
produce heat.
9) Do not defeat the safety purpose of the
polarized or grounding-type plug.
A polarized plug has two blades with one
wider than the other. A grounding type
plughastwo blades and athirdgrounding
prong. The wide blade or the third prong
are provided for your safety.
If the provided plug does not fit into your
outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10) Protectthepower cord frombeingwalked
on or pinched particularly at plugs,
convenience receptacles, and the point
where they exit from the apparatus.
11) Only use attachments/accessories
specified by the manufacturer.
12) Use only with the cart, stand, tripod,
bracket, or table specified by the
manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus.
When a cart is used, use caution when
moving the cart/apparatus combination
to avoid injury from tip-over.
13) Unplug this apparatus during lightning
storms or when unused for long periods
of time.
14) Refer all servicing to qualified service
personnel.Servicing is requiredwhen the
apparatus has been damaged in any
way, such as power-supply cord or plug
is damaged, liquid has been spilled or
objectshave fallen intotheapparatus, the
apparatus has been exposed to rain or
moisture, does not operate normally, or
has been dropped.

4
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Safety instructions/Contents)
Readthischapterfirst!................................................................................................................9
Introduction..........................................................................................................................10
MR-8mkIImainfeatures......................................................................................................10
Precautionsbeforeusing...................................................................................................11
About power supply ...................................................................................................11
Precautions upon installing the MR-8mkII .............................................................11
Notes on repair ...........................................................................................................11
About copyrights ........................................................................................................11
About damages ...........................................................................................................11
Note on audio interruption .......................................................................................11
Notes on USB connection with Mac OS ....................................................................11
ThebasicsoftheMR-8mkII................................................................................................12
Recording method ......................................................................................................12
About song ...................................................................................................................13
Remain (recordable space left on the card) ...........................................................13
Time base .....................................................................................................................14
Input and repro monitor ...........................................................................................14
TRIM control ................................................................................................................15
Preparation.................................................................................................................................17
Preparationofpowersupply..............................................................................................18
Preparing the AC adaptor ..........................................................................................18
Preparing batteries .....................................................................................................18
Preparationof recordingmedia.........................................................................................19
About song modes ......................................................................................................19
About recording time of a card ................................................................................19
Handling of CompactFlashTM Card ...........................................................................20
Turning on the power ................................................................................................21
When a formatted card is inserted ...............................................................21
When an unformatted is inserted ..................................................................21
Backlight facility .........................................................................................................22
Low battery indication ...............................................................................................22
Turn off the power .....................................................................................................22
Creatinganewsong............................................................................................................23
Table of contents
Namesand functions................................................................................................................25
Toppanel1 ............................................................................................................................26
Toppanel2 ............................................................................................................................27
Rearpanel.............................................................................................................................29
Sidepanel.............................................................................................................................30
Bottompanel .......................................................................................................................30
LCDdisplay..........................................................................................................................31
Home screen ................................................................................................................31
Selecting a time base mode ......................................................................................32

