FOSTEX VF160 (01) PDF MANUAL

Read Instructions: All safety and operating instructions should be read before operating the appliance.

Retain Instructions: Keep the safety and operating instructions for future reference.

Heed Warnings: Adhere to all warnings on the appliance and in the operating instructions.

Follow Instructions: Follow all operating and use instructions.

Water and Moisture: Do not use the appliance near water (e.g., bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink, laundry tub, wet basement, swimming pool).

Carts and Stands: Use only with a cart or stand recommended by the manufacturer. Move appliance and cart combinations with care; quick stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause overturns.

Wall or Ceiling Mounting: Mount only as recommended by the manufacturer.

Ventilation: Ensure the appliance’s location does not interfere with proper ventilation. Do not place on surfaces like beds or rugs that may block openings, or in built-in installations like bookcases that impede airflow.

Heat: Situate the appliance away from heat sources like radiators, stoves, or other heat-producing appliances.

Power Sources: Connect only to the power supply type described in the operating instructions or marked on the appliance.

Grounding or Polarization: Take precautions so that the grounding or polarization means are not defeated.

Power Cord Protection: Route power supply cords so they are not likely to be walked on or pinched, paying attention to plugs, receptacles, and exit points.

Cleaning: Clean only as recommended by the manufacturer.

Nonuse Periods: Unplug the power cord when the appliance is unused for long periods.

Object and Liquid Entry: Prevent objects from falling and liquids from spilling into the enclosure through openings.

Damage Requiring Service: Service by qualified personnel is needed if: the power cord/plug is damaged; objects have fallen or liquid spilled into the appliance; it has been exposed to rain; it does not operate normally or shows a marked change in performance; it has been dropped or the enclosure is damaged.

Servicing: Do not attempt service beyond that described in the operating instructions. Refer all other servicing to qualified personnel.

Connect the VF160 only to the power supply voltage specified in the manual.

Do not connect the VF160 to the same AC outlet as devices generating noise (like large motors or dimmers) or devices consuming large amounts of power (like air conditioners or large heaters).

If using in an area with a different voltage, consult your dealer or Fostex service station. The VF160 works with 50Hz or 60Hz power frequency.

Stop using immediately if the power cord is frayed or damaged and contact your dealer for repair.

Avoid contact with water or liquids. Do not handle the power plug with wet hands.

Power on connected devices first, then power on the VF160. When connecting/disconnecting cables, ensure channel faders and volume controls are set to “0”.

Before powering off, quit setup mode and ensure the recorder is stopped. Never power off while the hard disk is accessing data (HD ACCESS LED lit/flashing) to prevent data loss and disk damage.

Avoid locations subject to:

Extremely high or low temperature, or significant temperature changes.

Excessive humidity or dust.

Excessive changes in power supply voltage.

Unstable or significantly vibrating/shaking surfaces.

Near strong magnetic fields (like TVs or speakers).

If moved from a cold to a warm place, allow the VF160 to acclimate for about an hour before powering on to prevent condensation damage.

The VF160 has no user-serviceable parts. Contact your dealer or the nearest Fostex service station for repairs.

Use the original packing carton or pack the unit completely with shock-absorbing materials for transport. Fostex is not responsible for damage due to incomplete packaging or during transport.

High-performance DSP multi-effects with A.S.P. (Fostex Advanced Signal Processing) technology.

Intuitive control with 16 input channel faders and 1 stereo master fader.

All input channels feature ON/OFF switch, 3-band equalizer, and PRE/POST switchable 2-channel EFF/AUX sends.

8 analog inputs (A-H) with built-in trim for mic/line level compatibility.

Analog inputs G and H (7/15, 8/16) have both phone (TRS/TS) and XLR connectors with phantom power and insert points.

Two recording assign modes: DIRECT REC (up to 8 analog/16 digital inputs simultaneously) and BUSS REC (for effects, EQ, ping-pong).

Built-in Scene Memory for storing and recalling fader/effect settings (up to 99 scenes).

Outputs mixed-down signals via S/PDIF digital or analog outputs.

Internal mixdown capability, allowing mixdown within the VF160 itself, potentially to an internal CD recorder.

Uses FDMS-3 Fostex format on an E-IDE hard disk.

16-track recording/playback plus 8 additional virtual tracks.

Records uncompressed 16-bit / 44.1kHz audio (Roughly 3 hours per GB in mono).

Nondestructive editing: copy/paste, move/paste, erase, undo/redo.

Program feature: manage up to 99 titles (songs).

+/- 6% pitch control (Vari-pitch).

Direct digital recording via S/PDIF or ADAT inputs.

Auto Punch IN/OUT with rehearsal, settable in 1/100 frame units.

Foot switch input for manual punch IN/OUT.

Dot matrix LCD with auto-illuminating keys.

Graphic display of mixer and recorder settings/modes.

Compatible with standard 3.5-inch E-IDE hard disks.

Standard SCSI terminal for connecting external devices (MO, Zip, CD-RW) for data backup/loading and WAV file transfer.

Optional internal CD-RW drive (CD-1A) for backup/loading song data and creating audio CDs.

Save/load song data via S/PDIF or ADAT digital signals.

MIDI Time Code (MTC) and MIDI Clock/Song Position Pointer output.

MIDI Machine Control (MMC) capabilities.

Slave sync via external MTC input.

Internal metronome function.

Bar/beat editing capabilities.

6 editing memory points and 7 marked points.

0-10 second pre-roll time setting.

The VF160 has two main recording modes (REC ASSIGN):

1. DIRECT Recording:

Used mainly to record unprocessed signals directly from inputs A-H to corresponding tracks (A to 1/9, B to 2/10, …, H to 8/16).

Allows simultaneous recording of up to 8 different analog inputs or up to 16 digital inputs (via ADAT).

Input signals are gain-tuned with the TRIM knob and sent directly to the recorder tracks.

When recording 16 tracks simultaneously using only analog inputs A-H, tracks 1 & 9, 2 & 10, etc., will contain the same audio.

2. BUSS Recording:

Used mainly to record signals processed through the mixer (with EQ, effects) or to record mixed signals from multiple channels/tracks onto one or two tracks (e.g., ping-pong recording).

Signals (input or track playback) are routed through the mixer channels, processed, sent to the REC BUSS (L/R), and then recorded onto the selected track(s).

Allows recording of up to 2 tracks simultaneously (one mono track or a stereo pair onto odd/even tracks).

The channels sent to the REC BUSS are called SOURCE channels.

1. Ensure channel sources (especially 9-16) are set to “TRK” (Track playback). Press [INPUT SEL] to view the “SELECT INPUT/TRACK!” screen. If channels 9-16 show “IN”, press the corresponding [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys (9-16) to toggle them back to “TRK”. (Default is usually TRK).

2. Press the [DIRECT REC TRK] key (flashes RED). The “SEL REC TRK(DIRECT)!” screen appears.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key(s) for the track(s) you want to record onto (1-16). The selected track(s) will show “RDY” (Ready) on the screen, and their corresponding key(s) will flash RED/GREEN.

Input signals A-H will now be recorded directly to the armed tracks (A to 1/9, B to 2/10… H to 8/16).

Tip: Pressing a [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key (1-8 or 9-16) while holding [SHIFT] toggles the armed status for all tracks in that group (1-8 or 9-16) simultaneously.

1. Select Channel Sources: Press the [INPUT SEL] key. On the “SELECT INPUT/TRACK!” screen, set the desired channel faders to receive either the input signal (“IN”) or the track playback signal (“TRK”) by pressing the respective [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key (1-16). For example, to record Input H via channel 16, press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for channel 16 until “IN” appears below it (along with “H”).

Tip: Holding [SHIFT] while pressing a [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key (9-16) toggles all channels 9-16 between “IN” (A-H) and “TRK” simultaneously.

2. Select Recording Sources (SOURCE): Press the [BUSS-SOURCE] key (flashes GREEN). The “SELECT SOURCE!” screen appears. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key(s) for the channel(s) you want to send to the REC BUSS. The selected channel(s) will show “SRC” on the screen. You can select multiple input channels, track playback channels, and even internal effects (EFF1/EFF2) as sources.

Tip: Holding [SHIFT] while pressing a [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key (1-8 or 9-16) sets all channels in that group as recording sources simultaneously.

3. Select Recording Tracks (Destination): Press the [BUSS-REC TRK] key (flashes RED). The “SEL REC TRK(BUSS)!” screen appears. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key(s) for the track(s) you want to record the REC BUSS signal onto. You can select one mono track or a stereo pair (odd/even). The selected track(s) will show “RDY” on the screen, and their corresponding key(s) will flash RED/GREEN.

Note: You cannot select a track number that corresponds to a channel selected as a SOURCE in step 2.

The VF160 records audio data onto an internal E-IDE hard disk, not tape. It uses a Fostex-specific format called FDMS-3. Recording can start at any point on a formatted disk within a 24-hour time range (Absolute Time or ABS). Think of it like a 24-hour tape that you can instantly locate to any point on. Unrecorded areas on the disk do not consume recording time in the same way blank tape does.

A “Program” on the VF160 is essentially a song file or project. You can have up to 99 Programs on the hard disk. Each Program is like an independent 24-hour “tape” containing its own audio recordings (up to 16 tracks + 8 virtual tracks), mixer settings, edit points, etc. Programs can be individually recorded, played, edited, and named without affecting other Programs.

The REMAIN indicator shows the approximate amount of recording time left on the current hard disk. This time is calculated based on recording a single mono track (mono-track basis). To estimate the remaining time for multiple tracks, divide the displayed REMAIN time by the number of tracks you intend to record simultaneously. The display also shows the remaining hard disk space in Megabytes (MB).

“Channel” refers to the mixer’s input paths (1-16 plus master L/R). Each channel has controls like faders, EQ, pan, and sends.

“Track” refers to the recorder’s individual recording paths (1-16 plus virtual tracks 17-24) where audio is stored on the hard disk.

Typically, a recorder track’s playback signal is assigned to a mixer channel fader for level control and processing during playback or mixdown.

In addition to the 16 main playback tracks (1-16), the VF160 has 8 “additional” or “virtual” tracks (17-24). These tracks exist within each Program but cannot be directly recorded onto, played back, or edited. Their purpose is to serve as storage locations for audio data that can be exchanged with tracks 1-16 using the Track Exchange function. This allows you to, for example, record multiple takes of a solo onto tracks 1-8, exchange them with tracks 17-24 for safekeeping, record more takes, and then exchange back the desired take for mixdown.

Playback Monitoring: This is the standard mode where the output of a track is the audio that has already been recorded onto it. You use this to listen to previously recorded material.

Input Monitoring: This mode allows you to hear the live input signal that is being sent *to* a track, bypassing the recorded material on that track. This is used to check the level and sound of the signal *before* or *during* recording. A track is automatically in Input Monitor mode when it is armed for recording (READY state) or actively recording.

An “Event” is an independent block of audio data recorded on a track. Each time you start and stop recording on a track, a new event is created. Even silence between recorded sections is treated as a silent event (a ‘0 file’). Each track within a Program can hold up to 512 events. Exceeding this limit will stop recording. This structure allows for non-destructive editing like copy, paste, and move, as the recorder manipulates these event blocks rather than altering one continuous audio stream.

The TRIM knobs (one for each analog input A-H) adjust the input gain (amplification) for analog signals before they are converted to digital. Proper trim setting is crucial to avoid distortion (clipping) and noise.

1. Connect your analog sound source (mic or line level) to the appropriate input jack (A-H).

2. Have the sound source produce its loudest expected signal.

3. While watching the corresponding PEAK LED (located above the TRIM knob), adjust the TRIM knob.

4. Set the TRIM so that the PEAK LED flashes only occasionally on the very loudest peaks. If the PEAK LED stays lit steadily, the input gain is too high and will cause clipping (distortion). If it never lights, the gain might be too low, potentially resulting in a noisy recording when the level is boosted later.

The goal is to get the strongest signal possible without distortion.

The VF160 has 16 Channel Faders and 1 Master Fader.

Channel Faders 1-8: These always control the playback level of recorder tracks 1-8 respectively.

Channel Faders 9-16: These can control either the playback level of recorder tracks 9-16 OR the level of the analog input signals A-H assigned to these channels. You select which signal (Track playback or Input) these faders control using the [INPUT SEL] key and the corresponding [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for channels 9-16.

Master Fader: This controls the overall output level of the main stereo mix (Stereo Out L/R jacks).

The [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys (one for each channel 1-16 and one for the Master channel) have multiple functions depending on the context and whether the [SHIFT] key is held:

Normal Display Mode:

Press alone: Toggles Mute On/Off for the corresponding channel. (Key OFF = Muted).

Press with [SHIFT]: Toggles Solo On/Off for the corresponding channel.

LED Status: Indicates signal source/status (ORANGE=Input Active, GREEN=Track Playback Active, RED=Record Ready/Recording, OFF=Muted/Inactive).

Parameter Editing (after pressing PAN, EQ, SEND keys etc.):

Press alone: Selects that channel for parameter editing.

Input/Track Selection (Channels 9-16 only, after pressing [INPUT SEL]):

Press alone: Toggles the source for that fader between Track Playback (“TRK”, GREEN LED) and Input (“IN”, ORANGE LED).

Track Arming (after pressing [DIRECT REC TRK] or [BUSS-REC TRK]):

Press alone: Toggles Record Ready (Arm) On/Off for the corresponding track. (RED LED = Ready).

Source Selection (after pressing [BUSS-SOURCE]):

Press alone: Selects/deselects that channel as a source for the REC BUSS.

The VF160 uses a time base to indicate the recorder’s current location. There are 3 types:

1. ABS (Absolute Time): Shows time in Hours:Minutes:Seconds:Frames (H:MM:SS:FF) from the absolute start of the program (00:00:00:00) up to 23:59:59:FF. This is the fundamental time base of the hard disk.

2. BAR/BEAT/CLK (Bar, Beat, Clock): Shows location in musical bars, beats, and clock ticks based on the program’s tempo map. The ABS 0 point corresponds to an offset bar (default is Bar -002), and subsequent bars are calculated based on the set tempo and time signature.

3. MTC (MIDI Time Code): Displays the time based on incoming or generated MIDI Time Code. The ABS 0 point corresponds to an MTC Offset time (default 00h 59m 57s 00f), allowing synchronization with external MTC devices.

Press the [DISP SEL/TIME BASE] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

Each press cycles through the available time bases: ABS -> BAR/BEAT/CLK -> MTC -> ABS…

The currently selected time base is shown on the main LCD display.

[INPUT] (Unbalanced) Jack (A-F): 1/4″ phone jacks for unbalanced line or instrument level inputs (-50dBV to +2dBV).

[INPUT BAL] (Balanced) Jack (G, H): XLR jacks for balanced microphone or line level inputs (-50dBV to +2dBV / approx. -48dBu to +4dBu). Provides +48V phantom power (switchable in SETUP). Disconnected if UNBAL jack G/H is used.

[INPUT UNBAL] (Unbalanced) Jack (G, H): 1/4″ phone jacks for unbalanced line or instrument level inputs (-50dBV to +2dBV). Using these disconnects the corresponding XLR input.

[INSERT] Jack (G, H): 1/4″ TRS phone jacks for inserting external processors (like compressors) into channels G and H. Standard level: -10dBV. Requires a Y-cable (Tip=Send, Ring=Return, Sleeve=GND).

[MON OUT] (Monitor Output) Jack (L, R): 1/4″ phone jacks for connecting monitor speakers (powered) or an amplifier. Standard output level: -10dBV.

[PHONES] (Headphones) Jack: 1/4″ TRS phone jack for connecting headphones.

[PEAK] LED (1-8): Lights up approx. 2dB below clipping level for the corresponding input (A-H). Used to set TRIM levels.

[TRIM] Knob (1-8): Adjusts input gain for inputs A-H (-50dBV MIC to +2dBV LINE).

[MON OUT] (Monitor Output) Knob: Adjusts the output level of the [MON OUT] jacks.

[PHONES] (Headphones) Knob: Adjusts the output level of the [PHONES] jack.

Store a Scene:

1. Arrange your mixer settings (faders, EQ, pan, effects, etc.) as desired.

2. Press the [SCENE-STORE/MAP] key. The display will prompt you to select a Scene memory location (00-99).

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired Scene number.

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key to store the current settings to that Scene number.

Recall a Scene:

1. Press the [SCENE-RECALL/DIRECT RCL] key. The display will prompt you to select a Scene memory location.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired Scene number.

3. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The stored mixer settings are recalled. Note that physical faders may not match the recalled levels initially (see Fader Adjust function).

Direct Recall: Press [SCENE-RECALL/DIRECT RCL] while holding [SHIFT]. Use the [JOG] dial to select a scene and press [ENTER/YES] for immediate recall without confirmation.

Erase a Scene: Simultaneously press [SCENE-STORE/MAP] and [SCENE-RECALL/DIRECT RCL]. Select the Scene number to erase using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

Select Effect Type & Edit Parameters:

1. Press [EFF EDIT-EFF1/MUTE] for Effect 1 or [EFF EDIT-EFF2/MUTE] for Effect 2.

2. The Effect selection menu appears. Use the [JOG] dial to scroll through the available effect types (Reverb, Delay, Chorus, etc.).

3. Press [ENTER/YES] to select the desired effect type.

4. The parameter editing screen for the selected effect appears.

5. Repeatedly press the same [EFF EDIT] key ([EFF EDIT-EFF1] or [EFF EDIT-EFF2]) to cycle through the available parameters for that effect.

6. Use the [JOG] dial to change the value of the selected parameter.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished editing.

Mute Effects:

Press [EFF EDIT-EFF1/MUTE] while holding [SHIFT] to toggle Mute On/Off for Effect 1.

Press [EFF EDIT-EFF2/MUTE] while holding [SHIFT] to toggle Mute On/Off for Effect 2.

These keys allow detailed editing of specific parameters for individual channels:

1. Press the key corresponding to the parameter you want to edit (e.g., [PAN/FADER], [EQ/COMP-HI/G/F/Q/COMP], [EFF1/EFF2/PRE/POST], [AUX1/AUX2/PRE/POST]).

2. The corresponding parameter edit screen appears, usually prompting “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to edit.

4. The current setting for that channel is displayed.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to change the parameter value.

6. For keys with multiple parameters (like EQ or Sends), press the parameter edit key again to cycle through the available sub-parameters (e.g., Gain, Frequency, Q for EQ).

7. Some keys have a secondary function accessed by holding [SHIFT] while pressing the key (e.g., [SHIFT] + [PAN/FADER] accesses Fader level adjust, [SHIFT] + [EQ/COMP-HI] accesses Compressor settings).

8. To edit another channel, press its [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key and repeat step 5.

9. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

[MASTER CH STATUS/CH SEL] Key:

In Normal Display: Toggles Mute On/Off for the main stereo output. (GREEN = On, OFF = Muted).

In Parameter Edit Modes: Selects the Master channel for editing applicable parameters (like Master Send Levels).

[MASTER] Fader:

Adjusts the final output level of the mixed stereo signal sent to the [ST OUT-L/R] jacks and often affects the level sent to [MON OUT] and [PHONES] depending on monitoring setup.

[INPUT SEL] Key:

Brings up the “SELECT INPUT/TRACK!” screen.

Used with [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys 9-16 to select whether faders 9-16 control Track playback or Input signals.

When held with [SHIFT] in normal display, toggles Input Monitor (Ready) On/Off for all tracks 1-16 simultaneously (Adat Mixer Mode – for DIRECT recording only).

REC ASSIGN Keys: These keys determine the recording mode and select sources/tracks.

[BUSS-SOURCE] Key: Enters BUSS recording source selection mode. Used with [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys to select which channels feed the REC BUSS. Lights GREEN when active.

[BUSS-REC TRK] Key: Enters BUSS recording track destination mode. Used with [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys to arm track(s) for BUSS recording. Flashes RED when active, lights RED when track(s) armed.

[DIRECT-REC TRK] Key: Enters DIRECT recording track destination mode. Used with [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys to arm track(s) for DIRECT recording. Flashes RED when active, lights RED when track(s) armed.

[INT MIXDOWN] Key: (Not pictured with the others, but related) Activates the internal mixdown mode.

[DISP SEL/TIMEBASE] Key:

Press alone: Cycles through different LCD views (Normal Time, Remaining Time, MTC Input Time).

Press with [SHIFT]: Cycles through the main time base modes (ABS, BAR/BEAT/CLK, MTC).

[PGM SEL] Key:

Used to select the active Program (song) from 01 to 99.

Also used to create new programs.

[SETUP] Key:

Enters the SETUP mode, where various global parameters for the recorder and mixer are configured (e.g., Sync settings, Digital I/O, Phantom Power, Fader Pairing, etc.).

These keys store specific time points for various functions. Each key stores two related values: one for editing/automation (like Auto Punch points) and one general Mark point (MARK1-7) for location.

Storing a Point:

1. Go to the desired time point in PLAY or STOP mode.

2. Press the [HOLD/>] key. The time is held on the LCD.

3. Press the [STORE] key (lights RED).

4. Press the desired Memory Key (e.g., [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2]) to store the time as the editing point (e.g., PUNCH IN point).

5. OR, press the desired Memory Key while holding [SHIFT] (e.g., [SHIFT] + [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2]) to store the time as the Mark point (e.g., MARK2).

Locating a Stored Point:

Press the [LOCATE/EVT MEM] key. The last located point (editing point or Mark point) is displayed.

Press the Memory Key corresponding to the desired editing point (e.g., [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2] locates to the PUNCH IN point).

Press the Memory Key while holding [SHIFT] corresponding to the desired Mark point (e.g., [SHIFT] + [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2] locates to MARK2).

Key Assignments:

[AUTO RTN-START/MARK1]: Auto Return Start point / MARK1

[AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2]: Auto Punch In point / MARK2

[AUTO PUNCH-OUT/MARK3]: Auto Punch Out point / MARK3

[AUTO RTN-END/MARK4]: Auto Return End point / MARK4

[CLIPBOARD-IN/MARK5]: Clipboard In point / MARK5

[CLIPBOARD-ALIGN SEL/MARK6]: Clipboard Align Select point / MARK6

[CLIPBOARD-OUT/MARK7]: Clipboard Out point / MARK7

Press Alone: Cycles through the Auto modes, shown on the LCD:

Auto Play -> Auto Return -> Auto Repeat -> OFF

(See Auto Function section for details on these modes).

Press with [SHIFT]: Toggles the Scene Sequence mode On/Off.

When Scene Sequence is ON, the normal display shows “S**” (Scene number) reversed (white on black), and scenes will change automatically based on the Scene Event Map during playback.

[HOLD/>] Key:

Press alone: Captures (holds) the current time value displayed on the LCD, allowing it to be stored or edited.

During parameter editing: Moves the cursor to the right (or down).

Press with [SHIFT] during parameter editing: Moves the cursor to the left (or up).

[STORE] Key:

Used after pressing [HOLD/>] to initiate storing the held time into a Memory Key or Mark point.

Used during editing procedures (like Punch points, EQ settings) to confirm and save the edited value.

The [EDIT] key accesses the track audio editing functions. Pressing it repeatedly cycles through the available edit types:

[Copy Clip]

[Move Clip]

[Copy Paste] or [Move Paste]

[Erase]

[Track Exchange]

[UNDO/REDO] Key:

Press once after an edit operation (Paste, Erase, Track Exchange) or recording (including punch-in/out) to cancel it (Undo).

Press again after an Undo to reinstate the operation (Redo).

[VARI PITCH/P.EDIT] Key:

Press alone: Toggles Variable Pitch Control On/Off (allows +/- 6% speed/pitch change during Play/Record). Key lights ON when active.

Press with [SHIFT]: Enters Pitch Edit mode to adjust the speed/pitch variation percentage.

[LOCATE/EVT MEM] Key:

Press alone: Locates to the most recently accessed Memory Key point (editing point or Mark point). Called “LAST LOCATE”.

Press with [SHIFT]: Enters Event Memory edit mode (used for Scene Event Map) or Locates to a specific Event Memory point if pressed after selecting one in the Event Map screen.

[RECORD/AUTO PUNCH] Key:

Press with [PLAY]: Starts recording on armed (READY) tracks.

Press alone: Arms/disarms tracks (toggles Input Monitor mode, key flashes).

Press during recording: Performs manual Punch Out if pressed with [PLAY], otherwise may stop recording depending on context.

Press with [SHIFT]: Toggles Auto Punch mode On/Off.

[STOP] Key:

Stops Playback, Recording, Rewind, or Fast Forward.

Used in SETUP or Edit modes to cancel or go back one step.

Press with [PLAY]: Executes Clipboard Play.

Press with [REWIND]: Locates to ABS 0.

Press with [F FWD]: Locates to REC END (end of the last recorded section).

[PLAY] Key:

Starts playback.

Press with [RECORD]: Starts recording.

Press during recording: Performs Punch Out (cancels recording but continues playback).

Press with [STOP]: Executes Clipboard Play.

[REWIND/PREV] Key:

Press alone (stopped): Rewinds at 30x speed.

Press alone (playing): Rewinds with audio cueing at 3x speed.

Press with [SHIFT]: Locates to the previous Event Memory point (Skip Locate backward).

Press with [STOP]: Locates to ABS 0.

During parameter editing: Moves cursor left/up or decreases value.

[F FWD/NEXT] Key:

Press alone (stopped): Fast forwards at 30x speed.

Press alone (playing): Fast forwards with audio cueing at 3x speed.

Press with [SHIFT]: Locates to the next Event Memory point (Skip Locate forward).

Press with [STOP]: Locates to REC END.

During parameter editing: Moves cursor right/down or increases value.

[SCRUB] Key:

Activates digital scrubbing mode. Turn the [JOG] dial while SCRUB is active to move through audio slowly forward or backward without pitch change, useful for finding precise edit points.

[FADER ADJUST/LEVEL ADJUST] Key:

Flashes after recalling a Scene if physical fader positions don’t match stored levels.

Press alone: Enters Fader Adjust Mode, allowing manual matching of physical faders to recalled levels.

Press with [SHIFT]: Enters Level Adjust Mode, forcing the channel volumes to instantly match the recalled Scene levels (ignoring physical fader positions).

[SHIFT] Key:

Held down while pressing other keys to access secondary functions (usually labeled below the primary key function).

Held down while turning the [JOG/SHUTTLE] dial activates Shuttle mode.

[EXIT/NO/EJECT] Key:

Used to cancel operations, exit menus, or answer “NO” to prompts.

Acts as the opposite of [ENTER/YES].

Press with [SHIFT]: Ejects removable SCSI media (if applicable and configured).

[ENTER/YES] Key:

Used to confirm selections, execute commands, enter submenus, or answer “YES” to prompts.

[JOG/SHUTTLE] Dial:

JOG (Turn normally): Used to scroll through menus, select options, change parameter values incrementally, or perform digital scrubbing when [SCRUB] is active.

SHUTTLE (Turn while holding [SHIFT]): Controls playback speed forward or reverse (1x to 64x) depending on how far the dial is turned.

[ACCESS] LED: Lights ON when the internal hard disk drive or an external SCSI device (for backup) is actively reading or writing data. Do not turn off power while this LED is lit.

[PHANTOM] LED: Lights ON when +48V phantom power for condenser microphones (connected to XLR inputs G and H) is turned ON in the SETUP menu.

Use the Contrast Adjusting Knob located to the right of the LCD screen. Turn it clockwise or counterclockwise to increase or decrease the contrast (difference in brightness) for optimal viewing.

[AUX SEND-1/2] Jack: 1/4″ TRS phone jack (Tip=AUX1, Ring=AUX2, Sleeve=GND) for sending signals to external effects or monitors. Standard Output Level: -10dBV. Use a Y-cable to separate sends.

[ST OUT-L/R] Jack: RCA (pin) jacks for stereo output to a master recorder or external mixer. Standard Output Level: -10dBV.

[MIDI IN] Jack: Standard 5-pin DIN connector for receiving MIDI signals (like MTC, MMC).

[MIDI OUT] Jack: Standard 5-pin DIN connector for sending MIDI signals (like MTC, MIDI Clock, MMC).

[DIGITAL/DATA IN] Jack: Optical (Toslink square) connector for receiving digital audio (S/PDIF or ADAT format, selectable in SETUP) or loading song data.

[DIGITAL/DATA OUT] Jack: Optical (Toslink square) connector for sending digital audio (S/PDIF or ADAT format, selectable in SETUP) or saving song data.

[FOOT SW] Jack: 1/4″ phone jack for connecting an unlatched footswitch (like Fostex Model 8051) for Punch IN/OUT control.

[SCSI] Connector: 50-pin Half-pitch D-sub connector for connecting external SCSI devices (ID 0-6) for backup/restore or WAV file transfer.

