DA-78HR

Technical Documentation

PRODUCT OVERVIEW

The DTRS format has long been respected as the most reliable format in digital recording, and now the DTRS format is leading the way into high resolution 24 bit recording. The DA-78HR works with 16 bit DTRS machines, using the same DTRS Sync line for sample accurate lock plus the ability to read and write the older 16 bit format. However, the DA-78HR offers the ability to write 8 tracks of 24 bit audio to tape in the HR format, built in SMPTE synchronization, MIDI ports for MTC and MMC, plus a built-in 8 channel digital mixer for internal bounces or monitor mix generation.

• Records 8 tracks of 24 Bit Audio To Hi8 Tapes

• Reads and Writes 16 and 24 Bit DTRS Tapes

• 24 Bit A/D and D/A Converters

• 16 Machine Sample Accurate Lock with DTRS Sync

• >104dB Dynamic Range

• Balanced DB25 & Unbalanced RCA Analog I/O

• 108 Minutes of Record Time on 120 Hi8 Tape

• TDIF Digital I/O & SPDIF Digital I/O

• SMPTE Time Code Generation and Chasing

• Word Sync In/Out/Thru

• Generates MIDI Time Code

• Track Slip from -200 to +7200 Samples

• Responds to MIDI Machine Control

Built-In 8 Channel Digital Mixer

APPLICATIONS

SPECIFICATIONS

The DA-78HR's high audio quality, long record time, rugged reliability, built-in time code capabilities, built-in MIDI capabilities, and affordable price combine into a product that can handle numerous situations.

Personal and Project Studios

Maximum features, minimum hassle. The DA-78HR brings DTRS tape into 24 bit audio, offering the very best sound quality available today. New features like built in MIDI ports and SMPTE synchronization gives you the ability to chase other tape machines (analog or digital), and the ability to work with sequencers and digital consoles. For the ultimate cost effective flexibility without having to locate additional accessories, the DA-78HR is the best digital tape machine for the market.

Live Performance and Recording

In live performance, there is no take 2. Whether you are using the DA-78HR to play some additional backing tracks or recording the performance live, you can count on the DA-78HR to get it right the first time. With 108 minutes of record time on a single tape, you can put a whole live song set on a single tape; no need to stop everything so you can switch tapes.

Audio for Video on a Budget

For anyone trying to make music for television or film, the DTRS format is the de-facto standard format for transfers and many stages of recording. The synchronization features will allow you to chase another audio machine, or a video deck. Again, the 108 minute record time was maintained for the new 24 bit recording mode, allowing 1 hour reels to be stored on a tape, along with reference tones and the independent subcode time code track. More advanced video applications will want a DA-98HR, which adds 9 pin control, blackburst resolve, and built in bit split for higher resolution audio recording.

Specifications:

 

Format:

DTRS and DTRS-HR

Recording Method:

Rotary Head / Helical Scan

Tracking Method:

ATF (Automatic Track Finding)

Maximum Record Time:

108 min (using P6-120 tape)

Time to Play from Stop:

< 2 seconds

Shuttle Speeds:

8x, 4x, 2x, 1x, 0.5x, 0.25x

Varispeed:

±6%

Subcode:

Independent ABS and SMPTE TC

SMPTE Frame Rates:

30fps, 30dfps, 29.97fps, 29.97dfps,

 

25fps, 24fps

Error Correction:

Double-encoded Reed-Solomon code

Frequency Response:

20Hz-20kHz ±0.5dB

Signal to Noise Ratio:

>104dB (HR), >100dB (Standard)

Total Harmonic Distortion:

<0.004% (HR), <0.005% (Standard)

Channel Separation:

>90dB @ 1kHz

Sampling Frequency:

44.1kHz, 48kHz

Recording Resolution:

16 bit, 24 bit

Reference Level:

-16dB (full bit)

Crossfade Time:

10ms to 200ms (10ms increments)

Track Delay:

-200 to +7200 samples

Word Sync Source:

(set in samples or msec)

A/D Converters:

Internal, Word, SPDIF

D/A Converters:

24 bit, 128x oversample (selectable dither)

 

24 bit, 128x oversample

Analog Inputs:

DB25, +4dBu, 20kOhm

 

(8x) RCA, -10dBV, 10kOhm

Analog Outputs:

DB25, +4dBu, 10kOhm

 

(8x) RCA, -10dBV, 250 Ohm

Digital I/O:

TDIF-1 Format, RCA Coaxial SPDIF

Remote/Sync:

DTRS Sync DB15

Time Code In:

RCA, 0.5Vp-p to 10Vp-p, 10kOhm

Time Code Out:

RCA, 2Vp-p, 100kOhm

Word Sync In/Thru:

Auto Terminating BNC, 75 Ohm (TTL)

Word Sync Out:

BNC, 75 Ohm

MIDI I/O

In, Out, Thru

Punch In Port:

1/4" phono (For TASCAM RC-30P)

Dimensions:

482x143x350mm, 19" x 5.6" x 13.8"

Weight:

8.1kg, 17.8 lbs

Power Requirements:

USA/Canada 120VAC, 60Hz

 

UK/Europe 230VAC, 50Hz

 

Australia 240VAC, 50Hz

Power Consumption

34W

Electromagnetic Environment: E4

7733 Telegraph Road • Montebello, CA 90640 • (323) 726-0303 • http://www.tascam.com

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All features and specifications are subject to change without notice. Contact your local TASCAM representative for the latest information.

DA-78HR_TECHDOC.pdf

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Tascam DA-78HR specifications Product Overview, Applications Specifications, Personal and Project Studios

DA-78HR specifications

The Tascam DA-78HR is a professional digital audio tape recorder that has made a significant mark in the world of sound recording since its introduction. Known for its robustness, versatility, and exceptional sound quality, the DA-78HR is particularly appreciated in professional studios and live sound settings.

One of the standout features of the Tascam DA-78HR is its ability to record and playback at high resolution. It supports 24-bit/96 kHz audio, which allows for capturing intricate details in sound that standard resolution formats might miss. This high-resolution recording capability makes it ideal for critical audio applications, such as music production, film scoring, and broadcasting.

The DA-78HR offers an innovative 8-track recording system that enables simultaneous recording on up to eight tracks. This multi-track capability is essential for modern music production, where layering various instruments and vocals is a common practice. Additionally, the DA-78HR features a built-in mixer, facilitating the balancing of different audio levels during the recording process.

Another key characteristic of the DA-78HR is its use of Hi8 tape, which provides durability and a high level of reliability. The use of tape grants an analog warmth and character that many sound engineers cherish, contributing to the overall richness of the recorded audio. The DA-78HR can also be integrated into existing setups with ease, thanks to its comprehensive connectivity options, including AES/EBU digital I/O, analog I/O, and word clock asynchrony for precise synchronizations when working with other digital devices.

The Tascam DA-78HR also boasts user-friendly features such as intuitive operation, allowing professionals to focus on their creativity rather than getting bogged down by complicated setups. The onboard LCD display provides essential information at a glance, which aids in streamlined workflows.

In terms of storage, the DA-78HR excels with the capability to utilize standard Hi8 and Metal tape formats, giving users flexibility in media choice. Furthermore, its ability to batch erase and rewind tapes can significantly enhance production efficiency.

In summary, the Tascam DA-78HR stands out as an exceptional digital audio tape recorder, providing high-resolution recording, a robust multi-track system, diverse connectivity options, and user-friendly operation. Its combination of advanced technology and practical design makes it a valuable instrument for anyone involved in the demanding world of audio recording.