Tascam DP-004 Pocketstudio Digital Recorder Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)As a songwriter who needs something that will allow me quickly to jot down song ideas and fragments, as well as completed songs, this unit is a little cumbersome. In order to create a song, you must do the following:
1. Turn on unit
2. Press "Menu" button
3. Scroll to "Song" menu item
4. Click a function button to select
5. Using the data wheel, scroll down to "Create"
6. Click a function button to select
7. Use data wheel to enter name of song one laborious letter at a time (optional step: you can forgo naming a song and it will be named "Song023" etc.)
8. Click "Home" button
9. Click "Rec" buttons for tracks 1 and 2 (assuming you want to record in stereo).
10. Click the record transport and play transport buttons together, to start the recording process (I'm assuming you have already set the input levels and want to use the built-in mics)
11. Click the stop transport button when you are done recording your song
12. Repeat steps 9-11 if you wish to overdub another voice or instrument on tracks 3 and/or 4.
13. Click "Menu" button, then "Play" to listen to playback
14. Click stop button at end of song
15. Click "In/Out" button
16. Click function key "Out" to set the out point
17. Click "Rec Mode" button
18. Using data wheel, scroll down to "Master Rec"
19. Click function key to select
20. Click the record transport and play transport buttons together, to start the recording process for the "master" track (this is simply a stereo mixdown of the four tracks)
21. Click "Rec Mode" button
22. Using data wheel, scroll up to "Multi Track"
23. Click function key to select
24. Click "Menu" button
25. Scroll using data wheel to "Wave"
26. Click function key to select
27. Scroll down to "Export Master"
28. Click function key to select
29. Use data wheel to enter name of song one letter at a time (optional step: you can forgo naming a song and it will be named "Song023" etc.)
30. Click function key to execute exporting of the master stereo tracks to the FAT partition of the SD card within the unit.
31. Attach unit to your computer via the supplied USB cable
32. Open folder to view the files on the Tascam
33. Click the "Wave" folder to find the master tracks you just created.
34. Go to a file conversion program to convert the ".wav" file to an ".mp3" file, so you can email it to your friends, etc.

Whew! Not exactly a quick, friendly, intuitive process!

What you want is a two-click process to start recording (as on my old mini-disk recorder), and then be able to connect to a computer to copy the file and convert. There are an awful lot of extra steps involved, but of course you are talking about four tracks, not just stereo, so there's just no getting around the necessity of the mix-down/mastering. What is a little odd and annoying are those extra steps to export the master to the FAT partition of the Tascam SD card (steps 27-30, above).

Also, since each song file must be loaded before you can listen to it, there is no way to play songs one after the other unattended, or zip quickly between songs like you can do on an iPod or CD player, to audition which is which (thus naming them is critical).

Anyway, a word to the wise if you want something quick and easy. You pay for the ability to make a multi-track recording. On the other hand, if you want something with great quality recording sound, ample storage (a 16 GB SDHC card gives you 1300 track minutes in the 8 GB partition you can create (the largest possible), very nice and senstive built-in stereo mics,
and something you can use to create an excellent mini-demo, then this will definitely do the trick.

TIP: Purchase a PSP-100 power adaptor. It is made for the Sony Playstation and is identical to the more costly PS-P520 Tascam says you have to buy (i.e., 5V, 2A, correct plug and polarity). I paid $5 for mine, not $30!

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Product Description:

Smaller than a paperback book, the 4-track Tascam DP-004 Pocketstudio digital recorder is simple enough for students, songwriters and musicians who want to keep their recording process simple and creative.


The portable Tascam DP-004 Pocketstudio 4-track recorder (see larger image).

Offering four tracks of CD-quality digital recording, the DP-004 can record two sources at once to the included 1 GB Secure Digital (SD) memory card. A built-in stereo condenser microphone makes it simple to record anywhere you go, perfect for concerts, rehearsals and songwriting inspirations. A pair of 1/4-inch jacks on the rear panel allow you to connect your own microphones or sources--you can even switch the inputs to guitar level for recording.


