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Gear / Technical Help => Recording Gear => Topic started by: voltronic on February 14, 2017, 07:34:17 AM

Title: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on February 14, 2017, 07:34:17 AM
Tascam DR-70D Product Page (http://tascam.com/product/dr-70d/overview/)
Reference Manual (http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/e_dr-70d_rm_vb.pdf)
Tested Media List (http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20151006.pdf) (using a card from this list is strongly recommended)

DR-70D FAQ (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=172795.0) (includes recommended settings, hardware info, list of known issues, etc.)
Modification Discussion Thread (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=174046.0)

Previous discussion threads:

Part 1 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=170230.0)
Part 2 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=172109.0)
Part 3 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=172830.0)
Part 4 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=173960.0)
Part 5 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=174900.0)
Part 6 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=175623.0)
Part 7 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=177544.0)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on February 14, 2017, 07:28:32 PM
With firmware 1.14 and tested media, this machine is great.

Unfortunately, with such a small list of tested media, approved cards are already becoming unavailable.

B&H and Amazon show the 32GB Panasonic RP-SDUC32GAK as unavailable.

Think about what's happened to the PCM-M10, and stock up on cards. I am going to buy the only 128 that works while I still can.

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on February 14, 2017, 08:57:17 PM
With firmware 1.14 and tested media, this machine is great.

Unfortunately, with such a small list of tested media, approved cards are already becoming unavailable.

B&H and Amazon show the 32GB Panasonic RP-SDUC32GAK as unavailable.

Think about what's happened to the PCM-M10, and stock up on cards. I am going to buy the only 128 that works while I still can.

It looks like the firmware is not getting updated anymore; last update was 8 months ago.  1.14 is solid, but it would have been nice if Tascam could have implemented the usability fixes we've been hoping for.

About cards: Amazon is not very reliable source.  There are countless stories out there of people getting fakes, and the fakes are getting really hard to spot.

The only way you can be sure you're getting legit SD cards are to buy from a vendor that's on the SD card manufacturer's authorized vendor list.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on February 15, 2017, 12:23:47 AM
are there reports of counterfeit cards in amazon's "frustration-free" packaging? I would be pretty frustrated if I got a fake from them!  :-\
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on February 15, 2017, 02:58:26 PM
are there reports of counterfeit cards in amazon's "frustration-free" packaging? I would be pretty frustrated if I got a fake from them!  :-\

Maybe that's the safe way to go, then you know it's actually coming from Amazon.  The reports I've read of fakes may very well have all been third-parties who sold through Amazon.

I also see that Amazon is an authorized dealer for SanDisk, but again be sure you're really buying from them.
https://www.sandisk.com/about/where-to-buy (https://www.sandisk.com/about/where-to-buy)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on February 15, 2017, 03:13:24 PM
I also see that Amazon is an authorized dealer for SanDisk, but again be sure you're really buying from them.
https://www.sandisk.com/about/where-to-buy (https://www.sandisk.com/about/where-to-buy)
thank you! I actually ordered a cosmetically-damaged one that had been previously returned, and it's supposed to arrive tomorrow from "Amazon Warehouse Deals."

I will definitely be skeptical, and make efforts to verify the serial number before I trust that the card is as-labeled!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on February 15, 2017, 04:47:40 PM
I also see that Amazon is an authorized dealer for SanDisk, but again be sure you're really buying from them.
https://www.sandisk.com/about/where-to-buy (https://www.sandisk.com/about/where-to-buy)
thank you! I actually ordered a cosmetically-damaged one that had been previously returned, and it's supposed to arrive tomorrow from "Amazon Warehouse Deals."

I will definitely be skeptical, and make efforts to verify the serial number before I trust that the card is as-labeled!

See, that could be sketchy.  Given its questionable provenance, I would also run it through a capacity test (H2Testw or FakeFlashTest) and also a read/write benchmark (Crystal Disk Mark).  Fake cards are usually lying about one or both of those things.

