Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Zoom R8 Multitrack SD Recorder Controller and Interface

Zoom R8 Multitrack SD Recorder Controller and Interface Review



Zoom R8 Multitrack SD Recorder Controller and Interface Feature

  • 8-channel playback, 2-channel simultaneous recording
  • 48V phantom power available on 2 tracks
  • Over 150 DSP effects including guitar amp models and mastering effects
  • Records on up to 32GB SDHC cards for maximum recording time
  • Two balanced XLR-1/4-inch combination inputs
The Zoom R8 Multitrack SD Recorder Controller and Interface is everything you need to start recording today! Zoom takes the turbocharged design of the R24 and reduces the footprint for a portable, powerful music production solution. Like its predecessor, the R8 combines four production tools in one incredibly versatile device. In addition to being a multi-track recorder with 8-track playback and 2-track simultaneous recording using SD memory cards, the R8 is an audio interface, a control surface and a pad sampler. The R8's sampler function consists of 24 built-in voices that can be triggered using 8 pads and 3 bank keys to assign sounds to each track and create loops. Also, you can use the unit's drum machine and the 1.5GB of included rhythm patterns to create original backing beats, or simply output a metronome for tempo control. More than ever before, you have all the tools necessary to create high-quality recordings anywhere. The R8 comes with a 2GB SD card and supports up to 32GB SDHC cards for a maximum of 100 track hours. Using SD media for recording not only makes the R8 lighter and more portable, it also ensures increased reliability with no concern for a crashing hard drive. Take your R8 into your studio and record additional tracks using its USB audio interface. Then when you're ready to mix, use the R8's control surface capabilities to manage each function of your favorite DAW software. Incorporate any of the150+ DSP effects to enhance your recording and use the pro-quality mastering effects to complete that studio sound. With the Zoom R8, versatility, control and comprehensive features come together in a single device that fits in a guitar case and makes on-the-go multi-tracking a breeze.


8GB Boss Roland BR SDHC Memory Card for BR-800

8GB Boss Roland BR SDHC Memory Card for BR-800 Review



8GB Boss Roland BR SDHC Memory Card for BR-800 Feature

  • Lifetime warranty
  • Protective jewel case
  • Tested for sector integrity and chip functionality
Premium SD Memory upgrade for the Boss series of digital recorders. This 8GB SD Card is compatible with your Micro BR-800 plus all other Boss Samplers, Drum Machines, Keyboards and Recording devices that utilize 8GB SD memory cards.


Monday, January 30, 2012

Tascam DP-02 Digital Portastudio - 8 Track

Tascam DP-02 Digital Portastudio - 8 Track Review



Tascam DP-02 Digital Portastudio - 8 Track Feature

  • Two XLR mic/line inputs with phantom power for condenser microphones^Eight-track recording at uncompressed 44.1k/16-bit audio quality^Portastudio-based interface with volume fader, pan, effect send, high and low EQ controls per channel^EQ frequency button to access high and low EQ shelf frequencies^USB 2.0 interface for transferring tracks, mixes and backup files to a computer
  • Two XLR mic/line inputs with phantom power for condenser microphones
  • Eight-track recording at uncompressed 44.1k/16-bit audio quality
  • Portastudio-based interface with volume fader, pan, effect send, high and low EQ controls per channel
  • EQ frequency button to access high and low EQ shelf frequencies
  • USB 2.0 interface for transferring tracks, mixes and backup files to a computer
With a classic, well-known interface that's easy to pick up by new users, the 8-track Tascam DP-02 Digital Portastudio sports dedicated controls for level, pan, effects send and EQ instead of the menu-cursor interface found on most other recorders. You can make music with two hands with the DP-02--just reach and twist a knob when your creativity strikes. The DP-02 records to a 40 GB hard drive, and it includes a multi-effect processor, stereo reverb and CD burner for CD masters and song backup.