5
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Safety instructions/Contents)
Inputconnection ..................................................................................................................36
Aboutthe[INPUTASELECT] switch................................................................................37
Selectablerecordingtracks................................................................................................37
Recordingontoasingletrack............................................................................................38
Preparation for recording .........................................................................................38
Starting recording ......................................................................................................39
Playing back the recorded track ...............................................................................39
Undoing recording (undo/redo) .............................................................................39
Recordingonto two trackssimultaneously....................................................................40
Preparation for recording .........................................................................................40
Starting recording ......................................................................................................41
Playing back recorded tracks ....................................................................................41
Undoing recording (undo/redo) .............................................................................41
Overdubbingbasics............................................................................................................42
Preparation for recording .........................................................................................42
Adjusting the recording levels while listening to track 1 .....................................43
Starting recording ......................................................................................................43
Playing back recorded track .....................................................................................43
Undoing recording (undo/redo) .............................................................................43
Basicmixdown.....................................................................................................................44
Advancedplaybackandlocate functions ..............................................................................45
3xcueing..............................................................................................................................46
Playbackbetween LOCATEAandBpoints .....................................................................46
Playmode..............................................................................................................................47
Selecting a play mode ................................................................................................47
Auto play mode ...........................................................................................................48
Auto return mode .......................................................................................................48
Loop mode ...................................................................................................................48
Loop function in auto punch in/out mode ........................................49
Locatefunction....................................................................................................................50
Time locate ..................................................................................................................50
Locating to the beginning (ABS ZERO) of a song ...............................50
Locating to the recording end point (REC END) of a song ...............50
Locating to the LOCATE A or LOCATE B point ........................................................51
Setting the LOCATE A or LOCATE B point ..........................................51
Locating ...................................................................................................52
Punchin/out...............................................................................................................................53
Punchin/out using the keysonthetoppanel..................................................................54
Punchin/outusingthefootswitch.....................................................................................55
Basicrecordingoperations.....................................................................................................35
Adjusting the display contrast .................................................................................32
MENU mode screen ....................................................................................................33
Warning message .......................................................................................................33

6
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Safety instructions/Contents)
Trackbouncing..........................................................................................................................65
Preliminaryknowledge.......................................................................................................66
Track bouncing example ...........................................................................................66
Signal flow of track bouncing ...................................................................................67
Bouncingtracks1through4totracks5/6........................................................................68
Rehearsal of track bouncing .....................................................................................68
Actual track bouncing ...............................................................................................69
Checking the bounced signals on tracks 5/6 .........................................................69
Bouncingtracks1through6totracks7/8........................................................................70
Rehearsal of track bouncing .....................................................................................70
Actual track bouncing ...............................................................................................71
Checking the bounced signals on tracks 7/8 .........................................................71
Bouncingtracks1through8toanewsong .....................................................................72
Rehearsal of track bouncing .....................................................................................72
Actual track bouncing ...............................................................................................73
Bouncingthedesiredpartofasong.................................................................................74
Rhythmguidefunction.............................................................................................................75
Usingtherhythmguidefunction.......................................................................................76
Setting the time signature and tempo .....................................................................76
Creatingtheconductormap..............................................................................................78
Setting the signature map .........................................................................................78
Editing a time signature event .............................................................80
Deleting an unnecessary time signature event .................................80
Editing the bar offset ..................................................................................................81
Setting the tempo map ...............................................................................................82
Editing a tempo event ...........................................................................84
Deleting an unnecessary tempo event ...............................................84
Usingeffects..............................................................................................................................59
Usingtheinserteffects.......................................................................................................60
Mic simulation effects ................................................................................................60
Amp simulation effects ..............................................................................................60
Usingthereverbordelay....................................................................................................61
Selecting an effect type ..............................................................................................61
Selecting a delay type ................................................................................................61
Adjusting the delay/reverb time .............................................................................62
Adjusting the effect send levels ................................................................................62
Usingthemasteringeffects...............................................................................................63
Selecting the desired effect type ..............................................................................63
Autopunchin/out.................................................................................................................56
Setting the punch-in and punch-out points ...........................................................56
Rehearsal for auto punch in/out ..............................................................................57
Actual auto punch in/out ..........................................................................................58