All of these utilities can be found here:
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=176802.0 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=176802.0)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on February 15, 2017, 08:30:27 PM
See, that could be sketchy.  Given its questionable provenance, I would also run it through a capacity test (H2Testw or FakeFlashTest) and also a read/write benchmark (Crystal Disk Mark).  Fake cards are usually lying about one or both of those things.
Aha!

ANOTHER very good point. Thanks, Volt! We must be thorough!

Quote
Maude: Here's the name and number of a doctor who will look at it for you. You will receive no bill. He's a good man, and thorough.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on February 16, 2017, 03:53:30 PM
The inner package was a sealed envelope with a bar code and an Amazon logo sticker. Inside that was an SD card in a small ziploc bag. The label looks correct and I guess the sticker had some gunk on it that the previous buyer didn't like?

Tests out OK on speed via black magic (write 75gb/s, read 87) , I have not done a brute capacity test (fill it up!) or run the windows utilities yet, but I just started creating a 120GB disk image on it...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: goodcooker on February 17, 2017, 08:08:50 AM

Only 61 hours of record time left on that puppy!

Man, things sure have changed since I was sweating changing out mini discs...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: lsd2525 on February 17, 2017, 08:44:46 AM

Only 61 hours of record time left on that puppy!

Man, things sure have changed since I was sweating changing out mini discs...

QFMFT. On my MZ-R70 you also had to swap in a fresh AA with every mini disk......
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: F.O.Bean on February 17, 2017, 11:37:21 PM
The inner package was a sealed envelope with a bar code and an Amazon logo sticker. Inside that was an SD card in a small ziploc bag. The label looks correct and I guess the sticker had some gunk on it that the previous buyer didn't like?

Tests out OK on speed via black magic (write 75gb/s, read 87) , I have not done a brute capacity test (fill it up!) or run the windows utilities yet, but I just started creating a 120GB disk image on it...

I bought that exact card from Amazon through SanDisk and I got mine in the original packaging and it came it MINT condition! Yours looks a lil beat up to me? But Ive EASILY run battery tests for over 150+ hours on the new 128gb that I just got for XMas, and its been NOTHING BUT 100% RELIABLE! I have ONLY been using my 128 & 64gb SanDisk Extreme Pro SD Cards! I still have a 32gb PNY Card that has worked flawlessly too, but I feel MUCH more comfortable and have more peace of mind since switchimng over to the SanDisk Extreme Pro's!

And FWIW, I would ONLY buy through Amazon and through SanDisk if i were you ;)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on February 18, 2017, 02:54:13 AM
Yours looks a lil beat up to me?
(snip)
And FWIW, I would ONLY buy through Amazon and through SanDisk if i were you ;)
Beat up? Well, the sticker has a smudge that I can barely see in real life, but the flatbed scanner reveals all!

This is through amazon, though it's a returned - stock item that said it was blemished.

I already have an approved Sandisk 16 and a Panasonic 32. This is more for insurance. Seems like a genuine item, but in the name of science, I think I'll email Sandisk customer support with the serial number just to verify it...

¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on February 27, 2017, 07:05:02 PM
Seems like a genuine item, but in the name of science, I think I'll email Sandisk customer support with the serial number just to verify it...
Sandisk has Web Chat. Very handy.

"Evan G.: ... based on the information and pictures submitted for review, we have determined that this is an authentic SanDisk® retail brand product"

And now for the bad news:

Tascam DR70D is shown as a Closeout item at Adorama Camera, the only retailer listed on Tascam's official WHERE TO BUY page! http://tascam.com/product/dr-70d/buy_now/
In fact, that link goes to a bundle which is not available, but the Adorama site still sells the recorder...

https://www.adorama.com/tsdr70d.html


Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on February 27, 2017, 07:53:58 PM
I wouldn't put too much into the fact that Adorama is the only authorized retailer, and they are listing it as a "closeout."  Being that they haven't updated the 70D firmware or tested any new cards in a long time, I imagine no one is paying attention to its web page either.

It very well may be slated to be discontinued, which if nothing else will drive more customers to the DR-701D (IMO overpriced given the competition or even Tascam's own DR-680 mkII).  But I really don't think it's been axed just yet.

