Sound Devices 788T Manual

788T
High Resolution Digital Audio Recorder with Time Code
User Guide and Technical Information
firmware rev. 1.65
Sound Devices, LLC
300 Wengel Drive • Reedsburg, WI • USA
[phone] • fax: [phone]
Toll-Free: [phone]
www.sounddevices.com
[e-mail]
UDMA
SATA
2.5" HDD
USB
2.0
400 / 800

Quick Start Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Powering the Unit
Setup Menu Navigation Basics
Connecting Audio Sources
Routing Inputs to Tracks
Track Arming
Selecting Recording Parameters and File Destination
Time Code Setup
Recording
Playback
File Transfer to Computer
Front Panel Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Panel Lock
Back Panel Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Right Panel Connectors and Controls . . . . .10
Left Panel Connectors and Controls . . . . . .11
LCD Display Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Input Settings Window Descriptions . . . . . .14
Track Setup Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Master Gain Levels Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Take List Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Drive Directory (File Viewer) Descriptors . . .20
Input Setup and Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Input Settings Window
Input Type
Phantom Power
High-Pass Filters
Input Trim and Input Faders
Input Limiters
Input Polarity
Input Mute
Input to Track Routing
Analog Inputs
Input Linking (Stereo or MS Decoding)
Digital Inputs
AES42 Digital Microphones
Input Delay
Deactivate Inputs
Input to Track Routing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Pre-Fade vs. Post Fade
Routing Using the Input Settings Window
Routing Using the CL-8
Routing Using the Setup Menu
Track Arming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Master Gain Levels
Sampling Rate and Bit Depth . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Sampling Rate
Sampling Frequency and Audio Bandwidth
Bit Depth
Bit Depth and Dynamic Range
Synchronization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Clock Master
Word Out
Digital Outputs
Clock Slave
Internal
Sample Rate Converters
Word Clock
Video Sync
Digital Inputs 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8
Outputs – Analog and Digital . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Output Types
Analog Balanced Line Outputs 1-4
Analog Unbalanced Output 5-6
Balanced Digital AES Outputs 1-6
Headphone Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Selecting Headphone Sources
Setting Headphone Source Options
Input Solo (PFL)
MS Stereo Monitoring
SoundField B-Format Surround Monitoring
Multi-Function Rotary Switch Behavior
Headphone Favorite Selection
Headphone Playback Mode
Headphone Warning Tones
Recording Start and Stop Bells
Low Battery Warning
Headphone Power Up Gain
Headphone Source as Outputs
Metering and Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Output Meter
Digital Meter View
Meter Ballistics
VU (Volume Units)
Peak Only
Peak/VU
Peak Hold Time
Input Activity Ring LEDs
Headphone Peak LED
Tone Oscillator
LCD Contrast & LED Brightness
LCD Backlight
CL-8 Metering and Display
Time Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Frame Rate
F Sampling Rate Modes
48.048k and 48.048kF
Fostex DV40
47.952k and 47.952kF
96.096k and 96.096kF
Time Code Modes
Off
Free Run:
Record Run
Free Run Jam Once
24 Hour Run
Ext TC
Ext TC/cont
Ext TC-Auto Record
Ext TC/cont-Auto Record
Time Code Hold Off
Jam Menu
Jam RX TC
Jam Zeros
Jam Value
Edit Value
User Bits
NTSC Standard Def Video Production
Table of Contents

788T User Guide and Technical Information
1
Recording . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Recording
Pre-Record Buffer
Media Select
Failure During Recording
Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
AutoPlay
Audio File Formats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
.WAV
File Type
Monophonic
Polyphonic
Take Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Scene Name/Numbering
Scene Name Incrementing/Decrementing
Take Numbers
Take Number Incrementing/Decrementing
False Take Control
Emptying the False Take Folders
Track Naming
Take List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58
Take Edit Menu
Notes
Renaming Takes
Duplicate Takes
Circle Take
Project
Scene
Ta k e
Tape (Roll)
Set and Clear Copy Flags
Deleting Takes
Renaming Tracks
File Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
Automatic File Splitting
File Time and Date
Folder Actions
The Drive Directory (File Viewer) . . . . . . . . . .64
Navigation
Selecting Files for Playback
Folder Options Menu
Rename Folders
Delete Folders
Set and Clear Copy Flags
Drive Directory Options Menu
Emptying the Trash
Erase (Media Format)
Storage Media – Internal Hard Drive . . . . . . .68
Drive Type
Drive Replacement
Storage Medium – Removable CompactFlash 70
When to Use CF
Formatting
Speed Testing
Qualified CF Cards
Storage Medium – External FireWire Drives .71
When to Use External FireWire Drives
Formatting
FireWire Bus Powering
Qualified Drives
DVD-RAM Drives
File Copying Among Available Media . . . . . . 72
Error Conditions:
File Transfer to Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
Powering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
External Powering and Battery Charging
Time Code Clock Battery
Auto Functions with External Powering
Power Consumption Variables
Firmware Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Version Information
Upgrading Firmware
Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Keyboard Assignments
Menu Keys
String Edits & Take Name/Number (Renaming & Notes)
Assignable Shortcuts
Shortcut List Functionality
Logic In
Logic Out (Record Tally)
CL-1 Keyboard and Remote Control Interface
Connecting the CL-1
CL-1 Keyboard Interface
CL-1 Logic Inputs and Outputs
Logic Inputs
Logic Outputs
CL-8 Controller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
CL-8 Connection
CL-8 Front Panel Descriptors
CL-8 Side Panel Descriptors
CL-8 Back Panel Descriptors
CL-8 Views
Main View
Aux Routing View
Input Settings View
Slate Mic
Setup Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
User Setup Data File
Setup Menu Shortcuts
Front Panel Button Shortcuts . . . . . . . . . . . .97
Connector Pin Assignments . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Appendix A - Recording Time Calculation . 101
Uncompressed Recording Time in Track-Hours
Record Time
PCM Audio
Audio Data Rate = Bit Depth x Sampling Frequency
Appendix B – Metadata Implementation . . .102
Appendix C – File Naming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Monophonic WAV File Track Number Designators
Duplicate File Names
Appendix D- FAT32 and Maximum File Size 104
Appendix E - Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
CE Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . .106
Software License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Warranty and Technical Support . . . . . . . . .108

788T User Guide and Technical Information
2
v. 1.65 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Welcome
Thank you for purchasing the 788T. The ultra-compact 788T records and plays back audio to and
from its internal hard drive, CompactFlash, or external drives, making field recording simple and
fast. It writes and reads uncompressed PCM audio at 16 or 24 bits with sampling rates between 32
kHz and 96.096 kHz. The time code implementation makes the 788T ready for any recording job—
from over-the-shoulder to cart-based production.
