Lectrosonics MTCR User manual

MTCR
Miniature Time Code Recorder
INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Rio Rancho, NM, USA
www.lectrosonics.com
Fill in for your records:
Serial Number:
Purchase Date:
Quick Start Steps
1) Install good battery and turn the power on (p. 3, 6).
2) Insert microSDHC memory card and format it with
the MTCR (p. 3, 4).
3) Timecode jam source (p. 7, 8).
4) Connect microphone or audio source.
5) Set input gain (Mic Level p. 8).
6) Select record mode (p. 9).
7) Set output level (HP Volume p. 8).
8) Begin recording (p. 5-9).
microSDHC Logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC
CAUTION: See card formatting
warning on page 4.

MTCR
LECTROSONICS, INC.
2
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the MTCR Digital Recorder. On occasion, there is a need to record audio in
circumstances where a traditional full sized recorder is impractical. Whether it be an extreme sport, a public speak-
ing event, a wedding or a next-to-impossible location sound recording, the MTCR is designed for the difficult audio
capture. When talent is at an extreme distance or using a wireless microphone is not practical (knights in armor come
to mind), the MTCR can travel with your subject and record professional quality audio, synchronized with timecode.
The recorder is unobtrusive and easily hidden in garments and costumes and easy to conceal when used as a “plant”
microphone to capture environmental or location sound.
Broadcast Wave Format
With a timecode jam at the start of the production, the audio data file contents include a timing reference to make it
easy to synchronize them in the timeline. The industry standard BWF/.WAV file format is compatible with essentially
any audio or video editing software.
Versatility
The MTCR can be tethered to a camera to capture a higher quality or backup audio recording. The input connector is
the industry standard TA5M jack that accepts any mic or line level signal, and provides bias voltage to power a wide
variety of electret lavaliere microphones. The input connection and wiring is compatible with microphones pre-wired for
“compatible” and “servo bias” configurations to feed 5-pin inputs on Lectrosonics wireless microphone transmitters.
Setup and adjustment is made through an intuitive interface provided by the keypad and LCD. In keeping with typical
Lectrosonics mechanical designs, the housing is machined from a solid aluminum billet for the ruggedness needed in
field production.
Table of Contents
Quick Start Steps................................................................. 1
Introduction............................................................................ 2
Broadcast Wave Format....................................................... 2
Versatility.............................................................................. 2
Battery Installation ................................................................ 3
Compatibility withmicroSDHC memory cards .................... 3
Installing the Card ................................................................. 4
Formatting the SD Card ........................................................ 4
IMPORTANT .......................................................................... 4
iXML HEADER SUPPORT .................................................. 4
Features and Controls .......................................................... 5
Operating Instructions.......................................................... 6
Powering On ........................................................................ 6
Powering Off ........................................................................ 6
Main Window........................................................................ 6
Recording Window............................................................... 6
Playback Window ................................................................. 6
Navigating Menus.................................................................. 7
Timecode... .......................................................................... 8
Mic Level.............................................................................. 8
HP Volume ........................................................................... 8
Scene & Take ...................................................................... 8
SD Card... ............................................................................ 8
Settings... ............................................................................. 9
Firmware Updates ................................................................. 9
Recovery Process ................................................................. 10
Copying Recordings to a Computer..................................... 11
PDRRemote............................................................................ 12
5-Pin Input Jack Wiring ......................................................... 13
Microphone Cable Terminationfor
Non-Lectrosonics Microphones.................................... 14
Timecode Jack Wiring........................................................... 14
Wiring Hookups for Different Sources ................................ 15
Included Accessories............................................................ 16
Additional Accessories......................................................... 16
Specifications ........................................................................ 17
Available Recording Time ..................................................... 17
Service and Repair ................................................................ 19
Returning Units for Repair ................................................... 19

Portable Digital Recorder
Rio Rancho, NM 3
Battery Installation
The audio recorder is powered by a single AAA Lithium
battery for 6 hours of operation.
Zinc-carbon batteries marked “heavy-duty” or “long-
lasting” are not adequate.
NOTE: Although alkaline batteries will work in
the MTCR, we strongly recommend that they
be used only for short-term testing. For any
actual production use, we recommend the use of
disposable lithium AAA batteries.
Push inward on the release tabs to open the door.
Battery
polarity
markings
Press tabs to
open door
Insert the battery according to the markings inside the
battery compartment door. The (+) pos. end of the bat-
tery is oriented as shown here.
CAUTION:
Danger of explosion if battery is
incorrectly replaced.
Replace only with the same or equivalent type.
Compatibility with
microSDHC memory cards
Please note that the MTCR and SPDR are designed
for use with the microSDHC memory cards. There are
several types of SD card standards (as of this writing)
based on capacity (storage in GB).
SDSC: standard capacity, up to and including 2 GB –
DO NOT USE!
SDHC: high capacity, more than 2 GB and up to and
including 32 GB – USE THIS TYPE.
SDXC: extended capacity, more than 32 GB and up to
and including 2 TB – DO NOT USE!
SDUC: extended capacity, more than 2TB and up to
and including 128 TB – DO NOT USE!
The larger XC and UC cards use a different formatting
method and bus structure and are NOT compatible
with the MTCR recorder. These are typically used with
later generation video systems and cameras for image
applications (video and high resolution, high speed
photography).
ONLY microSDHC memory cards should be used. They
are available in capacities from 4GB to 32GB. Look for
the Speed Class 10 cards (as indicated by a C wrapped
around the number 10), or the UHS Speed Class I
cards (as indicated by the numeral 1 inside a U sym-
bol). Also note the microSDHC Logo.
If you are switching to a new brand or source of card,
we always suggest testing first before using the card on
a critical application.
The following markings will appear on compatible
memory cards. One or all of the markings will appear on
the card housing and the packaging.
UHS Speed Class I Stand-alone
Speed Class 10
UHS Speed Class 1
UHS Speed Class I
Accompanying
microSDHC logo
microSDHC Logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC

