Sound Devices 833 8-Channel / 12-Track Multitrack Field Recorder

Sound Devices 833 8-Channel / 12-Track Multitrack Field Recorder

For filmmakers, field recordists, and sound designers who need pristine audio capture of up to six microphones, convenient automixing, and safe, redundant recording, the Sound Devices 833 multitrack field recorder is an ideal tool that puts the essence of the flagship Scorpio into a more compact and affordable form.
32-bit A/D converters allow you to avoid distortion and undue noise at virtually any input level. Utilize the internal 256GB SSD and up to two SD cards to record up to eight tracks of external sources plus four buses at up to 192 kHz, and route custom mixes to the camera and crew while driving headphones and a headset. Thanks to its handles and integrated 1/4″-20 threads, the 833 can be placed in a sound bag, attached to a camera/tripod, or even slung from a shoulder/neck strap.

In addition to the large channel knobs, channel trims, PFL switches, and transport joystick, a sunlight-readable color touchscreen ensures user-friendly access to all settings. From the six high-gain, ultralow-noise mic/line preamps and 8-channel Dugan Automixing to the extremely powerful routing and sonic processing, everything about the 833 is optimized for peak audio performance and maximum workflow efficiency.

Accurate timecode synchronization and numerous powering options make the 833 adept at handling the varied demands of modern productions. For enhanced operating convenience, you can control the 833 wirelessly via the SD-Remote Android app or from a compatible USB-connected MIDI controller.

Simultaneous 12-Track Recording
Record all eight input channels and four buses at the same time in samples rates up to 192 kHz, and even arm or disarm tracks during recording. The 833 utilizes monophonic and polyphonic BWF (Broadcast WAV) files that support embedded timecode and extensive metadata such as track names, file names, and notes. For quick entry of metadata text, you can hook up a USB keyboard.
Multiple Buses with Flexible Routing
In addition to the main stereo bus, the 833 boasts four independent buses for flexible creation of custom mixes. All buses feature configurable source and destination routing as well as linkable limiters. Assign any physical input to any channel, send any channel to any bus, and even virtually “patch” sources (physical inputs or internal buses) to physical outputs.
32-Bit A/D Converters
Built with precision 32-bit A/D converters, the 833 ensures audio recordings surpass those of off-the-shelf, IC-based mic preamps. Plus, the vast dynamic range of the 32-bit converters allows you to record at extremely high or low levels without causing distortion or undue noise.
Records to Three Media
The 833 features an internal 256GB SSD and dual SD card slots. Customizable track-to-media routing means that you can record redundantly to all media or select specific sources for each media.
8-Channel Dugan Automixing
Enable Dugan Automixing to automatically attenuate unused microphones in multi-microphone applications. Up to eight channels can be automixed at a time, and two separate groups can be mixed simultaneously.
Six Mic/Line Preamps with Independent Phantom Power
Passed on from the flagship Scorpio, the 833’s Class-A preamps deliver premium amplification with a massive 76 dB of maximum gain and an ultralow noise level of -131 dBV (-129 dBu). Six locking inputs (three XLR and three TA3) with per-channel 12V/48V phantom power support mic level and +4 dBu line level to accommodate external microphones or balanced outputs from high-end wireless receivers. The first XLR input can alternatively accept AES3 or AES42 digital signal.

Independently switchable polarity, multistage limiting, 3-band EQ (pre- or post-fade), and low-cut filtering allow you to tailor each channel for the best tone. Plus, six channel fader knobs and six channel trims with LED rings ensure fast mixing on the fly.
3.5mm Aux Input
A single 3.5mm mini jack serves multiple input functions. Use it as an additional channel input or to monitor the audio return from a camera or DSLR.
Versatile Analog and Digital Outputs
The XLR main outputs can function as analog or digital outputs. Assign them to send stereo analog signal at line, -10 dB, or mic level, or set them to route up to four channels of AES3 digital signals. Two X1/X2 TA3 jacks are presented for additional line, -10 dB, or mic-level balanced outputs, and a single X3/X4 3.5mm mini jack is nearby for an assignable unbalanced output.