The 788T implements a no-compromise audio path that includes Sound Devices’ high-performance
microphone preamplifiers. Designed specifically for high bandwidth, high bit rate digital recording,
these preamps set a new standard for frequency response linearity, low distortion performance, and
low noise.
With documentary and ENG mixing engineers in mind, the 788T is very small, while still being
feature-rich. No other recorder on the market matches its size and feature set. In addition, its learn-
ing curve is quite short—powerful does not mean complicated.
Sound Devices took advantage of the best in professional and consumer electronic technologies to
bring incredible feature depth with ease of use. Hard drives and CompactFlash are highly reliable,
industry standard, and easily obtainable. With the ability to write to an external drive, low-cost, por-
table media can be delivered to post production. The removable, rechargeable battery is a standard
Sony-compatible Li-ion camcorder battery pack. The 788T interconnects with Windows and Mac OS
computers for convenient data transfer and backup.
788T Firmware Known Issues
For a complete list of any known issues: sounddevices.com/download/788t-firmware.htm.
Copyright Notice and Release
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the expressed written permission of SOUND DEVICES,
LLC. SOUND DEVICES is not responsible for any use of this information.
SOUND DEVICES, LLC shall not be liable to the purchaser of this product or third parties for damages, losses, costs, or expenses
incurred by purchaser or third parties as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or unauthorized modifications, repairs, or
alterations to this product, or failure to strictly comply with SOUND DEVICES, LLC’s operating and installation instructions.
Microsoft Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation. Macintosh is a registered trademark of Apple Computer. Other
product and company names mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
The sound waves logo is a registered trademark of Sound Devices, LLC.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
3
Quickstart
Quick Start Guide
The 788T is an extremely powerful and flexible portable digital audio recorder. Before recording,
please familiarize yourself with the product. Several settings should be verified or set based on indi-
vidual recording needs.
Powering the Unit
1. Apply power to the unit by attaching the (included) removable, rechargeable Li-ion (Lithium Ion) bat-
tery to the back panel battery mount. The metal tabs on the mount line up with the electrical contacts
on the battery. From the factory, the battery may not have a charge, so external DC may be needed for
initial operation and charging. Connect the (included) XL-WPH3, AC-to-DC power adapter to the DC
input plug to power and charge the battery.
2. Press and hold the POWER key for one second to turn the unit on. Press and hold the POWER key
for one second to turn the unit off.
If this is the first time the recorder has been powered, the date and time may need to be set.
Charge the included Li-ion battery for 6 hours prior to initial use.
Setup Menu Navigation Basics
The Setup Menu provides options for recording, routing, and control of parameters. The single layer
menu structure allows for very quick navigation and selection of functions. To enter the Setup Menu
press the front panel MENU key. Once in the Setup Menu, the following conventions are shared
for navigating among selections and to select specific parameters.
• - The MENU key enters the Setup Menu
• ITEM- Highlighted menu item
• - Check Mark ( TONE key) selects the highlighted item or parameter
• - Up arrow ( MENU key) moves up in menu and between menu parameters
• - Down arrow ( HDD key) moves down in menu and between menu parameters
• - X ( LCD Backlight key) exits the selected menu or the Setup Menu altogether
• The STOP key exits from any menu, cancels any changes, and escapes all Setup Menus.
The Multi-Function Rotary Switch (labeled “Select”) is a convenient control to quickly navigate
among menu items and item options. Its push-to-select function duplicates the check mark in most
menus.
Connecting Audio Sources
1. Connect audio sources, either analog or digital, to the appropriate input connector.
2. When using either input, set the appropriate input level to mic, line, or digital, in the Input Settings
Window. Move and hold the Input Selector Switch toward the respective input to access the Input Set-
tings Window.
