Tentacle devices SYNCE or ORIGINAL timecode generator, TIMEBAR timecode display or TRACK E audio recorder can be used to sync nearly any recording device such as cameras, audio recorders, monitors and more. All they need in order to work with a Tentacle is either a dedicated timecode input or at least one audio channel. There are basically two groups of equipment:
Dedicated TC-IN (File TC):
- Most professional Cameras or Audio recorders have dedicated timecode or sync port
- Some audio recorders have a built-in timecode generator of its own
- Commonly used TC Inputs are BNC or special LEMO connectors
- The timecode is processed inside the recording device and written into the media file as metadata
- These devices need a Timecode LINE signal from the Tentacle device
Microphone-IN (Audio TC):
- Cameras or Audio recorders that don't have a Timecode input
- Often smaller cameras and audio recorders such as mirrorless cameras or handheld audio recorders
- You have to record the timecode signal onto a free audio track
- Commonly used microphone inputs are 3.5 mm mini jack or XLR inputs
- The devices need a timecode MIC signal from the Tentacle device
- Check the audio settings of your recording device, so that the timecode signal is not clipping
- Important to test the postproduction workflow, because not all NLEs can process and sync audio timecode
- If necessary you can convert audio tc into file tc by using one of our two softwares
- Tentacle Sync Studio (macOS) included in every Tentacle device purchase
- Tentacle Timecode Tool (Windows)for free
Find the correct cable:
For connecting a Tentacle device to your equipment, you have to use the right adapter cable. Go to our website to find an overview of timecode adapter cables that we offer.