Portable digital recorders could be used in a lot of different ways. It is one of those devices which you buy once and use for years. In this post, we will compare two professional portable digital recorders, the TASCAM DR-40 and the TSCAM DR-05.
TASCAM DR-40
– Weighs 1 pound
– Handheld 4 track Recorder
– Powered by 3 AA batteries
– Built in stereo mics, adjustable to AB or XY position
TASCAM DR-05
– Weighs 2 pounds
– Handheld portable recorder
– Powered by 2 AA batteries
– Built in stereo mics, sensitive up to 125dB SPL
TASCAM DR-40 vs. TASCAM DR-05
TASCAM’s DR-40 and DR-05 are two recorders which enable high quality recording in an easy to operate device. Having microSD and microSDHC as the storage option, they can handle up to 32GB of memory cards. The recording options will cover every imaginable recording scenario of the users.
Recording Options
TASCAM DR-40 provides you with three different options for recording, which are- Dual, 4CH and Overdub. There are LED lights for each of these modes, so that you can see which mode is currently selected. You can record sounds at 96kHz/24 bit on up to four channels. Both stereo and mono recording are included in the DR-40.
On the other hand, the TASCAM DR-05 makes premium quality recording very easy for you. Both of these models support various formats including WAV, MP3 at various bitrates and Broadcast WAV for recording audio. Both models are very straightforward in their actions. Both feature the famous two-button record and fast setting change menu.
Microphones
While the DR-40 sports a pair of cardioid condenser microphones, the DR-05 is provided with a pair of omnidirectional condenser microphones. These microphones are perfectly optimized for ambient recording. There is also a 1/8 mic input for recording from line-level sources or adding personal microphones.
Like most TASCAM products, both these models feature looping sections of playlists and slowing the track down without altering the pitch. The built-in speaker will allow you to check recordings without using headphone. The Level Align feature of DR-05 will smoothen the level jumps automatically. As a result, you will face less difficulty in monitoring your un-mastered tracks. You can also add tripod stand mount and chromatic tuner with both of them.
Unique Features
The DR-05 comes with a stereo pick limiter, which saves your recording from accidental distortions from any unexpected sound. Flipping the recorder will save your tracks from sudden jumps. The Auto Level setting will adjust the recording with the sound level of the room. The low cut filter will be very useful for getting rid of wind noise from your recordings.
On the other hand, the Dual Recording feature of the DR-40 records another copy of your recording as a backup track. Therefore, if your original recording gets lost by any means, you can use the backup copy. The 1/4 and XLR input is another interesting feature present in both of these recorders. These inputs accept line inputs or balanced microphone. There are enough gain and phantom power for detailed recording.
Final Thoughts
As both devices have one year limited warranty, you shouldn’t be worried about their durability. However, there are some notable differences between these two devices. While the DR-40 sports some premium features, the DR-05 is clearly targeted at everyday users.
Click Here To Get TASCAM DR-05 Today!
So, if you want a regular recorder with standard features, you can safely choose the DR-05. However, if you intend to use your recorder for studio purposes or any other high-end project, you should go for the DR-40. Its high costing is justified by the premium features it offers.