[POWER] switch: Turns the main power On/Off.

[AC IN] Jack: Inlet for the AC power cable.

Warning: Reformatting erases ALL data (songs, settings) on the hard disk and restores the VF160 to default settings. Ensure you have backed up any needed data first.

1. Turn ON the VF160 power.

2. Press the [SETUP] key to enter SETUP mode.

3. Turn the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Disk Format” menu option.

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The Drive Select screen appears, with “IDE” highlighted (for the internal drive).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] again while “IDE” is highlighted.

6. The Format Type Select screen appears. Use the [FFWD] or [REWIND] key to select the format type:

* Standard: Performs a thorough format, checking for bad sectors. Recommended for reliability, but takes longer.

* Erase: Quickly erases all data while keeping the existing “Standard” format structure. Faster than Standard, available only if previously Standard formatted.

* Quick: Very fast format assuming all sectors are good. Only recommended for new, Fostex-confirmed compatible disks or when speed is critical and data integrity risk is acceptable.

7. Press [ENTER/YES]. “Sure?” flashes on the screen.

8. Press the [ENTER/YES] key while holding down the [RECORD] key to confirm and start formatting.

9. Wait for the process to complete. The screen shows progress for “Standard” format or finishes quickly for “Erase”/”Quick”. “Completed!” appears when done.

10. Press [EXIT/NO] (or [STOP]) to exit SETUP mode. Program P01 is automatically created.

Warning: Replacing the hard disk yourself may void the warranty for related malfunctions. Fostex recommends having this done by their Customer Service. If you proceed yourself, Fostex is not liable for accidents or damage.

Precautions Upon Replacement:

Always turn OFF the VF160 power and unplug the power cord before opening the unit.

Work on a flat, stable surface. Place a soft cloth under the unit to prevent scratching. Consider wearing gloves.

Precautions Upon Handling the Hard Disk:

Hard disks are sensitive. Avoid strong shocks or exposure to strong magnetic fields.

Set the jumper on the new hard disk to [Cable Select]. Using [MASTER] or [SLAVE] settings may cause malfunction. Consult the hard disk manual for jumper settings.

Connectors can be stiff. Insert gently and straight. Do not force the connection, as this can cause damage or injury.

Use only Fostex-recommended compatible hard drives. Check the Fostex website or contact your distributor for an updated list.

Ensure power is OFF and the unit is unplugged.

1. Turn the VF160 upside down on a soft surface. Unscrew the four screws securing the bottom panel.

2. Remove the panel. The hard disk, covered with a cushion, will be visible.

3. Carefully lift the cushion and hard disk assembly out. Slightly lifting the cushion upward may help.

4. Gently hold the connector sections and disconnect the two cables (IDE ribbon and power) from the hard disk.

5. Prepare the new, compatible hard disk (ensure jumper is set to Cable Select).

6. Connect the two cables to the new hard disk, ensuring proper orientation.

7. Carefully place the new hard disk and cushion back into position in the VF160 chassis.

8. Ensure no cables are pinched or obstructing the panel.

9. Replace the bottom panel, aligning the screw holes, and secure it with the four screws.

10. Turn the VF160 right side up. You will need to format the new disk after installation.

1. After physically installing the new hard disk, plug in the power cable and turn ON the VF160.

2. The VF160 should detect the unformatted disk (“Unformat!”) and automatically enter SETUP mode, displaying the “Disk Format” menu.

3. Press [ENTER/YES]. The drive selection screen appears (“IDE” should be flashing).

4. Press [ENTER/YES] again.

5. The Format Type Select screen appears. Use the [FFWD]/[REWIND] keys to select “Standard”.

6. Press [ENTER/YES]. “Sure?” flashes.

7. Press [ENTER/YES] while holding down the [RECORD] key to confirm and start formatting.

8. Wait for the “Standard” format process to complete. “Completed!” will appear.

9. Press [EXIT/NO] (or [STOP]) to exit SETUP mode. The disk is now ready to use.

1. Turn on the VF160. Program 1 (P01) will load automatically.

2. Press the [PLAY] key.

3. Observe the LCD level meters:

* If the level meters move and you hear music, a demonstration song is recorded on P01. The program title might indicate the demo song name.

* If the level meters do not move and there is no sound, there is no demonstration song. The program title will likely be a default like “#0001”.

You cannot record new material onto Program 1 if it contains the demonstration song (unless you disable write protection). You have a few options:

Option 1: Keep the demo song and record on a new program:

Create a new program (e.g., P02). See “How do I create a new Program?”. You can then record your material onto this new program.

Option 2: Overwrite the demo song on Program 1:

Go to SETUP mode, find the “Rec Protect” menu, and set it to “Off” for Program 1. You can now record over the demo song. See “How do I enable or disable Record Protect for programs?”.

Option 3: Delete the demo song:

Delete Program 1. A new, blank Program 1 will be automatically created, ready for recording. See “How do I erase a Program?”.

If your unit does not have a demonstration song, you can start recording on Program 1 immediately.

Pressing the [DISP SEL/TIME BASE] key (without Shift) cycles through these main views:

1. Normal Display of Current Time Base: Shows the current recorder location using the selected time base (ABS, BAR/BEAT/CLK, or MTC), Program number/title, Scene number/name (if active), and track level meters.

2. REMAIN Display of Current Time Base: Shows the remaining recording time (mono-track basis) and remaining disk space (MB), along with icons indicating format type, drive name, sample rate (REC 44.1k), sync status (CLK/MTC), vari-pitch status (VARI), and MTC frame rate (25F etc.). Also includes track level meters.

3. MTC Time Display Input: Shows the incoming MTC time signal (if connected and Slave mode is active), Program number/title, Scene number/name, and track level meters.

Common icons, typically seen on the REMAIN display:

REC: Indicates Record Protect status. Icon shown means recording is possible (Protect is Off). No icon means Protect is On.

44.1k: Indicates the sampling frequency (fixed at 44.1kHz).

IDE / SCSI: Indicates the currently selected drive (Internal IDE or external SCSI).

CLK / MTC / VARI: Indicates MIDI Sync Output setting (Clock / MTC) or Slave Type setting (if set to VARI).

24F / 25F / 3DF / 30F: Indicates the MTC Frame Rate setting.

Preparation:

1. Connect the sound source to the desired input jack (e.g., Input 1/9/A).

2. Ensure VF160 is in DIRECT Record mode implicitly (or explicitly select it if needed, though it’s often the default for simple recording).

3. Press [INPUT SEL] and ensure channel faders 9-16 are set to “TRK” (Track playback – GREEN light).

4. Press [DIRECT-REC TRK] (flashes RED).

5. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the track you want to record onto (e.g., press key 1 for track 1). The key flashes RED/GREEN, and “RDY” appears under track 1 on the LCD.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to return to the Normal Display.

7. Press [RECORD]. The [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the armed track (e.g., track 1) flashes RED (Input Monitor mode).

8. Set the corresponding channel fader (e.g., fader 1) and the Master Fader to “0” (or desired monitoring level).

9. Play the sound source at its loudest level and adjust the corresponding [TRIM] knob (e.g., TRIM 1/9/A) so the PEAK LED flashes only occasionally.

Recording:

1. Press [REWIND] while holding [STOP] to locate to ABS 0 (or locate to your desired start time).

2. Press [RECORD] while holding down the [PLAY] key to start recording.

3. The [RECORD] key and the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the recording track light solid RED.

Stopping:

1. Press the [STOP] key. Recording stops, and the display returns to Normal.

Playback:

1. Locate to the desired start point (e.g., ABS 0).

2. Press the [PLAY] key. Adjust the channel fader (e.g., fader 1) to hear the playback.

Disarm Track: After checking, press [DIRECT-REC TRK], press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the recorded track to turn off “RDY”, then press [EXIT/NO].

This example records a stereo source connected to Inputs G (7/15) and H (8/16) onto tracks 15 and 16.

Preparation:

1. Connect the stereo sound source outputs to [INPUT] jacks 7/15/G and 8/16/H.

2. Press [DIRECT-REC TRK] (flashes RED).

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for tracks 15 and 16. The keys flash RED/GREEN, and “RDY” appears under tracks 15 and 16 on the LCD.

4. Press [EXIT/NO] to return to the Normal Display.

5. Press [RECORD]. The [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for tracks 15 and 16 flash RED (Input Monitor mode).

6. Set channel faders 15 and 16 and the Master Fader to “0” (or desired monitoring level). Consider pairing faders 15 & 16 for easier control (see “How do I pair faders?”).

7. Play the sound source at its loudest level and adjust the [TRIM] knobs 7/15/G and 8/16/H so their PEAK LEDs flash only occasionally.

Recording:

1. Locate the time to start recording.

2. Press [RECORD] while holding down the [PLAY] key to start recording.

3. The [RECORD] key and the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for tracks 15 and 16 light solid RED.

4. If you have previously recorded tracks (e.g., track 1), you can raise their faders to monitor them while overdubbing onto tracks 15 and 16.

Stopping:

1. Press the [STOP] key.

Playback:

1. Locate to the start point.

2. Press [PLAY]. Adjust faders 15 and 16 to hear playback.

ABS Locate refers to functions that quickly move the recorder position to specific points based on Absolute Time (ABS):

Locate ABS 0: Press [REWIND] while holding [STOP]. Moves to the very beginning of the program (00H 00M 00S 00F).

Locate REC END: Press [F FWD] while holding [STOP]. Moves to the end point of the very last recorded audio segment in the current program.

Locate Last Record Start: Press [RECORD] while holding [STOP]. Moves to the start time of the most recent recording pass.

The seven keys labeled [AUTO RTN-START/MARK1] through [CLIPBOARD-OUT/MARK7] can each store time points for location. They are primarily used to store points for specific editing functions (Auto Return Start/End, Auto Punch In/Out, Clipboard In/Out/Align). However, by using the [SHIFT] key during the store process, you can store a separate set of general-purpose location points called Mark points (MARK1 through MARK7) using the same physical keys. This gives you up to 7 dedicated editing points and 7 general Mark points for quick navigation within your program.

1. Ensure the recorder is in PLAY or STOP status.

2. Go to the exact time point you want to save.

3. Press the [HOLD/>] key. The time is held on the LCD display.

4. Press the [STORE] key (it lights solid RED). The LCD shows “Hit Any Memory Keys!”.

5. To store as an Editing Point: Press the desired Memory Key (e.g., [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2] to store the PUNCH IN point).

To store as a Mark Point: Press the desired Memory Key while holding down the [SHIFT] key (e.g., [SHIFT] + [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2] to store MARK2).

6. The time is saved, and the system returns to the Normal Display.

To locate to an Editing Point: Simply press the corresponding Memory Key (e.g., pressing [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2] locates to the stored PUNCH IN point).

To locate to a Mark Point: Press the corresponding Memory Key while holding down the [SHIFT] key (e.g., pressing [SHIFT] + [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2] locates to the stored MARK2 point).

The LCD briefly shows the name of the point (e.g., “A.PUNCH IN” or “MARK: 2”) and the stored time, then the recorder locates to that time.

Tip: You can also press the [LOCATE/EVT MEM] key to instantly jump to the location of the last Memory or Mark point that was accessed.

1. Locate to the Memory or Mark point you want to change using the direct location method described above. The point name and current time appear on the LCD.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to change the displayed time value. Use the [HOLD/>] key (and [SHIFT] + [HOLD/>]) to move the flashing cursor between time fields (Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Frames, etc.).

3. Once the desired new time is displayed, press the [STORE] key (lights RED).

4. Press the same Memory Key (or [SHIFT] + Memory Key for Mark points) that you originally located to in step 1.

5. The modified time is saved to that point, and the system returns to the Normal Display.

Event Memory points (00-99) are general-purpose location markers, also used for the Scene Event Map.

1. Go to the desired time point while the recorder is stopped or playing.

2. Press the [HOLD/>] key. The time is held on the LCD.

3. Press the [STORE] key (lights RED). The LCD shows “Hit Any Memory Keys!”.

4. Press the [LOCATE/EVT MEM] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

5. “Entry EVT**” (where ** is the next available Event Memory number) appears briefly, and the time is stored.

Event memories are automatically numbered in chronological order based on their time, regardless of the order they were created.

1. Press the [SCENE-STORE/MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

2. The “EVENT MAP (Event No.Select)” screen appears, listing the stored Event Memory points with their numbers, times, and any assigned Scene numbers (or “Non” if none assigned).

3. Rotate the [JOG] dial to scroll through the list.

4. Press [EXIT/NO] to return to the Normal display.

1. Press the [SCENE-STORE/MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key to view the Event Memory list.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the desired Event Memory number.

3. Press the [LOCATE/EVT MEM] key (the main, non-shifted function).

4. The recorder locates to the time stored in that Event Memory point and returns to the Normal Display.

Skip Locate allows you to jump directly to the next or previous Event Memory point relative to the current recorder position.

Skip Backwards: Press the [REWIND/PREV] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The recorder jumps to the Event Memory point immediately preceding the current location.

Skip Forwards: Press the [F FWD/NEXT] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The recorder jumps to the Event Memory point immediately following the current location.

You can press the key combination multiple times to skip over several Event Memory points.

This method is suitable for rough corrections but less precise during performance.

1. Arm the track(s) you want to record onto using [DIRECT-REC TRK] or [BUSS-REC TRK] and the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys.

2. Press [RECORD] to put the armed track(s) into Input Monitor mode (key flashes RED).

3. Set levels (TRIM, faders) as needed.

4. Press [PLAY] to start playback before the point where you want to start recording.

5. Punch In: At the desired start point, press the [RECORD] key (while PLAY is active). Recording starts on the armed track(s).

6. Punch Out: At the desired end point, press the [PLAY] key. Recording stops, but playback continues.

7. Press [STOP] when finished.

This allows hands-free punch control during performance.

1. Connect a compatible unlatched footswitch (e.g., Fostex 8051) to the [FOOT SW] jack on the rear panel.

2. Arm the track(s) for recording and set levels as described for Manual Punch.

3. Press [PLAY] to start playback before the punch-in point.

4. Punch In: Step on the footswitch at the desired start point. Recording begins.

5. Punch Out: Step on the footswitch again at the desired end point. Recording stops, playback continues.

6. Press [STOP] when finished.

Tip – Rehearsal: Before punching in, you can rehearse by stepping on the footswitch while the [STOP] key is held down. This activates Input Monitoring (“Rhrsl On” appears) without recording. Step on the footswitch again to exit Input Monitor. To cancel rehearsal mode, step on the footswitch while [STOP] is held down again (“Rhrsl Off” appears).

1. Locate the exact time you want the recording to start (Punch In point).

2. Press [HOLD/>], then [STORE], then the [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2] key.

3. Locate the exact time you want the recording to stop (Punch Out point).

4. Press [HOLD/>], then [STORE], then the [AUTO PUNCH-OUT/MARK3] key.

Note: The PUNCH IN time must be earlier than the PUNCH OUT time.

1. Program the PUNCH IN and PUNCH OUT points as described above.

2. Arm the track(s) for recording and set levels.

3. Press the [RECORD] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key to enter Auto Punch Mode. “RHSL” (Rehearsal) starts flashing on the LCD.

4. Locate to a point before the PUNCH IN time.

5. Press only the [PLAY] key.

6. Playback starts. When the PUNCH IN point is reached, the armed track(s) switch to Input Monitor (you hear the live input). When the PUNCH OUT point is reached, they switch back to playback. No actual recording takes place.

7. You can repeat steps 4 and 5 to rehearse multiple times.

8. Press [STOP] when finished rehearsing.

1. After programming points and rehearsing, ensure the track(s) are armed and Auto Punch Mode is active (“RHSL” flashing).

2. Locate to a point before the PUNCH IN time.

3. Press the [RECORD] key while holding down the [PLAY] key.

4. Playback starts. At the PUNCH IN point, recording automatically begins on the armed track(s) (“RHSL” changes to “TAKE” and lights solid). At the PUNCH OUT point, recording automatically stops, and the recorder exits Auto Punch mode.

5. Press [STOP] when desired.

Tip – Undo/Redo: If the take was unsatisfactory, press [UNDO/REDO] immediately to revert the track to its state before the punch-in.

Track Exchange swaps the audio content between tracks (including the virtual tracks 17-24). This is useful for managing alternate takes or rearranging material.

1. Ensure the recorder is in STOP mode.

2. Press the [EDIT] key repeatedly until “Track Exchange?” appears on the LCD.

3. Press [ENTER/YES]. The track selection menu appears (e.g., “01-08<=>17-24″).

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the unit size for exchange:

* 8-track blocks (e.g., 01-08 <=> 09-16, 01-08 <=> 17-24, 09-16 <=> 17-24)

* 2-track stereo pairs (e.g., 01&02 <=> 03&04)

* Single mono tracks (e.g., 04 <=> 19)

5. The display shows the currently selected ‘from’ track(s) on the left of “<=>“. Turn the [JOG] dial to choose the desired ‘from’ track(s).

6. Press the [HOLD/>] key to move the cursor to the right side (‘to’ tracks).

7. Turn the [JOG] dial to choose the desired ‘to’ track(s).

8. Press [ENTER/YES] to execute the exchange. “Exchange” appears briefly, followed by “Completed!”.

Note: You cannot exchange a track with itself (e.g., 03 <=> 03). “Select Err!” will appear.

Use the individual Channel Faders (1-16) to adjust the playback level of each recorded track.

Use the Master Fader to control the overall level of the final stereo mix sent to the Stereo Output.

Monitor the levels using the LCD meters. Aim for the Master L/R meters to peak close to 0dB without exceeding it to avoid digital clipping.

PAN (Panorama) controls the position of a channel’s signal in the stereo field (left to right).

1. Press the [PAN/FADER] key.

2. The PAN EDIT screen appears, prompting “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to adjust.

4. The screen shows the current PAN setting for that channel (e.g., “Trk 1: C”).

5. Turn the [JOG] dial left or right to change the PAN position. The range is from L10 (hard left) through C (center) to R10 (hard right). A graphic display also shows the position.

6. To adjust another channel, press its [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key and repeat step 5.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

Each channel has a 3-band parametric EQ (High, Mid, Low).

1. Select the EQ band to adjust:

* Press [EQ/COMP-HI/G/F/Q/COMP] for the High band.

* Press [EQ/COMP-MID-G/F/Q] for the Mid band.

* Press [EQ/COMP-LO-G/CH VIEW] for the Low band.

2. The EQ Edit screen appears, prompting “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to EQ.

4. The screen displays the current settings for the selected band (Gain ‘G’, Frequency ‘F’, Q ‘Q’ – bandwidth/shape).

5. For High and Mid bands, press the same EQ key again to cycle through the parameters you want to adjust (G -> F -> Q -> G…). For the Low band, only Gain (G) is adjustable.

6. Turn the [JOG] dial to change the value of the selected parameter (Gain, Frequency, or Q).

7. To adjust another band or another channel, repeat the steps.

8. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

Note: You can also bypass the EQ for a channel within this edit screen.

This controls how much of the channel’s signal is sent to the internal effects processors (EFF1 and EFF2).

1. Press the [CH PARAM EDIT-EFF1/EFF2/PRE/POST] key. Press repeatedly to select either EFF1 SEND or EFF2 SEND display.

2. The screen prompts “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to adjust (or the Master channel key for the overall effect return).

4. The screen shows the current send level for that channel to the selected effect processor.

5. Turn the [JOG] dial to adjust the send level (typically 00 to 99).

6. To adjust another channel or the other effect send, repeat the steps.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

This determines if the effect send level is taken before (Pre) or after (Post) the channel fader.

* Pre-fader: The send level is independent of the channel fader position. Often used for monitor mixes.

* Post-fader: The send level is affected by the channel fader position (fader down = no send). Usually used for effects like reverb/delay so the effect level follows the main channel volume.

Procedure:

1. Press the [CH PARAM EDIT-EFF1/EFF2/PRE/POST] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. Press repeatedly to select either EFF1 PRE/POST or EFF2 PRE/POST display.

2. The screen prompts “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to set.

4. Turn the [JOG] dial to select either “PRE” or “POST”.

5. Repeat for other channels or the other effect send as needed.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

AUX sends are typically used for external effects or monitor mixes, sending signal to the [AUX SEND-1/2] rear panel jack.

1. Press the [CH PARAM EDIT-AUX1/AUX2/PRE/POST] key. Press repeatedly to select either AUX1 SEND or AUX2 SEND display.

2. The screen prompts “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to adjust.

4. The screen shows the current AUX send level for that channel.

5. Turn the [JOG] dial to adjust the send level (typically 00-99).

6. Repeat for other channels or the other AUX send as needed.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

Similar to Effect Sends, this determines if the AUX send is taken before or after the channel fader.

1. Press the [CH PARAM EDIT-AUX1/AUX2/PRE/POST] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. Press repeatedly to select either AUX1 PRE/POST or AUX2 PRE/POST display.

2. The screen prompts “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to set.

4. Turn the [JOG] dial to select either “PRE” or “POST”.

5. Repeat for other channels or the other AUX send as needed.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

This allows fine adjustment of the channel fader’s effective level numerically.

1. Press the [PAN/FADER] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

2. The FADER level edit screen appears, prompting “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to adjust.

4. The screen shows the current numerical fader level.

5. Turn the [JOG] dial to adjust the level value.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

The VF160 has built-in compressors that can be applied.

1. Press the [EQ/COMP-HI/G/F/Q/COMP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

2. The Compressor edit screen appears, prompting “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to apply compression to.

4. The screen displays the compressor parameters (e.g., Threshold, Ratio, Attack, Release, Gain).

5. Press the same key combination ([SHIFT] + [EQ/COMP-HI]) repeatedly to cycle through the parameters.

6. Turn the [JOG] dial to adjust the value of the selected parameter.

7. You can also turn the compressor On/Off for the selected channel from this screen.

8. Refer to SETUP mode (Compressor Channel Setting) to determine if the compressor affects the Input or Track signal for channels 9-16.

9. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

The Channel View provides a summary of the main settings for a selected channel.

1. Press the [EQ/COMP-LO-G/CH VIEW] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

2. The Channel View screen appears, prompting “Select CH!”.

3. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the channel you want to view.

4. The screen displays an overview including:

* Channel Number and Source (Input or Track)

* Fader Level

* Pan Position

* EQ Settings (graphical representation or key values)

* Effect Send Levels (EFF1, EFF2)

* AUX Send Levels (AUX1, AUX2)

* Compressor Status (On/Off)

This is a read-only view; settings cannot be changed directly from this screen.

5. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit.

The VF160 has two independent effect processors (EFF1 and EFF2) offering various algorithms:

1. Connect the [ST OUT-L/R] RCA jacks on the VF160 rear panel to the analog Line Input jacks of your external master recorder (e.g., cassette deck, MD recorder, computer audio interface).

2. Set up your mix on the VF160 using channel faders, EQ, pan, and effects as desired.

3. Put the master recorder into Record Ready / Record Pause mode.

4. Play the loudest section of your song on the VF160 and adjust the input level controls on the master recorder so its meters peak appropriately (usually near 0dB without clipping).

5. Also, monitor the VF160’s Master Fader level on the LCD, ensuring it doesn’t exceed 0dB.

6. Locate the VF160 to the beginning of the song.

7. Start recording on the master recorder.

8. Press [PLAY] on the VF160.

9. When the song finishes, stop the master recorder first, then stop the VF160.

This requires a master recorder with a compatible digital input (S/PDIF or ADAT optical).

1. Connect the [DIGITAL/DATA OUT] optical jack on the VF160 to the corresponding digital input (S/PDIF or ADAT optical) on your master recorder.

2. In the VF160’s SETUP menu, set the “Digital Output” type to match your recorder’s input (S/PDIF or ADAT).

3. Set up your mix on the VF160.

4. Prepare the master recorder to accept the digital input signal. Ensure its sample rate is set to 44.1kHz (or auto-detects). Generally, the input level is not adjustable for digital signals.

5. Put the master recorder into Record Ready / Record Pause mode.

6. Monitor the VF160’s Master Fader level on the LCD, ensuring it peaks close to 0dB but does not clip.

7. Locate the VF160 to the beginning of the song.

8. Start recording on the master recorder.

9. Press [PLAY] on the VF160.

10. When the song finishes, stop the master recorder first, then stop the VF160.

This allows recording with EQ and effects applied.

Setup:

1. Connect the sound source to Input H (Jack 8/16).

2. Press [INPUT SEL]. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key 16 until its LED flashes ORANGE and “IN H” appears under channel 16. Ensure other channels (esp. track 1) are set to “TRK” (GREEN).

3. Press [BUSS-SOURCE] (flashes GREEN).

4. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key 16. “SRC” appears under channel 16. You can also select EFF1/EFF2 here if desired.

5. Press [BUSS-REC TRK] (flashes RED).

6. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key 1. “RDY” appears under track 1, and the key flashes RED/GREEN.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] to return to Normal Display.

Level Adjust / EQ / Effects:

8. Press [RECORD]. Track 1 key (ch1) flashes RED (Input Monitor via BUSS).

9. Set faders for channel 1 (monitor), channel 16 (source level), and Master to “0” (or desired levels).

10. Play the source and adjust TRIM H (8/16) for optimal input level (PEAK LED flashes occasionally).

11. If desired, use the Channel Parameter Edit keys ([EQ/COMP-HI] etc.) to apply EQ to channel 16 (the source).

12. If desired, use [CH PARAM EDIT-EFF1/EFF2] to set the send level from channel 16 to the selected effect, and use [EFF EDIT-EFF1/EFF2] to choose and adjust the effect.

13. Optionally adjust the final REC BUSS Master Level: Press [BUSS-REC TRK] again to show the level icon (default 80), and turn the [JOG] dial to adjust (00-99). Press [EXIT/NO].

Recording:

1. Locate to the start point.

2. Press [RECORD] while holding [PLAY]. Track 1 records the signal from channel 16 (Input H) processed through the mixer and REC BUSS.

Stopping & Playback:

1. Press [STOP].

2. Locate and press [PLAY] to listen back via channel fader 1.

This allows submixing multiple inputs down to a stereo pair.

Setup:

1. Connect sources to Inputs A through H.

2. Press [INPUT SEL]. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys 9 through 16 to set them all to “IN” (ORANGE flashing LEDs, showing IN A through IN H).

3. Press [BUSS-SOURCE] (flashes GREEN).

4. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys 9 through 16. “SRC” appears under each (channels A-H are now sources).

5. Press [BUSS-REC TRK] (flashes RED).

6. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys 7 and 8. “RDY” appears under tracks 7 & 8, keys flash RED/GREEN.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] to return to Normal Display.

Level Adjust / Mix / EQ / Pan:

8. Press [RECORD]. Track 7 & 8 keys flash RED.

9. Set faders 7 & 8 (monitor) and Master fader to “0”.

10. Play the sources and adjust TRIM knobs A-H for optimal levels.

11. Adjust faders 9-16 to create the desired mix balance of inputs A-H being sent to the REC BUSS.

12. Use the PAN controls ([PAN/FADER] key) for channels 9-16 to position each input in the stereo field of the REC BUSS (which will be recorded onto tracks 7 & 8).

13. Apply EQ ([EQ/COMP…] keys) to channels 9-16 as needed.

14. Optionally adjust the REC BUSS Master Level (Press [BUSS-REC TRK], turn [JOG], press [EXIT/NO]).

Recording:

1. Locate to the start point.

2. Press [RECORD] while holding [PLAY]. Tracks 7 and 8 record the stereo mix from the REC BUSS.

Stopping & Playback:

1. Press [STOP].

2. Locate and press [PLAY] to listen back via channel faders 7 and 8.

1. During BUSS RECORD setup, when selecting sources using the [BUSS-SOURCE] key, press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the desired effect processor (EFF1 or EFF2) in addition to the channel(s) carrying your input signal (e.g., select ch16 for Input H AND select EFF1).

2. Use the [CH PARAM EDIT-EFF1/EFF2] key to access the Effect Send screen.

3. Select the source channel (e.g., ch16) using its [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key.

4. Turn the [JOG] dial to set the desired send level from the source channel to the effect.

5. Use the [EFF EDIT-EFF1/EFF2] key (whichever you selected as a source) to choose the effect type (e.g., Reverb) and adjust its parameters.

6. Now, when you record using BUSS RECORD, the effected signal will be mixed with the dry signal (depending on send/return levels) and recorded onto the destination track(s).

Adat Mixer Mode puts all 16 tracks into Input Monitor (READY) state simultaneously. This is useful when using the VF160 as an interface with a computer DAW via ADAT optical connections, allowing you to monitor all incoming ADAT channels through the VF160 mixer while recording them in the DAW, or for simultaneous 16-track recording directly on the VF160 via ADAT input.

