TASCAM DP-03SD 8-Channel Portastudio

Eight track digital recording at unprecedented prices.

The DP-03 is the latest Portastudio in TASCAM’s 37-year progression of making recording simple and affordable for musicians. This version of the DP-03 is an exclusive deal in that it is absent the CD burner that usually comes with the DP-03. It is also absent about $100 of the selling price. Most musicians own a computer that burns CDs, so in some cases, the CD burner is not really needed. At least not needed as much as a hundred bucks.

This 8-track digital recorder captures your music at CD quality to affordable SD/SDHC cards, and a 2GB card is included with the recorder. With built-in microphones, effects, and mastering, the DP-03 provides everything musicians need to record and share his or her music.

A stereo condenser microphone is built into the front panel of the DP-03, helpful for capturing a rehearsal, live performance or songwriting ideas. Also included are a pair of high-quality XLR mi2crophone preamps with phantom power for condenser microphones. 1/4” line inputs are also available, and an instrument-level switch allows you to record a guitar or bass without a direct box. A three-button footswitch, the RC-3F, is available for control and punch in.

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 tuner and metronome are built-in for tight-sounding tracks, each with its own dedicated button for quick access. Track can be edited with commands like copy/paste, silence, clone track and undo. Bouncing is also available, even bouncing all eight tracks down to one or two. There’s even the option to 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 45mm faders, pan knobs, reverb and EQ, record it to the dedicated stereo master track. Your mix can be processed with mastering effects like EQ and limiting for a tight, modern sound. When you’re satisfied, transfer your mix to a computer over USB 2.0 or burn an audio CD.