HHB Portadisc MDP500 User manual

HHB MDP500 PORTABLE MINIDISC RECORDER
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READY FOR ACTION
The HHB PORTADISC™ MDP500 is a compact
portable MiniDisc recorder, designed and
engineered without compromise to handle the
most demanding field recording applications.
Built on a rigid steel chassis and based around a
rugged, professional MD drive, the PORTADISC™
combines advanced sound quality with a full
complement of professional features,
comprehensive connectivity and flexible powering
options to create the world’s most advanced
professional portable MiniDisc recorder.
And like its legendary predecessor, the HHB
PORTADAT™, the new PORTADISC™ has been
developed in close consultation with leading
sound recordists and ENG professionals,
ensuring a recorder that handles and operates
impeccably in the field.
•Designed in consultation with leading sound
recordists and ENG professionals for use in
demanding field recording applications.
•Rugged, dependable professional MD drive –
not a consumer mechanism!
•Flexible powering options – NiMH rechargeable
batteries, standard AA alkaline batteries,
12–15V DC and AC mains power.
•Advanced ATRAC 4.5 recording algorithm
and 40 second memory buffer deliver high
quality, glitch-free recordings.
•First and only MD portable to feature a
USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface for
transferring audio to and from Windows-
based PCs and Macintosh computers.
•Comprehensive connectivity – high quality
balanced XLR mic inputs with switchable
48V phantom power, limiters and bass
roll-off, analogue line outputs, coaxial and
optical digital I/Os, parallel remote control.
•Large illuminated LCD display with wide
viewing angle.
•6 second pre-record buffer.
•Intuitive menu system with 5 User Set-Ups.
•On-board editing.
•Built-in SRC with digital sync recording.
•Supplied accessories include soft case,
carrying strap, NiMH battery caddy, spare
battery caddy, AC adaptor/charger and
HHB MD80 MiniDisc.
KEY FEATURES
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Record level controls are lockable, the phone level control
retracts and a Keyhold facility prohibits
accidental mis-operation during
recording. The main LCD display is
large and clear with switchable
illumination and, critically, can be
viewed from a wide range of
angles. 19 segment metering is
provided with switchable peak hold
and a margin indicator accurate in
1dB steps to -60dB. Headphone
monitoring is available in Stereo,
Mono-L, Mono-R and Both modes,
with an additional, mono internal
speaker provided for non-critical
monitoring. In the event of a
microphone or cable failure, the
PORTADISC™ even includes an on-
board microphone for back-up.
• 6 SECOND PRE-RECORD
BUFFER MEANS YOU’LL
NEVER MISS A TAKE
To ensure consistent, glitch-free recording on
the move, the PORTADISC™ features a 40
second memory buffer. To ensure that the
operator never misses a take, a pre-buffer
continuously records the 6 seconds of audio before
the Record switch is pressed while an Auto Start
feature with variable threshold makes the PORTADISC™
ideal for use in noise monitoring applications.
• CONFIGURED FOR THE WAY YOU WORK
Using a simple, intuitive menu system (see right), the
PORTADISC™ user can configure and store up to 5 User
Set-Ups selecting input sources, mic limiting / bass roll-off,
phantom power, headphone monitoring formats, time / date
display formats, auto track increment and threshold levels, etc.
COMPREHENSIVE CONNECTIVITY
• THE WORLD’S MOST ADVANCED
PORTABLE MINIDISC RECORDER
It’s no surprise that MiniDisc has become such a popular
format with journalists, broadcasters and sound recordists.
Inexpensive, durable and easy to handle, MD delivers up to
80 minutes of stereo digital recording (160 minutes of
mono) with the additional benefits of disc/track naming and
basic editing facilities.
Designed to optimise these advantages for field recording
applications, the HHB PORTADISC™ MDP500 is currently
the most advanced portable MiniDisc recorder available.
• EXCEPTIONAL SOUND QUALITY
Any early doubts about the sound quality of MiniDisc are
immediately dispelled by the PORTADISC™. Its advanced
V4.5 ATRAC recording algorithm combines with high
performance mic preamps, precision DACs and on-board
limiters and bass roll-off to deliver recordings of exceptional
quality.
• DEPENDABLE, PROFESSIONAL MD DRIVE
Similar attention has been paid to build quality. For maximum
reliability, the PORTADISC™ uses a dependable, professional
MD drive - not a low-cost consumer device, and the
recorder is housed in a tough, 1.2mm steel chassis with
transport keys and function buttons protected by a durable
rubber moulding.
Drawing on the experience gained during development of
the PORTADAT™ portable DAT recorder, HHB has, once
again, sought the advice of leading sound recordists and
ENG professionals to ensure that the PORTADISC™
handles perfectly in the field. Transport keys, record level
controls and all major functions are ideally located for
quick, easy access and menu structures are
straightforward and logical.
