Tascam DP-03 Portastudios

Capturing your music at CD quality to SD/SDHC cards (it comes ready loaded with a 2GB card), this neat little unit is fitted with a pair of remarkably sensitive and well balanced stereo condenser microphones which are built into the front panel, making it ideal for recording a rehearsal, or a live performance. However, for those who wish to set up their own “off-board” mic’ing systems there is a pair of high-quality XLR microphone preamps with phantom power. A couple of 1/4” line inputs are there too plus a headphone input and an instrument-level switch that allows you to record a guitar or bass without a direct box. Routing the inputs to one of the eight tracks is simple, and you can record two at a time until you fill up all eight. A built-in metronome and tuner are useful additions, with each having their own dedicated buttons for quick access.

Track editing functions include copy/ paste, silence, clone track and undo and bouncing is also available, with the possibility of bouncing all eight tracks down to just one or two. There is also a separate three-button footswitch available for control and punch in – and you can even import a recording through USB or audio CD. Each track has its own send to a stereo reverb processor as well as two-band shelving EQ. Once you’ve perfected your mix with the faders, pan knobs, reverb and EQ, you can then record it to the dedicated stereo master track which can then be processed with mastering effects like EQ and limiting. Then when you’re satisfied with the result, you can either transfer your mix to a computer over USB 2.0 or burn it onto an audio CD using the integral CD burner facility. We reckon that the DP-03 would be the perfect partner for the touring band that’s looking to produce a live album.

For more go to www.tascam.com