MTCR
LECTROSONICS, INC.
4
IMPORTANT
The formatting of the MTCR SD card sets up contigu-
ous sectors for maximum efficiency in the recording
process. The file format utilizes the BEXT (Broadcast
Extension) wave format which has sufficient data space
in the header for the file information and the time code
imprint.
The SD card, as formatted by the MTCR, can be cor-
rupted by any attempt to directly edit, change, format or
view the files on a computer.
The simplest way to prevent data corruption is to copy
the .wav files from the card to a computer or other Win-
dows or OS formatted media FIRST. Repeat – COPY
THE FILES FIRST!
Do not rename files directly on the SD card.
Do not attempt to edit the files directly on the SD card.
Do not save ANYTHING to the SD card with a comput-
er (such as the take log, note files etc) - it is formatted
for MTCR use only.
Do not open the files on the SD card with any third
party program such as Wave Agent or Audacity and
permit a save. In Wave Agent, do not IMPORT - you
can OPEN and play it but do not save or Import - Wave
Agent will corrupt the file.
In short - there should be NO manipulation of the data
on the card or addition of data to the card with anything
other than a MTCR. Copy the files to a computer, thumb
drive, hard drive, etc. that has been formatted as a
regular OS device FIRST - then you can edit freely.
iXML HEADER SUPPORT
Recordings contain industry standard iXML chunks in
the file headers, with the most commonly used fields
filled in.
Installing the Card
The card slot is covered by a flexible cap. Open the cap
by pulling out on the side flush with the housing.
Pull up on this side of cap to open
Insert the card with the
label facing the keypad
side of the recorder.
Formatting the SD Card
New microSDHC memory cards come pre-formatted
with a FAT32 file system which is optimized for good
performance. The MTCR relies on this performance and
will never disturb the underlying low level formatting of
the SD card. When the MTCR “formats” a card, it per-
forms a function similar to the Windows “Quick Format”
which deletes all files and prepares the card for record-
ing. The card can be read by any standard computer
but if any write, edit or deletions are made to the card
by the computer, the card must be re-formatted with
the MTCR to prepare it again for recording. The MTCR
never low level formats a card and we strongly advise
against doing so with the computer.
To format the card with the MTCR, select Format Card
in the menu and press MENU/SEL on the keypad.
NOTE: An error message will appear if samples
are lost due to a poor performing “slow” card.
WARNING: Do not perform a low level format (com-
plete format) with a computer. Doing so may render the
memory card unusable with the MTCR recorder.
With a windows based computer, be sure to check the
quick format box before formatting the card.
With a Mac, choose MS-DOS (FAT).

Portable Digital Recorder
Rio Rancho, NM 5
Features and Controls
MicroSDHC
memory card
slot cover
Timecode
sync port
Headphone jack Audio input
The audio input circuitry is the essentially the same as
on Lectrosonics SM and L Series transmitters. Any mi-
crophone wired as Lectrosonics “compatible” or “servo
bias” will work with the MTCR. See page 10 for details.
If the unit is powered on with a card which hasn’t been
formatted for the MTCR, a prompt to format the card will
appear. Follow the on-screen instructions to format the
card. If the card has an interrupted recording on it, the
Recovery screen will appear.
If there is no card in the MTCR or the card is not prop-
erly formatted, the Main Window appears. Settings are
accessed by pressing MENU/SEL on the keypad, and
then using the UP and DOWN arrow buttons and BACK
button to navigate the menu items and select functions.
The buttons also provide alternate functions as labeled
by the icons on the LCD.
-40 -20 +0
REC
i
LAST
TC
00 : 01 : 33
Functions
indicated by the
icons on the LCD
are activated
by pressing the
adjacent buttons
on the keypad
Icons in each corner of the LCD define the alternate
functions of the adjacent buttons on the keypad. For ex-
ample, in the Main Window shown above, recording is
started by pressing the UP arrow button on the keypad,
in which case, the display switches to the Recording
Window.
In the Recording Window, the functions of three keypad
buttons change to provide the needed operations during
recording.
MicroSDHC
memory card
slot cover
Moisture/Dust
Cover
Audio input
-40 -20 +0
TC
00 : 01 : 33
i
REC
HOLD HOLD
In the Playback Windows, the icons on the LCD change
to provide the functions needed during playback. There
are three variants of the playback window:
• active playback
• paused playback in the middle of the recording
• paused playback at the end of the recording
The icons in the corners of the LCD will change
depending on the status of the playback.
-40 -20 +0
TC
00 : 01 : 33
NOTE: Refer to the Operating Instructions section
for details on the specific button functions and
operations in the Main, Recording and Playback
Windows.

