Top 10 Issues with using a Sound Devices 788t / CL-8 in a Reality Rig

[atlsoundguy]

Top 10 Issues with using a Sound Devices 788t / CL-8 in a Reality Rig

While waiting on my 552 to arrive, I’d been using my 788t on the
reality show I’ve been working on. While it’s a incredible device,
there are some issues that fellow mixers should know about.

My rig consisted of a 788t/Cl-8(firmware v1.76), 3x 411a’s, 2x
UM400a’s for camera hops, 1x Comtek 216 and was NP-1 powered via a
Remote Audio BDSv2.

1. No Return: The 788t has no built-in return. There are two ways
around this issue. One is to reroute a return into one of the input
channels on the 788t, thereby losing a channel or two of inputs. The
other option is to use an external adapter that allows you to A/B the
return and the output of the 788t. Trew Audio made me a custom return
box for $110. That being said, I do wish that Sound Devices would have
built a return into the CL-8.

2. Delay on Faders: There is a noticeable delay on the faders,
especially when quickly ramping the knobs up or down. Apparently this
is due to some short of digital delay inherent in the hardware design.
It takes some getting used to. Sound Devices has told me they think
future Firmware releases may improve this issue and actually solve
this in the future.

3. No Definitive VU Meter: There are lots of lights and LEDs that give
you visual impression of levels, but there is no markings for levels
beyond that of the 0db marking on either the LED VU Meters or on the
LCD VU Meters. (I am told by Sound Devices the LCD VU may change in
future firmwares. Firmware v1.76 did introduce customizable VU meter
ballistics so a user can program the exact level of each LED.)

4. Power Hungry: Simply put, the 788t likes the juice. It will eat up
your lithium NP-1s at a rate much quicker than a 442/552 will. It is
advisable to turn off tracks you are not using to help reduced the
power drain. For a comparison, a 552 draws about 200mw, while the 788t
running full blast can draw up to 1000mw.

5. Heat Buildup: There has been some reports of heat build up. I have
not personally experienced these yet, but I haven’t yet operated my
unit in the hottest part of the summer. According to Jon @ Sound
Devices, the 788t can run very hot without any instances of lockups or
problems. The chassis itself is designed as the heatsink.

6. Custom Cables Needed: You are going need some cables. First you’ll
need at least four TA3f to XLR cables for the inputs. You’ should also
have six more on hand for the outputs for certain situations. Also a
1/8” to stereo XLRs for the 7/8 unbalanced output. If you are going
wireless to UM400a transmitters, I found that I needed two line level
-10db padded TA3f to TA5f. I also found the I needed a non padded TA3f
to 1/8” to drive a Comtek M216. I also had a custom 10pin breakaway
snake made for the 788t with timecode and return built-in.

7. IFB / Routing Issues: Currently, there is no routing option for
sending a summed L/R headphone output mix to an output for an IFB. Jon
tells me this will be changing soon with that and a multitude of other
routing options will be available in an upcoming firmware. Instead, a
workaround is to send all channels to an output and then pot down the
coarse gain to remove the mic from the IFB mix. You could also set up
custom headphone routing to all channel in one ear, and then route
that mix to the IFB output, but I prefer to preserve my L/R mix to the
headphones.

8. No L/R Pan knob: The 788t allows you to send L, R or L/R without
any pan options like the 442/552. It’s not a deal breaker, but when
mixing a single channel, I normally like to split the track over two
channels, with one slightly lower than the other. Jon tells me that
the pan option will be available with the upcoming Panel Mixer for the
788t(!).

9. Arming Track/s interrupts Output Program: If you are turning on/off
tracks to save battery/recording space, be aware that the ALL source
outputs will be interrupted for about a second while the channel
powers up. This is a hardware issue that cannot be fixed. The
workaround is to NOT turn off a channel, and just the coarse gain down
if there is a chance a cast member might come back into scene.

10. Occasional lockups: There have been some reports of random lockups
by enabling certain functions in certain orders. Sound Devices is
working on replicating the lockups and solving the issue. In my
personal experience, I have seen no lockups of my 788t.

11. Odd Shape in a bag: Okay, I know the title of the article says “10
Issues” but I had to at least mention this one. The 788t/Cl-8 takes up
a weird space in a bag. I prefer to put the CL-8 on the bottom of the
788t and pack the inside of my petrol bag with a number of the long
orange cushions to support the bottom open space.

The Wrap Up

While none of the above issues are deal breakers, it is good to be
aware of the issues. The 788t/CL-8 is a powerful combination and
knowing it’s limitations can make a strong rig even stronger.

----------------------------------------

Chris Durfy, ATLaudio.com

You can see the original post and pictures on my blog:
http://blog.chrisdurfy.com/?p=144

More information can be found on the Sound Devices website at:
http://sounddevices.com/products/788t.htm

[glen]

I have struggled with just about everything Chris brings up.

1. No return seems a rather large oversight but honestly,
I do so much wireless to camera work that I seldom
listen to a return.

4. Power. My solution has been to feed all other items
in my bag with NP-1 via BDS box. A separate NP-1
feeds the 788t/CL-8.

7. IFB feed. I found a good solution here to route tracks to AUX 1
and feed that to it's own TA3 out into the Comtek.
Changing the send is easy as pressing the front panel assigns
and they are post fader.

8. Pan knob. A pan knob would be nice. I'm not sure another
menu selectable virtual fader would be the solution I'd need
but my the mere mention on an SD panel mixer always
gets my attention...

11. It is a slightly awkward beast and I chose not to mount the units
together (sounds like you've done the same).
The 'dead space' beneath the CL-8 is now home to my ZAX xmitter.
The hope that it's RF spray is being contained...

Speaking of RF spray...
When I first started using my 788t, I was happy to notice no RF
emissions on my Lectros (411a). In recent testing, I have noticed
the powered CL-8 does emit some broad spectrum low-level RF.
Not as much as the 744t did and nowhere near the level of the ZAX
xmitter but it does make me consider it's placement in the bag.


Glen Piegari

Post by atlsoundguy
Top 10 Issues with using a Sound Devices 788t / CL-8 in a Reality Rig
While waiting on my 552 to arrive, I’d been using my 788t on the
reality show I’ve been working on. While it’s a incredible device,
there are some issues that fellow mixers should know about.
My rig consisted of a 788t/Cl-8(firmware v1.76), 3x 411a’s, 2x
UM400a’s for camera hops, 1x Comtek 216 and was NP-1 powered via a
Remote Audio BDSv2.
1. No Return: The 788t has no built-in return. There are two ways
around this issue. One is to reroute a return into one of the input
channels on the 788t, thereby losing a channel or two of inputs. The
other option is to use an external adapter that allows you to A/B the
return and the output of the 788t. Trew Audio made me a custom return
box for $110. That being said, I do wish that Sound Devices would have
built a return into the CL-8.
2. Delay on Faders: There is a noticeable delay on the faders,
especially when quickly ramping the knobs up or down. Apparently this
is due to some short of digital delay inherent in the hardware design.
It takes some getting used to. Sound Devices has told me they think
future Firmware releases may improve this issue and actually solve
this in the future.
3. No Definitive VU Meter: There are lots of lights and LEDs that give
you visual impression of levels, but there is no markings for levels
beyond that of the 0db marking on either the LED VU Meters or on the
LCD VU Meters. (I am told by Sound Devices the LCD VU may change in
future firmwares. Firmware v1.76 did introduce customizable VU meter
ballistics so a user can program the exact level of each LED.)
4. Power Hungry: Simply put, the 788t likes the juice. It will eat up
your lithium NP-1s at a rate much quicker than a 442/552 will. It is
advisable to turn off tracks you are not using to help reduced the
power drain. For a comparison, a 552 draws about 200mw, while the 788t
running full blast can draw up to 1000mw.
5. Heat Buildup: There has been some reports of heat build up. I have
not personally experienced these yet, but I haven’t yet operated my
Devices, the 788t can run very hot without any instances of lockups or
problems.  The chassis itself is designed as the heatsink.
6. Custom Cables Needed: You are going need some cables. First you’ll
need at least four TA3f to XLR cables for the inputs. You’ should also
have six more on hand for the outputs for certain situations. Also a
1/8” to stereo XLRs for the 7/8 unbalanced output. If you are going
wireless to UM400a transmitters, I found that I needed two line level
-10db padded TA3f to TA5f. I also found the I needed a non padded TA3f
to 1/8” to drive a Comtek M216. I also had a custom 10pin breakaway
snake made for the 788t with timecode and return built-in.
7. IFB / Routing Issues: Currently, there is no routing option for
sending a summed L/R headphone output mix to an output for an IFB. Jon
tells me this will be changing soon with that and a multitude of other
routing options will be available in an upcoming firmware. Instead, a
workaround is to send all channels to an output and then pot down the
coarse gain to remove the mic from the IFB mix. You could also set up
custom headphone routing to all channel in one ear, and then route
that mix to the IFB output, but I prefer to preserve my L/R mix to the
headphones.
8. No L/R Pan knob: The 788t allows you to send L, R or L/R without
any pan options like the 442/552. It’s not a deal breaker, but when
mixing a single channel, I normally like to split the track over two
channels, with one slightly lower than the other. Jon tells me that
the pan option will be available with the upcoming Panel Mixer for the
788t(!).
9. Arming Track/s interrupts Output Program: If you are turning on/off
tracks to save battery/recording space, be aware that the ALL source
outputs will be interrupted for about a second while the channel
powers up. This is a hardware issue that cannot be fixed. The
workaround is to NOT turn off a channel, and just the coarse gain down
if there is a chance a cast member might come back into scene.
10. Occasional lockups: There have been some reports of random lockups
by enabling certain functions in certain orders. Sound Devices is
working on replicating the lockups and solving the issue. In my
personal experience, I have seen no lockups of my 788t.
11. Odd Shape in a bag: Okay, I know the title of the article says “10
Issues” but I had to at least mention this one. The 788t/Cl-8 takes up
a weird space in a bag. I prefer to put the CL-8 on the bottom of the
788t and pack the inside of my petrol bag with a number of the long
orange cushions to support the bottom open space.
The Wrap Up
While none of the above issues are deal breakers, it is good to be
aware of the issues. The 788t/CL-8 is a powerful combination and
knowing it’s limitations can make a strong rig even stronger.
----------------------------------------
Chris Durfy, ATLaudio.com
You can see the original post and pictures on my blog:http://blog.chrisdurfy.com/?p=144
More information can be found on the Sound Devices website at:http://sounddevices.com/products/788t.htm

[glen]

I have struggled with just about everything Chris brings up.

1. No return seems a rather large oversight but honestly,
I do so much wireless to camera work that I seldom
listen to a return.

4. Power. My solution has been to feed all other items
in my bag with NP-1 via BDS box. A separate NP-1
feeds the 788t/CL-8.

5. Heat. Yes it gets warm, hot even, but I've never had
a lock-up. I have observed crashes that I would consider
operator error: Because recovery from a lockup requires
removing power source AND the battery, I've seen folks run
them without a battery attached but not change the low-batt
warning level (menu 88).
They have set themselves up for a power interuption crash and
are blaming the heat...
Note that the charger generates significant heat.
I think good practice is to set charging OFF while unit is ON
(menu 90).

7. IFB feed. I found a good solution here to route tracks to AUX 1
and feed that to it's own TA3 out into the Comtek.
Changing the send is easy as pressing the front panel assigns
and they are post fader.

8. Pan knob. A pan knob would be nice. I'm not sure another
menu selectable virtual fader would be the solution I'd need
but my the mere mention on an SD panel mixer always
gets my attention...

11. It is a slightly awkward beast and I chose not to mount the units
together (sounds like you've done the same).
The 'dead space' beneath the CL-8 is now home to my ZAX xmitter.
The hope that it's RF spray is being contained...
Speaking of RF spray...
When I first started using my 788t, I was happy to notice no RF
emissions on my Lectros (411a). In recent testing, I have noticed
the powered CL-8 does emit some broad spectrum low-level RF.
Not as much as the 744t did and nowhere near the level of the ZAX
xmitter but it does make me consider it's placement in the bag.

