The Sony DSR-45A DVCAM VTR offers comprehensive and intelligent features that make it perfect for linear and nonlinear edit environments both. The machine offers the ever-present DV/Firewire/i.LINK connection. It also gives you XLR audio output. For integration in linear suites, Component, Y/C, Composite inputs and outputs are present. Reference video input is there (in the composite input BNC) as is RS-422 and RS-232 (and LANC) machine control connections. There are time code BNC connectors for input and out. Convenience precludes the Monitor Video and Audio connections. Likewise the built-in LCD monitor for menu set-up and video/audio confidence. In addition, the DSR-45P offers one-touch duplication and the ability to preset user bits and time code, all in a compact and lightweight package. The DSR-45A features a larger 2.5-inch LCD screen than the previous mode. All other features, functions and connectors are the same as before.

DVCAM and DV Playback and Record

The DSR-45A offers functionality in the professional DVCAM format as well as the consumer, ubiquitous DV format. Both formats have their advantages. DVCAM offers superior picture quality and greater multi-generational dubbing performance. The DV format offers longer recording duration (maximum 270 minutes versus 180 minutes in DVCAM) and less expensive tape stock prices. This machine lets the user to decide which features are most significant to the end product.

Sony's i.Link Interface

The DSR-45A is equipped with a 4-pin i.Link (DV) interface based on the IEEE1394 standard. The i.Link provides a digital link from the DSR-45 to a variety of compatible equipment including Sony DVCAM decks and third party nonlinear editors. Signals including video, audio, time code, and control can be transferred through this port with virtually no degradation of image or sound quality, which is essential in nonlinear editing. In addition, when a DVCAM cassette with IC memory is loaded into the DSR-45, the ClipLink data recorded on the cassette memory can be uploaded to a nonlinear system.

Conventional, Old School, Linear Editing Compatibility

The DSR-45A puts digital video in analog environments with ease. Component, Y/C, or Composite video are present, both in and out. Linear editing gear can be connected via RS-422, RS-232, and LANC ports. A/B roll editing often requires a reference signal. The DSR-45 can use its composite video in for use as a REF IN. Jam or chase time code with TC in and out BNC connectors.

Easy Duplication Modes

The DSR-45A has three duplication modes which can be set from the menu to copy cassettes:

• Auto Tape Copy with Cassette Memory Copy creates exact duplication of the original tape without the blank segments, and duplicates the memory on the IC chip.
• Auto Tape Copy duplicates the original tape without the blank segments without copying the IC chip information.
• Manual Tape Copy is used to copy the original tape from any position on the tape. The IC chip data is not copied.

2.5-Inch LCD Monitor for Confidence and Set-up

While editing, working images are displayed on the built-in LCD monitor. The DSR-45A has a larger 2.5-inch diagonal screen than the previous model. You may chose to layer the audio level meters on the video, and system status can be shown to simplify the editing process. When setting up the unit for operation, the LCD screen will display the menu options.