7
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Safety instructions/Contents)
MIDIsynchronization................................................................................................................85
SynchronizationusingMTC ...............................................................................................86
Connection ..................................................................................................................86
Settings of the MR-8mkII and MIDI sequencer .......................................................86
MIDI sync/MTC frame rate settings .........................................................................86
SynchronizationusingMIDI clock.....................................................................................87
Connection ..................................................................................................................87
Settings of the MR-8mkII and MIDI sequencer .......................................................87
Songmanagement....................................................................................................................89
Selectingthe desired song.................................................................................................90
Editingasong name ............................................................................................................91
Deletinganunnecessarysong..........................................................................................92
Protectingasong .................................................................................................................93
Deletingan unusedWAVfile inasong .............................................................................94
Trackdataediting......................................................................................................................95
Erasingtrackdata................................................................................................................96
Copying/pastingtrackdata ................................................................................................97
Movingtrackdata.................................................................................................................99
Exchangingwholetrackdata...........................................................................................101
Part dataediting.......................................................................................................................103
Playing back the “part” (Between LOCATE A and LOCATE B) to be edited .104
Changing an edit point during editing .................................................................104
Editingthepart(s) ..............................................................................................................105
Copying/pastingthepart(s)-1..........................................................................................106
Copying/pastingthepart(s)-2..........................................................................................108
Copying to the clipboard ........................................................................................108
Pasting clipboard data .............................................................................................110
Movingthe part(s).............................................................................................................111
Exchangethepart(s) .........................................................................................................113
Dataexporttoapersonalcomputer .....................................................................................115
WAV fileconversion...........................................................................................................116
Enabling the file conversion ...................................................................................116
Procedure of file conversion ...................................................................................116
Exportingdata to a personalcomputer..........................................................................118
Connection to a personal computer ......................................................................118
Notes on exporting a file .........................................................................................118
Exporting a WAV file to a personal computer ......................................................119

8
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Safety instructions/Contents)
Troubleforrecording.........................................................................................................140
Troubleforplayback..........................................................................................................141
Troubleforeffect................................................................................................................141
TroubleforUSB connection.............................................................................................142
Troublesforpowersupply................................................................................................142
Othertroubles.....................................................................................................................142
Troubleshooting......................................................................................................................139
Specifications.....................................................................................................................144
Physicaldimensions.........................................................................................................145
Blockdiagram....................................................................................................................146
MIDIimplementationchart ...............................................................................................148
Index....................................................................................................................................149
MR-8mkIISpecifications........................................................................................................143
CompactFlashTM Cardformatting....................................................................................132
Peakhold time setting.......................................................................................................133
Pre-roll/post-rolltime setting ...........................................................................................134
AutoDeletefunctionon/off...............................................................................................135
Beatresolution modeon/off.............................................................................................136
Phantompoweron/off.......................................................................................................137
Initializing the MR-8mkII ..............................................................................................138
Otherfunctions........................................................................................................................131
Protectingthecard............................................................................................................120
Archivingasong ................................................................................................................121
Burningan audioCD...............................................................................................................123
Readthispagebefore using ............................................................................................124
CD-R/RW drives which can be connected to the MR-8mkII .............................124
Usable discs ...............................................................................................................124
Notes on handling of discs ......................................................................................124
Notes on care of discs ...............................................................................................124
ConnectinganexternalCD-R/RWdrive.........................................................................125
Song data which can be recorded to a CD-R/RW disc ........................................125
ProcedureofcreatinganaudioCD.................................................................................126
ViewingTOC........................................................................................................................129
Viewing TOC after completing “CD Burn” ............................................................129
Viewing TOC after completing “CD Finalize” .......................................................130

9
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Read this chapter first!)
Read this chapter first!
This chapter describes precautions before using, as well as features
and basic knowledge of the MR-8mkII.
To understand the MR-8mkII features and basic functions, read this
chapter before using.