A pair of CD-quality XLR mic inputs includes phantom power for condenser mics and a direct guitar input. High and low EQ controls for level and frequency are provided for every channel. It also includes a multi-effects processor, stereo reverb, even a dedicated stereo channel for recording your mix. You can transfer tracks and mixes to a computer using USB 2.0, or burn a master disc in the CD drive.



The easy-to-use, 8-track Tascam DP-02 Digital Portastudio with simple knobs and faders (see a larger version of the image on the right).

Key Features

  • Two XLR mic/line inputs with phantom power for condenser microphones
  • Eight-track recording at uncompressed 44.1k/16-bit audio quality
  • Portastudio-based interface with volume fader, pan, effect send, high and low EQ controls per channel
  • EQ frequency button to access high and low EQ shelf frequencies
  • USB 2.0 interface for transferring tracks, mixes and backup files to a computer
  • Dedicated stereo master track for mixdown
  • Internal metronome and bar/beat display for song position
  • Headphone output
  • Stereo line outputs on RCA analog and S/PDIF optical digital connectors
  • 40GB internal hard drive
  • Multi-effects processor with guitar, bass, vocal and drum programs
  • Stereo reverb processor with send/return controls for multichannel mixing
  • Built-in chromatic tuner
  • Built -in CD-RW burner for CD mastering and song backup
The Tascam DP-02 makes recording simple by matching 8-track CD-quality recording with a Portastudio interface – so you can ditch the menus and concentrate on the music. A pair of record-quality Tascam mic pres features XLR inputs with phantom power for condenser mics and a guitar in for direct recording. Each channel gives you dedicated controls for instant access to fader level, record arm/track mute, pan, effect send, high and low EQ. There's also an EQ frequency button for finer control over the mix. Two effects processors are included in the DP-02. A multieffects processor on the input provides great-sounding overdrive, flange, delay and more for your guitar, vocal, drum and bass tracks. In addition, there's a reverb processor on a send and return for adding hall, room, plate or chamber reverb to your mix. The DP-02 is loaded with great Tascam extras like a chromatic tuner, metronome, and bar-and-beat display for getting around your song. The DP-02 records two channels at a time to a built-in 40GB hard drive. When you're satisfied with your production, arm the dedicated master track for your stereo mixdown. You can transfer your tracks and mixes or backup your song to a computer through a speedy USB 2.0 connection or burn it to a CD with the slot-loading drive. No other workstation makes recording so simple, affordable and fun as the Tascam DP-02.


Sunday, January 29, 2012

Fostex FR2 Compact Digital Field Recorder

Fostex FR2 Compact Digital Field Recorder Review



The Fostex FR-2 was designed specifically for location sound recording, broadcast & sound effects acquisition, TV & radio documentary, and in fact any application where high quality audio recording is required. The Fostex FR-2 sets a new price performance ratio in the compact portable two track recorder market. Flexibility is the keyword with the FR-2. Recording industry-standard Broadcast Wav Files (BWF) to either PCMCIA 1.8-inch hard drives or Type II Compact Flash cards, the FR-2 brings many features from Fostex's experience as a long-term leader in digital location recording such as a 10 second pre-record b