MTCR
LECTROSONICS, INC.
6
Operating Instructions
Powering On
Press and hold the Power Button until the Lectrosonics
logo appears on the LCD.
Powering Off
Power can be turned off by holding the Power Button in
and waiting for the countdown. The Power Button will
not work while the unit is recording (stop recording first
before powering down) or if the front panel has been
locked out by the operator (unlock the front panel first).
If the power button is released before the countdown
reaches 3, the unit will remain turned on and the LCD
will return to the same screen or menu that was dis-
played previously.
Main Window
The Main Window provides a view of the battery status,
timecode and the input audio level. Icons in the four
corners of the screen provide access to the Menu, Info
(available recording time if SD card installed, MTCR info
if no card in unit), and the REC (record start) and LAST
(play last clip) functions. These functions are invoked by
pressing the adjacent keypad button as shown on the
previous page.
Battery status
Record Start
-40 -20 +0
REC
i
LAST
TC
00 : 01 : 33
Play Last Recording
Card Info
Timecode
Menu
Audio Level
Press the keypad
button next to each
icon to operate the
functions indicated
by the icons
The Main Window will alert you if there is no memory
card in the MTCR.
-40 -20 +0
REC
i
LAST
TC
00 : 01 : 33
?
?
?
Question mark
blinks
Recording Window
To start recording, press the REC button in the top right
corner of the Main Window. The screen will switch to the
Recording Window.
NOTE: The headphone output will be muted when
recording.
-40 -20 +0
TC
00 : 01 : 33
i
REC
HOLD HOLD
Recording
info
Menu
Record icon
blinks
Press and Hold BACK
and DOWN arrow to
stop recording
Press the keypad
button next to each
icon to operate the
functions indicated
by the icons
About the “Slow Card”Warning:
If any samples are lost during recording, a warning
screen will appear displaying “slow card.” Typically the
lost audio is less than 10 milliseconds and is barely no-
ticeable. The unit will still be recording while this screen
appears. Press the BACK button (OK) to return to the
recording screen.
When this happens, there will be no “gap” or brief si-
lence in the recording. Instead, the audio and timecode
will simply jump forward. If this happens repeatedly dur-
ing the recording, it is best to replace the card.
Playback Window
Icons in the Playback Window provide button functions
used for playback on a recording device. The icons will
change depending on the status of the playback: active
playback, paused in the middle, or paused at the end.
Press the keypad
button next to each
icon to operate the
functions indicated
by the icons
-40 -20 +0
TC
00 : 18 : 21
...
i
Main
Menu
View
Timestamp
Blinking icon changes
from Play to Pause
STOP Play/Pause
Progress
Tracker
TC
00 : 18 : 11
HOLD
002A .WAV
[MTCR-HD24]
Len
02/05 05:01
00:00:11
All files created are
given a time stamp.
See File Naming
for options.

Portable Digital Recorder
Rio Rancho, NM 7
Navigating Menus
Timecode... SEL
BACK
Scene&Take
SD Card...
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
Use Clock
Plug in time code
source and sync
Format Card
File Naming
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
Takes/Play
About Card
SEL
BACK
TC Jam
JAM NOW
SEL
BACK
TC Jam
Frame Rate
Frame Rate
30
SEL
BACK
Use arrow ke
ys to select
frame rate
30 23.976
29.97 30DF
25 29.97DF
24
SEL
BACK
LOADING
TIMECODE
FROM
CLOCK
Use arrow keys to set
scene or take number
Scene: 1
Take: 1
Press to choose
scene or take
Use arrow keys to select
No or Ye s
Format Card?
No
Yes
(files lost)
Files/Play #.wav
#.wav
Use arrow keys to select
file number
Press to set
function
Settings...
Date & Time
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK Bit Depth
SEL
BACK Record Mode
S 1 T 1
S 2 T 1
Use arrow keys to
choose take
Press to select
take and play
Sequence
Clock Time
Scene/Take
Use arrow keys to select
file naming preference
Press to set
function
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
[MTCR ]
Max Rec Time
E.........................F
0/ 14G
Fuel gauge
Storage used
Storage capacity
Available recording time (H : M : S)
(For information
purposes only. )
Bat Type
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK Backlight
SEL
BACK Lock/Unlock
Mic Level
HP Volume
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
Use arrow keys to select
level
28
-40 -20 +0
Use arrow keys to select
headphone volume
HEADPHONE
Remote
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
HD Stereo
Split Gain
Use arrow keys to select
record mode
Press to set
function
2017/01/15
11:03
Use arrow keys to make
changes
Press to select
date and time options
Yes
No
Use arrow keys to select
key pad locking preference
Press to set
function
Always On
30 Seconds
5 Minutes
Use arrow keys to select
backlight duration
Press to set
function
Yes
No
Use arrow keys to select
analog or digital
Press to set
function
Alkaline
Lithium
1.41 volts
Use arrow keys to select
battery type
Press to set
function
Remote
enabled?
About MTCR
Default
SEL
BACK
SEL
BACK
Rev: v2.00 (For information
purposes only. )
24
32
Use arrow keys to select
bit depth
Press to set
function
Locked?
Use arrow keys to return
to default settings
No
Yes
Restore
defaults?

