Select the best Fostex recorder for your application and budget. Use the MR8 for portable sessions or where space is limited. Use the VF160 or similar larger recorders if more advanced features are desired and space is not an issue.
Download the instruction manual for your specific model from the Fostex website. Read the manual to acquaint yourself with the specific procedure for creating a song and enabling recording on your particular Fostex recorder model.
Connect the instrument or microphone to the input on your Fostex recorder. Connect the headphones to the "Headphones" jack on the recorder. Lower the volume on the instrument, headphones and the "Master" level control on your recorder. Turn on the power and adjust volume levels to a comfortable listening level.
Enable recording for the track you want to record on by pressing its corresponding "Track" key. Adjust the input level while playing your instrument or singing into the microphone by turning the "Trim" or "Input" level controls for the track. Watch the LED indicator on the recorder and reduce the level if it peaks.
Press "Record" to place the unit in recording standby mode. Press "Play" or both "Play" and "Record" simultaneously, depending on the recorder model you have. Consult the manual for specific instructions. Press "Stop" when finished recording. Press "Rewind" to return to the beginning and listen to the newly recorded track.