Glen Piegari

Post by atlsoundguy
Top 10 Issues with using a Sound Devices 788t / CL-8 in a Reality Rig
While waiting on my 552 to arrive, I’d been using my 788t on the
reality show I’ve been working on. While it’s a incredible device,
there are some issues that fellow mixers should know about.
My rig consisted of a 788t/Cl-8(firmware v1.76), 3x 411a’s, 2x
UM400a’s for camera hops, 1x Comtek 216 and was NP-1 powered via a
Remote Audio BDSv2.
1. No Return: The 788t has no built-in return. There are two ways
around this issue. One is to reroute a return into one of the input
channels on the 788t, thereby losing a channel or two of inputs. The
other option is to use an external adapter that allows you to A/B the
return and the output of the 788t. Trew Audio made me a custom return
box for $110. That being said, I do wish that Sound Devices would have
built a return into the CL-8.
2. Delay on Faders: There is a noticeable delay on the faders,
especially when quickly ramping the knobs up or down. Apparently this
is due to some short of digital delay inherent in the hardware design.
It takes some getting used to. Sound Devices has told me they think
future Firmware releases may improve this issue and actually solve
this in the future.
3. No Definitive VU Meter: There are lots of lights and LEDs that give
you visual impression of levels, but there is no markings for levels
beyond that of the 0db marking on either the LED VU Meters or on the
LCD VU Meters. (I am told by Sound Devices the LCD VU may change in
future firmwares. Firmware v1.76 did introduce customizable VU meter
ballistics so a user can program the exact level of each LED.)
4. Power Hungry: Simply put, the 788t likes the juice. It will eat up
your lithium NP-1s at a rate much quicker than a 442/552 will. It is
advisable to turn off tracks you are not using to help reduced the
power drain. For a comparison, a 552 draws about 200mw, while the 788t
running full blast can draw up to 1000mw.
5. Heat Buildup: There has been some reports of heat build up. I have
not personally experienced these yet, but I haven’t yet operated my
Devices, the 788t can run very hot without any instances of lockups or
problems.  The chassis itself is designed as the heatsink.
6. Custom Cables Needed: You are going need some cables. First you’ll
need at least four TA3f to XLR cables for the inputs. You’ should also
have six more on hand for the outputs for certain situations. Also a
1/8” to stereo XLRs for the 7/8 unbalanced output. If you are going
wireless to UM400a transmitters, I found that I needed two line level
-10db padded TA3f to TA5f. I also found the I needed a non padded TA3f
to 1/8” to drive a Comtek M216. I also had a custom 10pin breakaway
snake made for the 788t with timecode and return built-in.
7. IFB / Routing Issues: Currently, there is no routing option for
sending a summed L/R headphone output mix to an output for an IFB. Jon
tells me this will be changing soon with that and a multitude of other
routing options will be available in an upcoming firmware. Instead, a
workaround is to send all channels to an output and then pot down the
coarse gain to remove the mic from the IFB mix. You could also set up
custom headphone routing to all channel in one ear, and then route
that mix to the IFB output, but I prefer to preserve my L/R mix to the
headphones.
8. No L/R Pan knob: The 788t allows you to send L, R or L/R without
any pan options like the 442/552. It’s not a deal breaker, but when
mixing a single channel, I normally like to split the track over two
channels, with one slightly lower than the other. Jon tells me that
the pan option will be available with the upcoming Panel Mixer for the
788t(!).
9. Arming Track/s interrupts Output Program: If you are turning on/off
tracks to save battery/recording space, be aware that the ALL source
outputs will be interrupted for about a second while the channel
powers up. This is a hardware issue that cannot be fixed. The
workaround is to NOT turn off a channel, and just the coarse gain down
if there is a chance a cast member might come back into scene.
10. Occasional lockups: There have been some reports of random lockups
by enabling certain functions in certain orders. Sound Devices is
working on replicating the lockups and solving the issue. In my
personal experience, I have seen no lockups of my 788t.
11. Odd Shape in a bag: Okay, I know the title of the article says “10
Issues” but I had to at least mention this one. The 788t/Cl-8 takes up
a weird space in a bag. I prefer to put the CL-8 on the bottom of the
788t and pack the inside of my petrol bag with a number of the long
orange cushions to support the bottom open space.
The Wrap Up
While none of the above issues are deal breakers, it is good to be
aware of the issues. The 788t/CL-8 is a powerful combination and
knowing it’s limitations can make a strong rig even stronger.
----------------------------------------
Chris Durfy, ATLaudio.com
You can see the original post and pictures on my blog:http://blog.chrisdurfy.com/?p=144
More information can be found on the Sound Devices website at:http://sounddevices.com/products/788t.htm

[atlsoundguy]

Post by atlsoundguy
4. Power Hungry: Simply put, the 788t likes the juice. It will eat up
your lithium NP-1s at a rate much quicker than a 442/552 will. It is
advisable to turn off tracks you are not using to help reduced the
power drain. For a comparison, a 552 draws about 200mw, while the 788t
running full blast can draw up to 1000mw.

Larry Fisher pointed out that it is mA not mw! Thanks Larry!

