If the selected digital input is interrupted or is incor- rect for any reason, the words DIGITAL IN, shown on the bottom right of the display will blink to alert you of the fact.

From the input monitor mode, pressing and holding the RECORD key and pressing the PLAY key will start recording (the RECORD and PLAY indicators will both light).

From the input monitor mode, pressing and holding the RECORD key and pressing the PAUSE key will put the tape deck into record ready mode (the RECORD and PAUSE indicators will both light).

NOTES

If the tape deck is left in record ready mode for three minutes or longer, it will automati- cally enter the input monitor mode (the head drum will stop spinning).

It is possible to enter input monitor mode with a write-protected cassette inserted, or with no cassette inserted.

It is also possible to enter the record mode directly from the stop mode by pressing and holding the RECORD key and pr\essing the PLAY key. It is also possible to enter the record ready mode directly from the stop mode (RECORD key and PAUSE key).

When the tape deck is in record ready mode, when recording on a tape which has previously been recorded or “formatted” by recording silence, turning the DATA dial [19] allows the selection of a program number other than 01, meaning that this recording will start at the selected number, and subsequent pro- grams will be written with numbers automatically incremented from this selected value.

NOTE

Valid program numbers are from 01 to 99. If the above procedure is used to select a pro- gram number at the high end of the range, and the automatic increment procedure takes the number above 99, the number will “wrap” to 00. The number 00 can cause problems when searching and locating, and this should be remembered when setting program numbers.

2 - Parts of the tape deck

[17] REC MUTE key

Use this key to record a period of silence on the tape. If the tape deck is recording, and this key is pressed, the RECORD indicator will flash, and all input to the tape will be muted. After a number of seconds (defined in the menu RecMut function—see 3.4, "Record mute time"), the tape deck will enter the record ready mode (the record and pause indicators will both be lit).

Pressing and holding the key for a few seconds will mute the input, and will put the tape deck into record ready mode as soon as the key is released.

[18] SHUTTLE wheel

Turn this wheel to move the tape backwards (coun- terclockwise) or forwards (clockwise). Turning the wheel further from the center will make the tape move faster in the appropriate direction.

The tape may be shuttled both forwards and back- wards, from normal speed to twelve times normal speed .

When entering characters for program titles, and editing memory locations, etc., this control acts as a cursor control (counterclockwise to move the cursor to the left, and clockwise to move it to the right).

[19] DATA dial

This dial is used for two major functions.

One is to change the value of data in menus and parameter settings.

It can also be used, however, to select an absolute program number at which playback should start (compare this with the SKIP keys, which are used to select a program number relative to the current number).

While the tape is stopped or paused, and a menu or edit function is not displayed, turn the data dial.

PNO

ABS

0 0H 0 3M 0 8S0 2 > 0 4

The program number following the > sign flashes. Program numbers can be from 01 through 99, and turning the DATA dial past the limit will start at the other end of the list.

Press the PLAY key within five seconds of turning the DATA dial to locate to the start of the program and start playing.

Press the PAUSE key within five seconds of turning the DATA dial to locate to the start of the program and put the tape deck into pause mode.

TASCAM DA-40 13

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Tascam DA-40 owner manual REC Mute key, Shuttle wheel, Data dial

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.