DAT-Heads Digest #956
Contents:
RE; The AT822 (Beast914@aol.com)
Ricoh MP 7040A CDR?? (Darrin Muggli)
Re: DAT-Heads Digest #953 (Alexander W. Chin)
RE: DAT specs. (Gordon Gidluck)
Technical Bulletin from Maxell (DDS-vs-DAT) (Gordon Gidluck)
st etienne japan information (june 1999) (GaoBest@aol.com)
Red Hot Chili Pepper Radio Shows ("jesse volner")
Re: 90m tapes and the D8 "blank" bug... ("Gary Davis")
Re: DAT vs. DDS ("Craig Hillwig")
Soundblaster Live (Ryan Ellingson)
Dave & Tim 3/5/99 (LenG58@aol.com)
EXTRA Phish Alpine Valley ("Christopher and Anne Gillespie")
Phil and Friends source question (Rick Gebhard)
p-funk (Jeramy Daniels)
From: Beast914@aol.com
Subject: RE; The AT822
Date: Thu, 13 May 1999 23:20:30 EDT
dangerbird@webtv.net was curious about the Audio Technica 822 microphone. I
like it a whole lot for my occasional recording. Granted its not for stealth
but it is a good middle of the road microphone. While its not terribly
fancy, it is certainly better than many more common mics sold by Radio Shack
and Sony. You should be made aware that while it has an XLR type male plug
on the mic, it is NOT a balanced microphone. Its unbalanced to accomplish
stereo sound (and both channels share the ground). That means that the cable
run between this mic and your recorder should be as short as possible to
prevent hum/noise interference. The mic also has a switch position looking
like "/--" implying rolloff of low end. Dont ever use it. Do your rolling
off of boomy clubs/ EQing after the recording. And of course send the good
sounding ones my way...
D
From: Darrin Muggli <muggli@rastro.colorado.edu>
Subject: Ricoh MP 7040A CDR??
Date: Thu, 13 May 1999 22:13:29 -0600
Sorry for the lack of real content, but if anyone has any experience
with the above CD burner, please contact me. I am thinking of purchasing
one and I would like as much input as I can get!
Thanks,
Darrin
From: alex@gerulf.acsu.unsw.edu.au (Alexander W. Chin)
Subject: Re: DAT-Heads Digest #953
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 14:26:46 +1000
Hi all,
I'm in a hungry but good mood. So there'll be no attitude from me today.
Later after I chat to a certain female, then the attitude will come back.
Haha.
>From: Chuck <crtb@capecod.net>
>Subject: DAT specs.
>Date: Wed, 12 May 1999 21:25:45 -0400 (EDT)
>
>Does anyone know of a URL to a specification, at the bit level,
>describing exactly how (1) bits are laid onto a DAT, in what order,
>etc., and (2) exactly how data is reinforced with forward error
<snip>
>The nonsense on the list speculating on these things wastes everyone's
>time. Similar nonsense seems to surround questions regarding
>warranties, DDS vs. DAT.
<snip>
> Chuck Bacon -- crtb@capecod.net
> ABHOR SECRECY -- DEFEND PRIVACY
Very well put! I read the specs somewhere, in one of the Digital Audio
books somewhere ages ago. I never read the DDS specs myself though. But I
have converted audio tapes to DDS by drawing lines with a marker pen. Far
as I can see, the DDS drives will retry many times to read a bad part of
the tape. Audio is streaming, real time. You get an error, and you hear it.
DDS is more tolerant, it just jogs the tape back and forth until it gets
data right.
>From: udo@dinges.xs4all.nl (Udo van den Heuvel)
>Subject: mic-pre help (electronics) needed
>Date: 13 May 99 17:44:33 +0100
>
>Hello All!
>
>I'm in the final stage of designing (ahem, throwing together) a small pre-amp
>for the new set of microphones that I intend to buy (Sennheiser MKE40-1053 or
>maybe MKE104-1053). I just need some input about what type of parts to choose
>for optimum performance, etc.
>If you have some knowledge in this area please email me so I can send you my
>design together with a few questions. Thanks in advance!
>
>Greetz,
> Udo
Haha. This was the post that prompted me to reply. Udo!
I loved the part '(ahem, throwing together)'.... I can relate to that.
Before I could design, I used to 'throw together' stuff.
Udo, if you could be bothered - get some 2SC2545s for your front end. They
are really low noise. I used them for a turntable front end before, and
also a cassette deck front end. I don't know if you require such low noise
requirements, but they are really low noise.
