Tascam DR-40X Four Track Handheld Recorder and USB Interface

Product Information

DR-40X has a Dual Recording mode that captures a copy of your take but at a lower level, as a safety track in case of sudden distortion. There's a limiter, an auto-gain correction facility, digital EQ, location markers, punch-in and auto‑split functions, support for playlists. A photographic tripod may be fitted using the 1/4 inch BSW threaded aperture on the rear, between the internal speaker and battery compartment. Using the stereo built-in microphones, you can capture ambient sound of the audience while recording direct from an external console, which is ideal for capturing live performances.

The XLR/jack combination input sockets are on the bottom face of the unit, as well as the jack input for control of the unit using the optional RC-3F foot-switch or RC-10 wired remote control, which enable remote starting and stopping of playback, and other functions. Users can also use their own microphones or line-level source through dual Neutrik XLR/TRS combo jacks that support both mic level and +4 dBu line level from mixers or the FOH console. Included accessories: Windscreen, mic grip, shoe mount adapter, AC adapter, case, USB cable, SD card adaptor, 4GB microSD card, owner's manual (including warranty). Credit is provided by a panel of lenders with whom we have a commercial relationship (so we cannot provide independent advice). We supply AV hire production companies, installer / integrators, retailers and resellers operating within the live entertainment, leisure, commercial, residential and retail markets throughout the UK.

Dual recording mode captures a secondary safety track at a lower level, making sure volume spikes don’t ruin your recording. Dual allows you to record a 'safety' file with lower gain, the amount being between -6 and -12 dB, specified in dB increments by the user, and again you have access to the M-S matrix.

The new Dictation Mode enables you to jump back and forth in preselected increments while playing back a file. Simple operation The layout of the DR-40X has been revamped to be quick and easy to work with one thumb. Power comes from three AA batteries (supplied) or the Micro USB‑B port; Tascam offer an optional AC adaptor, but it ran fine off the power supply of my smartphone, and it can draw its power from a computer's USB port. The 128 x 64 pixel blue LCD screen allow users to view settings such as the limiter and 40/80/120Hz low-cut filter, which is switched using the device's menu-based controls. I haven't the space to cover everything in detail, so do read Tom's original DR-40 review, which is free to view (see above), and covers some ground I don't.The Wi-Fi connectivity, with a range of up to 20m also gives the ability to geocode the audio file from the smartphone's GPS data.