Tascam has just come out with three new fully featured portable audio recorders: the DR-05X, DR-07X, and DR-40X.
Let’s dive into what Tascam has to offer with their three new portable audio recorders:
Tascam DR-05X
The Tascam DR-05X is the smallest and least expensive recorder out of the three. It offers 24-bit / 96 kHz stereo recording and two-channel USB audio interface functionality. Additionally, it utilizes two onboard omnidirectional condenser mics in an A/B configuration. That’s great if you’re looking to record some ambient sound without needing extra microphones.
This recorder uses two AA batteries, which are said to power the recorder for up to 17.5 hours. For recording media, the DR-05X uses a microSDXC card with a 128GB capacity maximum. It can also be either hand-held or mounted onto a tripod, stand or on top of a camera using a 1/4 20” mount.
- Stereo omnidirectional condenser mics
- 2-In/2-Out USB audio interface
- Overwrite function for punch-ins
- Dictation mode with speed control and EQ
- Multi-language menus
- Auto-recording function
- One-touch user interface
- 17.5 hours with standard AA batteries
Tascam DR-07X
All-in-all, the DR-07X is fairly similar to the DR-05X — though it is bigger. There is also a difference in the onboard microphone. The mics that the DR-07X uses are unidirectional and can be positioned in an A/B or X/Y configuration. A/B offers a wider stereo image or switch over to X/Y for lowered phase discrepancies.
The DR-07X seems like it could be useful for those who live stream and for podcasting with its 2-in-2-out USB audio interface.
- Stereo unidirectional X/Y condenser mics
- 2-In/2-Out USB audio interface
- Overwrite function for punch-ins
- Dictation mode with speed control and EQ
- Multi-language menus
- Auto-recording function
- One-touch user interface
- 17.5 hours with standard AA batteries
- High-capacity microSDXC card capacity
Tascam DR-40X
Out of the three, the DR-40X is the one that’s packing the most in terms of features. It has an A/B-X/Y mic array, the capability of recording more tracks and support for external balanced mic/line sources.
Additionally, this recorder had dual internal mic preamps with 48 VDC phantom power that go to Neutrik XLR-1/4” combo jacks. Plus, it has selectable record modes, like traditional stereo, 4CH, and Dual Recording. The DR-40X also works with Tascam’s RC-3F footswitch and RC-10 wired remote.
- 2 x Unidirectional stereo condenser mics
- XLR/TRS combo inputs
- Built-in +48 phantom power
- 4-Channel multi-track recording
- 2-In/2-Out USB audio interface
- Overwrite function for punch-in
- Dictation mode with speed control and EQ
- One-touch user interface
- High-capacity microSDXC card capacity
Pricing and availability
All three recorders are out now. As for the pricing, the DR-05X, DR-07X and DR-40X cost $119, $149, and $199, respectively. Go to tascam.com to learn more about the recorders.