MTCR
LECTROSONICS, INC.
8
Timecode...
TC Jam (jam timecode)
When TC Jam is selected, JAM NOW will flash on the
LCD and the unit is ready to be synced with the time-
code source. Connect the timecode source and the
sync will take place automatically. When the sync is
successful, a message will be displayed to confirm the
operation.
NOTE: The headphone output will be muted when
entering the TC Jam page. Audio will be restored
when the cable is removed.
Timecode defaults to zero at power up if no timecode
source is used to jam the unit. A timing reference is
logged into the BWF metadata.
Frame Rate
The frame rate affects embedding of the timing refer-
ence in the BWF file metadata and display of timecode.
The following options are available:
• 30 • 23.976
• 29.97 • 30DF
• 25 • 29.97DF
• 24
NOTE: While it is possible to change the frame
rate, the most common use will be to check the
frame rate which was received during the most
recent timecode jam. In rare situations, it might be
useful to alter the frame rate here, but be aware
that audio tracks many not line up correctly with
mismatched frame rates.
Use Clock
Choose to use the clock provided in the MTCR as
opposed to a timecode source. Set the clock in the Set-
tings Menu, Date & Time on page 9.
NOTE: The MTCR time clock and calendar (RTCC)
cannot be relied on as an accurate time code
source. Use Clock should only be used in projects
where there is no need for the time to agree with
an external time code source.
Mic Level
-40 -20 +0
35
Cor Lappears here
Audio level
Gain in dB
Use the UP and DOWN arrow
buttons to adjust the input gain.
When the audio level meter
reading exceeds the zero at the
top, either a “C” or an “L” icon
will appear, indicating respec-
tively clipping in the non-safety
track (Split Gain mode) or
limiting (HD Mono mode). In HD
Mono mode, the limiter compresses 30 dB of input level
into the top 5 dB, reserved for “overhead” in this mode.
In Split Gain mode, the limiter would rarely be engaged,
but it will engage if necessary (with no graphical
indication) to prevent clipping of the safety track.
NOTE: See Record Mode.
HP Volume
Use UP and DOWN arrows to adjust headphone vol-
ume.
Scene & Take
Each time recording is started, the MTCR automatically
begins a new take. Takes can run up to 999. The scene
numbers can be manually entered and are limited to 99.
SD Card...
Format Card
This item erases all files on the card and prepares the
card for recording.
Files/Play
Choose to play the files based on their name. Use the
arrows to scroll, MENU/SEL to select the file and the
DOWN arrow to play.
Takes/Play
Choose to play the files based on scene and take.
Scene and take numbers can be manually entered, and
are embedded in the filenames and iXML headers of
recordings. Take number automatically increments each
time the record button is pressed. When browsing by
scene and take, recordings that span multiple files are
listed singly and played as one long recording.
File Naming
Filenames of the recordings contain industry standard
iXML chunks in the file headers, with the most com-
monly used fields filled in. File naming can be set as:
• Sequence: a progressive sequence of numbers
• Clock Time: the time of the internal clock at the
beginning of the recording; recorded as DDHHM-
MA.WAV. DD is the day of the month, HH is hours,
MM is minutes, A is the overwrite-prevention
character, incrementing to ‘B’, ‘C’, etc. as needed
to avoid a naming conflict A final character serves
as the segment identifier, being absent in the first
segment, ‘2’ in the second segment, ‘3’ in the third
and so on.
• Scene/Take: the progressive scene and take
automatically cataloged each time a recording
is begun; S01T001.WAV. The initial ‘S’ is meant to
suggest “Scene” but also serves as the overwrite
prevention character, decrementing to ‘R’, ‘Q’, etc.
as needed to avoid a naming conflict. The “01” after
the ‘S’ is the scene number. ‘T’ means take, and
the “001” is the take number. An eighth character
is used only for the second and subsequent (4 GB)
segments for very large recordings. Scene numbers
are entered manually. Take numbers increment
automatically.

Portable Digital Recorder
Rio Rancho, NM 9
About Card
View information about the microSDHC memory card.
See storage used, storage capacity and available re-
cording time.
Fuel gauge
Storage
capacity
Available recording
time (H : M : S)
Storage used
Next file name
Settings...
Record Mode
There are two recording modes available in the menu,
HD Mono, which records a single audio track and Split
Gain, which records two different tracks, one at the nor-
mal level and another at -18 dB as a “safety” track that
can be used in place of the normal track in the event
that overload distortion (clipping) has occurred on the
normal track. In either mode, recordings over 4GB are
broken into sequential segments so very long record-
ings (over approx 5 hours in HD mode or 2.5 hours in
split mode) will not be a single file.
NOTE: See Mic Level.
NOTE: The headphone output will be muted when
recording.
Bit Depth
MTCR defaults to 24-bit format recording, which is a
more effecient space saving format. 32-bit is available
if your editing software is older and won’t accept 24-bit.
(32-bit is actually 24-bit padded with zeros, so more
space is taken up on the card.)
Date & Time
The MTCR has a real time clock/calendar (RTCC)
which is used for timestamping the files it writes to the
SD card. The RTCC is able to keep time for a minimum
of 90 minutes with no battery installed, and can keep
time more or less indefinitely if any battery, even a
“dead” battery, is installed. To set the date and time, use
the MENU/SEL button to toggle through the options and
the UP and DOWN arrow buttons to choose the appro-
priate number.
WARNING: Since the real time clock/calendar
can be manipulated and/or stop with loss of
power, it should not be relied upon for accurate
time keeping. Only use this option when a time
clock is not available.
Lock/Unlock
The LOCKED mode protects the recorder from acciden-
tal changes to its settings. When locked, menu naviga-
tion is possible, but any attempt to alter settings will
prompt a “LOCKED/can use menu to unlock” message.
The unit can be unlocked using the Lock/Unlock setup
screen. The “dweedle tone” remote control will still work.
Backlight
The recorder backlight can be set to turn off after either
5 minutes or 30 seconds, or to stay on continuously.
Bat Type
Choose either Alkaline or Lithium battery type. The volt-
age of the installed battery will be shown at the bottom
of the display.
NOTE: Although alkaline batteries will work in
the MTCR, we strongly recommend that they
be used only for short-term testing. For any
actual production use, we recommend the use of
disposable lithium AAA batteries.
Remote
The recorder can be configured to respond to “dweedle
tone” signals from the PDRRemote app or to ignore
them. Use the arrow buttons to toggle between “yes”
(remote control on) and “no” (remote control off). The
default setting is “no.”
About MTCR
The MTCR’s firmware version and serial number
are displayed.
Default
To return the recorder to its factory default settings, use
the UP and DOWN arrow buttons to choose Yes.
Firmware Updates
Firmware updates are made using a microSDHC
memory card. Download and copy the following firm-
ware update files to a drive on your computer.
• MTCR vX_xx.ldr is the firmware update file, where
“X_xx” is the revision number.
In the computer:
1) Perform a Quick Format of the card. On a Windows-
based system, this will automatically format the
card to the FAT32 format, which is the Windows
standard. On a Mac, you may be given several
options. If the card is already formatted in Win-
dows (FAT32) - it will be greyed out - then you do
not need to do anything. If the card is in another
format, choose Windows (FAT32) and then click
“Erase.” When the quick format on the computer is
complete, close the dialogue box and open the file
browser.
2) Copy the MTCR v1_xx.ldr file to the memory card,
then safely eject the card from the computer.
In the MTCR:
1) Leave the MTCR turned off and insert the microS-
DHC memory card into the slot.
2) Hold down both the UP and DOWN arrow buttons
on the recorder and turn the power on.
continued on next page...