10
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Read this chapter first!)
Thank you very much for purchasing the Fostex MR-8mkII digital multitracker.
The MR-8mkII is a digital multitracker which records and plays back audio on a CompactFlashTM
Card. You can record audio at 44.1 kHz/16 bits (in the normal mode) or 22.05 kHz/16 bits (in
the LP mode). Up to two tracks can be recorded simultaneously.
The MR-8mkII is also equipped with an 8-channel digital mixer, digital effects including the
delay/reverb, mastering effects and insert effects (simulation effects). It allows you to carry out
all the process for digital multitrack recording including overdubbing, track bouncing and
mixdown within the digital domain, ensuring no loss of sound quality.
Read this manual thoroughly for using all functions the MR-8mkII provides correctly.
• You can record high quality audio to the
built-in high performance CompactFlashTM
Card. You can also edit recorded audio later
without sound deterioration.
Up to 99 songs can be recorded.
• Provides two analog input channels and
up to two tracks can be recorded
simultaneously.
• You can bounce all eight tracks to a new
song, which is automatically created in the
bouncing process.
• An ASP digital effect processor (delay/
reverb) with the algorithm newly
developed by Fostex is built in, allowing
effect processing to tracks 1 through 4
during track bouncing.
In addition, the MR-8mkII also provides
insert effects for microphone and
amplifier simulation for coloring sounds.
• The dedicated mastering effects are built
in for the stereo buss, allowing you to
process sounds during track bouncing or
final mixdown.
• The adoption of self-illuminated keys
allows intuitive operation.
• User-friendly LCD screen configuration
allows you to make recording intuitively.
• Phantom power is built in, allowing direct
connection of condenser microphones.
• The rhythm guide function is provided.
You can make global time signature/tempo
setting for a simple song or create a
conductor map for a more complicate song,
and output the guide click.
• Song data (on mono WAV files on tracks 7
and 8) mastered by the MR-8mkII can be
converted to a stereo WAV file easily.
You can export the converted file to a
personal computer and create an audio CD
using the CD burn function of the PC.
You can also create an audio CD using an
external CD-R/RW drive connected via the
[USB HOST] port of the MR-8mkII.
Introduction
MR-8mkII main features
• The whole or a part of track data can be
edited (i.e. copied, pasted, moved,
exported, exchanged and erased).
• The [MIDI OUT] port is provided.
You can synchronize the MR-8mkII with
external MIDI devices (MIDI sequencer, etc.)
using MTC or MIDI clock.
• A large 132 x 64 dot graphic LCD display
allows you to check the recorder status and
various settings easily.
• Built-in compact and high quality
microphone allows you to record
microphone sound without an external
microphone.
• Two ways of receiving power. You can drive
the MR-8mkII by batteries (AA-type) or
from the supplied AC adaptor (AD-12A).
<Important! >: Song data recorded in the
LP mode cannot be burned to a CD-R/RW
disc in the audio CD (CD-DA format) us-
ing an external CD-R/RW drive.

11
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Read this chapter first!)
About power supply
• The MR-8mkII runs on the supplied AC
adaptor (Model AD-12A) or batteries (six AA
batteries). When running on the AC adaptor,
Be sure to connect the MR-8mkII to the power
supply specified in the Specifications section
of this owner’s manual. Do not use an AC
outlet of any other voltage. When running
on batteries, use alkaline batteries. Do not
use manganese batteries.
• Do not connect the MR-8mkII to the same AC
outlet to which devices that could generate
noise (such as a large motor or dimmer), or
the devices that consume a large amount of
power (such as an air conditioning system or
large electric heater) are connected.
• If you use the MR-8mkII in an area with a
different power voltage, first consult your
dealer or the nearest Fostex service station.
• You do not use the MR-8mkII for a long time,
we recommend unplugging the AC adaptor
from the AC outlet.
• It is very dangerous to use a power cord of
the AC adaptor that is frayed or damage.
In such a case, stop using the MR-8mkII
immediately and ask your dealer to repair
the cord.
<Important! >: Model name, power require-
ment, serial number and other informa-
tion for the MR-8mkII are shown at the
bottom of the unit.
Precautions upon installing the MR-8mkII
• Do not install the MR-8mkII in locations
subject to the following:
* Extremely high or low temperature, or
significant changes in temperature.
* Excessive humidity or dust.
* Excessive changes in power supply
voltage.
* Unstable or significantly vibrating or
shaking surfaces.
* Near a strong magnetic field (such as a
TV or speaker).
Notes on repair
• The MR-8mkII does not use any parts that
user can repair easily. Contact your dealer
or the nearest Fostex service station to ask
about repairs.
• Use the original packing carton of the
MR-8mkII when you transport or send the
MR-8mkII to the dealer or Fostex service
station for repair.
If you have discarded the packing carton,
pack the MR-8mkII using shock absorbing
materials. Fostex is not responsible for
malfunction or damage due to incomplete
packaging or caused during transportation.
• Because the MR-8mkII is a consumer
product, Fostex does not offer on-site service
or provide a loaner unit while your MR-8mkII
is under repair.
About copyrights
• It is prohibited by law to use any part of a CD
recording or video images or audio data for
which copyright is possessed by a third party
for commercial purposes such as contents,
broadcasts, sales, or distribution-any purpose
other than for your personal pleasure.
About damages
• Fostex is not responsible for any "direct
damage" or "indirect damage" caused by
using the MR-8mkII.
Notes on audio interruption
• If you make recording or editing to a song
many times, audio may be occasionally
interrupted when the song is played back,
due to data fragmentation. Note that this is
not a malfunction.
Note on USB connection with Mac OS
• Before you connect the MR-8mkII to a
Macintosh computer, make sure that the OS
is Mac OS X or higher. The MR-8mkII
supports only Mac OS X or higher. If you
connect the MR-8mkII to a Macintosh
computer with Mac OS lower than "OS X",
song data on the MR-8mkII may be damaged.
MODEL MR-8MK2
DIGITAL MULTITRACKER
FOSTEX CO.
INPUT : 12VDC
SERIAL NO.
MADE IN CHINA
Precautions before using

