While ProTools may not deal with a single file larger than 2.0 GB, it only
deals with mono files (linked for stereo if needed), so each 16 bit 48k mono
file can be up to six hours long (2GB). 24 bit 48k would be four hours.
And even if you're working with programs that handle interleaved stereo
files, the 2GB limit per file doesn't mean it wouldn't be useful to be able to
store multiple files of that length on one piece of media. So the ability to
handle CF cards of larger than 2GB is an issue. The cards are out there...what
does
it take to use them?
We accepted two hour DATs (1.3 GB, or 60 meter in the DDS spec) as a limit
because in that format if you went longer than that you were dealing with
thinner tape stock, which translated into less dependability. Three hour DATs
(2.0
GB, or 90 meter in the DDS spec) work in some decks, but others don't track
them well.
As for changing cards vs changing DATs: I can change a DAT faster in a
PortaDat or a Sony D8 than I can change a CF card in a 722. In my work, that
time
differential can be important. The more recording time I can have on one piece
of media, the more flexible I can be about choosing a changing time.
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