A quick search shows the DR-70D currently in stock at:

Amazon
American Musical
B&H
Broadcast Supply
Full Compass
Trew Audio
Markertek
Sam Ash
Zzounds

...but out of stock at:
Sweetwater
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: drewt on February 27, 2017, 08:22:51 PM
Interesting - perhaps Adorama is paring down it's ProSound inventory - there are many items slated as disco'd.
You could very well be correct.

It has been suggested in  other threads that the 701 pre-amps are a bit better quality. That coupled with a good form factor, time code and camera trigger may make the
701 workable. But - it here is an update to the DR70 at the same pricepoint - i would consider buying 2 (1 as a spare) in lieu of the 701.

NAB is end of April, will take a loaner to Europe for the first round...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on February 27, 2017, 08:39:43 PM
Interesting - perhaps Adorama is paring down it's ProSound inventory - there are many items slated as disco'd.
You could very well be correct.

It has been suggested in  other threads that the 701 pre-amps are a bit better quality. That coupled with a good form factor, time code and camera trigger may make the
701 workable. But - it here is an update to the DR70 at the same pricepoint - i would consider buying 2 (1 as a spare) in lieu of the 701.

NAB is end of April, will take a loaner to Europe for the first round...

The 701D certainly does have better preamps than the DR-70D - for one thing, the opamps it uses are superior.  But the DR-680 mkII will also have better preamps, and for the same $600 price you get six of them.  I don't know that they are the same preamp circuit, but the critical specs are identical (EIN, distortion, S/N ratio).  There's a local professional location sound recording company I know that uses the 680 for low-track-count sessions.  So this is why I say that unless you need the camera triggering, the DR-680 mkII presents a better value from a pure audio recording standpoint.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: drewt on February 27, 2017, 09:52:40 PM
Hmm, form factor over audio quality... Now hoping there is a newer middle ground model nearing release.

Having a smaller set up makes run and gunshooting easier - especially in "unfriendly" environments.
But shyte audio is a killer...

In a perfect world, i'd just go with a BMC Ursa 4.6 and a Sound Devices recorder. But that set up makes for a larger target profile.

Do you have any idea what the Tascam product release schedule is?

Thank you for you insights - not being a sound guy - they are quite helpful.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: 2manyrocks on February 27, 2017, 11:10:48 PM
If Tascam follows any discernable pattern concerning when they release a new recorder, I haven't figured it out.  I'm also not sure that you can tell when Tascam is discontinuing something based on Adorama placing it on closeout.  B&H isn't showing any closeout on it.

The other thing is the 70d price is hovering around $299.  There was a point when B & H was selling it for under $200 including a copy of Sony SoundForge software. 

I think you should just order based on your expected needs and use.  The 70d can be powered by a cell phone battery.  The 680 is a 12v recorder so the external battery powering options are not as plentiful and inexpensive as the 70d.  The 70d is also much more compact. 
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: drewt on February 28, 2017, 09:10:38 AM
Curious that it jumped 1/3 in price. At $200 it would have been a no brainer.

Thanks for info - my mics for this kit run on either phantom or double AA (Rodes ntg2 & ntg4, senny G3s, upgrading to the AVXs).
It's going to come down to 701 vs 70 price vs quality value analysis...

Ordered the 70d today for a test run....
Now to delve into this thread for operating tips... Grin.



Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: F.O.Bean on March 01, 2017, 05:18:37 AM
My two 70D's have been NOTHING but 100% reliable [*knock on wood*] with my SanDisk Extreme Pro SD Cards! Ive been running battery tests and recording on my 128gb SanDisk card for over 200 hours the past few weeks, and as ALWAYS, the 70D has performed 100% flawlessly ;D
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: lsd2525 on March 01, 2017, 08:57:18 AM
My two 70D's have been NOTHING but 100% reliable [*knock on wood*] with my SanDisk Extreme Pro SD Cards! Ive been running battery tests and recording on my 128gb SanDisk card for over 200 hours the past few weeks, and as ALWAYS, the 70D has performed 100% flawlessly ;D

Ditto. I upgraded to the 1.14 firmware before I ever used it (well over a year ago) and it has preformed flawlessly.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on March 01, 2017, 06:50:20 PM
Curious that it jumped 1/3 in price. At $200 it would have been a no brainer.