Also, Analog Devices have some pretty good Op-Amps. From memory, I think I
used the AD 711 in my DDE 3.0. Or have a look at Burr-Brown. They have good
ones too. I used to use the TI-NE5532AN, which is pretty good, but has been
outclassed now. What the 5532 had going for it was the low (I mean low)
TIM.
Be carefull with some of these Op-Amps though. They are so high bandwidth
that you need to take special care of track layout and board design. More
than once, I've ended up with a VHF oscillator instead of and audio amp!
The 5532 has a unity gain bandwidth of something like 130 MHz or so!
That is great if you want to amplify TV stations, but you don't want that
going into your audio amp. Mine's a big powerful one (thrown together
also), and I've managed to fry the transistors with the RF. Now, I design
RF suppression at every input and output to prevent that. Grr... Learn from
my mistakes..
Cheers
Alex
=========================================================================
It is better to have loved and laid, then to have never laid at all
Alexander W. Chin (alex@gerulf.acsu.unsw.edu.au)
From: Gordon Gidluck <ggidluck@artelco.com>
Subject: RE: DAT specs.
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 00:08:22 -0700
>
> From: Chuck <crtb@capecod.net>
> Subject: DAT specs.
> Date: Wed, 12 May 1999 22:19:00 -0400 (EDT)
>
> Does anyone know of a URL to a specification, at the bit level,
> describing exactly how (1) bits are laid onto a DAT, in what order,
> etc., and (2) exactly how data is reinforced with forward error
> correction bits to form frames or packets or whatever is recorded
> on tape, and (3) exactly what data is recorded on tape in addition
> to digitized samples; for instance, how are time codes and SCMS
> encoded. All that kind of stuff. Further, if such a URL exists,
> does it describe (4) how computer data is written into similar
> frames; and finally (5) what drives can handle either format.
> While we're at it, (7) is there any info telling exactly how DDS
> tapes can be distinguished from audio DAT tapes. (Somewhere I read
> something about holes in the cassette).
Chuck,
I don't know of a URL on this, but most everything you are asking for is
in Ken C. Pohlmanns book "Principles of Digital Audio". This is an
excellent technical reference. ISBN 0-672-22634-0
Two of the holes in the bottom of the tape shell tell whether the tape
is thin or regular thickness. DDS tapes use a "media recognition system"
by means of an optical leader on the tape. This allows identification of
a DDS tape using an optical sensor on DDS drives. In this way they can
detect that a non-DDS tape has been inserted. I have observed that these
drives can also detect a cleaning cassette. I don't know the method
used, perhaps that's optical too using a different leader. Perhaps
someone on the list knows.
Gordon Gidluck
From: Gordon Gidluck <ggidluck@artelco.com>
Subject: Technical Bulletin from Maxell (DDS-vs-DAT)
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 01:17:58 -0700
It looks like we will be hearing from Panasonic again shortly. I took
the time to search the archives, and here's a repost of a 1996 post. Ken
Hays of Terrapin Tapes posted a quotation from Mark Okafuji, an
Engineering Manager for Maxell. Notice that he draws attention to the
HS4/60S and the DM-120 and states that they are identical in formulation
and thickness. The difference is in the certification process and
optical media leader. He does say that the DDS is recommended for data,
but the DDS and audio DAT are identical formulations.
Allegedly, now, we have another Maxell professional who siding with
Panasonic's generalization about the DDS media. We claim that because of
the facts presented below that 60m Maxell DDS have got to be ok to use
in audio DAT transports.
Gordon Gidluck
>
>
> From: Ken Hays <boulder@well.com>
> Subject: Technical Bulletin from Maxell (DDS-vs-DAT)
> Date: Fri, 25 Oct 1996 11:04:23 -0400
>
> Greetings DAT-Heads,
>
> The following Maxell bulletin was faxed to me on April 2nd of this year by
> Maxell, USA's highest ranking technical engineer. It was posted to the
> digest a couple months back, but I think it deserves another reading. This
> is the first time a major DAT manufacturer publically acknowledges that
> Audio and DDS grade dat's use the identical tape formulation and backing
> material. For years, the 6 DAT manufactures have claimed that DDS grade
> product is *far* superior to that of audio grade, hence, the higher price.
