How to Have Time Code on Your Transcripts

There are benefits to having time code on your transcripts.  Paper edits can make the writing or video edit process much quicker having already selected the relevant clips you want in your video.  A time coded transcript can help your client, producer or legal department distinguish what statements can be included in a video.  At the very least, time coded transcripts make it simple to find your way to the clips you desire on your tape.

In order for us to insert time code stamps on your transcript, you must first capture the time code signal to a format from which we can read.

Capturing During the Live Recording

If you are recording your event or interview on a BetaSP, digiBeta, DVCAM or HDCAM camera, then most likely an SMPTE output exists on the camera.  That time code output can be plugged into the input of a dual channel cassette recorder.  Here's the challenge: where does one find a mobile cassette recorder with dual channel inputs? (a left and right channel).  B&H Photo carries such recorders.  Be careful and thorough when asking your sound technician if he can record the voice on one track and the time code signal on the second track of a cassette.  Many soundmen have been put into a position without knowing until it's too late that they didn't have the right dual input/dual track recorder.

Transferring Audio and Time Code Signals to a Cassette Deck

If your BetaSP or other video tape deck is like the Sony 1800, then you'll find a time code output adapter on the back of the deck.  This output needs to be plugged into one of two record input channels of a cassette tape recorder.

 

Finding a dual input/dual track cassette recorder deck isn't as tough as finding a mobile cassette recorder with the same inputs and record options.  In fact, you're likely to find a dual track cassette recorder with level indicators for each of the two tracks on eBay for less than $50.  Look for a cassette recorder with these options: dual track recording with dual inputs, dual level indicators so you can adjust each of the two tracks and a meter to see what levels each audio track is being recorded at.

It is very important that the cassette track that you are recording the time code signal to is as close to "0" level as possible.  If the time code signal is too hot (too loud) then the signal will be washed out and if it is too muddy (too low) than the transciption equipment might be unable to read the signal.

Dubbing a burnt-in timecode VHS or DVD

This "burnt-in dubbing process can be done if your source tape deck has a timecode "character" generator that will paste in a timecode window timer onto your DVD or VHS.

Contact Information

Telephone 
    703-426-2760

   1-800-966-5571

Electronic mail 
     mmorel@avidproductions.com