Activation:

1. Ensure you are in the Normal Display mode.

2. Press the [INPUT SEL] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

3. The mode toggles On/Off with each press. When ON, all track [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys 1-16 will indicate READY status (flashing RED/GREEN or solid RED if recording).

Note:

This mode only functions correctly for DIRECT recording. If attempted during BUSS recording setup, the VF160 will prompt to change the recording mode.

The Digital Input must be set to “adat” in the SETUP menu for this mode to be useful with ADAT equipment.

The manual does not explicitly describe adjusting a Pre/Post setting specifically for the EQ itself. EQ is typically applied directly within the channel path. The Pre/Post settings described apply to the Effect Sends and AUX Sends, determining whether those sends are tapped before or after the channel fader and EQ stages.

1. Adjust all channel faders, pan positions, EQ settings, effect sends, aux sends, and effect processor settings to your desired state.

2. Press the [SCENE-STORE/MAP] key.

3. The display shows the Scene Store screen, prompting for a memory location (e.g., “Scene Store 00”).

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the Scene memory number (00-99) where you want to store the settings. If a Scene already exists at that number, its name might be displayed.

5. Press the [ENTER/YES] key to confirm. The current mixer state is now stored in that Scene memory location.

1. Press the [SCENE-RECALL/DIRECT RCL] key.

2. The display shows the Scene Recall screen, prompting for a memory location.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select the number of the Scene memory (00-99) you want to recall.

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key.

5. The mixer settings stored in that Scene are instantly loaded. Note that the physical faders will not move.

6. If the physical fader positions do not match the recalled levels, the [FADER ADJUST/LEVEL ADJUST] key will flash, indicating a mismatch.

When a Scene is recalled, the internal mixer levels change, but the physical faders remain where they were. The flashing [FADER ADJUST/LEVEL ADJUST] key indicates this mismatch.

Level Adjust Mode: Press [FADER ADJUST/LEVEL ADJUST] while holding [SHIFT]. The VF160 immediately forces all channel volumes to match the recalled Scene levels, regardless of the physical fader positions. The flashing stops.

Fader Adjust Mode: Press [FADER ADJUST/LEVEL ADJUST] alone. The display enters Fader Adjust mode. For each mismatched channel, you must manually move its physical fader until it passes through the internally stored level. The LCD typically indicates when the physical fader matches the recalled level, allowing you to smoothly transition control back to the physical fader without sudden volume jumps.

Direct Recall allows you to select and recall a scene in one step, bypassing the initial prompt.

1. Press the [SCENE-RECALL/DIRECT RCL] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired Scene number (00-99).

3. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The selected Scene is recalled immediately.

1. Simultaneously press both the [SCENE-STORE/MAP] key and the [SCENE-RECALL/DIRECT RCL] key.

2. The display shows the Scene Clear screen, prompting for a location.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select the Scene number (00-99) you want to erase.

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key to confirm. The selected Scene memory is cleared.

This links specific Scene memories to previously created Event Memory points, allowing automatic mixer changes during playback.

1. Ensure you have created Event Memory points at the desired time locations.

2. Ensure you have stored the desired mixer settings into Scene Memories.

3. Press the [SCENE-STORE/MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key to enter the Event Map screen.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the Event Memory number you want to assign a Scene to.

5. Press the [HOLD/>] key to move the cursor to the Scene number field (currently showing “Non” or a previously assigned number).

6. Use the [JOG] dial to select the Scene number (00-99) you want to recall at this Event Memory time.

7. Press the [ENTER/YES] key to store the assignment.

8. Repeat steps 4-7 for other Event Memory points.

9. Press [EXIT/NO] when finished.

1. Press the [SCENE-STORE/MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key to enter the Event Map screen.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the Event Memory number you want to delete.

3. Press the [EDIT] key.

4. The display will likely ask for confirmation (e.g., “Delete EVT ** Sure?”).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to delete the Event Memory point. This removes it from the list and any Scene assignment associated with it.

Press the [A RTN/A PLAY/SCENE SEQ] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

Each press toggles the Scene Sequence mode between ON and OFF.

When ON, the Scene number indicator (“S**”) in the Normal Display will be reversed (white text on black background). When OFF, it appears as normal text.

1. Create your Event Memory points at the desired times.

2. Store your mixer settings into Scene Memories.

3. Create the Scene Event Map, assigning Scenes to Event Memory points.

4. Turn Scene Sequence Mode ON (Press [SHIFT] + [A RTN/A PLAY/SCENE SEQ] until “S**” is reversed in the Normal Display).

5. Locate to the beginning of the section you want to play back with automated Scene changes.

6. Press the [PLAY] key.

7. As the recorder reaches each Event Memory point defined in the map, the assigned Scene will be automatically recalled, changing the mixer settings accordingly.

While the recorder is playing, press and hold the [F FWD/NEXT] key or the [REWIND/PREV] key.

The VF160 will fast forward or rewind at 3x normal speed while playing back the audio at the faster speed (but normal pitch). This allows you to listen while quickly navigating to find a specific section.

Release the key to resume normal playback speed.

Shuttle provides variable speed playback control, forward or reverse, without changing pitch significantly.

1. Hold down the [SHIFT] key.

2. Turn the [JOG/SHUTTLE] dial.

3. Turning the dial slightly right from the center initiates slow forward playback. Turning it further right increases the forward playback speed (up to 64x).

4. Turning the dial slightly left from the center initiates slow reverse playback. Turning it further left increases the reverse playback speed (up to 64x).

5. Releasing the [SHIFT] key or returning the dial to the center position usually stops shuttle mode (depending on other settings).

Scrubbing allows you to manually move through the audio frame by frame, like rocking tape reels, to find precise edit points.

1. Press the [SCRUB] key to activate scrub mode.

2. Optionally, press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key of the channel/track you want to monitor while scrubbing (though often you monitor the main mix).

3. Turn the [JOG/SHUTTLE] dial slowly.

4. Turning the dial clockwise moves the audio forward; counterclockwise moves it backward.

5. The audio plays back corresponding to the dial movement without pitch change.

6. Press [SCRUB] again or [STOP] to exit scrub mode.

Press the [VARI PITCH/P.EDIT] key.

Each press toggles the Variable Pitch function ON or OFF.

The key lights up when Variable Pitch is ON. The “VARI” icon may also appear on the LCD REMAIN display when active.

1. Press the [VARI PITCH/P.EDIT] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key to enter Pitch Edit mode.

2. The LCD shows the current pitch setting (e.g., “+0.0%”).

3. Turn the [JOG] dial to adjust the percentage. The range is -6.0% to +6.0% in 0.1% increments.

4. Press [ENTER/YES] or [EXIT/NO] to confirm and exit Pitch Edit mode.

5. Ensure Variable Pitch Control is turned ON (press [VARI PITCH/P.EDIT] key so it lights up) for the setting to take effect during playback or recording.

Auto Play automatically starts playback when you locate to a point.

1. Press the [A RTN/A PLAY/SCENE SEQ] key until “Auto Play” is indicated on the LCD.

2. Now, whenever you use a locate function (e.g., locate to ABS 0, locate to a Mark point), playback will begin immediately upon reaching the destination.

3. To disable, press [A RTN/A PLAY/SCENE SEQ] again to cycle through other modes or to OFF.

These points define the section that will be looped or returned to.

1. Locate to the desired Start point for the loop/return.

2. Press [HOLD/>], then [STORE], then the [AUTO RTN-START/MARK1] key.

3. Locate to the desired End point for the loop/return.

4. Press [HOLD/>], then [STORE], then the [AUTO RTN-END/MARK4] key.

The region between these two points is now defined for Auto Return and Auto Repeat functions.

Auto Return automatically rewinds to the programmed Start point when playback reaches the programmed End point.

1. Set the Start and End points using the [AUTO RTN-START/MARK1] and [AUTO RTN-END/MARK4] keys as described above.

2. Press the [A RTN/A PLAY/SCENE SEQ] key until “Auto Return” is indicated on the LCD.

3. Press [PLAY]. Playback begins.

4. When the End point is reached, the recorder automatically stops, locates back to the Start point, and remains stopped.

5. Press [PLAY] again to play the section once more.

Auto Repeat continuously loops playback between the programmed Start and End points.

1. Set the Start and End points using the [AUTO RTN-START/MARK1] and [AUTO RTN-END/MARK4] keys.

2. Press the [A RTN/A PLAY/SCENE SEQ] key until “Auto Repeat” is indicated on the LCD.

3. Press [PLAY]. Playback begins.

4. When the End point is reached, the recorder automatically locates back to the Start point and immediately starts playing again, repeating the section indefinitely.

5. Press [STOP] to exit the loop.

1. Press the [PGM SEL] key.

2. The Program Select screen appears.

3. Turn the [JOG] dial to select an empty program number (usually indicated by a default title like “#000X” or similar, or explicitly stated as empty).

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key.

5. The display will likely confirm creation or ask “Create PGM Sure?”. Press [ENTER/YES] again if needed.

6. The new, empty program becomes the active program, ready for recording.

1. Press the [PGM SEL] key.

2. The Program Select screen appears, showing the current program number and title.

3. Turn the [JOG] dial to scroll through the available program numbers (01-99).

4. When the desired program number is displayed, press the [ENTER/YES] key.

5. That program becomes the active program.

Warning: Erasing a program permanently deletes all its recorded audio and settings.

1. Press the [SETUP] key to enter SETUP mode.

2. Turn the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Delete” menu option (it should show the currently loaded Program number).

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. The display asks for confirmation, “Delete PGM ** Sure?”.

5. Press [ENTER/YES] again to confirm.

6. The program is erased. A new, empty program with the same number is often created automatically.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

1. Ensure the program you want to name is currently selected.

2. Press the [SETUP] key.

3. Turn the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Title Edit PGM**” menu option.

4. Press [ENTER/YES].

5. The Title Edit screen appears with the current title and a flashing cursor.

6. Use the [JOG] dial to select characters (letters, numbers, symbols).

7. Use the [HOLD/>] key (and [SHIFT]+[HOLD/>]) to move the cursor left and right.

8. You can typically insert or delete characters using dedicated functions shown on screen or via specific key combinations (consult LCD prompts).

9. When the title is entered as desired, press [ENTER/YES] to store it.

10. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

This involves defining the section (Clip), copying or moving it to a temporary clipboard, and then pasting it to a new location.

1. Define the Clip (Source Section):

Locate the start point of the section you want to copy/move.

Press [HOLD/>], then [STORE], then [CLIPBOARD-IN/MARK5].

Locate the end point of the section.

Press [HOLD/>], then [STORE], then [CLIPBOARD-OUT/MARK7].

2. Execute Copy or Move:

Press the [EDIT] key repeatedly until “Copy Clip?” or “Move Clip?” is displayed.

Press [ENTER/YES].

The display prompts for the source track(s). Use the [JOG] dial to select the track number containing the clip.

Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm. The audio data between CLIP IN and CLIP OUT points on the selected track is copied (or moved) to the clipboard. “Completed!” appears.

3. Paste the Data:

Locate the time point where you want the copied/moved section to begin.

Press [HOLD/>], then [STORE]. You can optionally store this as the [CLIPBOARD-ALIGN SEL/MARK6] point if needed for precise alignment later, but it’s not strictly necessary for pasting.

Press the [EDIT] key repeatedly until “Copy Paste?” or “Move Paste?” is displayed.

Press [ENTER/YES].

The display prompts for the destination track(s). Use the [JOG] dial to select the track number where you want to paste the data.

Press [ENTER/YES] to execute the paste. The clipboard data is inserted onto the destination track starting at the located time. “Completed!” appears.

Immediately after performing a Paste (Copy Paste or Move Paste):

To Undo: Press the [UNDO/REDO] key once. The pasted audio is removed, restoring the track to its state before the paste.

To Redo: If you undid the paste, press the [UNDO/REDO] key again. The audio is pasted back into place.

1. Define the Erase Region:

Locate the start point of the section to erase.

Press [HOLD/>], then [STORE], then [AUTO PUNCH-IN/MARK2] (Often uses Punch points for erase).

Locate the end point of the section to erase.

Press [HOLD/>], then [STORE], then [AUTO PUNCH-OUT/MARK3].

2. Execute Erase:

Press the [EDIT] key repeatedly until “Erase?” is displayed.

Press [ENTER/YES].

The display prompts for the track(s) to erase from. Use the [JOG] dial to select the track number.

Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm. The audio data between the defined points on the selected track is erased. “Completed!” appears.

Immediately after performing an Erase:

To Undo: Press the [UNDO/REDO] key once. The erased audio is restored.

To Redo: If you undid the erase, press the [UNDO/REDO] key again. The audio section is erased once more.

In DIRECT RECORD mode, the armed track automatically enters Input Monitor mode when you press the [RECORD] key (key flashes RED), allowing you to hear the input signal through the channel fader before you start the actual recording ([RECORD] + [PLAY]).

Additionally, you can use the “Adat Mixer Mode” ([SHIFT] + [INPUT SEL]) to put ALL tracks into Input Monitor (READY) state simultaneously, which can be useful for checking multiple inputs routed directly to tracks before recording.

The manual describes the Internal Mixdown mode starting on page 79. Activating it typically involves pressing a dedicated key or selecting it from a menu, likely the [INT MIXDOWN] key mentioned in the REC ASSIGN area description. Please refer to page 80 of the PDF for the specific steps to activate this mode.

1. Press the [INT MIXDOWN] key. (This key is located near the REC ASSIGN keys).

2. The display will change to indicate Internal Mixdown mode is active, likely showing options for assigning tracks to the internal mixdown busses (usually tracks 15 & 16 by default).

1. Activate Internal Mixdown mode.

2. Set up your mix using channel faders 1-14 (or as configured), EQ, pan, and effects.

3. Ensure the destination tracks (e.g., 15 & 16) are armed (RDY).

4. Locate to the beginning of the song.

5. Press only the [PLAY] key.

6. Listen to the mix through the Master output/headphones. Adjust levels, EQ, pan, effects as needed during playback. This allows you to fine-tune the mix without actually recording it yet.

7. Press [STOP] when finished rehearsing.

1. Activate Internal Mixdown mode and set up/rehearse your mix as described above.

2. Ensure the destination tracks (e.g., 15 & 16) are armed (RDY).

3. Locate to the beginning of the song.

4. Press the [RECORD] key while holding down the [PLAY] key.

5. The mixdown recording begins. The mixed audio from tracks 1-14 (or sources assigned to the mixdown buss) is recorded onto the destination tracks (15 & 16).

6. Let the song play through to the end.

7. Press the [STOP] key.

8. You can now play back tracks 15 & 16 to hear the completed stereo mixdown.

The VF160 doesn’t have a specific “insert silence” command like some DAWs. However, you can achieve this by:

1. Starting Recording Later: Simply locate the recorder to the desired start time (e.g., ABS 00m 05s 00f) before starting the internal or external mixdown recording. The time before that point will remain blank (silent) on the master recording.

2. Editing After Mixdown (if needed): If you mix down starting at ABS 0 and later decide you need silence, you could potentially use the editing functions (Move Clip) to shift the entire mixed-down audio on the destination tracks (e.g., trk 15/16) forward in time, leaving silence at the beginning.

This is a common scenario for overdubbing or adding live elements to existing tracks.

1. Set up BUSS RECORD mode.

2. In the [INPUT SEL] screen, set the channels corresponding to your live inputs to “IN” (Orange LED) and the channels corresponding to the playback tracks you want to hear/mix to “TRK” (Green LED).

3. In the [BUSS-SOURCE] screen, select BOTH the input channels (“IN”) AND the playback channels (“TRK”) that you want to send to the REC BUSS.

4. In the [BUSS-REC TRK] screen, arm the destination track(s) for the combined mix.

5. Adjust TRIM levels for the inputs.

6. Use the channel faders for both the input channels and the playback channels to create the desired mix balance being sent to the REC BUSS.

7. Apply PAN, EQ, Effects to the source channels as needed.

8. Locate and press [RECORD] + [PLAY] to record the combined signal onto the destination track(s).

Ping-pong recording combines multiple recorded tracks onto one or two new tracks to free up the original tracks.

1. Set up BUSS RECORD mode.

2. In the [INPUT SEL] screen, ensure all channels corresponding to the tracks you want to bounce are set to “TRK”.

3. In the [BUSS-SOURCE] screen, select all the channels (“TRK”) corresponding to the tracks you want to bounce together.

4. In the [BUSS-REC TRK] screen, arm the empty destination track(s) (e.g., one mono track or a stereo pair) where the bounced mix will be recorded.

5. Adjust the faders and PAN controls for the source track channels to create the desired submix balance.

6. Apply EQ or effects to the source channels if desired.

7. Locate to the beginning of the section to be bounced.

8. Press [RECORD] + [PLAY]. The signals from the selected source tracks are mixed via the REC BUSS and recorded onto the destination track(s).

9. Press [STOP] when finished. The original tracks can now potentially be erased or reused.

The metronome provides a click track for recording in time.

Setup:

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to find the Metronome settings menus (e.g., “Click”, “Click Level”, “Pre Count”, “Rec Count”, “Play Count”).

3. Adjust settings as needed:

* Click: Turn On/Off.

* Click Level: Adjust volume.

* Pre Count: Set number of count-in bars before recording starts.

* Rec Count: Turn click On/Off during recording.

* Play Count: Turn click On/Off during playback.

4. Ensure the Tempo and Time Signature are set correctly in SETUP mode for the desired click pattern.

Usage:

1. With the Click turned ON in SETUP, the metronome will sound during playback and/or recording according to the Rec Count/Play Count settings.

2. If Pre Count is enabled, pressing [RECORD]+[PLAY] will first play the count-in bars before recording begins.

1. Connect the digital output (S/PDIF or ADAT optical) of the external device to the [DIGITAL/DATA IN] optical jack on the VF160.

2. Press [SETUP].

3. Use the [JOG] dial to find the “Digital Input” setting.

4. Select the format matching your source device (S/PDIF or ADAT). Press [ENTER/YES].

5. Exit SETUP mode.

6. Determine the recording mode:

* DIRECT RECORD: To record multiple ADAT channels directly to tracks (up to 16), use Adat Mixer Mode ([SHIFT]+[INPUT SEL]) to arm all tracks, then press [RECORD]+[PLAY].

* BUSS RECORD: To record a stereo S/PDIF signal or specific ADAT channels through the mixer (allowing EQ/effects), set up BUSS record mode. You may need to assign the digital inputs to specific channels (e.g., S/PDIF L/R often appear as sources assignable like inputs A/B or similar in the BUSS SOURCE menu). Arm the desired destination track(s) and record.

7. Start playback on the external digital device.

8. Start recording on the VF160.

9. Stop both devices when finished.

Note: The VF160 operates at 44.1kHz. Ensure the external device is also set to output 44.1kHz.

1. Connect two ADAT optical cables from the outputs of your ADAT source (like an interface or another ADAT machine) to the [DIGITAL/DATA IN] jacks on the VF160. (Note: The VF160 only has ONE optical input jack shown. Simultaneous 16-track ADAT recording might require specific configurations or assumptions not fully detailed in the provided text. Typically, one ADAT optical connection carries 8 channels. Confirm VF160 capabilities for 16ch ADAT input). Assuming it supports 16ch via a single ADAT input setting:

2. Press [SETUP].

3. Set “Digital Input” to “ADAT”. Press [ENTER/YES]. Exit SETUP.

4. Press [SHIFT] + [INPUT SEL] to activate Adat Mixer Mode. All tracks 1-16 should now show READY status.

5. Press [RECORD] + [PLAY] on the VF160.

6. Start playback/output from your ADAT source device.

7. The 16 incoming ADAT channels will be recorded directly onto tracks 1-16.

8. Press [STOP] on the VF160 when finished.

The VF160 can act as both a Master and a Slave for MIDI synchronization.

As Master:

Outputs MIDI Clock with Song Position Pointer (SPP) or MIDI Time Code (MTC) via the [MIDI OUT] jack.

Can send MIDI Machine Control (MMC) commands (Play, Stop, Record, Locate) via [MIDI OUT].

Settings for output type (Clock/MTC), MTC Frame Rate, and MTC Offset are configured in SETUP mode.

As Slave:

Can synchronize its transport (Play, Stop, Locate) to incoming MTC via the [MIDI IN] jack.

Slave Mode (MTC) and Slave Type (MTC or potentially MIDI Clock – needs clarification from SETUP menu) are configured in SETUP mode.

1. Connect the VF160’s [MIDI OUT] jack to the MIDI IN jack of the external MIDI device (sequencer, drum machine).

2. Set the external device to receive MIDI Sync (Clock+SPP or MTC) from an external source (refer to the device’s manual).

3. On the VF160, press [SETUP].

4. Go to the “Midi Sync Out” setting.

5. Select the desired sync type: “CLK” (MIDI Clock+SPP) or “MTC”. Press [ENTER/YES].

6. If using MTC, go to the “MTC Frame Rate” setting and select the rate matching your external device (24, 25, 29.97 Drop, 30). Press [ENTER/YES].

7. Exit SETUP mode.

8. Now, when you press [PLAY] on the VF160, it should send the selected sync signal, and the external device should start playing in sync. Transport controls (Stop, Rewind, F Fwd) on the VF160 will also control the synced device (especially with SPP or if the device responds to MMC).

This process saves the stereo mixdown digitally.

1. Perform your mix on the VF160.

2. Connect the VF160’s [DIGITAL/DATA OUT] optical jack to the digital input (S/PDIF or ADAT optical) of your destination recorder (e.g., DAT machine, computer interface).

3. On the VF160, press [SETUP].

4. Go to the “Digital Output” setting and select the format matching your recorder’s input (S/PDIF or ADAT). Press [ENTER/YES]. Exit SETUP.

5. Prepare the destination recorder to receive the digital signal at 44.1kHz and put it in Record Ready mode.

6. Check levels on the VF160 Master fader meter.

7. Locate the VF160 to the start.

8. Start recording on the destination device.

9. Press [PLAY] on the VF160.

10. Stop both devices when finished.

This loads a digital stereo recording onto two tracks of the VF160.

1. Connect the digital output (S/PDIF or ADAT optical) of your source device to the VF160’s [DIGITAL/DATA IN] optical jack.

2. On the VF160, press [SETUP].

3. Go to the “Digital Input” setting and select the format matching your source (S/PDIF or ADAT). Press [ENTER/YES]. Exit SETUP.

4. Select the Program you want to record into.

5. Set up BUSS RECORD mode. Assign the digital input (e.g., S/PDIF L/R or specific ADAT channels appearing as sources) to the REC BUSS via the [BUSS-SOURCE] screen.

6. Arm the destination stereo track pair (e.g., tracks 1 & 2) using the [BUSS-REC TRK] screen.

7. Put the VF160 into Record Ready mode ([RECORD] key flashing RED).

8. Start playback on the source device.

9. Start recording on the VF160 ([RECORD] + [PLAY]).

10. Stop both devices when finished.

This prepares an external SCSI disk (like MO or Zip) connected to the SCSI port for saving VF160 backup data.

Warning: Formatting erases all existing data on the SCSI disk.

1. Connect the external SCSI drive to the VF160’s SCSI port and power it on before turning on the VF160.

2. Turn on the VF160.

3. Press [SETUP].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight “Disk Format”.

5. Press [ENTER/YES].

6. The Drive Select screen appears. Use the [JOG] dial or [FFWD]/[REWIND] keys to highlight “SCSI (Backup)”.

7. Press [ENTER/YES].

8. The format confirmation screen appears, “Format SCSI Sure?”.

9. Press [ENTER/YES] while holding down the [RECORD] key to confirm.

10. Formatting proceeds. “Completed!” appears when finished.

11. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit SETUP.

1. Connect and power on the formatted external SCSI drive before turning on the VF160.

2. Load the Program you want to back up on the VF160.

3. Press [SETUP].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to navigate to the SCSI Save/Load menu area (specific menu name might vary, look for “SCSI Save” or similar).

5. Select the “Save Program” or “Backup” option.

6. Confirm the source Program number.

7. The system may prompt for confirmation, “Save PGM ** to SCSI Sure?”.

8. Press [ENTER/YES] (possibly with [RECORD]) to start the backup process.

9. Wait for the “Completed!” message.

10. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit SETUP.

1. Connect and power on the external SCSI drive containing the backup before turning on the VF160.

2. Turn on the VF160.

3. Press [SETUP].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to navigate to the SCSI Save/Load menu area.

5. Select the “Load Program” or “Restore” option.

6. The system may display a list of backups found on the SCSI drive. Select the desired Program backup using the [JOG] dial.

7. Select the destination Program number on the internal hard drive where you want to load the backup (this will overwrite the existing program at that location).

8. Confirm the operation, “Load PGM ** from SCSI Sure?”.

9. Press [ENTER/YES] (possibly with [RECORD]) to start loading.

10. Wait for “Completed!”.

11. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit SETUP. The loaded program is now active.

1. Connect and power on the formatted external SCSI drive before turning on the VF160.

2. Load the Program containing the tracks you want to export.

3. Press [SETUP].

4. Navigate to the SCSI Save/Load or File Management menu.

5. Look for an option like “Save Track as WAV” or “Export WAV”.

6. Select the track number(s) you want to export.

7. Confirm the operation. The selected track audio will be saved as individual WAV files on the SCSI drive.

8. Wait for completion and exit SETUP.

1. Connect and power on the external SCSI drive containing the WAV files before turning on the VF160. WAV files must be 16-bit, 44.1kHz Mono format.

2. Select the destination Program on the VF160.

3. Press [SETUP].

4. Navigate to the SCSI Save/Load or File Management menu.

5. Look for an option like “Load Track from WAV” or “Import WAV”.

6. The system may display a list of WAV files on the SCSI drive. Select the WAV file to import.

7. Select the destination track number on the VF160.

8. Confirm the operation. The WAV file audio will be loaded onto the selected track.

9. Wait for completion and exit SETUP.

This requires the optional CD-1A internal drive or a compatible external SCSI CD-RW drive.

1. If using an external drive, connect and power it on before the VF160.

2. Insert a blank or rewritable CD-RW disc.

3. Load the Program you want to back up.

4. Press [SETUP].

5. Navigate to the CD-RW menu area.

6. Select the “Backup Program” or “Save Program” option.

7. Confirm the source Program number.

8. Press [ENTER/YES] to start the backup. The data is written to the CD-RW.

9. Wait for completion (“Completed!”).

10. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit SETUP.

1. Insert the CD-RW backup disc into the internal or external drive.

2. Press [SETUP].

3. Navigate to the CD-RW menu area.

4. Select the “Restore Program” or “Load Program” option.

5. Select the backup data set from the CD-RW.

6. Select the destination Program number on the internal hard drive (will be overwritten).

7. Press [ENTER/YES] to start loading.

8. Wait for completion.

9. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit SETUP.

This creates a standard audio CD playable on regular CD players.

1. Perform your mixdown to a stereo track pair on the VF160 (e.g., using Internal Mixdown to tracks 15 & 16).

2. Insert a blank CD-R (recommended) or CD-RW disc into the drive.

3. Press [SETUP].

4. Navigate to the CD-RW menu area.

5. Select the “Make Audio CD” or “Write Audio CD” option.

6. Select the Program containing the stereo mixdown.

7. Specify the source tracks for the stereo mixdown (e.g., 15 & 16).

8. You may have options to add track markers or finalize the disc.

9. Confirm the operation to start writing the audio CD.

10. Wait for the process to complete. Ensure the disc is finalized if you want it to play on standard players.

11. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit SETUP.

1. Insert the standard audio CD into the internal or external CD drive.

2. Select the destination Program on the VF160.

3. Press [SETUP].

4. Navigate to the CD-RW menu area.

5. Select the “Load from Audio CD” or “Import Audio CD Track” option.

6. Select the track number from the audio CD that you want to import.

7. Select the destination track number on the VF160.

8. Confirm the operation. The audio CD track is digitally extracted and loaded onto the selected VF160 track.

9. Repeat for other tracks if needed.

10. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit SETUP.

Press the [SETUP] key located in the upper right section of the recorder control panel.

The LCD will display the first page of the SETUP menu.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Signature Set” menu.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. The Time Signature setting screen appears.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to set the numerator (beats per bar).

6. Press [HOLD/>] to move the cursor to the denominator.

7. Use the [JOG] dial to set the denominator (beat unit, e.g., 4 for quarter notes).

8. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

9. Press [EXIT/NO] to return to the main SETUP menu.

Note: Time Signature can often be set at specific bar locations when creating a tempo map.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Tempo Set” menu.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. The Tempo setting screen appears.

5. To set a single tempo for the whole program: Ensure the location is set to the beginning (or desired global start) and use the [JOG] dial to set the desired BPM (Beats Per Minute).

6. To create a tempo map (tempo changes):

* Navigate to the Bar/Beat where you want the tempo change to occur.