You can build up your arrangement until you've filled up all four tracks, and the Bounce feature allows you to consolidate tracks and make room for more overdub layers. Once you set levels and pan, record your mix onto a dedicated stereo master track. You're able to transfer your tracks and mixes to a computer over USB for CD burning and sharing online.Key Features
Connections:

Two 1/4-inch unbalanced mic/line inputs
Switchable guitar input
Headphone/Line output
USB 2.0 connector

Recording:

Four-track digital multi-track recording
CD-quality 44.1kHz/16-bit WAV recording
Records to SD Card media (1 GB card included)
Repeat, Record undo
Dedicated stereo mixdown track

Physical:

Powered through AA Batteries or optional PS-P520 power adapter
Battery life: About 8 hours recording, about 8.5 hours playback (alkaline batteries)
Dimensions: 6.1 x 1.3 x 4.2 inches (WxHxD)
Weight: 2.8 ounces

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Zoom H2 Handy Portable Stereo Recorder Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)A year ago, I wrote a lengthy comparison of the Edirol R-09 WAVE/MP3 Recorder, Black and the Zoom H4 Handy Recorder + 2GB Accessory Kit (pre-accessory kit).I wanted a high quality, easy to use recorder, so even though the H4 had all of the features of the Edirol and sold for considerably less, I kept the Edirol because it was so much easier to use.

Zoom has responded with the H2, a scaled down version of the H4 with all of the features of the R-09 and all of the controls right where you need them.The H2 even has additional features over the R-09, but they don't get in the way.For example, there's a choice of a 90 degree recording pattern, a 120 degree recording pattern, and even a surround sound option. Samsontech has some nice video demonstrations on its website.

One big complaint I've had with the Edirol is the cost of its add-on stand.Unlike the Edirol, the H2 comes with a simple stand.In addition, the H2 has a threaded hole so that it can be mounted on a standard digital camera tripod!On a separate note, it's much easier to replace batteries with the H2 than the Edirol.

Recently, I got together with friends and recorded the same live acoustic music on both the Edirol R-09 and the Zoom H2.I used Adobe Audition only to normalize both tracks (that is, equalize their loudness).The first time we played them back, I thought I detected a VERY slight preference for the Edirol, with the overall opinion of the group split between the two units.The second time we played them back, my preference was for the H2, with overall opinion continuing to be split.We all agreed that the differences were so small as to be negligible if there were any at all.The sound files can be found at [...] for those who'd like to hear for themselves.We were sitting in a circle with the recorders located next to each other on a mantle above and outside the group.

I do prefer the Edirol's control buttons to the H2's membrane and I'm not about to sell the Edirol, perhaps because I am more familiar with the Edirol and don't want to give it up just yet. Also, the Edirol R-09 is the darling of the moment.However, if I owned neither, I couldn't justify the huge bump in price of the Edirol over the H2 and would opt for the H2. When I went to a music party last weekend and knew I'd need only one recorder, I grabbed the H2.

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Product Description:
The Zoom H2 is a must-have for anybody doing podcasting to almost any type of mobile recording situation.Anaffordable2-track recorder using a 4-mic capsule configuration and digital signal processing, the H2 allows a variety of polar patterns and even supports 5.1 surround sound. Record at 96kHz, 48kHz, 44.1kHz or MP3. Archive files to your computer using the USB port. Use as a USB mic to record your guitar or vocals directly to computer. ATime stampfeature facilitates production. The H2 has an approximate 4-hour running time on 2 AA alkaline batteries. It includes earbuds, stereo adapter cable, mic clip adapter, tripod stand, USB cable, AC adapter and a 512MB SD card. Now the Zoom H2 can accept up to a 16 GB SD cards with the latest firmware installed. Have an older version? Update easily and for free at Zoom's website, www.zoom.co.jp.Click here for listing of compatible SD cards!Who Needs the H2 Handy Recorder from Zoom? Everyone who craves brilliant stereo recordings.It's a simple idea: provide brilliant stereo recording in an easy-to-use, ultra-portable device. Now everyone can record pristine audio in an infinite variety of applications. From seminars and conferences, to electronic news gathering (ENG) and podcasting, to musical performances, songwriting sessions and rehearsals, the H2 provides amazing recording quality. And no matter what kind of music you perform or the instrument you play, the H2 can effortlessly record it in high-quality stereo.Zoom H2 FeaturesW-XY mic patterns with 4 mic capsules and signal processing allows Front 90

TASCAM GT-R1 Portable Guitar and Bass Recorder Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you are a songwriter interested in capturing spontaneous ideas for songs, it doesn't get any better than this.I have tried many products over the years, and for capturing ideas quickly and easily, before the inspiration slips away, this thing is perfect.It is also great for recording live rehearsals or performances of your band. The built in drummer and overdubbing capability are both handy features as well.

