M-Audio MicroTrack II - Digital voice recorder - MP3

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M-Audio MicroTrack II Professional 2-Channel Mobile Digital RecorderThe redesigned MicroTrack II brings even more professional features to the original high-fidelity mobile digital recorder that's been embraced by audio and film professionals worldwide. With an extended input gain range, analog input limiter, 48V phantom power, faster file transfer rate and other enhancements, MicroTrack II delivers the highest quality mobile recording experience available today. Simply record WAV, BWF and MP3 files to CompactFlash or Microdrives through balanced line inputs or built-in microphone preamps-then drag and drop recordings to your computer via high-speed USB 2.0 for immediate editing or Web posting. MicroTrack II is perfect for a wide variety of applications including field recording, capturing live shows, songwriting, education and more.MicroTrack II Features2-channel WAV, BWF and MP3 recording and playback for pro recording, capturing live shows, songwriting, training, education, worship and moreImmediate drag-and-drop file transfer to PC and Mac via high-speed USB 2.0 mini-connectorSeamless recording of files greater than 2GBEasily add markers to BWF filesProfessional balanced 1/4 inch TRS inputs capable of mic or line-level signalsExtended input gain rangeAnalog input limiter with bypassSeparate left and right input level controls with signal and peak indicatorsDual microphone preamps with 48V phantom power for studio microphones1/8 inch TRS input with 5V power for use with stereo electret microphone (microphone included)S/PDIF coaxial input for digital transfersMonitoring via RCA line outputs or 1/8" stereo headphone outputMonitor S/PDIF input via headphones while recordingCustomizable folders for organizing filesDedicated buttons for navigation, record, hold, pause, delete, menu, and powerStorage via convenient CompactFlash or Microd
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Technical Details

- 2-channel WAV and MP3 recording and playback
- Battery-operated
- Immediate drag-and-drop file transfer
- Balanced 1/4" TRS inputs with line inputs
- S/PDIF digital input
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 "Total waste of money" 2010-02-27
By Bruce E. Williams
I bought one of these last year and have had nothing but problems. First and worst: it is utterly unreliable - it will APPEAR to be recording just fine (monitoring and meters work, Rec. light is on), but when you press a control button, you'll discover the unit is actually 'frozen' - the buttons don't work, and nothing has been recorded. The battery lasts about 30 min., and it is factory-replaceable ONLY - it will cost you $80.00 to have that done. The dim blue display is virtually unreadable in dim light, and boot-up and file xfers take WAY too long. If you want to play "Recording Roulette", this box is for you. If you want to RECORD, get a Tascam DR-1 - it's comparably priced and superior to this unit in every way.



The 'M' in M-Audio must stand for 'misbegotten'...

 "Great for the money and has digital input!" 2010-01-14
By Bruce Rutkoski (Ravenna, Ohio)
Lots of people have poor reviews for this great little recorder, but it offers a some things others don't, a digital, SPDIF, audio input. The mic and line inputs are relatively noisy, (85dB dynamic range) compared to most other recorders in it's class, but not a lot worse. Most other recorders in this class offer about a 90dB dynamic range. If you are recording music, you probably wouldn't know the difference. But, if you need the best, lowest noise recordings, you can use external microphone preamps with SPDIF outputs to input to this recorder, giving you superior audio to any other recorder in it's class. For the price of a good microphone preamp and this inexpensive recorder, you can beat $1500 dollar equipment in performance, exceeding 115dB dynamic range. It offers phantom power and you can use an external usb battery pack to extend the battery life. I hope M-Audio redesigns this with a new model that uses SD cards with a better internal mic amp.



I have been using the Microtrack and Microtrack II for years as a bit bucket using an external mic amp with an SPDIF output. They are cheap enough to have spares in the field.

 "Stay away from this one!!!!" 2009-10-29
By G. Dochtermann (Alfred, ME)
First unit was DOA, the one I have now is intermittent. Sometimes it won't power up, sometimes it only stays on if you hold the power button (lousy!). I would recommend that amnyone searching for a portable recorder AVOID this unit, as it is not reliable. When it works, the quality is great, but that it actually works is rare. SHAME ON YOU M-AUDIO!

 "Excellent sound and ease of use" 2009-08-30
By TomVette (N. Texas)



I've recorded for years. Mostly live jazz or piano at home. As background I still have Revox open reels and larger digital recorders. I tested this mike in several settings using the included mike and a pair of Shure SM81s powered by the Microtrack IIs phantom power.



Recordings were made at 16 bit 44.1 and 24 bit 96K. Bottom line is the recorder has a very natural analog type sound. The mid range is full bodied and the recording is liquid sounding and rich in acoustic information regarding placement and room ambience. What I mean is the recorder has the resolving power and quality of electronics to capture suble detail.



