Tascam DP-008 8-Track Digital Portastudio

June 24, 2011

For young musicians who would want to take their recording endeavors to the next level, then the Tascam DP-008 8-Track Digital Portastudio is a good choice for their needs. Designed for portability, ease of use, and immediate recording needs, this device promises eight tracks of sounds almost parallel to the sophisticated mixing boards of today.

The device enables eight tracks of digital recording with a simultaneous two-track recording option. It has two XLR microphone inputs that ¼-inch line inputs, with one of them capable of switching to the guitar level for direct recording. There is also a ¼-inch footswitch input that has Autopunch functions for punch-in recording. The device also has RCA line outputs, a 1/8-inch stereo output for headphones, a chromatic tuner, a built-in metronome, and a stereo reverb on send/return path. The device has a level, a pan, and 2-band equalizer control for each track, with the resulting output in 44.1 kilohertz and 16-bit recording quality. The output may be recorded into an SD or SDHC card of up to 32 Gigabytes. The USB 2.0 port may be utilized for direct connection to the computer or a mixer. The device has a built-in stereo electret condenser microphone for direct recording and a backlit LCD display. The device can be powered by the four included AA batteries or a separate PS-P520 power supply.

Pro 1: Compactness

The device is astoundingly compact even with the density of its features. The box has a measure of at least 8.7 inches in width, 1.42 inches in height, and 4.98 inches in diameter. It also weighs only 19.7 ounces without the battery, which means it could easily be brought and transported in a studio without any hassle.

Pro 2: Easy Interface

The product has basically an easy-to-understand interface, unlike most of the digital computer-based recording interfaces of today. The device has non-complicated controls and knobs that would not require a professional audiophile or studio technician to manipulate. It has instantly recognizable tape transport control buttons for any common band member.

Pro 3: Amazing Sound Quality

The device has built-in microphones and stereo inputs that have an amazing sound quality. Even at a moderate distance away from an instrument, the device captures sounds flawlessly. The ¼-inch outputs could accurately capture the tone of guitars, the microphones could grasp even the lows of a bass drum, and the XLR microphone docks could get a clear hold of the vocals.

Pro 4: Great Reverb

The built-in reverb function of this device is great, and it may actually be the selling point of this product. In case the instrument tones do not have a reverb effect, the unit itself can dial in its own reverb mix if the user desires it. The user is given the option here to choose his or her level of reverb.

Con: Poor Exporting

The addition of the computer-export feature is a good decision, but it is not as effective as it should be. The manual is a little tricky about this part, because the files should actually be transferred first on the unit itself before copying it to the computer. The export rate is also poor, which takes a long time before the files are fully transferred.

What Others Are Saying About The Tascam DP-008 8-Track Digital Portastudio

This Digital Portastudio appear to be right up there with some of the best sellers. Almost all of the reviews I found were very good. On Amazon and consumer sites there was an average rating of 4.5 out of 5. Here are some of the comments:

“Tascam has created a new classic for the next generation of starry-eyed kids plunking away in their basements. Your Kings of Leon, Girls, Animal Collective, and Fleet Foxes to my Van Halen, Motley Crue, Scorpions, and Rush. Just wish I could flip the SD card over and get that backwards guitar sound! Wanna jam, junior? “

“I have lots of bigger and better equipment in my recording studio, but couldn’t resist giving the DP-008 a try after reading all of the features contained in this little, carry it with you anywhere, pocketstudio. 8 tracks – phantom-powered XLRs as well as 1/4″ inputs – built in reverb and EQ – a metronome and guitar tuner – internal stereo mics – RCA line outputs – runs on four AA batteries – USB connection – how can you not love this? “

“I have used a lot of these portable recorders. This device sets itself apart with the right features, including the lighted dial, 8 channels, and affects. I am very happy with this purchase.”

“I’ve had this thing for a couple weeks now and find it to be amazing. This is defiantly the right tool you need to capture a quick idea or even write/record a whole song. And for the price you can’t beat it.”

Final Thoughts: Simple, High-Quality Recording Overall

Despite the complicated export speed and process, the product redeems itself with its simple interface, high-quality capture and multi-purpose features all under a very affordable price. The product relieves its users from the complex recording and mixing processes, and does a good job at it without sacrificing quality or performance.