Tentacle Sync Timebar Prototype Explained – Multi-Purpose Timecode Display

by Francesco AndreolaApril 20^th, 2023

During NAB 2023, Tentacle Sync provided a sneak peek of their upcoming Timebar. This unusual audio product essentially consists of a large timecode display that can be synced with the company’s SYNC E and TRACK E devices via Bluetooth. It will be available around November for about $350.

German audio company Tentacle Sync built a strong reputation over the years by developing products aimed at simplifying timecode workflows on set. Their popular SYNC E timecode generator (our quick review here) and TRACK E audio recorder (our review here) can truly make your set life easier.

On the show floor at NAB 2023, my colleague Nino stopped by the company’s booth to chat with co-founder Ulrich Esser about the thought process behind the design of their forthcoming Tentacle Sync Timebar. Let’s take a closer look!

Tentacle Sync Timebar – sneak peek

The Timebar is a large, but portable, OLED screen designed to clearly display timecode information on set. For example, it can come in handy for directors and script supervisors who often take notes, based on a clearly-readable timecode reference.

The device is meant to be used with the Tentacle Sync E and TRACK E, but can virtually be synced with any timecode generator box. It features a low-profile and low-power consumption display powered by a built-in battery. When fully charged, this should keep the device running for about 20 hours with the display set to normal brightness.

Setting up the Timebar is fairly easy. You simply need to connect the device to the Tentacle Setup app for iOS and Android smart devices. From there, you can then sync the display to other Tentacle Sync devices and you can even set it up to display a custom text.

Price and availability

The Tentacle Sync Timebar is still in its prototype stage. According to Ulrich, it might become available around November 2023. Its retail price should be around $300-350.

For more information about Tentacle Sync, please visit their website here.

Do you use Tentacle Sync audio devices on set? Do you think this timecode device can simplify your workflow once more? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below!