Boss BR-864 8 Track Recorder

Boss BR-864 8 Track Recorder Review



Boss BR-864 8 Track Recorder Feature

  • Roland Boss BR-864 8 track recorder
  • 64 (8 V-Tracks per each Track)
Tracks Tracks 8 V-Track 64 (8 V-Tracks per each Track) * Up to 2 tracks can be recorded simultaneously, and up to 8 tracks can be played back simultaneously. Data Storage Useful Capacity CompactFlash: 32 MB to 1 GB Data Type HiFi (MT2), STANDARD (LV1), LONG (LV2) Sample Rate 44.1 kHz Recording Time HiFi (MT2) 16 min/ 32 MB, 32 min/ 64 MB, 65 min/ 128 MB, 130 min/ 256 MB, 260 min/ 512 MB, 520 min/ 1GB STANDARD (LV1) 19 min/ 32 MB, 39 min/ 64 MB, 78 min/ 128 MB, 156 min/ 256 MB, 312 min/ 512 MB, 624 min / 1GB LONG (LV2) 24 min/ 32 MB, 49 min/ 64 MB, 98 min/ 128 MB, 196 min/ 256 MB, 392 min/ 512 MB, 784 min / 1GB * The above-listed recording times are approximate. Times may be slightly shorter depending on the number of songs that were created. * The above number is the total for all the tracks that are used. If each of the eight r tracks contain an equal amount of data, the length of the resulting song will be approximately 1/8 of the above. Input Nominal Input Level GUITAR/BASS : -24 dBu MIC (Phone/XLR) : -44 dBu LINE : -16 dBu Input Impedance GUITAR/BASS : 1 M ohm MIC (Phone/XLR) : 8.9 k ohm (HOT-COLD), 8.2 k ohm (HOT-GND, COLD-GND) LINE : 15 k ohms Output Nominal Output Level LINE OUT : -10 dBu Output Impedance LINE OUT : 2 k ohms HEADPHONES : 147 ohms Recommended Load Impedance LINE OUT : 20 k ohms or greater HEADPHONES : 8 to 50 ohms Residual Noise Level LINE OUT : -85 dBu or less * INPUT SELECT: GUITAR/BASS, input terminated with 1 k ohms, INPUT SENS: Center, IHF-A, typ., Effect: off) Interface USB connector DIGITAL OUT (optical type) Connectors GUITAR/BASS (1/4" phone type) MIC (XLR, 1/4" TRS phone type) LINE IN (RCA pin type) LINE OUT (RCA pin type) FOOT SW/ EXP Pedal (1/4" phone type) HEADPHONES (Stereo 1/4" phone type) MIDI OUT Power Supply Power Type DC 9 V; AC


Saturday, January 28, 2012

Behringer UCA202 Audio Interface

Behringer UCA202 Audio Interface Review



Behringer UCA202 Audio Interface Feature

  • Ultra-flexible audio interface connects your instruments, mixer etc. with your computer for recording and playback
  • High-resolution 48 kHz converters for high-end audio quality
  • Works with your PC or Mac-no setup or drivers required. Free audio recording and editing software downloadable at www.behringer.com
  • Stereo headphone output with dedicated level control lets you monitor both input and output
  • Powered via USB bus-no external power supply needed
The UCA202 provides two analog mono inputs and outputs (for monitoring), USB connectivity and an additional S/PDIF optical output for direct analog-to-digital conversion. The stereo headphone output features a dedicated level control and lets you listen to both the input and output. For a fraction of the cost of many USB audio interfaces, you can have state-of-the-art digital conversion, world-class recording and editing software, and hassle-free connectivity between your PC or Mac Computer and any piece of audio equipment.

Hassle-free connectivity between your PC or Mac Computer and any piece of audio equipment. Click to enlarge.

energyXT2 makes it easy to manipulate your audio and MIDI file.

Audacity is an easy-to-use audio editor and recorder for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux operating systems.

Options Galore
When used as a professional interface between a mixing console and your computer, myriad options become available. Some of these might include connecting the UCA202 RCA outputs: to the TAPE INPUT jacks of your mixer; to powered monitors or to the input channels on the mixer. Connecting to the mixer input channels allows you to use the Aux Send feature of your mixer to build an extremely versatile monitor mix for recording sessions. These are just a few of the possibilities; let us know how you use your UCA202.

No Drivers Required
The UCA202 works with your PC or Mac computer without the need for any setup or driver installation.

Powered via USB
Because the UCA202 is powered by the USB bus, no external power supply is needed. That's one more outlet for all your musical toys.

High-End Audio Quality
The UCA202 features high-resolution 48 kHz converters for high-end audio quality, and the additional S/PDIF optical output allows for direct digital conversion.

Tons of Free Software
Behringer provides a heap of free software available via download, to let you get the most out of your UAC202 right out of the box.

