Cascading TWO DM-24s

On channels 1-32 you can program a different MIDI channel and MIDI controller number for the fader, mute key and pan knob. On the master layer you can do this for faders and mutes only. This allows the DM-24 to control other devices or other devices to control the DM-24 via MIDI. Again, this uses the “audio faders.”

There is also an external control page on the DM-24. This is where you can set up separate MIDI fader layers and controller pages. Any combination of fader layers and controller pages can used up to a total of 8.

With the MIDI fader layer, fader 1 is MIDI channel 1, fader 2 is MIDI channel 2, etc. A single controller number is selected for ALL faders. You can have up to 8 MIDI fader layers. Each layer would represent a different MIDI controller number.

With the controller page you have access to 19 of the most common controller numbers. These are accessed using the POD knobs and Data wheel. Each of these controller pages represents one MIDI channel. You can use a total of 8 controller pages which would give you access to 8 different MIDI channels.

Two DM-24s can be cascaded together to act as one large console. This requires a cascade option card in each mixer. Cascading allows the two mixers to share busses 1-8, aux sends 1-6, the solo buss and the stereo buss. Connections to the control room and stereo outputs would be made on the cascade master.

Cascading two DM-24s provides access to 4 internal effects processors (2 in each unit). When the aux sends are cascaded, ANY of the four internal effects processors can be accessed from ANY aux send. The DM-24 represents the state of the art in effects routing for digital mixing consoles.

Mutes and Solos also act as if two cascaded DM-24s are just one big console. PFL, AFL or INPLACE settings are made on the cascade master. INPLACE solo defeats can be assigned to ANY channel on the cascade master and slave. Because busses 1-8 can be shared, 5.1 surround mixing is possible with two cascaded DM-24s. An AES/EBU option card could be added to the cascade master for sending the 5.1 mix digitally to the stem recorder and an analog option card could be added to the cascade slave to send the 5.1 mix to the surround monitoring system. Cascading also works at 96kHz!

When a mix snapshot is stored on the master, a mix snapshot is also stored on the slave simultaneously. The same is true for saving automation mixes. However, when these files need to be cleared from the DM-24 to make room for new mixes, these files would have to be transferred individually from each DM-24 to an external MIDI device for storage.

The stereo buss, control room and studio outputs on the cascade slave can be used independently of the cascade master. This allows many benefits. For instance, the stereo buss on the cascade master could be output dry while a compressor could be inserted on the stereo buss of the cascade slave. With 2 AES/EBU, S/PDIF and balanced analog outputs, up to 6 stereo mixes could be

DM-24 specifications

The Tascam DM-24 is a versatile digital mixer and recorder that has garnered acclaim amongst audio professionals for its robust features and reliable performance. Designed to meet the demands of live sound, studio recording, and post-production, the DM-24 stands out with its comprehensive set of tools and intuitive layout.

One of the DM-24's defining features is its 24-channel configuration. Each channel is equipped with a high-quality microphone preamp, providing up to 48V phantom power, making it ideal for recording a variety of sound sources, from vocals to acoustic instruments. The mixer also includes 8 auxiliary sends per channel, allowing for flexible routing options and the ability to create personalized monitor mixes effortlessly.

The DM-24 incorporates remarkable digital processing capabilities, with 24-bit resolution and sampling rates of up to 96 kHz, ensuring superior audio fidelity. Its built-in digital effects processor offers an array of high-quality effects, such as reverb, delay, and modulation, providing users with plenty of creative possibilities without relying on additional external units.

Connectivity is a key strength of the DM-24. The mixer features comprehensive digital and analog inputs and outputs, including ADAT lightpipe, S/PDIF, and AES/EBU options, facilitating easy integration into various studio setups. Furthermore, the DM-24 supports the use of a Tascam FireWire interface, allowing for direct connection to a computer for seamless audio transfer and recording.

User-friendliness is enhanced by the large, backlit LCD display, which provides clear metering, setting adjustments, and visual feedback on the status of the mix. The mixer includes a well-designed control surface featuring dedicated buttons, rotary encoders, and faders, making adjustments and automation simple and intuitive in both studio and live environments.

In terms of automation, the DM-24 offers advanced features such as snapshot memories, which allow users to store and recall different mix settings easily. This is particularly beneficial for live performances where quick changes may be necessary. The onboard mixer supports MIDI control, enabling integration with various DAWs and external devices for enhanced functionality.

In summary, the Tascam DM-24 stands as a reliable workhorse for audio engineers and musicians alike. Its combination of high-quality preamps, digital processing capabilities, flexible connectivity, and user-friendly interface make it a powerful tool for both studio recording and live sound applications. With its array of features and dependable performance, the DM-24 continues to be a valuable asset in the world of audio production.