Timecode Sync Tascam HDP2 with EPIC

[Marc Wielage]

The SB-3 will technically work, but the slightly-more-expensive SB-T adds a tri-level sync output, which would be needed if you used multiple Red cameras. Full specs at this link.

Denecke's products are top-notch and very stable, and the little generator boxes like this use very little battery power -- they'll go for a couple of days with no problem.

[Shawn Nelson]

So if I bought the SB-T then I wouldnt need a lockit box? Or I still would?

[Steve Johnson]

I also have the HDP2 and an Epic and would love to figure out how to use them both. So far I've only used the HDP2 in a dumb slate scenario and that's a pain, I'd love to have auto syncing.

So... could I buy a $500 TC generator like this: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...Generator.html
Use that to jam sync the Epic and then attach the TC generator to the Tascam and off we go?

Where would something like a lockit box fit into the equation? http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...evel_Sync.html

Hey Shawn,

I;ve got my audio guys working on this at the moment and he's speaking with Tascam directly.

One option, a wired one, would be to use the 3BNC to 00 Sync Cable and use a BNC adaptor to XLR adaptor to go into the timecode on the Tascam.

There is another solution I am looking at. I was directed to a company who have created a timecode system called Timecode Buddy - http://www.timecodebuddy.com/

I am speaking to them today about their solution. At the moment, launch seems to be around March (or NAB), and the prices are about £675 for master unit and £245 for the TX unit. When I get some more information, I'l post something maybe later this evening. They apparently going against the Ambient solutions etc. so might be an interesting solution.

The wired solution is okay in a short term for me if that works, as I'm planning on doing a number of interviews which need the sync sound, then I can use wild tracks for cut aways, etc, so not so much of a big deal for me in the short term. I am looking for a wireless solution in the long terms.

Will report back the Timecode Buddy solution when I speak to the guys today.

:))

[Shawn Nelson]

Fantastic! Thanks!

Though wouldnt a timecode buddy be comparable to just buying that timecode generator and the lockit?

[Steve Johnson]

Fantastic! Thanks!

Though wouldnt a timecode buddy be comparable to just buying that timecode generator and the lockit?

Hi Shawn,

Well yes. I am looking at them soon, maybe a pre-production version so it things work out, I am talking to the guys about a REDuser group discount if that helps???

:))

[Steve Johnson]

Okay.

I'm going to be trying a wired option, which is to use the 3BNC to 00 Sync Cable and use a BNC adaptor to XLR adaptor to go into the timecode on the Tascam. Going to be trying that out in the next 2 weeks. Words from Tascam is that it will work - we'll see.

Will try and get a Timecode Buddy unit to test around the same time.

:))

[Joel Arvidsson]

Does any body got this working yet?

[Dave Neathery]

I have 2 Epics, an HD-P2, the 3BNC cables from Red and even a BNC to XLR-3 timecode cable. The basic problem remains: There is no Timecode output from the Epic, and the HD-P2 also has no TImecode out. So, I can send the output from my Tri-level sync generator to both but without an external Timecode to feed both with... no go. In my case, I got the 3BNC cables today and the recorder last night, so I haven't had a chance to see if with external sync they will at least not drift over time.

[Mike Paul]

If you're going to use the HD-P2 with an Epic, then you must feed the HD-P2 constant timecode. While the HD-P2 has the ability to "freewheel" timecode if the source is disconnected, the internal generator of the HD-P2 is not accurate enough to hold sync for any length of time.

A dedicated sync box, like the Denecke SB-3 / SB-T / GR-2 or the Ambient ACL202/203 would allow you to jam-sync the Epic and then feed code directly to the HD-P2. This method would have the advantage of not being permanently tethered to the Epic, where available real-estate is at a minimum. You'll have to remember to re-jam the Epic after every power cycle, but the accuracy should remain pretty good.

You can go with a wireless solution like the Lockit Buddy, or really any wireless system assuming you have a good source, but you'll need designate one thing as your TC Master (Denecke, Ambient, Wireless) and stick to it.