  • KRISTAL Audio Engine
    KRISTAL Audio Engine is a powerful multi-track recorder, audio sequencer and mixer--ideal for anyone getting started with recording, mixing and mastering digital audio.
  • Audacity
    Audacity is an easy-to-use audio editor and recorder for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux operating systems.
  • energyXT2
    This amazing DAW (digital audio workstation) makes it easy to manipulate your audio and MIDI files, and turn song ideas into stunning CD or web-ready recordings. energyXT2 includes built-in synthesizers, a drum machine, and internal multi-FX processor.

What's in the Box
Behringer UCA202 U-Control Audio Interface, User's Manual The Behringer UCA202 is an ultra-compact, bus-powered interface that can link a Windows or Mac computer with any audio gear. There is no setup or special drivers needed. The interface provides two analog inputs and outputs, as well as an additional S/PDIF optical output for direct digital conversion. The stereo headphone output with dedicated level control allows for monitoring both input and output.The U-CONTROL download area at Behringer's website offers a huge software package for recording and editing making the interface a complete audio solution, which provides a connection between the analog and digital domain.


Friday, January 27, 2012

Zoom R16 Multitrack Recorder Controller and Audio Interface Multitrack SD Recorder Controller and Interface

Zoom R16 Multitrack Recorder Controller and Audio Interface Multitrack SD Recorder Controller and Interface Review



Zoom R16 Multitrack Recorder Controller and Audio Interface Multitrack SD Recorder Controller and Interface Feature

  • Digital recorder with 16-track playback and 8-track simultaneous recording utilizing Secure Digital (SD) memory
  • 16/24-bit/44.1kHz linear PCM recording in WAV format
  • Built-in stereo condenser microphones
  • Includes 1GB SD card and supports cards up to 32GB SDHC
  • Allows simultaneous recording on up to 8 tracks
Zoom has revolutionized digital recording again with the first digital recorder with 16-track playback and 8-track simultaneous recording that utilizes Secure Digital (SD) memory. The new R16 recorder is three production tools in one incredibly versatile device. It's a digital multi-track recorder, an audio interface and a control surface, providing you with all the tools necessary to create studio-quality recordings anywhere.


Thursday, January 26, 2012

Tascam CD-BT2 CD Bass Trainer

Tascam CD-BT2 CD Bass Trainer Review



Tascam CD-BT2 CD Bass Trainer Feature

  • Portable CD bass trainer (More compact than previous CD-BT1MKII)^CD-DA/CD-R/CD-RW disc playback ^10 second anti-shock memory^Album title/Track title indication by CD-Text^Key control: +/-6 semi-tone, in semi-tone steps with +/-50 cents fine tune
  • 10 second anti-shock memory. Album title/Track title indication by CD-Text
  • Portable CD bass trainer (More compact than previous CD-BT1MKII)
  • CD-DA/CD-R/CD-RW disc playback
  • Key control: +/-6 semi-tone, in semi-tone steps with +/-50 cents fine tune
The Tascam CDBT2 is the latest introduction in the portable CD trainer line-a product category literally invented by Tascam. Like the wildly-popular original CDBT1 bass trainer, musicians have the ability to slow down the speed of a CD without changing the pitch - allowing artists, musicians, students, and music teachers to practice, learn and teach fast licks, rhythm parts and solos from their favorite bass players. With its ultra-compact design and new functionality, the new CDBT2 trainer from Tascam is the most user-friendly trainer ever. The new CDBT2 bass trainer completes our all-new lineup of trainers for the musician, student, teacher and artist on the go. The new CDBT2 bass trainer features an all new improved ultra compact design, comprehensive LCD display with graphical user interface, Album title/Track title indication by CD-Text, expanded effect banks for user preset, chromatic tuner, and Tascam's pioneering VSA (Variable Speed Audition, pitch control without affecting key) feature lets music fans learn up a continuous mix of their favorite songs anywhere they go. With Tascam's legendary ease of use, pioneering features such as integrated pitch and key control, bass canceller with selectable canceling pan point and selectable frequency range, and seamless integration with CD-DA/CD-R/CD-RW disc playback. Users can now discover the licks their favorite artist really played.