Thanks for info - my mics for this kit run on either phantom or double AA (Rodes ntg2 & ntg4, senny G3s, upgrading to the AVXs).
It's going to come down to 701 vs 70 price vs quality value analysis...

Ordered the 70d today for a test run....
Now to delve into this thread for operating tips... Grin.

$299 was pretty much the regular street price until some vendors would put it on big discounts every few months.

For operating tips, you can find a quick reference in the DR-70D FAQ (link in my signature).  The manual is not very well written, and I recently revised the menu reference you'll find in that thread because I was having trouble remembering what does what in the menu.

 
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on March 08, 2017, 02:03:25 PM
I'll be taking my new 70d on it's maiden voyage tomorrow night.  Playing around with it today trying to drain the usb battery.  key word trying ;)  I have it sitting on my desk recording with the internal mics.  anyway when I came back up from lunch it was turned off.  Battery still has over 50% and there are internal AA as backup.  I turned it back on and saw the card was full.  So I'm guessing the card filled up so it went idle and then turned itself off after 30 minutes.  does this sound right?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: hoppedup on March 08, 2017, 02:44:51 PM
I'll be taking my new 70d on it's maiden voyage tomorrow night.  Playing around with it today trying to drain the usb battery.  key word trying ;)  I have it sitting on my desk recording with the internal mics.  anyway when I came back up from lunch it was turned off.  Battery still has over 50% and there are internal AA as backup.  I turned it back on and saw the card was full.  So I'm guessing the card filled up so it went idle and then turned itself off after 30 minutes.  does this sound right?

I never ran a card full, so I can't answer that. But if there is anything wrong with the unit it can be returned for a full refund.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: gormenghast on March 08, 2017, 02:56:37 PM
Curious that it jumped 1/3 in price. At $200 it would have been a no brainer.

Thanks for info - my mics for this kit run on either phantom or double AA (Rodes ntg2 & ntg4, senny G3s, upgrading to the AVXs).
It's going to come down to 701 vs 70 price vs quality value analysis...

Ordered the 70d today for a test run....
Now to delve into this thread for operating tips... Grin.

$299 was pretty much the regular street price until some vendors would put it on big discounts every few months.

For operating tips, you can find a quick reference in the DR-70D FAQ (link in my signature).  The manual is not very well written, and I recently revised the menu reference you'll find in that thread because I was having trouble remembering what does what in the menu.
[/qtill uote]

I've read some of the different threads and through the FAQ, but still unsure about the pan feature.  I doubt I'll run four channel so for two channels in XLR or stereo mini input what its the recommended pan setting? 

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on March 08, 2017, 03:02:28 PM
I'll be taking my new 70d on it's maiden voyage tomorrow night.  Playing around with it today trying to drain the usb battery.  key word trying ;)  I have it sitting on my desk recording with the internal mics.  anyway when I came back up from lunch it was turned off.  Battery still has over 50% and there are internal AA as backup.  I turned it back on and saw the card was full.  So I'm guessing the card filled up so it went idle and then turned itself off after 30 minutes.  does this sound right?

I never ran a card full, so I can't answer that. But if there is anything wrong with the unit it can be returned for a full refund.

Thanks but I'm pretty sure that's what happened.  It makes sense anyway ;)  Just trying to confirm!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on March 08, 2017, 03:26:25 PM
So I'm guessing the card filled up so it went idle and then turned itself off after 30 minutes.  does this sound right?
yes, the 30-minute idle shutdown will save the AA's, in case your battery pack dies too.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on March 08, 2017, 03:36:11 PM
Under BASIC > PAN
Left 12 = left channel only, Right 12 = right channel only.

