Sony BVT-800

Description

The Sony BVT-800 is a digital time base corrector introduced in the late 1970s as a companion unit for Sony's BVU-series ¾" U-Matic VTRs. The primary design targets were the BVU-800 and BVU-200 U-Matic machines, though the unit includes an option for communication with non-BVU VTRs equipped with capstan servo systems.

The BVT-800 employs a 32-line digital memory for both luminance and chrominance signals, providing a relatively wide correction window for its era. It is a line-store TBC — not a full-frame TBC or frame synchronizer — and therefore requires an advanced sync loop from the TBC back to the source VTR's external sync input. The source VTR must be equipped with a capstan servo system capable of accepting this advanced sync signal.

The rear panel provides three video output BNCs with a composite/non-composite switch. In composite mode, all three outputs carry standard composite video. In non-composite mode, one output provides the non-composite (component-encoded) signal. A large multi-pin connector on the rear allows direct connection to compatible BVU-series decks. The unit also features a CCZ-A (CCU) 26-pin cable connector and supports Sony's Dynamic Tracking system.

Front panel adjustments include video level, chroma level, subcarrier phase, horizontal phase, and a DG (differential gain) compensator. The BVT-800 includes built-in dropout compensation (DOC), with a DOC output for connection to the source VTR's DOC/RF input.

PAL/SECAM variants were produced as the BVT-800P and BVT-800PS respectively.

Variants

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