* Use the [JOG] dial to set the new tempo (BPM).

* Press [ENTER/YES] or a dedicated “Insert” function key if available on the screen to store the tempo change at that location.

* Repeat for other tempo change points.

7. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the tempo setting(s).

8. Press [EXIT/NO] to return to the main SETUP menu.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to find and select the Metronome-related menu items:

* Click: Highlight and press [ENTER/YES]. Use [JOG] to select On or Off. Press [ENTER/YES].

* Click Level: Highlight and press [ENTER/YES]. Use [JOG] to set the volume level (0-99). Press [ENTER/YES].

* Pre Count: Highlight and press [ENTER/YES]. Use [JOG] to set the number of count-in bars (e.g., 1, 2) or Off. Press [ENTER/YES].

* Rec Count: Highlight and press [ENTER/YES]. Use [JOG] to select On (click sounds during record) or Off. Press [ENTER/YES].

* Play Count: Highlight and press [ENTER/YES]. Use [JOG] to select On (click sounds during playback) or Off. Press [ENTER/YES].

* You may also find options for click sound type or accentuation.

3. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

Preroll makes the recorder locate to a point slightly before the target location when using locate functions, giving a brief lead-in before playback starts.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Preroll” setting menu.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to set the desired preroll duration in seconds (range is typically 0-10 seconds).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Midi Sync Out” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select either “CLK” (MIDI Clock + SPP) or “MTC” (MIDI Time Code).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

This must match the frame rate expected by the receiving device when using MTC sync.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Ensure “Midi Sync Out” is set to “MTC”.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “MTC Frame Rate” setting.

4. Press [ENTER/YES].

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired frame rate (e.g., 24, 25, 29.97DF, 30).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

The MTC Offset determines the MTC time that corresponds to the VF160’s Absolute Time (ABS) 00:00:00:00.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “MTC Offset Val” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial and the [HOLD/>] key to navigate the time fields (H:M:S:F) and set the desired offset time.

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the value.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

This likely relates to how the offset is applied or calculated, though details aren’t fully provided.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “MTC Offset Mode” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired mode (options might include specific standards or calculation methods).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

This configures the VF160 to follow sync signals from an external master device.

1. Connect the MIDI Out of the master device to the [MIDI IN] of the VF160.

2. Press [SETUP] on the VF160.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Slave Mode” setting.

4. Press [ENTER/YES].

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” (to enable slave mode) or “Off” (VF160 runs on internal clock).

6. Press [ENTER/YES].

7. If Slave Mode is On, you also need to set the “Slave Type”.

8. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

9. When Slave Mode is On, pressing [PLAY] on the external master device should cause the VF160 to enter play mode in sync.

This specifies the type of sync signal the VF160 should listen for when Slave Mode is On.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Ensure “Slave Mode” is set to “On”.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Slave Type” setting.

4. Press [ENTER/YES].

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select the type of sync signal being sent by your master device (usually “MTC”, possibly “VARI” or “MIDI” representing MIDI Clock).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

Record Protect prevents accidental recording or erasure of a Program.

1. Load the Program you want to protect or unprotect.

2. Press [SETUP].

3. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Rec Protect” setting.

4. Press [ENTER/YES].

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” (to protect the program) or “Off” (to allow recording/erasure).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

The “REC” icon on the REMAIN display disappears when Record Protect is ON.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Digital Input” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the format matching the device connected to the [DIGITAL/DATA IN] jack (“SPDIF” or “ADAT”).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Digital Output” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the format required by the device connected to the [DIGITAL/DATA OUT] jack (“SPDIF” or “ADAT”).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

This likely affects the precision of the clock ticks displayed in the BAR/BEAT/CLK time base.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “BAR/BEAT Resol” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired resolution (e.g., options might relate to ticks per beat or standard MIDI clock resolution).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

This ID is used for addressing the VF160 via MMC or potentially Sysex commands.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “MIDI Device No” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired MIDI device ID number (typically 0-127).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

This shows how many individual audio or silence events exist on each track, useful for monitoring the 512 event limit per track.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Track Events” or similar menu item.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. The display shows a list or grid indicating the number of events currently used by each track (1-16) in the active program.

5. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Drive Format Info” or similar setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. The display shows information about the currently selected drive (IDE or SCSI), such as its format type (Standard, Quick), size, and possibly other details.

5. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Drive Setting” menu.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Options within this menu might include selecting the active drive (IDE/SCSI), checking drive status, or potentially performing drive-related maintenance functions (details not fully specified).

5. Use [JOG] to navigate options and [ENTER/YES] to select or execute.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit.

Fader Fix mode likely determines how the physical faders interact with the internal levels after a Scene recall or switching between Input/Track control on faders 9-16.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Fader Fix mode” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired mode (e.g., options might be “Jump” where the level instantly changes when the fader is moved, or “Match” where the fader needs to pass through the internal level before taking control).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit.

Fader Recall mode likely governs the behavior when recalling Scenes, related to how mismatches between physical faders and recalled levels are handled.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Fader Recall mode” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired mode (e.g., options might enable/disable the Fader Adjust prompt or select between Level Adjust/Fader Adjust behavior as default).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to exit.

Pairing allows you to control two adjacent channel faders (e.g., 1&2, 3&4,… 15&16) using only the odd-numbered fader of the pair.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Pairfader Setting” menu.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. The display shows the pairing status for each potential pair (1&2, 3&4, etc.).

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select the pair you want to link or unlink.

6. Press [ENTER/YES] (or perhaps another designated key shown on screen) to toggle the pairing status (Link/Unlink or On/Off) for the selected pair.

7. Repeat for other pairs as needed.

8. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

Phantom power (+48V) is required for most condenser microphones connected to the XLR inputs G and H.

Warning: Only turn phantom power ON when condenser mics are connected to XLR inputs G and/or H. Do not connect or disconnect mics while phantom power is ON. Phantom power can damage some ribbon microphones or unbalanced equipment if incorrectly connected.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “PhantomPower” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” or “Off”.

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

The [PHANTOM] LED on the top panel lights up when phantom power is ON.

This setting determines whether the compressor assigned to channels 9-16 processes the Input signal (A-H) or the Track playback signal (9-16) for those channels.

1. Press [SETUP].

2. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the “Comp.Channel” setting.

3. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select either “INPUT” (compressor affects inputs A-H when routed through channels 9-16) or “TRACK” (compressor affects playback of tracks 9-16).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to store the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] to leave SETUP mode.

Note: Compressors for channels 1-8 likely always affect the track playback signal.

Is the Hard Disk Formatted?

Is the correct input selected for the channel?

Is the TRIM control set appropriately (PEAK LED flashing occasionally)?

Is the correct Recording Mode selected (DIRECT or BUSS)?

Are the correct Source channels selected (for BUSS mode)?

Are the correct Destination tracks armed (RDY)?

Is Record Protect OFF for the current Program?

Is there sufficient remaining time/space on the Hard Disk (Check REMAIN display)?

Are the correct faders (channel and master) turned up for monitoring?

Are monitor outputs (Phones/Mon Out) connected and levels turned up?

Are you selecting the correct Edit function (Copy, Move, Erase, etc.)?

Are the necessary time points (CLIP IN/OUT, PUNCH IN/OUT) defined correctly?

Is the PUNCH IN point earlier than the PUNCH OUT point?

Is the CLIP IN point earlier than the CLIP OUT point?

Are you selecting the correct Source track(s) for the operation?

Are you selecting the correct Destination track(s) (for Paste)?

Is Record Protect OFF for the Program (some edits might be restricted)?

Are you trying to edit a virtual track (17-24)? These cannot be edited directly; exchange them to tracks 1-16 first.

Installation typically involves:

1. Turning OFF the VF160 and unplugging the power.

2. Removing the blank panel from the front accessory bay.

3. Sliding the CD-1A drive unit into the bay.

4. Connecting the necessary internal data and power cables (these should be present inside the VF160, intended for the drive).

5. Securing the drive unit with screws (usually provided with the CD-1A).

Refer to the specific instructions included with the CD-1A option kit for detailed steps and safety precautions.

Assuming the optional CD-1A drive is installed:

Press the Eject button located on the front panel of the CD-1A drive unit itself. The tray will slide open.

To close, gently push the front of the tray until it slides back into the drive.

1. Open the CD tray by pressing the Eject button on the drive.

2. To place a disc: Hold the disc by its edges (label side up) and gently place it onto the circular depression in the tray, ensuring it sits flat.

3. To remove a disc: Hold the disc by its edges and lift it straight up off the tray.

4. Gently push the tray closed.

Refer to the MIDI Implementation Chart on page 147 of the PDF for a detailed table showing which MIDI messages (Note On/Off, Control Change, Program Change, System Exclusive, System Common, System Realtime) are transmitted (Tx) or recognized (Rx) and any relevant remarks.

The VF160 supports common MMC transport commands. Refer to the MMC Command List on page 148 of the PDF for the specific commands transmitted and recognized (e.g., Play, Stop, Record Strobe, Rewind, Fast Forward, Locate).

Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior panels and controls. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or liquids. Ensure the unit is powered off and unplugged before cleaning.

Ventilation: Keep ventilation openings clear of dust and obstructions.

Hard Disk: Periodically back up important data. Consider reformatting (Standard) occasionally if experiencing performance issues, but only after backing up.

Connections: Ensure all cable connections are secure.

Refer to the Specifications section on page 149 of the PDF for detailed technical data, including:

Recording format

Sampling frequency

Quantization

Number of tracks

Frequency response

Dynamic range

THD

Input/Output levels and impedances

Dimensions

Weight

Power requirements

1. Press the [HI-G/F/Q] (or [MID-G/F/Q] or [LO-G]) key. The first time, “Select CH!” will flash along with all CH STATUS/CH SEL indicators. Subsequently, the previously selected channel appears.

2. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the desired channel. The current settings appear, with the Gain (G) value flashing.

3. Use the [HI-G/F/H] (or [MID-G/F/Q] or [LO-G]) or [HOLD/>] key to cycle through the parameters (G -> F -> Q -> ON -> G…). For LO EQ, it cycles between G and ON.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired value for the flashing parameter. The EQ curve is shown graphically.

5. After completing EQ editing, press the [EXIT/NO] key to return to the Normal display.

Channels 1 through 16 and the master channel can be equalized. However, channels 13-14 or 15-16 cannot be equalized if they are set as compressor channels in the Setup mode.

G (gain): -18 dB to FLAT to +18 dB (default: FLAT)

F (frequency): 500 Hz to 20.2 kHz (default: 4.00 kHz)

Q: LPF, H-S, 0.1 to 20 (default: H-S)

ON/OFF: ON or OFF (default: ON)

*LPF: low pass filter, H-S: hi-shelving

G (gain): -18 dB to FLAT to +18 dB (default: FLAT)

F (frequency): 500 Hz to 20.2 kHz (default: 1.00 kHz)

Q: LPF, H-S, 0.1 to 20 (default: 1.0)

ON/OFF: ON or OFF (default: ON)

*LPF: low pass filter, H-S: hi-shelving

G (gain): -18 dB to FLAT to +18 dB (default: FLAT)

F (frequency): fixed to 400 Hz (effective frequency: 100 Hz)

Q: fixed to L-S

ON/OFF: ON or OFF (default: ON)

*L-S: low-shelving

You cannot apply the equalizer to channels 13-14 or 15-16 if they are specified as compressor channels in the Setup mode. If you press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for a compressor channel in the EQ screen, a warning message (“Can’t Select!”) flashes, and the operation is cancelled. The CH STATUS/CH SEL indicators for compressor channels do not flash when entering the EQ edit screen.

If two adjacent channels are fader-paired, pressing one of the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for these channels selects both channels. You can then adjust the EQ parameters, and the adjustments will apply to both channels simultaneously.

1. Press the [EFF1/EFF2] key to bring up the effect send level screen (EFF1 and EFF2 screens alternate with each press). The first time, “Select CH!” will flash.

2. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key of the desired channel. The current setting and channel name appear, with the channel icon flashing.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to control the send level (00 to 99 dB).

4. To set another channel’s send level, repeat steps 2 and 3.

5. After completing send level editing, press the [EXIT/NO] key to return to the Normal display.

Channels 1 through 16 and the master level.

00 to 99 (dB). The default setting is “00” for channels 1 through 16, and “80” for the master level.

1. Press the [EFF1/EFF2] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The pre/post selection screen for EFF1 or EFF2 appears (alternating with each press). The first time, “Select CH!” will flash.

2. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key of the desired channel. The current setting (PRE or POST) and channel name appear, with the channel icon flashing.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to switch the selection between PRE and POST.

4. To set another channel’s pre/post selection, repeat steps 2 and 3.

5. After completing the selection, press the [EXIT/NO] key (this step is implied, matching other similar procedures).

PRE (Pre-fader): The signal sent to the effect processor is not affected by the channel fader. Even if the channel fader is lowered to minimum, the signal can still be sent to the effect processor.

POST (Post-fader): The signal sent to the effect processor is adjusted by the channel fader. If you lower the channel fader, the signal sent to the effect processor is also lowered.

Channels 1 through 16.

PRE or PST (post). The default for all channels is “PST”.

If two adjacent channels are fader-paired, pressing one of the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for these channels selects both channels. You can then adjust the effect send level, and the adjustment will apply to both channels simultaneously.

If two adjacent channels are fader-paired, pressing one of the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for these channels selects both channels. You can then set PRE or POST, and the setting will apply to both channels simultaneously.

1. Press the [AUX1/AUX2] key to bring up the AUX send level screen (AUX1 and AUX2 screens alternate with each press). The first time, “Select CH!” will flash.

2. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key of the desired channel. The current setting and channel name appear, with the channel icon flashing.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to control the send level (00 to 99 dB). “80” is the reference level.

4. To set another channel’s send level, repeat steps 2 and 3.

5. After completing send level editing, press the [EXIT/NO] key to return to the Normal display.

Channels 1 through 16 and the master level.

00 to 99 (dB). The default setting is “00” for channels 1 through 16, and “80” for the master level.

1. Press the [AUX1/AUX2] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The pre/post selection screen for AUX1 or AUX2 appears (alternating with each press). The first time, “Select CH!” will flash.

2. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key of the desired channel. The current setting (PRE or POST) and channel name appear, with the channel icon flashing.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to switch the selection between PRE and POST.

4. To set another channel’s pre/post selection, repeat steps 2 and 3.

5. After completing the pre/post selection, press the [EXIT/NO] key.

PRE (Pre-fader): The signal sent to the [AUX SEND] jack is not affected by the channel fader. Even if the channel fader is lowered to minimum, the signal can still be sent out.

POST (Post-fader): The signal sent to the [AUX SEND] jack is adjusted by the channel fader. If you lower the channel fader, the signal sent out is also lowered.

Channels 1 through 16.

PRE or PST (post). The default for all channels is “PST”.

If two adjacent channels are fader-paired, pressing one of the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for these channels selects both channels. You can then adjust the AUX send level, and the adjustment will apply to both channels simultaneously.

If two adjacent channels are fader-paired, pressing one of the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for these channels selects both channels. You can then set PRE or POST, and the setting will apply to both channels simultaneously.

1. Press the [PAN] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The Fader View screen appears, showing current fader positions graphically and numerically.

2. Use the desired physical fader to control the channel level. The fader position on the screen changes in real-time.

3. After completing fader level setting, press the [EXIT/NO] key to return to the Normal display.

Channels 1 through 16 and the master channel.

00 to 99. The value is displayed as a whole number, but the actual signal level changes smoothly and continuously.

If two adjacent channels are fader-paired, the physical fader for the odd-numbered channel controls the levels for both channels simultaneously.

1. Press the [HI-G/F/Q] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The compressor setting screen appears. The first time, “Select CH!” flashes along with indicators for channels where the compressor can be applied (Master, 13-14 or 15-16 depending on Setup).

2. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key of the desired channel (e.g., 13 for channels 13-14 if paired or selected). The compressor parameters for that channel can now be edited.

3. Press the [HI-G/F/Q] key (while still holding SHIFT) repeatedly to cycle through the parameters: THSHD (Threshold), RATIO, ATTACK, GAIN, ON/OFF. For each selected parameter, use the [JOG] dial to enter the desired value within the available ranges.

4. After completing the parameter setting, press the [EXIT/NO] key to return to the Normal display.

The compressor is used to compress the dynamic range of an input signal. If the input signal exceeds a set threshold level, the gain is decreased as the input level increases. This reduces the dynamic range of the output signal.

You cannot apply the equalizer to the input channels (13-14 or 15-16) that the compressor is applied to. However, you can apply both the equalizer and compressor to the master channel.

The built-in compressor can be applied only to channels 13 through 16 and the master channel.

You select whether the compressor applies to channels 13-14 or 15-16 using the “Compressor channel setting” in the Setup mode. The compressor can be applied to the master channel anytime, regardless of this setting.

Threshold level (THSHD): 0.0 dB to -50.0 dB (in 0.5 dB increments). Default: -20dB (13-14/15-16), -25dB (master).

Ratio: -∞:1, 20:1, 10:1, 8:1, 6:1, 5:1, 4:1, 3.5:1, 3:1, 2.5:1, 2:1, 1.7:1, 1.5:1, 1.3:1, 1.1:1, 1:1. Default: 10:1 (13-14/15-16), 4:1 (master).

Attack time (ATACK): 5 ms to 75 ms (in 1 ms increments). Default: “60ms” (13-14/15-16), “8ms” (master).

Gain: 0.0 dB to +18.0 dB (in 0.5 dB increments). Default: 0.0 dB (13-14/15-16/master).

Compressor on/off: On, Off. Default: “Off.”

If two adjacent channels (e.g., 13-14) are fader-paired, pressing one of the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for these channels applies the compressors to both channels simultaneously. You can then edit the parameters for both.

1. Press the [LO-G] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The channel view screen appears. The first time, “Select CH!” flashes.

2. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key of the desired channel. The current setting information for that channel is shown, along with the channel name.

3. To turn off the channel view screen, press the [EXIT/NO] key.

1) Channel on/off status

2) Fader levels

3) Send levels and pre/post selections for EFF1, EFF2, AUX1, and AUX2

4) Pan positions

5) Signal destination (stereo busses or Rec busses)

If two adjacent channels are fader-paired, when pressing the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for the even channel, the fader icon in the Channel View screen is shown with a dotted line.

1. Channel 1 is currently selected.
2. The channel is on.
3. The channel fader is set to “00” (-∞).
4. The pan is in the center position.
5. The signal is fed to ST OUT (L/R).
6. The post-fader signal of the selected channel is fed to EFF1 at level 80.
7. The post-fader signal of the selected channel is fed to EFF2 at level 80.
8. The post-fader signal of the selected channel is fed to AUX1 at level 80.
9. The post-fader signal of the selected channel is fed to AUX2 at level 80.

A.S.P. is an exclusive digital effect processing technology by Fostex designed to extract maximum efficiency from DSP power. It utilizes H.F.A. for high-density Early Reflection sounds and smooth High Dump response, and H.D.L.P. for clear reverb simulation by minimizing interference between delay modules.

H.F.A. focuses on reproducing a clear and natural “Early Reflection Sound” (the first reverberations bouncing off surfaces). It applies an ideal harmonic feedback to each delay module to achieve this, enhancing the overall reverb quality.

H.D.L.P. applies efficient logarithmic processing to the many small delay elements within a reverb effect. This organizes the relationship between delay modules, minimizes negative interference, and eliminates harmful elements and roughness, resulting in high-density, transparent reverb sounds.

Reverb consists of various reflection sounds mixed together, creating the lingering sound you hear after a sound stops, like clapping in a tunnel. It typically involves Direct sound, Early Reflection sound, and Late Reflection sound heard in sequence.

Delay adds a delayed copy of the original sound. It can be used to create a richer sound or completely change the original source sound.

Chorus makes a single original sound appear as if it comes from multiple sources. It is used to widen or thicken the original sound.

Flanger is an application of delay used to create a sweeping sound, often described as similar to a jet airplane ascending or descending.

Effect presets are classified into three types: ambience/delay (No.1-28), modulation/pitch (No.29-36), and pitch (No.37-38). If you switch the effect preset between these different types, the audio is momentarily muted.

1. Press the [EFF 1] key (for EFF 1) or [EFF 2] key (for EFF 2). The initial effect type display appears (e.g., “L01: Norm HALL” for EFF 1, “L35: CHORUS” for EFF 2).

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired effect type from the list. The selected effect type will blink, indicating it hasn’t been finalized.

3. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The effect type is finalized (sound may mute momentarily), and the parameter setting screen appears with default values.

4. To exit Effect Edit mode, press the [EXIT/NO] key twice to return to the Normal display.

Note: Ensure sound is audible by raising appropriate channel and master faders, and effect send levels as described in previous sections.

1. If the desired parameter is not displayed, press the [EFF 1] key (or [EFF 2] key) twice to enter the parameter edit screen.

2. Press the [EFF 1] key (or [EFF 2] key) repeatedly to cycle through the available parameters for the selected effect type.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to adjust the value of the displayed parameter.

4. If you wish to adjust another parameter, repeat from step 2.

5. When finished, press the [EXIT/NO] key twice to exit Effect Edit mode.

To mute: Hold down the [SHIFT] key and press the [EFF 1] key (or [EFF 2] key). The effect sound is muted (dry sound remains), and the corresponding key’s LED turns off.

To cancel muting: Hold down the [SHIFT] key and press the [EFF 1] key (or [EFF 2] key) again. The effect sound returns, and the corresponding key’s LED turns on.

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. Rev Time: Adjusts reverberation length (0.1-9.9 seconds).

3. Pre Delay: Adjusts time until reverberation begins (0-100 ms).

4. Hi Ratio: Adjusts high-frequency decay ratio (0-10).

5. E/R Level: Adjusts early reflections volume (0-99).

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. Delay Time: Adjusts delay time (1-230 ms).

3. Feedback: Adjusts number of delay repeats (0-99).

4. Delay Bal: Adjusts delay balance (0-99).

5. Rev Time: Adjusts reverberation length (0.1-9.9 seconds).

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. Delay Time: Adjusts delay time (1-680 ms).

3. Feedback: Adjusts number of delay repeats (0-99).

4. Hi Ratio: Adjusts high-frequency decay ratio (0-10).

5. Filter: Adjusts delay sound tone (L9-L1=LPF, OFF, H1-H9=HPF).

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. BPM: Adjusts BPM (30-250 bpm). Can also reflect tempo map setting.

3. Note: Selects note value for delay (Range: 24, 16, 8T, 16., 8, 4T, 8., 4, 2T, 4., 2, 2., 1).

4. Feedback: Adjusts number of delay repeats (0-99).

5. Filter: Adjusts delay sound tone (L9-L1=LPF, OFF, H1-H9=HPF).

1. Select effect type “L31: MonoBpmDL” or “L32: Pan BpmDL” using the [EFF2] key and [JOG] dial.

2. Select the “BPM” parameter for editing.

3. Rotate the [JOG] dial clockwise past the maximum value of “250”. The BPM value field will show “***M”, where “***” is the current tempo map value and “M” indicates it’s following the map.

4. After setting the BPM value to “***M”, press the [EXIT/NO] key to quit the effect edit mode.

Note: This assumes an appropriate tempo map is already set in the SETUP mode. If using the default tempo map (120), the BPM value will be set to “120”. To set a specific BPM value independent of the tempo map, select a value without the “M”.

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. Delay Time: Adjusts delay time (0.1-9.9 ms, 10-99 ms, 100-200 ms).

3. Feedback: Adjusts number of delay repeats (0-99).

4. Hi Ratio: Adjusts high-frequency decay ratio (0-10).

5. Filter: Adjusts delay sound tone (L9-L1=LPF, OFF, H1-H9=HPF).

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. Lch Delay: Adjusts L channel delay time (0.1-9.9 ms, 10-99 ms, 100-200 ms).

3. Rch Delay: Adjusts R channel delay time (0.1-9.9 ms, 10-99 ms, 100-200 ms).

4. Filter: Adjusts delay sound tone (L9-L1=LPF, OFF, H1-H9=HPF).

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. Depth: Adjusts chorus depth (0-99).

3. Double Time: Adjusts time difference of doubling effect (0-99).

4. Double Lvl: Adjusts volume of doubling effect (0-99).

5. Filter: Adjusts delay sound tone (L9-L1=LPF, OFF, H1-H9=HPF).

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. Rate: Adjusts modulation speed (0.01-2.00 Hz).

3. Depth: Adjusts modulation depth (0-99).

4. Mod Delay: Adjusts modulation delay (0-200).

5. Feedback: Adjusts number of modulation repeats (0-99).

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. Pitch: Adjusts pitch shift amount (-24 to +24 semitones; +/-12 is one octave).

3. Adjust: Makes fine pitch adjustments (-50 to +50 cents; +/-50 is one semitone).

4. Mode: Selects processing method (1-3).

1. Eff Level: Adjusts effect return level (0-99).

2. Pitch: Adjusts pitch shift amount (-24 to +24 semitones; +/-12 is one octave).

3. Adjust: Makes fine pitch adjustments (-50 to +50 cents; +/-50 is one semitone).

4. Delay Time: Adjusts delay time until pitch-shifted sound is heard (0-500 ms).

5. Feedback: Adjusts number of delay repeats (0-99).

1. Press the [SCENE-STORE] key. The scene selection screen appears.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired scene number (S00-S99 for permanent, T00-T09 for temporary) and press [ENTER/YES].

3. The title editing screen appears. Enter a desired scene name (up to 16 characters) using the [JOG] dial to select characters and [REWIND]/[F FWD] keys to move the cursor.

4. After entering the name, press the [ENTER/YES] key. The settings are stored, and the display returns to the Normal display showing the new scene name.

You can use uppercase letters (A-Z), lowercase letters (a-z), numbers (0-9), and the following symbols: + – * / # & ! ? ( ) [ ] < > : . _ , <- ->

1. Press the [SCENE-RECALL] key. The scene selection screen appears.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired scene number (S00-S99 or T00-T09).

3. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. “Scene Recalled” appears briefly, then the selected scene is recalled, and the display changes to the Normal display.

Note: The contents recalled depend on the “Fader recall” setting in the SETUP mode. Be cautious with audio levels, as audio will output at the stored fader positions regardless of current physical fader positions. Consider turning down the volume before recalling.

Yes, scene memories stored in scene numbers 00 to 99 are preserved even if the power is turned off.

No, temporary memories stored in Temporary numbers 00 to 09 disappear, and parameters return to default “Un-defined” settings when the power is turned off. They are preserved when changing programs. To keep a temporary memory permanently, recall it and store it to a standard Scene number (00-99) before powering off.

The flashing red indicator of the [FADER ADJUST] key signifies that the recalled fader level(s) in the current scene do not match the current physical position(s) of the fader(s). This happens if the “Fader recall” setting in SETUP is not “Off”.

Level Adjust sets the internal fader levels to match the current physical fader positions.

1. Press the [FADER ADJUST] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The Level Adjust mode screen appears with fader icons and flashing “Sure?”. Recalled positions are shown as knobs, current physical positions by “>” and “<".

2. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. “Completed!” appears briefly. The internal fader positions are set to match the physical fader positions, and the flashing FADER ADJUST indicator turns off. The display returns to Normal.

Fader Adjust allows you to move the physical faders to match the recalled fader levels stored in the scene. This requires the “Fader recall setting” in SETUP to be “CH&MST” or “CH”.

1. Press the [FADER ADJUST] key alone. The Fader Adjust mode screen appears with fader icons and flashing “Select CH!”. Recalled positions are shown as knobs, current physical positions by “>” and “<".

2. Select the channel to adjust by pressing its corresponding [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key.

3. Move the physical fader for that channel until its “>” and “<" indicators align with the recalled knob position shown on the screen. The fader icon will change to indicate alignment.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 for each channel fader that needs adjustment.

5. After adjusting all necessary faders, press the [EXIT/NO] key. The FADER ADJUST indicator turns off.

Note: If the fader recall setting is “Off”, pressing [FADER ADJUST] shows “Fader Recall Off” and returns to Normal display.

The icons show the relationship between the current physical fader position (indicated by “>” and “<") and the recalled fader position (indicated by the knob icon):

• Physical position higher than recalled position.

• Physical position lower than recalled position.

• Physical position matches the recalled position.

Press the [SCENE-RECALL] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. Each press recalls the next sequential scene memory stored on the disk.

Note: You can only recall scenes following the currently loaded scene. Scene number 00 cannot be recalled this way. This function won’t work if no scenes other than S00 are stored, or if the highest numbered scene is already recalled (“No-additional Scene” will be displayed). The “Fader recall setting” is effective during direct recall.

1. Press the [SCENE RECALL] and [SCENE STORE] keys simultaneously. The screen for selecting a scene to clear appears.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired scene number to be cleared (you cannot select S00 or the currently active scene) and press the [ENTER/YES] key.