3. If Mic-level inputs are used on XLR inputs 1-4 or TA3 inputs 5-8, make certain that phantom power,
input limiters, and high-pass filters are activated in the Input Settings Window as required.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
4
v. 1.65 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Quickstart
Routing Inputs to Tracks
Before recording, inputs must be assigned to armed tracks. Each of the 788T’s eight inputs (1, 2, 3,
4, 5, 6, 7, 8) can be assigned to any of the twelve tracks (Left, Right, A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, Aux 1, and
Aux2). Any of the eight inputs can have its own isolated track, multiple inputs can be summed to the
same track, or an input can be routed to multiple tracks.
1. Press and hold the STOP key then press the INPUT key to cycle through factory routing pre-
sets. The 788T has twelve often-used presets for quick setup of input-to-track routing combinations.
2. If none of the preset routing combinations are suitable, assign a custom routing. Sequential presses of
the INPUT key will eventually cycle to the custom routing option. See Input to Track Routing. From
the custom input routing menu any input can be assigned to any track, including multiple inputs as-
signed to a single track.
3. Press EXIT to leave input routing mode.
Track Arming
Armed Tracks are tracks that are both record enabled and have at least one active input routed to
them. At least one track must be armed in order for the 788T to begin recording. Tracks are record enabled
via the Track Setup Window. To access the Track Setup Window press the INPUT key. Tracks that
are enabled are indicated by a * next to the Track letter. Navigate through the available tracks us-
ing the Multifunction Rotary Switch. Press in on the Multifunction Rotary Switch to enable/disable
select tracks.
Selecting Recording Parameters and File Destination
For most productions, the general recording parameters of bit depth, sampling rate, media selec-
tion, and file format are infrequently changed. Enter the Setup Menu to verify recording settings. Bit
depth and sampling rate are displayed on the LCD panel.
1. Select the bit depth as needed in the Setup Menu option REC: BIT DEPTH.
2. Set the sampling rate as needed in the Setup Menu option REC: SAMPLE RATE.
3. Select the file type, WAV mono or WAV poly in the Setup Menu option REC: FILE TYPE.
4. Select the storage media to be recorded to (Internal hard drive, CompactFlash, External drive, or any
combinations of the three drives) in the Setup Menu option REC: MEDIA SELECT.
Time Code Setup
When using a time code workflow, proper time code setup is essential for accuracy. Skip this section
if time code is not being used.
1. Select the appropriate time code frame rate in the Setup Menu option TIMECODE: FRAME RATE.
2. Select the appropriate time code mode in the Setup Menu option TIMECODE: MODE.
3. Determine whether the 788T is to be the time code master or slave. Set time code parameters accord-
ingly to ensure all recording equipment is using the same time reference. See Time Code for additional
information on time code setup.
Recording
With the file parameters set, you are ready to begin recording. The 788T is a record-priority device—
pressing the RECORD key cancels all functions, except file-based operations, and immediately
begins recording a new file. To confirm the 788T is actively recording, the Record LED, REC key, and
the LCD backlight all illuminate red. The filename on the LCD display shows the currently recorded
file. Press and hold the STOP key to end recording.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
5
Quickstart
Playback
When recording is stopped, the most recently recorded file is immediately available for playback.
Press the PLAY key to begin file playback from the beginning of the file. When the 788T is in
Playback mode the LCD backlight will illuminate green.
To select a file for playback:
1. Press and hold the (HDD) key to select a drive for playback. The playback source is the storage
volume highlighted on the LCD display. The last file recorded is the default file ready for playback.
2. Press the (HDD) key to access the Take List, press the (HDD) key again to access the Drive
Directory.
3. Use the Multi-Function Rotary Switch to navigate through the Drive Directory (File Viewer).
4. Once a file is highlighted, press the PLAY key to begin playback.
When playback has finished, the filename will begin flashing. Use the FAST FORWARD key or
REWIND key to step through files in the folder, or press the STOP key to exit Playback.
File Transfer to Computer
Sound Devices strongly recommends shutting down equipment before connecting to or from any
FireWire 400 device with a connection that carries power (6-pin). Reports have come to our attention of
isolated problems when hot-plugging IEEE 1394a (FireWire 400) devices. (Hot-plugging refers to making
connections when one or more of the devices—including the computer—is on.) When hot-plugging, there
are rare occurrences where either the FireWire 400 device or the FireWire 400 port on the host computer
is rendered permanently inoperable. From our experience, any FireWire 400 connection which carries
power is susceptible to this type of damage. It is possible to connect a FireWire 400 connector upside
down. This, too, may potentially damage the FireWire connection on the 788T, the computer, or both.
When connected via FireWire 400 (IEEE-1394a), FireWire 800 (IEEE-1394b), or USB to a Mac OS or
Windows OS computer (See Specifications for computer requirements), the internal hard drive and CF
card mount onto a computer as “letter” accessible mass storage volumes. Use the appropriate cable
for interconnection. Files on the 788T can be treated as if they are local files, including renaming files,
copying, deleting and playing directly from the 788T hard drive. It is best practice to make a backup
copy of all audio files before any processing is performed on the files.
To connect the 788T for file transfer to computer:
1. Stop all playback and recording activity. Make certain the 788T battery is fully charged, or connect to
external DC.