MTCR
LECTROSONICS, INC.
10
Recovery Process
Recordings can be reliably recovered even if the card is
accidentally removed or the battery dies while a record-
ing is in progress. If a recording is interrupted, all of the
audio is present on the card and can be easily recov-
ered by the MTCR. The MTCR keeps track of the length
of the most recent recording so it can supply a good
suggestion for the length to recover. If the length is ever
unknown or the MTCR’s suggestion seems incorrect, it
is always possible to override the suggested length. If
in doubt, specify the maximum length possible, in which
case the entire remainder of the card is recovered. All
of the interrupted recording will be present, followed by
extra contents which might be random noise or audio
from previously deleted recordings.
NOTE: A good battery is required to begin the
recovery process. If recovery is attempted with a
weak battery, a message appears saying that a
fresh battery will be required.
Once a fresh battery has been installed, power on the
MTCR and insert the card with the interrupted record-
ing. The MTCR will detect the interrupted recording and
display.
INTERRUPTED
RECORDING
FOUND
And then
Recover?
For safe use
See manual
If “No” is chosen, nothing is done to the card and
the MTCR will not use the card. If “Yes” is chosen”, a
prompt appears asking for the length of the recording
to recover, specified as a number of hours and minutes.
The default suggestion will be the approximate length
of the most recent recording. It is always safe to re-
cover a longer recording than was made. To specify the
recovery time, use the MENU/SEL button to navigate
and specify the hours and minutes fields. Once set as
desired, use MENU/SEL to navigate to the “GO!” soft
button and press the DOWN arrow button to begin the
recovery process.
Recovery is nearly instantaneous. When completed, the
display will show
Recovery
Successful
3) The recorder will boot up into the firmware update
mode with the following options on the LCD:
• Run - Exits the update mode and starts up the
recorder in the normal operating mode.
• Update - Displays a scrollable list of the .ldr files
on the card.
• Power Off - Exits the update mode and turns the
power off.
NOTE: If the unit powers on normally instead of
offering the options in Step 3 (above), power the
unit off and try again, making sure that both arrow
buttons are firmly depressed while powering the
unti back on.
4) Select Update. Use the UP and DOWN arrow
buttons to select the desired file and press MENU/
SEL to begin the update process. The LCD will
display status messages while the firmware is being
updated.
NOTE: The Update process takes about
20 seconds.
5) When the update is complete, the LCD will display
this message: UPDATE SUCCESSFUL REMOVE
CARD. After the card is removed, the LCD will
return to the three options shown in step 3 above.
6) Select Power Off and press MENU/SEL to finish
the update.
7) If you re-insert the same card and turn the power
back on for normal use, the LCD will display a mes-
sage prompting you to format the card:
Format Card?
(files lost)
• No
• Yes
If you wish to record audio on the card, you must
re-format it. Select Yes and press MENU/SEL to
format the card. When the process is complete, the
LCD will return to the Main Window and be ready
for normal operation.
If you choose to keep the card as is, you may re-
move the card at this time.
The firmware update process is managed by a boot-
loader program - on very rare occasions, you might
need to update the bootloader.
• MTCRboot vX_xx.ldr is the bootloader file
Follow the same process as with a firmware update and
select the MTCRboot file. Be forewarned, this can cor-
rupt your unit if interrupted. Don’t update the bootloader
unless advised to do so by the factory.

Portable Digital Recorder
Rio Rancho, NM 11
Copying Recordings to a Computer
1. Remove your MicroSD card from the MTCR by
lightly pressing inward on the card and, when
released, the card should pop out of the recorder
enough to remove it.
2. Insert the MicroSD card into
Write Protect Tab
Insert MicroSD card
into adapter here
the adapter.
3. Slide the button on the side
of the adapter to the locked
position and insert the adapt-
er (with MicroSD card inside)
into your computer’s memory
card slot.
NOTE: The MicroSD card adapter
has a write protect tab. Sliding
the tab downward to the locked
position prevents recording of
data and protects existing data.
When recording to, erasing from
or formatting the MicroSD card,
slide the tab upward.
4. If using a Windows operating
system, the computer should detect the card and
assign it to a drive. Open the selected drive by click-
ing on the “Start” button and select “Computer” to
launch Windows Explorer, the native file manager.
Open the folder that was assigned to your MicroSD
card.
If using a MAC operating system, the card will
appear as an icon on the desktop. Double-click to
open it.
5. Copy the files you wish to download from the card
and paste them into the selected file on your com-
puter.
6. Be sure to safely eject the card adapter when fin-
ished copying the files.

