833-v9.00-User-Guide
833-v9.00-User-Guide
Panel Views 5
Home Screen 11
Channel Screen 13
Virtual Keyboard 16
Phrase Manager 18
Channel EQ 19
Channel Compression 20
Channel Copy 21
Menus 22
Power 23
Channel Setup 25
Channels 7-8 27
Buses 28
Outputs 30
Limiters 33
Automixer 34
Meters 37
Timecode 39
Record/Play 41
Q-marks 43
Files 44
Slate/Coms/Returns 51
SuperSlot 53
SL-2 53
SL-2 Options 57
System 69
Plugins 72
Controllers 77
USB Keyboard 90
SD-Remote 92
USB-A 107
USB-C 107
Specifications 108
Warranty 114
Glossary 115
Our friendly and knowledgeable support team, based in the USA and the UK, is here for all your questions and comments. Our job is
to make your job easier.
Sincerely,
Sound Devices
1: Channel Trim
Turns the channel on/off and sets the input gain for the channel. To conserve power, turn off unused channels by rotating channel
trim fully counter-clockwise. Channel 7-8 trims are accessible via the Channels 7-8 menu or using */** + PFL switch shortcuts. Use
Toggle Switch Actions to set the Select and /or HP knobs as trims for Ch 7,8.
3: PFL Switch
Pre/Post Fade Listen selects the channel in the headphones for Pre/Post Fade Listen while simultaneously entering the channel
screen. Also used for accessing virtual keyboard for channel naming and various shortcuts. Channel 9-10 PFLs are accessible via
the Channels 9-10 menu or using */** + PFL switch shortcuts. Use Toggle Switch Actions to set the Select and /or HP knobs as
PFLs for Ch 9,10.
4: Channel Fader
Controls the audio level of the channel as it contributes to the L/R mix and any destinations selected in routing as “Post”. Channel
7-8 faders are accessible via the Channels 7-8 menu or using */** + PFL switch shortcuts. Use Toggle Switch Actions to set the
Select and /or HP knobs as faders for Ch 7,8.
5: Meter Button
Push to view and select various metering presets. Used with Select knob. Press again to return to Home Screen. Push with channel
Select switched 1-6 for shortcut to Meters Preset 1-6. Push and rotate HP knob to zoom meter scale. Push and Push HP knob to
access Receiver Overview screen if a SuperSlot accessory is connected.
6: Transport Controls
A joystick (with its illuminated LED ring) on the front panel is used to perform various transport control functions. (See table). The
ring LED will flash orange indicating post roll while writing to media.
Function Action
Record Push up the Transport control to begin recording a new file. The LED ring illuminates red
while recording is underway.
Stop Press in the Transport control to stop recording or playback. While in standby, press and
hold to display next take name.
Play Push down on the Transport control to begin playback of the last file recorded or file
Rewind / Load Previous Take While in standby, push left to load the previous take. While in playback, push and hold left to
rewind.
When the 833 is playing back or paused, moving the joystick to the left (<<) rewinds at 2x
speed, then after holding for 5 seconds, it increases to 16x speed. Push Left while holding
Select to delete the current Q-mark.
Fast Forward / Load Next Take While in standby, push right to load the next take. While in playback, push and hold right to
rewind.
When the 833 is playing back or paused, moving the joystick to the right (>>) fast forwards
at 2x speed, then after holding for 5 seconds, it increases to 16x speed. Push right while
holding Select to add a Q-mark.
Scrub While playing or paused, press the headphone knob >0.5 s to enter Scrub mode. Then
rotate clockwise for fast forward or counter-clockwise for rewind speeds of 0x, 1/8x, 1/4x,
1/2x, 1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, and 16x. The audio may be heard in scrub mode up to 2x speed.
8: Menu Button
Push to enter the Main menu. Also used to exit menus. The Menu button will flash red to indicate clipping on the headphones. Press
with Channel Select switches 1-6 for shortcuts to Menu Favorites 1-6.
9: Headphone Knob
1. Rotate to control headphone volume.
2. Press to open headphone preset menu and select.
3. Menu navigation and push to select.
4. Press Menu and HP knob to enter Take List.
5. Press > 0.5 s during playback to enter audio scrub mode.
4: USB C Port
1. File transfer.
2. 2-in/2-out USB audio streaming
5: USB A Port
1. USB keyboard.
2. USB to SD-Remote Android app.
3. USB to the CL-16, CL-12, and approved 3rd party fader controllers.
4. Supports USB hubs.
5. Jam A20-Mini Timecode.
Rear Panel
1: Expansion Port
Used for connecting XL-AES 8 Channel AES3 Input Expander and SL-2 Dual SuperSlot Wireless Module.
3: Q-mark
Indicates Q-mark number.
5: Power Icon
Indicates approximate voltage condition and current power source being used. When Smart Batteries are in use the remaining
percentage and time is displayed.
8: Return Meter
Indicates audio level for the return.
11: Timecode
Indicates current SMPTE timecode value in HH:MM:SS:FF.
5: Channel Linking
Indicates the current linking status. The linking options are Unlinked, adjacent channels (eg. 1,2) and adjacent channels Mid Side
(eg. 1-2MS). Linked parameters are: trims, faders, HPF, EQ, delay, limiter, mute, ISO, Bus Send 1 and Bus Send 2. Stereo panning
is 1 to L and 2 to R. MS spread can be adjusted either in the odd channel’s MS balance field by holding */** and rotating Select or by
using the even channel’s front panel trim pot. See Channel Setup menu. When unlinking from a stereo or MS pair, odd and even
channel pans get set back to center.
7: Polarity Reverse
Indicates polarity status. Green icon = polarity reversed, white icon = polarity normal.
9: Channel Limiter
Indicates on/off status of channel limiter.
11: Mute
Indicates mute status of channel. Blue icon = muted. Toggle mute on/off with the “Tone” switch.
12: L C R Select
Indicates the stereo pan position of the channel’s contribution to the L/R mix. Orange = selected. Use the */** switch to select. Hold
*/** switch and rotate Select knob for continuous panning positioning. Alternatively, press and hold Select knob, then use */** switch
to pan continuously. Rotating the select knob while holding */** will change the balance of Mid, Center and Side when two channels
are MS linked.
13: Arm
Toggle the Rtn/Fav switch to arm or disarm isolated track for recording.
15: HP Preset
Pressing the HP knob toggles between HP preset and PFL. Can be used to listen to channel panning while viewing the Channel
Screen by setting the HP Preset to LR Stereo.
18: Automix
Indicates whether the channel is selected for automixing.
Purple text = On and white text = Off.
19: Channel EQ
Indicates the EQ position in the audio chain. Pre- or Post-fade. Select to enter Channel EQ screen.
Action Function
‘abc’ switch Quick flick toggles between A-Z and a-z in keyboard.
Rotate Select Moves the cursor to the left or right in the text field.
Quick Press Select Switches to the Shifted functions: Clear, End, Home, Exit. When shifted functions are active, their text
changes to white and the non-shifted functions change to gray.
Clear
Clears all phrases.
Delete
Deletes selected phrases.
New
Creates a new phrase.
Edit
Edits the selected phrase.
Insert
Inserts selected phrase into text.
Replace
Replaces text with current selected phrase.
Mic
Selects EQ state and insert location. Indicates where the EQ is inserted into the audio chain. Pre-fade or Post-fade [Off*, Pre, Post].
EQ will apply to bus sends only when applied Pre-fade.
Tone
Selects EQ band mode [Bypass*, Active]
*/**
Selects EQ band. Use Select knob to adjust frequency and HP knob to adjust gain of the filter. [LF*, MF, HF] All filters are sweepable
from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
RTN
Selects Q (bandwidth) of selected band [0.5 - 10] (use Sel or HP knob to adjust).
FAV
Toggles filter type of LF and HF band [Peak, Shelf*].
The Low Cut value is represented by the leftmost value on the graph and is adjustable in the channel screen.
Mic
Selects Compression state and insert location. Indicates where the compression is inserted into the audio chain. Pre-fade or
Post-fade [Off*, Pre, Post].
Compression will apply to bus sends only when applied Pre-fade.
Tone
● Selects threshold [0 to -40 dB]
● * Selects Ratio. [1.0:1 to 20:1 in 0.1 steps]
● ** Selects Knee. [Hard, Soft]
RTN
Selects Attack time [1 to 200 ms in 1 ms steps]
FAV
Selects Release time [50 to 200 ms in 1 ms steps, 200 to 1000 ms in 10 ms steps]
DC Ref
Allows proper power level indicator calibration based upon the type of DC power source used. [12V DC*, 14 V Li-Ion, 12 V Lead
Acid, Full Range (10-18 V), Smart Battery], NP1 Data
DC Loss
Selects how the unit should operate when DC power is lost. [Switch to Next Supply*, Turn Off].
1. Phantom Voltage
Selects phantom power voltage for all inputs. [12 V, 48 V*].
2. PFL Mode
Selects the source of the PFL feed. [Auto* Pre-fade, Post-fade] Auto = pre-fade if channel is routed to ISO track
pre-fade, post-fade if channel is routed to the ISO track post-fade.
3. Channel Grouping
Channel Groups can be set to Off, Trim/Fader, or Fader. Trim/Fader groups allow the smallest channel number in the
group to control trim, fader, record arming, limiters, and mutes of all channels in the group. Fader groups act just like
Trim/Fader groups but trims remain independent per channel. Groups that are Off retain their channel routings but settings
and levels are independent per channel. This allows for quick enabling or disabling of a group without losing group
routings. Trims can only be grouped when all channels of the group share the same gain range. Gain ranges depend on
input type routed to a channel. See Channel Screen>Channel Trim Value for more detail. Four channel groups are
possible; channels grouped can only be assigned to one group.
a. Group 1 [1-8]
b. Group 2 [1-8]
c. Group 3 [1-8]
d. Group 4 [1-8]
Note: When the optional +4 Plugin is installed, channels 1-12 are available for grouping.
5. MS Spread Control
Selects how the MS spread is controlled when a pair of channels are MS-linked. [PFL Screen, Even Trim Pot]. PFL
Screen = MS spread controlled by holding the odd channel’s PFL screen */** toggle and rotating Select. Even Trim Pot =
MS spread controlled by rotating the front panel’s even trim pot.
Access to channel screens is also possible by using the */** + PFL switch shortcuts:
* + PFL 1 = Ch 7
* + PFL 2 = Ch 8
* + PFL 3 = Ch 9 (with +4 Plugin)
* + PFL 4 = Ch 10 (with +4 Plugin)
* + PFL 5 = Ch 11 (with +4 Plugin)
* + PFL 6 = Ch 12 (with +4 Plugin)
Trims, Faders and PFL’s for channel’s 7 and 8 (or 7-12 with the +4 Plugin) can be controlled by a combination of the toggle
switches beneath the LCD and the Select and HP Knobs. Setup in the System>Toggle Switch Action menu. See the Toggle Switch
Action section for information on which of the following options are available for each toggle switch:
Ch 7 or 8 Trim/PFL (latch)
Flick toggle then rotate Select to adjust ch 7 or 8 trim. Gain values are displayed in the Home Screen sample rate field. Press Select
to PFL. Flick toggle to cancel mode.
