Tascam External Audio Recorders from NAMM 2013
Jeff from Tascam shows me some of their most popular external digital recorders. We take a look at the DR-07mkII, the DR-40 and the DR-100mkII.
The Tascam DR-07mkII Portable Digital Audio Recorder is an extremely compact digital audio recorder, ideal for recording interviews, lectures, music practice sessions, and much more. The pocket-sized unit can record high-quality WAV or MP3 files (up to 24-bit/96kHz and MP3 files up to 320kbps) to readily-available microSD or microSDHC flash memory cards. A 2GB card is included so you can get started recording right away.
The recorder features built-in adjustable condenser microphones, allowing you to choose an X/Y or A/B recording pattern to meet the needs of your environment and application. A built-in limiter and switchable low cut filter reduce peaks and rumble for cleaner recordings.
Tascam DR-07mkII Portable Digital Audio Recorder
The Tascam DR-40 4-Track Handheld Digital Audio Recorder provides professional-level features and flexibility in a compact digital recording device. The unit can record high-quality WAV/BWF or MP3 files to SD or SDHC flash memory cards.
There are a pair of Neutrik combo inputs that accept XLR and 1/4″ connections making it possible to record with quality XLR mics. Built-in mic preamps provide phantom power so you can use external condenser mics. You can also record up to 4 channels at the same time with this device.
Tascam DR-40 4-Track Handheld Digital Audio Recorder
The Tascam DR-100mkII is portable stereo digital audio recorder designed with high-end recording features aimed at musicians and engineers. An upgrade to the DR-100, an already versatile unit, the rugged DR-100mkII extends the functionality of a professional portable recorder while improving the overall sound. Four built-in microphones, two cardioid and two omnidirectional, deliver great sound via the high-gain and low noise microphone preamps. A pair of XLR inputs can accommodate external microphones and provide switchable phantom power for use with condenser microphones.
The 24-bit/96kHz linear PCM recorder features dedicated stereo mini balanced line in and out connectors in addition to an S/PDIF digital input. Also available is the ability to connect balanced line inputs via the locking XLR connectors.
Tascam DR-100mkII – Portable 2-Channel Linear PCM Recorder
The DR-40 is a newer recorder, it’s odd he said the DR-100 records better sound. I originally bought both the 100 and 40 and got an email from a Tascam rep claiming the DR-40′s recordings were “equal to or better” than the DR-100.
Also if you want to use an 1/8th inch jack mic like a Rode with the DR-40 or DR-100, you need a Rode 1/8th to XLR converter. They don’t have an 1/8th inch mic jack (like the Zoom H4N does).
Wait, this is from this month? Isn’t this all more than a year old? I really wish they would make a smaller recorder like the zoom h1. The dr05 seems like it’s about twice the 1n’s size and doesn’t have the xy microphone pattern.