An introduction to the MF-P01
The TASCAM MF-P01 PORTASTUDIO allows you to perform multitrack recordings which are not possible with an ordinary stereo cassette recorder.
Multitrack recording - a brief introduction
This section gives you a brief introduction to some of the terms and techniques used in recording. If you are unfamiliar with these terms, you may find it useful to read through this section so that you understand the rest of the manual, which uses the terms explained here.
Multitrack recorders
The MF-P01 allows you to record up to 4 tracks on Type II (chrome) cassette tapes. It accepts an input and feeds it into a recorder which can record tracks independently of each other, and builds up the song by recording new tracks while listening to what has been recorded before ("overdubbing").
Ordinary cassetteMF-P01
The illustration below shows you how tracks are arranged on an ordinary stereo cassette tape, as well as on the MF-P01.
Notice that the stereo cassette arrangement allows you to use both sides of the cassette, by playing the tape in the other direction. The MF-P01, 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 MF-P01. This allows the MF-P01 to play back normal cassette tapes using tracks 1 and 2.
Mixing down
When you come to make the final version (on MD, cassette, etc.), you can adjust the level (volume) and the stereo position (panning) of each track.
The technique of converting a multitrack recording to a stereo recording is called "mixing down" to a "stereo master" recorder. The MF-P01 includes a mixdown section which allows you to mix to a stereo cassette or MD recorder.
Some safety notes and precautions
•Always use the PS-P2 power adaptor supplied with the MF-P01. 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, consult your TASCAM dealer.
•Turn off your MF-P01 and remove the cassette when you are not using the MF-P01. If you will not be using it for an extended period of time, unplug the PS-P2 adaptor.
•When connecting or disconnecting the MF-P01 to or from any other equipment, make sure the power to the MF-P01 and all other equipment is turned off. This will avoid possible damage to equipment.
•Do not keep your MF-P01 in a very hot place. Remember that in sunny weather, the inside of a parked car heats up very quickly. Avoid leaving your MF-P01 in such a place.
•Do not spill liquid onto your MF-P01. Avoid eating, drinking and smoking near it (smoke particles are bad for audio equipment). If any liquid or any objects such as paperclips, guitar picks, etc. fall inside the MF-P01, do not try to operate it. Return it to a TASCAM service center for repair.
•If the case of the MF-P01 becomes dirty, clean it only with a damp (not wet) cloth, moistened with a little detergent. Do not use solvents or thinners, etc. to clean the MF-P01, as these will damage the surface.
•There are no parts inside the MF-P01 that you can repair by yourself. Do not open the MF-P01 case or try to make any repairs. Return it to a TASCAM service center for repair.
Tape cassettes
•Since the MF-P01 uses the whole width of a cassette tape, you can use only one side of a cassette for playing and recording. You should try to use either side A or side B for all cassettes, to avoid confusion when changing tapes.
•Only use Type II (chrome or high position) cassettes with the MF-P01.
•Remember that because you are only using one side of the cassette, the marked length of the tape will be halved (that is, a C60 tape will run for 30 minutes, a C40 for 20 minutes, etc.).
•Always store cassettes in a safe place (away from the magnetic fields produced by speakers, television sets, computer monitors, etc.).
