Lectrosonics MTCR Miniature Time Code Recorder

Quick Start Steps

1. Install battery and turn on the power.
2. Insert microSDHC memory card and format it with the MTCR.
3. Set timecode jam source.
4. Connect microphone or audio source.
5. Set input gain (Mic Level).
6. Select record mode.
7. Set output level (HP Volume).
8. Begin recording.

CAUTION: See card formatting warning on page 4.

Introduction

The MTCR Digital Recorder is designed for recording audio in challenging environments where traditional recorders are impractical. It is suitable for extreme sports, public speaking events, weddings, or location sound recording. The MTCR allows for professional quality audio capture, synchronized with timecode, even when talent is at a distance or using wireless microphones.

Broadcast Wave Format

The MTCR records audio in the industry-standard BWF/.WAV file format, which includes a timing reference for easy synchronization with video editing software.

Versatility

The MTCR can be tethered to a camera for higher quality or backup audio recording. It features a TA5M input jack compatible with most electret lavaliere microphones and provides bias voltage. The input connection is compatible with microphones pre-wired for “compatible” and “servo bias” configurations. Setup and adjustment are made through an intuitive keypad and LCD interface. The housing is machined from a solid aluminum billet for ruggedness.

Battery Installation

The audio recorder is powered by a single AAA Lithium battery, providing up to 6 hours of operation. Zinc-carbon batteries are not recommended. Alkaline batteries can be used for short-term testing, but disposable lithium AAA batteries are recommended for production use.

CAUTION: Danger of explosion if battery is incorrectly replaced. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.

Compatibility with microSDHC Memory Cards

The MTCR is designed for use with microSDHC memory cards (2 GB to 32 GB). SDXC and SDUC cards are NOT compatible. Look for Speed Class 10 or UHS Speed Class I cards. Always test a new card before critical use.

Compatible markings include:

• Speed Class 10 (C with 10 inside)
• UHS Speed Class I (U with 1 inside)

Installing the Card

The card slot is covered by a flexible cap. Open the cap by pulling out on the side flush with the housing. Insert the card with the label facing the keypad side of the recorder.

Formatting the SD Card

New microSDHC cards are pre-formatted with FAT32. The MTCR performs a “Quick Format” which deletes all files and prepares the card for recording. If any files are written, edited, or deleted on the card by a computer, it must be re-formatted with the MTCR. Never perform a low-level format with a computer, as this can render the card unusable. With a Windows computer, ensure the “Quick Format” box is checked. With a Mac, choose MS-DOS (FAT).

IMPORTANT: The MTCR formats the SD card for efficient recording using the BEXT wave format. Do not edit, change, format, or view files on the card with a computer. Copy files to a computer first. Do not rename or edit files directly on the SD card. Do not save any files to the SD card with a computer. Use only the MTCR for file manipulation on the card.

iXML HEADER SUPPORT: Recordings contain industry-standard iXML chunks in the file headers.

Features and Controls

The MTCR features a timecode sync port, microSDHC memory card slot, headphone jack, and audio input.

The audio input is compatible with Lectrosonics “compatible” or “servo bias” microphones. If the unit is powered on with an unformatted card, a prompt to format the card will appear. If a recording was interrupted, the Recovery screen will appear.

The Main Window displays battery status, timecode, and audio level. Settings are accessed via the MENU/SEL button and arrow keys. Buttons also provide alternate functions labeled by icons on the LCD.

The Playback Windows display icons that change based on playback status (active, paused middle, paused end).

Operating Instructions

Powering On

Press and hold the Power Button until the Lectrosonics logo appears.

Powering Off

Hold the Power Button in and wait for the countdown. Recording must be stopped before powering down. The front panel can be locked to prevent accidental changes.

Main Window

Displays battery status, timecode, and audio level. Icons provide access to Menu, Info, Record (REC), and Play Last Clip (LAST) functions.

Recording Window

Press the REC button to start recording. The headphone output is muted during recording. Press and hold BACK and DOWN arrow to stop recording.