2. Connect the 788T to the host computer with a FireWire 400, FireWire 800, or USB cable. No drivers are
required if the computer meets the requirements listed in Specifications.
If connecting to a computer and the 788T does not automatically connect, it is necessary to initiate
connection to the computer by accessing the FIREWIRE/USB: CONNECTION Setup Menu option or by
simultaneously pressing the STOP and HDD keys.
3. The 788T will enter FireWire/USB transfer, indicated by FIREWIRE/USB: CONNECTION on the LCD
display. All menu and disk access functions of the 788T are stopped while the 788T is connected to a
computer.
4. Navigate to either the hard drive or CF card from the computer and copy all needed audio files to local
storage on the computer.
To avoid any possible directory corruption on the 788T, do not interrupt the connection process and
always properly dismount the drives from the operating system. On Mac OS platforms, drag the drive
icons to the trash. On Windows platforms, use the “Disconnect External Media” icon in the system tray.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
6
v. 1.65 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Front Panel Descriptions
All 788T settings can be accessed and monitored through the front panel LCD and navigation keys.
This allows the unit to be placed in a production bag along with field mixers and wireless transmit-
ters and receivers.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
788T
A
B
C
D
E
F
BFS
d
0
IN
CF
EX
ARM ARM
BFS
d
0
INPUT PWR
MENU
HDD
REC
R
L
1
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
610 11 12
7 8
249
5
3
1) Input Activity Ring LEDs
The LEDs surrounding the Input gain
pots indicate the input activity for each
input, respectively. The LEDs illuminate
in various colors and intensities to repre-
sent the state of each input.
See Metering and Display.
2) Input Gain Control
By default, controls the analog and digi-
tal input gain (input trim) of each chan-
nel respectively. The Input gain control
can be changed in the Setup Menu to act
as fader controls. See Fader Control.
Input Gain Pots can be switched to the
Off position to deactivate the input.
Deactivated inputs are muted and un-
routed from any designated track. This
ultimately extends battery life. See Input
Setup and Control
3) Input Selector/Solo Switch
Selects odd numbered inputs when
pushed left and even numbered inputs
when pushed right. Selecting an input
using the Input Selector/Solo Switch
will display the respective Input Settings
Window. If enabled in the Setup Menu,
the Input Selector Switch will also PFL
(pre fade listen) the input in the head-
phone monitor. To exit the Input Settings
Window, press the Input Selector Switch
again or select another Input. For mo-
mentary action, press and hold the Input
Selector in position for one second or
longer. See Input Setup and Control
4) MENU Key
Accesses the 788T Setup Menu. When
in the Setup Menu use the MENU key
to move up through the options and
parameters.
5) LCD Display
Primary display of 788T status. The
LCD is backlit by pressing and holding
the LCD backlight key and pressing the
Multifunction Rotary Switch. When the
backlight is active the backlight color
can be set to indicate the recorder’s
current mode. Red = Recording Mode,
Green = Playback Mode, White =
Standby Mode
6) TONE key
Press once to activate the tone oscillator,
press again to deactivate, for momentary
action press and hold for one second or
longer. Frequency, tone level, and rout-
ing are controlled in the Setup Menu.
When in the Setup Menu use the TONE
key to enter Setup Menu options and
select parameters when the check mark
appears in the upper right hand corner
of the LCD.
7) Track Arm LEDs
A solid blue LED indicates that the
respective track is armed and ready to
record. Armed tracks are both record
enabled in the Track Setup Window and
have at least one active input routed
to it. The LED will extinguish if the
respective track is disabled or has no
active inputs routed to it. If the LED is
illuminated the respective track will be
recorded.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
7
8) Level Meter LEDs
Eight, 13-segment track level-meters
indicate level in dBFS. Metering bal-
listics and peak hold times are selected
in the Setup Menu. Tracks C, D, E, F can
be used to view Tracks G, H, X1, X2. See
Metering and Display.
9) INPUT Key
Press to access the Track Setup Menu,
from which the user can arm/disarm
record tracks and view meter activity for
all 12 tracks. Press and hold the STOP
key then press the Input key to access
the Input: Track Routing Setup Menu.
Cycle through factory and custom rout-
ings by pressing the Input key while
holding the STOP key. See Input-to-Track
Routing
10) Power Key
To power up the unit, press and hold the
Power (PWR) Key for about one second.
To power the unit down, press and hold
the Power Key for about one second.
11) Power/Charge LED
Indicates the 788T is powered and avail-
able for operation. Indicates the charge
status of the onboard battery charger.
12) Headphone Output Peak LED
Indicates overload of the headphone
amplifier. When lit, the headphone cir-
cuit is overloading. Reduce headphone
level.
13) HDD Key
Press to enter the Take List and Drive
Directory. From the Take List, view and
edit metadata across all storage medi-
ums. From the Drive Directory navigate
between storage media, folders, and
files. View folder and file properties and
select files for playback.
The media that is selected for playback
is shown on the left hand side of the
main screen. Press and hold the HDD
key to toggle between available media.
If only one media is present, media
toggle is disabled. When in the Setup
Menu use the HDD key to move down
through the options and parameters.
