Nagra NAGRA 4.2 Instruction Manual - page 18
NOTE:
It is important to lower the head–shield before loading a tape, otherwise the tape may pass behind it,
and thus not be in contact with any of the heads. When the tape has been loaded and lever (32) has
been restored to its original position, the shield may be lifted in front of the heads.
Recording
The Nagra 4.2 can make a recording using either microphones or a "DIRECT" line input signal.
Recording with Microphones
When using microphones, connect them to the two XLR type connectors on the left side of the recorder. If the
QPAU–T/QPU–T microphone preamplifiers are installed in the recorder, check that the switches corresponding
to each of the microphone inputs are in the correct position for the type of microphone being used. The possi-
ble selections are T–power, + 12 V and + 48 V phantom, powering or 200
Ω
dynamic.
The level of the signal coming from the microphones may be observed by putting the machine into the "TEST"
position and switching modulmeter switch (12) to the "LEVEL" position. The gain may now be adjusted using
potentiometers (6) and (7) on the front panel.
Turn the main function selector to either of the two "RECORD" positions, depending upon whether the limiter is
required or not. Observe the modulometer to see that the levels remain correct throughout the recording. The
modulometer indicates in both "RECORD" modes the "DIRECT" signal. It is possible to show the "OFF TAPE" sig-
nal during the recording by moving the "LINE AND PHONES" snap switch to the left.
Depending on the position of "TAPE / DIRECT" switch (1) it is possible to monitor either the input signal, or the
"OFF TAPE" signal on the headphones output during the recording. This is possible because the Nagra 4.2 has
separate heads for recording and playback (moving this switch will not affect the recording).
Recording a Line Signal
Recording a line input signal rather than a microphone signal is very similar to working with microphones. Set
microphone potentiometers (6) and (7) to their fully anti–clockwise position (this is to prevent any noise to be
amplified by the high gain microphone preamplifiers. and recorded on the tape).
Connect the line input signal to line input connector (41) on the left side of the recorder. Set main function
selector (4) to the "TEST" position and adjust the level of the incoming signal on the modulometer by means of
potentiometer (9) marked "LINE AND PLAYBACK". Finally switch the main function selector to one of the
two "RECORD" positions to start the recording. When the recording is completed, select "STOP".
Fast Forward / Rewind
To rewind a tape put the main function selector in the "STOP" position, and open the pinchwheel gate by using
operating lever (32) then select "TEST" and rewind the tape by means of toggle switch (23) located on the top
left front comer of the top deck.
When the tape is fully rewound always place operating lever (32) back in the fully closed position (this will pre-
vent a "flat" portion being made on the capstan "0" ring).