[net.audio] Query: dbx and 4-track recording

srm@pyuxnn.UUCP (01/19/84)

I have a 4-track home recording setup (TEAC 2340 and 2A Mixer, plus
other accesories), to which I would like to add some noise reduction.
The recent discussion in this group re. the two relatively low priced
dbx units (NX-40 and 224, I think I got the numbers right), has peaked
my curiousity. Two tracks in and out are sufficient for most of my
recording, mixing and monitoring. The problem arises when I desire
to mix three tracks (e.g.) down to one on the single four track
machine. Do I need to decode and then re-encode these signals during
such a procedure since I will eventually decode them for a final
mixdown? 

I suppose the question can be more simply stated as follows: Is there
any reason why tracks should not be manipulated (mixed, copied, etc.)
in there encoded state if they will EVENTUALLY be decoded at the end
of the entire recording process? Of course I realize that mixing and
monitoring encoded signals may be a difficult thing to do, but 
assuming I surmount these problems, will the resulting product be
effected negatively?

Please mail responses.

				Steve Marcovici
				..pyuxnn!srm