Ch 7 or 8 Fader/PFL (latch)
Flick toggle then rotate Select to adjust ch 7 or 8 fader. Gain values are displayed in the Home Screen sample rate field. Flick toggle
to cancel mode
Ch 7 Trim/PFL (Moment)
Hold toggle then rotate Select to adjust ch 7 trim. Gain values are displayed in the Home Screen sample rate field. Press Select to
PFL
Ch 8 Trim/PFL (Moment)
Hold toggle then rotate HP to adjust ch 8 trim. Gain values are displayed in the Home Screen sample rate field. Press HP to PFL
Ch 7 Fader/PFL (Moment)
Hold toggle then rotate Select to adjust ch 7 fader. Gain values are displayed in the Home Screen sample rate field. Press Select to
PFL
Ch 8 Fader/PFL (Moment)
Hold toggle then rotate HP to adjust ch 8 fader. Gain values are displayed in the Home Screen sample rate field. Press HP to PFL
When a bus screen is entered, that bus is solo’d by default in both HP L and HP R. If the bus is linked, the odd bus will be heard in
HP L and the even bus in HP R. Toggle between Solo and the current HP preset by pressing the HP encoder.
1. 1. Bus Meter
Audio level meter for the selected bus.
2. Link *-*
Selects linking for two odd-to-even numbered adjacent buses. Links bus Gain, bus limiters, Mute Coms, and Mute All
functions.
3. ISO
Any ISO channel contributes to Bus mix. Green fill in text box = Pre-fade, Orange fill in text box = Post-fade, Light Blue fill
in text box = Send gain] Send adjusts the Iso channel send gain to the bus when the selected Iso channel is routed as a
‘Send’ to that bus (light blue fill in text box). When the selected Iso channel is set to ‘Send’ (light blue fill), enter the Send
field with the * toggle then adjust send gain by rotating the HP knob.
Tip: Recorded ISOs can be played back via buses. This is useful for playing back alternate ISO mixes on set. By routing
the ISOs as bus sends instead of pre or post-fader, you can adjust the ISO mix on playback. Use Buses B3-B4 for this
purpose since Bus L, R, B1, and B2 can be recorded and are reserved for playing back their own recorded audio.
5. Com
Rtn (not available on L,R buses).
6. Return
Rtn 1-2 (not available on L,R buses)
7. Slate
Activates the slate mic. Slate mic will follow settings from Slate/Coms/Returns menu.
8. More..
Select to bring up a second page of Bus toggle switch functions including:
Name: Select to name the bus
NoiseAssist (NA) or Cedar SDNX (NX) In Bus 1-4 screens, use ** toggle to adjust the amount of NoiseAssist
or CEDAR sdnx applied to the selected bus.
Bus Compressor (Comp): Select Rtn toggle to set compressor parameters for the selected bus. Available bus
compressor parameters:
Mic Toggle: Selects Compression On or Off.
Tone: Selects threshold [0 to -40 dB]
* Toggle: Selects Ratio. [1.0:1 to 20:1 in 0.1 steps]
**Toggle: Selects Knee. [Hard, Soft]
RTN Toggle: Selects Attack time [1 to 200 ms in 1ms steps]
FAV Toggle: Selects Release time [50 to 200 ms in 1 ms steps, 200 to 1000 ms in 10 ms steps]
Limiter control.
Bus Limiter (Limit): Select Fav toggle to toggle Limiter On or Off.
10. NoiseAssist (NA) or Cedar SDNX (NX) In Bus L and R screens, use ** toggle to adjust the amount of NoiseAssist or
CEDAR sdnx applied to the selected bus.
11. Gain
Use ** toggle to select and adjust selected bus gain in 1 dB increments. [Off-16 dB]
Name
Opens a keyboard for naming the selected Output. Output names appear in output meter views when a meter view preset has Track
Names enabled.
Edit
Enters the Output screen. The bus can also be entered by pressing the Sel or HP knob.
1. ISO
Selected source will contribute to the Output. (Green = Prefade, orange = Post-fade [1-8])
2. Bus
[L,R, 1-4, HP-L, HP-R]
3. Com
Routes Com Return directly to the output.
4. Return
Routes Return 1 or 2 directly to the output.
USB
1. ISO
Any source selected will be routed to the selected USB output. (Green fill in text box = Pre-fade, Orange fill in text box =
Post-fade [1-8])
2. BUS
[L,R, 1-4]
3. Output
All sources are selected post-delay. [L,R, X1-X4]
AES Output
Selecting AES as the Level for L or R Outputs accesses the AES Output Routing menus. L Output is used to output AES 1 and 2. R
Output is used to output AES 3 and 4.
From the AES Output Routing menus, route any bus to any AES Output using the Select knob.
Change Level back to Line, -10, or Mic to cancel AES Output and return to the L and R Output menus.
HP Presets
Function Description
Channel Threshold
Selects the threshold at which the channel limiters activate. -6 dBFS* [-2 to -12 dBFS]
Channel Ratio
Selects the ratio of the limiter. [Inf:1, 10:1, 12:1, 14:1, 16:1, 18:1, 20:1*]
Channel Knee
Selects the channel limiter Knee. [Hard, Soft]
Bus Threshold
Selects the threshold at which the bus limiters activate. -3 dBFS* [-2 to -12 dBFS]
Bus Ratio
Selects the ratio of the limiter. [Inf:1, 10:1, 12:1, 14:1, 16:1, 18:1, 20:1*]
Bus Knee
Selects the bus limiter Knee. [Hard, Soft]
Bus Attack
Selects the bus limiter attack
Mode
Selects the Mode of Automix [MixAssist, Dugan Automixer] and whether it is disabled* or enabled.
Note: Set a toggle shortcut or mapped controller button to enable/disable the selected automixer mode to allow you to quickly
compare the effect of the automixer being on or off.
Channel Selection
Selects which of channels 1-8 are included into the automix group(s). A channel can also be selected for automix from channel
screens 1-8. Enter a channel screen 1-8 then use the Select knob to scroll to and toggle the Automix on or off for that channel.
Purple text is On, white text is Off.
Note: If a channel is enabled for automixing, it sets post-fade routing of that channel to Bus L and R in the Channel Bus Sends menu
and the Bus L and R routing menus. Channels can still be unrouted or routed pre-fade to Bus L and R but note that automixing only
applies to post-fade channels.
Note: Automixer is only available with sample rates of 47952, 48000, and 48048 Hz.
To show which Dugan group the channel is in, the Dugan gain display bar is left-aligned for fully L, right-aligned for fully R and
center-aligned for any other pan value. When a channel is routed to both Dugan groups (Bus L and R), the center-aligned meter bar
shows the least attenuated value.
The Channel Screen shows the Dugan meter overlaid within the horizontal channel meter. The Dugan meter scale and indication is
the same as in the main meter screen.
The ring LEDs for ch 1-6 show Dugan gain for ch 1-6. The ring LEDs begin to glow purple at 15 dB attenuation and increase in
intensity at 0 dB attenuation.
MixAssist Mode
When a channel is active (not attenuated), it’s ring LED (channels 1-6 only) and LCD meter view channel indication illuminate green.
There are two independent MixAssist processing groups, Bus L and Bus R. Channels 1-8 can be routed to Bus L, Bus R, both
equally (Center), or both unequally (L or R pan increments) by using a channel’s pan control.
Peak Hold
Time Selects the peak hold time for the meter preset. [Off, 1*-5s., Infinity]
Meter Ballistics
Selects the ballistics for the meter preset.
VU: The meter bar ballistics emulate the 300 ms attack and 300 ms release times of a VU meter. VU meter ballistics correspond
closely to how the human ear perceives loudness. This provides a good visual indication of how loud a signal will be.
VU + Peak Hold: Same as the VU setting but with the addition of a peak hold segment. See Peak Hold Time above.
PPM: The meter bar ballistics have instantaneous attack time and slow release time. Ideal for monitoring actual signal peaks. The
release time can be set using the PPM Release Time setting.
PPM + Peak Hold: Same as the PPM setting but with the addition of a peak hold segment. See Peak Hold Time above.
Meter Range
Selects the range of the meters from bottom to top of scale. [50 dB*, 40 dB, 20 dB]
Meter View
Track Names
Selects whether track name, output name, and bus name are displayed in the meter preset. [Enabled*, Disabled]
Gray Meters
Selects gray meter when record track is disarmed. [When disarmed*,Off]
When in LR, Outputs and LR, and Buses Meter Views, turn the Select knob to scroll to an output or bus. Pressing the Select knob
acts as a shortcut to that outputs or bus routing screen. Pressing the Select knob acts as a shortcut to that outputs or bus routing
screen.
Timecode Mode
Selects the timecode mode of operation. [Off, Record Run, Free Run*, Free Run Auto Mute, Free Run Jam Once, 24 Hour Run
(ToD), 24 Hour Run Auto Mute, Ext TC, Ext TC - Auto Record, Ext TC Continuous, Ext TC Cont. - Auto Record]
Frame Rate
Selects the current frame rate. [23.98*, 24, 25, 29.97 ND, 29.97 DF, 30 ND, 30 DF]
Hold Off
Selects the amount of time incoming Timecode needed to be considered valid timecode prior to entering record when in auto-record
mode. [0.0*-8.0 seconds in steps of 0.1 sec.]
Jam
Indicates the Received TC, Generator TC and the calculated difference between the two. Received and Generator UBits are shown.
Jamming to external TC and UBits is supported.
Jam TC- Toggle Rtn/Fav switch to jam to external TC.
Set Generator TC
Provides the ability to start rolling internal TC from a manually entered value in the format of HH:MM:SS:ff.
Lemo Options
Selects pin-2 and pin-5 options for TC Lemo connector.
1. Pin-2 - [TC In*, WCK In, WCK Out]
2. Pin-5 - [TC Out, WCK Out]
Display Mode
Selects whether to display Big Timecode or Big A-Time.
Sync Reference
Selects current sync reference for all transport modes (record, stop and play). [Internal*, Word Clock, LTC In, AES 1,2 (XLR 1)] Ring
LEDs flash yellow while locking to the selected sync reference. Once locked, the LEDs will stop flashing. Should the LEDs flash
indefinitely, the selected sync reference has not been detected. Locking can take up to 30 seconds.
Note: Expansion port accessory AES inputs cannot be used as a sync reference source.
