The Fostex D-20 DAT Recorder is a professional two-track digital master recorder designed around the DAT standard for studio, broadcast, film, and television use. Built to operate with the familiarity of a conventional analogue reel-to-reel master recorder, the Fostex D-20 combines digital precision with a traditional transport-based workflow, making it suitable for engineers transitioning from analogue recording environments.
At its core, the Fostex D-20 employs a four-head rotary DAT transport system. This design enables off-tape monitoring, seamless punch in and punch out operation, and independent recording of SMPTE or EBU timecode. The heads are arranged to allow precise tape handling and accurate editing, with separate leading and trailing head pairs supporting both recording and playback functions.
The recorder supports 16-bit linear digital recording at selectable 44.1kHz and 48kHz sampling rates, using standard metal powder DAT cassettes. Error correction is handled using Double Reed-Solomon coding, ensuring reliable data integrity during recording and playback. The DAT format allows long recording times of up to 120 minutes on compatible tapes while maintaining consistent audio quality.
Professional connectivity is provided throughout. Balanced analogue inputs and outputs are presented on XLR connectors, with nominal operating levels aligned to professional studio standards. AES/EBU digital input and output are also included on XLR connectors, allowing direct digital interfacing with mixers, converters, and digital routing systems. Monitor and headphone outputs are provided for direct signal auditioning.
For synchronised operation, the Fostex D-20 includes SMPTE and EBU timecode input and output, a dedicated BNC sync input, and parallel interface connections for use with external synchronisers such as the Fostex 4030. An RS-422A remote control port is also provided, enabling integration into larger automated or remote-controlled systems.
Designed as a rugged and reliable professional recorder, the Fostex D-20 became widely used as a digital stereo mixdown recorder, mastering deck, and synchronised digital slave machine in professional recording, broadcast, and post-production environments.
Features
- Professional two-track DAT digital master recorder
- Four-head rotary DAT transport design
- Off-tape monitoring capability
- Seamless punch in and punch out operation
- Independent SMPTE and EBU timecode recording
- Selectable 44.1kHz and 48kHz sampling rates
- 16-bit linear digital recording
- Balanced analogue inputs and outputs on XLR connectors
- AES/EBU digital input and output
- External sync and parallel interface support
- RS-422A remote control capability
- Designed for studio, broadcast, film, and television applications