“Slow Card” Warning: If samples are lost, a “slow card” warning appears. The unit continues recording, and the audio/timecode will jump forward. If this occurs frequently, replace the card.

Playback Window

Icons change to provide playback functions. Blinking icons indicate Play/Pause status.

Navigating Menus

Menus are navigated using the SEL, BACK, and arrow buttons. Options include Timecode settings (TC Jam, Frame Rate, Use Clock), Mic Level, HP Volume, Scene & Take, SD Card formatting, File Naming, Settings (Record Mode, Bit Depth, Date & Time, Lock/Unlock, Backlight, Bat Type, Remote, Default), and About MTCR.

Timecode

TC Jam

Connect the timecode source and sync. JAM NOW will flash on the LCD. Sync takes place automatically. A timing reference is logged into the BWF metadata.

Frame Rate

Affects timing reference embedding and timecode display. Options include 30, 23.976, 29.97, 30DF, 29.97DF, 25, and 24.

Use Clock

Uses the MTCR’s internal clock. Only use when external timecode is not required.

Mic Level

Use UP and DOWN arrow buttons to adjust input gain. Indicators show clipping or limiting. In HD Mono mode, the limiter compresses input by 30 dB. In Split Gain mode, the limiter is less likely to engage but will prevent safety track clipping.

HP Volume

Use UP and DOWN arrows to adjust headphone volume.

Scene & Take

The MTCR automatically begins a new take when recording starts. Takes can run up to 999. Scene numbers can be manually entered (up to 99).

SD Card

Format Card

Erases all files on the card and prepares it for recording.

Files/Play

Play files based on their name. Use arrows to scroll, MENU/SEL to select, and DOWN arrow to play.

Takes/Play

Play files based on scene and take. Scene and take numbers are embedded in filenames and iXML headers. Recordings spanning multiple files are played as one long recording.

File Naming

Filenames use industry-standard iXML chunks. Naming options include:

• Sequence: Progressive numbers.
• Clock Time: DDHHMMA.WAV format, where DD is day, HH is hours, MM is minutes. An eighth character indicates segments.
• Scene/Take: S01T001.WAV format. 'S' for scene, 'T' for take. Scene numbers are manual, take numbers increment automatically.

About Card

View information about the microSDHC memory card, including storage used, capacity, and available recording time.

Settings

Record Mode

HD Mono: Records a single audio track. Over 4GB files are split into sequential segments.

Split Gain: Records two tracks: normal level and -18 dB safety track. Over 4GB files are split.

Bit Depth

Defaults to 24-bit. 32-bit is available for older software (32-bit is 24-bit padded).

Date & Time

The MTCR has a real-time clock/calendar (RTCC) for timestamping files. Set date and time using MENU/SEL and arrow buttons. WARNING: The RTCC may not be reliable for accurate timekeeping due to potential power loss or manipulation.

Lock/Unlock

Protects settings from accidental changes. When locked, a message appears if settings are altered. Unlock via the setup screen. Remote control still works.

Backlight

Backlight can be set to turn off after 5 minutes or 30 seconds, or stay on continuously.

Bat Type

Choose between Alkaline or Lithium battery type. Battery voltage is displayed.

Remote

Configure the recorder to respond to “dweedle tone” signals from the PDRRemote app (Yes/No).

Default

Return the recorder to factory default settings.

Firmware Updates

Firmware updates are made using a microSDHC memory card. Download the firmware update file (MTCR vX_xx.Idr) to your computer.

Computer steps:

1. Perform a Quick Format of the card (FAT32).
2. Copy the MTCR vX_xx.Idr file to the memory card.
3. Safely eject the card.