Click Here to see more reviews about: TASCAM GT-R1 Portable Guitar and Bass Recorder

Product Description:
The Tascam GT-R1 Portable Guitar and Bass Recorder is a hand-held stereo digital recorder with a built-in high-quality stereo condenser microphone. The A/B configuration stereo mic allows natural wide sound "near-to-human" listening and there is a variable-angle microphone mechanism to help you find the elusive "sweet spot" for the best recordings.The GT-R1 recorder also accepts both direct guitar or bass input and has built-in multi effects and preset rhythm patterns. The overdub function lets you create perfect tracks. The GT-R1 allows MP3 and WAVE file recording/playback to/from memory. It performs 48/44.1kHz 24-bit (uncompressed) digital recording to SD/SDHC cards. Other features include analog auto gain control, limiter, and low cut filter. The GR-R1 also has a 1/8" powered external mic input for use with electret condenser mic such as the TASCAM TM-ST1, which adds mid-side stereo recording. (The TM-ST1 terminates to a 1/8" jack.)The Tascam GT-R1 Portable Guitar and Bass Recorder also functions as a trainer. With variable speed playback the digital recorder gives you the ability to slow down the speed of a CD without changing the pitch and allows you to quickly learn rhythm, lead, or bass parts of your favorite artists. The GT-R1 can reduce Guitar or Bass tracks from the music so you can hear yourself as you play along. It has a built-in tuner and metronome.The GT-R1 has user-friendly easy operation and has a 128 x 64 graphic LCD with backlight, USB 2.0 Mass Storage, and operates on a rechargeable removable battery. It can also be recharged like an iPod using the USB from a computer. It includes a soft case and a 2GB SD card.

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Line 6 BackTrack + Mic Guitar Riff Recorder Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Why is easy so hard? What is it about electrical engineers that they have to stuff their bells and whistles full of more bells and whistles? And with on-board computing, this practice of `mine is more ginormous than yours' is out of control. I know MDs and PhDs who have a variety of handheld devices that absorb months of their lives in a frustrating learning curve.

For a long time I recorded my own personal jams on a stereo recorder that I got for 5 bucks at a yard sale. Two mics against the amp and all I had to do was press record. But my friend who lives in the far off land of New Jersey wanted to hear my stuff so I had to do the laborious transfer from analog to digital...hassle-o-rama dude. So I wanted something that would basically do the same thing: hit record, play, listen...but that was digital so I could bring it to the PC and email it off. Kinda like the PC cameras that they have where you shoot, bring it to the PC and send it off. No such luck. Everything was multi-track onboard technology with the dot matrix window and the 2 million options and a headache in a box.

I'd like to say that there was no learning curve with the Backtrack (w/mic) but I can't. The hardest part was just figuring out what to push if you just wanted to, uh, what do you call it...?...oh yeah, RECORD. This thing is designed to record when you play and stop when you don't. Which I don't get. I can push a button.

I did figure out which two buttons to push to immediately and continuously record. Once you bring it to a PC it opens like a flash drive and it has everything you recorded. Cool. The only other problem is that to set the levels you have to download the software that allows for you to set the parameters. The software is, thankfully, on the recorder so there's no separate CD that can get lost. However, you then have to set the parameters (like record volume) at the PC. This was not a big problem with me because I'm a one man show. But if you have a full band and your running back and forth to the PC to get correct volume, well, that would--I think the technical word is--suck. On the other hand...had they put the record level interface on the unit I woulda complained that the unit interface was too complicated. So I take it all back. I like that parameter setting is on a large well-lit PC monitor, rather than the unit. Never satisfied.

My suggestions to Line 6 are:
*Make it even simpler. Make it so you can push a button which says record and that will, uh, record with no fuss.
*Make it so the software has a "do you want an icon on the desktop?" option, like every other application in the Universe. I had to search to find the software once it was downloaded.
*Make the writing larger. Why is it that manufacturers have all the words that you'll use to operate the machine in .0006 font, but the name of the company is in 48 point font?

