Nagra V

Last modified: August 30, 2004

For over 50 years NAGRA recorders have established a well-deserved respect from audio professionals all over the world. No other name carries the industry-wide reputation of reliability, audio quality, engineering precision and aesthetic details.

As a digital successor to the renown analog NAGRA IVS-TC and replacement for the portable timecode R-DAT recorders, the new NAGRA V carries on this time-honored tradition. The result is a two-track direct-to-disk location recorder using a removable sealed hard drive that records 24 or 16-bit linear PCM data at selectable 44.1 or 48kHz (88.2 and 96kHz optional) with audio stored in a standard broadcast WAV format. A compact lightweight frame with a user-friendly front-panel make the NAGRA V ideal for over-the-shoulder operation / on-location. Its high quality also makes it a good alternative for music recordings.

BWF is a Wav file that includes information such as Time Code. BWF is normalized by the EBU (European Broadcast Union) and recommended by the AES31 (AES31-3-1999). While BWF is recognized by both PC and MAC as a standard WAV, professional software and workstations will see the TC related information (compatible with AATON Indaw ver. 6 under NT, Digidesign, Protools since ver. 5, Mergin Technologies Pyramix, Fairlight MFX and QDC, Sadie)

The NAGRA V has four analog inputs (2 mic and 2 line) each routable to either audio track, as well as two AES channels. With a convenient pre-roll / pre-record feature, selectable for up to 20 seconds, you will never be too late to start a recording. Auto record allows automatic start recording depending on the settings of different parameters. Once the parameters are set, put the machine in record mode and the recording will start once the requested level and length of any incoming sound is obtained. Metering is achieved by means of a digitally driven analog modulometer with a memory peak hold feature using a real moving needle combined with a signal-present LED for each channel. Headphone monitoring can be stereo / mono (left only, right only) with an internal M/S decoder. In addition to a tape return stereo input for video camcorder monitoring, the NAGRA V also has a built-in monitor speaker. The audio quality offered by the NAGRA V is exceptional, thanks to the design of the entire analog chain and careful attention to signal processing.

Today, the challenge for a manufacturer of location recorders is not only to produce the highest quality acquisition, but to deliver it on a media that is reliable and directly adaptable to existing computer interfaces, in a non-proprietary format that is easily understood by the host software. Responding to this challenge NAGRA has chosen the standard 2.5" ATA-5 compliant Hard Disk Drives in a removable drawer, to store audio in a digital linear Broadcast WAV format, providing direct file access. Downloading files is very fast and simple by connecting the removable drawer to a PC or MAC using USB2 or Firewire interface cable. The hard drive drawer can also be plugged into a 3.5" IDE bay.

Additional feature of the NAGRA V include dithering from 24 to 16-bit for backup on a DAT or CD recorder and optional available SMPTE Time Code generator and chase synchronizer for all current frame rates and video master reference with pull-up and down for post production. Other available options are 88.2 / 96kHz high sampling, analog limiters for the microphone preamplifiers, double metering and a full line of accessories.

NAVCOM, a Windows based application, provides graphical feedback and operational control through the RS422 interface. It includes remote meter display, a directory containing detailed information of each take, metadata and file naming and the ability to change Time Code, synchronizer and audio settings.

The light snap-on 65w Lithium Ion battery pack with its own charger circuit supplies a full 10 hours of autonomous power. Other powering options include a battery pack for 8 standard "D" cells or rechargeable Ni-Cd and Ni-Mh cells. The NAGRA V can also accept external DC up to 14.8V from a standard AC/DC adapter or external batteries.

Manufactured using a brushed anodized aluminum chassis, the NAGRA tradition of rugged reliability in hostile environments is guaranteed. Its operation and features offer a friendly transition from traditional analog to newer digital technologies making the NAGRA V the most practical and flexible NAGRA ever.

The standard rotary main function selector controls the main operational features of the machine, keeping the ergonomics of traditional NAGRA models.

The menu-assisted set-up for all the operating parameters of the NAGRA V is made using the keys on the front panel, in conjunction with the LCD display. Specific settings can be stored and instantly recalled by using templates.

The shift key allows for a multitude of practical direct access functions - even while recording. RECORD takes priority from any operational mode and it will never-ever record over an existing take.

Technical specifications:

RECORDING
Data Storage medium Removable 2.5" Hard Disk Drive, FAT 16 / 32 formatted OPTION: Internal Hard Disk Drive
Recording method Linear PCM
File Format Broadcast Wave File BWF (BWF)
A/D and D/A conversion 24 bit Sigma Delta
Sampling Frequencies 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, (88.2kHz and 96kHz optionally)
Recording capacity Almost 1hr of 24 bit 48 kHz per GB
Pre-recording buffer User programmable up to 20 sec.
Level meter Digitally driven analog modulometer with HOLD feature

INPUTS
Microphone inputs 2 x XLR (Dynamic, "T" Powering and +48V Phantom) Expandable to 4 if required using external accessory
Microphone input sensitivity 0.2, 10 and 40 mV/Pa
Line inputs 15 pin miniature "D" connector
Line input sensitivity 1.5V to 4.4V for 0 dB recording
Digital input Using special cable on 15 pin miniature "D" connector
Input filters "Flat", "LFA" and "SPEECH"
External reference 15 pin miniature "D" connector or BNC (Word clock, video, etc.)
Limiters (optional) Selectable for each channel

OUTPUTS
Analog line output 2 x XLR (4,4V max)
THD at 1 kHz 0.1%
Dynamic range Typical 98 dB
Frequency response 30Hz to 20 kHz (+0 dB -1 dB) at 48kHz
Headphones Stereo " Jack with level adjust
Mono output Banana connectors (600 Ohms)
Digital output XLR AES-3 Pro
Time code IN/OUT 5 pin LEMO
M/S Decoder Switchable
Dither Menu selectable 24/16 bits on Inputs and/or Outputs

POWER SUPPLY
Li-Ion pack 10 hours of operation (7 hours on 8 "D" cells)
DC power 6 - 13,8V on 4-pin XLR

GENERAL
Dimensions 290 x 220 x 115mm (11.4 x 8.6 x 4.5")
Weight 2.75 kg (6 lb) without battery box
Quality control Every machine is tested: 1 cycle 14F to +140F for 12 hours
Power consumption 10W
Relative humidity From 10% to 99% (non-condensing)