[David Carmiggelt]

Post by atlsoundguy
Top 10 Issues with using a Sound Devices 788t / CL-8 in a Reality Rig
While waiting on my 552 to arrive, I’d been using my 788t on the
reality show I’ve been working on. While it’s a incredible device,
there are some issues that fellow mixers should know about.
My rig consisted of a 788t/Cl-8(firmware v1.76), 3x 411a’s, 2x
UM400a’s for camera hops, 1x Comtek 216 and was NP-1 powered via a
Remote Audio BDSv2.
1. No Return: The 788t has no built-in return. There are two ways
around this issue. One is to reroute a return into one of the input
channels on the 788t, thereby losing a channel or two of inputs. The
other option is to use an external adapter that allows you to A/B the
return and the output of the 788t. Trew Audio made me a custom return
box for $110. That being said, I do wish that Sound Devices would have
built a return into the CL-8.
2. Delay on Faders: There is a noticeable delay on the faders,
especially when quickly ramping the knobs up or down. Apparently this
is due to some short of digital delay inherent in the hardware design.
It takes some getting used to. Sound Devices has told me they think
future Firmware releases may improve this issue and actually solve
this in the future.
3. No Definitive VU Meter: There are lots of lights and LEDs that give
you visual impression of levels, but there is no markings for levels
beyond that of the 0db marking on either the LED VU Meters or on the
LCD VU Meters. (I am told by Sound Devices the LCD VU may change in
future firmwares. Firmware v1.76 did introduce customizable VU meter
ballistics so a user can program the exact level of each LED.)
4. Power Hungry: Simply put, the 788t likes the juice. It will eat up
your lithium NP-1s at a rate much quicker than a 442/552 will. It is
advisable to turn off tracks you are not using to help reduced the
power drain. For a comparison, a 552 draws about 200mw, while the 788t
running full blast can draw up to 1000mw.
5. Heat Buildup: There has been some reports of heat build up. I have
not personally experienced these yet, but I haven’t yet operated my
Devices, the 788t can run very hot without any instances of lockups or
problems.  The chassis itself is designed as the heatsink.
6. Custom Cables Needed: You are going need some cables. First you’ll
need at least four TA3f to XLR cables for the inputs. You’ should also
have six more on hand for the outputs for certain situations. Also a
1/8” to stereo XLRs for the 7/8 unbalanced output. If you are going
wireless to UM400a transmitters, I found that I needed two line level
-10db padded TA3f to TA5f. I also found the I needed a non padded TA3f
to 1/8” to drive a Comtek M216. I also had a custom 10pin breakaway
snake made for the 788t with timecode and return built-in.
7. IFB / Routing Issues: Currently, there is no routing option for
sending a summed L/R headphone output mix to an output for an IFB. Jon
tells me this will be changing soon with that and a multitude of other
routing options will be available in an upcoming firmware. Instead, a
workaround is to send all channels to an output and then pot down the
coarse gain to remove the mic from the IFB mix. You could also set up
custom headphone routing to all channel in one ear, and then route
that mix to the IFB output, but I prefer to preserve my L/R mix to the
headphones.
8. No L/R Pan knob: The 788t allows you to send L, R or L/R without
any pan options like the 442/552. It’s not a deal breaker, but when
mixing a single channel, I normally like to split the track over two
channels, with one slightly lower than the other. Jon tells me that
the pan option will be available with the upcoming Panel Mixer for the
788t(!).
9. Arming Track/s interrupts Output Program: If you are turning on/off
tracks to save battery/recording space, be aware that the ALL source
outputs will be interrupted for about a second while the channel
powers up. This is a hardware issue that cannot be fixed. The
workaround is to NOT turn off a channel, and just the coarse gain down
if there is a chance a cast member might come back into scene.
10. Occasional lockups: There have been some reports of random lockups
by enabling certain functions in certain orders. Sound Devices is
working on replicating the lockups and solving the issue. In my
personal experience, I have seen no lockups of my 788t.
11. Odd Shape in a bag: Okay, I know the title of the article says “10
Issues” but I had to at least mention this one. The 788t/Cl-8 takes up
a weird space in a bag. I prefer to put the CL-8 on the bottom of the
788t and pack the inside of my petrol bag with a number of the long
orange cushions to support the bottom open space.
The Wrap Up
While none of the above issues are deal breakers, it is good to be
aware of the issues. The 788t/CL-8 is a powerful combination and
knowing it’s limitations can make a strong rig even stronger.
----------------------------------------
Chris Durfy, ATLaudio.com
You can see the original post and pictures on my blog:http://blog.chrisdurfy.com/?p=144
More information can be found on the Sound Devices website at:http://sounddevices.com/products/788t.htm

Chris, one thing I do not get:you say you use the 788 'untill your 552
arrives'...that is at least an 8 track difference (8+2)..Are you going
back to 2 track recording with that amount of wireless?Regards, David C

[atlsoundguy]

Post by David Carmiggelt
Chris, one thing I do not get:you say you use the 788 'untill your 552
arrives'...that is at least an 8 track difference (8+2)..Are you going
back to 2 track recording with that amount of wireless?Regards, David C

Hey David,

The show I am on at the moment has two mixers, each with three
wireless in the bag. We NEVER have more than 6 mics out between us. So
eight channels is a serious overkill. The 788t only went in the bag
originally because I sold my 442/744t to help buy the 788t and 552 and
waited for the release of my 552.

