Tascam Portacapture X 8

The Tascam Portacapture X8 is a high resolution adaptive linear PCM Multi-Recorder. This handheld recorder is equipped with an advanced array of features including support for up to 192kHz/32-bit float point recording that enables super clear and crisp audio recordings. Operated by its 3.5-inch colour touch screen and intuitive menu, this is an ideal unit for recording podcasts, music and more!

Tascam Portacapture X8 Key Features:

• Exceptional sound quality from high-resolution PCM recorder
• Ideal for recording podcasts, music, interviews & more
• A large colour touch screen & intuitive menu layout
• 6 different easy-to-use recording apps to choose from
• Sampling rates up to 192 kHz and 32-bit floating-point
• 2 detachable large-diaphragm condenser microphones
• Condenser mics can be set for A-B or X-Y configuration
• Built-in USB audio interface with 8 inputs and 2 outputs
• 4 mic/line inputs via XLR/TRS locking combo jacks
• Multi-track recording of up to 8 tracks (6 tracks & stereo mix)
• Camera/line input and output to monitor and record audio
• Phantom power (24 V / 48 V) can be set for each mic input individually
• Built-in mixer audio processing e.g. EQ, low-cut filter, compressor etc.
• Headphone audio monitoring or via the built-in loudspeaker
• Input signals received via USB can be recorded to an SD card

Expanded Tascam Portacapture X8 Key Features:

The All-Important Microphones

The Portacapture X8 is equipped with two high-quality, large-format condenser microphones, each with a diameter of 14.6 mm. There are both detachable and as a result, allow both L and R mics to be detached from the main unit to form A-B or X-Y mic patterns. This means you make use of an A-B pattern for wide stereo field audio and an X-Y for super-clear capture with reduced phase displacement between both channels.

The microphones have a preset level setting which means you can adjust levels with ease. They provide a wide dynamic range by utilising dual A/D converters and recording technology with 32-bit floating-point resolution that results in exceptional audio quality even with low-end recordings. Additionally, this allows you to edit the audio without deteriorating the signal-to-noise ratio (S/N).

Multi-Track Recording

The Portacapture X8 can simultaneously record up to eight audio tracks in total (six individual tracks + stereo mix), which adds a huge amount of flexibility and versatility. You can select which inputs are recorded on which tracks, apply noise-gate, compression, EQ and reverb like you would do on a mixing console. The Manual pre-installed app can be used to set your levels and stereo position for all 6 input tracks and will automatically create a stereo mix that can be shared internally or with your audience.

External Recording

The unit is fitted with four locking XLR/TRS combo inputs for mic- and line-level signals, as well as mini-jack inputs and outputs that can be used with your camera or other audio devices. This opens up a whole range of creative choices, allowing you to capture crisp, clear and professional level audio for your film or other creative projects. There’s also a headphone out that allows you to carefully monitor the audio your recording which is particularly useful in different recording environments.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x Portacapture X8
• 1 x Mics (left/right pair)
• 4 x AA alkaline batteries
• 1 x Owner's Manual (including warranty)
• 1 x TASCAM ID registration guide

FAQs:

Are there any preset modes??

There are 6 recording apps in total that are designed to make your life easier when recording. There’s, of course, a manual mode which is the main app for multi-track recording of up to six audio sources and a stereo mix (2-mix). But other than this, there are pre-calibrated apps including Voice, Podcast, Music, Field and ASMR.

What format does it record in?

Audio can be recorded in either WAV (BWF) or MP3 format. Furthermore, you can make use of the dual recording features that can record each track in a different file format.

Are there any pre-recording functions?

There’s a pre-recording feature that will start recording before the record key is pressed. Additionally, there’s an auto-recording function that will automatically start recording based on the input level

How big of an SD card can I use?

This unit accepts Micro SD cards up to 512 GB for recording media.

How is the recorder powered?

The X8 can be powered by four AA batteries (Alkaline, Ni-MH, Lithium), USB bus power or an optional AC adapter (Tascam PS-P520U). And there’s an automatic power select that will continue to use batteries should there be a power cut etc.

How much does this recorder weigh?

The whole unit, including batteries, weighs less than 500 grams. This means you can mount the mic directly on a DSLR or camera or combine it with AV rigs. It has a cold-shoe port and ¼” thread meaning you can mount it on other accessories too.