What It Does
LTCPrinter decodes SMPTE Linear Timecode (LTC) embedded in audio tracks and displays it as visible text in your After Effects compositions. The plugin samples audio from a specified layer, extracts the timecode data, and renders it as an overlay that follows the decoded timecode values. This solves the problem of visually verifying timecode when working with footage that has LTC burned into its audio tracks.
Key Features
Flexible audio routing. Choose any layer as your timecode source using the Audio Source Layer parameter. Works with video layers containing audio tracks or standalone audio layers. If you’re working with stereo sources where LTC occupies only one channel, precompose the layer and use Stereo Mixer to isolate the timecode channel while preserving program audio on the other.
Visual customization. Control opacity, color, font, font size, and weight (bold or regular). Position the timecode output by dragging it directly in the composition window. The text left-justifies to your chosen position.
Sample Offset. Adjust the displayed timecode by a set number of frames to compensate for known audio-video sync offsets in captured recordings.
Sample Width. Define how many frames the plugin analyzes around the current frame to determine timecode. Smaller values lock onto timecode faster; larger values resist noise and dropouts in degraded audio.
Who It’s For
Post-production teams working with multi-camera shoots, archival transfers, or broadcast footage that uses LTC for synchronization. The plugin handles common scenarios like two-channel audio where one track carries timecode and the other carries program audio, making it practical for real-world editorial workflows.
Pricing
LTCPrinter costs $9.99 for a single user license. A trial version is available. Currently Mac only, Windows support is planned. The plugin requires registration after trial use.