Tascam Model 12

[DM60]

Tascam Model 12

This looks like a very interesting unit. Anyone have any experience with it?

 

[Manslick]

I bought one. Returned it for a dedicated recorder. The model 12 is a mixer with recording features.

 

[DM60]

So it falls short of being an independent recorder for tracking?

 

[TalismanRich]

Manslick is right. They are mixers first that save individual tracks. They should be fine for basic tracking. How many mics would you be using at a time? Is this going to be a mobile setup, or a stay at home installation? They aren't really designed as a complete studio in a box. The effects and mixdown capabilities are less than you get with the Portastudios like the DP24 or DP32.

They would be great for a band playing live. With something like the Model 24 or 2400, you could feed a PA system while saving 16 mic feeds for later mixing in conjunction with a DAW.

 

[DM60]

For me, I wouldn't want to mix on it, just track. I would think most people, not all, but most, would just want to track. Plus the bonus it serves as an interface. I could see that being a good replacement for my interface. 12 for me would be plenty. Price doesn't seem bad either.

 

[TalismanRich]

That's how I've ended up using my Zoom R24. I've only mixed a couple of tunes on it. It's easier for me to work in Reaper. It's been great for throwing into a $20 Harbor Freight aluminum case, and setting it up somewhere to record. Vocals go into the mixer to feed the PA and to track 8, leaving 7 mics for instruments. Pull the SD card and put it in the computer, dump the files and mix it all down.

 

[Manslick]

So it falls short of being an independent recorder for tracking?

For me. Yes. For example. You can’t route an input to a different track. In 1 goes to track 1. You have to bounce the track to open it up. Plus it’s pricey if your goal is to use it solely for a DAW.
I really liked the form factor. It’s sexy.
But for me the Tascam DP 24SD is much better and way cheaper.

 

[DM60]

@Manslick I think your point is valid, once we get past the marketing, these things are tools, and each tool has a purpose. I understand how people get wrapped up in guitars, pianos, maybe even synths. But the equipment needs to serve a purpose, even to the crafts person (MR. PC) and making music is a craft.

Appreciate the input.

 

[Manslick]

@Manslick I think your point is valid, once we get past the marketing, these things are tools, and each tool has a purpose. I understand how people get wrapped up in guitars, pianos, maybe even synths. But the equipment needs to serve a purpose, even to the crafts person (MR. PC) and making music is a craft.

Appreciate the input.

There’s a guy on YouTube named Rhett Shull and he uses it to record his band. I’m not sure if he uses the DAW feature or not.

 

[DM60]

I saw this and there are a lot of people asking about interfaces, this looked like a very good candidate. My experience with Tascam has been very positive, thought would be a good replacement or a good start for many people.

 

[Manslick]

An interface is different.

 

[DM60]

My understanding this can be an interface. That is why I posted.

Model 12​

12-Track Digital Recording Mixer With DAW Controller & Audio Interface​

 

[PorterhouseMusic]

I don't own one - but I understood the Model 12 to be a fully functioning DAW-controller/interface (aside from being a capable digital mixer with recording capability).

 

[Manslick]

It’s a mystery device.