Some other units I've tested are a bit drier in sound.



This unit is simply superb if your focus is sound instead of features. The phantom power drove the SM81s well and the noise floor was reasonable.

 "Dead On Arrival" 2009-06-23
By Max
I decided to order the Microtrack II, after my friend told me about his good experience with the first-generation Microtrack. Mine arrived on time and in pristine condition, but it was dead on arrival. After fully charging the device and turning it on, I simply got a message that said "Insert rescue disk!" I found the knowledge base regarding this issue (it must be a fairly common problem), and followed its recommendations, which involved formatting a CF card and adding repair files to it. Still no luck.



I contacted M-Audio support, and they sent a FedEx shipment code so that I can send it to them for repairs. This should take about two weeks, and hopefully it will be fixed. But I can't recommend a product that immediately fails on its initial run.


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New Pink Acoustic Guitar W/ Accessories Combo Kit Beginners

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Brand new Pink 38" Acoustic Guitar. This guitar has an attractive pink finish. This guitar is a combo package that comes with a guitar case, extra set of strings, pick, and a tuner. We purchase all of our guitars directly from the manufacture, providing you with the best prices available online. .

Full wood construction

Shoulder Strap / Belt

Extra set of Strings

Great gloss finish

Easy to use Tuner

Nice Carrying Bag

38 inches long

Steel strings

Guitar Pic

Perfect for beginners

Brand new in Retail Packaging
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Technical Details

- Acoustic guitar; pink
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 "bad buy" 2010-02-11
By Calogero Gambino
we bought this guitar for our kids for Christmas. We were extremely disappointed in it. There were chips in the guitar. The Guitar would not stay in tune. There were imperfections with the bridge, so some of the strings would buzz. We would never buy this guitar again and would not recommend this product to anyone!

 "Okay for the price....I guess" 2010-02-05
By Memphisborn4ever
I already had a great Valencia guitar. I guess i wuz used to one of the best because this isnt as good as a normal classical guitar. the only reason i purchased this item wuz because it wuz pink and extremly cute. i've only had it for a day but so far its been hard getting it in tune. it might sound better with classical guitar strings. it CAME with imperfections such as the paint missing at the top (just barely though), the wood work looking a tad bit sloppy (above the neck) and mabye 2 or 3 dark spots. the guitar is not as dark pink as it looks in the picture but thats okay. if you are buying this as your first real guitar i suggest something like craigslist. thats where i found my greatly loved valencia guitar for only $70. this is more like a neat LOOKING, not playing, novelty guitar.

 "NEVER RECEIVED IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!" 2010-02-04
By S. Manriquez
I NEVER Received this item and was NEVER refunded or anything so I can not review. I can only say be careful buying from both Amazon and Sky Enterprise USA as neither helped me get my refund. So not only did I pay for the item but my 6 year woke up to no "Santa" gift!!!!!


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D'Addario EJ15-3D Phosphor Bronze Extra Light Acoustic Guitar Strings, 3 Sets

Buy Cheap D'Addario EJ15-3D Phosphor Bronze Extra Light Acoustic Guitar Strings, 3 Sets

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3-Pack: D'Addario Phopshor Bronze Acoustic Guitar strings are acclaimed worldwide for their great - long-lasting tone. Phosphor Bronze was introduced to string making by D'Addario in 1974 and has become synonymous with warm acoustic tone.
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Technical Details

- Acclaimed worldwide for their great, long-lasting tone
- Phosphor Bronze was introduced to string making by D'Addario in 1974
- Durable, long-lasting
- Bright sounding
- Retain brilliance longer than other bronze and brass alloys
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 "My Favorites" 2009-07-07
By Hutif
Good strings as long as you're looking for really light-weight/low-tension strings. They have a nice, warm tone that seams to last for about a month or two (pushing it) of regular use. I'm not a professional, but I play my guitar for at least an hour every day and I find that these strings work well and are relatively inexpensive. Have only had one string break on me: It was the third string while I was changing to an open tuning and the old string just couldn't handle increased tension. Usually I replace them before there's any chance of breaking which is a good idea with any strings. Give 'em a shot.

 "D'Addario strings" 2009-06-06
By Robert C. Pappenfort (meeteetse Wy.)
These are good strings for the price but like most things these days, the quality isn't what it used to be. While changing strings, the end of the B string fell right off in the guitar. I was able to repair it and use the string, I was at home, but if I had been at a gig and had to fish around in my guitar body for a string end it would have been a real bummer.