3. A confirmation message appears with “Sure?” flashing. To cancel, press [EXIT/NO].

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key again. The selected scene memory is cleared, its name changes to “[Un-defined]”, and the scene selection screen reappears.

No, you cannot clear the memory for scene number 00 (S00 Init Mix) or the scene that is currently loaded (whose number flashes in the selection list). If you attempt to clear S00, a warning “Warning Can’t Clear Current Scene” appears.

A Scene Event Map allows you to recall specific scene memories (mixer settings) at desired positions (defined by timecode like ABS or Bar/Beat/Clk) during playback. You can create up to 99 event memories (01 to 99).

1. While the VF160 is stopped or during playback, press the [HOLD/>] key at the desired position. The time is held and displayed.

2. Press the [STORE] key. The message “Hit Any Memory Keys!” appears.

3. Press the [LOCATE/EVT MEM] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. “Entry EVT**” (where ** is the event memory number) appears briefly, and the time held in step 1 is entered into that event memory.

4. To create more event memories this way, repeat steps 1 through 3.

Note: Event memories created this way only contain time data. You need to assign a scene number later using the event map editing procedure.

Event memory numbers (01-99) are assigned in ascending order based on their ABS time, regardless of the order in which they were created. If you create an event at 05m 00s (EVT01) and then create another at 03m 30s, the 03m 30s event will become EVT01, and the 05m 00s event will become EVT02.

While the VF160 is stopped, press the [SCENE STORE/MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The Event Map list screen appears, showing the time and assigned scene number (initially “Non”) for each created event memory. The event memory number nearest the current position flashes.

In the Event Map list screen (accessed via SHIFT + [SCENE STORE/MAP]), use the [JOG] dial to select the desired event number, then press the [LOCATE] key. The VF160 will locate to the time stored in that event memory.

1. While the VF160 is stopped, press the [SCENE STORE/MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key to access the Event Map list.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select “01 New Event” (assuming no events exist yet) and press [ENTER/YES]. The Event Edit screen appears with “Non” flashing in the Scene number field.

3. Use the [F FWD] and [REW] keys to move the flashing cursor within the time display (h -> m -> s -> f -> sf).

4. Use the [JOG] dial to enter the desired value for the flashing time field. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for all time fields.

5. After editing the time, press the [ENTER/YES] key. The event memory is created with the specified time, and the display returns to the Normal display.

6. To create more event memories, repeat steps 1 through 5.

Note: Event memory 00 (the start point) cannot be edited. You can assign a scene number during this process before pressing Enter in step 5, or assign it later.

1. Access the Event Map list (SHIFT + [SCENE STORE/MAP] while stopped).

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired event memory (e.g., “01 00h02m30s Non”) and press [ENTER/YES]. The Event Edit screen appears, with “Non” (or the currently assigned scene number) flashing.

3. While the scene number is flashing, use the [JOG] dial to select the desired scene number (S01-S99) to be recalled at this event time. The corresponding scene name is displayed.

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The selected scene number is assigned to the event memory. The display returns to the Event Map list, showing the assigned scene number.

5. Repeat steps 2-4 to assign scenes to other events.

1. While the VF160 is stopped, press the [SCENE STORE/MAP] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key to access the Event Map list.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select the event memory you want to delete and press [ENTER/YES]. The Event Edit screen appears.

3. While the scene number is flashing, rotate the [JOG] dial counterclockwise. “EVT DEL” (Event Delete) flashes in the scene number field.

4. While “EVT DEL” is flashing, press the [ENTER/YES] key. A confirmation message with “Sure?” flashing appears.

5. Press the [ENTER/YES] key again. The selected event memory is deleted, and the screen returns to the Event Map list.

6. Press the [EXIT/NO] key or [STOP] key to return to the Normal display.

Note: You cannot delete event memory 00. To cancel deletion at step 5, press [EXIT/NO].

While the VF160 is stopped, press the [ARTNAPLAY/SCENE SEQ] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. “SCENE SQ: ON” or “SCENE SQ: OFF” is briefly shown, and the mode toggles. When ON, the scene number indicator on the Normal display is highlighted.

Fader positions are recalled according to the “Fader recall mode” setting in the SETUP mode (default is “Off”).

• If set to “CH & MST”, both channel and master faders are automatically recalled with each scene change.

• If set to “Off”, fader positions are not recalled, allowing manual control.

Ensure the fader recall mode is set appropriately for your workflow before executing a scene sequence.

No. The scene sequence function does not recall an effect preset whose type (ambience/delay, modulation/pitch, pitch) is different from the currently active one. This is to prevent momentary audio muting and is not a malfunction. Other mix parameters within the scene (levels, pan, EQ, etc.) can still be recalled even if the effect preset type is different.

1. Start playback by pressing [PLAY].

2. Press the [F FWD] or [REWIND] key during playback. “FWD >” or “< RWD" appears on the LCD, and 3x speed cueing begins.

3. Press [PLAY] again to return to normal 1x playback speed.

Note: Cueing stops and playback starts from the beginning if rewound to ABS 0. Cueing stops if the end of the program is reached.

1. Start playback by pressing [PLAY].

2. While holding down the [SHIFT] key, turn the [JOG/SHUTTLE] dial:

• Turn right for forward shuttle cueing.

• Turn left for rewind shuttle cueing.

The cueing speed (1x, 2x, 4x, 8x, 16x, 32x, 64x) depends on how far the dial is turned and is shown on the LCD.

Shuttle cueing continues as long as [SHIFT] is held, even if the dial isn’t being turned.

3. Release the [SHIFT] key to return to normal 1x playback speed.

1. With the recorder in the STOP state, press the [SCRUB] key. The scrub mode is activated, showing “< STILL Select TRK!".

2. Press the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key of the track you want to scrub. The level envelope (waveform) of that track appears with a default magnification of x1.

3. Turn the [JOG] dial left or right to scrub the audio of the selected track at 0-1x speed without pitch change. The center line indicates the current location.

4. To exit scrub mode, press the [STOP] key.

Digital scrubbing allows you to cue audio at a very slow speed (0-1x) without changing the pitch, while viewing the track’s waveform (level envelope). It is effective for pinpoint searches, such as finding the exact start of a song or a specific point between sections.

Use the [F FWD] and [REWIND] keys while in scrub mode:

• Press [F FWD] to increase magnification (x01 -> x02 -> x04 -> x08 -> x16).

• Press [REWIND] to decrease magnification.

The current magnification is shown at the bottom of the display and applies globally to all tracks. It resets to x01 when the power is turned off.

You can temporarily view at x01 (if currently higher) by holding down the [SHIFT] key.

Press the [VARI PITCH] key. The key lights GREEN when ON and turns OFF when OFF. This can be done when the recorder is in STOP or PLAY mode, but not during recording.

1. Put the recorder in STOP or PLAY mode.

2. Press the [VARI PITCH/P.EDIT] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The Pitch Edit screen appears, showing the current setting (e.g., “0.0%”) with the “%” flashing.

3. Turn the [JOG] dial to set the desired pitch change percentage (+/- 6.0% in 0.1% increments).

4. Press the [EXIT/NO] key to return to the normal display.

Variable pitch is automatically turned OFF in the following cases:

1. When the power is turned ON again (pitch data resets to 0.0%).

2. When the “Slave Mode On/Off Setting” in SETUP is turned “On” (previously set pitch data is saved).

3. When “FFOIF” and “HOAT” light up on the display while the “Digital Input Setting” in SETUP is set to “S/P DIF” or “adat”.

1. Press the [A RTN/A PLAY] key during Normal Display until the Auto Play icon appears on the LCD.

2. Use location functions (like Locate keys) to go to a desired point.

Playback automatically starts from the time located.

Auto Return automatically locates a pre-set START point when playback reaches a pre-set END point. You must set both START and END point times for it to function.

1. Go to the desired START point time (during play or stop mode).

2. Press the [STORE] key, then immediately press the [AUTO RTN-START] key. The START time is set.

3. Go to the desired END point time (must be after the START point).

4. Press the [STORE] key, then immediately press the [AUTO RTN-END] key. The END time is set.

Note: Always set the START point time before the END point time. The recorder stops when a time is stored during playback.

1. Set the START and END point times as described previously.

2. Press the [A RTN/A PLAY] key during Normal Display until the Auto Return icon appears on the LCD.

3. Play the VF160 from a point before the END point time.

When playback reaches the END point, the unit will automatically locate to the START point and stop.

1. Set the START and END point times as described previously.

2. Press the [A RTN/A PLAY] key during Normal Display until the Auto Repeat icon appears on the LCD.

3. Start playback from a point before the END point time.

When playback reaches the END point, the unit will automatically locate to the START point and immediately start playing again, repeating the segment between the START and END points.

1. Ensure the VF160 is in the STOP state.

2. Press the [PGM SEL] key. The current program number and “Select PGM!” appear, with “Sure?” flashing.

3. Turn the [JOG] dial clockwise until “New PGM?” appears.

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The system creates a new program and automatically proceeds to the “Title Edit” screen in SETUP mode.

5. Input a title using the [JOG] dial and [HOLD/>], [REWIND], [F FWD] keys.

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to set the title.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] (or [STOP]) to exit SETUP mode. The Normal Display for the new program appears.

Note: You can skip title editing (steps 5-6) by pressing [EXIT/NO] twice after step 4; a tentative title (#000x) will be assigned.

The contents (settings, but not audio data) of the program that was currently active when you initiated the “Create New Program” process are copied as the default settings for the newly created program. To ensure consistent default settings, first select a program with the desired defaults before creating a new one.

The next sequential program number available on the disk is assigned. For example, if programs P01 through P05 exist, creating a new program will assign it P06.

The program name (either the tentative title like #0002 or the one you enter) is automatically copied to scene name S01 for that program.

No. Creating a new program uses a small amount of disk space. If there is not enough available disk space, you cannot create a new program.

1. Ensure the VF160 is in the STOP state.

2. Press the [PGM SEL] key. The current program number flashes.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select the target program number (it will flash).

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The Normal Display for the selected program appears.

1. First, select the program you want to erase using the “Selecting a Program” procedure.

2. Press the [SETUP] key while in the STOP state.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select the “Delete PGM” menu option and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current program number and title appear with “Sure?” flashing. To cancel, press [EXIT/NO].

5. Press the [ENTER/YES] key to confirm the erasure. The program is deleted, and the Normal Display of the next sequential program appears.

Note: Erasure cannot be undone. Make sure you have selected the correct program before erasing.

Program numbers always remain sequential. When a program is erased (e.g., P03 is erased when P01-P05 exist), the subsequent programs are renumbered. In this example, P04 becomes P03, and P05 becomes P04. The data from the erased program is gone, but the numbering sequence is maintained without gaps.

No, it is not possible to UNDO/REDO the program erase function once a program has been erased.

1. First, select the program whose title you want to edit using the “Selecting a Program” procedure.

2. Press the [SETUP] key while in the STOP state.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select the “Title Edit PGM” menu option and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current title appears with the leftmost character flashing, ready for editing.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to change characters and the [REWIND]/[F FWD]/[HOLD/>] keys to move the cursor.

6. After inputting the new title (up to 16 characters), press the [ENTER/YES] key.

7. The title is set, and the LCD returns to the Normal Display with the updated title.

1. Copy & Paste: Copies a specific range of data from a track to the clipboard, which can then be pasted elsewhere, potentially multiple times.

2. Move & Paste: Moves a specific range of data from a track to the clipboard. The original data is removed, and the clipboard data can only be pasted once.

3. Erase: Erases a specific range of data on a track or all real tracks.

4. Track Exchange: Interchanges the entire contents of tracks (mono, 2-track, or 8-track units) between real tracks (1-16) and additional tracks (17-24).

All editing is non-destructive and only possible within the currently selected program.

No, editing processes other than Track Exchange (Copy & Paste, Move & Paste, Erase) are only options for real tracks (Trk 1-16). To edit data on additional tracks (Trk 17-24), you must first use Track Exchange to move the data to a real track.

1. Set the start point of the section to copy/move using the [CLIPBOARD IN] key, the end point using the [CLIPBOARD OUT] key, and the paste destination start point using the [AUTO PUNCH IN] key.

2. Press the [EDIT] key and use the [JOG] dial to select either “Copy Clip?” or “Move Clip?”.

3. Use the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key to select the source track(s) to copy or move.

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. “Completed!” appears, and the display then shows “Copy Paste?” or “Move Paste?”, indicating the data is on the clipboard and ready for pasting.

Note: Check clipboard data instructions follow this step before pasting.

1. Press the [PLAY] key while holding down the [STOP] key. “Copy Clip Play!” or “Move Clip Play!” appears, and the sound data currently on the clipboard is played back.

2. Monitor the sound using the channel fader corresponding to the source track (the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key flashes). Playback stops automatically when finished.

3. Press the [EDIT] key after checking. The display returns to the “Copy Paste?” or “Move Paste?” screen.

5. With “Copy Paste?” or “Move Paste?” flashing, press the [ENTER/YES] key. The paste repeat frequency menu appears (“Repeat=01”) with “01” and “Sure?” flashing.

6. Use the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key to select the destination track (only changeable for mono tracks or specific paired tracks, otherwise defaults to source).

7. Turn the [JOG] dial to choose the paste repeat frequency (01-99, limited by disk space).

8. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. “Please Wait!” flashes while pasting. “Completed!” appears when done.

9. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit edit mode.

The paste destination track can only be changed from the original source track under two conditions:

1. When the data copied/moved was from a single mono track.

2. When the data copied/moved was from two adjacent odd/even tracks (e.g., 1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8, etc.).

In all other cases (e.g., copying multiple non-adjacent tracks or tracks like 1-3), the paste destination cannot be changed and the data will be pasted back onto the original source track(s) at the AUTO PUNCH IN point.

• UNDO: Immediately after a paste operation, while the recorder is in the STOP state, press the [UNDO/REDO] key. The pasted data will be removed (unpasted), returning to the pre-paste status.

• REDO: Immediately after performing an UNDO (unpasting), press the [UNDO/REDO] key again. The data will be pasted back (re-pasted), returning to the post-paste status.

Note: UNDO/REDO is only possible in the STOP state and before certain actions occur (new recording/editing, specific playback conditions, power off, program change).

Copy & Paste (or Move & Paste) requires enough disk space to temporarily store data for the UNDO/REDO function. If there is insufficient disk space when you attempt to paste, “Over Time!” will appear on the display, indicating the time excess, and the paste operation will be prevented. You need to either shorten the data being copied/moved or erase unnecessary data/programs to free up disk space, then retry the paste.

Normally, when pasting, the CLIPBOARD IN point of the copied/moved data aligns with the AUTO PUNCH IN point on the destination track.

The ALIGN SEL function allows you to designate a specific point within the clipboard data (e.g., the actual start of a measure or sound) as the alignment point. This ALIGN SEL point, instead of the CLIPBOARD IN point, will then align with the AUTO PUNCH IN point during the paste operation. This is useful for precisely aligning musical measures or sounds when pasting, especially if the CLIPBOARD IN point doesn’t correspond to the desired musical start point.

1. Copy or Move the desired audio data to the clipboard as usual.

2. Recall the data stored in the [ALIGN SEL] key by pressing [ALIGN SEL].

3. Correct this recalled time data point so it corresponds exactly to the head (start point) of the measure or sound within the clipboard data that you want to align.

4. Press the [STORE] key, then press the [ALIGN SEL] key again to register this corrected time as the new ALIGN SEL point.

5. Set the AUTO PUNCH IN point on the destination track where you want the aligned measure/sound to start.

6. Execute the Copy & Paste (or Move & Paste) operation. The data will be pasted so that the registered ALIGN SEL point aligns perfectly with the AUTO PUNCH IN point.

Note: The range for correcting the ALIGN SEL data must be strictly within the CLIPBOARD IN and CLIPBOARD OUT points.

There are two main options using the ERASE function:

1. Erase a selected section between ABS 0 and REC END: Erases data within a specified time range (defined by AUTO PUNCH IN and AUTO PUNCH OUT points) on selected tracks (mono, multiple, or all real tracks). The REC END point remains unchanged.

2. Erase from a specified point to REC END: Erases all data from a specified point (AUTO PUNCH IN) to the end of the recording (REC END) on selected tracks. If erasing all tracks, the REC END point moves forward to the specified start point. If erasing only some tracks, the overall REC END point might not move if other tracks have data beyond the erased section.

Both methods free up disk space.

1. Set the starting point of the section to erase using the [AUTO PUNCH IN] key and the ending point using the [AUTO PUNCH OUT] key.

2. Press the [EDIT] key in the STOP state and select “Erase?”.

3. Use the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key to select the track(s) to erase (mono or multiple real tracks). The selected track key(s) will flash.

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. “Sure?” flashes.

5. Press the [ENTER/YES] key again. “Wait Erasing!” flashes, then “Completed!” appears when done.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to return to the Normal Display.

To erase everything from a certain point to the very end of all recorded material:

1. Set the starting point using [AUTO PUNCH IN].

2. Locate the current REC END point.

3. Press [PLAY] briefly to move slightly past the REC END point, then press [STOP].

4. Set this new STOP point as the ending point using [AUTO PUNCH OUT].

5. Proceed with the erase function, selecting “all tracks” if necessary.

This ensures the erase operation covers the entire duration of the recording.

• UNDO: Immediately after an erase operation, while the recorder is in the STOP state, press the [UNDO/REDO] key. The erased data will be restored (unerased).

• REDO: Immediately after performing an UNDO (unerasing), press the [UNDO/REDO] key again. The data will be erased again.

Note: UNDO/REDO is only possible in the STOP state and before certain actions occur (new recording/editing, specific playback conditions, power off, program change).

Track Exchange allows you to interchange the entire contents of tracks between the real tracks (1-16) and the additional tracks (17-24). This can be done for single mono tracks, pairs of tracks (2-track blocks), or groups of 8 tracks (8-track blocks). It’s useful for moving data to temporary holding tracks (additional tracks) to free up real tracks for recording, or for bringing data from additional tracks back to real tracks for editing or mixdown.

1. Press the [EDIT] key while the recorder is in the STOP state, and use the [JOG] dial to show “Track Exchange?”.

2. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The track exchange selection display appears (e.g., “01-08<=>09-16″).

3. Select Left Side: While the left side is flashing, use the [JOG] dial to select the source track or track block (e.g., “04”, “01&02”, “01-08”).

4. Select Right Side: Press the [HOLD/>] or [F FWD] key to make the right side flash. Use the [JOG] dial to select the destination track or track block.

5. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The tracks are instantly exchanged, “Completed!” appears briefly, and the LCD returns to the original time base display.

Caution: Selecting the same track(s) on both sides results in “Select Err”.

No, for mono tracks, the order does not matter. “04<=>01″ and “01<=>04″ both mean that the contents of track 1 and track 4 will be exchanged.

Connecting:

1. Connect the guidance source (e.g., drum machine OUT) to [INPUT] H.

2. Connect the sources to be recorded to [INPUT] A through F (or other desired inputs).

Setting Input H (Guidance):

1. Press [INPUT SEL] (Orange flashing).

2. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for ch16 until it flashes ORANGE (ch16 -> INPUT).

3. Press [EXIT/NO].

4. Set ch16 fader and master fader to “0”.

5. Start the guidance source (drum machine) and adjust its level using [TRIM] 8/16/H. Monitor via [MON OUT] or [PHONES].

Setting Inputs A-F (Recording):

1. Press [DIRECT-REC TRK].

2. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for ch1-ch6 so tracks 1-6 flash RED (READY).

3. Press [EXIT/NO].

4. Set ch1-ch6 faders to “0”.

5. Press [RECORD] (RED flashing) to enter input monitor mode.

6. Adjust [TRIM] for channels 1-6 while monitoring the mix of inputs A-F and H. Set PAN as desired.

Record:

1. Press the [PLAY] key while the [RECORD] key is depressed (flashing).

Recording starts. Inputs A-F record directly to tracks 1-6, guided by Input H.

No. If the ch16 fader/channel is set to monitor an INPUT (Input H in the example), then track 16 cannot enter REC READY status, and recording onto track 16 is not possible.

No. When channel 16 is set to monitor Input H, the ch16 fader only adjusts the level of the Input H signal being sent to the stereo OUT (for monitoring). It does not affect the level of signals being recorded onto other tracks.

Internal Mixdown is a function on the VF160 that allows you to mix the audio from up to 16 recorded tracks within a program down to a stereo signal. This stereo mix is then recorded onto tracks 1 and 2 of a new program automatically created on the current drive. It eliminates the need for an external master recorder for mixdown.

After executing an internal mixdown, a new program is automatically created on the current drive. Its program number is set to one greater than the highest existing program number. For example, if programs P01 through P08 exist, the mixdown result will be saved to tracks 1 and 2 of a newly created program P09.

Internal mixdown cannot be carried out if:

1. There are already 99 programs on the current drive (even if space exists). The message “Can’t New PGM!” is shown. You must delete an unnecessary program.

2. There is not enough recording space on the current drive (even if fewer than 99 programs exist). The message “Over time!” is shown. You must erase unnecessary song data or delete an unnecessary program.

1. Select the program you wish to mix down using the [PGM SEL] key, [JOG] dial, and [ENTER/YES] key.

2. When the unit is stopped, press the [DIRECT REC TRK] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key.

The program name on the display changes to “Int. Mixdown” in inverse video, and the [DIRECT REC TRK] key flashes, indicating the mode is active.

If you press SHIFT + [DIRECT REC TRK] when tracks are set for DIRECT or BUSS recording, the message “Rec Mode Change!” and “Sure?” will appear. Pressing [ENTER/YES] will cancel the previous recording setup and activate the internal mixdown mode. Pressing [EXIT/NO] cancels the operation.

The unit automatically quits internal mixdown mode after:

• Completing an internal mixdown recording.

• Performing a Program change.

• Performing a Program delete.

• Creating a new program.

• Formatting a disk.

• Performing Copy/paste or Move/paste.

• Performing Erase.

• Performing Save to/load from DAT/adat.

You need to reactivate the mode if you want to continue mixdown operations after any of these actions.

No. If “Rec Protect” in the Setup mode is set to “ON”, you cannot carry out internal mixdown. Attempting to do so will display “Protected!”. You must set “Rec Protect” to “OFF” in the Setup mode before performing internal mixdown.

1. Select the program to be mixed down.

2. Ensure the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for all source tracks (1-16) and the MASTER channel are lit (indicating they will be included in the mix).

3. Set the [MASTER] fader to the “0” position.

4. Press the [PLAY] key to start playback from the beginning of the program.

5. During playback, adjust individual channel faders (levels), PAN, EQ, and Effect settings as needed. Monitor the stereo mix through the [PHONES] jack (adjusting the [PHONES] control).

6. Repeat playback and adjustments until satisfied with the mix.

7. When finished rehearsing, stop the unit and locate the beginning of the program (e.g., press STOP + REWIND).

Yes, you can perform internal mixdown recording with the “Scene sequence” function active. Create the scene event map first, then execute the scene sequence during the mixdown process to automate mixer changes.

Only scenes that are set for direct recording can be recalled by the scene sequence during internal mixdown. Scenes set for buss recording cannot be recalled in this context.

1. After rehearsing, ensure the unit is located at the beginning of the program to be mixed.

2. Press the [DIRECT REC TRK] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key to activate the internal mixdown mode (display shows “Int. Mixdown”, key flashes).

3. Press the [PLAY] key while holding down the [RECORD] key. Internal mixdown recording starts. Tracks 1 and 2 are automatically armed. The [DIRECT REC TRK] and [RECORD] keys light up solid.

4. After the song finishes, press the [STOP] key.

5. “Please Wait!” appears briefly. The internal mixdown mode quits, a new program containing the mix is created, and the unit locates to the beginning (ABS 0) of this new program.

No, you cannot undo an internal mixdown recording. If you are not satisfied with the result, you must perform the mixdown again from the original program. If you no longer need the newly created mixed-down program, you can delete it using the “Delete PGM” menu in Setup mode.

When an internal mixdown is completed, the start and end times of the mixed-down audio section are automatically registered as the [CLIPBOARD IN] point and [CLIPBOARD OUT] point, respectively, within the newly created program.

When making an audio CD, only the data between the [CLIPBOARD IN] point and the [CLIPBOARD OUT] point of the mixed-down program is automatically recorded onto the CD track. Data outside this range is ignored.

If the audio starts exactly at the [CLIPBOARD IN] point, there will be no silence at the beginning of the CD track. To add silence:

Method 1 (Move & Paste): Use the Move & Paste function to shift the entire mixed-down audio data back by a few seconds (e.g., 3 seconds). This creates silence between ABS 0 and the new start of the audio, effectively moving the audio away from the unchanged [CLIPBOARD IN] point at ABS 0. See “Inserting silence at the beginning of a song” for detailed steps.

Method 2 (Change CLIPBOARD IN): Move the [CLIPBOARD IN] point forward by a few seconds (e.g., set it to 00M 03S 00F if the audio starts at 00M 00S 00F). This leaves the audio data in place but tells the CD burning process to start reading from the later time, effectively creating silence from the original start time to the new [CLIPBOARD IN] point.

When you use Move & Paste to shift the mixdown data (e.g., to insert silence at the beginning), the [CLIPBOARD IN] point does NOT change (it typically remains at ABS 0). However, the [CLIPBOARD OUT] point moves along with the end of the audio data. This means if you burn a CD without adjusting the [CLIPBOARD OUT] point afterwards, the end of the song might be cut off because the CD burning process stops at the now earlier [CLIPBOARD OUT] point. You must manually set the [CLIPBOARD OUT] point to the actual end of the moved audio data (usually the REC END point) before burning the CD.

1. Set Paste Destination (AUTO PUNCH IN):

a. Go to the beginning of the program (ABS 0).

b. Press [HOLD/>]. The time is held, “s” flashes.

c. Use the [JOG] dial to enter the desired silence duration (e.g., “03” for 3 seconds).

d. Press [STORE]. “Hit Any Memory Keys!” appears.

e. Press [AUTO PUNCH IN]. The display shows the entered time (e.g., 00m03s00f00sf) is now the Auto Punch In point.

2. Perform Move & Paste:

a. Press [EDIT] and select “Move Clip?”.

b. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for tracks 1 and 2 (they flash red).

c. Press [ENTER/YES]. “Move Paste?” appears.

d. Press [ENTER/YES] again. “Repeat=01” and “Sure?” appear.

e. Press [ENTER/YES] again. The data is moved, starting at the AUTO PUNCH IN point (00m 03s). “Completed!” appears.

3. Correct CLIPBOARD OUT Point:

a. While stopped, press [F FWD] while holding [STOP] to locate the REC END point.

b. Press [STORE], then press [CLIPBOARD OUT]. The REC END point is now registered as the CLIPBOARD OUT point.

You now have a 3-second silence at the start, and the CLIPBOARD OUT point is correctly set for CD burning.

1. Ensure the unit is stopped.

2. Press the [CLIPBOARD IN] key. The currently registered CLIPBOARD IN time (the original start of the mixdown) is displayed, with the “second” field flashing.

3. Use the [HOLD/>] or [REWIND]/[F FWD] keys to select the desired time field (e.g., seconds) if needed.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to enter a new time value that is later than the original start time, corresponding to the desired start point after the silence (e.g., if the mixdown started at 00M 10S and you want 3 seconds silence, enter “07” for the seconds field to make it 00M 07S).

5. Press the [STORE] key, followed immediately by the [CLIPBOARD IN] key.

The new, later time is registered as the CLIPBOARD IN point, effectively creating a silent gap between the original start and the new CLIPBOARD IN point when burning a CD.

Connecting:

1. Connect the sound sources to be recorded to [INPUT] A, B, C, and D.

Preparations:

1. Press [INPUT SEL] (Orange flashing).

2. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for ch9-ch12 until they flash ORANGE (ch9-12 -> INPUT).

3. Press [BUSS-SOURCE] (Green flashing).

4. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for ch1-ch4 (playback source) AND ch9-ch12 (input source) so they are selected (lit).

5. Press [BUSS-REC TRK] (Red flashing).

6. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for ch7 and ch8 so they flash RED (REC destination tracks).

7. Press [EXIT/NO] to return to Normal Display.

8. Set faders for ch1-4, ch7&8, and ch9-12, plus the master fader, to “0”.

9. Press [RECORD] to enter input monitor mode (Red flashing).

10. Set PAN for monitoring tracks ch7 (LEFT) and ch8 (RIGHT).

11. Adjust faders, PAN, EQ, and effects for source channels (ch1-4 and ch9-12) to create the desired mix. Signals panned left in the mix go to track 7, right go to track 8, center go to both.

