SP Studio Systems SP-12 - Manual (Page 85)

APPENDIX
© E-mu Systems, Inc. 1985 Page 85
Enhanced by The Emulator Archive 2002 www.emulatorarchive.com
SAMPLING FROM TAPES
Maintaining sample quality via VCR recording: One excellent way to sample involves
using a VCR and digital audio adapter (sucb as the Sony PCM-F1) for recording
different sounds. Compared to using conventional reel-to-reel tape recorders, this
approach offers several advantages:
Digital-quality fidelity. A VCR/audio adapter combination adds virtually no
degradation to the signal being sampled. Signal-to-noise ratio, wow, flutter, and
dynamic range exceed that of all but the very finest analog recorders. These
tapes of source sounds can serve as “master” library disks.
Lower tape costs. VCR cartridge tape is very inexpensive; you can record hours
and hours of samples for only a few dollars.
Portability. Using a portable VCR and battery powered audio adapter makes for
a very compact and portable package.
Although splicing is not easy with VCR-based audio systems, you can generally do
the required signal splicing and manipulation within the SP-12.
A good alternative to the VCR/adapter approach is to use a Sony Beta Hi-Fi or VHS
Hi-Fi recorder; the audio tracks are of excellent quality.
Maintaining sample quality when sampling from tape recordings:
Follow common-sense recording practice -- be extremely careful about mic
placement, use noise reduction when recording samples on to tape, limit the signal
going on to tape rather than limiting the signal coming off the tape into the SP-12,
and add aural enhancement if desired.
Sampling from Compact Discs: This is a great way to get high quality drum
sounds, especially with so many records having solo drum intros and breaks.
Creative use of multi-tracking: Try multi-tracking sounds on a conventional
recorder, then sampling the combination sound into the SP-12. For example,
combining electronic and acoustic percussion sounds can produce some very useful
results.