Fostex FR2 Field Memory Recorder

The new Fostex FR-2 has been designed specifically for location sound recording; high quality sound effects acquisition; TV & radio documentary; in fact any application where quality audio recording is required.
With excellent quality (up to 24-bit / 192KHz recording - a first for a CF recorder), huge feature list and a cost-effective price point, the FR-2 offers users of portable DAT and other formats the opportunity to make the switch to a more flexible, higher quality audio acquisition machine without sacrificing features.

Excellent Audio Compatibility
In adopting the BWF Broadcast WAV file format, the FR-2 offers what is now the most popular choice for professional recording. It can be set to record mono or stereo files with 16 or 24-bit quantisation over a vast range of frequencies from 22.05kHz for extended recording time up to 192kHz for the highest quality audio acquisition. Transferring files for editing and/or backup is fast and simple via a Compact Flash reader attached to a computer; a PCMCIA slot and/or a CF adaptor - ideal for those editing with a laptop; or indeed the on-board USB port.

Professional Features
The FR-2 incorporates a number of features developed through Fostex’s work in location DVD-RAM recording with the PD-6 and DV40.
Automated file/take naming speeds up time spent naming files between takes on location and complies with both US and Euro clapper board standards. In addition, the inclusion of a ‘pre-record’ buffer (user adjustable) means there should never be another missed take or lost soundbite!

Timecode
The FR-2 can be retrofitted with an optional, fully featured timecode card offering both reader and generator thus turning it into the ideal production and location recorder, whether it be used as a master or backup machine.

All Bases Covered
Excellent audio integrity, fully flexible recording, top quality mic amps, extensive interfacing plus optional timecode prove the Fostex FR-2 has all bases covered.

• Recording industry standard, PC-compatible BWF files (stereo/mono) on a FAT32 media format
• Up to 24-bit/192kHz uncompressed recording
• Includes a unique 22.05kHz sampling frequency setting for extended recording
• Records to both Type I & II CompactFlash cards and PCMCIA 1.8” hard disk drives*1
• Fostex’s “File per Take” system with auto scene & take naming/increment
• Two balanced XLR microphone inputs with switchable phantom power and top quality, high headroom mic pre-amps
• 132 x 64 dot matrix LCD screen for ease of use & high visibility in the field
• Uses AA-sized rechargeable NiMH batteries which are widely available due to the popularity of digital cameras. 8 AA cells will provide approximately 2.5 hours operation when recording to a CF card
• Easy file transfer to PC/Mac via PCMCIA, CF adaptor or standard on-board USB connection for data editing and/or backup*2
• Quick and easy on-board file naming or via external keyboard through standard USB keyboard port
• “Pre-record” loop buffer of approximately 10 seconds*3
• Easy software update via CF or PCMCIA card with downloads from the internet
• Optional timecode generator / reader card
  
  Notes
  *1 May require software update for PCMCIA HD operation
  *2 Complies with Windows ME/2000/XP, Mac OS 10.2 or higher
  *3 Varies depending on sampling frequency"
  

Choice of Media
The FR-2 can record to Type I & II CompactFlash cards and the new breed of PCMCIA 1.8-inch hard disk drives (up to fs 96kHz), offering maximum flexibility and choice.
The new 1.8-inch Type II PC Card hard disk drives pack high capacity into a very compact format. Their powerful, lightweight design makes them an ideal acquisition media offering, for example, 289 minutes of stereo recording at 24-bit/48kHz.

• GENERAL
  Recording Media CompactFlash card, PCMCIA HD
  Recording Format BWF
  Number of Channels Stereo / Mono
  Sampling Frequency 22.05 / 44.1 / 48 / 88.2 / 96 / 176.4 / 192kHz
  Quantization 16 bit (22.05 - 48kHz), 24 bit (44.1 - 192kHz)
• PHYSICAL
  Power Requirement 8 x AA type dry cell (NiMH recommended)
  AC adaptor (optional)
  DC 12V
  Power Consumption approx. 5W
  Dimension 250(W) x 77(H) x 220(D) mm
  Weight 1.5kg (w/out battery)
• PERFORMANCE
  R/P Frequency Response 20Hz to 10kHz +/-1dB (fs: 22.05kHz)
  20Hz to 20kHz +/-1dB (fs: 44.1 / 48kHz)
  20Hz to 40kHz +/-2dB (fs: 88.2 / 96kHz)
  20Hz to 80kHz +/-3dB (fs: 176.4 / 192kHz)
  S/N (ADC-DAC, 24-bit, ref: -20dB, fs:48kHz)
  Line (input gain: +4dBu): 100dB (typical)
  Mic: (input gain: -60dBu): 87dB (typical)
  Dynamic Range 100dB (ADC-DAC, 24bit, ref:-20dB, fs:48kHz) typical
  T.H.D. (ADC-DAC, 24-bit, ref:-20dB, fs:48kHz)
  Line (input gain: +4dBu): Less than 0.005% (at 1kHz, -1dB typical)
  Mic (input gain: -60dBu): Less than 0.008% (at 1kHz, -1dB typical)
  Power Life approx. 2 hours 30 min. (8 x AA NiMH type/2300mAH)
• INPUT / OUTPUT CONNECTORS
  ANALOG AUDIO INPUT L/R
  Connector XLR-3-31 type (Pin2: Hot)
  Line Input Impedance : More than 6k ohm
  Reference Input Level +4dBu
  Maximum Input Level +24dBu (Trim: +4dBu, at the prefader stage)
  MIC
  Input Impedance More than 6k ohm
  Input Level -60dBu
  Maximum Input Level -40dBu (Trim: +4dBu, at the prefader stage)
  Phantom Power P48
  ANALOG AUDIO OUTPUT L(Mono)/R
  Connector RCA pin type
  Output Load Impedance more than 10k ohm
  Nominal Output Level +4dBu
  HEADPHONE OUTPUT 50 + 50mW (32 ohm)
  Max Speaker Output Level 1W
  DIGITAL INPUT/OUTPUT (except for 176.4, 192kHz)
  Connector XLR
  Input Format S/P DIF / AES/EBU automatic
  Output Format S/P DIF / AES/EBU switchable
  USB x 2 (keyboard / PC only)
  TIMECODE CARD (OPTIONAL, T.B.A.)
  LTC Input/Output LEMO
  Frame Rate 23.976/24/25/29.97DF/29.97ND/30DF/30ND
  Gen Mode 24H RUN / REC RUN / FREE RUN / EXT RUN

Fostex are a World leader in the manufacture of pro audio and recording equipment for music studios and musicians.

The Fostex Company now have distribution in more than fifty territories and continue to be a major name in recording from the home musician to broadcast, film & television stations and professional recording studios.

The Fostex brand covers studio headphones, studio monitor speakers and sub woofers, multi trackers and portable recorders.