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Seagull S6 Original Acoustic Guitar

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Winner of several awards, the S6 is the instrument that best represents the Seagull philosophy. The S6 is affordable and gives entry-level players the opportunity to experience the great feel and superb sound provided by a hand-finished neck, solid cedar top and genuine lacquer finish. Gorgeous domestic wild cherry back and sides provide a unique tone between the warmth of mahogany with the crisp definition of maple. The silver leaf maple neck on a shorter 24.84" scale with a rosewood fretboard is easy on the fingers, while specially aligned machine heads make for quick, stable tuning.

Solid cedar top Wild cherry back and sides Rosewood fingerboard and bridge Tusq nut and compensated saddle Semi-gloss lacquer finish

Warm Appearance and Sound
The S6 has a solid cedar top with beautiful wild cherry sides and back, finished in a semi-gloss lacquer. The saddle and bridge are both made of rosewood. With a sound that lands somewhere between the mellow tone of mahogany and the bright ring of maple, wild cherry has gives an excellent tone to guitars. Because of the mix of cedar and cherry wood, both the sound and appearance is warm, dark, and full.

Solid cedar top is joined with wild cherry sides and back for a warm sound and appearance.

Reverse Headstock
Each Seagull neck starts out as a single piece of mahogany or Silver Leaf maple. The wood is cut at a 45 degree angle after which the top piece--the Headstock--is glued back on with the grain reversed. This is an essential step in the Seagull process for creating incredibly stable necks.

Tuning Made Easy
You may have wondered why it is that even after you have carefully tuned each string, it is often necessary to go back and make further adjustments on a few of the strings. This is because the neck moves slightly as you change the tension of the strings. Therefore you don't just tune the strings, you "balance" the neck at the same time. The tapered headstock on Seagull guitars provides straight string pull, which minimizes the neck twisting effect. This ensures that it will be easier to get your guitar in tune and keep it that way. This is particularly advantageous for the growing ranks of players who use open tunings.

The Seagull Neck
Neck crafting is an art and the luthiers who sand each Seagull neck to our exacting specifications take their art very seriously. Comfort, sound, and stability are the three key ingredients that Seagull aims for in a guitar neck. Comfort is especially important these days because acoustic players are playing all over the neck--not just open chords below the third fret. A slim, comfortable neck not only accommodates playing all over the neck but also reduces fatigue. On the other hand, the vibration of the neck is an important contributor to the sound of the guitar and if the neck is too slim the guitar will suffer in the sound department.

Features a tapered headstock, which minimizes neck twisting and makes it easier to keep your guitar in tune.

Double Action Truss System
Most guitars employ an adjustable metal rod inside the neck called a truss rod. The truss rod is typically used to straighten the neck when it becomes slightly bowed from string tension and changes in humidity. In the event of a neck becoming back-bowed, the traditional fix is to loosen the truss rod and allow the string tension to pull the neck back to its ideal form. Unfortunately this doesn't always work which is why we adapted a new double-action truss rod in Seagull necks. The new rod bends in both directions, which provides unprecedented control over the neck whether it is under-bowed or over-bowed.

The Heel
Did you ever notice that a guitar that sounds perfectly in tune needs to be re-tuned slightly when passed from one player to another? This has to do with the fact that different players place varying amounts of weight and pressure on the neck and this affects tuning. Years ago we discovered that this problem could be alleviated by inserting maple dowels through the heel of the neck. This reinforcement makes the neck several times stronger.

Neck Pitch
In order to enjoy all of the advantages of a well-crafted neck, a great deal of care must be given when joining it to the guitar body. The angle of a guitar's neck attachment--often called "neck pitch"--plays a crucial role in the instrument's tone. Simply put; if the neck is too far back, the guitar will lose its bass and sound tinny. On the other hand, if the neck angle is too far forward, the guitar will lose its high frequency response and sound muddy. The Seagull neck attachment system insures consistent neck pitch. It also produces the added advantage of a superior neck/body energy transfer because the neck is attached to the body with a clean wood-to-wood connection. There is no glue to impede the vibration between the heel of the neck and the guitars body.

Compensated Seagull Saddle
Seagull guitars feature Tusq nuts and saddles. The fully compensated saddle helps Seagull guitars to play beautifully in-tune all over the neck.

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Technical Details

- Made in North America
- Select Pressure Tested Top
- Double Action Truss Rod
- Tapered Headstock for precise and stable tuning and great for open tunings
- Tusq nut and compensated saddle for better intonation
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 "Excellent starter guitar!" 2010-08-07
By Psych fan
I am just learning to play the guitar, and after doing an online search about the best starter guitar I found the Seagull. First, I need to compliment amazon for sending the guitar through FedEx; it arrived well-packaged and in just a few days. The neck is wide, assisting me in playing chords right away. The sound is exceptional, with the resounding resonance lingering after each note is played. It is not only a thrill to play, it is extremely well-made. Highly recommended for the beginning guitarist.

