Introduction Thank you for purchasing this HHB FlashMic. This manual provides all the information you should need to use your FlashMic easily and effectively. We recommend you read through the manual carefully before using your FlashMic for the first time, and to keep it in a safe place for future reference.
Safety Information While the HHB FlashMic has been designed to be robust in normal use, always remember that it is both a high-quality professional microphone and a delicate electronic instrument. As such, a degree of care should be exercised in its handling. • Take care not to subject the FlashMic to mechanical impact, e.g. dropping it or knocking it on hard surfaces. • Use care when opening the battery compartment.
Contents Introduction 1 Safety Information 2 What’s in the box 2 FlashMic Features 4 FlashMic Description FlashMic Display Window 5 6 Batteries 7 7 8 8 Inserting Batteries Battery Management Battery Status Indicator Using the FlashMic 9 Jogswitch Description 9 Switching The FlashMic On 10 Making a Recording 11 PreRecord Buffer (Introduction) 12 Record Lock 12 Monitoring 12 Adjusting Record Level 13 Replaying Tracks 13 Markers 14 Deleting a Track 14 File Transfer 14 Transfer Using Fl
FlashMic Features Your FlashMic combines a professional-quality, omni-directional condenser microphone with an internal digital audio recorder in a single self-contained, selfpowered unit. An extremely simple set of controls make it suitable for completely non-technical users; alternatively, more experienced recordists can access a wide range of additional functionality through menu-based pages on the FlashMic’s LCD display.
FlashMic Description 2 1 3 4 10 USB 11 PHONES MENU 8 9 5 6 7 1 Protective basket (windshield) over mic capsule 2 FlashMic body 3 LCD display – see FlashMic Display Window 4 Main operating control section 5 REC button (G) 6 PLAY button (H) 7 MENU/STOP button (M) 8 Multi-function jogswitch control - see Jogswitch Description 9 Record mode LED (REC LED) 10 USB connector (5 pin Mini-B) 11 PHONES: monitor output (3.
FlashMic Display Window 12 17 00:12:12 Rec 13 16 Play 14 15 12 6-character alphanumeric display 13 4-segment battery status indicator 14 REC flag – indicates FlashMic is in record mode. 15 PLAY flag – indicates FlashMic is in replay mode. 16 16-segment bargraph meter – provides an indication of recording level.
Batteries The FlashMic requires two AA-size batteries. Either 1.5v alkaline or 1.2v NiMH (nickel metal hydride) rechargeable batteries may be used. Batteries of at least 1500mAh capacity are recommended. ! Do not use zinc chloride batteries. Inserting Batteries Hold the FlashMic in one hand and unscrew the rear section (the section with the display and operating controls) with the other. Slide the rear section back as far as it will go. Open the hinged plastic battery compartment cover.
Battery Management Battery life will be maximised if the FlashMic is switched off when not in use, as the power consumed in IDLE mode is virtually the same as in REC mode. The internal clock settings are protected within FlashMic for approximately 1 minute after the batteries are removed. Recorded sound files and configuration settings are not affected by battery removal. Remove any batteries from the FlashMic if it is to be unused for an extended period (more than a month).
Using the FlashMic Jogswitch Description Many of the FlashMic’s operating functions are accessed via the jogswitch on the bottom panel. These include power on/off, navigation through the various internal menus, adjustment of levels, and track selection for replay. Operation of the jogswitch for each specific FlashMic function is described in detail in the section of the manual covering the function. However, because the jogswitch has several physical movements associated with it, an overview is given here.
Switching The FlashMic On The FlashMic is switched on by a SHORT PRESS on the jogswitch, and switched off by a LONG PRESS until the text OFF appears in the display. The FlashMic will turn off when the jogswitch is released. Note that it is not possible to turn the FlashMic off while it is connected to a computer via its USB cable. On switching the FlashMic on, the LCD panel displays in sequence: DRM85 ê Firmware version ê Microphone name ê Active preset.