Record:

1. Start recording according to basic BUSS RECORD instructions (usually PLAY+RECORD).

1. Press the [BUSS-REC TRK] key. The REC BUSS Master Level display appears.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to adjust the level (default is “80”). The level is shown numerically and on the meter during recording.

3. Press the [EXIT/NO] key to return to the Normal Display.

Preparations:

1. Press [INPUT SEL] (Orange flashing).

2. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for ch9-ch16 until they flash GREEN (ch9-16 = TRACK).

3. Press [BUSS SOURCE] (Green flashing).

4. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for ch1-ch14 so they are selected (lit) as the source tracks.

5. Press [BUSS-REC TRK] (Red flashing).

6. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for ch15 and ch16 so they flash RED (REC destination tracks).

7. Press [EXIT/NO] to return to Normal Display.

8. Press [RECORD] to enter input monitor mode (Red flashing).

9. Set the ch15/16 fader for monitoring. Set ch15 PAN to LEFT (L) and ch16 PAN to RIGHT (R).

10. Adjust faders, PAN, EQ, and effects for the source channels (ch1-14) to create the desired stereo mix. Signals panned left go to track 15, right go to track 16, center go to both.

Record:

1. Press the [PLAY] key while the [RECORD] key is depressed to start recording.

1. Enter SETUP mode ([SETUP] key while stopped).

2. Select “Signature Set” using [JOG] dial, press [ENTER/YES]. Set the desired beat/time signature. Press [EXIT/NO].

3. Select “Tempo Set” using [JOG] dial, press [ENTER/YES]. Set the desired tempo. Press [EXIT/NO].

Note: Default is 4/4 beat, 120 tempo. These steps are only needed if defaults need changing. Refer to specific manual pages for detailed setting procedures.

1. Enter SETUP mode ([SETUP] key while stopped).

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select the “Click?” menu (Metronome Function Setting) and press [ENTER/YES]. The current setting (On or Off) flashes.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” (flashing) and press [ENTER/YES].

4. Press [EXIT/NO] twice to exit SETUP mode.

Caution: Turn the metronome OFF via SETUP when no longer needed, as it prevents recording/playback on track 16 while ON.

Press the [DISP SEL] key while the [SHIFT] key is depressed. This cycles through the time base displays (ABS, MTC, BAR/BEAT/CLK). Stop when BAR/BEAT/CLK is shown.

1. Ensure the metronome function is ON in SETUP.

2. Ensure channel 16 is set to “TRK” (Track) mode using the [INPUT SEL] key (check display showing TRK for ch16).

3. Press the [PLAY] key.

4. Turn up the master fader and the channel 16 fader to “0”.

5. Use the [PHONES] knob or [MON OUT] knob to adjust monitoring volume.

The metronome click sound level appears on the ch16 meter and should be audible through headphones/monitors. The ch16 fader adjusts the output level.

No. As long as the metronome function is set to ON in the SETUP menu, it is not possible to record onto track 16, and any sounds already recorded on track 16 cannot be played back.

1. Connect the digital output (S/P DIF optical or adat optical) of the external device to the [DATA IN] connector on the VF160.

2. Ensure the external device is outputting a 44.1kHz/16bit digital signal.

3. Select the program on the VF160 you want to record to.

4. In the VF160 SETUP menu, go to “Digital In” and select either “SPDIF” or “adat” depending on your source. For SPDIF, L goes to Trk 1, R to Trk 2. For adat, ch1-8 go to Trk 1-8 respectively.

5. Exit SETUP mode. Check that “S/PDIF” or “adat” indicator lights up (not flashing) on the Normal Display.

6. Select the track(s) for recording using DIRECT RECORD (press [DIRECT-REC TRK], then [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for the track(s) corresponding to the digital input, e.g., Trk 1 & 2 for SPDIF).

7. Turn up the corresponding channel fader(s) and master fader to “0” for monitoring.

8. Press [PLAY] on the VF160 while holding [RECORD] depressed, and simultaneously start playback on the external digital device.

9. Monitor the sound using [PHONES] or [MON OUT]. No input level adjustment is needed on the VF160.

10. Press [STOP] on both devices when finished.

These indicators light up solid when a proper digital signal (adat or S/P DIF respectively) is being received at the [DATA IN] connector and the VF160’s “Digital In” setting in SETUP matches the incoming signal type.

If either indicator is flashing, it means the incoming digital signal is incorrect (e.g., wrong format, wrong sample rate, no signal, bad connection) or doesn’t match the VF160’s “Digital In” setting.

Yes. If tracks are assigned for digital recording via the “Digital In” setting (e.g., Trk 1&2 for S/P DIF, or Trk 1-8 for adat), the remaining tracks not assigned for digital input can record analog signals simultaneously, provided you are using the DIRECT RECORD method.

Connections:

1. Connect the adat output of an 8-channel device (like Fostex VC-8 or VM88) to the VF160 [DATA IN] jack.

2. Connect 8 analog sound sources to the VF160 [INPUT] jacks A through H.

Setup & Preparation:

1. Set the external device (VC-8/VM88) to output adat digital signals.

2. On the VF160, set “Digital In” in SETUP mode to “adat”.

3. Press [INPUT SEL] and ensure channels 9-16 are set to “TRK” (not “IN”).

4. Press [DIRECT-REC TRK].

5. Press [CH STATUS/CH SEL] for all channels 1 through 16 so all tracks are REC READY (flashing red).

6. Press [EXIT/NO]. Check that “adat” indicator is lit solid.

7. Set the master fader to “0”.

8. Press [RECORD] to enter input monitor.

9. Adjust monitor levels: Turn up ch1-8 faders to monitor adat inputs. Turn up ch9-16 faders and adjust [TRIM] A-H for the analog inputs.

Record:

1. Press [PLAY] while holding [RECORD] depressed. Recording starts on all 16 tracks (adat on 1-8, analog on 9-16).

In this system, the VF160 acts as the master tempo source. It generates MIDI clock signals and song position pointer data based on its internal tempo map (set via Signature and Tempo settings in SETUP). This MIDI data is sent from the VF160’s MIDI OUT port to the MIDI IN port of a hardware MIDI sequencer, which must be set to external sync mode (slave to MIDI clock). When the VF160 plays or records, the sequencer synchronizes its playback position and tempo to the VF160.

1. Set the desired meter (time signature) in SETUP -> “Time Signature Setting”.

2. Set the desired tempo in SETUP -> “Tempo Setting”.

3. Set the MIDI output type in SETUP -> “MIDI sync signal output setting” to “CLK” (Clock).

4. Optionally, set SETUP -> “Metronome setting” to “On” if you want to hear the click.

5. Change the time base display to BAR/BEAT/CLK using SHIFT + [DISP SEL].

During recording or playback on the VF160:

1. Observe the time base display (BAR/BEAT/CLK) on the VF160.

2. Observe the corresponding travel position (BAR/BEAT/CLK) on the synchronized MIDI sequencer.

Confirm that both displays match and progress together. If sync is not achieved, re-check connections and settings on both the VF160 and the sequencer.

Note: Due to the VF160’s ABS 0 position being “-002BAR/1BEAT/00CLK”, sync should be fully established by the time playback reaches the first bar when starting from ABS 0.

In this setup, the VF160 acts as the master controller and timecode source.

• MTC Sync: The VF160 generates MIDI Time Code (MTC) based on its absolute time (ABS) plus any configured offset. This MTC signal is sent from the VF160’s MIDI OUT to the MIDI IN of a computer running sequence software (set to external MTC sync). The software synchronizes its timeline to the incoming MTC.

• MMC Control: The computer (sequence software) sends MIDI Machine Control (MMC) commands (like PLAY, STOP, LOCATE) from its MIDI OUT to the VF160’s MIDI IN. The VF160 responds to these commands, allowing the computer to control its transport functions.

This allows synchronized playback/recording between the VF160 and the computer, with the computer controlling the transport.

1. In SETUP, set “MIDI sync signal output setting” to “MTC”.

2. In SETUP, set “MTC offset time setting” to define a time offset if needed.

3. In SETUP, set “MTC offset mode setting” to choose whether the offset applies from ABS 0 (Absolute) or from the first bar (Bar).

4. In SETUP, set “MTC Frame rate setting” to match the frame rate expected by the sequence software.

5. In SETUP, set “MIDI device ID setting” to match the device ID the sequence software will use to send MMC commands to the VF160 (unless the software uses “7F” for All Devices).

6. Press SHIFT + [DISP SEL] to change the time base display to MTC.

• Offset mode: For ABS: MTC output starts from the set offset time when playback begins at ABS 0. The sequence software’s tune start time should be set about 3 seconds *after* the VF160’s MTC offset time to allow the software time to lock sync. Starting playback from ABS 0 will achieve sync by the first bar.

• Offset mode: For BAR: MTC output starts from the set offset time when playback reaches the first bar (001BAR/1BEAT/00CLK). This mode uses the two bars before the first bar (due to ABS 0 being at -002BAR) to achieve sync, so the MTC offset time can typically match the tune start time in the software. This mode is effective when using MTC alongside MIDI clock, or when controlling the VF160 using BAR/BEAT/CLK timebase.

1. MTC Sync: During recording or playback, check that the MTC time displayed on the VF160 matches the MTC time displayed in the sequence software and that they progress together.

2. MMC Control: Send MMC commands (PLAY, STOP, LOCATE) from the sequence software to the VF160. Check that the VF160 responds correctly to these commands. The “MIDI” indicator in the VF160 display should light up briefly (approx. 40ms) when a correct MMC command is received.

In this configuration, external MIDI equipment (like a computer with sequence software) acts as the master timecode source, sending MTC to the VF160’s MIDI IN port. The VF160 synchronizes its transport (playback speed and position) to the incoming MTC, effectively becoming a slave device. The VF160’s internal tempo map is ignored in this mode.

1. In SETUP, set “MTC Frame rate setting” to match the frame rate being sent by the master device.

2. In SETUP, set “MTC offset mode setting” (ABS or BAR) based on how you want to interpret the incoming MTC relative to the VF160’s timeline.

3. In SETUP, set “MTC offset time setting” if you need to apply a time offset between the master MTC and the VF160’s playback position.

4. In SETUP, set “Slave mode setting” to “On”.

5. In SETUP, set “Slave type setting” usually to “Vari” (Variable pitch control to maintain sync) or potentially “Free” in specific digital output scenarios.

6. Press SHIFT + [DISP SEL] to change the time base display to MTC.

The relationship between the start time of the tune set in the master sequence software and the MTC offset settings on the VF160 needs careful consideration:

• Offset mode: For ABS: The VF160 will try to lock to the incoming MTC. Because it cannot lock instantly, the master device (sequencer) should be started with a preroll (started playing from a point *before* the actual desired start time). Set the MTC offset time on the VF160 approximately three seconds *before* the actual tune start time programmed in the sequencer. This allows the VF160 time to achieve chase lock by the time the actual tune start point is reached.

• Offset mode: For BAR/BEAT: The VF160 interprets the incoming MTC relative to its BAR/BEAT structure. Because the VF160’s ABS 0 corresponds to -002 BAR, the two bars of lead-in time are already accounted for. You can typically set the MTC offset time on the VF160 to match the tune start time set in the sequencer, as the preroll time is inherently handled by the BAR mode interpretation.

1. Start playback on the master sequence software.

2. Observe the VF160 display. When chase lock is achieved, “CHASE” and “MTC” will light up solidly.

3. Check that the MTC time displayed on the VF160 matches the MTC time being output by the sequence software and that they progress together.

4. When the sequence software stops, MTC is interrupted, the VF160 stops, and “CHASE” changes from lit to blinking.

5. During FF/REW on the sequence software, the VF160 remains stopped but will immediately chase lock upon starting playback again.

Normally, with Slave Type set to “Vari”, the VF160 uses variable pitch to follow the master MTC. However, if the digital input (SETUP -> “Setup of digital input”) is set to “SPDIF” or “adat”, the VF160 prioritizes locking to the incoming digital signal’s word clock (“Word clock external sync operation”). It will still initially follow the MTC using vari-pitch, but upon achieving lock, it will switch to external word clock sync from the digital input signal, and vari-pitch control based on MTC will cease.

• Vari: The VF160 constantly adjusts its playback speed (variable pitch) to match the incoming MTC from the master. While this ensures tight sync, the varying speed can make the VF160’s digital output unstable or unusable for external digital devices that require a constant clock rate.

• Free: After initially achieving chase lock with the master MTC, the VF160 switches to running on its own stable internal clock. It only re-synchronizes (re-chases) if the MTC drift between master and slave exceeds 10 frames. This provides a stable digital output signal suitable for external devices but sacrifices continuous tight sync; minor drifts within the 10-frame window are tolerated. During re-chase, sound output is muted, and the digital signal is interrupted briefly.

The VF160 can only achieve and maintain chase lock via MTC if the speed difference between the incoming MTC from the master and the VF160’s internal clock is within +/- 5.6%. If the master’s speed drifts outside this range, chase lock will fail. It’s advised to let the VF160 “learn” the master’s speed by entering PLAY mode before recording, especially if the speed difference is large, as this helps achieve faster locking in subsequent attempts.

Adat Mixer Mode is essentially an “input monitor for all tracks” mode on the VF160. It’s designed primarily for use with a computer equipped with an adat sound card. In this mode, the VF160 functions simultaneously as an A/D converter for analog inputs, a monitor mixer for audio tracks coming from the computer via adat, and a monitor mixer for other connected sources like MIDI sound modules.

In the provided example system, the VF160 acts as:

• A monitor mixer for audio tracks 1-8 coming from the personal computer via the adat IN connection (controlled by channel faders 1-8).

• An A/D converter for analog instruments connected to inputs 7 and 8, sending these signals digitally to the computer via the adat OUT connection.

• A monitor mixer for MIDI sound sources connected to inputs 1 through 6 (controlled by channel faders 9 through 14).

No, Adat Mixer Mode can only be used via DIRECT recording. It cannot be used with BUSS recording.

If you attempt to activate Adat Mixer Mode (SHIFT + INPUT SEL) while the VF160 is set to BUSS recording mode, the display will show “Rec Mode Change!” with a flashing “Sure?”. If you press [ENTER/YES], the recording mode will automatically change to DIRECT recording, and Adat Mixer Mode will be activated. If you press [EXIT/NO], Adat Mixer Mode activation will be canceled, and the recording mode will remain as BUSS.

No. Tracks that are set to “IN (input)” via the INPUT SEL selection (“IN” or “TRK”) will not be in input monitor mode when Adat Mixer Mode is active.

1. In the SETUP menu, set both the “Digital Input” and “Digital Output” settings to “adat”.

2. Return to the Normal display.

3. Press the [INPUT SEL] key while holding down the [SHIFT] key. The display will indicate “ADAT Mixer Mode” is active (e.g., showing “ADAT” below the program name).

1. Connect the VF160 [DATA OUT] (adat) to the adat IN connector on the computer’s sound card.

2. Connect the VF160 [DATA IN] (adat) to the adat OUT connector on the computer’s sound card.

3. Connect the computer’s MIDI OUT to the MIDI IN of the MIDI sound source device AND to the MIDI IN of the VF160.

4. Connect the audio outputs of the MIDI sound source device to VF160 inputs 1 through 6.

5. Connect analog instruments (mic, guitar, etc.) to VF160 inputs 7 and 8.

6. Connect the VF160 [MIDI OUT] connector to the computer’s [MIDI IN] connector (to send MTC from VF160 to computer).

You can save or load song data using:

• S/PDIF digital signal (to/from DAT, etc.)

• adat digital signal (to/from ADAT recorder, interface, etc.)

• SCSI device (MO, Zip, CD-RW using FDMS-3 or WAV format)

• Fostex optional CD-RW drive (Model CD-1A using FDMS-3 format or creating CD-DA)

Data is saved/loaded one program at a time. Audio data (Real + Additional tracks, total 24) is transferred in blocks of 2 tracks. Saving all 24 tracks takes approximately 12 times the recorded length of the program (ABS 0 to REC END). A 5-second pilot signal precedes the data transfer. Loading uses the same 2-track block transfer method.

Data is saved/loaded one program at a time. Audio data (Real + Additional tracks, total 24) is transferred in blocks of 8 tracks. Saving all 24 tracks takes approximately 3 times the recorded length of the program (ABS 0 to REC END). A 5-second pilot signal precedes the data transfer. Loading uses the same 8-track block transfer method.

Data is saved/loaded one program at a time using the FDMS-3 format or as individual tracks using the WAV format (to/from DOS formatted SCSI disks, except CD-RW/CD-R).

When using FDMS-3 or saving all tracks as WAV, all audio data (Real + Additional, tracks 1-24) is transferred simultaneously, making it much faster than S/PDIF or adat. No pilot tone is recorded. If data exceeds the space on one disk, it can span multiple disks (up to 99).

Yes, scene memories and scene event memories can be saved or loaded when using an FDMS-3 formatted SCSI disk. They cannot be saved/loaded when using the WAV format.

The following can be saved/loaded as part of the song data (depending on the method):

• Memory data: CLIPBOARD IN/OUT, AUTO RTN START/END, AUTO PUNCH IN/OUT points. Locate data (No. 00-99) is only available with SCSI save/load.

• Timebase: Current timebase setting (ABS, MTC, or BAR/BEAT/CLK).

• SETUP mode settings: Bar/beat, tempo, metronome on/off, preroll time, MIDI sync output signal, MTC offset time, MTC offset mode, REC protect, slave mode on/off, slave type settings.

The following settings are NOT saved or loaded as part of the song data:

• On/off settings for Auto play mode and Auto return mode.

• Varipitch on/off setting and pitch data.

• Specific SETUP mode settings: DIGITAL IN, DIGITAL OUT, bar/beat resolution on/off, and device ID.

You can only save to or load from external digital machines that can record and play back 16 bit, 44.1 kHz linear digital audio data using either the S/PDIF or adat format.

When saving data using S/PDIF or adat, only the data recorded within the time duration defined by the Real tracks (from ABS 0 to the REC END point of the longest Real track) is saved. If Additional tracks contain data that extends beyond the REC END point of the Real tracks, that extra data on the Additional tracks will NOT be saved.

For example, if Real tracks end at 7 minutes and Additional tracks end at 10 minutes, only the data from 0 to 7 minutes will be saved for ALL tracks (Real and Additional). The data on Additional tracks from 7 to 10 minutes will be lost in the saved file.

1. Connect the VF160 [DIGITAL/DATA OUT] jack to the digital input of the external recorder (DAT or adat).

2. Set up the external recorder: Set sampling frequency to 44.1 kHz and input source to digital.

3. On the VF160, press [SETUP] to enter Setup mode.

4. Select “Save PGM” using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

5. Select “OPT” using the [REWIND] key and press [ENTER/YES].

6. Select “SPDIF” or “adat” using the [REWIND]/[F FWD] keys and press [ENTER/YES].

7. Select the Source Program to save using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

8. Check/edit the “Save Length” if necessary (defaults to program REC END) and press [ENTER/YES].

9. Select the Track Area to save (e.g., “From 1 To 24”) using [REWIND]/[F FWD] and [JOG] dial, then press [ENTER/YES].

10. The confirmation screen “Rec Start Recorder!” appears. Start recording on the external digital recorder.

11. Immediately press [ENTER/YES] on the VF160. The pilot tone transmits, then data saving begins (“Data Saving!”, “Wait Time” counts down).

12. When “Completed!” appears on the VF160, stop the external recorder.

13. Press [EXIT/NO] repeatedly to exit Setup mode.

1. Connect the digital output of the external device (DAT or adat) to the VF160 [DIGITAL/DATA IN] jack.

2. Prepare the external device: Locate the beginning of the pilot signal for the song data to be loaded.

3. On the VF160, press [SETUP] to enter Setup mode.

4. Select “Load PGM” using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

5. Select “OPT” using the [REWIND] key and press [ENTER/YES].

6. Select “SPDIF” or “adat” corresponding to the source device using [REWIND]/[F FWD] keys and press [ENTER/YES].

7. Select the Destination Program number where you want to load the data using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

8. Select the Track Area to load (e.g., “From 1 To 24”) using [REWIND]/[F FWD] and [JOG] dial, then press [ENTER/YES].

9. The confirmation screen “Play Start Player!” appears. Start playback on the external digital device.

10. Immediately press [ENTER/YES] on the VF160. The unit searches for the pilot signal (“Searching…”), then starts loading data (“Data Loading!”).

11. When “Completed!” appears, the loading is finished. Stop the external player.

12. Press [EXIT/NO] repeatedly to exit Setup mode.

1. Connect the digital output (S/PDIF or ADAT) of your external device to the DIGITAL/DATA INPUT of the VF160.

2. Press the [SETUP] key on the VF160 to enter Setup mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Load PGM” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. Use the [REWIND] or [F FWD] key to select “SPDIF” (or “adat”) depending on your connection, and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The display will show the screen for selecting the destination program. Use the [JOG] dial to select an existing program or “New PGM” and press [ENTER/YES].

6. The display will show the screen for selecting tracks. Use the [REWIND] or [F FWD] keys to move between the “From” and “To” fields, and use the [JOG] dial to set the track numbers. Press [ENTER/YES].

7. The display will show “Sure?”. Press [ENTER/YES] again.

8. The display shows “Play Start Player!”. Start playback on the external digital device.

9. The VF160 will read the pilot signal and automatically start loading the data. The display shows “Data Loading!” and a countdown timer.

10. When loading is complete, “Completed!” appears on the screen. Stop the external device.

11. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] repeatedly to exit Setup mode.

If you load data to a program in which data is already recorded, the newly loaded data overwrites the current data track by track. Consequently, on each overwritten track, the loaded data becomes valid while the current data is erased.

This warning message appears if the VF160 does not lock to the digital signal from the external device or when loading copyrighted material via digital inputs (S/PDIF, ADAT, CD-DA). It indicates that the VF160 is not receiving a correct signal or reminds the user of copyright responsibilities.

Message text:

Warning

You are responsible for use of this digital device.

Be sure to abide by the copyright conditions of the source material.

Press “Enter/Yes” key if you agree with the above.

Check cable connections and digital output settings of the external device if the signal is not locking. Ensure you have the rights to copy the material being loaded.

Destination Program:

After selecting the digital source (SPDIF or adat) in the “Load PGM” menu, the screen for selecting the destination program appears. A program number will flash.

Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired program number (P01-P99) or “New PGM” to create a new program for the loaded data.

Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the destination program.

Tracks:

After confirming the destination program, the screen for selecting tracks appears. The “From” field flashes initially.

Use the [REWIND] or [F FWD] key to switch the flashing field between “From” and “To”.

Use the [JOG] dial to set the track number for the flashing field. Available ranges are:

From: 1, 9, or 17

To: 8, 16, or 24

Example: Selecting “From 1 To 24” will load data for all tracks.

Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the track selection.

During data loading via digital input:

S/PDIF: The indicators on [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for channels 1 and 2 flash. The input levels are displayed by level meters 1 and 2.

ADAT: The indicators on [CH STATUS/CH SEL] keys for channels 1 through 8 flash. The input levels are displayed by level meters 1 and 8.

This indicates that data is being actively loaded to those corresponding tracks.

If you quit loading before completing, the loaded data is invalid. You cannot abort load operations using SCSI before completion. For S/PDIF or ADAT loads, you can press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP], but any partially loaded data will be invalid.

To cancel an operation or to return to the previous screen before pressing the [ENTER/YES] key, press the [EXIT/NO] key (or the [STOP] key). Each press of the key returns to the previous screen and finally exits the Setup mode.

Connect the VF160’s SCSI connector (half pitch 50-pin type for Macintosh) to the SCSI port on your external SCSI device (MO drive, Zip drive, etc.) using an appropriate SCSI cable.

• Make connection with the power turned off for both the VF160 and the SCSI device.

• You can connect only one SCSI device via the SCSI connector of the VF160.

• When connecting an external SCSI device, insert a SCSI terminator to the other (unused) SCSI connector on the device. Or, if the device provides a switch for SCSI termination, set it to ON.

• There is no limitation for the ID number of the backup SCSI device. The VF160 automatically recognizes the device as a backup SCSI device.

• You must format the disk used with the backup SCSI device after connecting the device.

No, a write-protected disk cannot be used for formatting or saving data via the SCSI interface. Release the protection before using.

1. Connect the SCSI device to the VF160 and turn on both machines.

2. Insert a removable disk (MO, zip) into the SCSI device. Make sure it is not write-protected.

3. Press the [SETUP] key on the VF160 to enter Setup mode.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Disk Format” and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The “Drive Select” screen appears with “IDE” flashing. Use the [F FWD] key to make “SCSI” flash and press [ENTER/YES].

6. The display shows the name of the connected SCSI device and “Backup Format 16bit”, with “Sure?” flashing.

7. While holding down the [RECORD] key, press the [ENTER/YES] key.

8. The VF160 starts formatting the disk. When formatting is completed, “Completed!” appears on the screen.

9. Press the [EXIT/NO] key (or the [STOP] key) repeatedly until exiting Setup mode.

Note: This formats the disk in the FDMS-3 backup format. To format a disk for WAV file use (DOS format), use a personal computer.

1. Ensure a formatted (usually FDMS-3 for backup) SCSI disk is inserted in the connected and powered-on SCSI drive.

2. Press the [SETUP] key to enter Setup mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Save PGM” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The “Save Device Select” screen appears. Use the [REWIND] or [F FWD] key to select “SCSI” and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The “Backup Mode Select” screen appears. Select “FDMS 3” (or “WAV” if saving WAV files to a DOS-formatted disk) and press [ENTER/YES]. (This example assumes FDMS 3).

6. The “Source PGM Select” screen appears. Use the [JOG] dial to select the program (P01-P99) you want to save. The display shows the data size (e.g., “68 MB” or “2 Disks 130 MB”).

7. Press [ENTER/YES].

8. The “Destn PGM Select” screen appears, usually showing the next available backup number (e.g., “B01: New PGM”). “Sure?” flashes.

9. Press [ENTER/YES] to start saving the data.

10. The display shows “Data Saving! Pxx>>Bxx” and the remaining data size counts down.

11. If the data fits on one disk, “Save Completed!” appears when finished. If it requires multiple disks, the first disk is ejected when full, and “Insert Disk2!” appears. Insert the next disk, and saving resumes automatically.

12. Once all data is saved, “Save Completed!” appears. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit Setup mode.

When using the “Save PGM” menu:

Output signal/device options:

• OPT (adat or S/PDIF)

• SCSI

• IDE (for internal drive or optional CD-1A)

Program options:

• P01 to P99 (Select an individual Program from the internal drive)

Track options:

• When using S/PDIF or adat: Tracks 1-8, 1-16, 1-24, 9-16, 9-24, or 17-24.

• When using a SCSI disk (FDMS-3 format): All tracks (1-24) are selected automatically.

• When using a SCSI disk (WAV file format): You can select tracks individually.

After selecting “SCSI” as the save device in the “Save PGM” menu and pressing [ENTER/YES], the “Backup Mode Select” screen appears. “FDMS 3” or “WAV” will be flashing.

Use the [REWIND] or [F FWD] key to switch between “FDMS 3” (Fostex backup format) and “WAV” (for saving to a DOS-formatted disk).

Press [ENTER/YES] when the desired mode is flashing.

Note: You can only select WAV if a DOS-formatted disk is inserted. If you select WAV with an FDMS-3 formatted disk, you will get a “Warning Illegal Disk!” message.

In the “Save PGM SCSI” > “Source PGM Select” screen:

• Vacant program selected: “OMB” (Zero Megabytes) is shown.

• Program fits on one disk: The program number/title flashes, and the data size in Megabytes (e.g., “68 MB”) is shown.

• Program requires multiple disks: The program number/title flashes, and the required number of disks and total data size are shown (e.g., “2Disks 130 MB”).

When saving a program that requires more than one SCSI disk, the VF160 automatically saves data until the first disk is full. At that point, the first disk is ejected, and the display flashes “Insert Disk2!”.

Insert the second formatted backup disk into the SCSI drive. The VF160 will automatically resume the saving process onto the second disk.

If more than two disks are required, repeat this process: when a disk becomes full, it will be ejected, and the display will prompt for the next disk number (e.g., “Insert Disk3!”).

Label your disks in order (Disk 1, Disk 2, etc.) to ensure correct loading later.

No, you cannot abort the save operation using SCSI (FDMS-3 or WAV format) before it is completed, unlike saving via S/PDIF or ADAT. Especially during a multi-disk save, pressing [EXIT/NO] may interrupt the process incorrectly, requiring you to redo the entire save operation from the beginning with the first disk.

If you proceed through the “Save PGM SCSI” steps (selecting SCSI device, backup mode FDMS 3) and insert an unformatted disk, the VF160 will recognize it as “Unformat”. The display will show “Curr.FM:Unformat” and “Sure?”.

