E-mu Systems Darwin Model 4002

January 18, 1996 -- E-mu Systems(R), Inc. today announced the release of a new model DARWIN 8-track Digital Audio Disk Recorder. The DARWIN model 4002 is the first random access multi-track recorder/editor to feature an integrated 1GB Iomega Jaz disk drive. Each removable 1GB Jaz cartridge provides DARWIN with 180 track minutes of 16bit, 44.1kHz recording, and full access to DARWIN's powerful editing capabilities.

DARWIN is a stand-alone unit featuring screen-based digital audio workstation (DAW) style recording/editing, tape-based system ease-of-use, and a price point competitive with ADAT and DA-88 modular multitrack digital recorders. The DARWIN 8-Track Digital Audio Disk Recorder is now available in 3 models from authorized E-mu(R) dealers worldwide. Model 4000 (with out hard disk drive) at a suggested US retail price of $ 3,195, Model 4001 (with a fixed 1GB disk drive) at $3,795, and Model 4002 (with 1GB removable disk drive) for $3,995.

E-mu Systems is a leading manufacturer of innovative digital musical instruments and audio solutions for multimedia. E-mu audio products are used extensively on a global basis by professional musicians, sound designers and audio engineers.

"Many people who have wanted to use disk based recording/editing systems have been scared off by their high price, steep learning curve and the need to back up and restore the hard disks to tape. DARWIN's low price point and tape machine-style user interface overcomes the first two objections. By combining the Iomega Jaz drive with DARWIN, we eliminated the need for back up and restore." said Matt Ward, E-mu Systems director of marketing for audio products. "With Jaz, an unlimited number of audio projects can be shuffled in a matter of seconds, by simply changing Jaz cartridges. This technology will change the way people record and produce audio. E-mu is very excited to be the first company to market with a multi-track recording product that incorporates Jaz."

DARWIN 8-track Digital Audio Disk Recorder

The DARWIN 8-track Digital Audio Disk Recorder bridges many of the traditional differences separating computer-based DAWs and tape-based recording systems on the basis of feature sets, functionality and price.

The first principle of the DARWIN design is to make random access digital audio technology more accessible. Users familiar with the operation of a multi-track recorder will have an intuitive understanding of "DARWINian" operation. The unit's dedicated tape machine-style control buttons, record arm switches, locate buttons and jog/shuttle wheel, mimic the interface of a conventional multi-track recorder. DARWIN features an icon-based graphic user interface, a 240x64 graphic display and six soft keys to provide powerful DAW-style editing. The unit's streamlined appearance reduces front panel clutter, delivers clear access to all other product functions and provides flexibility for easy software feature enhancements.

A computer system is not necessary to utilize the power of DARWIN's random access recording capabilities. No additional monitor, keyboard, or hardware for audio I/O is required. Users may also avoid system compatibility conflicts or the need for add-in cards, boxes, and cable inherent to computer-based solutions.

When used by itself, DARWIN is a powerful stand-alone recorder/editor. DARWIN also serves as a perfect partner to either of the popular digital multitracks on the market today. DARWIN adds random access recording, editing, and additional tracks to tape-based systems. By adding the ADAT digital optical interface option, audio can be kept entirely in the digital domain.

Finally, DARWIN's low price point makes it affordable for most studio environments. Unlike many computer-based systems, whose base prices do not accurately reflect the true cost of an entire system, DARWIN is completely self contained.

DARWIN Random Access Recording Technology

With the advent of the Emulator(R) digital sampler in 1980, E-mu has revolutionized digital sampling technology by making high-end functionality affordable to a much larger market segment. What the Emulator was to digital sampling then, DARWIN is to random access recording technology today.

DARWIN 's true power lies in non-destructive editing capabilities, a component of which, is the Virtual Slave Reel_ tVSR) function. The VSR function makes it possible to instantly create project versions with tracks that can be edited, moved in time, or recorded over without changing the original. The DARWIN advantage allows users to create multiple versions of a project-with completely different edits or different recorded "takes"- and quickly compare them.

VSR may also be used to effectively expand DARWIN's number of tracks through a process of non-destructive digital bouncing and recombination. The operation of creating new tracks and submixes is limited only by available disk space.

DARWIN's multiple levels of undo and redo provide users with a "safety net" during recording and editing. Any track edited or recorded-over by accident or intentionally, may be resurrected immediately. During the editing process, 40 instantly recallable auto locate points offer precision and convenience. This eliminates the time normally wasted during rewinding and shuttling tape-based machines and maximizes productivity.

DARWIN Input/Output/Mixing

DARWIN features 4 balanced analog input jacks (1/4" TRS) and 8 balanced analog output jacks (1/4" TRS). Input jacks may be increased to 8, by adding an input expansion card. Inputs and outputs can be selected for either +4db (professional) or -10dB (semi-pro) operating levels. A single 50-pin SCSI port for connection to external data storage is provided standard on each unit. For those wishing to remain completely in the digital domain, S/PDIF Digital input/output is also a standard feature. DARWIN is also equipped with an internal 8x2 digital mixer with pan capabilities for creation of an independent headphone mix and level/pan control during internal digital bounces.

DARWIN Standard Features: