If I record two different tapes, one at a time, can I later play them back in sync using the BRC?
Yes. Since the ADATs sync by utilizing the time code off of each tape and slaving each machine to the master, tapes may be recorded individually at different times and be played back together in sync. The only consideration is the starting reference and clock. For example, let’s say you want to record two tapes of sequenced tracks on your one machine so that you can take the tapes to another studio for overdubs and mixdown. As long as you use the same Song Start time for both of the tapes under the LOCATE SONG window, the two tapes will play back together in sync in a multiple-ADAT system.
If you were to start recording the tapes at different start times and did not set a start time under the LOCATE SONG window, you can still play the tapes back in sync. However, in order to do so, you will need to perform a tape offset when mixing down to account for the difference in start times.
If you are working on a session which involves syncing to SMPTE, video or digital audio, pay close attention so that the same LOCATE and CLOCK reference is used under EXT SYNC. Otherwise, you may run into problems of glitching or drifting.
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