 "Best value at this price point or even three times as much" 2010-04-18
By R. Rangel (Chicago)
I bought this guitar in 2005. It sounds and looks wonderful and manages to stay that way. I think this is a good guitar and when you think that something that might sound better would cost three to four times as much it is a great guitar for the value.



This model has the cedar top. I love that sound vs the more typical spruce top on flattop guitars. It is a bit more mellow and has a hint of a classical guitar tone because of that. If you prefer the bright concert sound of a Martin then you'll not want this cedar top.



Yes this guitar has an oiled finish. This allows the soundboard to really sing unimpeded. It also allows you to knock the heck out of it. Funny thing is that after five years there isn't much damage just a little arm wear. I think you'll like this guitar enough to not knock it around.



The neck feels silky smooth. The frets are well placed and don't stab you by hanging over the neck a little which is what you'll get in other guitars in this price range. Paying to get the frets filed down is an additional expense on those competitors so beware when comparing.



This doesn't come with a case so I bought a hard shell by the brand name "Canadian". Great case.



When I bought it it really didn't need an adjustment but I took it to a local shop to make it perfect for me. I've also taken it in every other year for setting the action - checking and tweaking the neck - and getting the frets polished. I also use a humidifier in its case during the winter months in Chicago. Performing these tasks will prolong the life of your Seagull and your enjoyment of it.

 "Excellent guitar for the money -- excellent delivery" 2010-04-17
By D. Stovall (Anchorage, AK United States)
I ordered this as a gift -- placed the order late Thursday and it arrived on Saturday morning via FedEx (this was the free shipping by Amazon). Excellent service. The guitar arrived in perfect shape and the recipient just called us and said it sounds perfect.



Compare this to a Blue Ridge guitar I bought a few years ago. The Blue Ridge came from China, it cost 50% more, it had much poorer sound and developed a buzz after the first year.



The Seagull came from Quebec, Canada, it is superior in every way, and cost less.

 "S6 gets 10" 2010-01-14
By P. Smith
For those of you searching for a great guitar... period, you can do no better than a Seagull S6. i did my research for what seemed like an eternity and spent alot of time at local guitar shops and have found a gem in the S6. Stunning craftsmanship, great action, warm sound, all bundled into an outstanding package that looks, sounds, and plays like a $1000+ guitar for a third of that price! You cant go wrong, except to pass it by.

 "Excellent guitar!" 2009-10-01
By its_okay (us city)
Beautiful guitar. This guitar beats all of them in sound & looks. It was priced at Amazon full price in our local music store. We had to bring it to a local music store to have the shoulder strap installed since this guitar only has one peg for the shoulder strap. Also bought the tric case from the local store since I was not sure if the same case they have here at amazon fits the S6. Don't hesitate, buy S6 here in Amazon. They packaged it well & it arrived in 2 days with my prime membership.


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AB 38 Inch Blue Cutaway Acoustic Guitar with Gig Bag and Accessories

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This Acoustic Guitar is 38 inches in length. It has Linden Binding and wood construction with geared tuning. Each Guitar comes with gig bag and strap. The Acoustic Guitar is perhaps the most versatile and common guitar type. Perfect for the beginner or intermediate player. The tuning pegs are made of brass and steel for easy tuning and to keep the tuned string held in position. This Guitar also makes a great gift!
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Technical Details

- Steel Strings
- Great design with High Gloss Finish
- Linden Binding with a Betula Top and Geared Tuning
- Quality Wood Construction
- Comes with Gig Bag and strap
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 "Worthless" 2010-04-14
By PFC Barnett Troy (Boringville Ky)
I wanted an acoustic guitar along with my electric guitars yet Im not too enthusiastic about acoustic so I didnt wanna spend alot of money for one. What a mistake to take the chances with this esp after reading so many other bad reviews. This extremely cheap feelin guitar cant even play right no matter how much time you spend tuning it. The strings are not only incapable of being tuned but are too far off the fretboard! THis can literally not be played. I actually gave this to my young cuzin as a toy basically and I think its broke by now. Not cause of him but how could a guitar like this last in anyones hands? The only thing I kept was the non-electric tuner that came with it, which is also a lil crappy. Buying this is throwing money down the toilet...money that you COULD use toward buying a real guitar.