Default should be input channels 1 & 3 go to Left 12, inputs 2 & 4 would be Right 12

Zero is in the center (mono)


I've read some of the different threads and through the FAQ, but still unsure about the pan feature.  I doubt I'll run four channel so for two channels in XLR or stereo mini input what its the recommended pan setting?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on March 09, 2017, 04:35:17 PM
if one were trying to get all levels from an external pre where would you start the level knobs on the 70d?  all the way down without turning it off?

For sbd feeds where's a good place to start?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on March 09, 2017, 09:13:57 PM
Under BASIC > PAN
Left 12 = left channel only, Right 12 = right channel only.

Default should be input channels 1 & 3 go to Left 12, inputs 2 & 4 would be Right 12

Zero is in the center (mono)


I've read some of the different threads and through the FAQ, but still unsure about the pan feature.  I doubt I'll run four channel so for two channels in XLR or stereo mini input what its the recommended pan setting?

...And you can safely ignore the PAN setting, as it has no effect unless you're recording in 2MIX mode (a 4 > 2 channel downmix, I don't recommend it).
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: flintstone on March 10, 2017, 04:28:51 PM
Check out the DR-70D mic input noise measurements at Avisoft
http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm 

These results put the DR-70D right at the top of the list for quiet mic inputs.
Also amazing that the EIN measured the same for both high and mid-level gain.
Super impressive for a $300 deck.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: lsd2525 on March 10, 2017, 04:49:44 PM
Check out the DR-70D mic input noise measurements at Avisoft
http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm 

These results put the DR-70D right at the top of the list for quiet mic inputs.
Also amazing that the EIN measured the same for both high and mid-level gain.
Super impressive for a $300 deck.

Damn. That's wild.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: jbell on March 10, 2017, 07:08:43 PM
Wow nice specs!! 
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on March 11, 2017, 03:37:14 AM
...And you can safely ignore the PAN setting, as it has no effect unless you're recording in 2MIX mode (a 4 > 2 channel downmix, I don't recommend it).

D'oh!!

 :facepalm:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: gormenghast on March 11, 2017, 09:06:47 AM
...And you can safely ignore the PAN setting, as it has no effect unless you're recording in 2MIX mode (a 4 > 2 channel downmix, I don't recommend it).

D'oh!!

 :facepalm:

Not to a 70d newb.  I don't know what pan is in a recorder.  So, I wouldn't know why I would use it or how to.

Thanks anyway.

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on March 11, 2017, 09:07:52 AM
Check out the DR-70D mic input noise measurements at Avisoft
http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm 

These results put the DR-70D right at the top of the list for quiet mic inputs.
Also amazing that the EIN measured the same for both high and mid-level gain.
Super impressive for a $300 deck.

This almost seems to good to be true, although I've always found the preamps plenty quiet as long as HIGH+ gain is avoided.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: 2manyrocks on March 11, 2017, 12:18:04 PM
The DR100mkiii is further down the list below the 70d and the 680? 
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: noahbickart on March 13, 2017, 12:53:12 PM
Check out the DR-70D mic input noise measurements at Avisoft
http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm 

These results put the DR-70D right at the top of the list for quiet mic inputs.
Also amazing that the EIN measured the same for both high and mid-level gain.
Super impressive for a $300 deck.

This almost seems to good to be true, although I've always found the preamps plenty quiet as long as HIGH+ gain is avoided.

According to this chart, the dr70d should allow for higher resolution than a SD 722.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Life In Rewind on March 13, 2017, 01:10:41 PM
Check out the DR-70D mic input noise measurements at Avisoft
http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm 

These results put the DR-70D right at the top of the list for quiet mic inputs.
Also amazing that the EIN measured the same for both high and mid-level gain.
Super impressive for a $300 deck.

This almost seems to good to be true, although I've always found the preamps plenty quiet as long as HIGH+ gain is avoided.

According to this chart, the dr70d should allow for higher resolution than a SD 722.