The reasons I prefer the 552 over the 788t in this situation is
weight, ease of use and finally, I'd rather run around with a $2895
mixer than a $7000 mixer.

-Chris

[Bill White]

Thank you for your very informative review Chris.

I am planning to buy the 788t / CL-8 combo in February, having made that
decision months ago after soliciting views on this forum.

The issues you have raised will not put me off, but it is always better
to know these things beforehand rather than after parting with your
money. Nice to read useful and balanced opinions on RAMPS.

Best wishes,

Bill White
Microphone Magic
Sydney

Post by atlsoundguy
Top 10 Issues with using a Sound Devices 788t / CL-8 in a Reality Rig
While waiting on my 552 to arrive, I’d been using my 788t on the
reality show I’ve been working on. While it’s a incredible device,
there are some issues that fellow mixers should know about.
My rig consisted of a 788t/Cl-8(firmware v1.76), 3x 411a’s, 2x
UM400a’s for camera hops, 1x Comtek 216 and was NP-1 powered via a
Remote Audio BDSv2.
1. No Return: The 788t has no built-in return. There are two ways
around this issue. One is to reroute a return into one of the input
channels on the 788t, thereby losing a channel or two of inputs. The
other option is to use an external adapter that allows you to A/B the
return and the output of the 788t. Trew Audio made me a custom return
box for $110. That being said, I do wish that Sound Devices would have
built a return into the CL-8.
2. Delay on Faders: There is a noticeable delay on the faders,
especially when quickly ramping the knobs up or down. Apparently this
is due to some short of digital delay inherent in the hardware design.
It takes some getting used to. Sound Devices has told me they think
future Firmware releases may improve this issue and actually solve
this in the future.
3. No Definitive VU Meter: There are lots of lights and LEDs that give
you visual impression of levels, but there is no markings for levels
beyond that of the 0db marking on either the LED VU Meters or on the
LCD VU Meters. (I am told by Sound Devices the LCD VU may change in
future firmwares. Firmware v1.76 did introduce customizable VU meter
ballistics so a user can program the exact level of each LED.)
4. Power Hungry: Simply put, the 788t likes the juice. It will eat up
your lithium NP-1s at a rate much quicker than a 442/552 will. It is
advisable to turn off tracks you are not using to help reduced the
power drain. For a comparison, a 552 draws about 200mw, while the 788t
running full blast can draw up to 1000mw.
5. Heat Buildup: There has been some reports of heat build up. I have
not personally experienced these yet, but I haven’t yet operated my
Devices, the 788t can run very hot without any instances of lockups or
problems. The chassis itself is designed as the heatsink.
6. Custom Cables Needed: You are going need some cables. First you’ll
need at least four TA3f to XLR cables for the inputs. You’ should also
have six more on hand for the outputs for certain situations. Also a
1/8” to stereo XLRs for the 7/8 unbalanced output. If you are going
wireless to UM400a transmitters, I found that I needed two line level
-10db padded TA3f to TA5f. I also found the I needed a non padded TA3f
to 1/8” to drive a Comtek M216. I also had a custom 10pin breakaway
snake made for the 788t with timecode and return built-in.
7. IFB / Routing Issues: Currently, there is no routing option for
sending a summed L/R headphone output mix to an output for an IFB. Jon
tells me this will be changing soon with that and a multitude of other
routing options will be available in an upcoming firmware. Instead, a
workaround is to send all channels to an output and then pot down the
coarse gain to remove the mic from the IFB mix. You could also set up
custom headphone routing to all channel in one ear, and then route
that mix to the IFB output, but I prefer to preserve my L/R mix to the
headphones.
8. No L/R Pan knob: The 788t allows you to send L, R or L/R without
any pan options like the 442/552. It’s not a deal breaker, but when
mixing a single channel, I normally like to split the track over two
channels, with one slightly lower than the other. Jon tells me that
the pan option will be available with the upcoming Panel Mixer for the
788t(!).
9. Arming Track/s interrupts Output Program: If you are turning on/off
tracks to save battery/recording space, be aware that the ALL source
outputs will be interrupted for about a second while the channel
powers up. This is a hardware issue that cannot be fixed. The
workaround is to NOT turn off a channel, and just the coarse gain down
if there is a chance a cast member might come back into scene.
10. Occasional lockups: There have been some reports of random lockups
by enabling certain functions in certain orders. Sound Devices is
working on replicating the lockups and solving the issue. In my
personal experience, I have seen no lockups of my 788t.
11. Odd Shape in a bag: Okay, I know the title of the article says “10
Issues” but I had to at least mention this one. The 788t/Cl-8 takes up
a weird space in a bag. I prefer to put the CL-8 on the bottom of the
788t and pack the inside of my petrol bag with a number of the long
orange cushions to support the bottom open space.
The Wrap Up
While none of the above issues are deal breakers, it is good to be
aware of the issues. The 788t/CL-8 is a powerful combination and
knowing it’s limitations can make a strong rig even stronger.
----------------------------------------
Chris Durfy, ATLaudio.com
http://blog.chrisdurfy.com/?p=144
http://sounddevices.com/products/788t.htm