Sample Rate
Selects the current sample rate. 12 Track recording is supported at all sample rates. [44100, 47952, 48000*, 48048, 96000, 192000
Hz]
Bit Depth
Selects the current bit depth. [16, 24*]
Pre-roll Time
Selects the amount of Pre-roll recording. Adjustable in 1 second increments. [0*-10 s.] Higher sampling rates reduce the maximum
allowed Pre-roll, 2 seconds is available at 192 kHz.
Post-roll Time
Selects the amount of Post-roll recording. Adjustable in 1 second increments. [0*-10 s.] If a recording is stopped prematurely, press
record within the post-roll time. The machine will continue to record into the original file. Useful for when directors call ‘cut’
prematurely. During the post roll period, the transport joystick ring LED shows orange. Pressing stop again during the post-roll
period cancels the post roll and stops recording.
Selects the sources for each recording media as well as the type of file recorded. Tracks may be routed to media to be recorded as
AAC (LR or Bus 1,2 only), WAV Mono, or WAV Poly files. (Green text box= WAV Mono file, Blue text box= WAV Poly file, Orange
text box = AAC)
Select whether Mono or Poly WAV files are recorded in standard BWF or RF64 format using the Rtn/Fav toggle. BWF WAV files
seamlessly auto-split to a new file when the max BWF 4GB file size is reached. Split files can be joined in any DAW. RF64 WAV files
have a much higher maximum file size and do not require auto-splitting.
Note: Most DAWs support WAV RF64. Some NLEs do not. It is recommended to check NLE compatibility before using RF64.
Also: 8-Series Q-marks are not supported when RF64 is selected.
Tracks L/R and Bus1/2 can also be recorded as AAC audio files. (Orange text box). AAC files are ideal for transcription.
Select the AAC Bit Rate using the */** toggle switches. [32, 64, 128, 192, 256 kbps]
Select the WAV Format using the Rtn/Fav toggle switches. RF64 allows for WAV files larger than 4 GB.
Auto-Split
Takes that are auto-split due to the 4 GB limit of BWF format are also suffixed using the same A, B, C...incrementation.
Record Split
Takes that are split when pressing record during recording increment the file’s take number.
False Takes
Press HP + << to false take the last recording. This moves the last take to the FALSETAKES folder at the root of each drive and
decrements the take number in preparation for the next take.
Note: Q-marks are only supported when using the BWF WAV format, not the RF64 WAV format.
Note: Q-marks in auto-split files (due to BWF 4GB max size) are not supported.
Q-marks can also be added and deleted using Toggle Switch Action shortcuts, Midi mapped buttons, and USB Keyboard buttons ‘Q’
and ‘delete’.
Tip: To check the last few seconds or minutes of a long take, Press >> after the last Q-mark has been passed. This will pause
playback at the end of the take. Then rewind or reverse scrub to the point of interest and press play.
Press Menu + HP knob as a shortcut to the Take List. Highlight any take in the Take List, then press play to play it back.
Record Folder
Record Folders are containers for storing recorded audio files and sound reports. They can be nested up to three levels deep. Set a
record folder as ‘current’ to determine where audio files and sound reports are stored.
Record folders are unified across all three media (SSD, SD1, SD2) - any actions taken on a record folder (NEW, SET CURRENT,
Delete Folder, Create Sound Report) affect that record folder on all three media.
To select an existing record folder or to create a new record folder, go to the Take List and use the */** toggles to access the REC
FOLDER menu. By default, the RECORD FOLDER menu displays a list of record folders at root. Navigate to nested folders by
highlighting a record folder and pressing the Sel/HP knob. To navigate back up the folder hierarchy, press Menu or select “\..” at the
top of the folder list. The screen’s title identifies the folder path.
Custom
Files are stored in a custom-named folder; the Custom folder name is embedded as Tape metadata in the recorded audio files.
Project
Files are stored in a folder with a name determined by the Project name entered in the Take List > Next take Edit Screen. The
Project folder name is embedded as Tape metadata.
Daily
Files are stored in a folder whose name is in the format yyYmmMdd. When a Daily folder is selected, the Date is embedded as Tape
metadata.
When a daily folder is selected as the current record folder, a daily folder popup is displayed when the first recording after midnight
is completed. The daily folder popup displays the following message:
“Store this recording and subsequent recordings in the previous day’s folder or store in a new daily folder? [Previous], [New]”
Tip: To store new recordings in the root directory, highlight ‘None’ in the Root screen then select the */** toggle (SET Current). When
‘None’ is selected, the date is embedded as Tape metadata.
Tip: To easily find the current record folder when it is nested within another folder, navigate the path indicated by orange record
folder names.
Tip: The Record Folder menu can also be accessed by selecting ‘Folder’ from the Take List>Next Take Edit screen. This also shows
the current record folder’s full path.
Tip: Program a Toggle Switch or map a shortcut for one-touch access to the Record Folder menu.
The sound report’s filename format is [Date]_[RecFolderName]_Media.CSV, where Date is a 6-digit string based on the Date Format
setting in the System>Time/Date menu and Media = ‘ ‘ for SSD, ‘_1’ for SD1, and ‘_2’ for SD2.
For example: Rec Folder name = ROLL8, Date = 13th Aug, 2020 would appear as:
081320_ROLL8.csv (on SSD)
081320_ROLL8_1.csv (on SD1)
081320_ROLL8_2.csv (on SD2)
Delete Folder
Permanently deletes the selected record folder and all its contents including sub folders on all three media. This action cannot be
undone.
When the monophonic WAV file format is selected (in the Record/Play > Track to Media Routing menu), all mono files created for a
take follow the name of the take and are stored in a take folder within the selected record folder.
1. Notes: Edit notes for the selected take. Maximum 200 characters including Sticky Notes.
2. Sticky Notes (next take only): edit sticky notes that are automatically prepended to subsequent takes. Maximum 50
characters.
3. Scene: Edit scene name. Maximum 50 characters.
4. Take: edit Take Number.
5. Circle (current or previous takes only): circle a take. Prepends “@” symbol to take name.
6. Project Edit Project name. Maximum 20 characters. This will become the record folder name if Project is selected as the
Folder Type.
7. Delete (current or previous takes only): moves a selected take to a drive’s Trash folder.
8. Rename: Renames a take’s name. Project, Scene, and Take iXML/bEXT metadata are also updated provided renaming
does not change or delete the scene and/or take separator characters.
If a take is renamed and the edit doesn’t conform to the current Filename Format setting (with designators), it becomes a
freeform take name and metadata will not be updated.
If a take is renamed and the edit conforms to the current Filename Format setting (with designators), the metadata is
updated even after renaming a freeform take name.
If a take is renamed and the edit contains a letter following the take designator, the take number metadata is updated only
with the numbers immediately following the designator.
9. Track Names: edit track names. Maximum 20 characters. A10-TX and A20-Mini transmitter names can be optionally used
to populate the associated isolated track names. See SL-2 Option Use Track Names for more.
The ‘+’ prefix is added to a filename if an existing take is edited such that it would duplicate the name of another existing take in the
same record folder. The ‘A’ suffix is added if the NEXT take’s name is edited such that when recording is started, it would duplicate
the name of an existing take in the same record folder.
The File List is also accessible from the Take List by pressing the Tone Switch.
Highlight any WAV file in the File List, then press play to play it back.
Delete Folder/File
Delete Folders and Files from the File List’s Options Menu.
Rec Folder name = ROLL8, Date = 13th Aug, 2020 would appear as:
081320_ROLL8.csv (on SSD)
081320_ROLL8_1.csv (on SD1)
081320_ROLL8_2.csv (on SD2)
Tip: It is possible to simultaneously create sound reports on all three media for the current Record Folder by setting a Toggle Switch
Action, Controller Midi Mapped button, or GPIO to the ‘Create Sound Report’ function.
Erase/Format
Formats the selected drive. SD1 and SD2 cards can be given a custom volume name during the format process.
Filename Format
Selectable naming conventions for recorded files. Selectable between Scene (Slate) T,+,- Take, or Project ;,%, = Scene (Slate) T,+,-
Take.
Erase/Format SD1
Select to erase/format SD1. Enter a custom volume name for the SD card when prompted.
Erase/Format SD2
Select to erase/format SD2. Enter a custom volume name for the SD card when prompted.
Tip: Headphone gain can be adjusted while in File Transfer mode allowing HP volume change while listening to computer USB
audio when selected as a source for headphones.
Slate Routing
Selects the destination(s) for the slate mic.
A. Track: [1-8]
B. Output: [L,R, X1-X4]
C. Bus: [L,R, 1-4]
D. HP- [HP-L, HP-R]
E. Duck Bus Program (Prgm) By: [0 to -40 dB, -inf]
F. Duck HP Program (Prgm) By: [0 to -40 dB, -inf]
RTN Gain
Selects the gain for Rtn in 1 dB increments. [0-30 dB]
Duck HP Program By
Ducks all audio sent to headphones by a user defined amount.
When sending coms or slate signal to outputs the program routed to that output is replaced by the com or slate signal.
The SL-2 Receiver Slot Power or the 8-Series power must be cycled after performing any action that causes a receiver to reboot.
Powering receivers on and off from the receiver’s user interface is not supported.
SL-2
The SL-2 is a two slot-in wireless receiver integration system that easily mounts to the top panel of any 8-Series mixer-recorder. It
accepts UniSlot and SuperSlot™ wireless receivers from a variety of manufacturers. Power to the SL-2 and receivers is supplied by
the 8-Series mixer-recorder – no external DC connector is needed on the SL-2. Analog or digital audio is sent from the receivers into
the mixer-recorder via the expansion port, reducing messy cabling for power and audio connectivity.
The SL-2 offers antenna distribution to slot-in receivers, spreading out the placement of antennas for better RF performance.
Additionally the SL-2 allows for control of smart antennas and includes two filtered antenna outputs to external receivers via MCX
ports. The rear panel of the SL-2 is equipped with two TA3 connectors for an additional four inputs of AES3 audio and two 4-pin
Hirose DC Outputs, each supplying up to 500 mA.
Up to eight channels of audio can be routed from the SL-2 to the 833. The eight channels can be comprised of audio from dual or
quad channel slot in receivers and/or the four AES inputs.
The SL-2 mounts to the 833 via the multi-pin expansion port located on the top panel. Please refer to the SL-2 User Guide for panel
descriptions and installation instructions.
WARNING! To avoid potential hardware damage, turn off power to the SL-2 slot prior to removing and inserting receivers. Slot
power can be turned off in Menu>System>Expansion Port, Menu>SuperSlot>Options>Slot Power, or by powering off the 8-Series
Mixer-Recorder.
To route an SL-2 Source to a channel, access a channel’s source screen and select from A1-A4, B1-B4, AES 1-4. When A1-A4,
B1-B4 are selected as source, use the */** toggle as a shortcut to the selected receiver’s setup screen.