Considering there is 10 years between the technology in those devices...not so hard to believe.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: noahbickart on March 13, 2017, 02:43:46 PM
Check out the DR-70D mic input noise measurements at Avisoft
http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm 

These results put the DR-70D right at the top of the list for quiet mic inputs.
Also amazing that the EIN measured the same for both high and mid-level gain.
Super impressive for a $300 deck.

This almost seems to good to be true, although I've always found the preamps plenty quiet as long as HIGH+ gain is avoided.

According to this chart, the dr70d should allow for higher resolution than a SD 722.

Considering there is 10 years between the technology in those devices...not so hard to believe.

Yes, but given the difference in MSRP, it's still interesting to note.

I wonder if SD will produce something to replace the 7XX series, and compete with the zoom.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: dogmusic on March 13, 2017, 03:42:04 PM
The DR100mkiii is further down the list below the 70d and the 680?

Yes, I find that strange too, since Tascam claims to have greatly improved the DR100mk3's preamps.

And where does this put the DR-701D?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on March 13, 2017, 05:22:22 PM
Not to a 70d newb.  I don't know what pan is in a recorder.  So, I wouldn't know why I would use it or how to.

Thanks anyway.

In general, the Pan feature assigns individual channels to either left, right, or somewhere in between.

According to what Volt posted, unless you're mixing your inputs for a real-time output using the 2Mix feature, any Pan setting will be ignored by the unit. If you DO want to mix using 2Mix, Left 12 is full left with no right channel output, and Right 12 is full right, with no left channel output.

As Volt suggests, when recording direct to tracks (NOT using the 2Mix feature) Input channels 1&3 will automatically be assigned to pure left, and channels 2&4 will be assigned pure right.

Does this make sense?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on March 13, 2017, 08:29:25 PM
Check out the DR-70D mic input noise measurements at Avisoft
http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm 

These results put the DR-70D right at the top of the list for quiet mic inputs.
Also amazing that the EIN measured the same for both high and mid-level gain.
Super impressive for a $300 deck.

This almost seems to good to be true, although I've always found the preamps plenty quiet as long as HIGH+ gain is avoided.

According to this chart, the dr70d should allow for higher resolution than a SD 722.

Considering there is 10 years between the technology in those devices...not so hard to believe.

Yes, but given the difference in MSRP, it's still interesting to note.

I wonder if SD will produce something to replace the 7XX series, and compete with the zoom.

Not to mention the difference in quality of the actual components used in the units which has something to do with that price difference, 10 years technology difference notwithstanding.

I'm a regular user of the 70D, but have a hard time believing these test results unless they are verified by others.

Here's food for thought: Tascam lists the EIN as "-120 dB or less" in their own specifications (http://tascam.com/product/dr-70d/specifications/), yet Avisoft shows -129 dB which is not a tiny difference.  Wouldn't you expect the manufacturer have the best-case-scenario when listing specs?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Life In Rewind on March 13, 2017, 08:41:53 PM
Check out the DR-70D mic input noise measurements at Avisoft
http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm 

These results put the DR-70D right at the top of the list for quiet mic inputs.
Also amazing that the EIN measured the same for both high and mid-level gain.
Super impressive for a $300 deck.

This almost seems to good to be true, although I've always found the preamps plenty quiet as long as HIGH+ gain is avoided.

According to this chart, the dr70d should allow for higher resolution than a SD 722.

Considering there is 10 years between the technology in those devices...not so hard to believe.

Yes, but given the difference in MSRP, it's still interesting to note.

I wonder if SD will produce something to replace the 7XX series, and compete with the zoom.

Not to mention the difference in quality of the actual components used in the units which has something to do with that price difference, 10 years technology difference notwithstanding.

I'm a regular user of the 70D, but have a hard time believing these test results unless they are verified by others.

Here's food for thought: Tascam lists the EIN as "-120 dB or less" in their own specifications (http://tascam.com/product/dr-70d/specifications/), yet Avisoft shows -129 dB which is not a tiny difference.  Wouldn't you expect the manufacturer have the best-case-scenario when listing specs?