I did have to call Line 6 for technical help. It turns out that my awesomely loud jams had stuck the thing in record mode and I couldn't get it to turn off. After ~ 5 minutes of wait time being told that I was "the next in line" I got a rep who told me that there is a button in a hole that uses a paper clip to get at. Nice enough guy and I appreciated it.

I like the Line 6 stuff--I have an amp of theirs as well. Their products are pretty simple and inexpensive and clean looking and functional. I give the Backtrack w/mic five stars partially because they have succeeded, maybe not perfectly, but well enough to beat the crap out the competition. Simplicity in a box. That's what we all want.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Line 6 BackTrack + Mic Guitar Riff Recorder

Product Description:
Inspiration is spontaneous, and BackTrack™ + Mic is your guitar's instant replay button. Easy to use, BackTrack + Mic captures everything you play without ever hitting record.

Always on, BackTrack + Mic begins recording as soon as it detects a signal through the sensitive mic or the quiet 1/4-inch input. Use the 1/4-inch output or headphone output for immediate playback. Just set it and forget it for total inspiration control.

Pressing the "Mark" button designates what you just played as special and separates it for easy review. The Forward and Reverse buttons provide instant recall of marked and non-marked ideas.

BackTrack + Mic can capture up to 24 hours of audio. Saved as .WAV files to a rugged 2-GB flash memory, the audio is easily transferred via USB 2.0 to your computer or recording software for further recording, editing or mixing. The USB connection also recharges the internal battery to its full capacity of over 8 hours.

Sleek and low-profile, BackTrack + Mic fits in your gig bag as easily as it fits into your setup. At rehearsal, at the gig or at home, BackTrack + Mic is fully dedicated to capturing everything you play.

• Up to stunning 24-bit, 48 kHz audio
• Up to 24 hours of audio capture
• 1/4-inch guitar input
• 1/4-inch output
• Microphone with gain control
• 1/8-inch headphone/Line out
• Drag .WAV files to your computer via USB 2.0
• Rechargeable via USB
• Over 8 hours of battery life
• Looped playback

Frequently Asked Questions


What are some of the differences between BackTrack™ and BackTrack™ + Mic?

The biggest differences: BackTrack + Mic features a microphone and a 1/8-inch headphone output, BackTrack does not. Both feature similar features, though, including variable sample rates and bit depth, which are shown here:
BackTrack + Mic
BackTrackSample Rate

Bit Depth 24 hours of
audio capture

12 hours of
audio capture11 kHz16 bit*12 hours

6 hours22 kHz16 bit*8 hours

4 hours32 kHz16 bit6 hours

3 hours44.1 kHz16 bit(Standard
CD audio)5 hours

2.5 hours48 kHz16 bit4 hours

2 hours44.1 kHz24 bit4 hours
2 hours48 kHz24 bit

*These settings are not recommended for mic'ed full-range audio but may be sufficient for direct guitar.



How much audio can I record?At their capacities, BackTrack + Mic can capture up to 24 hours of audio and BackTrack can capture up to 12 hours but it depends on the sample rate and bit depth you've chosen. At 16-bit/44.1 kHz (standard CD audio), BackTrack + Mic can capture six hours of audio whereas BackTrack can capture only three hours.
What's the big button on top?That's the "Mark" button and it's a great feature. After playing something really special, press "Mark". Your marked ideas are stored in a separate folder on the flash drive so when you go to drag your ideas off your BackTrack to import them into your recording software, your best ideas will be there waiting for you.
What's with the USB connection?BackTrack and BackTrack + Mic each have a USB connection for two main reasons: • To transfer your ideas to your recording software.

• To recharge the battery.

What's the best way to use BackTrack?There's no best way to use BackTrack. It's equally effective at home, on stage, at rehearsal or anywhere else you're playing.
What kind of file is the recorded audio?Everything you record is saved as .WAV files. These high-quality audio files will sound great when imported into your recording software.
What's automatic gain control in BackTrack + Mic?Automatic gain control guards against clipping and overloading, and helps maintain an even level when you're recording using the microphone.
How do I import files from my BackTrack into my recording software?It can vary so we recommend that you read your software's manual but, with most applications, it's as easy as dragging an audio file right onto a track.
Can I ditch school and record lectures with BackTrack + Mic?Of course! BackTrack + Mic features an 8-hour battery and a flash drive that can capture up to 24 hours of audio-plenty of power to record lectures that seem to go on forever. But we can't guarantee that you'll pass your class.
Does this thing have models?Nope, no models. It's a recording device.