MTCR steps:

1. Turn the MTCR off and insert the memory card.
2. Hold down the UP and DOWN arrow buttons and turn the power on.
3. The recorder boots into firmware update mode. Select 'Run', 'Update', or 'Power Off'.
4. To update, select 'Update', choose the .Idr file, and press MENU/SEL.
5. After the update, the LCD displays “UPDATE SUCCESSFUL REMOVE CARD”.
6. Select 'Power Off' and press MENU/SEL.
7. If you re-insert the card, you may be prompted to format it. Re-format if you wish to record audio.

Bootloader Update: Use the MTCRboot vX_xx.ldr file following the same process. Do not update unless advised by the factory, as it can corrupt the unit if interrupted.

Recovery Process

Recordings can be recovered even if the card is accidentally removed or the battery dies during recording. Ensure a good battery is installed.

Once a fresh battery is installed, power on the MTCR with the interrupted recording card. The MTCR will detect the recording and ask if you want to recover.

If you select 'Yes', you will be prompted to specify the recording length (hours and minutes). The default suggestion is the approximate length of the most recent recording. It is safe to specify a longer duration. Use MENU/SEL to navigate and set the time, then press the DOWN arrow button to begin recovery.

Recovery is nearly instantaneous. The display will show “Recovery Successful”.

Copying Recordings to a Computer

1. Remove the microSD card from the MTCR.
2. Insert the microSD card into an adapter.
3. Insert the adapter into your computer's memory card slot.
4. On Windows, open Windows Explorer and navigate to the card's drive. On Mac, the card appears as an icon on the desktop.
5. Copy the desired files to your computer.
6. Safely eject the card adapter.

PDRRemote

A phone app (available on the AppStore and Google Play) allows remote control of the MTCR using audio tones (“dweedle tones”). Functions include Record Start/Stop, Mic Gain Level, and Lock/Unlock.

The MTCR tones are unique and will not react to tones for Lectrosonics transmitters. The app interface differs for iOS and Android but performs the same functions.

For Best Results: Ensure the microphone is within range and the recorder is configured for remote control activation (see Remote in the menu).

Please note: This app is not a Lectrosonics product; it is privately owned and operated by New Endian LLC.

5-Pin Input Jack Wiring

Wiring diagrams are provided for common microphone and audio inputs. These diagrams represent basic wiring, but variations may exist with different manufacturers' products.

Audio Input Jack Wiring: Details pin functions for TA5F connectors, including shield, bias voltage source, microphone level input, and line level input.

Installing the Connector: Step-by-step instructions for assembling a TA5F connector onto a microphone cable, including sliding on the dust boot, backshell, insulator, and cable clamp, and soldering wires to the insert.

Microphone Cable Termination for Non-Lectrosonics Microphones

Instructions for TA5F connector assembly and mic cord stripping. Crimping to shield and insulation is detailed, noting that this termination is for UHF transmitters and the MTCR. VHF transmitters with 5-pin jacks require a different termination.

Timecode Jack Wiring

The timecode connection uses a standard LEMO 5-pin connector. Pin connections are detailed: 1-Ground, 2-SMPTE Timecode In, 3-Not used, 4-Not used, 5-Not used.

Wiring Hookups for Different Sources

Provides various wiring diagrams for connecting microphones and line level sources to the MTCR, including:

• 2 Volt Positive Bias 2-Wire Electret (Figs. 1, 9)
• 4 Volt Positive Bias 2-Wire Electret (Fig. 2)
• Wiring for Lectrosonics M152/5P (Fig. 3)
• DPA Microphones (Fig. 4)
• 2 Volt Negative Bias 2-Wire Electret (Fig. 5)
• Sanken COS-11 and others (Fig. 6)
• LO-Z Microphone Level Signals (Fig. 7)
• Balanced and Floating Line Level Signals (Fig. 8)
• Unbalanced Line Level Signals (Fig. 9)

Simple wiring for Servo Bias inputs is also detailed.

