The D24 is a multitrack digital recording and editing system that uses 3.5 inch 640MB magneto-optical (MO) disks. The three rack space D24 is capable of 16, 20 and 24-bit recording of eight simultaneous tracks with either 44.1 or 48kHz sample rates. At 96kHz sample rates, you can record/play four tracks only. Specifically built to replace or use with modular digital eight track machines, you'll have the extra abilities of non-linear editing, removable non-magnetic media and random access.

Up to eight D24's can be synchronized together for 64 tracks of simultaneous recording. I should point out that each of the eight tracks has eight "virtual" tracks from which you would "comp" or compile a final track. Editing functions include: erase, delete, copy insert, copy replace, move insert, move replace, loop and merge. Track slipping is easy with the D24 as is time compression and expansion from 50 to 200%.

The MO disk has the distinct advantage of zero head-to-disk contact, a sturdy protective housing, and non-susceptibility to stray external magnetic fields since the disk relies on the Curie effect to write data to the optical media. Recording time at 44.1kHz sample rate for eight tracks is 15 minutes...plenty of time for a couple of pop songs. When you are finished, you won't have to "back up" the data, you just pull the disk out and go or put in a fresh one and keep on tracking.

The D24 will sync to just about anything including MTC, SMPTE, video sync and word clock. You can control with MMC or Sony 9-pin (RS422) protocol or with the optional remote control. Digital audio interface is possible with ADAT, T/DIF, AES/EBU or use the good 'ol analog inputs.