12
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Read this chapter first!)
This section describes the basics of the MR-8mkII you should know before using the MR-8mkII.
Recording method
The MR-8mkII is fitted with a CompactFlashTM Card. Songs are recorded on a CompactFlashTM
Card along with the ABS time (from 00m 00s 000ms to 99m 59s 999ms).
The ABS time shows the absolute time on a CompactFlashTM Card and you can start recording
from any desired time within the range between 00m 00s 000ms and 99m 59s 999ms ABS time.
As the MR-8mkII does not consume the card space when no audio is recorded, you can record
audio effectively, while the recordable time for a tape recorder depends on the tape length.
MAX
MIN
MAX
MIN
REC SELECT
1 2 3 4 5/6 7/8 MASTER
RL
PAN
LR LR LR
010
EFFECT SEND
100100100
BRIT STACK US METAL 60'S COMBO
MIC
TUBECONDENSERDYNAMIC
INPUTA
LINE MIC MIN MAX LINE MIC
DISTORTION
GUITAR
UNBAL
BAL
UNBAL
/GUITAR
PEAK
TRIM TRIM
BAL
INPUT A INPUT B
PHONES VOL
LST OUT R
2
PHONES
1
MIN MAX
EFFECT
REVERB/DELAY TIME
MIN MAX
HALLROOM
PLATE DELAY
LOCATE REC END
A-B PLAY
LOCATEABS ZERO
DELETE+-_0YZ9VWX8STU7
PLAYSTOPRECORD REWIND F FWD
PQR6
UNDO/REDO
PLAY MODE STORE
A / IN B / OUT
LOCATE
MNO5JKL4
BRIGHTNATURALPOWERFUL MENU/ENTER
MASTERING
GHI3DEF2ABC1
7/8 WAV FILE
STEREO
1-4
1-6 NEW
SONG
1-8
GUIDE
RHYTHM CONTRAST TIME BASE
SELECT
BOUNCE
INPUT A SELECT
AUTO PUNCH
5/6
7/8
AMP SIMULATION
MIC SIMULATION
PEAK
COMPACTFLASH CARD
The beginning of a song
0m00s000ms
(ABS ZERO) 05m00s000ms 10m00s000ms 15m00s000ms (REC END) 99m59s999ms
Recorded area Recorded areaNon-recorded area Non-recorded area
......
You can start recording from any desired time within the range
between 00m00s000ms and 99m59s999ms ABS time.
0m00s000ms 99m59s999ms
Non-recorded area (remain) ......
5-minute recording 5-minute recording
CompactFlashTM Card
The basics of the MR-8mkII

