SAY HELLO TO THE 788T!

As I am writing this, I know about a new recorder and you don’t. It’s always nice for dealers to find out before customers, even if it’s just 24 hours. However tomorrow when I post it, EVERYONE will know. Sound Devices has announced the 788T. Preliminary information states Sound Devices will begin shipping in mid May 2008. Based on the very successful 744T, this unit adds tons of functionality to the 7-series line as well as 4 more tracks and inputs. At just $5995.00, the price is nice too! So let me dive in and tell you what makes the 788T different from its predecessors.

The first and most obvious feature is the number of inputs. The 788T has 8 mic/line switchable inputs; 4 on XLR, 4 on TA3M connectors. Mic/Line switching is now a menu option. Each input has its own dedicated gain control, unlike the 744T which only has 2 gain pots and 2 software based volume controls. Secondly, the interface section has grown. The older 7-series recorders could only be connected with Firewire 400 compatible computers. The 788T has file transfer connections for USB 2.0, Firewire 400, and Firewire 800 specifications. Simultaneous recording is available between the larger 160GB Hard Drive, Compact Flash slot, and external Firewire 400. The XL-DVDRAM works with the new recorder as well, creating a daily medium post houses have come to expect. The AES section of the 788T has changed a lot from its older sibling. Instead of AES/SPDIF connections on BNC connections, Sound Devices conserved some space using a 15-pin DB connector for the AES3 I/0. Eight AES inputs and two AES outputs are accessible with this connection. Four additional digital outputs are on two TB3M connectors on the left panel. Also on the left panel are two headphone connections; 1/8th inch TRS like the other 7-series recorders and an additional new 1/4 inch TRS. Four balanced analog outputs (TB3M) and a stereo unbalanced 1/8th inch provide analog outputs 1-6. These outputs are fully matrixed. Any track or input can be sent to any of the outputs. In addition, by selecting the headphone output as 7 and 8, you have eight individual outs. Word Clock connections and Sound Devices C-link connections are the same as the entire 7-series. C-link could create 10, 12, or even 16 tracks of recording, by linking various combinations of the 7-series recorders. Think about 16 tracks for under $12,000! Finally, the size of the recorder. The height is identical to the previous 7-series models, 1.65 inches. It is 10 inches wide and 6.25 inches deep. This is just under the footprint of the 442 mixer from Sound Devices.

I’m heading to NAB next week. I hope to see some of you there. I’ll definitely spend a fair amount of time at Sound Devices booth. I’ll also bring back notes on all the other goodies at the show. Until next time.