238 mixer question

[Bobby Darko]

Hey guys,
I just picked up an old tascam 238s with an old mixer. I guess the mixer isn't working properly, so i want a new one. I want to be able to record 8 tracks and mix all of the 8 tracks without moving cables etc. I was looking at the tascam m30 but I saw the back panel only had xlr inputs? I use dynamic mics with jack outputs. Do I need to change cables? Also, are the mic preamps in an tascam mixing console loud enough to drive dynamic (sm58) mics? Thanks!

 

[Track Rat]

There's a couple, of different things you could do. Most basic would be a 16 channel mixer that at least is equiped with inserts on the channels or better yet at least 8 direct outs (the Mackie 1604VLZ comes to mind). You could patch the inserts or direct outs to the inputs of the 238 and the outputs to the line ins of 8 channels of the mixer. Another option would be a mixer with at least 8 channels and inserts on all 8. There you'd use the output side of the inserts to drive the inputs of the 238 and the receive side of the inserts for play back from the 238.

 

[A Reel Person]

...

The M30 has (6) XLR inputs and (2) 1/4" Hi-Z inputs. Not only that, but the XLR inputs may be used with 1/4"-plug devices, by using a simple 1/4"(F)-XLR(M) adapter.

The M30's preamps are capable of driving an SM58 or similar mic.

There are many other mixers out there that you may use with the 238, but most of my recommendations would be along similar lines to the M30, specifically: the M35, M308, M312, M50, M512, etc.,... for however big you want to go,... M320, M520, etc. All of these mixers have primarily XLR inputs, while the M30, M512/M520 also have a couple 1/4" inputs.

Whatever mixer you choose depends a lot on budget, as well as other technical considerations.

See: 1/4"(F)-XLR(M) adaptor:
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/fg=141/g=home/search/detail/base_pid/339516/

 

[Bobby Darko]

hey dave

thanks for the tips guys. There's a tascam m208 for sale. Is this worth considering as well? There'sonly 4 vu meters. Wouldn't this be a problem when mixing? Thanks...