Volt - you should send them your modd'ed DR-70D...it should blow them all away!!!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on March 14, 2017, 04:56:01 AM
^  ;D

The thing is, as I've said before many times in the modification discussion, that the mod didn't affect the noise level at all; it just improved the sound quality in other ways (treble clarity / extension, transients).  Jim Williams, who designed the mod I have, stated that noise performance of the 70D is a function of the tiny and cheap input transistors it uses.

Given my experience with my modded deck it should be noted that EIN is not the only thing to consider when evaluating the sound quality of a unit.  I think the DR-70D has rather quiet preamps, especially for its price.  But I find it very hard to believe that it performs better than a SD 722.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Idle Wind on March 14, 2017, 04:21:38 PM
Checking in.  Just got a 70D from raoulduke in the yard sale.  Very cool little machine.  Probably run it this weekend for Wilco at the Beacon.  I can run my FR2-LE or my SD MP-2/PCM-M-10 with my eyes closed, but this little thing is a little more complicated.  I've read through most of these posts (8 parts - really?) and the manual, etc, still have a couple questions, if you'll indulge me....

Firmware is 1.14, I'm waiting on an approved card, I'll have a 5V power bank, plus AA batteries in the unit (seamless power swap if the powerbank dies, right? nice feature).  I'll be running 4 mics (AKG ck63s and ck2s) 17th row center on the floor.  I figure if the gain is MID I'll start at noon on the gain knobs....

So, I arm all 4 channels, set preamp gain on MID, set the input to XLR/TRS, set the input gain to MIC+PHANTOM, set Phantom to 48V.......limiter, lowcut, delay and phase are all off, file format BWAV 24/48, battery on NIMH...man, a lotta settings scattered throughout a bunch of different menus...... :-\

One thing I don't understand - is File Type - mono or stereo?   I'm guessing stereo will give me two stereo files - 1/2 and 3/4 right?  (I'll want to do the mix down post in Reaper).

The line out, I'm stuck with the mixdown of four channels (same as 2MIX?) based on the levels set, right?

I'm thinking of running the ck63's through the MP2, and feeding the DR70 a line in on 1/2 from the tape out, and running an M-10 safety from the MP2 XLR outs, which I know are hot, but I think the M-10 line in can handle them (and the DR70 can't) is that right?

I'll probably man up and skip the MP2 and just run all 4 channels through the 70D.  We'll see.

Advice, tips and anecdotes welcome.....
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: lsd2525 on March 14, 2017, 04:32:21 PM
Checking in.  Just got a 70D from raoulduke in the yard sale.  Very cool little machine.  Probably run it this weekend for Wilco at the Beacon.  I can run my FR2-LE or my SD MP-2/PCM-M-10 with my eyes closed, but this little thing is a little more complicated.  I've read through most of these posts (8 parts - really?) and the manual, etc, still have a couple questions, if you'll indulge me....

Firmware is 1.14, I'm waiting on an approved card, I'll have a 5V power bank, plus AA batteries in the unit (seamless power swap if the powerbank dies, right? nice feature).  I'll be running 4 mics (AKG ck63s and ck2s) 17th row center on the floor.  I figure if the gain is MID I'll start at noon on the gain knobs....

So, I arm all 4 channels, set preamp gain on MID, set the input to XLR/TRS, set the input gain to MIC+PHANTOM, set Phantom to 48V.......limiter, lowcut, delay and phase are all off, file format BWAV 24/48, battery on NIMH...man, a lotta settings scattered throughout a bunch of different menus...... :-\

One thing I don't understand - is File Type - mono or stereo?   I'm guessing stereo will give me two stereo files - 1/2 and 3/4 right?  (I'll want to do the mix down post in Reaper).

The line out, I'm stuck with the mixdown of four channels (same as 2MIX?) based on the levels set, right?

I'm thinking of running the ck63's through the MP2, and feeding the DR70 a line in on 1/2 from the tape out, and running an M-10 safety from the MP2 XLR outs, which I know are hot, but I think the M-10 line in can handle them (and the DR70 can't) is that right?