Making a Recording ! The file format created within the FlashMic includes a record of the date and time at which the recording was made, together with textual information – entered via FlashMic Manager software – to aid later identification of recordings. Nevertheless, it is good recording practice to keep a separate written or electronic recording log during a recording session in the field, as many similar-sounding files may often be created. Keeping such a log is recommended.
PreRecord Buffer (Introduction) In a busy journalistic schedule, it is sometimes difficult - or impossible - to get to the record button quickly enough. The result is a recording that starts a few seconds after the vital bit of information that was needed. The FlashMic incorporates a prerecord buffer of up to 10 seconds (adjustable), which avoids this situation. When the recording is replayed, it will be found that it begins with a few seconds of audio immediately before the REC button was pressed.
Adjusting Record Level ! Adjustment of Record level is only possible if the FlashMic has been set (via the FlashMic Manager software) to permit configuration changes by the user. See the section on FlashMic Manager for more information. The recording level is adjusted with the jogswitch. A SHORT UP TURN or DOWN TURN while in REC mode displays the text RVOLnn, where nn = the current level. (Unlike monitor level, the units are not arbitrary, being increments of approximately 1dB; 01 = min, 40 = max.
Markers It is often useful to mark one (or more) points in a recording for ease of reference during later production and editing. You can add markers to FlashMic recordings in REC mode, while the recording is being made. The markers are ‘data flags’, which are embedded in the sound file at the appropriate point. They will appear as onscreen markers when the downloaded sound files are later loaded into a sound editing package.
Transfer Using FlashMic Manager This assumes FlashMic Manager has already been installed on a computer. See section Installing FlashMic Manager, page 24 if this is not the case. • First determine the location in the computer’s directory structure where the sound files should be transferred to. This may necessitate creating and naming new folders for the purpose. • Open the FlashMic Manager application. (Note the window which opens is not maximisable.) • Switch the microphone on.
Direct Transfer to a Computer As the FlashMic is a generic USB mass storage device, files can be transferred from it to a Mac or PC in the same way as from any other USB mass storage device. ! Do not attempt to format the FlashMic from Mac or PC as the internal file system will be corrupted and any recordings will be lost. Note the example given below applies to a PC running Windows™ XP. Other operating systems differ slightly, if you are unsure about this procedure, please consult your HHB dealer.
FlashMic Menu System The FlashMic’s menu system allows you to adjust internal settings and select various options to suit your specific recording needs. Basic recording, playback and file transfer do not require use of the menu system. Note that some of the menus will only be available to the user if access to them was enabled in the FlashMic Manager software at the time of configuration file definition.
Preset Menu The Preset Menu allows the user to select which preset from the FlashMic’s current configuration file is to be used. The FlashMic’s configuration file can have up to 9 presets. The configuration file is loaded into the FlashMic from a computer, using the supplied FlashMic Manager software. Each preset determines the value of various FlashMic parameters, including recording level and mode, pre-record buffer duration and the file name. (The file name will appear in the header of the audio files.
Recording Mode Menu This menu will not be available if ‘Enable Configuration changes in DRM’ was set to ‘No’ when the configuration file was defined in FlashMic Manager. The Recording Mode menu permits selection of an alternative digital recording format to that determined by the currently selected preset. A total of six recording formats are available within FlashMic; two file formats at each of three sample rates.
Recording Level Menu This menu will not be available if ‘Enable Configuration changes in DRM’ was set to ‘No’ when the configuration file was defined in FlashMic Manager. The audio level used during recording will be that defined within FlashMic Manager for the preset being used. The Recording Level menu permits this level to be altered. To enter the Recording Level Menu, enter MENU mode by pressing the M/STOP button, and then make SHORT DOWN TURNs of the jogswitch until the display shows RECLEV.
