TASCAM has announced the debut of the DA-3000SD 2-channel DSD/PCM master recorder with AD/DA converter that follows in the footsteps of the original DA-3000 while adding support for high-capacity SD card media and user-focused enhancements to provide more control over the recording process.
Designed for recording, mastering, and monitoring, the DA-3000SD offers a feature set tailored for recording studios of all sizes. It provides support for up to 512GB SDXC card media for more than 100 hours of 2-channel audio recording at 24-bit/192kHz, giving technicians the storage capacity to tackle extensive audio recording projects.
In response to user feedback, the DA-3000SD offers volume control over the internal oscillator for more precise calibration. Enhanced calibration capability, along with support for future-proof DSD recording, makes the DA-3000SD a choice for use with reel-to-reel tape machines and audio applications requiring more precise monitoring.
With its support for DSD (Direct Stream Digital), the DA-3000SD can serve as a stand-alone recorder. By recording one’s audio as DSD or “1-bit” digital audio, the audio can be converted to any necessary PCM file format with accuracy. DSD captures the audio at a higher resolution and dynamic range than PCM audio or bouncing files within a digital audio workstation, which then enables conversion to any needed PCM formats such as 24-bit/96kHz from higher source quality.
And as audio formats advance in the future, DSD audio helps ensure the archived audio can be reproduced in relevant formats without sonic compromise. Even when recording in PCM format, the audio captured has a higher resolution and greater dynamic range than bouncing files within a DAW.
The DA-3000SD facilitates monitoring with dedicated volume control. Proper level-matching is crucial for making an accurate sonic analysis, so address this, the DA-3000SD now has a dedicated output volume control for better integration with an existing monitoring system.
Both recording and playback synchronization is possible by cascading multiple units, thus creating a DSD multitrack environment. By connecting eight DA-3000SDs, users can record up to 16 tracks simultaneously.
In addition to the key features, the new TASCAM DA-3000SD has a wealth of additional capabilities, including an auto file save function to prevent data loss in the unforeseen event of power loss and a panel lock feature for fail-safe operation.
Input/output capability is offered for both analog and digital audio. The unit supports analog audio with balanced and unbalanced connections, while digital audio for PCM is provided via AES-EBU and S/PDIF. Digital I/O for DSD is provided with SDIF-3/DSD-raw terminals.
Additionally, the DA-3000SD includes a port for USB memory for more convenient audio playback or mutual copying with SD cards. There is also a dedicated USB keyboard port, enabling one to connect a keyboard for folder/file name input and external control.
The unit also includes a highly visible 24-dot level meter that provides the clear visual feedback needed, with a brightness control to set it as bright or dim as one prefers. Further, it’s equipped with a 128 x 64-dot OLED display with a wide viewing angle for high visibility.
With its 1RU rack mountable form factor, the DA-3000SD can be placed where it is most needed. In addition to being able to synchronize and cascade multiple DA-3000SD units together for clock synchronization and recording/playback timing synchronization, the DA-3000SD is ready to sync with word clock thanks to its Word In/Out/Thru support, with Out and Thru being switchable. Further, it can be controlled via the included RC-10 remote for integration with professional audio systems.
TASCAM director of product marketing Paul Youngblood states, commented on the new TASCAM DA-3000SD 2-channel DSD/PCM Master Recorder with AD/DA Converter, “The DA-3000SD builds upon the success of the original DA-3000 and, in the process, delivers more capability — making it a terrific choice for a wide range of audio archival and mastering functions. With support for SDXC card media and a rich assortment of I/O connectivity, this new recorder can integrate seamlessly into a wide range of production environments. I’m confident audio professionals will find much to like.”
Go here for more specifics on the new DA-3000SD.