14) Rewind Key
Performs reverse (REW) scrubbing
through the played file when pressed in
playback and play-pause mode. Play-
pause indicated by flashing A-time on
LCD. Reverse playback rate increases
the longer the key is held. In play-stop
mode (indicated by flashing filename
on LCD) selects the previous file in the
record folder (either daily folder or main
folder).
15) Play Key
Plays back the file displayed in the LCD.
If pressed immediately after recording is
stopped, the most recently recorded file
is played back.
16) Fast-Forward Key
Performs fast-forward (FF) scrubbing
through the played file when pressed in
playback and play-pause mode. Play-
pause indicated by flashing A-time on
LCD. Fast forward rate increases the lon-
ger the key is held. In play-stop mode
(indicated by flashing filename on LCD)
selects the next file in the record folder
(either daily folder or main folder).
17) LCD Backlight Key
Press to toggle between Level Meter
LEDs to View 1 (Tracks C - F) and View
2 (Tracks G, H, X1, X2). Press and hold
then Press the Multifunction Rotary
Switch to toggle the LCD and Front
Panel soft key backlighting. Hold the
LCD Backlight key and turn the Multi-
Function Rotary Switch to adjust the
brightness of LEDs. In the Setup Menu
the LCD Backlight key functions as the
cancel and exit key.
18) Media Activity LEDs
Indicates storage media activity. IN (in-
ternal hard drive), CF (CompactFlash),
EX (external FireWire device). The LED
illuminates green when the storage
media is ready, illuminates yellow when
the storage media is writing/reading
and while connected to a computer, and
illuminates red when the storage media
has encountered an error, if the drive
has less than one minute of recording
time left, or when running the Drive
Repair utility.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
8
v. 1.65 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Front Panel Descriptions cont.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
788T
A
B
C
D
E
F
BFS
d
0
IN
CF
EX
ARM ARM
BFS
d
0
INPUT PWR
MENU
HDD
REC
R
L
1
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21
610 11 12
7 8
249
5
3
19) Stop/Pause Key
Momentarily press and hold this key to
stop recording. In playback mode, a sin-
gle press pauses playback (play-pause),
allowing audio scrubbing with the FF
and REW keys. Another press of the key
enters play-stop mode where the FF and
REW keys select files for playback from
the current directory, the filename and
time display flash to indicate that a new
file has been selected. One more press of
the key exits playback mode.
Pressing the STOP key whilst in stop
mode displays the name of the next file
to be recorded in the LCD. In the Setup
Menu the STOP key is also used to exit
from any menu, returning to the main
display.
20) Record Key
Press to begin recording. The 788T is
a record-priority device; pressing this
key starts recording and discontinues
all other functions, except file opera-
tions. The REC key will illuminate red
when the 788T is actively recording. If
the selected storage media is not ready
to begin recording a new file, the REC
key will flash red until the recording has
begun. Pressing the REC key during re-
cording can set a cue marker, start a new
file, as selected in the Setup Menu.
21) Record LED
Illuminates red when record mode is
active.
Panel Lock
Press and hold the LCD backlight key then the TONE key to bring up the front panel But-
ton Lock Screen. Button lock prevents unintentional setting changes and/or record status. The 788T
displays any button lock options currently enabled.
select the soft keys to
activate the appropriate
button lock mode
There are three modes:
• Unlocked – all keys are accessible and operate normally.
• Non-Transport Lock – All front panel controls are locked except the Record, Stop, Play, Rewind
and Fast Forward keys.
• Lock All – All front panel keys are locked except the REC key. The REC key is kept active so
the user can initiate recording after entering this mode and enter cue markers. To stop record-
ing in this mode, you must disengage the panel lock and press the stop key.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
9
Back Panel Descriptions
KEYBD OUT INC.LINK
AES I/O, GPIO, PWR
COMPACT FLASH
13 42
56
1) USB Keyboard Input
USB A Female Connector for USB key-
board and CL-8 Controller See Remote
Control for more details regarding Keyboard
and CL-8 setup and functionality.
2) C. Link In/Out
6-pin modular (“RJ-12”) connectors. Not
a telephone jack! For connection to CL-1
Keyboard and Remote Control Interface.
See Remote Control for more details on the
CL-1.
3) CompactFlash Slot
Accepts CompactFlash media with the
label-side up. Compatible with Type I,
Type II, and MicroDrives. High-speed
UDMA cards are recommended for
higher track count recording.
4) Battery Mount
Accepts Sony®InfoLithium L-Series bat-
teries. Also accepts batteries conforming
to this mount. Numerous capacities,
from 1500 to 7000 mAh are available.
5) Multi-Function DE-15 Connector
Multi-function DE-15 connector acts as
AES3 Inputs 1-8, AES3 Outputs 5-6, and
Logic In and Out. Analog and digital
inputs can be used simultaneously. See
Connector Pin Assignments.
Sample Rate Converters are enabled
on each AES input when Setup Menu
REC: SYNC SOURCE is set to Internal.
See Sample Rate Converterts.
AES inputs support AES42 Mode 1 oper-
ation, supplies +10 V of digital phantom
power. See AES42 Digital Microphones.
