Recording to DCR

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Steveone

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Hi Guys,

I've just taken ownership of a Tascam 2488 but can't get it to record to a cd. I'm trying with a Maxell CD-R but the drawer keeps opening up again and the message still reads Set New CD? (or words to that effect) Am I simply trying to use the wrong kind of CD? The maual says that CD-RW should be 1x4 speed but says nothing about CD-R. My disks are 48x compatible. If you can shed any light on my first project I'd be really grateful.

It's late here and I'm away to my bed but will look in again tomorrow evening.

Many thanks to anyone who might be able to offer any help.

Steve
 
You may need audio-only CDs.

However, I doubt it because your machine quotes multiple writing speeds which only 'pro' or computer blanks are designed to use.

Another possibility is that the lens is either dirty or misaligned.

Try the 'studio' range from TDK. Strictly speaking, they and computer CDs are formatted in the same manner, but if they don't work either then you know you may need to have the unit looked at.
 
Another clue is in the manual. If it says nothing about CD-R then it probably doesn't use it.

You may have to record to rewritable then copy it to a 'proper' blank on your PC.
 
Many thanks MickB. Maybe I should have been a little more precise, I meant there is no reference to a WRITABLE speed in the manual regarding CD-R, (it does apparently use them) only a reference to CD-RW speed. Apologies if I confused you.

I'm hoping it's not a glitch in the machine as it's brand new and I don't realy want the hassle of sending it back to the other end of the country if I don't need to!

I'll try a few more disk types before I do anything else but thanks again all the same.

If anyone else has further suggestions I'd be happy to hear them.

Cheers,

Steve.
 
Steve,

I too own the 2488. It will use regular computer CD-R discs without a problem, but stay away from Maxell.

I have been informed by those in the know that the brand can create issues with reading/writing in the Tascam. I have used TDK CD-Rs since I got the machine without any problems at all (I buy the 'pancake' 50-pack on a spindle.)

Good luck with it,

CC.
 
Hi Cosmic,

Many thanks for that, I'll take it on board. Do you use any particular speed at all? I'm just wondering before I go out in the morning and spend a few Pounds.

I had a look around a few stores today and they all sell only the high speed disks around the 48x to 52x mark. If I have to use only a maximum of 4x I fear I might have a problem getting hold of them. I guess I might need to spend a little bit of time seeing what Google can throw up for me. :)

I saw some CD-RW disks at a speed of 4-12x (don't recall the manufacturer) and was thinking about giving those a try. It was a birthday gift to myself and so I reckon I might be spending a fair bit of time around here so please bear with me!

Thanks again guys,

Steve.
 
Hi again Steve,

The TDKs I use are, as I recall, at the very least 24X or higher speed capable (I use them on my PC also) and they create no problem in the Tascam that I can tell. They just 'slow down' to whatever the burner speed is, and I have burned both straight audio CDs and Tascam data backups with them in the 2488.

For music discs, if you really want to re-use, the CD-RWs I suppose are ok for checking mixes and such, but for data back-up of your projects, it is recommended you use 'straight' CD-R discs for more reliable longer-term storage.

For Tascam help, check in here; lots of info to be had:
http://www.tascam2488.com/



Let us know how it goes,

Best,
CC.
 
Hi Guys,

Just an update to let you know how I'm getting on. I've managed to get the thing to record to CD-R and CD-RW now at disk speeds of CD-RW 4x and CD-R 52x. I've ditched the Maxell disks and I'm now working with Memorex. I can get these to play on my computer using Winamp and Nero but not Windows Media Player or Real Player. I can't get either of them to play on my CD player either. I guess I have a steep learning to curve to climb but it's one that I'm kinda looking forward to.

I've not had a real good look around the forums you linked to Cosmic, just yet but, I will be doing in time and I just wanted to say thanks to you both for your help so far, I really appreciate it.

Thanks guys, I suppose in real terms it's going to be a while before I'm able to offer any advice to others here and I think I might be asking quite a lot over the next few months but in the meantime, many thanks to you both again.

Regards,

Steve.
 
Have you updated the 2488's firmware, or the burner on your pc's firmware.
My NEC 2500A had a problem with Maxells, but after the firmware update, they work just fine.

Alot of the firmware updates are just for that, I mean, compatibility with media.

Make sure your 2488 has the latest firmware, available at Tascams website.
 
Hi Warcloud3,

I have the latest Firmware already installed but thanks for the suggestion. I think my PC is ok as it burns without problem. I just can't get my disks to play in the previously mentioned players. But thanks anyway and I'll keep trying. I might glean some info from Cosmics' link when I get some time to take a proper look around it. Thanks again.

Regards,

Steve
 
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