For SL-2 A1-A4, B1-B4, and AES 1-4 sources, channel trim gain range is -20 to 50 dB.
When the A10-RX is receiving signal from the A20-Mini, the trim gain of the associated 8-Series channel is 0 to 60 dB. See
GainForward.
RF Overload LEDS
Each antenna input on the front panel of the SL-2 has an associated LED that displays incoming RF level status.
Red = approaching RF overload threshold of the SL-2
Orange = approaching overload threshold of digital wireless systems
Off = no overload
To disable the LEDs go to SL-2 Options>Antenna LEDs and set to Off.
Select the SuperSlot menu to enter the SL-2 Receiver Overview screen which displays information for all receivers connected to the
SL-2. Hold Meter then press the HP knob to quickly access the Receiver Overview screen.
A1-A4, B1-B4
Use the Select knob to scroll and select an SL-2 channel to access the individual Receiver Setup screen. See Receiver Setup
Screen for more details.
RF Frequency
Displays the frequency of the receiver in MHz.
RF Level History
Displays the RF level over a period of time. Duration of RF History is set in SL-2 Options>RF History Duration pa- rameter from 30
to 600 seconds in 10 s steps, default duration is 30 seconds. The taller the green bar, the healthier the received RF signal. A yellow
bar signifies receiver is approaching RF overload (A20-RX only). A red bar signifies receiver RF overload (A10-RX and A20-RX
only).
RX Antenna Icon
Indicates RF signal status.
Solid white = locked to antenna signal
Flashing white = antenna signal unlocked
Solid Red = antenna signal overload
Gray = no receiver detected
RF Scan
Instigates an RF Scan of the environment using one or both receivers depending on the receiver model. Use the */** toggle switch to
start the scan.
Options
Access the SL-2 Options menu by using the Rtn/Fav toggle switch.
DC Outputs
Enable/disable DC Outputs 1 and/or 2.
Antenna Attenuation
Apply attenuation to reduce the possibility of RF overload. Select from 0 to -18 dB in 6 dB steps.
Antenna Filter
Select the SL-2’s front end filter to reduce the likelihood of out-of-band RF noise affecting range. Select from Wideband, 470-614
MHz, 542-694 MHz, 606-770 MHz, 770-960 MHz, 1240-1525 MHz.
Antenna LEDs
Antenna LEDs can be toggled On*/Off.
RF History Duration
Sets the duration of the RF HISTORY plot. Select from 30 to 600 seconds in 10 second steps, default duration is 30 seconds.
Antenna Frequency
Sets the filter freq of Antenna A or B. Frequencies available depend on the Wisycom LFA/BFA model, F1, F2, F3, or F6. Please refer
to the Wisycom documentation for filter frequency detailed information. [When Filter is set to NB, Frequency is fixed at 940-960 and
cannot be changed. When Filter is set to WB, Freq can be set to 410-810, 410-700, 410-600, 470-810, 470-700, 470-600, 510-810,
510-700, 510-600. When Filter is set to Tunable, Filter Frequency can be adjusted in 40 MHz blocks from 410-450 to 690-730 in 1
MHz steps.]
Display Brightness
Sets Antenna A/B display brightness in increments of 1. [1-10]
Display Color
Sets Antenna A/B display color. [White, Black]
Display Timeout
Sets the duration of Antenna A/B display timeout in steps of 1 second. [5 to 240 seconds]
Display Rotate
Sets the rotation of the Antenna A/B display. [0 or 180]
LED
Sets Antenna A/B LED activity. [On or Off]
Version Info
Displays system information about the Wisycom LFA-B-F1.
2: RF Frequency
Set Receiver channel frequency in MHz or by TV channel and Sub channel.
3: Q-meter
The A20-RX/A10-RX Q-meter displays the difference between the signal from the transmitter and any interference using five bars.
When a frequency without little to no interference is selected, the Q-meter will display five bars. Some third party receiver’s have
their own version of this meter.
4: RX Antenna Icon
Indicates RF signal status.
Solid white = locked to antenna signal
Flashing white = antenna signal unlocked
Solid Red = antenna signal overload
Gray = no receiver detected
(Not applicable to the Lectrosonics SRb/SRc which uses ‘P’ to indicate pilot tone lock status.)
5: RF Level History
Displays the RF level over a period of time. Duration of RF History is set in SuperSlot>SL-2/SL-6 Options>RF History Duration
parameter from 30 to 600 seconds in 10 s steps, default duration is 30 s. The taller the bar, the healthier the received RF signal.
6: RF Scan
Instigates an RF Scan of the environment using an individual SuperSlot receiver. Use the Mic/Tone toggle switch to start the scan. A
red line signifies the squelch level of the Wisycom MCR54 and MCR42. Squelch level is only displayed in individual RX Scan
screens and not in the RF Overview Scan screen.
7: Options
Provides access to additional settings of the selected receiver. Options vary depending on the manufacturer and model of the
receiver selected. Please refer to the user guide provided by the manufacturer of the receiver for more details.
8: TX Battery Level
Displays the battery level of the paired TX, if applicable.
Green = over 50%
Yellow = over 20%
Orange = over 10%
Red = less than 10%.
9: TX Record Status
Indicates the record status of the paired transmitter, if supported.
Red = recording
GainForward (A20-Mini)
The A20-Mini transmitter introduces GainForward, a new feature that eliminates the need to adjust microphone preamplifier gain at
the wireless transmitter. Audio levels from the transmitter are controlled directly at the mixer’s trim control. If the talent speaks too
softly or emotes too loudly after being “wired” with the transmitter, simply adjust the transmitter gain with the mixer’s gain trim. Read
more about GainForward at:
https://www.sounddevices.com/gainforward-explained/
When 833 is receiving A20-Mini signal via SuperSlot the 833s’ trim gain is adjustable from 0 to 60 dB. The A10-RX Receiver
screens display the associated 833 channel’s low cut, audio overload, and limiter activity.
Lectrosonics SRC
The SL-2 or SL-6 Receiver Slot Power or the 8-Series power must be cycled after performing any action from the Shure ADX5D
user interface requiring the receiver to reboot. This includes powering the Shure ADX5D on and off, changing Transmission Mode,
changing 3rd Party Control, or performing a Factory Reset.
SuperSlot Control of the Shure ADX5D is only available when Device Cfg >> Advanced >> 3rd Party Control is On.
When the Shure ADX5D is in High Density Transmission mode, Groups and Channels must be set from the ADX5D interface.
Wisycom MCR42
1. Level- Selects the level of the tone generator from -20 - 0 dBFS in 1 dB increments. [-20 - 0 dBFS]
2. Frequency- Selects the frequency of the tone from 100 to 10 kHz in 10 Hz steps. [100-10 kHz]
3. Track- [1-8]
4. Output- [L,R, X1-X4]
5. Bus- [L,R, 1-4]
Notification Bells
Selects settings for the notification bells.
Fader Calibration
Selects the option to manually calibrate all faders.
Brightness
Selects the brightness of the LED display and front panel LEDs.
1. LED Brightness- Selects the front panel LED brightness in 1% steps. [1%-100%].
2. Selects the front panel LCD display brightness in 10% steps. [10%-100%].
Time/Date
Selects the current date and time.
Bluetooth
Enables or disables Bluetooth LE [On, Off]. Set to On to connect to iPad or Android SD-Remote application. Setup a password to
protect against unauthorized remote control.
Expansion Port
Enables powering of accessories via the top panel multi-pin port [On, Off]. Accessories include the XL-AES and SL-2.
Version Info
Indicates current firmware version.
Regulatory
Displays relevant compliance information.
Plugins
833 +4
Adds four fully featured ISO channels/record tracks, turning your 833 into a 12 channel, 16 track mixer-recorder.
NoiseAssist
Suppress background noise instantly on-location with the optional NoiseAssist plugin for 8-Series mixer-recorders. Choose between
2, 4, and 8 instances that can be applied to any channel or bus!
CEDAR sdnx
CEDAR sdnx brings CEDAR Audio Ltd.’s highly-regarded noise suppression technology to 8-Series mixer-recorders. Choose
between 2, 4, and 8 instances that can be applied to any channel or bus!
To Install a Plugin
Ensure the firmware version is compatible with the plugin.
Show Plugins
Allows you to see which Plugins have been installed on the device.
Channels 9-12 setup screens are accessed via Menu>Channels 7-12. All features of Channels 1-8 are available on Channels 9-12.
When the +4 Plugin is installed, various menus, UI elements, and functions are updated to support channels 9-12.
● Meter View option LR, 1-12
● Routing menus for Channel Grouping, Buses, Outputs, Automixer, and Noise Suppression (if NoiseAssist or CEDAR sdnx
Plugin is installed)
● SD-Remote offers full support of metering and control of channels 9-12
● External Controllers offer full support of channels 9-12
● Ch 9-12 Trim/PFL (Latch) options added to Toggle Switch Actions: Mic, Select + Mic, HP + Mic, *, **, Rtn, Select + Rtn,
HP + Rtn, Fav, Select + Fav, HP + Fav
CEDAR sdnx
Over the last few decades, CEDAR has become synonymous with real-time, low-latency, and artifact-free audio restoration and
noise suppression. CEDAR Audio Ltd.’s sdnx brings CEDAR’s highly-regarded noise suppression technology to 8-Series
mixer-recorders. This optional plugin reduces unwanted background noises so you can better capture dialog.
CEDAR sdnx has near-zero latency and one simple control for adjusting the amount of suppression. Up to 8 instances of CEDAR
sdnx are available per mixer-recorder/device. These instances can run on any combination of isolated channels or bus. The plugin
functions at sample rates up to and including 96 kHz.
Previously, using CEDAR with an 8-Series mixer-recorder required a separate hardware unit like the CEDAR DNS 2. This
collaboration between CEDAR and Sound Devices marks the first time CEDAR technology has been available in-unit for any
portable mixer-recorder. Now, even ultra-light portable recording setups have access to CEDAR noise suppression.
CEDAR sdnx requires 8-Series firmware v7.40 or higher. Want to try before you buy? The 2-instance version of the plugin is
available as a demo on 8-Series running v7.40 or higher.
Using NoiseAssist is easy and fast - simply adjust the amount of background noise to suppress and NoiseAssist will do the rest.
Suppression happens in real time with just 1 ms of latency - no “learning” required. Depending on the plugin purchased, two-, four-,
or eight- instances of NoiseAssist can run on any combination of isolated channels and/or any bus.
This algorithm is optimized specifically for high-end professional film and television dialog. It accurately distinguishes the desired
speech signal from background noise using proprietary advanced multi-band frequency, level, and statistical calculations.
NoiseAssist maintains the excellent frequency bandwidth of the audio channel, while effectively suppressing the background noise
and reverberation.
