Fostex FR-2

Hello all,
I 'm looking for advice on real world use of the Fostex field
memory recorder model FR-2. I will shortly be working on a low/no budget
film running sound directly to the HD camera with the Fostex as a backup.
I've done this setup before but using a PD4. ( the FR-2 is owned by the
producer which is why we are using this unit).

From reading the manual, it appears that the device is really designed for
news type reporting suited to recording interviews, short soundbites and
effects. While I'm sure the recording quality will be sufficient as a backup
(although no timecode) I am concerned about the battery life. According to
the manual I can expect 2.5 hrs 'continuous operation' from NI-HM batteries
and 1.33 from alkalines, but what does this mean in actual use? Given that
it takes 8AAs internally would I actually then require at least 32 AA
batteries per day? (This is a very low budget production). The prospect of
dealing with 24 rechargeable AAs does not appeal at all.

External battery power seems the obvious way to go (as mains will not always
be available, that low budget again). However the manual warns against using
voltages above 12v and I have NP-1dx's(13.2v). Normally I would just run
with them anyway as they have previously worked with pro and non pro gear
rated for 12v with no problems. However I would hate to be responsible for
damaging(even a blown fuse) their brand new 'toy'.

So I would greatly appreciate any advice that anyone could impart on the
practical use of this device (Using some other device is not an option at
this stage).

Thanks in advance ,
Jim Dunwoodie

Jim Dunwoodie wrote:

....>
> External battery power seems the obvious way to go (as mains will not always
> be available, that low budget again). However the manual warns against using
> voltages above 12v and I have NP-1dx's(13.2v). Normally I would just run
> with them anyway as they have previously worked with pro and non pro gear
> rated for 12v with no problems. However I would hate to be responsible for
> damaging(even a blown fuse) their brand new 'toy'.
>
> So I would greatly appreciate any advice that anyone could impart on the
> practical use of this device (Using some other device is not an option at
> this stage).
>
> Thanks in advance ,
> Jim Dunwoodie

Hi Jim,

Yes, the FR2 is what I call seriously underpowered. Especially since there's
enough space in the mostly empty case for D cells. I had not taken note that the
machine isn't happy above 12V [I wonder what the max voltage really is for the
regulator?] but in that case I'd suggest getting some Gates Cyclon cells and
running it off them. The machine weighs almost nothing, I guess the battery
would make up for that.

Best,
John