Not Giving Up Analog, Just Exploring Digital With The Tascam DP-01FX

[Illsidgus]

Okay, to begin with I know I am committing a sin by double posting, but the folks in the Digital Recording & Computers section either don't have any opinions or they just don't want to share them with an analog devotee. So here is the thread I posted in the Digital section.

I am considering taking the plunge into digital recording for the first time. I am not going to give up my analog recording, I just want to broaden my horizons. I am looking at a Tascam DP-01FX. It is only about $100.00, it still has its original box, documentation, power supply and an assortment of cords and wires. What do you all think about the DP-01FX? Pros/cons, let me have them.

Hopefully you all will have some helpful advice.

Doei

 

[A Reel Person]

Well, if the price is right, go for it!

There is nothing either good or bad about the DP01FX, it's just different and in a particular class of devices that you'd expect certain capabilitities and features. It might help the discussion if you noted what your current analog setup is, so that they may be contrasted and compared.

The DP01 has 2 inputs, 1/4" and XLR jacks, records 2 tracks simultaneously, plays back 8, has built in effects and knobs for EQ, a built in hard drive, small status/metering display, and a funny V shape that will not fit tightly with any other equipment with square or rectangular shape, which I never understood, but it's unique!

You may want to verify all the inputs and output jacks work flawlessly, or discuss the aspect of returns with the seller in case there is a problem after purchase. This unit is a few years old, and is functional enough but not topline gear. Tascam has since come out with the DP02 and DP03. I have a DP02CF and I would recommend using a front end mixer to the inputs, as in general these Tascams seem to have weak gain on the input preamps, as well as boosting the input mixing capability. F/I, I was most satisfied when I integrated a Tascam 246 as input mixer feeding the DP02CF.

I think the biggest comment or complaint of the DP01/02 was the input preamps seemed weak and begged the issue of using a front end mixer or external preamp to juice up the signal. I've done no research on the DP03, but it's a similar and smaller unit with built in stereo mics.

To compare the DP01FX with whatever you're currently using might be more helpful. In many cases an analog system will be way more flexible and capable than a digital unit like the 01FX, but analog setups also span the range and can't be generalized. I can think of many 8 track analog setups that would be more capable than a DP01FX, and some that wouldn't.

Good luck.

 

[Illsidgus]

To compare the DP01FX with whatever you're currently using might be more helpful. In many cases an analog system will be way more flexible and capable than a digital unit like the 01FX, but analog setups also span the range and can't be generalized. I can think of many 8 track analog setups that would be more capable than a DP01FX, and some that wouldn't.

I hope this helps with any advice I receive. My analog setup is a Tascam 244 with an Akai 1722w r/r for a mastering deck. What I intend to use the DP-01 for is as a rehearsal tool. I can use it to get all the parts down as good as I can then make my primary recording on my 244. This would save ware and tear on my 244 and hard to find tapes. Thanks for you input, i much appreciate it.

Doei

 

[A Reel Person]

For sure, I'd recommend...

using the 244 as an input mixer to the DP01FX.

The big boost you'll see is 8 total recording tracks on the DP01FX.

The biggest drawback is the the 01FX records 2-simul/max and the 244 records 4-simul/max, however most of the time for a solo recordist working alone this is not an issue.

Something else that reflects back to my first comment, if you've ever become accustomed to routing 2 or more inputs simultaneously down to 1 recording track, which I do almost every time as a rule,... will necessitate using the 244 as a front end mixer. You'll also get way more gain for mics and inputs on the 244 mixer, it's a very noticeable difference.

Once you do that and get used to it, this 2-Porta hookup can be a very good setup indeed.

One thing I also noticed, which just occurred to me,... is my DP02CF has a power module which throws interference into the signal of other devices, which is most noticeable when preamps are on high gain. It was an annoyance more than a show stopper.

The 244 on it's own merits is a good and very flexible old school 4-track, which outshines many later models and is generally well regarded on this board. The sound quality is very good, and even though it's old and compact, there are some very nice features.