Sony PCM-800 8-Track Digital Recorder

The Sony PCM-800 stands out as a cutting-edge modular 8-track digital recorder utilising the DTRS format, originally developed by Tascam for their DA-88. Its innovation lies in using easily accessible Hi-8 video tape for recording up to 108 minutes of top-notch CD-quality audio. With balanced XLR analogue ins and outs, and AES/EBU digital connectivity through a D sub connector (provided), the PCM-800 ensures versatile and high-quality connections.

Manage your recordings effortlessly with features like tracking delay ranging from -4 to +150 ms. Experience smooth and seamless punch-ins/outs with adjustable crossfade (a handy tool) spanning from 10 to 90 ms. The unit boasts a user-friendly shuttle knob, allowing quick navigation to precise editing or punch-in points at speeds ranging from 1/4 to 8 times normal.

Front-panel convenience is enhanced with two auto-locate buttons and a 6% pitch control. The Sony PCM-800 offers a plethora of optional features for seamless synchronisation with various timecode formats. For those involved in video production, owning this unit is a definite must for unparalleled performance.

The Sony PCM-800 closely mirrors the Tascam DA-88, with the primary distinctions appearing on the rear panel. Sony has opted for a sleek dark grey front panel in contrast to Tascam’s beige design. Noteworthy differentiators include the provision of balanced XLR analogue inputs and outputs on the PCM-800 (compared to the unbalanced RCA on the DA-88). Moreover, the Sony PCM-800 offers AES/EBU digital I/O through two D-sub 25-pin connectors.

Various rear panel connections include the Meter Unit 15-pin connector for external metering. The Remote In/Sync In D-sub 15-pin connector is utilised for the optional RM-D800 remote control and facilitates connections for multiple Sony PCM-800s, along with the Sync Out connector. This enables linking up to sixteen Sony PCM-800s, providing an extensive capability of up to 128 tracks. Additional features include Word Sync I/O connectors and a remote Punch In/Out jack for a footswitch.

For synchronisation purposes, the Machine ID rotary switch assigns an ID number to the machine, particularly useful when synchronising two or more PCM-800s. The four red LED Error Indicators illuminate if the sampling frequency and emphasis settings of digital input signals don’t align with the PCM-800 settings or when there’s no signal at the digital input. Lastly, near the AC power connector, a substantial heat sink occupies about one-third of the back panel.

For expanded functionality, the optional DABK-801 Sync board can be integrated into an available slot on the back panel. This board offers SMPTE/EBU time code synchronisation, a time code generator, MIDI machine control, and NTSC/PAL video synchronisation.