TASCAM DP-004 Digital 4-track Recorder

TASCAM DP-004 Digital 4-track Recorder Review



TASCAM DP-004 Digital 4-track Recorder Feature

  • Two 1/4 mic/line inputs
  • Switchable guitar input
  • Headphone/Line output
  • USB 2 connector for connecting to your home computer
  • Records to SD Card media

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
Tascam DP004 Digital Pocketstudio Recorder based on 30 years of cassette Portastudios! Though based on Tascam's long line of cassette. Pocketstudio brings users into the new-age of digital recording with four CD-quality tracks and features like Undo and Repeat that wouldn't be possible on your past generation, cassette portastudios. Much like those easy-to-use Portastudios, the Pocketstudio sports a similar row of knobs to set levels and pan instead of confusing you with menu screens.The Tascam DP004 is able to record two sources at the same time onto it's removable SD memory. A stereo condenser microphone has been designed into the unit to make it simple and ready to record in any situation. Record concerts, rehearsals and sudden songwriting inspirations when they occur. Dual rear panel 1/4 inch jacks provide connection to dynamic mics or other stereo or mono sources. Inputs are switchable to a guitar level signal for easy recording. Tascam DP004 Features Two 1/4 mic/line inputs Switchable guitar input Headphone/Line output USB 2 connector for connecting to your home computer Records to SD Card media Autopunch, repeat and record undo Dedicated stereo mixdown track Powered through AA Batteries or optional PS P520 power adapter The DP004 allows you to build up your arrangement until you've filled up all four tracks. The Bounce feature allows you to consolidate tracks and make room for more overdub layers. Also available is an autopunch feature for fixing problems, track editing and an undo function. Mixing is also built into the Digital Pocketstudio. 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 2 for CD burning and sharing online. Despite its go-anywhere


Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Korg SR1 Sound On Sound Unlimited Track Recorder - Korg SOS

Korg SR1 Sound On Sound Unlimited Track Recorder - Korg SOS Review



Korg SR1 Sound On Sound Unlimited Track Recorder - Korg SOS Feature

  • Pocket-sized, portable, and battery powered
  • Advanced recording features include unlimited undo/redo, loop recording, and Sound Stretch
  • High-performance guitar, bass, and chromatic tuners are built in
  • Record and save up to 200 songs in WAV format
  • Records up to ten hours on a pair of AA batteries
Korg SOS SR1 Sound On Sound Unlimited Track Recorder.


Monday, January 23, 2012

TASCAM DP-008 8-Track Digital Portastudio (Standard)

TASCAM DP-008 8-Track Digital Portastudio (Standard) Review



TASCAM DP-008 8-Track Digital Portastudio (Standard) Feature

  • 8-track Digital Portastudio.
  • 2-track simultaneous recording.
  • 2 XLR microphone inputs with phantom power.
  • 2 1/4 inch line inputs, one switchable to guitar level for direct recording.
  • 1/4 inch footswitch input and Autopunch features for punch-in recording.
Tascam's most-compact 8-track recorder is powerful, versatile, yet keeps it simple.


Sunday, January 22, 2012

Tascam MPVT1 Portable MP3 Vocal Trainer

Tascam MPVT1 Portable MP3 Vocal Trainer Review



Tascam MPVT1 Portable MP3 Vocal Trainer Feature

  • 240-song memory capacity (based on average 4-minute MP3 encoded at 128kbps)
  • Variable Speed Audition changes the speed of the MP3 playback without changing the pitch
  • Microphone input
  • Built-in reverb & echo on input
  • Input volume for microphone
Designed specifically for musicians, the Tascam MP-VT1 MP3 player is a vocal and instrument trainer includes enough memory to store up to 240 songs. Parts can be slowed down, looped and even eliminated to help you to learn new riffs. Play back MP3s using Variable Speed Audition, which slows down the speed without changing the pitch, and sections can be seamlessly looped while practicing tricky passages. Songs can even be pitched up or down to match the tuning of your instrument or vocal range, so you can play in any key.



