The Genex GX8500 offers high-definition PCM recording at up to 24-bit/192kHz and is the only commercially available system capable of recording up to 8 channels of DSD (Direct Stream Digital). Developed by Sony for SACD (Super Audio CD), the DSD format features a 2.8224MHz 1-bit datastream. An optional DSD processing card, co-developed with Sony, adds functionalities such as metering, crossfades, and headphone monitoring during DSD recording.
The Genex GX8500 is available with or without on-board 24-bit/96kHz converters and employs advanced, ultra-low jitter clock output circuitry, developed in partnership with Pacific Microsonics, to ensure superior sound quality. It supports digital mixers and other recorders through 192kHz dual or quad wire interfacing and 96kHz single or dual wire interfacing.
The system also features AES/EBU and SDIF2 digital interfaces, allowing seamless integration into any digital audio recording, production, or mastering environment. A built-in 8-channel digital mixer provides an automatic 2-channel mix for monitoring, which is also output via AES/EBU, facilitating the easy production of CD-Rs for artist approval.
Users can choose from various optional storage media, including integrated Magneto Optical (MO) or fixed hard disk drives. The ability to switch seamlessly between internal and external drives is particularly beneficial for long recording sessions on location. A unique feature developed by Genex is the optional internal insurance drive, which ensures absolute data integrity when recording multichannel high-definition PCM or DSD to the MO drive.
Magneto Optical is a superb format for high-definition digital audio recording and mastering, offering high data security ideal for archiving and as a convenient, durable file exchange medium. HHB’s own MO5.2GB disk, which carries a lifetime warranty, is recommended for use with the Genex GX8500.
The Genex GX8500 also offers affordable, high-quality 24-bit/96kHz A-D and D-A converter modules with gain adjustment, which can be easily installed in the back panel, making the Genex GX8500 a competitively priced, standalone PCM 24-bit/96kHz and DSD 8-channel recorder.
Additionally, the Genex GX8500 can generate and lock to timecode in all popular formats and supports varispeed. It offers two Chase/Lock modes – Lock & Release and Follow – and features an adjustable flywheel system to handle incoming timecode errors effectively.
Genex GX8500 Features
- 8 channel hi-definition digital audio recorder
- Records DSD (Direct Stream Digital) and PCM
- 96kHz sampling: single or dual wire interface 192kHz sampling: dual or quad wire interface
- Available with or without internal A-D and D-A 8-track converters (24-bit/96kHz)
- Simultaneous recording of 4-track 24-bit/192kHz via external converters
- New V2 software • Choice of 5.2GB MO or fixed hard disk drive
- Advanced back-up algorithms for rapid disk to disk copying
- Seamless switching between any internal or external SCSI devices
- AES/EBU, SDIF2 & DSD digital I/Os • Ultra-low jitter clock developed in conjunction with Pacific Microsonics
- Assemble and insert recording modes
- 16 input/output parallel interface • Built-in 8 channel digital mixer • Input and output routing • Seamless punch in/out with adjustable digital crossfades
- Adjustable PPM meter level setting with fine calibration mode for accurate alignment
- Free Genex software updates • RS422 interface • 9 system presets • 100 locate memories
- Unique ID facilities (Take, False Start, Note, End)
Key Applications for the Genex GX8500
- Hi-definition mastering
- Multichannel mastering for DVD
- DSD recording for Super Audio CD
- High-definition location recording
- Stereo or multichannel PCM archiving at the highest possible bit/sample rates