Try the two-instance version of NoiseAssist Plugin in demo mode (tone bursts replace audio every 10 seconds) until the NoiseAssist
Plugin license is purchased and installed. The NoiseAssist demo mode is disabled when the 8-Series is powered down.
Note: Set a toggle shortcut or mapped controller button to enable/ disable Noise Suppression to allow you to quickly compare the
effect of it being on or off.
Channel/Bus Selection
Selects up to eight (depending on plugin installed) instances of Noise Suppression and which channels and/or Buses it is applied to.
If the maximum number of instances are already selected, deselect one instance before selecting another.
Note: Noise Suppression only affects the mix of ISOs and return bus sources when applied to buses receiving audio from L, R, B1,
B2 buses.
Note: NoiseAssist and CEDAR sdnx cannot be used at the same time. NoiseAssist is only available at sample rates of 48.048 kHz
and less. CEDAR sdnx is only available at sample rates of 96 kHz and less.
For a Channel: Enter the channel screen using the PFL toggle. Use the Select knob to scroll to and enter the NoiseAssist (NA) or
CEDAR sdnx (NX) field. Rotate the Select knob to set the amount of Noise Suppression applied to the channel.
For a Bus L,R: Go to Menu>Buses and select Bus L or Bus R, whichever has been enabled for Noise Suppression. Push the */**
toggle to the right to select the NA or NX parameter and rotate the Select knob to set the amount of Noise Suppression applied to
the bus.
For a Bus B1-B4: Go to Menu>Buses and select Bus 1-4, whichever has been enabled for Noise Suppression. Push Tone toggle to
display more options then push the */** toggle to the right to select the NA or NX parameter and rotate the Select knob to set the
amount of Noise Suppression applied to the bus.
Channels or Buses enabled for Noise Suppression show a diamond in their meters. The diamond moves based on the amount of
Noise Suppression averaged across all the frequency bands that have signal in them.
The lower the diamond on the meter scale, the more the background noise is being attenuated. The diamond moves towards the top
of the scale as the audio signal changes (for example, when a mic picks up dialog) - this indicates that the Noise Suppression
algorithm is learning and adapting to the signal in real-time.
To effectively use Noise Suppression, start with the default setting of -6 dB and dial in more or less depending on your environment.
An ideal setting will reduce the background noise without coloring the sound.
Note: NoiseAssist and CEDAR sdnx are not automatically linked when channels or buses are linked.
Controllers connect via the 833’s USB-A port either directly or via a USB hub.
Mapping
Selects Mapping menu. Mapping provides the ability to learn controller button presses and map them to a desired function.
Function Action
Channel Sends on Faders Shortcut to put Bus sends on linear faders/toggle on/off
Edit Take Notes Edits the notes for the current take
Edit Take Number Edits the number for the current take
EQ Mode Spills EQ parameters over scribble strips, Fader Bank right to view last parameter. Push
and hold V-Pot 1 to toggle EQ on/off, push each band’s amplitude V-Pot to toggle on/off
each band, push each band’s Q V-Pot to toggle EQ type Shelf/Peak.
Fat Ch. Mode Spills fat channel parameters across scribble strips
Fat Ch. Mode Bus Spills fat channel bus parameters across scribble strips
L-ident Identifies left channel output by varying amplitude vs. right channel with constant amplitude
Mix Low Cut Mode Activates all V-Pots to Low Cut mode on every channel. Push to reset to O Hz.
Mix Pan Mode Activates all V-Pots to Pan mode on every channel. Push to center pan
Mix Trim Mode Activates all V-Pots to Trim mode on every channel. Push to enter pan mode.
Nav Down Moves the highlighted selection up one in matrix screens, emulates HP knob down in Home
screen
Nav Up Moves the highlighted selection down one in matrix screens, emulates HP knob up In Home
screen
Play Remain Time Selects the remaining time in the LED timecode display
Scene Inc Brings up the Scene Inc Dialog box for incrementing Scene Name according to the setting
in Files>Scene Increment Mode
Scene Name Brings up the Scene Name Edit virtual keyboard screen for editing the current take’s scene
during record and the next take’s scene during stop
Select Selects the currently highlighted selection in menus and matrix screens
Take Notes Edit Brings up the Notes Edit virtual keyboard screen for editing the current take’s notes during
record and the next take’s notes during stop
Take Number Edit Brings up the Take Number Edit screen for editing the current take number during record
and the next take number during stop
Note: Last stored gain values are held over a power cycle and may require the adjustment of a physical fader or trim control to
pickup the last stored gain value.
Note: Soft Fader/Trim Pickup also works in conjunction with the SD-Remote. The 8-Series trim/faders pickup control only once they
have reached the last gain set in SD-Remote.
When Soft Fader/Trim Pickup is Off and a controller is connected, the 8-Series front panel controls are disabled unless controlled by
SD-Remote. Use SD-Remote Hide Faders function to prevent SD-Remote changing fader gains accidentally.
Note: When a non-motorized fader controller and SD-Remote are both used at the same time, the controller will not soft pickup fader
or trim control.
CL-16
Selects CL-16 menu.
1. LED Brightness: 5-100% in increments of 5% (100% is default)
2. LCD Brightness: 5-100% in increments of 5% (100% is default)
3. Long Button Press: 300-1000 ms in increments of 5 ms (500 ms is default)
4. Bank Disable: On or Off (off is default)
5. GPIO Configuration: Opens menu to display GPIO_1 - GPIO_8 (see below for options and details)
6. Channel Colors: Opens a menu to assign background colors to LCD channel strips 1-32.
7. Group Colors: Opens menu to assign Group 1-4 Color (Defaults: 1=Yellow, 2=Orange, 3=Light Blue, 4=Light Green).
Color options: Yellow, Orange, Light Blue, Light Green, Green, Light Brown, Brown, Violet, Pink.
GPIO Outputs can be used to drive LEDs with a proper series resistor. Resistor values vary from LED to LED, 470 ohms is a good
starting point.
Input/Output
Toggle on Mic/Tone Switch
Defaults
GPIO_1=Record, 2=Play, 3=Stop, 4=None, 5=None, 6=Record, 7=Play, 8=Stop
Available Options
None, Auto Mixer On/Off, Bus Mode, Channel Groups Edit, Channel Sends on Faders, Channel Source Edit, Circle Take, Com Send
1, Com Send 1 (Latch), Com Send 1 (Momentary), Com Send 2, Com Send 2 (Latch), Com Send 2 (Momentary), Com Rtn 1, Com
Rtn 2, Create Sound Report, Dante Out Edit, Edit Scene Name, Edit Take Notes, Edit Take Number, EQ Mode, Fader Bank Left,
Fader Bank Right, False Take, Fast Fwd, Fat Ch Mode, Fat Ch Mode Bus, Fav HP Preset, Fav Toggle, Home, HP Presets Menu,
Jog Is HP, Jog Is Select, Jog Wheel Press, L-Ident, LR Returns Meter, Menu, Meter, Mic Toggle, Mix Low Cut Mode, Mix Pan Mode,
Mix Trim Mode, Nav Down, Nav Left, Nav Right, Nav Up, Out Mode, Play, Play Remain Time, Record, Rewind, Rtn A, Rtn B, Rtn C,
Rtn Toggle, SL-6 Receiver Overview, Scene Inc, Scene Name, Select, Slate, Slate (Latch), Slate (Momentary), Stop, Take List, Take
Notes Edit, Take Number Edit, Timecode Jam, Toggle Jog is Select, Tone, Tone Toggle, *Toggle, **Toggle
Record bell:
GPIO pin 1 settings:-
● Output
● Active Low
● Record
Lighting fan control (Fan requires +5 V on its trigger input to turn off):
GPIO pin 6 settings:
● Output
● Active High
● Record
CL-12
Selects the CL-12 menu. The CL-12 is a 12 channel linear fader controller with control over fader gain, PFL, Arm, EQ, buses,
outputs, coms, transport, metadata, and more. For detailed setup and operational information, please refer to the CL-12 User Guide.
Note that the CL-12 Linear Fader Controller cannot be used with another controller.
CL-12 menu settings:
1. L-X2 Level Controls: sets whether the L-X2 pots control bus level or output level or whether they are disabled altogether.
2. L-X2 Metering: sets whether the L-X2 meters display bus or output levels.
3. L-X2 Routing: sets whether L-X2 routing is to buses L-X2 or outputs L-X2.
4. LED Brightness: sets CL-12 LED brightness
5. SEL Follows PFL: selects whether a channel is automatically selected when its PFL is engaged.
1. Require Shift for Arm: When selected, “Shift” on external control surface must be pressed simultaneously with “Rec” to
arm tracks. [Off*, On]. Applies to supported 3rd party controllers only.
2. Require Shift for Mute: When selected, “Shift” on external control surface must be pressed simultaneously with “Mute” to
mute channels, buses, and outputs. Applies to supported 3rd party controllers only.
3. Solo Follows Select: Selects whether solo (PFL) mode is engaged on a channel when pressing “Select” from the controller
[Off, On*]. Applies to supported 3rd party controllers only.
4. Main Fader: Sets which bus or output a third party controller’s main fader controls.
5. Multiple Controllers: When multiple controllers are simultaneously connected to the 833 via a USB hub, sets whether they
operate in Spill or Individual mode.
a. SPILL: In Spill Mode, all MCU controllers connected to the 833 work as one big control surface. All controllers
operate in the same mode (e.g. Mix Mode, Bus Mode, Output Mode etc), all channel strips join into a single
fader bank spilled across all controllers, and all controlled parameters spill across all available channel strips.
For example, with the +4 plugin installed, a setup with two 8-fader controllers spills faders 1-8 to controller 1 and
faders 9-12 to controller 2. The USB Hub port number determines which controller is Controller 1 and which is
Controller 2. Controller 1 must be connected to a lower USB port number than Controller 2. On most hubs, the
USB port numbering is not marked in which case, try the various ports to determine the hub’s USB port
numbering.
b. INDIVIDUAL: In Individual Mode, each controller behaves independently with its own operating mode and fader
bank. For example, this allows using one controller for the main channel mix in Mix Mode and a separate
controller for setting up IFB feeds in Bus Mode or Bus Sends on Faders Mode. A third controller could be used
for output control in Output mode.
Control Modes
A Control Mode determines the function of a controller’s faders, VPots, and other buttons.
The VPots are the multi-function encoder knobs positioned above each channel’s fader.
Mix Trim Mode (Home). For mixing channels to the main LR bus. Switches faders to channel faders and VPots to channel trims.
Mutes and Solos buttons are channel mutes and solos respectively.
Fat Channel Mode. For editing various channel parameters including Trim, Pan, Source, Delay, Phase, Limiter, HPF, EQ, and Bus
Sends.
SONOSAX SX-LC8+
Eight channel compact fader bank with faders and channel selects for channels 1-8 plus controls for slate mic, record, and stop. The
Mic, Rec, and Stop buttons are mappable to other functions using the Mapping menu.