To format the disk and proceed with saving, hold down the [RECORD] key and press [ENTER/YES]. The disk will be formatted in the FDMS-3 backup format, and then the display will proceed to the “Destn PGM Select” screen to continue the save operation.

When you reach the “Destn PGM Select” screen during the “Save PGM SCSI” process, if the disk already contains backup data, you can use the [JOG] dial to select:

• An existing backup program (e.g., B01, B02…): If you select an existing program and press [ENTER/YES] (confirming “Sure?”), the new data will overwrite the selected backup program. The original data in that backup slot will be erased.

• “New PGM”: If you select “New PGM” and press [ENTER/YES] (confirming “Sure?”), the data will be saved to a newly created backup program slot (e.g., the next available Bxx number), leaving other existing programs unchanged (provided there is enough disk space).

• “Eject”: Allows you to eject the disk without saving.

When you select “New PGM” in the “Destn PGM Select” screen, the available disk space is shown (e.g., “10 kB”). If you press [ENTER/YES] and there isn’t enough space for the program you are trying to save, “Disk Full!” will be shown at the top of the screen, and the save operation cannot be executed. You cannot proceed by pressing [ENTER/YES] again.

In this situation, you can either:

1. Select an existing backup program on the disk to overwrite (erasing its current contents).

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Eject”, press [ENTER/YES] to cancel the save operation, and use a different disk with sufficient space.

If you attempt to save data (via “Save PGM SCSI”) to a disk formatted by a different type of digital recorder, after selecting the SCSI device and backup mode, the VF160 will display “Wrong Disk!”. This will be followed by the screen prompting you to format the disk (“Curr.FM:Unformat Sure?”).

You can either format the disk (losing its current contents) by holding [RECORD] and pressing [ENTER/YES], or cancel the operation by selecting “Eject” with the [JOG] dial and pressing [ENTER/YES].

If you are saving a program that requires multiple disks, and you insert a disk (e.g., Disk 1) that already contains saved backup data, when you reach step 6 (Source PGM Select) and confirm the program, the “Destn PGM Select” screen will allow you to select an existing backup program number (e.g., B01) using the [JOG] dial.

If you select an existing backup program (instead of “New PGM”) and press [ENTER/YES], the display will show “Delete All” and “Sure?”.

Pressing [ENTER/YES] again will erase ALL existing backup data on the inserted disk (and presumably subsequent disks in the set if applicable) and then the save operation for the new program will begin.

1. Ensure the SCSI disk containing the backup data (FDMS-3 format) is inserted in the connected and powered-on SCSI drive.

2. Press the [SETUP] key to enter Setup mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Load PGM” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The “Load Device Select” screen appears. Use the [REWIND] or [F FWD] key to select “SCSI” and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The “Source PGM Select” screen appears. A backup program number (e.g., “B01”) flashes. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired backup program you want to load. The data size is also shown.

6. Press [ENTER/YES].

7. The “Destn PGM Select” screen appears. By default, “New PGM” is selected. You can use the [JOG] dial to select an existing program (P01-P99) on the internal drive if you wish to overwrite it, or leave “New PGM” selected to load the data into a new program slot.

8. Press [ENTER/YES] (confirming “Sure?” if “New PGM” was selected).

9. The data load begins. The display shows “Data Loading! Bxx>>Pxx” and the remaining data size counts down.

10. When loading is complete, “Load Completed!” appears. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit Setup mode.

When using the “Load PGM” menu with a SCSI device:

Input signal/device options: SCSI

Program options (Source on SCSI): Select the desired backup program (e.g., B01, B02…).

Program options (Destination on IDE): P01 to P99 (overwrite existing) or New PGM (load to new slot).

Track options:

• When loading from an FDMS-3 formatted disk: All tracks (1-24) are loaded automatically.

• When loading a WAV file from a DOS-formatted disk: You can select tracks individually.

After selecting “SCSI” as the load device in the “Load PGM” menu, the “Source PGM Select” screen appears. A backup program number (e.g., “B01”) will flash.

Use the [JOG] dial to rotate through the available backup programs stored on the SCSI disk. The data size for the selected program is displayed.

You can also select “Eject” using the [JOG] dial to remove the disk if needed.

Once the desired backup program is flashing, press [ENTER/YES] to proceed.

When you load data from a SCSI backup disk to an existing program on the internal drive (by selecting P01-P99 instead of “New PGM” in the “Destn PGM Select” screen), the backup data overwrites the existing data in that program slot on the internal drive. The original data in that internal program slot is erased and replaced by the loaded data.

If the internal drive disk (the destination disk for loading data) does not have enough available space to accept the data being loaded from the SCSI disk, the display will show “Disk Full!”. The load operation will be cancelled, and the display will return to the previous screen (likely the “Source PGM Select” screen for the SCSI disk).

No, you cannot abort the load operation using SCSI before it is completed, unlike the load operation using S/PDIF or ADAT signal.

1. Insert the first disk (Disk-1) of the backup set into the connected and powered-on SCSI drive.

2. Press [SETUP] to enter Setup mode.

3. Select “Load PGM”, then select “SCSI” as the device.

4. The “Source PGM Select” screen appears. Select the backup program number (e.g., B01). The display will indicate it’s part of a multi-disk set (e.g., “Disk1”) and show the total data size.

5. Press [ENTER/YES].

6. The “Destn PGM Select” screen appears. Select “New PGM” (or an existing program to overwrite) and press [ENTER/YES] (confirming “Sure?”).

7. The data load from Disk-1 begins (“Data Loading! B01>>Pxx Disk1”).

8. When the data load from Disk-1 is complete, Disk-1 is automatically ejected, and the display shows “Insert Disk2”.

9. Insert Disk-2 into the SCSI drive. The VF160 automatically resumes loading data from Disk-2.

10. Repeat step 9 if more disks are part of the set (the display will prompt for “Insert Disk3”, etc.).

11. When loading from the final disk is complete, “Load Completed!” appears. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit Setup mode.

If you insert the disks out of order (e.g., inserting Disk-2 when the VF160 expects Disk-1), the VF160 will automatically recognize that the wrong disk is set. The display will show “Wrong Disk”, followed by “Illegal No!”, and the disk will be automatically ejected. The display will then show the prompt for the correct disk (e.g., “Insert Disk1”).

Yes, in addition to the FDMS-3 backup format, you can save song data to, or load data from, a SCSI disk using the WAV file format (RIFF WAVE). This allows you to handle song data on a personal computer using music software.

Saving and loading WAV files can only be done using a disk that is DOS-formatted with FAT16. The VF160 recognizes such disks and enables the WAV file operations. Disks formatted with FAT32 are not recognized.

No, the VF160 cannot DOS-format a disk (FAT16) for saving/loading WAV files. A backup disk intended for WAV file handling must be DOS-formatted with FAT16 using a personal computer in advance.

When a disk larger than 2 GB is DOS-formatted with FAT16, it is typically partitioned at the 2 GB maximum size. The VF160 only recognizes the first partition (up to 2 GB) and does not recognize subsequent partitions. Therefore, the maximum available size of a backup disk for WAV file operations on the VF160 is 2 GB.

• A WAV file saved by the VF160 is recorded in the root directory (the first layer) of the backup disk.

• A WAV file that can be loaded by the VF160 must be located in the root directory on the backup disk.

A WAV file moved from the root directory to another area (e.g., a folder) using a computer cannot be recognized by the VF160.

• WAV files saved by the VF160 are recorded with a file name format of “******##.WAV”.

• WAV files that can be loaded by the VF160 must also have a file name format of “******##.WAV”.

• The first 6 characters “******” correspond to the program Title (editable in the SETUP mode Title Edit screen or via computer).

• The next 2 characters “##” indicate the track number (01 to 24).

• “.WAV” is the required file extension.

The VF160 does not recognize other file names. File names saved by the VF160 are in capital letters, but may appear in small letters on some computers.

1. Ensure a DOS-formatted (FAT16) SCSI disk is inserted in the connected and powered-on SCSI drive.

2. Press [SETUP] to enter Setup mode.

3. Select “Save PGM” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. Select “SCSI” as the device and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The “Backup Mode Select” screen appears. Select “WAV” and press [ENTER/YES].

6. The “Clip Board Export” screen appears. Select “Off” (to save all data) or “On” (to save only between IN/OUT points) using [REWIND]/[F FWD] and press [ENTER/YES]. Default is “Off”.

7. The “Source PGM Select” screen appears. Use the [JOG] dial to select the program to save and press [ENTER/YES].

8. The “Save Track Select” screen appears. Select “All Track” or use the [JOG] dial and [REWIND]/[F FWD] keys to specify a range “From xx To xx”. Press [ENTER/YES].

9. The “Destn WAV Select” screen appears. Use the [JOG] dial to select “New File” or an existing file title (if you intend to overwrite or delete). Press [ENTER/YES] (confirming “Sure?”). (Handle disk space issues as prompted, see hints in PDF).

10. The “Title Edit” screen appears. Edit the 6-character file title using the [JOG] dial and [REWIND]/[F FWD] keys. Press [ENTER/YES].

11. Saving begins. The display shows “Data Saving! P**>>WAV” and remaining data size. If multiple disks are needed, it prompts “Insert Disk*”.

12. When complete, “Save Completed!” appears. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit.

When saving data in WAV format, after selecting “WAV” as the backup mode, you get an option for “Clip Board Export” (On/Off).

• Off (Default): Saves all track data from the beginning (ABS 0) to the end of the recording (REC END).

• On: Saves only the data range between the currently set Clipboard IN point and Clipboard OUT point for the selected tracks.

If you want to save only a specific section of audio as a WAV file, set the Clipboard IN and OUT points first, then choose “On” for this option during the save process.

After selecting the source program in the “Save WAV SCSI” menu, the “Save Track Select” screen appears. Initially, “All Track” flashes.

• To save all tracks (1-24), leave “All Track” selected and press [ENTER/YES].

• To save specific tracks, rotate the [JOG] dial to change the display to “From ** To **”.

• The left “From **” field flashes. Use the [JOG] dial to set the starting track number (01-24).

• Press the [F FWD] key to make the right “To **” field flash.

• Use the [JOG] dial to set the ending track number (must be equal to or greater than the “From” number).

• Example: To save tracks 5 through 12, set “From 05 To 12”. To save only track 2, set “From 02 To 02”.

• Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the track selection.

After selecting the WAV file destination (New File or existing) and confirming, the “Title Edit” screen appears (e.g., “WAV:********”).

A character position will be flashing.

• Use the [JOG] dial to scroll through available characters (A-Z, 0-9, ! # $ % & ‘ ( ) @ ^ _ -) for the flashing position.

• Use the [REWIND] and [F FWD] keys to move the flashing cursor to the desired character position (up to 6 characters).

• Enter the desired 6-character name.

• Note: Lower-case letters are converted to upper-case. Other symbols are converted to “_”.

• Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the file name and start the save operation.

If you enter a 6-character file name in the “Title Edit” screen that duplicates the first 6 characters of an existing WAV file name on the backup disk, after you press [ENTER/YES], the message “Warning! Already Exist” is shown on the screen. The save operation will not be executed. You must go back (using [EXIT/NO]) and change the file name to something unique before you can save the data.

If any file other than those following the “******##.WAV” format, or any folder, is created on the backup disk using a personal computer, the VF160 cannot accurately calculate the available backup disk space. Consequently, a save operation may fail unexpectedly even if there appears to be enough space. Avoid creating non-standard files or folders on disks intended for VF160 WAV backup.

When the VF160 saves data as WAV files, it creates up to 24 individual files (one per track) in the root directory of the DOS-formatted backup disk. The file names follow the pattern “******01.WAV” through “******24.WAV”, where “******” is the 6-character title you specified, and “01” through “24” is the track number.

If a track contains no recorded data, a corresponding WAV file is still created, although its size might be small.

If the save operation requires multiple disks, the files are saved in track number order (1 through 24). The VF160 manages disk changes automatically when a disk becomes full during the saving of a track’s data.

When saving data in WAV format, the resulting file size on the backup disk might be larger than the data size indicated on the VF160’s internal drive. The WAV file size depends on the recorded data conditions for each track, such as the start time, end time, and total data amount.

For example, if a track has recordings from minute 0 to 1 and also from minute 10 to 11, the data size on the internal drive represents 2 minutes of audio. However, the resulting WAV file for that track will span the entire duration from the start of the first recording to the end of the last one, resulting in an 11-minute WAV file length, which increases the file size accordingly.

1. Ensure the DOS-formatted (FAT16) SCSI disk containing the WAV file(s) is inserted in the connected and powered-on SCSI drive.

2. Press the [SETUP] key to enter Setup mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Load PGM” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The “Load Device Select” screen appears. Use the [REWIND] or [F FWD] key to select “SCSI” and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The VF160 recognizes the disk format. The display shows the drive name, “DOS Format”, and then proceeds to the “Source WAV Select” screen.

6. The name (first 6 characters) of a WAV file found on the disk flashes, along with its size. Use the [JOG] dial to scroll through all available WAV files (recognized by their “******##.WAV” names) in the root directory.

7. Select the desired WAV file title you want to load and press [ENTER/YES].

No, the VF160 cannot recognize or load any file names other than those matching the “******##.WAV” format (where ****** are the first 6 title characters and ## is the track number 01-24). A WAV file with a unique 6-character title is recognized as an independent backup file that can be selected for loading.

After selecting the source WAV file title in the “Load WAV SCSI” menu, the “Load Track Select” screen appears. “All” flashes initially.

• To load all tracks (1-24) contained within that WAV file set, leave “All” selected and press [ENTER/YES].

• To load only a specific track, rotate the [JOG] dial. The display changes to show a track number (e.g., “01 Track”). Continue rotating the [JOG] dial to select the desired single track number (01 through 24) you wish to load.

• Press [ENTER/YES] when the desired option (“All” or a specific track number) is displayed.

After selecting the track(s) to load from the WAV file, the “Destn PGM Select” screen appears.

You can use the [JOG] dial to select either:

• An existing program (P01-P99): The display shows the program title and its current data size. Selecting this will overwrite the existing program with the loaded WAV data. “Overwrite?” and “Sure?” will appear upon pressing [ENTER/YES].

• “New PGM”: This will create a new program slot on the internal drive for the loaded WAV data.

Press [ENTER/YES] after making your selection (and confirm “Sure?” if applicable) to start the loading process.

If you select a destination program (either existing or “New PGM”) for the WAV file load, and the internal drive does not have sufficient free space, the size indication on the “Destn PGM Select” screen will show a negative value (e.g., “-*** MB”). If you attempt to proceed, the load will likely fail or be prevented. You should either select a different existing program that can be overwritten or delete unnecessary programs from the internal drive using the “Delete PGM” menu in SETUP mode to free up space before attempting the load again.

When a WAV file is loaded into a program (either new or existing), the title of that destination program on the VF160’s internal drive is replaced with the WAV file name (the first 6 characters of the “******##.WAV” filename).

At any step before the loading process actually starts (i.e., before the “Data Loading!” screen appears), you can press the [EXIT/NO] key or the [STOP] key to go back to the previous screen or eventually exit the Setup mode.

Once the “Data Loading!” screen appears, the operation typically cannot be aborted for SCSI operations (which includes WAV file loading).

The VF160 requires WAV files named “******##.WAV” to be present in the root directory of the DOS-formatted disk. If you delete specific track files (e.g., “******03.WAV”) or move them out of the root directory using a computer, the VF160 will not recognize or load data for those missing or moved tracks when you load the corresponding file title (“******”). Only the tracks whose correctly named WAV files remain in the root directory will be loaded.

If a WAV backup was saved across multiple disks (e.g., tracks 1-12 on Disk 1, tracks 13-24 on Disk 2), you can load them sequentially. First, insert Disk 1 and load the file title (“******”). This will load tracks 1-12 into the destination program. Then, insert Disk 2 and load the same file title (“******”) again into the same destination program. This second load operation will add the data for tracks 13-24, while the previously loaded tracks 1-12 will remain intact. This method allows combining multi-disk WAV sets even after potential computer manipulation, provided the necessary files are present on each disk.

You can change the track assignment by renaming the WAV file on a computer before loading it onto the VF160. The last two digits (“##”) in the “******##.WAV” filename determine the track number it corresponds to.

For example, if you have a file named “ABCDEF01.WAV” (representing track 1 data), you can rename it on a computer to “ABCDEF03.WAV”. When you then load the file “ABCDEF” onto the VF160, the data originally from track 1 will be loaded onto track 3.

You can change the title under which a WAV file set loads by renaming the files on a computer. The first six characters (“******”) in the “******##.WAV” filename determine the title recognized by the VF160.

For example, if your files are named “ABCDEF01.WAV”, “ABCDEF02.WAV”, etc., they will load under the title “ABCDEF”. If you rename them on a computer to “MYSONG01.WAV”, “MYSONG02.WAV”, etc. (using valid characters: A-Z, a-z, 0-9, !#$%&'()@’_=), they will then be recognized and loaded under the new title “MYSONG” on the VF160.

You can use either:

1. An external SCSI-type CD-RW drive unit connected to the VF160’s SCSI port.

2. The Fostex optional internal CD-RW drive (Model CD-1A).

Compatibility with specific external SCSI drives should be confirmed.

Fostex maintains a list of operation-confirmed CD-RW drive units. You can check this list:

• If you have internet access: Visit the Fostex website URL provided in the PDF: (Note: This URL may be outdated).

• If you do not have internet access: Contact your local Fostex distributor.

Fostex does not guarantee operation with drives not on the confirmed list.

• CD-RW (ReWritable) discs: You can save (record) data to the disc multiple times. Each time you save new data, the previously recorded data on the disc is erased and rewritten.

• CD-R (Recordable) discs: You can save (record) data to the disc only once. You cannot save new data to an already recorded CD-R disc. You can, however, load data from a recorded CD-R disc as many times as required.

No, a CD-RW or CD-R disc on which VF160 backup data (FDMS-3 format) is recorded can only be played (loaded) by Fostex machines (like the VF160). Do not attempt to play it on non-Fostex devices, as the drive or system used may be damaged.

• Audio CD on CD-R disc: Yes, an audio CD (CD-DA format) created on a CD-R disc using the VF160 can generally be played by standard audio CD players.

• Audio CD on CD-RW disc: An audio CD made using a CD-RW disc can only be played back by a CD player that explicitly supports CD-RW playback. Conventional CD players that do not support CD-RW playback cannot play these discs.

The speeds are automatically set by the VF160 based on the drive:

• Writing speed (Save/Backup/Audio CD creation): Determined by the CD-RW drive used, but limited to a maximum of 8x speed by the VF160.

• Reading speed (Load): Determined by the CD-RW drive used.

For saving/loading VF160 data (backup or audio CD creation), use CD-R or CD-RW discs that are rated for writing at 4x speed or higher. Do not use discs that can only be written at real-time (1x) or 2x speed.

When saving song data (backup using FDMS-3 format) to a CD-RW/CD-R disc:

• You can only save a single selected program data (e.g., P01) to one disc, regardless of the program’s size (unless it exceeds the disc capacity).

• You cannot save multiple programs onto the same disc, even if there is enough space.

• If a single program’s data is larger than the disc capacity, the VF160 can save it across multiple discs.

The saved data includes song data for all tracks (real and additional) and mixer scene data associated with that program.

Unlike loading from other SCSI devices, data loading from a CD-RW drive always takes place after a “new program” is automatically created on the internal drive (the load destination).

You cannot overwrite an existing program on the internal drive with data loaded from a CD. The newly created program is assigned the next available program number higher than the highest existing program number on the internal drive.

No, unlike other SCSI devices (like MO or Zip drives), you cannot save or load data using the WAV file format with a CD-RW drive connected to the VF160. CD-RW operations are limited to the FDMS-3 backup format and the CD-DA (audio CD) format.

You can make an audio CD (CD-DA format) by recording the sound data from tracks 1 and 2 (stereo mixdown) between the “CLIPBOARD IN point” and “CLIPBOARD OUT point” of a selected program onto a CD-RW or CD-R disc. Use the “Save PGM” menu in SETUP mode and select the “CD-DA” save mode.

You can load a track (material) from an audio CD (commercial or one you created) into a program on the VF160. Use the “Load PGM” menu in SETUP mode and select the “CD-DA” load mode. The audio data is loaded into a “new program” automatically created by the unit, similar to how backup data is loaded from CD. The unit never overwrites an existing program when loading from an audio CD.

• Use a high-impedance SCSI cable for connection (if using an external SCSI drive). Keep the cable length as short as possible.

• Only a single SCSI device can be connected to the VF160 SCSI port.

• Attach an active terminator to the CD-RW drive used (if external). An inactive terminator may cause save/load errors.

• When a CD-RW drive connected to the VF160 is turned on, only the eject switch of the drive can be used. Other controls on the drive (like level control or play button) are not effective.

• Do not perform any VF160 key operations until the access process to the CD-RW/CD-R disc is completed.

1. Turn on the VF160 and the connected CD-RW drive. Insert a blank CD-R or a CD-RW disc.

2. Press [SETUP] to enter Setup mode.

3. Select “Save PGM” using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

4. Select the correct device (“IDE” for optional internal drive, “SCSI” for external) using [REWIND]/[F FWD] and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The “Mode Select” screen appears. “BkUp” (Backup) should be flashing. Press [ENTER/YES].

6. The “Source PGM Select” screen appears. Use the [JOG] dial to select the program (P01-P99) you want to back up. The required disc space (e.g., OMB, 130MB, or 2 Disks 130MB) is shown. Press [ENTER/YES].

7. The “Destn PGM Select” screen appears, showing the target backup number (e.g., “B01”). Press [ENTER/YES]. (If the disc is not empty, you may be prompted to erase first – see Hint 1).

8. Saving starts. The display shows “Data Saving! P**>>B01” and counts down the remaining space.

9. If saving requires multiple discs, the first disc ejects when full, prompting “Insert Disk!”. Insert the next disc to continue.

10. When saving is complete, “Save Completed!” appears, and the final disc is ejected. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit Setup mode.

If you insert a recorded CD-R or CD-RW disc and attempt to save backup data (selecting “BkUp” mode):

• On a recorded CD-R: A warning “Not Writable!” will appear, followed by “Insert Disk”. You cannot save to a recorded CD-R.

• On a recorded CD-RW: After selecting the program to save (step 6), a warning message “*****[WARNING]***** Not Empty!” appears, followed by a confirmation screen “B01:******** ERASE Eject **MB Sure?”.

• To proceed with saving (which requires erasing), ensure “ERASE” and “Sure?” are flashing and press [ENTER/YES]. The disc will be erased (“Erasing CDRW Now! ******”) and then the save process will continue as normal.

• To cancel and eject the disc, use the [JOG] dial to select “Eject”, then press [ENTER/YES].

1. Turn on the VF160 and the connected CD-RW drive. Insert the CD containing the VF160 backup data.

2. Press [SETUP] to enter Setup mode.

3. Select “Load PGM” using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

4. Select the correct device (“IDE” or “SCSI”) using [REWIND]/[F FWD] and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The “Mode Select” screen appears. Select “BkUp” using [REWIND]/[F FWD] and press [ENTER/YES].

6. The “Source PGM Select” screen appears. Use the [JOG] dial to select the backup program/title (e.g., B01) you want to load from the CD. The disc number is also shown if it’s a multi-disc backup.

7. Press [ENTER/YES].

8. The “Destn PGM Select” screen appears, showing “New PGM” and the next available program number (e.g., P09). Loading from CD always creates a new program. Press [ENTER/YES] (confirming “Sure?”).

9. Loading starts. The display shows “Data Loading! B01>>P09” and counts down the space.

10. If loading from multiple discs, the first disc ejects when done, prompting “Insert Disk!”. Insert the next disc to continue.

11. When loading is complete, “Load Completed!” appears, and the final disc is ejected. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit Setup mode.

No. When loading backup data from a CD-RW/CD-R disc using the “Load PGM” > “BkUp” mode, the VF160 always creates a new program on the internal drive for the loaded data. It assigns the next available program number. You cannot select an existing program to overwrite when loading from a CD backup.

Even if you rotate the [JOG] dial on the “Destn PGM Select” screen and select an existing program number, pressing [ENTER/YES] will result in a “Void!” message, and the operation will be ignored.

If you attempt to load backup data from a CD (or SCSI, WAV, Digital Input) and the internal E-IDE hard drive does not have enough available space to store the incoming data, the display will show “Disk Full!”. The load operation will be cancelled, and the display will return to the previous screen.

No, you cannot abort the load operation (either backup data or audio CD data) from a CD-RW/CD-R disc before it is completed.

If an error occurs for some reason during the CD load operation, the error message “Load Not Completed! Error occurred -EXIT-” appears. Press the [EXIT/NO] key. The display returns to the previous screen. Any data that was partially loaded before the error occurred is invalid.

1. Ensure you have one or more mixed-down programs on the VF160’s internal drive. Set Clipboard IN and OUT points for the desired audio section within each program (usually the entire mix).

2. Turn on the VF160 and connected CD-RW drive. Load a blank CD-R or CD-RW disc.

3. Press [SETUP] to enter Setup mode.

4. Select “Save PGM” and press [ENTER/YES].

5. Select the correct device (“IDE” or “SCSI”) and press [ENTER/YES].

6. The “Mode Select” screen appears. Use [REWIND]/[F FWD] to select “CD-DA” and press [ENTER/YES]. (Optionally, select “Setup” first to adjust copy protection).

7. After a “Please Wait!” message, the program selection screen appears (e.g., “01 NON”, “02 NON”…).

8. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the first track number (e.g., “01”) and press [ENTER/YES]. The available program list appears.

9. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired mixed-down program for the first CD track and press [ENTER/YES]. The program title and time appear next to the track number (e.g., “01 P** Mix+* 03:00”).

10. Repeat steps 8 and 9 for subsequent CD tracks, selecting programs in order without skipping tracks.

11. After selecting all desired programs, press the [RECORD] key while holding it down, then press [ENTER/YES].

12. Recording starts. The display shows “Data Saving! P**>>B01” (Note: B01 here refers to CD track 1).

13. When recording is complete, “Save Completed!” appears, and the disc is ejected. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit.

You can set the copy protection (duplication restriction) for the audio CD you are creating:

• OFF (Default): A disc you make can be copied to other digital devices as many times as required.

• ON: A disc you make can be copied to other digital devices only once.

To set this, select “Setup” mode (instead of CD-DA) in step 6 of the audio CD creation process. In the “CD-DA setup” screen, select “COPY”, press [ENTER/YES], use the [JOG] dial to choose ON or OFF, press [ENTER/YES], then press [EXIT/NO] to return to the mode select screen and choose “CD-DA”.

If a program shows a recording time of “00:00” when you select it for inclusion on an audio CD, it means the Clipboard IN and Clipboard OUT points for that program are not correctly set. This occurs if:

• CLIPBOARD IN point = CLIPBOARD OUT point

• CLIPBOARD IN point > CLIPBOARD OUT point

If you try to confirm such a program by pressing [ENTER/YES], a warning like “Void In!”, “Void Out!”, or “Void Data!” will appear, and you cannot select that program. Correct the IN/OUT points before attempting to add it to the audio CD track list.

No. When assigning programs to tracks for an audio CD, you must assign them consecutively without skipping any track numbers. If you skip a track (e.g., assign programs to track 01 and 02, leave 03 as “NON”, and assign a program to track 04), only the tracks assigned up to the skip (01 and 02 in this case) will be recorded. Track 03 and subsequent tracks (including 04) will not be recorded.

When making an audio CD, if you select a program (or a sequence of programs) whose total time exceeds the remaining recordable space on the CD-RW/CD-R disc, the warning message “*****[WARNING]***** Disk Full!” will appear on the display. You cannot select that program or continue adding programs that would exceed the disc capacity.

If you insert a CD-RW disc that already contains data and select the “CD-DA” mode for making an audio CD, after you press [ENTER/YES] (step 7), the warning “*****[WARNING]***** Not Empty!” will appear. This is followed by a confirmation screen allowing you to either erase the disc or eject it:

“B01: *********** ERASE Eject **MB Sure?”

• To proceed (which requires erasing), ensure “ERASE” and “Sure?” are flashing and press [ENTER/YES]. The disc will be erased (“Erasing CDRW Now! ******”), and then the process continues to the program selection screen (step 8).

• To cancel and eject the disc, use the [JOG] dial to select “Eject”, then press [ENTER/YES].

You cannot record an audio CD onto an already finalized CD-R disc.

1. Turn on the VF160 and connected CD-RW drive. Load the audio CD.

2. Press [SETUP] to enter Setup mode.

3. Select “Load PGM” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. Select the correct device (“IDE” or “SCSI”) and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The “Mode Select” screen appears. Use [REWIND]/[F FWD] to select “CD-DA” and press [ENTER/YES].