13
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Read this chapter first!)
About song
To understand songs, imagine separated rooms as shown below. Each room can be regarded as
a song. With the MR-8mkII, you can create up to 99 rooms (songs) on the CompactFlashTM Card
(although the available space may limit the number of songs).
Recorded track data is stored in a song as mono WAV
files, as shown below.
Each song is independent on a CompactFlashTM Card and you can record, play back or edit a song
without affecting other songs. You can give a desired song name for managing recorded songs
(see pages 23 and 91).
Recorded track data is stored in a song as mono WAV files.
The MR-8mkII can convert the two WAV files recorded on tracks 7 and 8 (L and R) to a stereo
WAV file (see page 115).
You can export the converted stereo WAV file to your USB-connected personal computer, and
use the file by a music software application or make an original audio CD on the computer using
a CD burn software application. You can also burn an audio CD by using an external CD-R/RW
drive connected via the [USB HOST] port of the MR-8mkII (see page 115 and 123).
Song01
Track 1 Track 2 Track 8
Song01
Song02
Song03
Song04
Song05
Song99
Song98
Remain (recordable space left on the CompactFlashTM Card)
"Remain" shows how much time you can further record audio data to the available space left on
the CompactFlashTM Card.
As described earlier, the MR-8mkII stripes ABS time from 0m 00s 000ms to 99m 59s 999ms at
maximum for each song. However, the remaining time (= available recording time left) depends
on the available space on the CompactFlashTM Card in actual use. The remaining time is shown as
in the screen example below during recording or record standby. Note that it shows the remain-
ing time for recording onto a mono track.
A "mono" track means a single track. Therefore, you can calculate the remaining time for record-
ing to more than one track by dividing the displayed time by the number of tracks. Note that the
remaining time shown on the screen is an approximate time.
Remain value
WAV files

14
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Read this chapter first!)
Time base
Input monitor and repro monitor
The term, "time base", is used as the reference of recorder position information.
Using the [TIME BASE SELECT] key, you can select from among two time base modes: ABS time
and bar/beat mode. Each screen example below shows the recorder is located at the beginning of
a song in each time base mode.
<Time (ABS time) mode> <Bar/beat mode>
Time (ABS time) mode:
ABS time stands for Absolute time, which is "striped" on the CompactFlashTM Card when creating
a song. It starts from 0m 00s 000ms (=ABS zero, the beginning of a song) and ends by 99m 59s
999ms at maximum.
Bar/beat mode:
The bar/beat/clock information is created according to the internal tempo map.
The ABS zero position is set to "bar -2/beat 1/clk 000" by default (this is called "bar offset").
The MR-8mkII determines the bar/beat/clock value in a song in referenced to the bar offset, as
well as the time signature map and tempo map. You can set the bar offset between bar 1 to bar
-8 via the menu mode (see page 81). The figure below shows the relation between two time base
modes.
Each of the MR-8mkII tracks has two output modes: repro monitor and input monitor.
In the repro monitor mode, the track playback signal is output. So if you want to listen to the
track playback sound, select the repro monitor mode.
In the input monitor mode, the input signal fed to the track is output. So you can check the level
of the input signal to be recorded.
To enter a MR-8mkII track to input monitor mode, press the appropriate [REC SELECT] key to
arm the track (i.e. make the track record-ready), then press only the [RECORD] key to enter the
"RECORD READY" mode or press both the [RECORD] and [PLAY] keys simultaneously to start
recording.
Bar/beat mode
The beginning of a song
0m00s000ms
(ABS ZERO) 0m03s000ms 0m06s000ms
1bar 1 000clk 3bar 1 000clk
-2bar 1 000clk
ABS time mode
Input signals for
recorder tracks Output signals from
recorder tracks
Track 1
Track 5
Track 6
Track 7
Track 8
Playback signal (repro monitor)
Playback signal (repro monitor)
Playback signal (repro monitor)
Playback signal (repro monitor)
Playback signal (repro monitor)
Track 3 READY
Track 4 READY
Input signal (input monitor)
Input signal (input monitor)
Track 2 Playback signal (repro monitor)