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Tascam GTR1 Portable Digital Recorder Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Bought mine from Streamline Audio Video via Amazon. Great price, free shipping and came quickly.

Hard to believe it's so hard to find a review for such a great product. It's very intuitive. File management is drag and drop. Hooks up to USB and charges from computer or optional power supply. Lasts a long time on a charge. Holds lots of songs. (read the specs for data) The looping and slow down features are great for practicing. Just push a button right on the front for start and stop points and another to loop. Slowing down without changing the pitch is one button push. Push it again to return to normal speed. I use it mostly for practicing drums since I don't have tabs for that. I have used it with guitar too. I think looping and slow down are the best features. The drum machine effects sound good and have a nice variety of beats but I haven't spent much time with that. Used it to record some ideas with the band live and was amazed at how good the levels were with no mixing or fiddling around. Emailed the song to the rest of the guys and they were impressed with it too - one take - live.
I have also used it to move some cassette tapes to MP3 format and it works fantastic for that too. A nice bonus. I bought the optional power supply too for around $20 - it is high quality.
I love this thing. My playing has improved quite a bit since it's arrival.
Hope this helps you as I could find very little info when I was looking.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Tascam GTR1 Portable Digital Recorder

Product Description:
Plug your guitar into Tascam's GTR1 portable recorder and lay down tracks wherever the inspiration hits. Combining a portable recorder with an instrument trainer for the ultimate songwriter's toolkit, the GTR1 provides the choice of using the built-in stereo condenser microphones or plugging in your guitar or bass to record using the amp simulator, reverb and multi-effects.


The Tascam GTR1 portable guitar recorder and trainer (see larger image).

Screen example. The built-in rhythm machine sets the groove when beginning your song, and the overdub mode allows you to build a song step-by-step. There's also a low cut filter and analog limiter to keep levels under control, whether you're improvising in the studio or recording rehearsals or concerts.
The GTR1 records in MP3 or WAV format, 16-bit or 24-bit, and it comes with a 1 GB Secure Digital (SD) memory card to get you started. You can also charge the recorder and copy your recordings to your PC (Mac OS or Windows) via the USB port.
For training and practice, load MP3 files into the GTR1 and plug in to play along. Loop a section of a solo with two button presses, then slow it down without changing the pitch. You can even switch on a Guitar or Bass canceller to play along with the original rhythm section. The GT-R1 also includes a chromatic tuner and metronome for practice and warmup.

Key Features

Portable stereo recording with built-in condenser microphones
MP3 or WAV file recording, up to 48kHz/24-bit
1/4-inch Instrument input for Guitar or Bass
Amp simulation, reverb and multi-effects
Over 80 rhythm tracks in a variety of styles
Overdub function allows users to record over an existing track
Powered microphone input
Low cut filter and analog limiter on input
Loop and change the speed of music playback without changing the pitch to learn and transcribe new music
Guitar and Bass canceller allows musicians to play along
Includes 1GB SD Card and rechargeable battery
USB 2.0 Connection to computer for file transfer and charging
Optional AK-DR1 includes a tabletop stand, microphone clip and windscreen

Specifications

GUITAR IN input

Jack: 1/4-inch, mono, unbalanced
Input impedance: 1 MΩ or more
Nominal input level: -26 dBV
Maximum input level: -10 dBV

MIC IN input

Jack: 3.5-mm stereo phone (with plug-in power)
Input impedance: 30 kΩ
Nominal input level: -64 dBV (GAIN set to HIGH); -48 dBV (GAIN set to MID); -32 dBV (GAIN set to LOW)
Maximum input level: -48 dBV (GAIN set to HIGH); -32 dBV (GAIN set to MID); -16 dBV (GAIN set to LOW)

LINE IN input

Jack: 3.5-mm phone (stereo)
Input: impedance 23 kΩ
Nominal input level: -10 dBV
Maximum input level: +6 dBV

Audio file compatibility

MP3 files: 32–320 kbps; 44.1/48 kHz sampling frequency; VBR (playback only); ID3 tag support up to Ver 2.4
WAV files: 44.1/48 kHz sampling frequency; 16/24-bit rate
Recording medium: SD card (64 MB–2 GB) or SDHC card (4–32 GB)
File system: FAT16/32

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