6. A copyright warning message appears. Read it and press [ENTER/YES] to agree and continue (or [EXIT/NO] to cancel).

7. After “Set Enable!”, the track selection screen appears (e.g., “Total 00:05:30”, “01 P05 02:30”, “02 P06 03:00″… Note: Pxx numbers are assigned automatically for loading).

8. Use the [JOG] dial to highlight the track number you want to load (e.g., “01”). Press [ENTER/YES]. The destination program number (e.g., P05) flashes.

9. Press [ENTER/YES] again. The flashing stops, indicating track 01 is set to load into P05.

10. Repeat steps 8 and 9 to assign other CD tracks to subsequent program numbers if desired.

11. After selecting all desired tracks, press the [RECORD] key while holding it down, then press [ENTER/YES].

12. Loading starts. The display shows “Data Loading! B01>>P08” (Note: B01 here refers to CD track 1). Audio data is loaded onto tracks 1 and 2 of the destination program.

13. When loading is complete, “Load Completed!” appears, and the disc is ejected. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit.

Important: Remember copyright laws when loading from commercial CDs.

While you can technically load material from a commercially available audio CD, you must never use material for which a copyright is reserved for any commercial purpose. Any unauthorized use constitutes copyright infringement and makes the infringer liable to legal action. Be sure to abide by the copyright conditions of the source material.

You can only enter SETUP mode when the VF160 is stopped.

While the recorder is stopped, press the [SETUP] key on the operating panel. The recorder enters the SETUP mode, and the display changes to show the menu selection screen (e.g., “Select Menu”, with “Signature Set” highlighted initially).

• Use the [JOG] dial or the [REWIND] / [F FWD] keys to move the highlight (white text on black background) up or down the list of available menus.

• The flashing triangle (▼) indicates more menu items exist below the currently displayed ones.

• Once the desired menu item is highlighted, press the [ENTER/YES] key to select it and proceed to its specific setup screen or submenu.

To exit SETUP mode completely or to return to the previous menu level from a specific setting screen, press the [EXIT/NO] key or the [STOP] key. Each press typically takes you back one level, eventually returning you to the main operating display.

1. Select the program you want to edit.

2. Enter SETUP mode and select “Signature Set”. Press [ENTER/YES].

3. The current signature map is displayed (e.g., “-002BAR Offset”, “001BAR 4/4”).

4. To add a new signature: Select “Insert New Event” using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES]. The display prompts for a bar number (initially flashing the next available bar, e.g., “002BAR”).

5. Set the desired bar number using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

6. The time signature (e.g., “4/4”) flashes. Set the desired signature (1/4 to 8/8) using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES]. The new event is added.

7. To change an existing signature: Select the bar/signature line you want to change using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES]. The signature flashes. Set the new signature and press [ENTER/YES].

8. To delete a signature: Select the bar/signature line, press [ENTER/YES], then press [ENTER/YES] again. Use the [JOG] dial to select “DEL” and press [ENTER/YES].

9. To change the Bar Offset: Select “-002BAR Offset”, press [ENTER/YES]. Set the value (-2 to -9) and press [ENTER/YES].

10. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit.

Available Time Signatures:

1/4, 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 1/8, 3/8, 5/8, 6/8, 7/8, 8/8, DEL (delete)

1. Enter SETUP mode and select “Signature Set”. Press [ENTER/YES].

2. In the signature confirmation display, use the [JOG] dial to select the “All Clear” option at the bottom.

3. Press the [ENTER/YES] key. The display will show “All Clear SURE?” with “SURE?” flashing.

4. Press the [ENTER/YES] key again to confirm.

All time signature settings (except the default “001BAR 4/4”) and all tempo settings for the current program will be cleared and reset.

Caution: This action cannot be undone.

1. Ensure the time signature map is already set for the program.

2. Select the program you want to edit.

3. Enter SETUP mode and select “Tempo Set”. Press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current tempo map is displayed (e.g., “001BAR 1 / =120”).

5. To add a new tempo: Select “Insert New Event” using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES]. The display prompts for a bar number (initially flashing the next available bar where a signature exists, e.g., “002BAR”).

6. Set the desired bar number using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

7. The beat number (e.g., “1 /”) flashes. Set the desired beat within that bar using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES].

8. The tempo value (e.g., “=120”) flashes. Set the desired tempo (30-250 BPM) using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES]. The new event is added.

9. To change an existing tempo: Select the bar/beat/tempo line you want to change using the [JOG] dial and press [ENTER/YES]. The tempo value flashes. Set the new tempo and press [ENTER/YES].

10. To delete a tempo: Select the bar/beat/tempo line, press [ENTER/YES]. Use the [F FWD] key to show “DEL” next to the tempo. Press [ENTER/YES].

11. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Click” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“On” or “Off”) flashes.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” (to enable metronome) or “Off” (to disable metronome).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

When the Metronome (“Click”) function is set to “On”:

• The metronome sound will be output from track 16.

• Because track 16 is used for the metronome output, you cannot record any new sound source onto track 16.

• Any sound previously recorded on track 16 cannot be played back while the metronome is active.

If you need to record on or play back track 16, ensure the Metronome function is set to “Off”.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Preroll Time” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current preroll time setting (e.g., “00s”) flashes.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired preroll time in seconds (from “00s” to “10s” in one-second steps).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

The preroll function is active when locating to a stored point using the [LOCATE] key or when using the auto return function (returning to a locate point after stopping). It is not active when locating using the [SHIFT] + [PREV] keys, [SHIFT] + [NEXT] keys, or when locating to ABS 0 or REC END.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Midi Sync Out” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“CLK”, “MTC”, or “Off”) flashes.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired output type:

• CLK: Outputs MIDI clock and Song Position Pointer.

• MTC: Outputs MIDI Time Code.

• Off: No MIDI sync signal is output.

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

Note: If selecting CLK, ensure Time Signature and Tempo are set. If selecting MTC, set Frame Rate, MTC Offset, and Offset Mode.

1. Ensure “Midi Sync Out” is set to “MTC”.

2. Select the desired program.

3. Enter SETUP mode.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Frame Rate” and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The current frame rate setting (e.g., “25”) flashes.

6. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired frame rate value (24, 25, 29df, 29nd, 30df, or 30nd) to match the external MIDI device or software.

7. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

8. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

This setting defines the MTC time that corresponds to the VF160’s internal start time (either ABS 00m 00s or 001bar 1beat, depending on Offset Mode).

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Mtc Offset Set” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The MTC offset value entry screen appears (e.g., “00H59M57S00F 00sF”). A specific field (like seconds ‘S’) will flash.

5. Use the [F FWD] and [REWIND] keys to move the flashing cursor to the digit (Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Frames, Subframes) you want to change.

6. Use the [JOG] dial to input the desired value for the flashing digit.

7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until the desired offset time is set.

8. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

9. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

This determines whether the MTC Offset value (set in “Mtc Offset Set”) corresponds to the absolute time start or the tempo map start.

1. Ensure “Midi Sync Out” is set to “MTC”.

2. Select the desired program.

3. Enter SETUP mode.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Offset Mode” and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The current setting (“ABS” or “BAR”) flashes.

6. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired mode:

• ABS (Initial Setting): The specified MTC offset time is output starting at the VF160’s absolute time ABS 00h 00m 00s 00f.

• BAR: The specified MTC offset time is output starting at the 001bar 1beat 00clk point of the program’s Tempo Map.

7. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

8. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Slave Mode” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“On” or “Off”) flashes.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” (to enable slave mode) or “Off” (to disable slave mode).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

When Slave Mode is set to “On”, the VF160 will attempt to synchronize its transport and timing to an incoming external sync signal (the type is determined by the “Slave Type” setting, e.g., MTC).

Upon exiting SETUP mode after enabling Slave Mode, the “SLV” (Slave) icon will flash in the main display. This indicates the VF160 is attempting to lock to the external sync source.

Once the VF160 successfully locks to the incoming sync signal, the “SLV” icon will change from flashing to being constantly lit.

1. Ensure “Slave Mode” is set to “On”.

2. Select the desired program.

3. Enter SETUP mode.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Slave Type” and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The current slave type setting (“Vari”, “Free”, “SPDIF”, or “adat”) flashes.

6. Use the [JOG] dial to select the type of sync signal the VF160 should synchronize to:

• Vari (Initial Setting): Follows incoming MTC with varipitch adjustment.

• Free: Locks to MTC initially then free runs based on internal clock (syncs to Digital In clock if Digital In selected).

• SPDIF: Locks to MTC and syncs clock to incoming S/PDIF signal (if Digital In set to SPDIF).

• adat: Locks to MTC and syncs clock to incoming ADAT signal (if Digital In set to adat).

7. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

8. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

Note: MTC must always be input from an external device regardless of the Slave Type selected. The Vari Pitch function is disabled when any Slave Type is active.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Rec Protect” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“On” or “Off”) flashes.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” (to disable recording, pasting, erasing) or “Off” (to enable recording, pasting, erasing).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

When the Record Protect function is set to “On” for a program, you cannot perform operations that alter the recorded audio data for that program. This includes:

• Recording new audio

• Pasting audio (Copy & Paste, Move & Paste)

• Erasing audio data

This function helps protect important data from accidental erasure or modification.

If Record Protect is set to “On” for the current program and you attempt to record, paste, or erase data, the VF160 will display the message “Protected!” for a second. The operation will not be performed. To perform the operation, you must first go back into the SETUP menu and set “Rec Protect” to “Off”.

This menu determines whether tracks 1-16 receive analog signals or if some tracks receive digital signals from the DIGITAL/DATA INPUT connector.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Digital In” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“Analog”, “adat”, or “SPDIF Lxx Rxx”) is highlighted or displayed.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired input type:

• Analog (Initial Setting): All tracks (1-16) receive analog input signals from the mixer inputs.

• adat: Tracks 1-8 receive digital signals from the ADAT input. Tracks 9-16 receive analog inputs.

• SPDIF Lxx Rxx: Allows assigning the Left (L) and Right (R) channels of the S/PDIF input to any two tracks (xx) from 1-16. Use [REWIND]/[F FWD] keys to select L or R, and the [JOG] dial to assign the track number. All other tracks receive analog inputs.

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting. (If selecting SPDIF, a copyright warning appears; press [ENTER/YES] again to accept).

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

Yes, depending on the “Digital In” setting:

• If set to “adat”: You can simultaneously record the 8 digital ADAT inputs onto tracks 1-8 and analog inputs onto tracks 9-16.

• If set to “SPDIF Lxx Rxx”: You can simultaneously record the 2 digital S/PDIF inputs onto the two assigned tracks (xx) and analog inputs onto the remaining 14 tracks.

• If set to “Analog”: Only analog inputs can be recorded.

When the “Digital In” setting is set to “adat” or “SPDIF” in the SETUP menu, and a correct digital signal is being received at the DIGITAL/DATA INPUT connector and the VF160 is locked to it, the corresponding indicator (“ADAT” or “SPDIF”) will be constantly lit in the normal operating display.

If the indicator blinks, it means that an incorrect or unstable digital signal is being input, or the VF160 is not locked to the signal. Check the cable connections and the digital output settings of the external source device.

This menu selects the type of signal sent from the DIGITAL/DATA OUT connector.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Digital Out” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“SPDIF” or “adat”) flashes.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired output type:

• SPDIF (Initial Setting): Outputs the main STEREO BUSS L/R signal as an S/PDIF digital signal. Use for digital mixdown.

• adat: Outputs signals from tracks 9-16 as an ADAT digital signal. (Track exchanged tracks 1-8 can also be output).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

When outputting digital signals (SPDIF or ADAT) from the VF160’s DIGITAL/DATA OUT connector to external digital equipment, the sampling frequency of the receiving external equipment must be set identically to that of the VF160 (which operates at 44.1kHz). Mismatched sampling frequencies will result in errors or incorrect audio transfer.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Resolution” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“On” or “Off”) flashes.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” (to enable beat resolution) or “Off” (to disable beat resolution, using full CLK resolution).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

When the “Resolution” setting is turned “On”, the VF160 operates in beat-resolution mode when using the BAR/BEAT/CLK time base.

Any time point stored using the memory keys (e.g., Clipboard IN/OUT points stored in real-time by pressing [STORE] then a memory key during playback) will have its CLK (clock) value automatically rounded off to “00”.

Example (assuming 4/4 time):

• If you store 001bar 1beat 46clk, it gets stored as 001bar 1beat 00clk.

• If you store 002bar 4beat 51clk, it gets stored as 003bar 1beat 00clk (rounded up to the next beat).

This ensures that stored points always align precisely with musical beats, which is convenient for beat-based editing like Copy & Paste or Move & Paste.

When “Resolution” is “Off”, points are stored with their exact CLK values.

1. Enter SETUP mode.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Device ID” and press [ENTER/YES].

3. The current MIDI device ID number (e.g., “00”) flashes.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired device ID number (from “00” to “99”). This number should typically match the device ID setting in your external MMC controller (e.g., sequence software).

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

Note: The VF160 will also respond to MMC messages addressed to the universal device ID [7F], regardless of this setting.

1. Select the program you want to check.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Number Of Event” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The display changes to the “Event” screen, showing a list of tracks (e.g., Track01, Track02…) and the number of events recorded on each (represented by “***”).

5. Use the [JOG] dial to scroll through the list and view the event count for different tracks (01-24).

6. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit the screen and SETUP mode.

Each track in a VF160 program is composed of consecutive audio files (segments of recorded audio) and “zero” files (representing silence between audio segments). The “number of events” displayed in the “Number Of Event” menu represents the total count of these audio files and zero files on that specific track (including its associated additional track).

Each track can contain a maximum of 512 events.

While typical editing on songs of normal length (e.g., six minutes) rarely exceeds the 512 event limit per track due to the VF160’s data optimization, you should be cautious under certain conditions:

• Scattered Recordings: If a recording on a single track is highly fragmented, with audio scattered across different areas of the hard disk.

• Very Long Recordings with Many Edits: If you have made a very long continuous recording on one track and subsequently performed numerous edits (cuts, pastes, moves).

Exceeding the 512 event limit is called “event number overflow.” Use the “Number Of Event” menu to check the count on tracks before extensive recording or editing, especially under the conditions mentioned above, to avoid potential issues.

1. Enter SETUP mode.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Drive Information” and press [ENTER/YES].

3. The display changes to the “Drive Information” screen, showing details about the currently active drive (usually the internal E-IDE hard disk).

4. Use the [JOG] dial to scroll through the various information items displayed.

5. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit the screen and SETUP mode.

The “Drive Information” menu provides the following details about the currently selected drive:

1. Manufacturer / Model of the hard disk.

2. Format method

3. Format type

4. Simultaneously recordable number of tracks

5. Number of bits at formatting

6. Sampling frequency at formatting

7. Present number of programs

8. Present number of free blocks

9. Audio file / maximum number of events and its program No.

10. Specific capacity of the drive

11. Remaining capacity of the drive

12. Present software version

This information can be helpful for troubleshooting if provided to Fostex service personnel.

This allows you to temporarily select the connected SCSI backup drive as the active drive, primarily for playback confirmation of backed-up data.

1. Ensure a SCSI drive with backup data is connected and powered on.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Drive Select” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“IDE” or “SCSI”) flashes.

5. Use the [REWIND] or [F FWD] key to select “IDE” (for the internal hard drive) or “SCSI” (for the connected backup drive).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the selection.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode. The normal display will indicate the selected drive (e.g., P01 for IDE, B01 for SCSI).

Note: Power cycling the VF160 automatically reverts the selection back to the internal IDE drive.

When the “Drive Select” setting is switched to “SCSI” (backup drive), the following operations cannot be executed:

• Save/load of song data

• Erase

• Track exchange

• Setup of time signature

• Recording

• Creating a new program

• Deleting a program

• Copy & paste and Move & paste

• Setup of tempo

• ON/OFF of metronome function

• Editing a title

• Setup of permission or denial of recording

Essentially, the SCSI drive mode is primarily for playback confirmation. Full playback of 16 channels might also cause dropouts on some SCSI equipment.

In the normal operating display:

• When the internal E-IDE drive is selected (Drive Sel = IDE), the program number is prefixed with “P” (e.g., P01:#0001).

• When the backup SCSI drive is selected (Drive Sel = SCSI), the program number is prefixed with “B” (e.g., B01:#0001), indicating a backup program is active.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Fader Fix” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“On” or “Off”) flashes.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” (to fix fader levels) or “Off” (to allow fader movement to affect volume).

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm.

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

Note: Fader Fix mode only functions when Fader Recall Mode is set to something other than “Off” (i.e., CH, MST, or CH & MST).

• On: When Fader Fix is On, manipulating the physical Channel faders or the Master fader will have no effect on the actual sound volume. The levels are fixed according to the recalled scene or current settings. This prevents accidental level changes due to vibration or misoperation.

• Off (Initial setting): When Fader Fix is Off, manipulating the physical Channel faders or the Master fader will affect the sound volume in real-time, as expected.

This determines which fader settings (channel, master, or both) are recalled when a scene memory is loaded.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Fader Recall” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. The current setting (“Off”, “CH”, “MST”, or “CH & MST”) flashes.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select the desired recall behavior.

6. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm. (A “Level Adjust! Sure?” prompt may appear if changing from a mode that recalls faders to one that doesn’t, or vice-versa. Press [ENTER/YES] again if needed).

7. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

• Off (Initial setting): When a scene is recalled, the fader positions remain as they were immediately before the recall. No stored fader settings from the scene memory are applied.

• CH (Channel): When a scene is recalled, only the stored setup figures for each channel fader are recalled and applied. The master fader setting is not recalled.

• MST (Master): When a scene is recalled, only the stored setup figure for the master fader is recalled and applied. Channel fader settings are not recalled.

• CH & MST: When a scene is recalled, the stored setup figures for both the channel faders and the master fader are recalled and applied.

This message appears when you change the Fader Recall setting in a way that alters which faders (channel or master) will have their levels determined by recalled scene data versus their current physical position (e.g., changing from “CH & MST” to “Off”, or from “Off” to “CH”).

It serves as a warning because after the setting change and subsequent scene recall, the actual audio levels might not match the physical positions of the faders anymore, potentially causing sudden jumps in volume. Pressing [ENTER/YES] confirms the setting change, and you should then adjust the physical fader levels as needed after recalling a scene. Pressing [EXIT/NO] cancels the setting change.

1. Select the desired program.

2. Enter SETUP mode.

3. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Pair Fader Set” and press [ENTER/YES].

4. A list of available pairs appears (Ch 1/2, Ch 3/4, …, Ch 9/10), with their current status (On or Off). The first pair (Ch 1/2) is highlighted.

5. Use the [JOG] dial to select the channel pair you want to modify (e.g., Ch 3/4).

6. Press [ENTER/YES]. The setting field (“On” or “Off”) for the selected pair flashes.

7. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” (to pair the channels) or “Off” (to un-pair them).

8. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting for that pair. The display returns to the list highlighting.

9. Repeat steps 5-8 for any other pairs you want to set.

10. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

Besides the physical fader level (controlled by the odd channel fader), the following parameters are adjusted simultaneously for both channels in a pair when you access them via the odd or even [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key:

• Effect send level adjustment

• Effect send pre/post setting

• Aux send level adjustment

• Aux send pre/post setting

• EQ (HI/MID/LO) adjustment

• On/off of SOLO

• On/off of channel mute

• Setting of INPUT (TRACK/INPUT) SEL (channels 9-16 only)

• Setting of REC source for BUSS recording

• Setting of the built-in compressor (channels 13/14 or 15/16 only)

If you move the physical fader for the even channel (e.g., channel 2) when it is paired with the preceding odd channel (e.g., channel 1), the message “Pair Fader!” appears on the display. Moving the even channel fader does not affect the level of either channel in the pair; control is solely determined by the odd channel fader.

1. Mute the VF160 output first.

2. Connect or disconnect microphones as needed (see cautions).

3. Enter SETUP mode.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select “PhantomPower” and press [ENTER/YES].

5. The current setting (“On” or “Off”) flashes.

6. Use the [JOG] dial to select “On” or “Off”.

7. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

8. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

9. If turned On, the PHANTOM LED next to Inputs 7/8 will light up. Unmute the output if needed.

• Only use phantom power with condenser microphones that explicitly require +48V phantom power connected to INPUT 7 or 8 (XLR).

• Connect the condenser microphone *before* switching phantom power ON.

• Always switch phantom power OFF *before* connecting or disconnecting dynamic microphones.

• Always mute the VF160 output when switching phantom power ON or OFF, and when connecting or disconnecting any microphone cable from INPUT 7 or 8 while power is on, to prevent loud pops.

• Never connect unbalanced microphones or equipment that cannot handle +48V to INPUT 7 or 8 when phantom power is ON.

Do not use phantom power with, or connect the following to INPUT 7/8 when phantom power is ON:

• Unbalanced output microphones (including unbalanced dynamic microphones).

• High impedance microphones.

• Microphones with voltage leak between pin 2/pin 3 and pin 1.

• Old model ribbon microphones (ground center tap output type).

• Dynamic microphones (Phantom power should always be OFF when connecting these).

Connecting incompatible equipment when phantom power is ON can damage the microphone or the VF160’s amplifier.

1. Enter SETUP mode.

2. Use the [JOG] dial to select “Comp. Channel” and press [ENTER/YES].

3. The current setting (“Off”, “13-14”, or “15-16”) flashes.

4. Use the [JOG] dial to select which pair of channels the compressor resource should be assigned to, or select “Off” to assign it only to the master channel.

5. Press [ENTER/YES] to confirm the setting.

6. Press [EXIT/NO] or [STOP] to exit SETUP mode.

Note: Regardless of this setting, the compressor can always be applied to the master channel.

When the internal compressor is assigned to a channel pair (13-14 or 15-16) via the “Comp. Channel” setting, the Equalizer (EQ) cannot be applied or edited on those specific channels. The EQ remains available on all other channels (except the assigned pair) and the master channel.

If you enter the EQ editing mode (e.g., by pressing an EQ parameter button) when the compressor is assigned to channels 13-14 or 15-16:

• The green LED of the [CH STATUS/CH SEL] key for channels where EQ *is* available will blink.

• The LED for channels where EQ is *not* available (because the compressor is assigned to them) will not be lit.

• If you try to select a channel where EQ is unavailable (e.g., channel 13 if Comp. Channel is set to 13-14), the message “Can’t Select!” will blink on the display, and the operation will be ineffective.

The VF160 must be in input monitor mode for the level meters to show the input signal level and for the channel fader to control the input level. Press the [RECORD] key only (do not press PLAY). The [RECORD] key should blink red, indicating input monitor mode for the record-ready tracks. The level meters and faders for those tracks will now function for the input signal.

This usually occurs when the input signal is too low. Check the [TRIM] knob for the corresponding input channel. If it is set too low (e.g., fully counter-clockwise towards “LINE”), the signal level might be insufficient even with the fader raised. Rotate the [TRIM] knob clockwise towards “MIC” until the level is appropriate, being careful not to cause distortion (watch the PEAK LED).

Direct recording requires the corresponding channel’s [INPUT]-[TRACK] setting to be in “TRK” mode. If any channel from 9 to 16 is set to “INPUT” mode (used for monitoring external inputs or BUSS recording), that specific track cannot be selected as a destination for DIRECT recording. Check the [INPUT]-[TRACK] settings for channels 9-16 and ensure they are set to “TRK” if you intend to use them for direct recording.

Check the monitor output level knobs:

• Headphones: Ensure the [PHONES] level knob is raised from zero.

• External Monitors: If using speakers connected to the MON OUT jacks, ensure the [MON OUT] level knob is raised from zero. Also, ensure the monitor amplifier/speakers are powered on and set correctly.

Also, make sure the track you are monitoring is record-ready ([REC] key flashing) or playing back.

EQ adjustments cannot be applied to the audio signal *during* DIRECT recording. While you can adjust the EQ and hear the change in the monitor signal when in input monitor mode for direct recording, the actual recording captures the original, unaltered input signal directly to the track. To record audio with EQ applied, you must use BUSS recording mode instead.

To record the internal effects (Effect 1 or Effect 2) along with the source channel(s) during BUSS recording, you must select the effect processor itself as a source in addition to the source channel(s). Go to the “SELECT SOURCE!” screen (using the [BUSS SOURCE] key) and ensure that the desired effect (EFF1 SRC or EFF2 SRC) is selected (lit) along with the source input channel(s) (e.g., Input H).

Ensure the effect send level for that source channel is raised above zero. Access the effect send screen (e.g., “EFF1 SEND”) for the specific channel and use the [JOG] dial to increase the send level. The initial level for all channels is 0, meaning no signal is being sent to the effects processor.

Check the “Digital In” setting in the SETUP menu. It must be set to match the type of digital signal you are trying to record (either “SPDIF” or “adat”). If it’s set to “Analog”, the VF160 will not accept digital inputs. Also, ensure the external device is sending a valid digital signal at the correct sampling frequency (44.1kHz) and that the connecting cable is working properly.

Check the “Digital In” setting in the SETUP menu. If it is set to “SPDIF” or “adat”, the tracks assigned to receive digital signals (L/R for SPDIF, 1-8 for ADAT) cannot record analog signals. To record analog signals on those tracks, you must change the “Digital In” setting back to “Analog”.

For ping pong recording (bouncing tracks), ensure the following:

1. Source Selection: Press the [BUSS SOURCE] key and select the track(s) you want to bounce *from* as the source (their SRC indicators should be lit).

2. Destination Selection: Press the [BUSS REC TRK] key and select the track(s) you want to bounce *to* by making them record-ready (their RDY indicators should be lit).

You must have both the source track(s) selected in the BUSS SOURCE screen and the destination track(s) selected in the BUSS REC TRK screen.

The incoming digital signal’s sampling frequency likely did not match the VF160’s fixed sampling frequency of 44.1kHz. The VF160 requires external digital signals (S/PDIF or ADAT) to be at 44.1kHz (and 16-bit depth) for correct recording and playback. Recording a signal with a different sampling frequency will result in incorrect pitch and time count during playback.

This usually indicates that the CLIPBOARD IN and OUT points, which define the section to be copied or moved, are not registered correctly. The required relationship is IN point < OUT point. If the points are registered in reverse (IN point > OUT point) or are identical (IN point = OUT point), the copy-clip or move-clip operation cannot be executed, and a warning will appear. Re-register the IN and OUT points correctly.

This can happen if the “ALIGN SEL” function was not used or was turned off during the paste operation. The ALIGN SEL function, when active, includes the audio data located immediately before the start of the bar containing the CLIPBOARD IN point during a paste operation. If ALIGN SEL is off, only the data from the IN point onwards is pasted. Refer to page 74 of the PDF for details on using ALIGN SEL.

The CD-1A drive can use:

• CD-R discs: For saving/loading song data (backup) or making audio CDs (record once).

• CD-RW discs: For saving/loading song data (backup) or making audio CDs (can be erased and rewritten).

• Audio CD discs (Read-only): For loading track data into the VF160.

• Avoid getting dirt or scratches on the disc surface (the side without the label).

• Hold discs by the outer edge and the center hole.

• Do not stick paper or labels on the label side.

• Do not scratch the label side.

• Use only a felt-tip pen for writing on the label side; avoid ball-point pens or pencils.

• Never use warped or chipped discs.

If a disc has dust, dirt, or fingerprints, wipe it gently with a soft, dry cloth. You can also use alcohol. Wipe from the center of the disc straight out towards the edge. Never wipe in a circular motion.

• Do not use cleaners intended for analog vinyl records or antistatic sprays.

• Do not use volatile solvents such as benzine.

• Do not use hard-tipped writing tools like ball-point pens or pencils on the label side.

• Do not expose discs to direct sunlight or leave them in hot, moist, or cold places.

Press the eject switch on the CD-1A drive lightly. The tray will open slightly. Gently pull the tray out fully by hand.

Place the disc onto the tray with the label side facing up. Support the tray from underneath with your hand. Gently push the center of the disc down onto the pivot until it clicks securely into place. Closing the tray without the disc properly locked onto the pivot can cause damage.

Open the tray fully. Support the tray from underneath with your hand. Gently lift the disc off the center pivot. Avoid forcing the disc, which could damage it or the drive.

Do not touch the lens inside the CD drive when the tray is open (either when pulling it out or placing a disc). Touching the lens may damage it or cause malfunctions.

Gently push the tray fully inwards by hand until it clicks and is completely closed.

• For normal cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth.

• For stubborn dirt: Moisten a cloth with diluted mild detergent, wring it out firmly, and wipe the dirt off. Then polish with a soft, dry cloth.

• Never use solvents: Do not use alcohol, thinner, benzene, or similar solvents, as they can damage the printing and finish.