6) Security Slot
Compatible with the Kensington®Secu-
rity Slot specification. Used to secure the
recorder to a fixed object with a compat-
ible computer lock.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
10
v. 1.65 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Right Panel Connectors and Controls
MENU
SELECT 123
4
5,6
UNBAL
ANALOG BAL LINE OUTS FW800 FW400 USB
BALAES
OUT
1,2 3,4 TIMECODE
SYNC
WORD / VID IN
DC IN
10-18V
PIN 4
PIN 1 ()
()
+
-
WORD OUT
13 4 5 6
2 7
8 9 10 11 12
1) Multi-Function Rotary Switch
When in the Setup Menu, the rotary
switch moves between menu selections;
push to enter selection or enter data.
In Record and Playback modes, selects
headphone monitor source; press action
is user selectable. Turn the knob while
holding the LCD Backlight key to adjust
the brightness of LEDs.
2) TA3 Analog Outputs 1-4
Active-balanced, analog outputs 1-4.
Program source and attenuation lev-
els are user selectable. Pin-1 ground,
pin-2 (+), pin-3 (–). When connecting
to an unbalanced input, do not connect
pin-3.
3) FireWire 800 (IEEE-1394b) Port
Connection to a computer (Mac OS,
Windows) to access the internal hard
drive and CompactFlash volumes as
mass storage devices. Also used to at-
tach external FAT32-formatted FireWire
drives to the 788T for direct recording
and copying.
4) FireWire 400 (IEEE-1394a) Port
Connection to a computer (Mac OS,
Windows) to access the internal hard
drive and CompactFlash volumes as
mass storage devices. Also used to at-
tach external FAT32-formatted FireWire
drives to the 788T for direct recording
and copying.
5) USB-B Port
Connection to a computer (Mac OS,
Windows) to access the internal hard
drive and CompactFlash volumes as
mass storage devices.
6) Sync Input
This BNC is used to connect an exter-
nal video sync or word clock reference
signal for word clock purposes. Accepts
NTSC, PAL, and Tri-level video syncs as
well as word clock rates between 32 kHz
and 48.048 kHz.
7) External DC In
Accepts power from 10–18 volts DC to
power and charge the Li-ion battery.
Hirose 4-pin connector is wired pin-1
negative (-), pin-4 positive (+). Pin-2 and
pin-3 are not connected. Charging char-
acteristics are set in the Setup Menu.
8) Headphone Output
1/4-inch and 3.5 mm TRS stereo head-
phone connectors. Can drive head-
phones from 8 to 1000 ohm impedances
to very high levels. Tip = left, ring =
right, sleeve = ground.
9) Analog Output 5-6
Unbalanced output on 3.5 mm TRS
stereo connector. Program source and at-
tenuation levels are user selectable. Tip
= left, ring = right, sleeve = ground.
10) AES3 Output 1-2 and 3-4
Transformer-balanced AES3 digital out-
puts 1-2 and 3-4. Program source is user
selectable.
11) Time Code Multi-Pin
Time code input and output on 5-pin
LEMO®connector.
12) Word Clock Output
Provides a word clock output running at
the sample rate of the 788T.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
11
Left Panel Connectors and Controls
3
12
1) XLR Analog Inputs Channels 1-4
Active-balanced analog microphone- or
line-level input for inputs 1-4 on XLR
connector. Input type is set within the
Input Settings Window. Pin-1 ground,
pin-2 (+), pin-3 (−).
2) TA3 Analog Input Channels 5-8
Active-balanced analog microphone-
or-line-level input connector for inputs
5-8. Input type is set within the Input
Settings Window. Pin-1 ground, pin-2
(+), pin-3 (−).
3) Headphone Volume
Adjusts the headphone volume. NOTE:
the 788T is capable of producing ear-
damaging levels in headphones. Please
use with caution
LCD Display Descriptions
1
89 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
246 75 3
1) Battery/Voltage Level Indicator
Indicates voltage level of the remov-
able battery or external power sources.
If present, external power overrides
battery power. Graphical bar for relative
level and numeric indicator for precise
voltage measurement.
2) File Name Display
Shows file name actively being recorded
or played back. In Playback-Stop mode,
flashing file name indicates that the
Fast-Forward and Rewind keys can be
used to step through files in the current
playback directory.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
12
v. 1.65 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
LCD Display Descriptions cont.
1
89 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
246 75 3
3) Absolute Time (A-time) Display
Shows the elapsed time of the file be-
ing recorded or played back in hours,
minutes, seconds, and tenths. The A-
time and the time code display can be
exchanged if a large time code display
is needed. This display can be set to
reverse or flash while recording. Flashes
in playback-pause mode.
4) Cue Marker Display
In Record mode, indicates when cue
markers are set. Markers set by pressing
the REC key (option must be selected in
Setup Menu). In Playback mode, dis-
plays cue points numerically as they are
reached in a file.
5) Sample Rate Indicator
Displays the set record sampling rate. In
Playback mode, displays the currently
selected file’s sampling rate.
6) Time & Date Display
Alternating display between the set date
and time of the 788T. This information is
written as the creation and modification
date for generated audio files.
7) External Digital Clock Indicator
This display will show when the 788T
is locked to a valid external sync source,
sync reference is user-selectable in the
Setup Menu. The display will indicate
the current valid sync source
D = digital input, W = word clock, V =
video. The display currently shows that
the recorder is successfully locked to a
valid word clock source.
