MP3 and WAV transcription file timecode question

[Chris Sisson]

I have been working with a transcriber to figure out how what hardware she can use to read the LTC timecode on a stereo track.

We are using the Zoom H4 recorder in the field recieving TC from cam.

Anyone knows what products would work for this?

Here is one product I’m trying to research:

The device is called Easy Reader. Don’t see a model number. Their website is at: https://www.timecode.com/easyreader.html
There’s a picture of the device on their website. Per the webstie: It’s a miniature LTC time code reader with RS-232 interface. Ideal for notebook or laptop computer applications. Operates on a 9V DC battery. Software included in DOS-logging, EDL, programming examples and more. Also included are two HOT-KEY programs which add time code/ user bits to either DOS or Windows applications.

FEATURES:
1. SMPTE/EBU Longitudinal Time Code Reader
2. Operates in 24, 25, 30, Drop and Non Drop Frame
3. RCA connector for time code input
4. 9 pin connector with 2.5′ cable for RS-232 input/output
5. Connects to any RS-232 serial port (IBM, MAC, AMIGA, etc)
6. 9V battery powered (Approximately 25 hours)
7. Weighs 6oz.

Any help is appreciated. Thanks
Chris

[Bouke Vahl]

Never worked with this one, but i have worked with another Telcom reader (VITC and LTC), and that worked just fine.

However, IMHO hardware to do so is a bit outdated, and last time i’ve checked the hardware readers were quite expensive.

Do have a look at this:
https://www.videotoolshed.com/product/27/transcriber-2-dvd

Does not only read LTC but also reads BWF and Mp3 timestamps, and in case of no TC, you can manually set it.

(disclaimer, i’m the author…)

hth,

Bouke

https://www.videotoolshed.com/
smart tools for video pros

[Andrew Bateman]

Hi Bouke,

I was trying out your program because I have an mp3 with a timecode stamped into it but I can’t seem to make it work. The timecode is definitely there because it sounds like a “sewing machine heard through a fan” but the program isn’t reading it.

Does anyone else have any suggestions? This is my first time transcribing mp3s with timecodes and I need to get some transcripts to a client ASAP.

Thanks for any help!

Andrew

[Bouke Vahl]

Matt,
Transcriber can work with a lot of different TC’s.

For you, go into the Preferences.

Set it to Pal / ntsc, whatever it is,

Set it to the desired channel (left or right) where the TC lives
Check the ‘expect TC breaks’ if you are sure there are.
Otherwise, (if you have a lot of files, each file for each take),
it’s just a waste of time since there will be no breaks.

If that fails, send me your file and i’ll have a look.
(my mail adress is on my site)

Let me know if you get it working!

Bouke

https://www.videotoolshed.com/
smart tools for video pros

[Andrew Bateman]

Hey Bouke,

Thanks so much for your help. It worked!
I really appreciate your prompt reply.

Cheers,

Andrew