Icon Platform X+
Eight channel expansion fader bank with single assignable knob and Select, Mute, Solo and Arm buttons.
Icon Platform B+
Assignable illuminated 50 pad button surface. Allows a user to custom map up to 50 functions.
Connects via USB-A cable, not mini DIN.
Behringer X-Touch
Eight channel trim and fader panel with master volume and additional mappable buttons. Bank switch between 833 channels 1-8
and 9-12 if the +4 plugin is installed.
Refer to the ‘Waves MidiPlus Fit Controller for the 8-Series - User Reference’ for more information.
*/**
[Jam Menu, Jam A20-Mini Menu, Circle Take, Slate, Slate (Latch), Slate (Moment), Com Send, Com Send (Latch), Com Send
(Moment), Rtn, Com Rtn, Auto Mixer On/Off, Noise Suppression On/Off, Take List, Next Scene Name, Take Notes, Take Number,
Current Scene Name, New Scene Name, Ch 7 Trim/PFL (latch), Ch 8 Trim/PFL (latch), Ch 7 Fader /PFL (latch), Ch 8 Fader/PFL
(latch) Add Q-mark, Delete Q-mark, Create Sound Report, Record Folder, No Action}
* + SELECT
[Ch 7 Trim/PFL (Moment), No Action]
* + HP
[Ch 8 Trim/PFL (Moment), No Action]
** + SELECT
[Ch 7 Fader/PFL (Moment), No Action]
** + HP
[Ch 8 Fader/PFL (Moment), No Action]
Current Scene Name Edits the current take’s scene name and applies that to the next take.
New Scene Name Creates a new scene name, adds it to the scene name entry list and in record, applies it to the currently
recording take and next take. In stop, it is applied only to the next take.
Sel + Mic Toggle As defined in the System/Toggle Switch Action menu. Default:
Com Send
Sel + Rtn Toggle As defined in the System/Toggle Switch Action menu. Default:
No Action
Sel + Fav Toggle As defined in the System/Toggle Switch Action menu. Default:
Com Rtn
Channel screen, then hold PFL for >1 sec Edits Channel (Track) Name
Sel + Fav Toggle As defined in the System/Toggle Switch Action menu. Default:
Com Rtn 1
Keystroke Description
F7 Emulates * toggle
F8 Emulates ** toggle
Ctrl+R Record
Ctrl+S Stop
Up arrow Emulates HP knob rotate clockwise in most screens except channel screen where it emulates the Sel knob rotate
clockwise. Channel screen and matrix screens: navigates up HP vol in home screen, row selection in menus,
parameter adjust
Down arrow Emulates HP knob rotate counter-clockwise in most screens except channel screens where it emulates the Sel
knob rotate counterclockwise Channel screen and matrix screens: navigates down HP vol in home screen, row
selection in menus, parameter adjust
Enter Home Screen: Emulates HP knob press i.e. HP Monitor Source Select List
Menu screens: Emulates HP knob press i.e. Activates selection
Channel screens: Emulates HP knob press
Virtual Keyboard: OK
To use with 833, the X-Keys device must be connected to the USB-A port.
All SD-Remote pictures in this section were captured with SD-Remote connected to a Scorpio. Views and navigation are the same
on the 833 except for fewer channels, buses, and outputs.
SD-Remote is a mobile device application designed to pair with the 833. SD-Remote is available for Android tablets and phones in
the Google Play Store or as an APK from www.sounddevices.com, and for iPhone and iPad in the App Store. An Android tablet can
be hardwired to the 833 via USB or wirelessly connected via Bluetooth LE. An Android phone, iPhone, or iPad wirelessly connects
to the 833 via Bluetooth LE. SD-Remote offers control and display parameters, including the following:
First download and install the SD-Remote app from the Google Play Store or App Store.
Note: It is recommended to close the SD-Remote app before powering down the 8-Series. This will help prevent the SD-Remote app
not connecting after the next boot up. Should SD-Remote not connect to the 8-Series, FULLY close then restart the app.
“No USB Connection” popup will appear when SD-Remote does not detect presence of an 8-Series Mixer-Recorder.
“No Bluetooth Connection” popup will appear when SD-Remote does not detect presence of the selected 8-Series device.
For optimal Bluetooth LE connection, the Sound Devices XL-ANT2.4 Antenna must be fitted to the SMA port of the 8-Series device.
For optimal Bluetooth LE connection, the Sound Devices XL-ANT2.4 Antenna must be fitted to the SMA port of the 8-Series device.
To Remove A Password
Tablet
1. Device Connection
2. Channel Fader
3. Track Arm
4. Channel Meter & Channel screen Access
5. Left & Right Meters
6. Transport Bar
7. Information Window
8. Navigation Bar
Device Connection
Touch the Sound Devices insignia to view a list of available 8-Series Mixer-Recorders to connect via Bluetooth or USB. If already
connected to a device, a ‘Break Connection’ popup will appear to prevent accidental disconnection .
Information Window
Displays current take name, power source icon with remaining voltage (remaining percentage and time with Smart Batteries),
timecode, absolute time, remaining time of SSD, SD1, and SD2, Timecode frames per second, sample rate and bit depth, and sync
source. Display turns red in record and green during playback.
Navigation Bar
Allows quick access to various meter views, Take List, Sound Reports, and Settings. Tablet views allow for quick access to all
available meter screens. Phone view displays 8 (or 12 with the +4 plugin) Channel Metering. Swipe up on the meters to view the
next bank of meters.
Transport Bar
Record, Stop, False Takes, Play, Rewind, and Fast Forward buttons.
Channel Fader
Touch and drag to adjust a channel’s fader gain. On a tablet, the channel name cell above the meter displays the gain dB value as
the fader is adjusted. To prevent accidental fader control, hide the faders by setting Hide Faders to On in the Settings tab.
Track Arms
Touch to arm/disarm channels. To arm/disarm multiple channels during record, touch and hold one arm button, then toggle others. A
new split take will only be created once the held arm button is released.
1. For a tablet, tap its Fat Bus Screen Access touch zone at the bottom of each Bus strip.
2. For a phone, tap its Bus meter.
1. For a tablet, tap its Fat Out Screen Access touch zone at the bottom of each Output strip.
2. For a phone, tap its Output meter. First swipe up in the Bus/Out tab to display the Output meters.
Take List
From the Take List, enter metadata for Next, Current, or previous takes, select a take for playback, or view take information. The
Take List View on a Tablet displays the Take List, Take Edit, and Take Info windows simultaneously. The Take List on a phone
displays the Take List, selecting a take will enter the Take Edit view, selecting the ‘i’ icon will display the Take Info view.
In stop mode, touch a take’s play icon to play back that take.
Take Info
Displays timecode, user bits, frame rate, duration, media, roll/folder, date, time, sample rate, bit depth, channels, and whether the
take is poly- or monophonic.
To create a report from a different day’s folder than the currently active one, go to the 888’s Take List > Next Take > Rec Folder and
highlight the shoot day folder you want to create the report for, then press ‘Set Folder’.
‘[current]’ in orange text appears after the name of the current record folder.
Settings
SD-Remote Version
Displays the version number.
Hide Faders
Turn On to hide faders in the Meter views. Faders are still available in the channel screen.
USB-A
USB-A allows multiple devices to be used to control and monitor various functions of the 833. Should multiple devices be used
simultaneously, the use of a USB-A type hub is required.
USB-C
USB-C allows for high-speed file transfer between a computer and any of the 833’s media.
Note: All other functionality is suspended in USB File Transfer mode.
2-In 2-Out USB audio is available via the USB-C port on the 833. All routing is handled through the channel and output routing
matrices. No special drivers are needed as the built-in OS drivers will work properly.
Windows OS users - 96kHz max sample rate, MacOS users - 192kHz max sample rate.
USB Audio is supported for Windows 10 and above.
Frequency Response
10 Hz to 80 kHz ± 0.5 dB (192 kHz sample rate, re 1 kHz)
THD + Noise
0.005% max (mic in, 1 kHz, 22 Hz–22 kHz BW, trim at 20, fader at 0, -10 dBu in)
Processing Engine
Highly extensible, full FPGA-based audio processing, 3 FPGAs
Six-way ARM multiprocessor system
64-bit audio processing precision
Inputs
Mic/Line inputs: 6 total, all fully featured; 3 on full-size XLR, 3 on TA3
Mic-level inputs: (XLR, TA3): Class-A, discrete differential long-tail pair, 4k ohm input impedance
Line-level inputs: (XLR, TA3,): active-balanced, 4k ohm input impedance
48V phantom: full 10 mA to all 6 inputs simultaneously
8 Total analog inputs: 6 mic-line inputs, 2 on returns
12 Total analog inputs: 8 mic-line inputs, 4 on returns
AES3 or AES42 available on XLR input 1
AES42: +10 V, 250 mA available, mode-1, auto-ASRC
USB Audio: 2 inputs
SL-2 inputs: SuperSlot or UniSlot
Aux (3.5 mm): unbalanced 2-channel, 4k ohm input impedance
Com Rtn (TA3, 3.5mm) balanced, 1-channel, 8k ohm input impedance
External Slate Mic (TA5): balanced, 8k ohm input impedance, menu-selectable 12 V phantom
Buses
6 Buses (L, R, 1-4)
Left and Right Mix Bus receives post-fade isolated channels. Optional NoiseAssist plugin instances can be applied to any bus.
Buses 1-4 can receive pre-fade, post-fade, or independent send level from isolated channels, Return, and Com Return.
High-Pass Filters
Adjustable 10 Hz to 320 Hz, 18 dB/oct. 1st stage analog (before preamp), 2nd stage digital.