> (example, Sony DG-90's at Comp USA are around $12-18 each). After much
> time and frustration, Maxell and TDK now admit that their audio grade
> product is infact identical to that of their computer grade product in both
> *backing material and tape formulation*. KAO and Fuji only make DDS
> product for both applications. Sony admits via telephone conversation that
> their DDS product is the "exact same tape formulation" as their audio grade
> DT's but they won't put that on paper. Folks, we all have been given the
> run-a-round by many of these DAT manufactures. Hope this is helpful,
>
> Ken
> Terrapin Tapes
>
> ------------ ------------- --------------
> =============
> 04/02/96
>
> Maxell Corporation of America, Georgia Farctory, Conyers, GA 30207
>
> 4mm Data Cartridge -vs- Audio DAT Cassette
>
> The appearance of 4mm Data Cartridge and Audio DAT Cassette is virtually
> identical. Then what is the difference between the two products?
>
> Since 90 and 120 meter Data Cartridge have thinner tape, it is only fair to
> compare 60 meter Data Cartridge (HS4/60S) with DM-120 Audio Cassette (Audio
> Grade).
>
> Thickness Length Capacity/Record Time Coating Material
> (micron) (m)
> HS4/60 13 60 1.3 GB MP
> HS4/90 9 90 2.0 GB MP
> HS4/120 7 120 4.0 GB MP+
>
> DM-120 13 60 120 minutes MP
>
> (note: The difference between our 60 and 90 meter Data Cartridge is tape
> thickness. The coating material used for the two products are the same.
> The 120 meter Data Cartridge, however, has a different coating material).
>
> The difference between HS4/60S and DM-120 DAT Cassette is:
>
> Certify Process MRS
>
> HS4/60S Yes Yes
> DAT DM-120 No No
>
> Certify Process: This quality assurance process verifies the tape loaded
> into 4mm Data Cartridge is of highest quality.
>
> MRS: "Media Recognition System", stripe on the leader portion of the tape
> allows DDS drives to recognize a DDS data grade cartridge.
>
> The tape formulation and coating material used for both 60 meter Data
> cartridge (HS4/60S) and DM-120 DAT are the same. Subsequently mechanical
> properties are the same.
> Therefore our 4mm Data Cartridge can be offered for digital audio
> enthusiast as well, although it was designed and intended for data storage
> purpose.
> Needless to say, it is recommended to use 4mm Data Cartridge for DDS data
> storage drives.
>
> Mark Okafuji, Engineering Manager, Maxell Corporation of America
>
From: GaoBest@aol.com
Subject: st etienne japan information (june 1999)
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 02:38:01 EDT
I previously asked if anyone could help me out and record the St Etienne gigs
in Japan. As St Et are very popular in Japan (not to mention that they have
released some Japan-only releases), I think that their gigs will be even more
special than ever-thought possible. The dates/venues:
Tokyo gig: Shibuya Club Quattro, June 10th
Osaka gig: Shinsaibashi Club Quattro, June 9th
So if anyone could help me out in recording these shows, I'd feel honored and
indebted to you forever. Actually if anyone can help me get tapes of St
Etienne or Sarah Cracknell's previous gigs in Japan, that'd be ace as well.
thanks for the b/w
mike
gaobest@aol.com
From: "jesse volner" <mentholiptus@hotmail.com>
Subject: Red Hot Chili Pepper Radio Shows
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 00:32:07 PDT
Can Anyone get these RHCP radio shows onto DAT for me? Email me and we can
work something out!
These are the shows to be broadcast:
May 22 Chicago, IL New World Music Theater
May 23 St. Louis, MO Riverport Amphitheater
May 29 Baltimore, MD P-S-I-net Stadium
May 30 Boston, MA Tweeter Center
Thanks,
jesse
_______________________________________________________________
Get Free Email and Do More On The Web. Visit http://www.msn.com
From: "Gary Davis" <gdavis@loop.com>
Subject: Re: 90m tapes and the D8 "blank" bug...
Reply-to: gdavis@loop.com
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 03:54:54 -0700
Based on my experience, the D8 "blankety-blank" bug doesn't start
on just any 90m tapes, but specifically, Maxell 90m's, both labeled
and unlabeled. Maxell changed their shell design a few years
back, and many (all) of the Maxell tapes I've seen recently appear
to have a higher drag (reel friction), as well as making a noise when
they FF/RW, and they *definately* show the "blank" problem on a
D8 long before a 90m Fuji/KAO/(Sony?) or other brand.
In fact, while Maxells (labeled and unlabeled) have long been a
standard of dat-heads, I would highly recommend *NOT* using
them, just on the basis of how they sound & perform in FF/RW.
It seems like they put a lot more wear on the deck.