MTCR
LECTROSONICS, INC.
12
PDRRemote
By New Endian LLC
Convenient remote control is provided by a phone app
available on the AppStore and Google Play. The app
uses audio tones (“dweedle tones”) played through the
phone’s speaker that are interpreted by the recorder to
make changes to the recorder settings:
• Record Start/Stop
• Mic Gain Level
• Lock/Unlock
The MTCR tones are unique to the MTCR and will
not react to “dweedle tones” meant for Lectrosonics
transmitters.
The screens appear differently for iOS and Android
phones, but perform the same functions.
For Best Results
The following conditions are required:
• The microphone must be within range.
• The recorder must be configured to enable remote
control activation. See Remote on the menu.
Please be aware this app is not a Lectrosonics
product. It is privately owned and operated by
New Endian LLC, www.newendian.com.
iOS Version
Select Function
Select
Mode
Tap to
play tone
Playback
Volune
Android Version
Select
Function
Tap function
name or down
arrow to select
mode
Playback Volume
Touch and hold
to play tones

Portable Digital Recorder
Rio Rancho, NM 13
The wiring diagrams included in this section represent
the basic wiring necessary for the most common types
of microphones and other audio inputs. Some micro-
phones may require extra jumpers or a slight variation
on the diagrams shown.
It is virtually impossible to keep completely up to date
on changes that other manufacturers make to their
products, thus you may encounter a microphone that
differs from these instructions. If this occurs please call
our toll-free number listed under Service and Repair in
this manual or visit: www.lectrosonics.com/US
10k
1k
5
4
3
2
1
To Audio Amplifier
5V SOURCE
MIC
VOLTAGE SELECT
LINE IN
GND
+15uF
+5 VDC
Servo Bias
Pin 4 to Pin 1 = 0 V
Pin 4 Open = 2 V
Pin 4 to Pin 2 = 4 V
+
To Limiter Control
30uF
500 Ohm
100 Ohm
2.7K
200 Ohm
+
3.3uF
5-Pin Input Jack Wiring
Audio input jack wiring:
PIN 1
Shield (ground) for positive biased electret lavaliere
microphones. Shield (ground) for dynamic microphones
and line level inputs.
PIN 2
Bias voltage source for positive biased electret lavaliere
microphones that are not using servo bias circuitry and
voltage source for 4 volt servo bias wiring.
PIN 3
Microphone level input and bias supply.
PIN 4
Bias voltage selector for Pin 3.
Pin 3 voltage depends on Pin 4 connection.
Pin 4 tied to Pin 1: 0 V
Pin 4 Open: 2 V
Pin 4 to Pin 2: 4 V
PIN 5
Line level input for tape decks, mixer outputs, musical
instruments, etc.
Installing the Connector:
1) If necessary, remove the old connector from the
microphone cable.
2) Slide the dust boot onto microphone cable with the
large end facing the connector.
3) If necessary, slide the 1/8-inch black shrink tubing
onto the mircrophone cable. This tubing is needed
for some smaller diameter cables to ensure there
is a snug fit in the dust boot.
4) Slide the backshell over the cable as shown above.
Slide the insulator over the cable before soldering
the wires to the pins on the insert.
5) Solder the wires and resistors to the pins on the
insert according to the diagrams shown in Wiring
Hookups for Different Sources. A length of .065
OD clear tubing is included if you need to insulate
the resistor leads or shield wire.
6) If necessary, remove the rubber strain relief from
the TA5F backshell by simply pulling it out.
7) Seat the insulator on the insert. Slide the cable
clamp over the and of the insulator and crimp as
shown on the next page.
8) Insert the assembled insert/insulator/clamp into
the latchlock. Make sure the tab and slot align
to allow the insert to fully seat in the latchlock.
Thread the backshell onto the latchlock.
TA5F Latchlock Insert
Insulator Cable clamp
Backshell with
strain relief
Remove strain relief
if using dust boot
Backshell
without strain
relief Dust boot (35510)
Note: If you use the dust boot, remove the rubber
strain relief that is attached to the TA5F cap, or the
boot will not fit over the assembly.

MTCR
LECTROSONICS, INC.
14
Microphone Cable Termination
for Non-Lectrosonics Microphones
TA5F Connector Assembly
Mic Cord Stripping Instructions
1
23
4
5
VIEW FROM SOLDER
SIDE OF PINS
0.3"
0.15"
NOTE: This termination is intended for
UHF transmitters and the MTCR only.
VHF transmitters with 5-pin jacks require a
different termination. Lectrosonics lavaliere
microphones are terminated for compatibility
with VHF and UHF transmitters, which is
different from what is shown here.
Crimping to Shield and Insulation
Shield
Insulation
Strip and position the cable so that the clamp
can be crimped to contact both the mic cable
shield and the insulation. The shield contact
reduces noise with some microphones and the
insulation clamp increases ruggedness.
Crimp these
fingers to
contact the
shield
Crimp these
fingers to
clamp the
insulation
Timecode Jack Wiring
The timecode connection is made via a standard LEMO
5-pin connector. Pin connections are as follows. Viewed
from outside the connector.
1
2
34
5
1 - Ground
2 - SMPTE Timecode In
3 - Not used
4 - Not used
5 - Not used