HHB PORTADISC™ MDP500 Th
• A FULL COMPLEMENT OF
ANALOGUE AND DIGITAL I/Os
Conveniently located on the side of the PORTADISC™,
a comprehensive range of connectivity includes
balanced XLR Mic/Line inputs, unbalanced
RCA/phono line outputs, and both coaxial and
optical SPDIF digital I/Os. Mic inputs feature
switchable Attenuation (0dB, -15dB, -30dB), Bass
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Recording from digital sources
is easy with a built-in sample rate
converter accepting 32 and 48kHz signals
and auto sync recording with CD and DAT IDs
converted automatically to MD tracks.
SC™ MDP500 The new standard in audio acquisition.
Roll-off (Off, 75Hz, 150Hz), Limiter (On, Off,
Ganged, Automatic Gain Control) and 48V
phantom power. Individual settings can be
stored as part of the PORTADISC’s 5 User
Set-Ups. Also located on the side panel are the
parallel remote control and headphone sockets.
The following headphone monitor modes can be
selected and stored in the User Set-Ups:
Stereo, Mono-Left, Mono-Right, Both.
•THE FIRST AND ONLY MD
PORTABLE WITH USB
Unique to the PORTADISC™ is a
USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface
enabling the transfer of files to and
from Windows-based PCs and Macintosh
computers. Complementing the basic
Divide/Combine/Move editing possible on the
In addition to disc and track naming, the
PORTADISC™ also provides basic editing allowing
the user to go directly to a particular point in a track,
combine two tracks together to make one, divide one
track into two, move tracks and erase tracks. Tracks
can be numbered manually during recording with the
Mark button, or automatically with the threshold level
variable from 30dB to 60dB in 10dB increments.
Tracks can be accessed directly using the AMS
Forward and Back keys.
For more sophisticated editing, see USB below.
• ON-BOARD EDITING
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•A LOGICAL MENU STRUCTURE
MAKES SET-UP EASY
A large illuminated display with a wide viewing angle makes it
easy to configure the PORTADISC’s 5 User Set-Ups, and to
display information while working in the field. There are four
main menu headings.
DISPLAY
Shows Track Number, Level Meters
and Battery Life, plus Track Time,
Disc Time, Disc Time Remaining,
Margin Indicator, Clock and Date.
INPUT
Used to select and set Source (Mic.
Line, Digital, Internal Mic, Off), Mic
Attenuation (0dB, -15dB, -30dB),
Bass Roll-off (Off, 75Hz, 150Hz),
Limiter (Off, Ganged, AGC, On), Phantom Power (On/Off)
and Digital Input (Coaxial, Optical, USB).
SET-UP
Used to set up Clock and Date, Date
Format (DD/MM/YY, MM/DD/YY,
YY/MM/DD), Peak Hold (Off, 1
Second, On) and Display Contrast.
SYSTEM
Used to set up Record Mode
(Stereo/Mono), Track Increment
(Auto/Manual), Threshold Level
(-30dB, -40dB, -50dB, -60dB), Auto
Start (Yes/No), Auto Cut (Yes/No),
Auto Pause (Yes/No), Pre-Record
(Yes/No), Headphone Monitor (Stereo,
Mono-L, Mono-R, Both), Repeat Mode
(Off, All, One, A-B), Digital Output
(On/Off) and Auto Power Down
(Yes/No).
udio acquisition.
PORTADISC™ itself, suitably
equipped journalists and sound
recordists can now record and edit
finished programmes and news
pieces in the field and transfer
them via e-mail or ISDN, or
write them to CD, etc.
POWER &
ACCESSORIES
A COMPLETE LOCATION RECORDING SYSTEM
SUPPLIED AS STANDARD
The HHB PORTADISC™ MDP500 is
supplied as standard with a
protective soft case and
carrying strap. The case
features a cable/mic
pouch, windows for the
transport keys and
front panel, plus a
sealable flap providing
access to all the main
connectors.
To ensure maximum flexibility when
recording on the move, the PORTADISC™ can be powered by
three separate sources, all of which are supplied as standard.
Rechargeable battery power is supplied by a caddy of 8 Nickel
Metal Hydride batteries which locates quickly and securely behind
a panel at the rear of the unit. Much less susceptible to the
‘Memory Effect’ associated with conventional Ni-Cads, the NiMH
batteries power the PORTADISC™ for in excess
of 3 hours in record and 3.5 hours in
playback. An AC mains adaptor / charger
(supplied) connects via the PORTADISC’s
DC input and recharges the batteries
while the recorder is in use. The DC
input can also be used to power the
PORTADISC™ from any 12-15V DC source.