Hi-pass Filter Menu This menu will not be available if ‘Enable Configuration changes in DRM’ was set to ‘No’ when the configuration file was defined in FlashMic Manager. The FlashMic’s analogue circuitry includes a hi-pass filter, to assist in the rejection of extraneous low-frequency background noises, such as air-conditioning noise or traffic rumble. The filter has a slope of 12dB/oct. and a turnover frequency of 100Hz.
Delete Menu It is often desirable to delete unwanted recordings (tracks) from the FlashMic’s memory, particularly if they have been made erroneously or are otherwise unusable. The Delete Menu permits the user to do this. Note that any track deleted in this way is deleted permanently and irrecoverably. As tracks are only referred to by their track number on the FlashMic’s LCD display, before deleting a track always ensure you know which one you are trying to delete.
Clock Set Menu The FlashMic contains a real-time calendar/clock, which allows a date and time ‘stamp’ to be embedded in the audio file headers. This is a great aid to later accurate identification of what may be many similar-sounding recordings made in the field. The clock runs continuously whilst batteries are fitted. It continues to run for approx. 1 minute after the batteries are removed, allowing time for a change of batteries.
FlashMic Manager FlashMic Manager is the software application supplied with FlashMic. The CD-ROM that came supplied contains both PC and Mac versions. While it is perfectly possible to use FlashMic without using FlashMic Manager, you will not be using it to its full effectiveness, and will not be accessing the full range of features and functions that FlashMic offers.
Manual Installation instructions. • If, for any reason, the CD does not autostart, open My Computer, and double-click the CD, which will be called FlashMic. • Find the folder titled FMM_Win and copy it to a suitable location on the hard drive. C:\Program Files is a recommended location. • Within this folder is a file named FlashMicManager.exe. Create a shortcut from your desktop to this file. FlashMic Manager can then be launched from this shortcut.
Using FlashMic Manager The user interface of FlashMic Manager opens as shown below: FlashMic Interface Running on a PC FlashMic Interface Running on a Mac 26
Configuration Files and Presets Before you start exploring the features of FlashMic Manager, it is important to understand some basic terminology and the concepts behind the use of presets. Various parameters of the FlashMic’s operation can be changed with FlashMic Manager. A set of parameters is called a preset, and the FlashMic can hold up to 9 presets at any time. The FlashMic user can select whichever is appropriate for the recording application using the menus.
Using the Default Configuration The first time FlashMic Manager is run, a file Defaults.cfg will be created. It will be found in the same folder containing the FlashMic Manager executable file (FlashMicManager.exe). This file differs from other *.cfg files in that its purpose is to provide a convenient set of default parameter values to aid the user in setting up his/her own personalised default configuration file.
FlashMic Manager Window - Features Preset Information Using the default parameter set loaded previously as an example (PSET_1), examine the various items of information now displayed in the window. Items marked ‡ are those uploaded to the FlashMic as part of the preset. Current Config file: The filename displayed here will be that of the currently loaded configuration file. In this case, ‘New’ is displayed because the file has not yet been saved.
Audio Format – confirms selected audio algorithm Sample Rate – confirms selected sample rate Encoded BitRate – confirms effective bitrate of data being written into memory PreRecord Buffer ‡ – drop-down box for setting the duration of the FlashMic’s prerecord buffer in 1 second increments from zero (off) to 10 seconds. (Set to OFF in example) See section on PreRecord Buffer, page 36 for more information.
Other Features and Functions DRM Configuration Enable Configuration Changes in DRM – Setting this to “No” restricts the range of menu options available in the FlashMic itself. Refer to the table within Using the Menus, page 17 to see which parameters will not be alterable by the user. Setting this option to “Yes” enables the full range of menu options. Battery – this drop-down box is for setting the type of batteries being used.
Settings> Set Date and Time: opens “Set Date and Time” dialogue box, permitting the FlashMic’s internal clock to be reset. This clock is used to time-stamp recorded audio files. (Keyboard shortcut: CTRL + T) Note this menu option is unavailable unless a FlashMic is connected to the computer and turned on. Set Date and Time Window Set DRM Name: opens “Set DRM Name” dialogue box, allowing the name of the FlashMic currently connected to be changed (maximum 6 characters). The factory default name is DRM85.