8) Media Descriptors
For all three media types, an asterisk in
front of the media descriptor indicates
which media is selected for record.
Highlighted media descriptor indicates
media selected for record monitoring,
playback or file directory display.
9) CompactFlash Status
(space remaining/record ready)
Bar graph indicates the remaining re-
cord time available on the CompactFlash
media. Numbers show time in hours
and minutes based on the presently se-
lected number of record tracks, sample
frequency, and bit rate.
10) Internal Hard Drive Status
(space remaining/record ready)
Bar graph indicates remaining record
time available on the internal hard
drive. Numbers show time in hours and
minutes based on the presently selected
of number of record tracks, sample fre-
quency, and bit rate.
11) External Media Space Status
(space remaining/record ready)
If a drive is not attached the indicator
shows dashes. Bar graph indicates re-
maining record time available on the ex-
ternal FireWire volume. Numbers show
time in hours and minutes based on
the presently selected number of record
tracks, sample frequency, and bit rate.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
13
12) Time Code Display
In Stop and Record modes, displays
the time code generated or received by
the 788T. In Playback mode, displays
the the time code information of the file
currently selected for playback (if avail-
able). If non-time code files are playing,
the display shows dashes. The time code
display can be exchanged with the A-
time display in the Setup Menu.
13) Headphone Source Display
Indicates the source for headphone out-
put. Sources and selection order are user
selectable in the Setup Menu.
14) Time Code Frame Rate
Displays the set time code frame rate. If
a file has time code information embed-
ded, the playback frame rate is indi-
cated. If external time code is connected
and the external rate differs from the
rate set internally, the display will flash.
15) Bit Depth Indicator
Shows the set record bit depth. In play-
back, shows the file bit depth.
16) Meter Toggle
Press the soft VU (LCD Backlight) key
to toggle between VU1 and VU2 views.
VU1 displays Tracks C, D, E, F on the
second column of Front Panel Level
Meter LEDs, and VU2 displays Tracks G,
H, X1, X2.
16
17
18
16) Input Level
When input gain is adjusted, gain level
is indicated in dB for the input being
adjusted and its neighboring input. The
relationship of inputs is configured in
the following manner and cannot be
altered 1,2 / 3,4 / 5,6 / 7,8. Neighboring
inputs are not linked or grouped unless
specifically linked in the Setup Menu.
Mic input gain range is from 0 dB to 76
dB, Line input range is from -25 to 50 dB
and Digital input range is from -25 to
50 dB.
17) Headphone Gain Level
When the headphone gain is adjusted,
this will appear and indicate the gain
level in dB.
18) Slate Mic Gain Level (CL-8 only)
Slate Mic gain level is adjusted from -46
to 6 dB in 1 dB increments. To attenuate
the gain press and hold the CL-8 SLATE
button and turn the Multi Function
Rotary Switch.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
14
v. 1.65 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Input Settings Window Descriptions
To access the Input Settings Window press the Input Selector Switch into the position of the desired
input. Pushing the Input Selector Switch to the left will select the odd numbered inputs and push-
ing it to the right will select the even numbered inputs. Press the Input Selector Switch for the select
input again to return to the previously displayed screen.
124 653
7 9 10 8
1) Input Type
The highlighted selection indicates cur-
rent Input Type. Input Type is select-
able from Mic, Line, and Digital Inputs
for each channel respectively. Toggle
through Input Type selections by press-
ing the MENU key.
2) Input Gain Display
The Input gain is displayed in dB for the
selected input. Information displayed
toggles between TRIM and FADER
levels, if CL-8 Controller is attached or
INPUT: FRONT PANEL CONTROLS is set
to Fader Controls. When set to Faders,
use the Multifunction Rotary Switch to
attenuate Trim levels. Pressing in on the
Multifunction Rotary Switch will toggle
control between Trim level and High-
Pass Filter control.
3) Input Selected
Displays the Input that has been se-
lected.
4) Headphone Monitor Hold Indication
Press and hold the Input Selector Switch
for five or more seconds to latch Input
PFL. To exit the PFL monitoring select
another input with the Input Selector
Switch or rotate the Multi-Function
Rotary Switch. This mode only applies
when the INPUT: PFL FUNCTION is set
to enabled.
5) High-Pass Filter
Indicates the state of the High-Pass
Filter and the cut off frequency selected.
Control the High-Pass Filter by using
the Multi-Function Rotary Switch.
6) Phantom Power
The highlighted selection shows the cur-
rent state of phantom power (48 volts)
for the selected input. Enable or disable
Phantom Power by using the Tone key.
7) Input Limiter
The highlighted selection shows the cur-
rent state of the Input Limiter for the se-
lected Input. Enable or disable the Input
Limiter using the HDD or Rewind key.
8) Input to Track Routing
The highlighted selection(s) indicates
the track(s) that the selected input is
currently routed to. To enter and exit the
Input to Track Routing press the Play
key.
9) Input Mute
When highlighted the select Input is
Muted and removed from all tracks.
Input Mute is toggled on and off using
the Fast Forward key.
10) Input Polarity
When highlighted the current state of
the Input’s Polarity is inversed. Control
polarity using the LCD Backlight key.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
15
The following screen appears if the select Input is linked as a stereo pair.