 "Christmas Gift" 2010-02-08
By Katrina Terry (Atlanta, GA)
My husband always wanted to learn how to play the guitar. This was a wonderful gift for him. It was his favorite color as well. My only disappointment is that none of the accessories were with the gig bag, so that left us having to buy a strap and other items he wanted and/or needed with the guitar.

 "Poor Quality Guitar, Good Customer Service" 2009-11-23
By Randy L. Montgomery
This guitar arrived in very poor condition(dents, scratches, poorly painted) and played terribly terribly terribly - but their customer service dept was helpful straightening it out.

 "Bad starter guitar" 2009-11-16
By Roxy Raccoon
I got the guitar for Christmas last year and it was so beautiful, but when I stroked the strings, the sound was awful, it was impossible to tune and will only make a beginner (like me) extremely frustrated. It's nice to hang on the wall but NOT for playing!

 "Extremely Happy" 2009-01-06
By James R. Allen (Fort Drum, Ny)
I ordered the guitar for my son for Christmas and he loves it. It has great sound and is great for beginers and advanced players. It came with everything you need to get started accept for guitar tabs and music sheets, which you can find online. This was his favorite Christmas gift. The price was great too.



Thank You So Much,

Amber Allen


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D'Addario EJ16-10P Phosphor Bronze Light Acoustic Guitar Strings, 10 Sets

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D'Addario Phosphor Bronze Light Acoustic Guitar Strings For a Warm, Balanced Sound

When it comes to your guitar, you need the right strings. D'Addario Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar strings are acclaimed worldwide for their superb, long-lasting tone. Phosphor Bronze was introduced to string making by D'Addario in 1974 and has become synonymous with warm, bright, and well balanced acoustic tone. D'Addario's most popular acoustic guitar strings.

History of Quality and Sound
The first metal guitar strings were invented in the 1920s and revealed to the world in the 1930s. Ever since then, guitarists have not looked back. These guitar strings are made from a Phosphor Bronze alloy that produce a warm balanced sound when properly strung. Each strum and pluck of the Phosphor Bronze string pulls the most sensitive, expressive tone that brings out the very best in guitars.

String Tension 101
Modern music has become so sub-divided and fragmented that there is no longer one turn-key string solution for every playing style or desired sound. At one point in time, there were no standardized string gauges, but John D’Addario Sr. changed all that in 1939 with the introduction of light, medium and heavy gauges for acoustic instruments.

Throughout most of the 20th century, standardized electric and acoustic guitar gauges were sufficient for needs. Occasionally, new gauges (often hybrids of existing sets), were created for specific purposes and string offerings from manufacturers became immense. However, today there are so many popular styles and trends that it is often necessary for players to go outside of standard gauge sets to get the effect they desire. Whether it’s open tunings, drop tunings, baritone guitars, 5-string guitars, 7-string guitars or a variety of other reasons, many players are opting to go their own way and customize their string selection and sound.

Why Do You Need To Know About String Tension?
D’Addario receives hundreds of inquiries each year from players who have questions or problems to solve related to string gauges or tensions. To assist players in determining the appropriate string for their needs, we created the Online String Tension Guide, a complete book of charts for determining the appropriate string to be used in just about any situation. The guide includes formulas for determining string tension for any string on any instrument type or scale length using three basic measurements: the Unit Weight, the Scale Length of the instrument, and the Frequency of the string. If scientific formulas aren’t your strong point, we have pitch/tension charts for just about every string we make, including electric guitar, acoustic guitar, classical guitar, and bass guitar.

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Technical Details

- 10 Sets of Strings
- Phosphor Bronze Round Wound Strings
- Produces Warm Acoustic Guitar Tone!
- Feature Computer-Controlled Wrapping
- Gauges Range from 0.012 to 0.053
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 "D'Addario Best Strings Ever!" 2010-08-10
By Bert Fonte (Leadville, Colorado)
I've been a professional musician for 35+ years and hands down no strings compare to the quality and price of D'Addario's. I've tried all the fancy boutique strings out there and trust me, none produce the sound or brilliance of D'Addario.

 "Great String" 2010-07-26
By caseyg
I really like this guitar strings. I have tried several different brands and I think these have the best sound for as light as they are. They seem to last a lot longer than the other brands I've used.

 "best deal on solid strings" 2010-06-16
By Anti-Climacus (waco, tx)
While these strings aren't my favorite, I do like them and this multipack in a very economical option for very decent/good sounding strings.

 "great strings" 2009-08-31
By Stephen G. Allen (South Carolina)
I use D'addario strings on all of my instruments. They have great tone and last a long time.