Connecting the FlashMic When connecting the FlashMic to the computer running FlashMic Manager, always ensure the FlashMic is powered and in IDLE mode first. Connect to the computer with the USB cable supplied. When the FlashMic is “recognised”, the FlashMic Manager window will display the parameter values of the currently-selected preset in the FlashMic itself*. The Current Config file: filename will show “File in DRM is ‘xxx.
Creating a New Configuration File To create a different preset (or presets), you must first create a new configuration file. • Click File>New (or enter CTL + N). This clears all the data entry fields and enters ‘New’ as the Current Configuration file name. • Enter data for the first preset (Preset 1) in all data entry boxes in the Current Config file, Preset Configuration and DRM Configuration areas of the window. Note that all these fields are mandatory.
Creating a Personalised Defaults File You may wish to modify the Defaults.cfg file to include parameter values specific to your operation. In this way, when Presets>Set Default Values is selected, your own personalised settings are loaded into the FlashMic Manager data fields. Refer to Modifying an Existing Configuration File and open Defaults.cfg. Modify the data as desired, then Save to the existing Defaults.cfg file name. ! When modifying Defaults.cfg do not change the Preset Custom Name from PSET_1.
PreRecord Buffer The FlashMic incorporates a pre-record buffer of up to 10 seconds (adjustable). When enabled, audio collected by the microphone is constantly being written into a buffer memory – separate from the main memory – at all times as long as the FlashMic is powered. Thus the last few seconds of audio are always already stored inside the FlashMic.
Filename Structure The sound files recorded in FlashMic are .wav files, with filenames made up of three concatenated components separated by underscore characters as follows: MIC NAME_BWF FILE NAME_TRACK NUMBER.wav The three components of the filename are specified in FlashMic Manager as part of a preset definition. After the configuration file containing the preset parameters is uploaded to the FlashMic, some of the textual data that was entered in FlashMic Manager is used to form part of the filename.
Looking at the other filenames in the folder, it can be seen that they all begin with MIC_01, which would be the case if the FlashMic name (DRM Name) was not changed during the course of the recording period, by uploading a new configuration file with a different DRM Name. Some of the files differ in the BWF/MPEG File Name component; this is where the FlashMic was used by – in our example – different recordists, who each selected a different preset. Note finally, that no track number is repeated.
Firmware Updates As a responsible manufacturer, HHB adopts a policy of continuous product development. As with all software-based products, it may be desirable from time to time to update the firmware in your FlashMic with a more recent version. You can contact your HHB dealer or distributor, or visit the FlashMic website at http://www.flashmic.info for details of firmware updates. Firmware updates are downloadable from the FlashMic website, or if you prefer, from your local dealer/distributor on a CD-ROM.
Specifications Sampling Frequency 48kHz, 44.1kHz and 32kHz. Selection by FlashMic Manager or on DRM85. Bit Resolution (Linear) 16 Bit Audio Formats Linear PCM or MPEG 1 Layer 2. Selection by FlashMic Manager software or on DRM85. 6 mode settings. Bit rates (MPEG) 192, 160, 128 kbps Electronics Frequency Response 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 1dB @ 48 kHz FS Linear PCM THD + N < 0.
Polar Diagram and Frequency Response Curve of Microphone Head -20 -30 dBV -40 -50 -60 -70 50 100 100 200 500 1k 1.000 Hz 2k 5k 10k 10.
Notification PRODUCT REGISTRATION Please register ownership of your FlashMic now at http://www.flashmic.info. Registration will enable you to receive software updates and other important FlashMic product news. EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY This equipment conforms to the requirements of the EMC Directive (89/336/EEC) relating to electromagnetic compatibility by the application of:- EN55013:2001 and EN55020:2002.