Limiters
Limiters available at all channels, buses, headphones, for all sample rates
Analog first stage, all subsequent stages digital
Attack time: adjustable 1 to 200 ms
Release time: adjustable, 50 ms to 1000 ms
Threshold: adjustable, -2 dBFS to -12 dBFS
Selectable ratio: inf:1, 20:1, 18:1, 16:1, 14:1, 12:1, 10:1
Knee: soft, hard
Delay
Channel Adjustable 0-50 ms
Output Adjustable 0-500 ms
Maximum Gain
Trim stage (mic input): 76 dB
Trim stage (line input): 50 dB
Fader stage: 16 dB
Bus stage: 16 dB
Headphone stage: 20 dB
Mic-to-Line: 108 dB
Mic-to-Headphone: 112 dB
TA5 (along with mic input pins) for single connection to headset + mic
High output, 4 ohm output impedance, 400 mW + 400 mW at each connector, all individually driven
Compatible with headphones of any impedance
Outputs
XLR (L, R) active-balanced, 250/3.2k/120 ohms (mic/-10/line)
TA3 (X1/X2) active-balanced, 250/3.2k/120 ohms (mic/-10/line)
3.5mm (X3/X4): unbalanced, stereo, 1.8k ohms
Headphone Outputs
¼”, 3.5 mm
TA5 (along with mic input pins) for single connection to headset + mic
High output, 4 ohm output impedance, 400 mW + 400 mW at each connector, all individually driven
Compatible with headphones of any impedance
A/D converters
32-bit, 120 dB, A-weighted dynamic range typical
Sampling rates 44.1 kHz, 47.952 kHz, 48 kHz, 48.048 kHz, 96 kHz, 192 kHz
Digital Outputs
AES3 transformer-balanced, in pairs; 1-2 (XLR-L), 3-4 (XLR-R), 110 ohm, 2 V p-p, AES and S/PDIF compatible
Recording
Internal 256 GB SSD; two removable SD Cards, 10% over-provisioned for optimum performance
Selectable bit depth 16 or 24-bit
Simultaneous recording to internal SSD and the two SD cards
exFAT formatting
12 tracks (8 iso channels, 4 buses)
Broadcast WAV monophonic and polyphonic file format
64-bit WAV (RF64) monophonic and polyphonic; support for files > 4 GB
AAC 2 track at 48 kHz, selectable bit rate 32, 64, 128, 192, 256 kbps
Noise Suppression
Via optional paid Sound Devices NoiseAssist or CEDAR sdnx Plugins
Two, four, or eight instances of Noise Suppression can run on any combination of isolated channels or buses.
Attenuation range: 0-20 dB
NoiseAssist operates with sampling rates of 44.1 kHz to 48.048 kHz.
CEDAR sdnx operates with sampling rates of 44.1 kHz to 96 kHz.
NoiseAssist audio path latency: 0.77 ms @ 48kHz
CEDAR sdnx audio path latency: 0.27 ms @ 48kHz, 0.14ms @ 96kHz
USB
USB-C (USB 3.1 type 1) for file transfer of internal SSD, both SD Cards
USB-C 2-in/2 out audio streaming
USB-A host for keyboard, external controller, external USB hubs supported for connecting multiple devices
Remote Control
Sound Devices CL-16 Linear Fader Controller
Sound Devices CL-12 Linear Fader Controller
USB MIDI MCU Control - supported 3rd party fader controllers
SD-Remote Android Tablet app via USB or Bluetooth LE
SD-Remote Android Phone app via Bluetooth LE
SD-Remote iPad and iPhone app via Bluetooth LE
USB Keyboard
External Timecode Record Trigger
LCD
320x240, Transflective, excellent sunlight visibility
Larger touchscreen display available via SD-Remote app
Power
External: 10-18 V input on locking TA4 connector,
pin-4 = (+), pin-1 = (-)
Dual rear-mount Sony-style L-mount batteries with chargers
Current Draw, at 12V no battery charging:
All mic preamps off: 730 mA
All mic preamps on: 920 mA
All mic preamps on, 192 kHz sample rate, recording to internal SSD and 2 SD Cards: 1.07 A
Intelligent power-down of unused mic preamps and other internal circuits
Smart Battery telemetry supported via DC Input
Environmental
Operating: -20° C to 60° C, 0 to 90% relative humidity (non-condensing)
Storage: -40° C to 85° C
Dimensions (H x W x D)
Weight
2.75 lbs (unpackaged, without batteries)
1.25 kg (unpackaged, without batteries)
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.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
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:
This device complies with FCC and ISED RF exposure limits for general population / uncontrolled environments.
Cet appareil est conforme à la norme FCC et ISED les limites d’exposition pour la population générale / l’exposition incontrôlée.
A separation distance of at least 20cm must be maintained between the antenna and all persons. This device must not be
co-located with any other antenna or transmitter.
This device (containing FCC ID: XF6-M7DB6, IC: 8407A-M7DB6) has been approved to operate with the antenna type listed below:
No change to the antenna type is permitted. Any change to the antenna could result in the device exceeding the RF exposure
requirements and void the user’s authority to operate the device.
This Device complies with Industry Canada License-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1)
this device may not cause interference, and 2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause
undesired operation of the device.
Cet appareil est conforme avec Industrie Canada, exempts de licence standard RSS (s). Son fonctionne-
ment est soumis aux deux conditions suivantes: 1) ce dispositif ne peut pas causer d’interférences, et 2)
ce dispositif doit accepter toute interférence, y compris les interférences qui peuvent causer un mauvais
fonctionnement de l’appareil.
Declaration of Conformity
This is a non-transferable warranty that extends only to the original purchaser. Sound Devices, LLC will repair or replace the product
at its discretion at no charge. Warranty claims due to severe service conditions will be addressed on an individual basis.
THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. SOUND DEVICES, LLC IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY BREACH OF WARRANTY OR UNDER ANY OTHER LEGAL THEORY. Because some
jurisdictions do not permit the exclusion or limitations set forth above, they may not apply in all cases.
For all service, including warranty repair, please contact Sound Devices for an RMA (return merchandise authorization) before
sending your unit in for repair. Product returned without an RMA number may experience delays in repair. When sending a unit for
repair, please do not include accessories, including SSD drives, CF cards, batteries, power supplies, carry cases, cables, or
adapters unless instructed by Sound Devices. Sound Devices repairs and replacements may be completed using refurbished,
returned or used parts that have been factory certified as functionally equivalent to new parts.
3.5 mm jack
Common small-format audio connector. Often used for headphones and -10 dBV signals for portable audio devices.
AES3
A standard for the exchange of digital audio signals between professional audio devices. An AES3 signal can carry two channels of
PCM audio over balanced, 110 ohm interconnections. AES3 is most commonly interconnected with XLR-3 cables.
AES42
A digital interface protocol for microphones and microphone inputs. Microphones conforming to this standard directly output digital
audio through an XLR or XLD male connector, rather than producing an analog output. AES42 microphones require powering.
Attenuation
A reduction in the level of an audio signal. Attenuation can be applied to both analog and digital signals. A fader is used primarily to
attenuate signals, though a small amount of positive gain is often available on a fader.
bEXT chunk
Broadcast WAV extension data added to the audio data in a WAV file. The bEXT chunk includes timecode and user bit data. For
systems that do not recognize the bEXT chunk this additional information is ignore
Bit depth
When converting between analog and PCM digital audio the amplitude of an analog signal is measured in finite steps, measured in
bits. Higher bit rates result in greater resolution of amplitudes, resulting in higher dynamic range. 24-bit audio, with a theoretical
maximum dynamic range of 144 dB, is the standard bit depth used throughout the audio chain for production.
Bus
An audio path that is the destination of one or multiple (mixed) channels. A bus is typically routed to an output, a record track, or
both.
Camera return
An audio input on a mixer designed to receive the output, typically the headphone output, of a camera. Camera return inputs allow
the user to monitor the level and quality of the signal received at the camera. On the 833 the Aux In can be used as a source for
any channel.
CEDAR sdnx™
CEDAR Audio Ltd.’s highly-regarded noise suppression technology is available as an optional paid plugin from
store.sounddevices.com. Use CEDAR sdnx to reduce unwanted background noises so you can better capture dialog. CEDAR sdnx
has near-zero latency and one simple control for adjusting the amount of suppression. Up to 8 instances of CEDAR sdnx are
available per mixer-recorder/device. These instances can run on any combination of isolated channels (excluding 17-32 on Scorpio)
or bus.
Channel
A “slot” of a mixer that is controllable and routable. A given input feeds the channel and the channel’s settings process and route the
audio as required. It can also be thought of as the path its selected input signal takes on its way to its record track, a bus, or an
output.
Circled take
An identifying character, the @ symbol, which is placed in the file name to highlight a take. Circled takes can either be used to
identify good takes or to identify tracks or takes that will be ignored
Com return
A dedicated audio input designed to receive signals from a PL, or private line communications circuit. The com return on the 833
can routed to an output or a bus.
Com send
A dedicated output designed to send signal to a PL (private line, talkback) communications circuit. The com send is toggled by a
front panel switch.
dBFS
A measurement of the signal level of a digital signal in dB increments, dB relative to full scale signal. The maximum signal in dBFS
is 0 dBFS, with signals expressed with a negative sign. dBFS signal strength is an internal measurement and does not correspond
to analog signals unless the relationship between analog signal and digital signal is known.
Delay (channel)
Time delay that can be applied to an individual channel. Channel delay, typically set in milliseconds, is often used to compensate for
different acoustical or electrical arrival times of signals between channels.
Dugan Automix
An automatic mixing algorithm invented by Dan Dugan which when used across multiple microphone inputs for speech, makes
decisions about which inputs should be given priority due to speech being present vs. open, but unused inputs. This allows for
greatly improved audio by turning down the inputs that aren’t used and automatically turning up the inputs that are being used in
real-time and transparently
exFAT
A storage volume format that can be read and written from current versions of MacOS and Windows. exFAT supports volume sizes
up to 128 PB (gigantic), and individual files can have a maximum size of 16 EB (even more gigantic, bigger than the maximum
volume size).
Fader
A physical control on a mixing console, either a rotary or sliding potentiometer, that controls the level of a channel to a bus. Most
faders have more attenuation than gain available and a unity gain position where the input trim level established the level to the bus.
False take
A recorded take that was either erroneously recorded, or a take that needs to be repeated. It can be labeled after recording. An
identified false take is moved to the trash bin and the auto-incrementing take number is reset to the value prior to the false take.
ile list
Every file recorded by a recorder is visible in the file list. It can be viewed either on a recorder or from a computer when the
recording volume is mounted. The file list shows all the individual files recorded by a recorder.
Frame rate
The rate at which video or motion picture images are recorded or played back, measured in frames-per second (FPS). All audio and
video devices must be running at the same frame rate to keep audio and video synchronized. Timecode frame rates are either an
integer or non-integer value. Integer values include 24, 25, and 30 FPS. Non-integer frame rates include 23.976 and 29.97, and
29.97 drop FPS.
Frequency
The period at which a wave oscillates, measured in hertz (Hz). Frequencies audible to humans range from 20 Hz for very low
frequency signals to 20 kHz for very high frequency signals.
Gain
An increase (or decrease with negative gain) in the level of an audio signal. Gain can be applied in several locations, to both analog
and digital signals. In a field mixer the microphone preamplifier provides a substantial amount of gain at the trim to raise the low
Headphone monitor
Often a separate bus with a dedicated headphone volume control, the headphone monitor typically is normalled to the main left/right
output bus of a mixer. Headphone sources can often be selected among soloed tracks or buses. In some products complex
headphone monitoring of MS Stereo, LR stereo, and ambisonic sources is available.
Input
The physical connection and associated signal type from external sources connected to a device. Inputs can include microphone
inputs on XLR connectors or USB audio inputs from a computer. Depending on the architecture of the mixing console its inputs may
be hardwired to channels or channels can be selected from different inputs.
