TASCAM DX-4D Compatible with a 52NB?

[Sennheiser]

I may have a DX-2D lined up for my new 52NB, but if that falls through is the DX-4D compatible with the 52NB?

I don't have a schematic or a pin-out on the DX-4D, but they are more available that the -2D unit and I'm wondering if it can be used.

Anyone know about this?

 

[Old Trout]

The DX-4D has a 6-pin "control signal" connector on the back as well as the RCA ins and outs. You need to have an input connector for this on your tape deck. It would be marked "DBX unit control signal".

I'm not sure if a Model 52 has such a connection.

I believe the DX-2D has a similar connector, the only difference probably being 4 channels of noise reduction vs. 2 on the DX-2D.

The "control signal" connection serves to switch between encode/decode of the DX unit automatically, during recording or playback. It won't work at all if there is no such connection on the 52.

If the 52 doesn't have it, you may have to go with a used DBX-150X unit. That has 2 channels of noise reduction, record/play switching on the front, and 1/4" TRS connectors to the deck and console. (ugh, more adapters) Info on the unit is still on the DBX website, though it is discontinued.

Another option may be the older DBX-150. It used RCA connectors for the deck and console. That was made when DBX was in Newton, MA.

All the above units are DBX Type 1 noise reduction.

 

[Sennheiser]

All TASCAM 30, 40, and 50 series decks have the DBX control connector for switching purposes.

I currently use two DX-4D units on my 38. I was curious if the pin out arrangements were possibly different on a half-track machine VS a multitrack machine. The units are too far from the 52 to reroute wiring from the 38 for a test and the control cable is not long enough to reach.

No matter, I have a 150 on the way. This is a passive unit with no switching required from record to repro.