Tascam PORTA02 owner manual Some safety notes and precautions, Mixing down

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1 An introduction to the Porta02

and on A/V cue-equipped cassette record- ers.

L

4

CUE

R

3

 

R

2

R

L

1

L

IEC (Philips) ste-

TASCAM 4Tr 4Ch

TASCAM 4Tr 3Ch

reo cassette

(Porta02 format)

(A/V cue format)

Notice that the stereo cassette arrange- ment allows you to use both sides of the cassette, by playing the tape in the other direction. The Porta02, however, uses the whole width of the tape. Notice also that

one pair of L and R tracks on the stereo cassette take up the same positions as tracks 1 and 2 on the Porta02. This can be important for your recording projects, as we will see later on.

1.1.2 Mixing down

Another advantage of multitrack record- ing is that when you come to make the final version (on CD, cassette, etc.), you can adjust the level (volume) of each track, so that the piece sounds the way you want.

As well as adjusting the track levels, you can also adjust the position of each track with regard to the left and right speakers. This is called “panning”, and the controls used to do this are called “panpots”. By

using the panpots, you can make the tracks appear to come from the left or the right speakers or anywhere in the middle.

The technique of converting a multitrack recording to a stereo recording is called “mixing down” to a “stereo master” or “mastering” recorder. The Porta02 includes a mixdown section which allows you to mix to a stereo cassette or MD recorder.

1.2Some safety notes and precautions

Always use the PS-P2 power adaptor supplied with the Porta02. If you use any other adaptor, there is a risk of damage, or even fire. Make sure that the input voltage marked on the PS-P2 adaptor matches the power supply you are using. If you are in any doubt, con- sult your TASCAM dealer.

Turn off your Porta02 and remove the cassette when you are not using the Porta02. If you will not be using it for an extended period of time, unplug the PS-P2 adaptor.

When connecting or disconnecting the Porta02 to or from any other equip- ment, make sure the power to the Porta02 and all other equipment is turned off. This will avoid possible damage to equipment.

Do not keep your Porta02 in a very hot place. Remember that in sunny weather, the inside of a parked car heats up very quickly. Avoid leaving your Porta02 in such a place.

Do not spill liquid onto your Porta02. Avoid eating, drinking and smoking near it (smoke particles are bad for

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Contents 9101411800 Table of Contents Important Safety Instructions Multitrack recording a brief introduction An introduction to the Porta02An introduction to the Porta02 Multitrack recordersMixing down Some safety notes and precautionsPlaying back stereo cassettes Tape cassettesRecord-protecting cassettes Cleaning the pinch roller An introduction to the Porta02 Cleaning the headsParts of the Porta02 Connecting the Porta02What you need to make recordings Parts of the Porta02Parts of the Porta02 Mono switch Parts of the Porta02 Power in and switch Phones jackMIC/LINE Trim 1Tape counter and reset button Power indicatorREC Function switches Output Level controlsCassette compartment Cover Record indicatorTransport controls Making your first recording Setting upGetting ready Making your first recordingSet both Trim controls to the Line position Setting the levelRecording the first track Set the REC Function switch of Input 1 toRecording the next track Recording the stereo backing Mixdown Making your first recording Recording techniques Hints and advanced tipsHints and advanced tips Recording electric guitarsHints and advanced tips Metering When you’re not recordingRecording more than four tracks Recording more than 4 tracksTroubleshooting TroubleshootingSpecifications SpecificationsTeac Corporation