[Bill White]

Hello Chris,

Presuming you have had your 552 in service for a while now, I was
wondering what's your impression of it having previously used the 788t.

Aside from the obvious limitation of a 5 input mixer and 2 channel
recorder, versus an 8 x 8 has it been a joy or disappointment for you?

Best regards,

Bill White
Sydney
Australia

[atlsoundguy]

Post by Bill White
Hello Chris,
Presuming you have had your 552 in service for a while now, I was
wondering what's your impression of it having previously used the788t.
Aside from the obvious limitation of a 5 input mixer and 2 channel
recorder, versus an 8 x 8 has it been a joy or disappointment for you?
Best regards,
Bill White
Sydney
Australia

At this point, I only use my 788t when the situation demands. I love
the 552 as a a reality mixer. It's lighter, more ergonomic, easier to
use and uses WAY less power than the 788t.

Joy Joy!

-Chris

[Charles Tomaras]

Post by Bill White
Hello Chris,
Presuming you have had your 552 in service for a while now, I was
wondering what's your impression of it having previously used the 788t.
Aside from the obvious limitation of a 5 input mixer and 2 channel
recorder, versus an 8 x 8 has it been a joy or disappointment for you?
Best regards,
Bill White
Sydney
Australia

I feel like I have the best of both worlds now with the 552/788t combo in
the bag. With the tape out feeding L/R and the direct outputs feeding 3-7 on
the 788t I can do most everything I can imagine and still have an additional
two track recorder to fall back on in the 552. The 552 makes a very nice
front end for the 788 providing plenty of inputs and the plethora of output
options one needs these days.

[Artur]

I have used the 788 on a "Bare bones, run and gun" reality show with
two Sony EX3 cameras.
I transmitted to both cameras with LMa's and SR receivers and homemade
2-9v power supplies,
My boom (mostly Schoeps cardiod, Rode NG-3 in the rain)
on Rch, radio mic mix on L, to both; Schoeps CMC641 in a good shock
mount
instead of my boom feed on Rch on the B camera that went away to
follow action.
Post barely touched the iso tracks amazingly.
All i could do the was drop the output level 4db to the radio mix feed
then -now I'd be excited
about the limiters selectable on v. 1.76 IF they didn't link every
time I power down!
Fortunately (I guess) we are pretty much powered up all day so i can
catch it, till the update....

1. I had no time to monitor a return on that show -main camera wore
hook-style earbuds, thank god.
I have only used a return on formal "host"-driven shows where the
camera op refused to wear headphones
(He did do a lot of Steadicam...)

2 .I didn't notice the fader delay - but is the same issue what people
are noticing about the 552?

3.i am going to customize my own Meter display - the zoom default in
1.76 is too small and coarse.

