The Bottom Line
The Tascam DR-1 is a fantastic recorder in both price and performance; bringing 24 bit, 48kHz recording capabilities in a compact package with a pair of good quality stereo microphones for $299 isn't a small feat, especially with these features. The Tascam DR-1 also offers a very useful feature for home recordists -- the ability to overdub as well as the ability to remove vocals from studio tracks to record their own vocals as practice. The DR-1 will be shipping in March.
Pros
- High Resolution Recording on SD Media
- Variable Angle Microphone
- Internal Lithium Ion Battery
Cons
- Limited to 24/48
- No Digital Input
Description
- 48kHz/24-bit recording capabilities in WAV format; mp3 recording available.
- SD media storage; 1GB included. USB 2.0 connectivity.
- Overdub, vocal cancel, chromatic tuner, and replay speed features included in software.
- Low-cut filter and automatic peak limiter included.
- Four hour recording time on built-in Lithium Ion battery.
Guide Review - First Look: Tascam DR-1 Pocket Recorder
Tascam is no stranger to home recording enthusiasts; from their cassette-based 4-track units to the ever-popular Tascam DA-P1 DAT recorder, they've anticipated the needs of recording engineers everywhere, from the bedroom-based to the pros. Now, Tascam takes their experience in recording to the mobile recording market: the Tascam DR-1.The DR-1 is a very sturdily built recorder; compared to competition at its price point, the DR-1 has a much heavier build.
The DR-1 has several types of input; included are 1/8" line and mic inputs as well as a single 1/4" input (for instruments). Also adding to the input list is two stereo microphones in an A/B pattern, with adjustable pickup angle.
The DR-1 is great for those looking to record quick demos; the ability to overdub within the software is fantastic, as well as the ability to speed up or slow down music without changing the pitch as you overdub. There's also a built-in chromatic tuner and the ability to remove vocals from studio tracks -- perfect for making your own karaoke tunes.
The DR-1 has another great feature in its power source -- a rechargeable lithium ion battery with a stated recording time of four hours. Many recorders use AA batteries -- which can get expensive, and rechargeable AA batteries tend to leave a little to be desired in recording time.
The DR-1 comes with a 1GB SD card standard, which is easily upgradeable to give longer recording life.
With their experience in field recorders -- many DA-P1s are still used by concert tapers today -- the DR-1 is sure to be a hit with concert tapers and home recording engineers. Stay tuned for a full hands-on review!
Please note: This review features a "zero star" rating -- this is because hands-on time with the product was limited, and first impressions aren't the best means for review. Stay tuned for a full-featured review soon!