Included Accessories

• 55010 microSDHC memory card (16 GB, Speed Class 10, UHS Speed Class 1)
• P1354 dust and moisture plug
• PDRWBC wire belt clip
• M152/5P electret lavaliere microphone

Additional Accessories

• MC35 line level adapter cable (Female XLR to female TA5F)
• MC41 mic level adapter cable (Female XLR to female TA5F)

Specifications

Recording

• Storage media: microSDHC memory card
• File format: .wav files (BWF)
• A/D converter: 24-bit
• Sampling rate: 48 kHz
• Recording modes/Bit rate: HD mono (24/32-bit), Split gain (24/32-bit)

Input

• Type: Analog mic/line level compatible; servo bias preamp
• Input level: Dynamic mic (0.5 mV to 50 mV), Electret mic (2 mV to 300 mV), Line level (17 mV to 1.7 V)
• Input connector: TA5M 5-pin male

Headphone Jack

• Connector: 3.5 mm mini jack; TRS
• Maximum level: -3 dBu (575 mV RMS)

Audio Performance

• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz; +0.5/-1.5 dB
• Dynamic range: 110 dB (A)
• Distortion: < 0.035%

Timecode

• Connector: 5-pin LEMO
• Signal voltage: 0.5 Vp-p to 5Vp-p
• Input impedance: 10 k Ohms
• Format: SMPTE 12M - 1999 compliant

Battery Power/Life

• Power consumption: 300 mW
• Battery type: AAA Lithium (non-rechargeable recommended)
• Operating life: 6.5 hours typical

Operating temperature range

• Celsius: -20 to 50
• Fahrenheit: -5 to 122

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions: 2.37H x 2.14W x 0.67D inches (60H x 54W x 17D mm)
• Weight: 71 grams (2.5 ozs.) with AAA Lithium battery

Available Recording Time

Available recording times vary based on microSDHC card size and recording mode (HD mono or Split gain, 24-bit or 32-bit).

FCC Compliance: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions that prevent harmful interference.

NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with Class B digital device limits. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, or consulting a dealer.

Service and Repair

If your recorder malfunctions, attempt to isolate the trouble before concluding it needs repair. Do not attempt to repair the equipment yourself or have a local shop perform complicated repairs. Send the unit to the factory for repair. Adjustments made at the factory do not require readjustment.

Returning Units for Repair

1. Contact Lectrosonics by email or phone to report the problem, provide the model and serial number, and a contact number.
2. You will receive a return authorization number (R.A.). Clearly show this number on the shipping container.
3. Pack the equipment carefully and ship it prepaid. Insure the equipment for loss or damage.

Lectrosonics USA:

• Mailing address: PO Box 15900, Rio Rancho, NM 87174 USA
• Shipping address: 561 Laser Rd., Suite 102, Rio Rancho, NM 87124 USA
• Telephone: (505) 892-4501, (800) 821-1121 (Toll-free)
• Fax: (505) 892-6243
• Web: www.lectrosonics.com
• E-mail: sales@lectrosonics.com

Lectrosonics Canada:

• Mailing Address: 720 Spadina Avenue, Suite 600, Toronto, Ontario M5S 2T9
• Telephone: (416) 596-2202, (877) 753-2876 (Toll-free)
• Fax: (416) 596-6648
• E-mail: sales@lectrosonics.com (Sales), joeb@lectrosonics.com (Service)

LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY

The equipment is warranted for one year from the date of purchase against defects in materials or workmanship, provided it was purchased from an authorized dealer. This warranty does not cover equipment that has been abused, damaged by careless handling or shipping, or used or demonstrator equipment.

Lectrosonics, Inc. will, at its option, repair or replace any defective parts without charge for parts or labor. If the defect cannot be corrected, the equipment will be replaced with a similar new item at no charge. Lectrosonics, Inc. will pay for the cost of returning your equipment.

This warranty applies only to items returned to Lectrosonics, Inc. or an authorized dealer, shipping costs prepaid, within one year from the date of purchase.

This Limited Warranty is governed by the laws of the State of New Mexico. Lectrosonics, Inc.'s liability is limited to the purchase price of any defective equipment. Specific legal rights may vary by state.