4. Yes, it is power hungry -I used 3 and a half IDX lithium NP1's a
day running the 788/ BD3 ,
LMA's and a SR and two 401 rcvrs

5. I had some balks with one firmware version , but I did allow air
circulation all around the 788 from the beginning.

6. How do we tell the non -knock off TA3's?They seem brittle...

7. I used the ch 5/6 1/8" trs output for a Sennheiser G2 feed for
the director to monotorand made a "Y" cable w to to repatch and
choose from 5 or 6
BUT I found the Neutrik right angle worked it's way out constantly
- . At least they got the boom feed when the connector did work
out...I have to solve this.
I have used a passive l or Rch ch to both ears headphone switch box
for 20 years - since the first DAT portables-
and still do with the 788 -though I don't need it with a 442 or
302 with that top mounted monitor switch
Love to see one on a 788 -I can't get to the 788 knob easily enough
to switch monitor choices , booming all the time....
but i can hit my switch box with my left hand.
I guess I got dependent on Mono monitoring with Nagras.

9. I hate that drop out when powerering a ch up/down -
but I've managed to mute with the menu/ff button with V1.76
That doesn't reduce power consumption or track count , though

11. I'll add my biggest issue with the 788 -the vast low end of these
preamps!
I have needed my phantom powered Schoeps 80hz bass roll offs ahead of
them WITH the
built in 80hz/12db per octave roll off selected -
on my boom channels to reduce handling rumble from the first take!
They are totally unforgiving compared to a 442 's pre-amps , by
comparison.
How about an 18db per octave roll off , Sound Devices?
(or more- since I effectively have 24 db poll of with this combo now,
do I not?)
It would lighten the bag a bit for we one-handed boomers...

[Artur]

Don' t tell me the CL-8 causes RF!
The 788 was such a relief after the 744.
Please, Sound Devices : how about full disclosure about these
emissions
like you did for the 744.
I was really looking forward to bigger faders -(though I hear they're
too close together...)
and we need to use gloves in the winter up here!
(you think they'd understand that in Wisconsin...)
Would ferrites help on the usb cable?

[Charles Tomaras]

Post by Artur
Don' t tell me the CL-8 causes RF!
The 788 was such a relief after the 744.
Please, Sound Devices : how about full disclosure about these
emissions
like you did for the 744.
I was really looking forward to bigger faders -(though I hear they're
too close together...)
and we need to use gloves in the winter up here!
(you think they'd understand that in Wisconsin...)
Would ferrites help on the usb cable?

I've had ZERO RF issues with my CL-8 and believe me I am sensitive to RF
issues and stay very vigilant.

[dre_sound]

Post by Charles Tomaras

Post by Artur
Don' t tell me the CL-8 causes RF!
The 788 was such a relief after the 744.
Please, Sound Devices : how about full disclosure about these
emissions
like you did for the 744.
I was really looking forward to bigger faders -(though I hear they're
too close together...)
and we need to use gloves in the winter up here!
(you think they'd understand that in Wisconsin...)
Would ferrites help on the usb cable?

I've had ZERO RF issues with my CL-8 and believe me I am sensitive to RF
issues and stay very vigilant.

i have been using my 788t with cl8 for over a year with no problems.
i haven't gotten any RF issues. i usually power my 788 with 3 to 5
lectros with np1's and i usually only switch batteries once a day. it
does tent to heat up but it has never locked up on me. i got a custom
cable made so i have my camera return on 7/8 which i have stereo
paired.
i use the Sound devices bag and it fits perfect for my taste, with the
np's under the cl8

http://www.flickr.com/photos/dreriv/3725538500/in/set-72157623147950123/

[Artur]

Whew -glad to hear that -but I wonder what Glen is experiencing?
is audio routed through the CL-8 or is it just controlling "servos" in
the 788?

I guess I'm conservative about changing lithium batteries -if you can
do it at more than 40% left-
doesn't it almost double their life?
We had a PA to run for fresh ones -and would get into half hour takes
so often I hate
worrying about dying.
Do you keep 9v's in your 411"s for backup?
One of the trade offs with SR,s - no internal power.... I have had to
unconnect the 788 from the BDS
to switch to it's internal battery and keep the receivers going on the
NP-L7 during these marathons.

[Charles Tomaras]

"Artur" <***@hfx.eastlink.ca> wrote in message news:add72da0-6a21-4f24-ab2f-***@c4g2000yqa.googlegroups.com...
\

Post by Artur
Do you keep 9v's in your 411"s for backup?
One of the trade offs with SR,s - no internal power.... I have had to
unconnect the 788 from the BDS
to switch to it's internal battery and keep the receivers going on the
NP-L7 during these marathons.

Each SR draws considerably less power than two 411's. I worked for so many
years with four 205's in my bag that I've very used to not having batteries
in my receivers.

I've suggested to Glen Trew that they consider building a BDS with a small
battery that has enough capacitance to handle a quick battery change without
going down. Maybe something like that in the future.