I need a "new" mixer...

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fred s.

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I'm in need of a mixer to use with my Fostex model 80 8-track & Tascam 22-2.

Ive been using a modern Mackie, and the main problem is it only has 2 rca outs to send into the Fostex. So I can't record more than two separate tracks at a time with it.

Here are a few things I need on the mixer...

1. Each channel needs an out for the Fostex.

2. "Sweepable" mid EQ.

3. Stereo inserts that will allow me to use my RNC compressor as a stereo compressor over the mix (on all the channels at once). On my Mackie I can easily do this with 1 pair of L and R TRS cables.

I've read good things about the older Tascam mixers on here, I just have no idea which one to look for.
 
The M308 is probably the most poplular for that format. I have a 308 but use the M35 which is an older Tascam model. I don't think the M35 can insert stereo in the main mix though without reorganizing everything. I think the 308 has a stereo insert for the main output. They're both 8 channel 4 buss with 8 ins and outs to tape deck in the submixer. Each channel has inserts and direct in/out capabilities. On the 308 the inserts are post eq on the M35 they are pre eq. The 308 has stereo effects, that I never did quite figure out, the M35 has only mono effects until you set it up specially for mixdown. With the M35 you can print effects to tape right from the buss section with the 308 you have to rechannel the signal to print effects.
 
I forgot to mention they both have parametric eqs for mids and lows but the 308 has a fixed hi of I think 10k +/- 10db. The M35 has a wider range, up to 20 k sweepable. The M35 also has the option of switching from -10 to 0db on the outputs.

Of course there ARE other mixers out there but those are the two I've owned.
 
Find an M520,...

and don't look back. :eek: ;)
 
20 channels; 8 busses; 16 tape returns.

................ :eek: ;)
 

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fred s. said:
oh, and what are the differences between 308 and 308B
Click to expand...

I believe the only difference is phantom power on the "B" version.
 
did anyone point out that your mackie most likely actually does have more outs than 2? Does it have inserts? Even if it doesn't, you aren't "tied" to using the "tape outs". All you need is some rca-to-1/4" cables to start using the inserts, main outs, mons, and/or auxiliaries, all on separate channels.
 
I use an allen&heath mixwizard 3 for my tascam 8 track and it works great. Its a 16 channel mixer with direct outs on each channel. Its nice because you can send 8 signals out with the first 8 tracks, and use the other 8 to get a perfect mix in the monitors/headphones. It has good effects and good sounding EQ and preamps. the only thing is, it was $1000.
 
Another vote for the M 300 Tascam series. I've got an M312, more aux sends than you know what to do with and the direct outs make recording a breeze. The built in pres work fine for drums and bass as well, electric guitar it gets by, vocals it's flat, but I doubt many people record vocals with their board's pre.
 
I do.

WTF?.............. :eek: ;)
If something sounds flat, then I change mic position/gain and/or use EQ. YMMV.
 
TASCAM analog board mic pres sound fine. It's all I use.
 
hungovermorning said:
Even for vocals?
Click to expand...

Yes, for everything, including vocals. I don't know why I wouldn't. The mic pres on those older boards are really quiet with lots of headroom and have a nice warm tone. If I'm not getting the sound I want, I just pick a different mic, one which gives more of the color I want or I play with mic positioning. I don't usually touch the EQ but that's more of a preference than discouraging its use. There is nothing wrong with the EQ section. I think it's great.
 
cjacek said:
Yes, for everything, including vocals. I don't know why I wouldn't. The mic pres on those older boards are really quiet with lots of headroom and have a nice warm tone. If I'm not getting the sound I want, I just pick a different mic, one which gives more of the color I want or I play with mic positioning. I don't usually touch the EQ but that's more of a preference than discouraging its use. There is nothing wrong with the EQ section. I think it's great.
Click to expand...

I can see that, I just have a thing for the vaccuum tube I guess and was lucky enough to stumble inot a few old point to point tube mixers.
 
The 308-B sounds like the right one for me! That phantom power could come in handy!

Anyone have a link to a manual or more info on it?
 
I once had a 308B. Arrived smashed, courtesty idiot packer. Amazingly it partly worked and sounded wonderful but I parted it out. :(

Oh by the way, here's another scan on the 300 series:

m300.jpg


*make sure you click on it for the original large size.

:) :) :)
 
hungovermorning said:
I just have a thing for the vaccuum tube I guess and was lucky enough to stumble inot a few old point to point tube mixers.
Click to expand...

Man, those are cool. Now I see what you're talking about! :)
 
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