Tascam DP-02 or Tascam FW1082????

  • Thread starter Thread starter rancidkennedys
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rancidkennedys

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Hi everybody, I have quite the pickle here. :confused: :eek: :(
I need to know which one I should get.
Each of them have their pro's and con's.

DP-02 - ($450)
Pro's: 40G HD, Burns directly to CD, very nice look, effects, inexpensive
Con's: Only 2 XLR ins, no midi in from what I remember


FW1082 - ($600)
Pro's: Firewire to PC, many inputs, motorized faders, higher resolution
Con's: No HD, no effects, PC recording (vs being able to record anywhere)

Thanks for the help!! :o
 
Well, I haven't used either unit, but I am in the process of upgrading from a US-428 to the FW-1082. I can tell you the main issues that helped me arrive at this decision:
1. Firewire vs USB. I'm not a geek (any more than I have to be to comfortably record with a computer), but as I understand it, Firewire is much better for throughput when recording multiple tracks. USB relies on the CPU, which can be limiting. I've been recording 4 tracks simultaneously, but I need to record 8.
2. Portability. I've been using a laptop (Apple PowerBook G4) in conjunction with the 428, and it's a fairly portable system, but more flexible (and powerful) than a standalone unit like the DP-02. I've got a big padded bag that the whole rig fits into, so I can bring my system on-site. Of course, the DAW isn't battery-powered, so it still relies on being close to a power source.

It's really a matter of you stacking up the pros and cons, and making a choice based on your particular needs. I do all my mixing and mastering on the Mac, and I'm sure the flexibility and power I get there would be a trade-off for a standalone unit. Then again, being able to put your entire studio under your arm and head to the gig is pretty attractive too. Good luck--sounds like you really can't go wrong either way!

"There ain't no money above the third fret."
~Johnny Cash

Bob Wire
bobwiremusic.com
 
I'm assuming that the DP-02 is a much better version of the DP-01 FX I have. Having only two XLR inputs was a major frustration, and even a novice like me could see that the onboard effects left a little something to be desired. It's good for someone recording on their own, I guess.

Couldn't you use the FW-1082 with a laptop? Then you could still be portable...
 
no contest.... i've got the fw1884...
 
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