424 vs. 488

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Frogcorder

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Having gotten to the point I can do the basic stuff on a borrowed Tascam 424 mkiii, I've read a little on the 488 and may try to find one. I know it's an 8-track and has 2 XLR's and can record 4 channels at a time. Once that's done I'm assuming you can run these 4 inputs to the other 4 tracks to actually have 8 to mix down to stereo, correct? Any other comments on comparison between these two machines? I've looked at some of the digital machines and PC-based systems but I'm kinda old-school (and actually old, too) and the cassettes thing is kinda enticing (plus I can get in a lot cheaper and not be out so much if I lose interest). Thanks.
 
You've got the basic overview down.

The 488 XLR inputs add the niceties of phantom power and inserts, but like you noted there are only two of them...inputs 3&4 are mic inputs as well, just need the TRS to XLR adapter.

A band I was in in the 90's did a complete indie album on a 488...with careful mixing the results came out really well. The 4 track will have better frequency range and crosstalk performance, but the sound is comparable.
 
I've used both and don't think there's much difference in sound quality between the 424 and the 488. I've even used the 488 without noise reduction. (I've found that just about every cassette Portastudio I've used with noise reduction is pretty off and has sounded bad anyways). When I recorded with a 488 I didn't use the noise reduction but instead put the tape speed all the way up and never had any problems with hiss.

The only cassette machine better than a 488 would be a 488 mkii, or even better the 688, although I've never personally used one. I do have a 238, which has the same "cassette deck" as the 688 and think it sounds great.

The only other machine I would implore you to look at, if you can find one locally for a decent price, is the 388, which is an 8 track 1/4" tape machine. The quality of that machine is much better than any of the 8 or even 4 track cassette machines.

I know cassette users are quick to point out how expensive reel tape is, but my problem with cassette tape is that if you use it enough it will wear out and break long before reel tape. I'd rather spend a bit more money on a reel of tape, which can hold much more music than a cassette running at double speed on only one side can and is of a much higher fidelity.

-MD
 
Thanks for all the info......didn't realize these other machines existed. May have to re-think my wishlist.
 
Frogcorder said:
Thanks for all the info......didn't realize these other machines existed. May have to re-think my wishlist.
Click to expand...

That's what'll happen when you hang out here! :) There's a ton of great equipment out there, and most of it is pretty affordable now. The 388 goes for anywhere between $200 and $700 depending on condition and where you look. It's a great piece of machinery.
 
I've used both the 424 and 488mkII extensively and like both machines. When running hot signals, using good mics and pre's and just using good recording technique in general; the 424 edges out the 488mkII in sound quality just a hair due to only 4 tracks being printed to tape vs. 8 tracks. But if you need the tracks and like the versatility of the 488's mixer, use it and you won't be able to tell much difference in sound.

If you're putting an album together for major release, yeah, you might want to record with something a little nicer. But for demo's or just for good old recording fun and ease, these Tascam's can't be beat. Even in 2009.
 
And if you want to have your cake and eat it too...

I don't think you can do better than the better fidelity and Portastudio-esque ease of one of these:

IMG_0973_26_1.JPG


Not quite so "Porta".

Maybe that's whay they called it the "Studio" 8. :D

I have extensive use also with the 424 mkII and 488 mkII. Both really great tools and can produce quite fine results with careful application which is part of their beauty; they encourage the art of recording and yet can be as simple as you need.
 
Yeah, the 388 beats the pants off the 488. It's still a Portastudio, too!

(at least in design, not name!):eek:;)

Hey! You got yourself a new toy?
Your Stereo Master L/R meter lamps are out!:eek:;)
 
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