In addition, a second, empty caddy is also
supplied which can be loaded either
with another set of rechargeable batteries or standard AA type
batteries. Depending on quality, the life of the alkaline batteries
is approximately 2.5 hours in record and 3 hours in playback.
Battery life is permanently indicated as a percentage in the
bottom right hand corner of the display, with the icon
flashing when battery life falls below 10%. In order to
preserve power, the PORTADISC™ shuts off
automatically if left in Stop mode with
none of the buttons pressed for more
than 10 minutes. This function can be
disabled if required.
HHB MINIDISCS
HIGH PERFORMANCE RECORDING MEDIA
Optimised for professional audio use, HHB MiniDiscs are
recommended for demanding field recording applications.
Available in 74 and
80 minute
recording times,
HHB MiniDiscs
exhibit block error
rates up to 10
times lower than
conventional,
consumer media.
A precision, sputter
coated recording layer ensures more than one million read /
write cycles while a superior foil shutter design protects the
disc from dust contamination.
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Dealer Stamp
www.hhb.co.uk
HHB Communications Ltd · 73-75 Scrubs Lane, London NW10 6QU, UK
Tel: [phone] · Fax: [phone] · E-Mail: [email protected]
HHB Communications USA LLC · 1410 Centinela Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90025-2501, USA
Tel: [phone] · Fax: [phone] · E-Mail: [email protected]
HHB Communications Canada Ltd · 260 King Street East, Toronto, Ontario M5A 4L5, Canada
Tel: [phone] · Fax: [phone] · E-Mail: [email protected] Trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
TECHNICAL DATA
PORTADISC™ MDP500 PORTABLE MINIDISC RECORDER
GENERAL
Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MiniDisc digital audio system
Disc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . MiniDisc
Recording method . . . . . . . . . Magnetic field variation overwrite
Reading method. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Non contact optical pickup
Laser . . . . . . . . . . . Semiconductor laser (wavelength 780mm)
Record/playback time
Stereo mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 minutes max
Mono mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160 minutes max
Rotation speed . . . Approx 400-900rpm Constant Linear Velocity
Sampling frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44.1kHz
(with internal SRC to cater for 32kHz and 48kHz source signals)
Coding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ATRAC Ver 4.5
Modulation system . . . . . . . EFM (Eight to Fourteen Modulation)
Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Power requirement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-15V DC
Power consumption . . . . . Approx 4.5W record, 3.5W playback
Weight with batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.0kg / 4lbs 7oz
Weight without batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.8kg / 3lbs 15oz
Dimensions (WxHxD). . 225 x 57 x 180mm / 10 x 2.2 x 7.1 ins
Internal speaker power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250mW
AUDIO
Frequency response. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Hz to 20kHz, - 0.5dB
Wow & flutter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Below measurable limits
Signal to noise ratio (playback) . . > 89dB bandwidth 22Hz to 22kHz
Dynamic range (line input). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . > 96dB
Microphone EIN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . > 122dB A-weighted
THD & N @ 1kHz ref 0dBFS . . < 0.02% bandwidth 22Hz to 22kHz
I/O CONNECTIONS
Analogue connectors
Balanced Mic/Line input
Connector type . . . XLR 3: Pin 2 + Hot; pin 3 - Cold; Pin 1 Ground
Mic input level for 0dBFS (level control at max) . . . . . . . -52dBu
Line input level for 0dBFS (level control at max) . . . . . . . . -2dBu
Phantom power (mic inputs). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +48V, 7mA
Unbalanced Line Output
Connector type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RCA phono
Output level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +8dBu @ 0dBFS into >10kΩ
Headphone output
Connector type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1/4" stereo jack
Impedance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32Ω
Output power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15mW
Remote control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parallel
Connector type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-pin mini DIN
Digital connectors
Coaxial digital input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SPDIF
Connector type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RCA phono
Input impedance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75Ω
Input level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.5V p-p
Optical digital input. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SPDIF
Connector type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TOSlink
Coaxial digital output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SPDIF
Connector type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RCA phono
Output impedance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75Ω
Output level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.5V p-p
Optical digital output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SPDIF
Connector type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . TOSlink
USB (Ver 1) input / output
Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Type B
Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Windows 98/2000, Mac OS
ACCESSORIES
The following accessories are included as standard . . . . . . . . . . .
Soft case, carrying strap, battery caddy with 8 x NiMH rechargeable
batteries, spare battery caddy, AC adaptor/charger, HHB MD80
MiniDisc, operating instructions
PORTADISC™
MDP500 PORTABLE
MINIDISC RECORDER
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