 "D'Addario EJ16 ten pack light acoustic strings" 2009-04-01
By Ricky A. Cronkite (Cashion,Ok)
These strings sound great after an hour or two break-in. Once settled in they stay in tune and last a long time. I play them on an Ovation 1778 and on my Epiphone AJ-30. Very good tone and harmonics. Good price on the 10 pack. Thanks, R.C.


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Tascam DP-02 Digital Portastudio - 8 Track

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The Tascam DP-02 makes recording simple by matching 8-track CD-quality recording with a Portastudio interface – so you can ditch the menus and concentrate on the music. A pair of record-quality Tascam mic pres features XLR inputs with phantom power for condenser mics and a guitar in for direct recording. Each channel gives you dedicated controls for instant access to fader level, record arm/track mute, pan, effect send, high and low EQ. There's also an EQ frequency button for finer control over the mix. Two effects processors are included in the DP-02. A multieffects processor on the input provides great-sounding overdrive, flange, delay and more for your guitar, vocal, drum and bass tracks. In addition, there's a reverb processor on a send and return for adding hall, room, plate or chamber reverb to your mix. The DP-02 is loaded with great Tascam extras like a chromatic tuner, metronome, and bar-and-beat display for getting around your song. The DP-02 records two channels at a time to a built-in 40GB hard drive. When you're satisfied with your production, arm the dedicated master track for your stereo mixdown. You can transfer your tracks and mixes or backup your song to a computer through a speedy USB 2.0 connection or burn it to a CD with the slot-loading drive. No other workstation makes recording so simple, affordable and fun as the Tascam DP-02.
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Technical Details

- Two XLR mic/line inputs with phantom power for condenser microphones^Eight-track recording at uncompressed 44.1k/16-bit audio quality^Portastudio-based interface with volume fader, pan, effect send, high and low EQ controls per channel^EQ frequency button to access high and low EQ shelf frequencies^USB 2.0 interface for transferring tracks, mixes and backup files to a computer
- Two XLR mic/line inputs with phantom power for condenser microphones
- Eight-track recording at uncompressed 44.1k/16-bit audio quality
- Portastudio-based interface with volume fader, pan, effect send, high and low EQ controls per channel
- EQ frequency button to access high and low EQ shelf frequencies
- USB 2.0 interface for transferring tracks, mixes and backup files to a computer
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 "Not recommended for novice home recorders (like myself)" 2010-08-10
By Book Books
My cassette four-track recorder (analog) had seen better days and I was looking to expand to an 8-track digital recorder with more tracks and, presumably, better sound. I bought the Tascam DP-02 a year ago and I have to say, in that time, I've chalked this purchase up as a real loss.



While the controls are easy to use and the unit is very portable, this is not a good for novice home recorders who want to quickly capture a "good enough" sound. If, being a novice like myself, you plug a mic directly into the machine without a pre-amp or mixing board or any other such gear and then start recording vocals, you'll notice the digital distortion right away in headphones-- especially a really, really irritating high-pitched sound. That sound will render many vocals either too quiet to hear or painful to listen to for extended amounts of time. I don't know if this is typical of digital recorders or not, but it made me not want to waste time with this unit. Honestly, I can plug a mic into my computer and get better sound. Maybe Pro-Tools beckons, or maybe I just need to get back to analog...



On a related note, the mixing controls are not intuitive and can often leave tracks buried in the mud sonically, with no way to boost them into audible range without crunchy digital distortion or a tunnel-like sound.



The crashing of the system, as another reviewer pointed out, can be annoying too. It can delete a great track-- that is, if you're lucky enough to coax one out of this machine in the first place.

 "Do Your Homework" 2010-08-02
By lauecap (Northern CA)
This is a fantastic recorder, but there is a learning curve. If you know next to nothing about how recording in a studio works like me, heed my advice. First, download and print out the maunual, (several sites have it in PDF form),next, put it into a three ring binder and study it by reading it at least three or four times. Concentrate on the sections entitled: "Song Creation" and "Recording a Song". Then take your binder to a Guitar Center where they have them set up and plugged in. Spend an hour or so working all the menus, sliders and dials. I was there an hour and a half and nobody ever said one word to me. As to the price, If you do your research you can get it for half of average retail. Hint: the best price on the net is from an Amazon Reseller.

 "Grade A- for home recording!" 2010-06-10
By Andrew M. Bland (Terre Haute, IN)
I am a multi-instrumentalist who creates atmospheric soundscapes that integrate electronic music with American folk instruments, woodwinds, and world percussion. I am a strong advocate for the *process* of recording music (which I liken with cooking) as opposed to mechanically generating beats and tones (which I liken with microwaving).



