How to use CF cards and projects

The DM-3200 stores library settings, automation data, etc. to- gether in projects, which are stored on a CF card, allowing the mix data for recording sessions to be transported easily between different locations.

Use any CF card (Type I or Type II). A card of at least 32MB capac- ity, such as the one supplied with the DM-3200, is recommended.

The CF card must be formatted be- fore use with the DM-3200 (note that the supplied card is already formatted):

Press the LIBRARY key, and then press the POD 1 key, and turn the POD 1 encoder below the display so that the UTILITY option in the pop-up menu is highlighted.

Press ENTER for the UTIL- ITY screen.

Use the cursor keys to move the cursor to the on- scren CF UTIL button. Press

ENTER.

Use the cursor keys to move the cursor to the on-screen FORMAT button, and press ENTER.

A popup message appears. Press ENTER to continue. Another popup message appears, warning you that all data will be erased. Press ENTER to format the card.

While the card is being formatted, a message brieﬂy appears. Do not remove the card or turn off power while formatting is going on. The word Completed appears on the display when formatting is complete on the display.

TASCAM DM-3200 Quick Reference – Page 2

Making a new project

When the card is formatted, move the cursor to the on-screen MANAGE PROJECTS button, and press ENTER.

Note here is already an “invisible” project in the DM-3200 memory which has not been saved.

Press the POD 1 switch (NEW PROJECT):

Use the cursor keys and wheel to set the sampling frequency and surround mode. Use ENTER to conﬁrm these entries as you make them.

Move the cursor to the on-screen NEW PROJECT CREATE button and press ENTER. The screen changes to show the project naming utility:

Use the cursor keys to move around the NAME and MEMO ﬁelds. Use the wheel to select a character from the list, and the ENTER key to enter the selected character at the cursor.

Use the special INSERT and DELETE labels as if they are characters (highlight and ENTER).

If there are projects already on the card, use the POD 4 en- coder to select a project . The dNAME and dMEMO labels copy over the selected project name and note as templates.

When the name and note are complete, press the POD 2 switch (CREATE) to create the new project.

✒See Section 2, “Basic operational concepts” of the Own- erʼs Manual.

TASCAM DM-3200 Quick Reference – Page 3

Important note about the CF card

The DM-3200 does not automatically write to the CF card every time a change is made to the project. This is to avoid unnecessary stressing of the card, which can cause premature failure of the card.

Accordingly, when shutting down the DM-3200, to write the data currently in memory to the current project, press and hold the SHIFT and CTRL keys, and press the ALT key.

The display shows a popup, asking if you are sure you want to turn off the DM-3200. Press ENTER to continue.

You then see a message showing that it is safe to turn off the DM-3200 (or you can reboot it using the ALT + STOP + PLAY keys).

You can also write the current data to the currently loaded project on the CF card at any time, from the MANAGE PROJECT screen (ALT + PROJECT key, followed by MANAGE PRJ. (POD switch 2).

The current project is marked with an inverted C by its name.

Note that if the DM-3200 is started without the current data having been saved to card, a popup message reminds you of the fact. You then have the choice of loading the last project with or without the unsaved data.

Changing projects, etc.

Use the POD 4 encoder to scroll through the list of projects on a card. When a project is selected in the list at the right of the screen, use the on-screen buttons under the list to load (LOAD), protect (PROTECT), rename (RENAME) or delete (DELETE) the highlighted project.

✒See Section 2, “Basic operational concepts” of the Ownerʼs Manual.

TASCAM DM-3200 Quick Reference – Page 4

DM-3200 specifications

The Tascam DM-3200 is a versatile digital mixing console renowned for its professional audio capabilities and comprehensive feature set. Launched as a part of Tascam’s acclaimed DM series, this console has become a favorite among recording engineers and musicians for its flexibility and high-quality sound processing.

One of the standout features of the DM-3200 is its ability to handle both analog and digital audio signals seamlessly. With 32 input channels, it provides ample connectivity options that are vital for modern studios. It supports both analog line-level signals and digital inputs via ADAT, AES/EBU, and S/PDIF, which allows for extensive routing and integration with various devices and systems.

The DM-3200 features an 8-bus architecture, which enables users to create complex mixes with ease. Each channel is equipped with a 4-band parametric EQ, offering precise control over the tonal balance of each audio source. The onboard effects processing includes virtual effects such as reverb, delay, and modulation, which enhances the overall sound quality and provides creative options for mixing and mastering.

Another notable aspect of the DM-3200 is its intuitive user interface. The console features an LCD display alongside faders, knobs, and buttons designed for quick and efficient operation. The layout facilitates smooth navigation through menus, making it user-friendly for both novice and experienced engineers.

In terms of recording and playback, the DM-3200 supports 24-bit/96 kHz audio resolution, ensuring high-fidelity sound for both tracking and mixing. This capability makes it suitable for post-production, live sound, and studio work, providing high-quality audio requisite in various applications.

Tascam has integrated advanced automation features into the DM-3200, allowing users to automate fader positions, effects parameters, and more. This feature is particularly beneficial during mixing sessions where precision and repeatability are essential.

Additionally, the DM-3200 is capable of digital multitrack recording and can interface seamlessly with DAWs via FireWire, enhancing its versatility in a hybrid studio environment. Whether you are recording a band, mixing a podcast, or producing a film score, the Tascam DM-3200 stands out as a powerful tool in professional audio production.