LTC (Audio Timecode) Setup
LTC (Linear Timecode) allows you to synchronize the MVP's video and lighting playback using a SMPTE timecode signal sent over an audio connection.
Hardware Connection
Connect your timecode source to the 3.5mm (1/8") audio input on the rear of the MVP using a standard audio cable.
Common LTC sources:
DAW audio output (dedicated timecode track)
Click track with embedded LTC
Dedicated LTC/SMPTE generator
Signal Verification
Before building your timeline, verify the MVP is receiving a clean LTC signal.
Start playback on your LTC source.
Navigate to the MVP Dashboard.
Check the Input Monitor section (LTC meters only appear when LTC signal is detected):
What to Look For
LTC Volume
Green bar, moderate level (-20dB to -1dB)
Orange = too quiet; Red = clipping; "--" = no signal
Frames Decoded
Green bar, 100%
Orange/red = increasing frame loss
Timecode Display
Numbers running smoothly (HH:MM:SS:FF)
Frozen or jumping = adjust volume
Adjusting Signal Level
If the timecode is frozen, erratic, or not appearing:
Too quiet: Increase the output volume on your source device. Levels below -40dB are treated as no signal.
Too loud (clipping): Decrease the output volume. Levels above -1dB indicate clipping.
Just right: The LTC Volume meter shows green with consistent moderate activity and the timecode counter runs smoothly.
The sweet spot varies by source, but aim for a signal in the -20dB to -1dB range.
Frame Rate Detection
The MVP detects the incoming LTC frame rate automatically.
Using LTC with the Timeline Editor
Once your signal is verified, you're ready to build your show in the Timeline Editor:
Navigate to the Timecode page
Set the Frame Rate to match your LTC source (24, 25, 29.97, or 30 fps)
Place video and lighting clips on the timeline at the desired timecode positions
Start your LTC source -- the MVP will follow the timecode and play clips at the correct positions
LTC Signal States
The MVP's timecode engine tracks the LTC signal through four states:
No Signal
Inactive (gray)
Idle, waiting for timecode
Active
Active (green), running SMPTE display
Video/lighting playback driven by timecode
Signal Interrupted
Active, timecode continues
Playback continues smoothly on internal timing
Signal Lost
Inactive, playback stops
Video goes to black, lighting holds last state
When the signal returns after being lost, the MVP resumes sync.
Important Notes About LTC
Continuous sync: The MVP uses LTC for full continuous synchronization -- the timecode position drives the playback position on the timeline at all times. This is not a one-time trigger.
Variable speed: The MVP can follow LTC sources playing at 50% to 200% of normal speed. If your source runs slightly fast or slow, the MVP detects the rate and adjusts playback to match.
LTC and MTC are both active: Both inputs are always listening. Whichever signal arrives drives playback -- there is no priority between them.
Related Pages
Timecode Overview -- LTC vs. MTC comparison and capabilities
The Timeline Editor -- Building your show timeline
MTC (MIDI Timecode) Setup -- Alternative MIDI-based timecode
All-Intra Video & Timecode Sync -- Frame-accurate seeking
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