I have noticed recent that several taper who had completely sworn
off 90m tapes, were sending me 60m Maxells, suggesting that 90m
Maxells, and not 90m in general, may have been these "slow-
winding hard dragging" tapes they were complaining about.
If someone has information to prove otherwise, of course, please
present it.
My latest sample was 20 labeled Maxell 90m's, very recent, and
they all exhibited this problem. Also, while it's harder to
demonstrate conclusively, I seemed to have far more head clog
problems with this batch of tapes (roughly one clog every 4-5
tapes) compared to zero head clogs which I usually experience
with "preferred" brands of tape (which are currently Fuji and Sony
DDS, pending discovery of problems with these brands!!)
--Gary
From: "Craig Hillwig" <chill@teamschoeps.org>
Subject: Re: DAT vs. DDS
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 06:59:32 -0400
I have seen a document that purports to be a Maxell spec. sheet detailing
the specs and showing that Maxell HS/4 60m DDS is identical to Maxell's
RA(?) 120 minute DAT tape (minus the MRS strip) Documents can be spoofed,
of course....I'll see if I can find it and scan the document in.
I've got 5000 hours EACH on the original heads of both my Sony PCM-2600s
(which are rated for 4000 hours with DAT tapes) 95% of those hours on 60m
DDS (I avoid 90m like the plague). With routine maintenance, both continue
to make flawless recordings.
Whatever the claims of the manufacturers, the collective experience of folks
on this list and among my friend has proved to be otherwise.
From: Ryan Ellingson <rellings@earthlink.net>
Subject: Soundblaster Live
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 05:21:40 -0700
Hey All,
I will be purchasing a digital sound card very soon and am looking
for any personal recommendations on a digital sound card that will pass
digital signal in and out of it. The model I am considering presently
is the Soundblaster Live soundcard that has digital coax in/out for
about $200. I was wondering if anybody has used this card or has any
opinions about it.
Thanks for the bandwidth.
Ryan
What is a band without Skyscrapers?
From: LenG58@aol.com
Subject: Dave & Tim 3/5/99
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 08:33:23 EDT
Hello All,
I'm looking for the above show for my sister's birthday present on 5/26. Any
help would be greatly appreciated. Have mostly Dead to trade. Thanks for the
bw!!
Len
From: "Christopher and Anne Gillespie" <dizziness@interlync.com>
Subject: EXTRA Phish Alpine Valley
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 07:47:14 -0500
I've got two Alpine Valley Phish lawn seats I'm looking to get rid of as I only really wanted taper's, didn't get pavilion and can't take lawn seats. Interested? We can work something out.
chris
===================
Chris Gillespie (dizziness@interlync.com)
http://www.curf.edu/~crf_gillesc/
From: Rick Gebhard <rgebhard@remc7.k12.mi.us>
Subject: Phil and Friends source question
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 09:01:43
Does anybody out there know who ran this rig and from where in the room?
Microtech Gefell 300(xy)>LunatecV2>Graham Patten ADC-20>D7
Thanks,
Rick
From: Jeramy Daniels <jeramy@abcpolymers.com>
Subject: p-funk
Date: Fri, 14 May 1999 09:11:09 -0400
just wanted to know if anyone had any insight regarding taping the pfunk I
checked kurts list and could not find any info but i own some DAT's of the
pfunk however I heard that since george is the only original member
policies could have changed.
and if anyone can respond back with a definitive answer, and would like a
DAT of the show,if I can tape, I will gladly do so.
Roxy Atlanta GA
thread:
this is a challenge
AKG480hypers>oade248>sbm-1>da-p1
depending on the venue Hypers or Cards
PS this is a challenge # for # ,$ for $, show for show, venue for venue,
the best all around rig out.
PSS dont even bring the, well we got schoeps and everyone knows they are
the best mics out, into my house because the last three shows I have gotten
through jim Oade with schoeps, both he and I agree that they lack
imaging,RE: you have got to have the right venue for the schoeps to out
perform, and I can't remember the last show I went to except maybe the fox
in ATL and the warfield in SF were this could apply and I have seen 28
panic shows 6 galactic shows 2 leftover, 1 string cheese and various others
local bands around ATL GA in the last 365 days.
please post to DAT heads not personally.
If you feel confident with your, and I mean your rig, not some tape you
dubbed from someone and want to go toe to toe and we can match venues
lets get it on.
Or just post the would be contenders
I am not really this arrogant I just thought it would be fun to compare
some of the top of the line rigs out.
thanks for playing.
jeramy
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