The Akai DR16 simplifies multi-track recording and playback, offering familiar transport controls reminiscent of traditional MTRs. Operating much like tape, it allows seamless punching in and out during recording, with the Auto Punch feature ensuring precise rehearsal and repetition of punches. With the Take function, you can store up to five trial recordings on a single track, facilitating audition and selection of the best take. Additionally, the Undo function allows you to correct mistakes easily.
However, the Akai DR16 goes beyond traditional tape replacement. Utilising proprietary LSI chips from the Akai DD1500 post-production system, it enables 16-track 16-bit linear digital audio recording and playback from a single SCSI hard disk.
Users can select disk size, with approximately 16 x 12 track minutes available per 1 gigabyte of disk memory at 44.1kHz. Connecting to external storage systems is straightforward, supporting up to six SCSI devices via the SCSI interface, including magneto-optical disk drives for recording and replay. The digital interface allows for easy data backup to DAT and direct recording of mixes to DAT.
Editing on the Akai DR16 is intuitive and non-destructive, offering zero loss. With random access to the disk, audio can be manipulated instantly without physically copying it. The Jog/Shuttle control facilitates easy edit point location, while the 16-channel programmable mixer with snapshot and fade automation enhances mixing capabilities.
The Akai DR16 can be expanded by slaving up to seven units to a master unit, providing a total track capacity of 128. Various interface options, such as the IB801S SCSI-B interface board, allow connection to personal computers and peripherals for expanded functionality.
Drawing on Akai’s expertise in musical equipment, the DR16 seamlessly integrates with recording studios, featuring MIDI control capabilities via the IB803M MIDI interface board. The IB804A Alesis ADAT digital interface enables real-time copying of 8 channels of digital audio between the Akai DR16 and ADAT-compatible machines.
For pro audio and broadcast applications, optional interface boards like the IB802T SMPTE interface and IB805R RS422 interface offer unique synchronisation and machine control capabilities. The IB806B Bi-Phase interface facilitates integration with film-based technology.
The Akai DR16 combines advanced technology with user-friendly features, making it a versatile and powerful tool for professional audio recording and production.
Superb sound and powerful random-access editing with the ease-of-use of a conventional tape recorder
- 18-bit 64x oversampling ADC
- 20-bit 8x oversampling DAC
- 24-bit internal processing
- Instantaneous access to 109 autolocate points — no waiting for tape winding
- Link up to 8 DR16s for 128 tracks
- “Take” function for easy recording and auditioning of alternative takes
- Standard SCSI interface allows access to external drives including M/O and JAZ removable media drives
Internal 16-channel digital mixer
- 99-scene snapshot and fade automation
- Full dynamic automation via MIDI
- 2 aux sends
- Stereo BUS for internal digital mixdown
- Optional 16-channel digital 3-band parametric EQ
Extensive I/O
- Analog: 8 in/16 out + stereo master; Switchable +4/-10dB line levels; Balanced 1/4″ TSR in/out; Built-in mic preamps
- Digital: AES/EBU and S/PDIF standard
- Optional adat multichannel interface
Sync to everything
- Wordclock input standard
- Optional SMPTE, MIDI, RS422 (Sony 9-pin), and Biphase sync boards
SuperView Graphic Interface Option
- High-resolution graphic display of track, envelope, and selected edit region
- Simply plug in any SVGA monitor. No computer needed.
- ASCII keyboard input for naming and remote control
Other Options
- Internal 2 GB hard drive
- DL16 Remote Controller/Mixtab
- MT8 Mix Controller
- 2nd SCSI port