Portable Digital Recorder
Rio Rancho, NM 15
Wiring Hookups for Different Sources
BALANCED AND FLOATING LINE LEVEL SIGNALS
*NOTE: If the output is balanced but center
tapped to ground, such as on all Lectrosonics
receivers, do not connect Pin 3 of the XLR jack
to Pin 4 of the TA 5F connector.
TA 5F
PLUG
XLR JACK
Fig. 7
Compatible Wiring for Both Servo Bias Inputs and Earlier Transmitters:
Simple Wiring - Can ONLY be used with
Servo Bias Inputs:
Servo Bias was introduced in 2005 and all trans-
mitters with 5-pin inputs have been built with this
feature since 2007.
In addition to the microphone and line level wiring hook-
ups illustrated below, Lectrosonics makes a number of
cables and adapters for other situations such as con-
necting musical instruments (guitars, bass guitars, etc.)
to the transmitter. Visit www.lectrosonics.com and
click on Accessories, or download the master catalog.
A lot of information regarding microphone wiring is also
available in the FAQ section of the web site at:
http://www.lectrosonics.com
Hover over Support and click on FAQs. Follow the instructions
to search by model number or other search options.
SHIELD
TIP
PIN
5
4
3
2
1
SLEEVE
LINE LEVEL
RCA or 1/4” PLUG
AUDIO 1
2
3
4 5
TA5F
PLUG
UNBALANCED LINE LEVEL SIGNALS
For signal levels up to 3V (+12 dBu) before limiting. Fully
compatible with 5-pin inputs on other Lectrosonics transmitters
such as the LM and UM Series. A 20k ohm resistor can be
inserted in series with Pin 5 for an additional 20 dB of
attenuation to handle up to 30V (+32 dBu).
Fig. 8
1
2
3
4
5
PIN
SHIELD
AUDIO
1
2
3
45
TA5F
PLUG
2.7 k
2 VOLT NEGATIVE BIAS 2-WIRE ELECTRET
Compatible wiring for microphones
such as negative bias TRAM models.
NOTE: The resistor value can range from 2k to 4k ohms.
Fig. 4
Fig. 11
4 VOLT POSITIVE BIAS 3-WIRE ELECTRET
NOTE: This servo bias wiring is not compatible with earlier
versions of Lectrosonics transmitters. Check with the factory
to confirm which models can use this wiring.
2 VOLT POSITIVE BIAS 2-WIRE ELECTRET
Simplified wiring for microphones
such as Countryman B6 Lavalier
and E6 Earset models and others.
NOTE: This servo bias wiring is not compatible with earlier
versions of Lectrosonics transmitters. Check with the factory
to confirm which models can use this wiring.
Fig. 9
Fig. 3 - DPA Microphones
DANISH PRO AUDIO MINIATURE MODELS
This wiring is for DPA lavalier
and headset microphones.
NOTE: The resistor value can range from 3k to 4 k ohms.
Same as DPA adapter DAD3056
Fig. 10
2 VOLT NEGATIVE BIAS 2-WIRE ELECTRET
Simplified wiring for microphones such as negative bias TRAM.
NOTE: This servo bias wiring is not compatible with earlier
versions of Lectrosonics transmitters. Check with the factory
to confirm which models can use this wiring.
Fig. 6
LO-Z MICROPHONE LEVEL SIGNALS
For low impedance dynamic mics or electret
mics with internal battery or power supply.
XLR JACK
Insert 1k resistor in series with pin 3 if attenuation is needed
Fig. 1
1
2
3
4
5
PIN
SHIELD
AUDIO 1
2
3
4 5
TA5F
PLUG
3.3 k
1.5 k
2 VOLT POSITIVE BIAS 2-WIRE ELECTRET
Compatible wiring for microphones such as
Countryman E6 headworn and B6 lavaliere. Also see Fig. 9
4 VOLT POSITIVE BIAS 2-WIRE ELECTRET
Most common type of wiring for
lavaliere mics.
Fig. 2
WIRING FOR LECTROSONICS M152/5P
(N/C)
WHITE
RED
The M152 lavaliere microphone
has an internal resistor and can be
wired in a 2-wire configuration.
This is the factory standard wiring.
Fig. 5 - Sanken COS-11 and others
DRAIN (BIAS)
SOURCE (AUDIO)
SHIELD
4 VOLT POSITIVE BIAS 3-WIRE ELECTRET
WITH EXTERNAL RESISTOR
Also used for other 3-wire
lavaliere microphones that
require an external resistor.

MTCR
LECTROSONICS, INC.
16
Included Accessories
55010 microSDHC memory card; Speed Class 10; UHS
Speed Class 1; UHS Speed Class I
P1354 dust and moisture plug for headphone jack and
timecode sync port.
PDRWBC wire belt clip snaps onto the housing.
M152/5P electret lavaliere microphone. High-perfor-
mance onmidirectional capsule; locking 5-pin plug
(Switchcraft TA5F).
Additional Accessories
MC35 line level adapter cable. Female XLR to female
TA5F; 37 inches long. Feed line level signal to pin 5 on
the TA5M jack.
MC41 mic level adapter cable. Female XLR to female
TA5F; 37 inches long. Feeds mic level signal to pin 3 on
the TA5M jack.

