Tascam is refreshing its well known DR portable recorders series with a new DR-X series which consists of three affordable recorders: DR-05X, DR-07X, and the DR-40X. Although there is not much difference between the new series and the old one, there are some advantages to the DR-X line.

A dedicated audio recorder for filmmakers

The main advantage of using a portable recorder is the clean high-quality sound that it produces. In spite of the extra efforts needed to synch the sound in post, there is some methodology and discipline of getting quality sounds captured by a dedicated recorder.

The portability of that kind of recorders like Tascam (and its equals like Zoom which are also great) allows the privilege of being a production friendly. Those recorders are mobile, light and can be attached straight to the camera rig.

Bright white backlit display

The major strength of the DR-X is the bright white backlit display that’s easy to see even in the brightest sunlight. This is a significant improvement over the older series (DR) which is hard to read outdoors. Also, the DR-X Series’ Auto-Recording function can be set to begin recording when a sound is detected, and its Pre-Recording function delivers fail-safe recordings with up to 2 seconds of pre-record time.

The portability of that kind of recorders like Tascam (and its equals like Zoom which are also great) allows the privilege of being a production friendly. Those recorders are mobile, light and can be attached straight to the camera rig.

Tascam DR-05X – the cheapest in the group

The Tascam DR-05X is the cheapest one in the group. It features a pair of high-quality omnidirectional stereo microphones that can be used to capture audio for voice recordings, dictations, meetings, and music recording applications.

Product Highlights

For Voice, Music, and Lecture Recording

Stereo Omnidirectional Condenser Mics

2-In/2-Out USB Audio Interface

Overwrite Function for Punch-Ins

Dictation Mode with Speed Control and EQ

Multi-Language Menus

Auto-Recording Function

One-Touch User Interface

17.5 Hours with Standard AA Batteries

High-Capacity microSDXC Card Capacity

Price: $120.

Tascam DR-07X – unidirectional stereo microphones

The Tascam DR-07X model is unique by featuring a pair of high-quality unidirectional stereo microphones with variable X/Y or A/B configuration that can be used to capture audio for voice recordings, dictations, meetings, and in live music recording applications. All other features are the same as the DR-05X.

Price: $150.

Tascam DR-40X- an improved version of the DR-40

The DR-40X consists of more features than other models. It owns a versatile A/B-X/Y mic array, the ability to record more tracks, and support for external balanced mic/line sources.

Product Highlights

For DSLRs, Musicians, and Filmmakers

2 x Unidirectional Stereo Condenser Mics

XLR/TRS Combo Inputs

Built-In +48 Phantom Power

4-Channel Multi-Track Recording

2-In/2-Out USB Audio Interface

Overwrite Function for Punch-Ins

Dictation Mode with Speed Control and EQ

One-Touch User Interface

High-Capacity microSDXC Card Capacity

Price: $200.

What are your favorite devices for capturing quality audio? Do you see yourself taking advantage of this kind of portable recorders? Let’s know.