How to record SMPTE timecode on any handheld recorder

How to record SMPTE timecode if your handheld-recorder doesn't provide this feature.
Let's assume, you have a handheld recorder with no SMPTE features, neither read, nor write. But you need to synchronize your recordings to a video in post with a time-code, in this case we have SMPTE. The exact frame rate doesn't matter for this purpose.

It's no rocket sience, but it needs some preperations and precautions:

  • Choose a channel on your handheld recorder.
  • Turn down the gain to the minimum. If there is a "pad" available, activate it.
  • Make sure, the output of this channel is NOT routed to your headphones and/or stereo out!!!
  • Now connect the connector from the SMPTE source to this channel.
  • Double check, if the gain of the desired channel is at minimum and if available the pad is activated.
  • Now activate the record mode of this channel
  • ... and now let the time-code run for a few seconds.
  • Usually the gain of the channel will be maxed out. If the pad is activated, you may turn the gain to ALMOST maximum, but CAREFULLY and SLOWLY
  • Now record a some seconds of the time-code. (~ 30 sec).
  • Connect the output of this channel to the unit you want to read the recorded time-code. 
  • Double check if everything is connected correctly 
  • Hit play and check, if the desired time-code (and time) appears on the consuming unit.
  • If everything is okay, bring anything back and prepare for recording with SMPTE time-code. 
  • DONE

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This article was updated on November 4, 2025