Input limiter
A limiter circuit reduces the peak signal levels of audio, generally to prevent signal overload. Analog inputs have a maximum input
signal level that can be reached before overload/distortion is introduced. Setting the input gain correctly so that input signals do not
reach this maximum level prevents most overload conditions. In the presence of very high, unexpected signals an input limiter
changes the gain of the incoming signal and prevents it from overloading. Input limiters are sometimes compressor-type circuits with
a ratio of infinity:1, meaning that any increase to the input signal into the limiter at the limiter threshold does not increase the output
signal of the limiter.
Several parameters may be available in a limiter, including knee, ratio, release, and threshold.
Isolated track
A recorded track of an individual microphone or sound source. “Iso” recordings allow for post-record mixing of individual sound
elements.
iXML
An extensible data schema for audio and related metadata stored in broadcast WAV files. Manufacturer-specific data generated
during recording is stored in iXML.
Line level
An analog audio signal used to interconnect audio equipment. Line level may be balanced or unbalanced, referenced to +4 dBu or
-10 dBV, professional or consumer respectively.
Microphone level
The audio signal generated by a microphone. Mic level signals are very low level, requiring a microphone preamplifier to bring them
to usable, line levels. Interconnects with microphone level signals can be subject to noise and interference.
MixAssist™
An exclusive Sound Devices automatic mixing algorithm which when used across multiple microphone inputs for speech, makes
decisions about which inputs should be given priority due to speech being present vs. open, but unused inputs. This allows for
Mix track
A recorded track that is a sum of multiple tracks. In production sound the mix track is often a single summed track of all production
dialog elements. Mix tracks can also be sub-mixes of like microphones, such as a sub mix of just lavalier microphones or just boom
microphones.
Monophonic WAV
A WAV file that is comprised of a single track of audio. When recording multi-track audio with monophonic WAV files each track is
recorded to its own WAV file, with a file name indicating the track number. All associated monophonic files that are part of a
multi-track recording will be identical lengths.
Mute
A mute control is a convenient on/off switch for a channel and an easy way to remove a channel from appearing in downstream
buses. Mute an input or channel does not change levels or settings; when channels are muted and unmuted, their settings remain.
Notes (metadata)
A metadata field that is saved along with audio data in a recorded sound file, useful for sound report generation. Some workstation
software recognizes the notes field and presents it when viewing the sound file.
NoiseAssist™
An exclusive Sound Devices noise suppression algorithm which is available as an optional paid plugin from
store.sounddevices.com. Use NoiseAssist to suppress background noises such as traffic, generators, HVAC noise, and more. The
plugin continuously monitors background noise to give you clean audio for the entire take. Up to eight instances of NoiseAssist can
run on any combination of isolated channels (excluding 17-32 on Scorpio), bus L, or bus R.
NP-1(A) battery
A specific class of battery, originally developed by Sony. There are multiple chemistries in this class including lithium-ion and
nickel-cadmium.
Output
The physical connection and associated signal type sent from a device. Outputs can be source from inputs, buses, record tracks,
and other auxiliary signals.
Output auto-mute
When set, an output signal is muted when recording is stopped, restricting program audio from being sent to listeners “between
takes”.
Output delay
A digital delay applied at the output. Signal delay is often set at an output to compensate for the delay introduced by digital imaging
systems so that picture and sound remain in correct “lip sync”. Output delay is set in either frames or milliseconds.
Pan
When a channel is routed to a stereo-linked bus the level it appears at each bus is adjusted by a pan control. A channel with its pan
control “straight up the center”, or “centered” sends signal at the same level to each bus. A channel that is panned left or right sends
the signal to the left or right bus, respectively.
Phantom power
Condenser (capacitor) microphones require power for operation. They use power to charge the diaphragm backplate (for true
condensers) and power the impedance convert located adjacent to the microphone capsule. Phantom power is the method for
microphone inputs to supply DC power to the microphone through the same connection used for the audio signals from the
microphone.
Phantom power provides a positive voltage, typically between 11-52 VDC, with 48 V being the most common, on both pin-2 and
pin-3 with pin-1 used as ground. The DC voltage appears as a common-mode signal on the balanced connection and is rejected by
the connection’s differential amplifier. Phantom power has no effect on dynamic microphones.
Phrase
A pre-set text string which can be used to quickly fill out the notes field.
Pre-fader routing
The signal from a channel is routed to a bus before the fader in the signal path. The input trim, if available, controls the channel level
sent to the bus. Isolated tracks are typically recorded pre-fader so that any level changes made to the faders don’t affect the
recorded signal.
Pre-roll
A continuous buffer that is always writing to memory offering a recording that begins prior to when the record button is activated.
Pre-roll is set in seconds, and the recording begins the set number of seconds prior to the button being pressed. This is helpful in
applications where an operator missed a cue to begin recording.
Polarity (audio)
The direction of the current flow of an audio signal is defined as polarity. The polarity of a signal can reversed when a balanced
audio signal connection has its pin-2 and pin-3 connections reversed. Single-ended signals can have their polarity reversed when
going through an “inverting” gain stage. It is best practice to have all incoming and outgoing signals with the same polarity
relationship.
Polyphonic WAV
An individual WAV file that contains multiple audio tracks. When recording multi-track audio with polyphonic WAV files all recorded
tracks are contained within a single WAV file.
Post-roll
An extra period of time that is appended to the end of a recording when stop is pressed. If record is pressed during this period of
time, recording will resume within the same file with no audio lost. This is particularly useful should a Director call ‘cut’ prematurely
or accidentally.
Project
An option available for file organization on Sound Devices recorders. Projects are the highest level of file folder organization. The
project folder can contain sub-folders of scene files or recorded files directly.
Record bell
A tone generated in headphones to alert the listener that recording has started. The bell is also produced when recording has ended
with the stop button, when the recording volume is full, or when power is in a critical state.
Record Folder
The destination folder for recorded takes. The 8-Series supports a three-tier folder hierarchy allowing for flexibility in organizing
recordings.
Sampling rate
When converting between analog and PCM digital audio the analog signal is measured (sampled) in unique steps at a data rate
specified in kHz. Higher sampling rates allow for representing higher frequency analog audio. 48 kHz is the standard sampling rate
for production, worldwide. Higher sampling rates including 96 kHz and 192 kHz are used for high-precision applications where the
representation of audio above 20 kHz is required. A general rule is that the maximum analog audio frequency is ½ the sampling
rate.
Scene
On Sound Devices recorders the scene becomes part of the file name for a take. Scene names can be pre-loaded to quickly change
between scenes.
Smart Battery
A lithium-ion rechargeable battery with integrated telemetry indicating battery condition, run time and other useful data.
Solo
A control on a mixer to route a channel to headphones while muting all others. Solo and PFL are related controls and in many
consoles are the same. Solo circuits can be exclusive—only one channel is sent to headphones at a time—or non-exclusive—any
number of channels can be sent to the solo circuit and appear in headphones.
SuperSlot™
SuperSlot™ is an electro-mechanical connection protocol, developed by Sound Devices, to simplify the interconnection of wireless
audio transmitters and receivers with audio mixers and cameras. SuperSlot provides, power, audio, and control signals over a single
multi-pin connection. SuperSlot-compatible products will be offered by multiple manufacturers, including wireless system
manufacturers, camera manufacturers, and audio mixer manufacturers.
Take
A recorded take is an individual recorded file (or files when recording monophonic WAV files) generated by a recorder. Take
numbers are auto-incrementing. Take numbers are added to the end of the file name.
Take list
Separate from a file list, a take list consolidates related files such as a group of monophonic WAV files generated by a single take
and presents them as a single take.
Test tone
See tone oscillator.
Timecode
A numerical clock value expressed in hours:minutes:seconds:frames, i.e. 04:59:39:05, used to synchronize cameras, video decks,
and audio recorders. Timecode requires clocks on devices to be synchronized, either through a wired or wireless connection
between devices, or through a process called “jam sync” where each device, which requires a high-precision clock, runs
independently after their clocks are synchronized.
Timecode mode
Sound Devices recorders offer multiple timecode modes. Different modes correspond to different timecode workflows. Common
modes available in Sound Devices recorders include:
record run - timecode advances only when recording is engaged
free run - timecode run continuously, typically with the start of production being at 0 hour
24 hour - similar to free run except the start time corresponds to time-of-day
ext TC - the recorder applies the value of an external timecode source.
Tone oscillator
A sound generator producing a sine wave tone at a given frequency at a given output level. With its known output level tone
oscillators are helpful to set gain structure between audio equipment.
Track
Track arm
Tracks that are active and ready for recording are said to be “armed”. When recording begins all armed tracks begin recording.
Depending on the production is may be advantageous to arm and disarm tracks, especially to disarm unused tracks.
Track name
Individual tracks of a multi-track recording can be named to indicate microphone type or character name.
Trim
Also defined in mixers as “gain”, the trim adjustment is the first stage of gain of a microphone or line level input. Typical microphone
trim values range from 10 dB to 50 dB, depending on microphone sensitivity and volume of the sound source.
User bits
Static, numeric data that is available as part of a timecode signal. User bits are often used to indicate the date of a file. User bits are
four sets of two-digit hexadecimal numbers from 00 to ff.
WAV File
A universal, well-supported file type for sound file recordings. WAV files can contain one or more (up to 65,535) tracks of PCM audio
data at any sampling rate and bit depth. A standard WAV file is limited to a maximum file size of 4 GB. Sound Devices uses the
.WAV extension for recorded files, including for files with Broadcast WAV metadata.
WAV RF64
An extension of the WAV file type that supports file sizes larger than 4 GB. When recording high track count, high sampling rate
polyphonic WAV files, the 4 GB size limitation of WAV can be reached quickly. RF64 files larger than 4 GB require recording to a
volume type than can support file sizes larger than 4 GB.
Word clock
A reference signal used to synchronize the sampling rate of multiple digital devices.
XLR female
Industry-standard 3-pin locking audio connector for microphone and line-level sources. Predominantly used as an input. Also shown
as XLR-F.
XLR male
Industry-standard 3-pin locking audio connector for microphone and line-level sources. Predominantly used as an output. Also
shown as XLR-M.
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* THIS SOFTWARE IS PROVIDED BY THE REGENTS AND CONTRIBUTORS ``AS IS’’ AND ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED
WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR
A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE REGENTS AND CONTRIBUTORS BE LIABLE FOR
ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING, BUT NOT
LIMITED TO, PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS OR SERVICES; LOSS OF USE, DATA, OR PROFITS; OR BUSINESS
INTERRUPTION) HOWEVER CAUSED AND ON ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, STRICT LIABILITY,
OR TORT (INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE OR OTHERWISE) ARISING IN ANY WAY OUT OF THE USE OF THIS SOFTWARE, EVEN
IF ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGE.
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