15
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Read this chapter first!)
[TRIM] control
You must pay great attention to the [TRIM] control adjustment when recording to the MR-8mkII.
The analog signal received at each input ([INPUT A] and [INPUT B]) is sent to the TRIM control,
by which the signal level fed to the A/D converter of the MR-8mkII is controlled.
You can check this level by the PEAK indicator. If the level is too high, the PEAK indicator lights,
while you may hear the sound distorted or noisy. This distortion (noise) generated at this stage
cannot be eliminated, therefore, adjust the TRIM control properly so that the PEAK indicator
does not light at the loudest part of the input signal.
BRIT STACK US METAL 60'S COMBO
MIC
TUBECONDENSERDYNAMIC
INPUTA
LINE MIC MIN MAX LINE MIC
DISTORTION
GUITAR
UNBAL
BAL
UNBAL
/GUITAR
PEAK
TRIM TRIM
BAL
INPUT A INPUT B
PHONES VOL
LST OUT R
2
PHONES
1
MIN MAX
EFFECT
REVERB/DELAY TIME
INPUT A SELECT
AMP SIMULATION
MIC SIMULATION
PEAK [TRIM] control
PEAK LED
Clipping level
Clipping level
Proper level The level is too high.

16
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Read this chapter first!)

17
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Preparation)
Preparation
This chapter describes preparation for recording, playback and ed-
iting using the MR-8mkII. The chapter is comprised of the following
sections: "Preparation of recording media", "Preparation of power
supply" and "Creating a new song". Read this chapter before using
the MR-8mkII for the first time.

18
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Preparation)
The MR-8mkII can run on the supplied AC adaptor (Model AD-12A) or alkaline batteries. When
preparing power supply, make sure that the MR-8mkII [POWER] switch is set to off.
The battery compartment is located on the bot-
tom of the MR-8mkII. Install batteries correctly
by following the procedure below.
<Note>: No battery is supplied with the MR-8mkII.
Purchase 6 size AA alkaline batteries. Do not use
manganese batteries.
1) Place the MR-8mkII upside-down on a soft
surface (such as on a soft cloth).
2) Remove the battery compartment cover on the
bottom by pushing the tab in the direction of the
arrow in the figure below and lifting up the cover.
<Notes on batteries>
* Do not leave exhausted batteries in the battery
compartment. Old batteries may leak caustic
chemicals, which causes trouble of the unit.
We recommend removing batteries even if they
are new when you do not use the MR-8mkII for
a long period of time.
* Do not mix old and new batteries together.
3) Install batteries as shown below.
Make sure to install batteries in the correct
direction.
4) Place back the battery compartment cover to the
original position.
OPEN
Model AD-12A
[DC IN] connector
<Note>: If you connect the AC adaptor to the MR-
8mkII while batteries are housed in the battery
box, the MR-8mkII runs on the AC adaptor. If you
disconnect the AC adaptor in this condition, the
MR-8mkII switches to run on batteries.
Preparation of power supply
Preparing the AC adaptor Preparing batteries
<Important!>: Use only the supplied AC adaptor.
Do not use an AC adaptor which has different volt-
age or polarity characteristics.
Connect the plug of the supplied AC adaptor to
the [DC IN] connector on the MR-8mkII rear
panel firmly.
After making connection above, connect the AC
adaptor to the AC outlet of appropriate voltage.
AC outlet
POWER USB FOOT SW
ON
DC IN LIGHT
OFF
12V
DC IN
12V
The continuous usable
time is approximately four
hours. However, the ac-
tual usable time may dif-
fer depending on the con-
dition in which the MR-
8mkII is used.
The polarity of the supplied AC adaptor is cen-
ter plus/outer minus.