After some ambivalence over the transition from an analog to a digital Portastudio, I decided to go with this 8-track to replace my cassette 4-track when recording electronic music. (I still use the analog machine for recording guitar-bass-drums material which I then mix and master on computer, but to capture the fuller range of direct-input synths and drum machines it really is necessary to use a digital machine.)



With the DP-02, I have been more than impressed with the fact that I can combine analog and digital recordings on an album without differences in tonal quality becoming a distraction.



I would agree with other reviewers that the machine holds up quite well. It has frozen up only once, and that was at the end of a very long session (7 hours) on a summer afternoon in a stuffy attic studio.



I have discovered only four major drawbacks with this machine:



First, whereas my dynamic mics worked like a charm with my analog machine, this model does require a preamp to drive acoustic instruments into the mix. (On the other hand, the preamp does help generate a sense of warmth that I miss from the analog recorder!) With the DP-02, it is VERY important to keep an ear on the input level (for both mic and line in). When set too high it will pick up the sound of the internal hard drive, which has stained the recordings of some very good spontaneous moments with a high-pitched whizzing sound (thankfully I was able to restore them via computer software, but it took some work and some of the clarity became dulled). My advice, therefore, is to set the input level lower and to crank the output on your instrument/amp and/or to close-mic (just try to avoid clipping from the preamp by adjusting its volume level as needed). I have found that the balance *will* come out in the wash during the mixing/editing phase.



Second, the DP-02's EQ and effects are good (though I really only use reverb - any other effects I tend to introduce at the instrument/amp level), and the hardware durability is outstanding (I've had this machine for about a year now and it has definitely withstood the test of time). However, I have found that the on-board mixes on this machine are muddier than those made via software. I find this disappointing because I would much prefer to use my hands to operate the sliders and pots than to sit before a computer screen pointing and clicking a mouse. On the other hand, two advantages to doing mixes by computer are: (a) the difference between 0 and 1, between 1 and 1.5, between 1.5 and 2, etc. on the DP-02 volume sliders is substantial, which makes it difficult to make subtle adjustments without affecting the entire mix, and (b) whereas software has an "undo" button, one mistake during a stereo mixdown on the DP-02 and one has to start over. All that said, I would say that the SmartCard model may be better than the CD model because it is about $150 cheaper!



Third, I love the fact that I can upload each song track by track to a computer via USB cable and then mix/edit/master/burn to CD or upload to internet from there. However, the transfer to computer process does take a while (between 5 and 25 minutes for a 2:30 song, depending on the number of tracks used and how involved the wave forms are). Uploading only can occur one song at a time, and the USB cable must be disconnected between uploads. In turn, I cannot set the DP-02 to upload 8-10 songs at a time and then leave the machine running while I do something else for a while. So bring a book during the transfer process.



Fourth, I concur with the other reviewers that the manual is a mess. However, don't let this discourage you. The procedures are actually quite simple, and I was able to get them all down after about two (or at most three) times around. (Meantime, simply writing out my own set of step-by-step instructions was a good enough reminder when need be.)



Now to the positives. In addition to those I mentioned above, I would say that the DP-02 serves as an outstanding blank canvas. What goes in is what comes out - which is not something I can always say for recording equipment (digital or analog). It works just fine with a $100 stereo receiver and some good speakers for a monitor system (e.g., no need for a fancy mixing set-up). And again, it is very well constructed and should hold up for several good years (assuming that one cares for equipment).



Overall, for home recording I'd give this an A-. (In comparison, I would give my old 4-track cassette Portastudio the full A, and my old 1970s TEAC open reel a C+.) Comparisons and preferences are always subjective, and no one piece of equipment will ever receive a perfect score. But for what the DP-02 is designed for, it gets the job done.

 "Tascam DP-02 Digital Portastudio - 8 Track" 2010-03-31
By Vestige (PA)
This Portastudio is great, and exactly what I have been looking for. I have had no problems whatsoever with it, and it has worked like a charm. As far as other people, I'm sure they have gotten bad units. It happens with all electronics. Sometimes a bad batch of units gets sent out, or one out of ten has a defect, or sometimes they fix the problems but older versions are still being sent from store inventory. Whatever the case may be, it works amazing, unless you are one of the unlucky ones who gets a defective one.



I am a heavy metal guitarist, and I use this to write my own tracks, and lay down drums and all. This works great if you want to finalize the track and burn it to a cd, but most of the time I will send it to my computer for final mastering. Why don't I do it all through my computer, you may ask? This is hassle free, it has no lag in the sound, and I can start it up and start recording when I have an idea, rather than get my computer turned on and all set up. Plus this unit has great sound quality. Before this, I have recorded directly to my computer for a few years. I enjoy this a lot more.



