Table of Contents

1 - Introduction to the DA-40

1.1

Features

6

1.2

Unpacking and inspection

6

1.3

Installation of the tape deck

6

1.4

About DAT cassettes

6

1.4.1 Head cleaning

7

1.5

Making connections

7

1.5.1 Making analog connections

7

1.5.2 Digital formats

7

1.5.3 Making digital audio connections ...

7

1.5.4 Making control connections

7

1.5.5 Power connections

8

1.6

Block Diagram

8

1.6Front and Rear panels 2 - Parts of the tape deck

2.1 Power and display

10

[1] POWER switch

10

[2] Cassette tray and OPEN/CLOSE button10

[3] Display window

10

2.2 Recording mode and source

 

switches, etc

10

[4] RECORD MODE switch

10

[5] Fs switch

11

[6] INPUT selector switch

11

[7] DIGITAL INPUT selector switch

11

[8] ANALOG INPUT selector switch

11

[9] INPUT level controls

11

[10]

PHONES control and jack

11

2.3 Tape controls

11

[11]

SKIP keys

11

[12] REW and F FWD keys

12

[13] STOP key

12

[14]

PLAY key

12

[15] PAUSE key

12

[16] RECORD key

12

[17] REC MUTE key

13

[18] SHUTTLE wheel

13

[19]

DATA dial

13

2.4 Command keys

14

[20] COUNTER MODE

14

[21] CHAR

14

[22] MARGIN RESET

14

[23]

DISPLAY

14

[24] SKIP PLAY

15

[25] AUTO ID

15

[26] ENTER

15

[27] MENU

15

[28]

LOC 1

15

[29]

LOC 2

15

[30] SINGLE PLAY

15

[31]

SHIFT

16

2.5 Rear panel

16

[32]DIGITAL (AES/EBU) INPUT/OUTPUT 16

[33]DIGITAL (COAXIAL) INPUT/OUTPUT 16

[34] CONTROL I/O

16

[35] REMOTE IN

16

[36] Power cord

16

[37] (BALANCED) ANALOG INPUTS

16

[38] (UNBALANCED) ANALOG INPUTS....

16

[39] (UNBALANCED) ANALOG OUTPUTS 16

[40] (BALANCED) ANALOG OUTPUTS

17

3 - Menu functions

 

3.1

Drum time (head time)

18

3.2

Auto ID level

18

3.3

Auto ID time

18

3.4

Record mute time

19

3.5

Digital output format

19

3.6

Copy prohibit

19

3.7

End ID

19

3.8 Repeat mode

19

3.9

Pre-roll time

19

3.10 End tally signal

20

3.11 Auto rewind

20

3.12 Fast forward mode

20

3.13 Parameter save

20

3.14 Initializing settings

20

3.15 Viewing points at which block errors

have occurred

20

4 - SHIFT functions

 

4.1 REPEAT

22

4.2 CHECK

22

4.3

INS/+ and DEL/-

22

4.4 ID markers (START, SKIP, END, CHAR

and renumbering)

22

4.4.1 Selecting an ID mode

23

4.4.2 Manually writing a START or

 

 

SKIP ID (i)

23

4.4.3 Writing a START or SKIP ID (ii)

23

4.4.4 Writing an END ID

24

4.4.5 Erasing a START or SKIP ID

24

4.4.6 Erasing an END ID

24

4.4.7 Erasing titles

24

4.4.8 Renumbering START IDs

24

4.5

The EDIT key

25

4.6

Location memories

25

4.6.1 Locating to location memories

25

4.6.2 Setting location memories

25

4.6.3 Editing location memories

25

4.7 Program mode

26

4.8

Character editing (titling)

26

4.8.1 Entering and editing titles

26

4.8.2 Writing the title to tape

27

4.8.3 Checking a title

27

4.8.4 Deleting a title

27

4.8.5 Copying and pasting a title

27

5 - RC-D45 remote control unit (option)

[41] OPEN/CLOSE

28

[42] CAPS

28

[43] CHECK

28

[44] POSITION

28

[45] ID SELECT

28

4 TASCAM DA-40

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Tascam DA-40 owner manual Table of Contents

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.