Korg Introduces D8 Digital Recording Studio
January 29, 1998
Korg USA, Inc. announces the introduction of the hard-disk based Korg D8 Digital Recording Studio: an eight-track recording, editing and mixing system in a single compact (15.2" W x 9.8"D x 3.3"H), portable (5.7 Lbs.) unit.
Korg's new D8 provides fully digital, uncompressed processing (24-bit internal, 16-bit recording and playback @ 44.1 kHz) onto eight tracks (2-tracks simultaneous recording, 8-tracks simultaneous playback) and includes a built-in 1.4GB hard disk in addition to an SCSI interface that will accommodate up to seven external drives (4GB each, maximum).
The D8 possesses an integral 12-channel, 4-bus digital mixer section. Functions such as Auto Punch-In and Auto-Save are standard to facilitate editing. Fader, EQ and Pan settings can be memorized as scenes while up to 20 scenes can be memorized for each song. Audio Trigger Rec enables the D8 to begin recording automatically in response to an input signal. The D8's Scrub function makes it possible to listen to the recorded data on each track and accurately find the beginning of a phrase - just as on an open-reel recorder. In addition, its Mark Memory feature permits storing up to 100 locations within each recorded song.
The D8 Digital Recording Studio provides the musician with a selection of 65 preset digital effects programs featuring 50 different types of effects. As such, the entire mixdown process can be performed on the D8. Effects can be applied to any source while recording or on an already-recorded phrase, in any of three locations, as an insert or master (send type, global type) effect.
The new D8 supports a wide range of input and output configurations. Sound sources such as mic', line and guitar can be connected directly via TRS-type, 1/4-inch phone jacks, and all connectors, e.g. SCSI port, S/P DIF, AUX IN, etc., needed for use with external devices are standard. The SCSI port can be used to connect up to seven drives such as hard disks for recording, playback or backup. The S/P DIF connector enables digital recording from an external digital audio device such as a CD or DAT player. Songs can also be digitally recorded to a DAT or MD recorder. The AUX IN/OUT can be connected to external effects processors.
The D8's synchronization capabilities meet modern production demands. Users can create a tempo map to synchronize recording to an external song loaded in from a recording or Compact Disc. Tempo maps can be recorded by inputting numerical tempo data (BPM) or by using the Tap Tempo function. The D8 sends MIDI clock synchronization data, can send MTC and responds to MMC messages from compatible rhythm machines, drum machines and sequencers.
The Korg D8 Digital Recording Studio has a suggested list price of $1250 and will be available in May, 1998. For more information, visit their web site at www.korg.com. | 
