Fostex Extends Hard Disk Recorder Line

D824 and D1624 (Click for a larger picture)

Fostex recently added to its line of hard disk recorders with the introduction of the D824 and D1624. Debuting at the 2000 NAMM Show in Los Angeles, both recorders offer a number of new features and functions, including RS422 to support P2 protocol and 24-bit/96 kHz audio reproduction.

"Over the last few years, Fostex has remained committed to the removable hard drive concept," says Phil Celia, director of sales for Fostex Corporation of America. "The new D824 and D1624 have really taken it to the next level by offering an RS422 interface and a total of five recording formats, including non-compressed 24-bit, 96kHz audio. The new interface increases their versatility dramatically by allowing remote placement and offering compatibility with video editors and other professional tools."

The D1624 and D824 use new FDMS-3 version 2 format software to offer 16-bit/44.1 kHz, 16-bit/48 kHz, 24-bit/44.1 kHz, 24-bit/48 kHz and 24-bit/96 kHz audio. A 10 Gigabyte removable hard drive (hard drive and price may vary with market availability) would provide up to 578 track-minutes of recording time. For added convenience, the removable front panel also serves as a full function remote. In addition to the current features on the D108 and D160ver2, the new units offer unlimited UNDOs, COPY/PASTE between programs, a dedicated ALL INPUT key and much more.

The Erase function can be repeated up to 99 times and COPY/PASTE between songs is now available. The direct locate function is accessed via the PREV/NEXT key to automatically locate memory points from 00 to 99. To preserve valuable tracks, a Virtual Time Code function is available via an internal or external Time Code generator. The Sync To Video function allows system integration with various video editors complying with P2 protocol.

The independent Time Code generator function may be designated to any Time Code address. Force Jam is also available. Time Code frame rates include: 24, 25, 30ND, 30DF, 29.97ND and 29.97DF.

Optional accessories include the 8345 Time Code sync card for video editing, the 5043 balanced I/O card and the 8350 eight-channel AES/EBU card.

Suggested retail price on the D824 is $1,795.00, with the D1624 listing for $2,795.00.