The Tascam MPVT1 MP3 player/vocal trainer with variable speed playback (see larger image).
The mic input lets you to play along with multi-effects, including a vocal canceller so you can sing along with your favorite bands. A tuner, metronome, and built-in rechargeable battery are also built- in. All of this is packed into an MP3 player smaller than a stomp box, so stuff it in your backpack, gig bag or back pocket and hit the road.

Zip through your MP3 collection using a data wheel, dedicated buttons and a graphical LCD display. A rechargeable 9-hour lithium ion battery is built into the unit, and an optional power supply is also available.

Key Features



The left (above) and right (below) sides of the MPVT1.
  • 240-song memory capacity (based on average 4-minute MP3 encoded at 128kbps)
  • Variable Speed Audition changes the speed of the MP3 playback without changing the pitch
  • Microphone input
  • Built-in reverb and echo on input
  • Input volume for microphone
  • Balance control keys between mic input and playback
  • Voice canceller with selectable pan point and selectable frequency band range
  • Metronome key on the front panel
  • Seamless IN-OUT Loop
  • 1/8-inch Headphone output
  • Built-in rechargeable battery with 9-hour reserve
  • 128 x 64 graphic LCD display
  • USB jack
  • Auto Power Off and Hold function
  • Dimensions: 3.1 x 4.3 x 1 inches (WxHxD) excluding protrusions
  • Weight: 7.8 ounces including lithium-ion battery

Specifications

  • Memory: 1 GB
  • File system: FAT16 (recognizes a maximum combined total of 550 files and folders)
  • Bit rate support: 32 - 320 kbps
  • Sampling frequency: 44.1 kHz
  • Guitar input: Standard phone jack (mono, unbalanced)
  • Headphone/line-out jack: 3.5mm
  • Signal to noise ratio: >90 dB
  • Minimum PC requirements: Windows XP; Mac OS 10.2
One of the hardest things about learning to sing with a band is finding one that will let you join them while developing your chops. With the MP-VT1 MP3 Vocal Trainer, TASCAM has created a portable learning tool just for you! Based on the award-winning CD-VT1mkII, this fun mobile vocal and instrument trainer includes enough memory to store up to 240 songs. Parts can be slowed down, looped and even eliminated to help you to learn new riffs. Play back MP3s using Variable Speed Audition, which slows down the speed without changing the pitch, and sections can be seamlessly looped while practicing tricky passages. Songs can even be pitched up or down to match the tuning of your instrument or vocal range, so you van play in any key. The mic input lets you to play along with multi-effects, including a vocal canceller so you can sing along with your favorite bands. A tuner, metronome, and built-in rechargeable battery are also built- in. All of this is packed into an MP3 player smaller than a stomp box, so stuff it in your backpack, gig bag or back pocket and hit the road. The MP-VT1 uses a high-speed USB connection to load up MP3s and charge the built-in battery (an optional power supply is also available). Zip through your MP3 collection using a data wheel, dedicated buttons and a graphical LCD display. A rechargeable 9-hour lithium ion battery is built into the unit, and an optional power supply is also available. Put 240 songs in your gig bag with the MP-VT1, the first MP3 player for musicians.


2488 Portastudio

2488 Portastudio Review



2488 Portastudio Feature

  • Outrageous bang for the buck
  • Getting physical
  • A control freak's dream
  • A songwriter's savior
24 track, 24 bit, 36-channel Digital Portastudio with 40 gig hard drive, built-in CD-RW drive and signal processing. 8 inputs can simultaneously record into 4 XLR's and 4 1/4" jacks or 8 1/4" jacks. Also included is USB jack for back-up via computer. Free Headphones with purchase (a 43 value)