Tascam DA-40 Parts of the tape deck, Power and display, Recording mode and source switches, etc

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2 - Parts of the tape deck

NOTES

As well as providing details of the settings made with switches, etc., this section also provides the information necessary for basic operations of the tape deck. Although the operation of the transport keys, etc. will be familiar, there are some additional features of this tape deck, and the operation of these fea- tures may differ slightly from the way in which they are implemented on other units. Please consult 2.3, "Tape controls" for full details of such features and their operation.

The operation of the optional RC-D45 remote control unit is explained in 5, "RC-D45 remote control unit (option)".

The more commonly-used functions of the function keys (below the display) which are labeled in white above the keys are also described in this section. The less commonly- used functions, labeled in blue above the keys, are described in 4, "SHIFT functions".

2.1 Power and display

[1] POWER switch

Push once to turn the power on, and again to turn the power off.

[2]Cassette tray and OPEN/CLOSE button

Always load DAT cassettes in the way illustrated on page 7.

Press the open/close button to open the tray. If a cas- sette is already loaded, it will be unthreaded, and the words Tray Open! will flash on the display. After the tray is fully open, these words will be shown (not flashing).

When the tray is open, and the open/close button is pressed, the words Tray Close will flash on the display. If a tape is correctly inserted in the tray when it is closed, the display will show a counter value.

[3] Display window

The different modes available for display are described more fully below (COUNTER MODE [20] and DISPLAY [23]).

Above the tape counter in the display are two bar- graph peak level meters which show either the level of the input signals, or the level of the signals recorded on tape, depending on the current status of the transport.

Other indicators in the display provide information on the current status of the tape deck and of the tape (e.g. sampling frequency, repeat status, and the vari- ous IDs encountered when a tape is being replayed).

NOTE

In this manual, we use the term “program” to describe part of a recording between two START IDs. This is equivalent to the term “track” on a CD or MD. Since the term “track” is already established with another meaning in analog tape recording technology, the term “program” is used here instead.

2.2Recording mode and source switches, etc.

The following controls affect the recording mode, and the selection of the signal source when making recordings.

[4] RECORD MODE switch

Use the switch to select between LP (long play) and SP (standard play). In standard play mode, the sam- pling frequency is as selected with the FS switch below. In long play mode, the sampling frequency is fixed at 32 kHz. In the long play mode, the tape speed is halved, meaning that a tape labeled as a 90- minute tape will therefore provide 180 minutes of recording time.

NOTES

If you are using a tape that has already been recorded in one mode, and you are making a recording using another mode, we suggest that you record the whole tape in the new mode, with no input signal, before making the audio recording.

Recording in long play mode is only possible from analog sources, or if the digital source has already been recorded at 32 kHz.

No setting is necessary to select the mode for play- back— the tape deck recognizes the mode in which the tape was recorded, and adjusts itself accordingly.

10 TASCAM DA-40

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Contents DA-40 Important Safety Precautions Important for U.K. CustomersImportant Safety Instructions Table of Contents Specifications Introduction to the DA-40 FeaturesInstallation of the tape deck Unpacking and inspectionMaking connections Block Diagram Power connectionsFront and Rear panels Recording mode and source switches, etc Power and displayParts of the tape deck Tape controls Play key REW and F FWD keysStop key Pause keyShuttle wheel REC Mute keyData dial Margin Reset Command keysCounter Mode CharSkip Play Single PlayRear panel Balanced Analog Outputs Auto ID level Menu functionsDrum time head time Auto ID timeDigital output format Repeat modeRecord mute time Copy prohibit14Initializing settings 10End tally signal12Fast forward mode 15Viewing points at which block errors have occurredMenu functions INS/+ and DEL Shift functionsID markers START, SKIP, END, Char and renumbering Manually writing a Start or Skip ID Selecting an ID modeWriting a Start or Skip ID Erasing an END ID Writing an END IDErasing a Start or Skip ID Erasing titlesLocation memories Setting location memoriesEdit key Locating to location memoriesCharacter editing titling Program modeEntering and editing titles Deleting a title Writing the title to tapeChecking a title Copying and pasting a titleOPEN/CLOSE RC-D45 remote control unit optionID Select PositionRepeat Remote control transport keysREC Mute Specifications SpecificationsAudio specifications Physical specificationsDimensional drawing Error messages Serious error messagesIndex a O Auto IDIndex P SpdifDA-40
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DA-40 specifications

The Tascam DA-40 is a professional-grade digital audio tape recorder designed for a variety of audio production applications, including music recording, broadcasting, and post-production. Known for its durability and reliability, the DA-40 has established itself as a popular choice among sound engineers and musicians.

One of the main features of the Tascam DA-40 is its ability to record in both high-quality digital formats and traditional DAT (Digital Audio Tape). It supports sampling rates of 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz, which are industry standards for audio recording. This flexibility allows users to choose the format that best suits their workflow, making it an excellent tool for archiving, mastering, or live recording.

The DA-40 employs advanced digital processing technologies to provide superior sound quality. Its 20-bit digital audio converter ensures that recordings are captured with precision and clarity, preserving the nuances of the source material. Additionally, the DA-40 features a dynamic range of 100 dB, contributing to its reputation for delivering high-fidelity audio.

For ease of operation, the DA-40 is equipped with an intuitive user interface. The front panel includes an alphanumeric display that provides essential information like track status, timecode, and remaining tape length, making it user-friendly even in complex recording situations. The machine also offers multiple transport controls, allowing for precise navigation through recordings during playback or editing.

Another characteristic of the DA-40 is its versatility in connectivity options. It features balanced XLR inputs and outputs, along with unbalanced RCA connections, making it compatible with a wide range of audio equipment. The built-in S/PDIF digital output allows for seamless integration with digital audio workstations and other digital devices, enhancing its usability in modern studio environments.

The Tascam DA-40 is also designed with reliable performance in mind. Its rugged construction ensures that it can withstand the demands of live environments while providing consistent operation. Moreover, the unit supports automatic tape advance and rewind functions, streamlining the workflow for busy professionals.

In conclusion, the Tascam DA-40 is a highly capable digital audio tape recorder that combines advanced recording technology with user-friendly features. Its flexibility in audio formats, high-quality sound reproduction, versatile connectivity options, and durable design make it an essential tool for audio professionals aiming to achieve the best results in their production endeavors.