Tascam DR-60D: a four-track recorder designed for DSLR cameras

This four-track solid-state recorder uses high-performance HDDA preamplifiers and AD converters, all in a robust but lightweight package.

For those filmmakers and videojournalists who opt for the use of DSLR cameras but always find audio recording to be one of the main limitations of these cameras, Tascam now has its new DR-60D recorder. This four-track solid-state recorder uses high-performance HDDA preamplifiers and AD converters, all in a robust but lightweight device.

This device fits comfortably on any camera or platform, and will record up to 24bit 96kHz high-quality audio direct to an SD/SDHC card. DSLR professionals have at their disposal 2 ¼"-XLR combo Micro/Line inputs, 1 3.5mm Microphone input, camera IN, Camera OUT, LINE OUT and headphone output. The two XLR combo inputs provide convenient +48V Phantom Power and the 3.5mm microphone input provides bias voltage.

The DR-60D uses the popular Tascam user interface and has external controls for the most common operations. The body structure, soft keys and dials have been specifically designed to help eliminate handling noise. Multiple recording modes include; 4-channel recording, self-recording and “Dual Record Safety Track” mode. Dual-recording mode allows you to record two files simultaneously at two different levels, while Auto-recording allows you to activate/deactivate recording at a certain level. The pre-recording mode, for its part, offers to record two seconds of buffer before the recording is activated.

Main Features

Recording to SD/SDHC card up to 32Gb.

Recording 4 tracks simultaneously.

Recording modes: Mono, stereo, dual mono, dual stereo, 4-channel.

Recording formats: 44.1/48/96kHz 16/24bit (WAV/BWF).

Previos TASCAM HDDA.

Independently adjustable levels for channels 1L, 2R and 3-4.

2 XLR/TRS +4dBu line level and Pahntom Power inputs (24 or 48VDC in XLRF).

CAMERA OUT connector to output the DR-60D mixer (adjustable gain).

CAMERA IN connector for monitoring from the camera.

High-quality line output and independently adjustable headphones.

50mW/ch headphone output.

Tripod mounting socket (below) and DSLR mounting screw (above).

Handles to protect the screen that can be used for a belt.

Soft rubber keys for quiet operation.

HOLD key to avoid accidental activity.

QUICK button for quick access to various functions.

Backlit 128x64 pixel LCD screen.

USB 2.0 connection for high-speed file transfer.

Mini USB cable included

Operates on 4-AA batteries, AC power adapter (not included) or USB.

Dedicated remote control with Jack for the RC-10 or the RC-3F footswitch (not included).

Internal mixer with PAN and LEVEL controls.

Low-pass filter (40/80/120Hz).

Limiter (1/L and 2/R can be linked).

Delay function for microphone distance adjustment (up to 150ms).

M-S decoding function.

Clapper tone generator.(AUTO/MANUAL).

Selectable count tone duration with 4 positions (0.5/1/2/3 seconds, when auto-generated).

Clapper tone generation selector. 3 positions: OFF/HEAD/HEAD+TAIL, when autogenerated)

Recording files can be automatically named with a word or date.

Jump back and play function.

Equalizer for playback and alignment adjustment to improve pressure perception.

Resume function to memorize the playback position before the unit turns off.

99 Markers (MARK) for each audio track.