19
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Preparation)
The MR-8mkII has two song modes: Normal and
LP modes. You can choose the desired mode
when making recording.
The Normal mode provides higher audio qual-
ity, while the LP mode provides longer record-
ing time (see the table below).
The song mode can be set for each song. Each
time you create a new song on a CompactFlashTM
card, you can set the desired song mode.
If a formatted card is supplied with your MR-
8mkII, a song of the Normal mode is created on
the card. When you use an unformatted card
(regardless of whether it is supplied with the
MR-8mkII or it is purchased separately), you can
set the song mode when formatting the card (see
page 23).
The MR-8mkII uses a CompactFlashTM card as a recording medium (see the figure below).
In some countries, a formatted (or unformatted) CompactFlashTM card is supplied with the MR-
8mkII, whereas in other countries, no CompactFlashTM card is supplied with the MR-8mkII.
COMPACTFLASH CARD
<Note>: Only use operation confirmed CompactFlashTM cards. If you use a card which is not
operation confirmed, the MR-8mkII may malfunction.
About song modes
Mono
128MB
256MB
512MB
24 (48)
48 (96)
96 (193)
Image
Capacity 2-track
12 (24)
24 (48)
48 (96)
4-track
6 (12)
12 (24)
24 (48)
6-track
4 (8)
8 (16)
16 (32)
8-track
3 (6)
6 (12)
12 (24)
* Each time value above shows an approximate value (in
minutes).
* Eachvalue in parenthesesshowsa valueinthe LPmode.
Preparation of recording media
Fostex website:
http://www.fostex.com
The total recordable time of a CompactFlashTM
card depends on the capacity of the card as well
as the song mode of each song.
The following table shows the approximate re-
cordable time (in minutes) for both the Normal
and LP modes (each value in parentheses shows
the time in the LP mode). Use the table as refer-
ence when you purchase a card.
We recommend using a CompactFlashTM card of
128 MB or higher capacity for the MR-8mkII.
About recording time of a card
Normal
mode
LP mode
Provides higher audio quality at 44.1-kHz/
16-bit. This is the default setting.
Provides longer recording time with 22.05-
kHz/16-bit audio.
<About operation-confirmed CompactFlashTM cards>
You can get the information of operation confirmed cards from your dealer or the
nearest Fostex service station or the Fostex website (see below).
<Note>: CompactFlash is a trademark of San Disk Corporation in the USA and is licensed to CFA
(CompactFlashTM Association).
<Note>: Song data recorded in the LP mode can-
not be burned to a CD-R/RW disc in the audio CD
(CD-DA format) using an external CD-R/RW drive.

20
MR-8mkII Owner’s Manual (Preparation)
<Important!>: When inserting or removing a card,
make sure that the power of the MR-8mkII is off.
If you insert or remove a card when the power is
on, the card may be damaged or the recorded
data may be destroyed.
<Important!>: Do not insert a card in the
wrong direction or push a card with excessive
force.
Card slot
How to remove a CompactFlashTM card
Place your fingertip to the protruding edge on
the rear side of the card and pull it forward gen-
tly.
How to insert a CompactFlashTM card
With the surface side up, insert a card gently
until it cannot go further.
<Handling of CompactFlashTM cards>
• Do not keep CF cards in the following
circumstances.
* In a moist or dusty place
* In a extremely hot place such as in front of
a heating appliance
* In the direct sunshine
* In the closed car in summer
* In a strong magnetic field or near a device
which generates a magnetic field
• Do not drop a card or give it a strong shock.
• Do not step on a card or put a heavy thing on
a card.
Handling of CompactFlashTM cards
MIDI OUTUSB HOSTCOMPACTFLASH CARD
COMPACTFLASH CARD
<Note>: When you set a card to the slot, insert
the card with the rear side down.
On the rear side, there is a small protruding edge
on which you can put your fingertip to pull out
the card, as shown in the figure below. Do not
insert a card upside down. Doing so may dam-
age the card.
Rear side
Inserted direction
Protruding edge