The guitar effects are decent on it, and can be used by themselves without a preamp, but they do sound weak. Being a metal guitarist, the built in effects don't quite have the sound I need, such as heavy distortion, gain, and harmonics. It does have some metal tones on it, but believe me, not what I need. It would work well for acoustic stuff though, and for some light rock. So basically I still use a preamp in front of it, even while using built in effects, putting a preamp in front of it helps immensely.



This unit is only an 8 track, and you can only record 2 tracks ata time, but this shouldn't be a problem if you're the only one doing all of the recording, or if you're taking turns laying down your parts, like you should during studio recording. But if you wanted to record all 8 tracks, say as a live performance, it won't work. I use two tracks for rhuthm guitar, two tracks for lead guitar, two more for the second lead guitar, and two more for drums. Works great in that recording aspect. If you run out of tracks, just send them to your computer (for final mastering later) and then just delete them off of the unit to make more room.



Ok, to sum it all up, here are my final thoughts on everything:



* This unit works great, whether it be used as a standalone unit or mastered on your computer,

either way it IS COMPLETELY worth it.

* Although the amp effects in this are a little weak sounding for metal, you simply just add a

preamp in front of this and it sounds great. Plus the effects for acoustic or lighter

sounding guitar work great, since you don't need to use pinch harmonics or gain, etc.

* Works great for self recording, laying down ideas, or self creating entire tracks or albums.

I lay down my drum tracks, my rhythm tracks, then my lead tracks.

* Even though there is not a ton of final track mastering features, or barely any at all, what

it has works very nice. You CAN silence parts of tracks, such as in between where the guitar

is not being played, so you can take out all that unnecessary bad noise.

* You can hook it up to your computer and transfer all your tracks, so you can do final

mastering on your computer, back-up tracks, etc.



And most of all, it IS really easy to use. don't let everyone else convince you otherwise. Within one single weekend, you should easily be accustomed to it and be fairly familiar with it. Within a couple days, recording really is that simple. If you use built in effects, just remember what they are, so you can dial them in in the future easily. Just to give you a run down of my everyday operation, I want you to see how easy and fast it is. I plug it in, I start it up, I create a new track, I assign the guitar input to the tracks I want it to record on, I set my effects, and I record! Then whe nswitching to different tracks, you simply deselect the current ones, and select the new ones. It's that simple, and takes two seconds! What's better than this, is the fact that if you had a recording session going the previous session, and saved it (always save your session or you will lose it), then upon startup, it will load your previous used session, so all you have to do is turn it on and record! That simple!



So all in all, this IS completely worth purchasing, if you plan on using it the ways that I have mentioned. It really is an amazing piece of equitment, and I have looked at many many others before deciding upon this one.



The soft case for this DP-02 is well worth checking out, as I have also wrote a review on that to help out. If you have any questions, feel free to comment, and I will respond and answer them for you to help as much as I can!

 "100% Happy with this recorder." 2009-07-01
By J. Healey (Phoenix, AZ USA)
This is an outstanding system for demo recording and I am sure it would also be useful for live recordings with some added components.



After much research, I purchased the Tascam DP02 Portastudio instead of the Boss BR900CD. I had previously used the BR900 with much success and had my mind set on it for quiet some time. I kept my options open and the DP02 seemed to be the most comparable system. Despite some reviews stating the DP02 did not allow you to hear the effects while recording, I decided on it due to the on-board high, low, and reverb adjustment options. (I did not want to transfer to a computer for mastering) I was going to add an effects processor and pre-amp for the mic, but found all effects do play through recording.



The system has a lot of built in guitar (acoustic and electric), drum, bass, and vocal effects. It took me only a few hours to record several tracks, master them, and burn them to disk. Only being able to record to 2 tracks at once is a small drawback, but if you are doing all of your own recording shouldn't be a problem.



READ THE MANUAL!

Although it is not the easiest to follow page to page, if you know how to find what your looking for it's in the manual. For those of you that want to sit down, push record, and be on your way, you may want to look for a simpler system. Once you get it down, the DP02 is quite easy to use, but not something you can just turn on and go without some instruction. The trickiest part would would be mastering, but it is by no means difficult if you follow the directions.



All around this is a great system for a home studio and possibly more.



P.S. Thanks to Amazon for having the lowest price, and quick delivery.





Just a quick update. May 29, 2010. I have put many hours onto this Portastudio and can say it has absolutely been worth it. The volume on the final track can be a little tricky, but nothing some time and patience cannot overcome. It has not given me any trouble and has never locked up as some people have said. Great piece of equipment for a very fair price.


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