Portable Digital Recorder
Rio Rancho, NM 17
Specifications
Recording
Storage media: microSDHC memory card*
File format: .wav files (BWF - Broadcast Wave File)
A/D converter: 24-bit
Sampling rate: 48 kHz
Recording modes/Bit rate: • HD mono mode: 24 bit - 144 kbytes/s
32 bit - 192 kbytes/s
• Split gain mode: 24 bit - 288 kbytes/s
32 bit - 384 kbytes/s
Input
Type: Analog mic/line level compatible;
servo bias preamp for 2V and 4V lavaliere
microphones
Input level: • Dynamic mic: 0.5 mV to 50 mV
• Electret mic: Nominal 2 mV to 300 mV
• Line level: 17 mV to 1.7 V
Input connector: TA5M 5-pin male
Headphone Jack
Connector: 3.5 mm mini jack; TRS
Maximum level: -3 dBu (575 mV RMS)
Audio Performance
Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz; +0.5/-1.5 dB
Dynamic range: 110 dB (A), before limiting
Distortion: < 0.035%
Timecode
Connector: 5-pin LEMO
Signal voltage: 0.5 Vp-p to 5Vp-p
Input impedance: 10 k Ohms
Format: SMPTE 12M - 1999 compliant
Battery Power/Life
Power consumption: 300 mW
Battery type: AAA Lithium non-rechargeable
(recommended)
AAA Lithium: 6.5 hours typical
Operating temperature range
Celsius: -20 to 50
Fahrenheit: -5 to 122
Dimensions and Weight
Dimensions: Inches: 2.37H x 2.14W x 0.67D
Millimeters: 60H x 54W x 17D
Weight: 71 grams (2.5 ozs.) w/ AAA Lithium battery
Specifications subject to change without notice.
*microSDHC Logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC
Available Recording Time
Using a microSDHC memory card, the available re-
cording times are as follows. The actual time may vary
slightly from the values listed in the tables.
HD mono mode
Size Hrs:Min
8GB 11:12
16GB 23:00
32GB 46:07
Split gain mode
Size Hrs:Min
8GB 5:36
16GB 11:30
32GB 23:03
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found
to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits
are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will
not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment
does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to
try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
—Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
—Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver.
—Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
—Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.

MTCR
LECTROSONICS, INC.
18

Portable Digital Recorder
Rio Rancho, NM 19
Service and Repair
If your recorder malfunctions, you should attempt to correct or isolate the trouble before concluding that the equipment
needs repair. Make sure you have followed the setup procedure and operating instructions and check the intercon-
necting cables.
We strongly recommend that you do not try to repair the equipment yourself and do not have the local repair shop at-
tempt anything other than the simplest repair. If the repair is more complicated than a broken wire or loose connection,
send the unit to the factory for repair and service. Don’t attempt to adjust any controls inside the units. Once set at the
factory, the various controls and trimmers do not drift with age or vibration and never require readjustment. There are
no adjustments inside that will make a malfunctioning unit start working.
LECTROSONICS’ Service Department is equipped and staffed to quickly repair your equipment. In warranty repairs
are made at no charge in accordance with the terms of the warranty. Out-of-warranty repairs are charged at a modest
flat rate plus parts and shipping. Since it takes almost as much time and effort to determine what is wrong as it does
to make the repair, there is a charge for an exact quotation. We will be happy to quote approximate charges by phone
for out-of-warranty repairs.
Returning Units for Repair
For timely service, please follow the steps below:
A. DO NOT return equipment to the factory for repair without first contacting us by email or by phone. We need
to know the nature of the problem, the model number and the serial number of the equipment. We also need a
phone number where you can be reached 8 A.M. to 4 P.M. (U.S. Mountain Standard Time).
B. After receiving your request, we will issue you a return authorization number (R.A.). This number will help speed
your repair through our receiving and repair departments. The return authorization number must be clearly shown
on the outside of the shipping container.
C. Pack the equipment carefully and ship to us, shipping costs prepaid. If necessary, we can provide you with the
proper packing materials. UPS is usually the best way to ship the units. Heavy units should be “double-boxed” for
safe transport.
D. We also strongly recommend that you insure the equipment, since we cannot be responsible for loss of or dam-
age to equipment that you ship. Of course, we insure the equipment when we ship it back to you.
Lectrosonics USA:
Mailing address: Shipping address: Telephone:
Lectrosonics, Inc. Lectrosonics, Inc. [phone]
PO Box 15900 561 Laser Rd., Suite 102 [phone] Toll-free
Rio Rancho, NM 87174 Rio Rancho, NM 87124 [phone] Fax
USA USA
Web: E-mail:
www.lectrosonics.com [e-mail]
Lectrosonics Canada:
Mailing Address: Telephone: E-mail:
720 Spadina Avenue, [phone] Sales: [email protected]
Suite 600 [phone] Toll-free Service: [email protected]
Toronto, Ontario M5S 2T9 (877-7LECTRO)
[phone] Fax

581 Laser Road NE • Rio Rancho, NM 87124 USA • www.lectrosonics.com
[phone] • [phone] • fax [phone] • [email protected]
m
5 March 2020
LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY
The equipment is warranted for one year from date of purchase against defects in
materials or workmanship provided it was purchased from an authorized dealer. This
warranty does not cover equipment which has been abused or damaged by careless
handling or shipping. This warranty does not apply to used or demonstrator equipment.
Should any defect develop, Lectrosonics, Inc. will, at our option, repair or replace any
defective parts without charge for either parts or labor. If Lectrosonics, Inc. cannot
correct the defect in your equipment, it will be replaced at no charge with a similar new
item. Lectrosonics, Inc. will pay for the cost of returning your equipment to you.
This warranty applies only to items returned to Lectrosonics, Inc. or an authorized
dealer, shipping costs prepaid, within one year from the date of purchase.
This Limited Warranty is governed by the laws of the State of New Mexico. It states the
entire liablility of Lectrosonics Inc. and the entire remedy of the purchaser for any
breach of warranty as outlined above. NEITHER LECTROSONICS, INC. NOR
ANYONE INVOLVED IN THE PRODUCTION OR DELIVERY OF THE EQUIPMENT
SHALL BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, CONSEQUENTIAL,
OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE
THIS EQUIPMENT EVEN IF LECTROSONICS, INC. HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE
POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE LIABILITY OF
LECTROSONICS, INC. EXCEED THE PURCHASE PRICE OF ANY DEFECTIVE
EQUIPMENT.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have additional legal rights which
vary from state to state.