11
The following screen appears if the select Input gain pot is switched to the Off position.
12
11) Panning Control
If the Input selected is a linked stereo
pair, the odd numbered inputs will dis-
play gain and the even numbered inputs
will display the stereo image.
12) Channel Is Powered Down
The Input Settings Window cannot
be accessed if the Input’s Gain Pot is
switched to Off.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
16
v. 1.65 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Track Setup Window
The Track Setup Window allows a user to enable or disable tracks and view track setup information.
Press the front panel INPUT key to access the Track Setup Window. There are two views of the Track
Setup Window, Track Meters View and Track Routing Source View. The Track Meters View is always
the first view to appear upon entry of the Track Setup Window. Items that appear in both views have
identical functionality.
1 2
5
4
3
1) Track Enabled Indicator
An * (asterisk) next to a Track indicates
that the track is record enabled. Tracks
that are enabled and have at least one
active input routed to them are consid-
ered armed. A track must be armed in
order to record. Armed Tracks are indi-
cated by the blue Track Arm LEDs on
the 788T front panel. In record mode the
asterisk will flash if the track is armed.
Navigate through the Tracks using
the Multifunction Rotary Switch. The
selected track has a box around it (Track
G in the example above). To enable/
disable the track, press in on the Multi
Function Rotary Switch.
2) Track Level Meters
Displays all twelve available track Level
Meters. Meter ballistics settings are
identical to the front panel Track Level
Meters and are adjustable within the
Setup Menu.
3) Track Source View
Press the Rewind key to display the
Track Routing Source View.
4) Master Gain Levels
Press the Play key to view the Master
Levels Window.
5) VU Toggle
Press the soft VU (LCD Backlight) key
to toggle between VU1 and VU2 views.
VU1 displays Tracks C, D, E, F on the
second column of Front Panel Level
Meter LEDs, and VU2 displays Tracks G,
H, X1, X2.

788T User Guide and Technical Information
17
The screen below is the Track Routing Source View, it appears if the Routing (Rewind) Key is selected.
6
7
6) Input to Track Routing Display
Displays all active inputs currently
routed to the given track. If an input is
deactivated by turning the Input Gain
Pot to the off position, it will not be dis-
played. Muted Inputs are displayed.
7) Track Level Meters View
Press the Rewind key to view the Track
Level Meters Window.
Master Gain Levels Window
The Master Gain Levels Window is accessed by pressing the Levels (Play) key from within the Track
Setup Window. From this window, view and adjust the overall levels of the Master Left/Right and
Aux Tracks.
2
1
5
4
3
1) L/R Meters
Displays real time metering of Left and
Right Track Levels.
2) AUX Meters
Displays real time metering of X1 and
X2 Track Levels.
3) L/R Master Gain
Pressing the soft L/R (Rewind) key will
select the Left and Right Tracks Master
Gain level. Gain is attenuated from 0
to -60 dB in .1 dB increments using the
Multi Function Rotary Switch or the soft
up and down arrows. Press in on the
Multi Function Rotary Switch to return
to unity gain (0 dB).
4) Tracks
Press the soft Tracks (Play) key to return
to the Track Settings Window.
5) AUX Master Gain
Pressing the soft AUX (Fast Forward)
key will select the Aux Tracks Master
Gain level. Gain is attenuated from 0
to -60 dB in .1 dB increments using the
Multi Function Rotary Switch or the soft
up and down arrows. Press in on the
Multi Function Rotary Switch to return
to unity gain (0 dB).

788T User Guide and Technical Information
18
v. 1.65 Features and specifications are subject to change. Visit www.sounddevices.com for the latest documentation.
Take List Descriptions
To access the Take List press the HDD key or select Setup Menu option FILE: VIEW TAKE LIST.
From the Take List view and edit metadata across all storage mediums.
798 10
6
1245
3
1) Current/Last Take
The *(asterisk) indicates the current take
being recorded or the last take to have
been recorded by the 788T.
2) Next Take
The n indicates the name of the next take
to be recorded. With the n take high-
lighted the user can make notes entry or
increment/decrement Scene and Take
for the next file to be recorded.
3) Take Name Column
This is a sequential list of Takes recorded
by the 788T firmware revision 1.5+.
4) Next File Destination
Displays folder destination for the next
Take to be recorded.
5) Additional File Information
Displays additional file information, the
following information can be toggled
through by pressing in on the Multi-
function Rotary Switch: Beginning Time
Code Stamp, Time of File Creation, Date
of File Creation, Scene Names, Drives
Containing the File, and Folder that
Contains the File.
6) DRV (Drive Directory)
Press the soft Drive (HDD) key to access
the Drive Directory (File Viewer).
7) RENAME
Press the soft RENAME (Rewind) key to
access the file/metadata rename win-
dow.
8) EDIT
Press the soft EDIT (Play) key to access
the Take Edit Menu. From this menu,
make notes entries and view/edit the
following metadata at anytime for any
take: Notes, Rename, Circle, Project,
Scene, Take, Tape (Roll), Set/Clear Copy,
Delete (sends file to the Trash), and
Rename Tracks.
9) NOTES
Press the soft NOTES (Fast Forward)
key to quickly access the Notes field.
10) X Exit
Exits to the previously viewed window.