I'll probably man up and skip the MP2 and just run all 4 channels through the 70D.  We'll see.

Advice, tips and anecdotes welcome.....

Skip the MP2. You can have all that stuff set before you go to the show. At the show, just turn it on, hit the menu button 4 times to confirm you want all 4 inputs to have phantom, then hit record when you're ready to go. easy peasy.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Idle Wind on March 14, 2017, 04:41:29 PM
So I use STEREO, not MONO, and I get two stereo tracks which I can later mix down, right?

and the Mic Input knobs don't work when the HOLD switch is on - right?  (that kinda sucks, but I can live with it).
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Life In Rewind on March 14, 2017, 05:01:25 PM
So I use STEREO, not MONO, and I get two stereo tracks which I can later mix down, right?

and the Mic Input knobs don't work when the HOLD switch is on - right?  (that kinda sucks, but I can live with it).

The gotcha on the HOLD is that if you move the level knob - the level change will be abruptly applied when you un-HOLD...I'd avoid HOLD altogether.

For the most part STEREO is fine - unless you are doing a 3 channel or other non-symmetrical setup - then MONO might make more sense.

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: noahbickart on March 15, 2017, 06:31:53 AM
I'd use LOW not MID for a rock show.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on March 15, 2017, 06:48:14 PM
I'd use LOW not MID for a rock show.

YES!

LOW GAIN!!!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on March 15, 2017, 09:05:18 PM
I'd use LOW not MID for a rock show.

Agreed.  I don't go past MID for classical recording, and find myself using LOW for a lot of things with orchestra or loud percussion.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 02, 2017, 09:56:04 AM
I'm ready to pull the trigger on one of these and can get it for $224.99 new. Seems like a great deal.
Any thoughts on that price point from you folks?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: jbell on April 02, 2017, 10:00:17 AM
There were a few in the YS you may want to see if one hasn't sold!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on April 02, 2017, 10:37:14 AM
I got a mint used one for much less than that!  Like Jbell said look in the yard sale.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 03, 2017, 07:47:55 AM
I'm ready to pull the trigger on one of these and can get it for $224.99 new. Seems like a great deal.
Any thoughts on that price point from you folks?
There doesn't appear to be anything available in the Yard Sale as of now, and I'd prefer new with warranty etc.
Thanks for the suggestions.
So is $224.99 a fair price for a new unit in the box?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: jbell on April 03, 2017, 11:04:17 AM
$225 is a fair price.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: lsd2525 on April 03, 2017, 12:23:14 PM
$225 is a fair price.

QFT
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: noahbickart on April 03, 2017, 04:57:07 PM
When i got mine, Chris at Busman modded it for me, you might want to reach out to him, and have it shipped right to him...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 05, 2017, 09:00:40 PM
Well, I'm now a (hopefully) proud owner of this deck. Plan to give it a four channel run tomorrow night with a couple local/regional jam bands.
Wish me luck.  ;D
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on April 05, 2017, 09:35:47 PM
make sure to hit record!  seriously!  one thing I love about this deck is if it's on you can see levels as if it was in record/pause.  one thing I hate about this deck is if it's on you can see levels as if it was in record/pause! 
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on April 05, 2017, 09:43:58 PM
Well, I'm now a (hopefully) proud owner of this deck. Plan to give it a four channel run tomorrow night with a couple local/regional jam bands.
Wish me luck.  ;D

Hope it works out well.  :coolguy:

For a while I was thinking that I was going to upgrade from the DR-70D to something else, but I think I'm sticking with it. I haven't yet run into a situation where I really need more than 4 channels, and despite the usability annoyances the quality of recordings I'm getting is consistently very good.  I'll be saving my money towards more mics in the future.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on April 05, 2017, 09:48:01 PM
make sure to hit record!  seriously!  one thing I love about this deck is if it's on you can see levels as if it was in record/pause.  one thing I hate about this deck is if it's on you can see levels as if it was in record/pause!

Yes, it's different from other decks that you put into "REC/PAUSE" mode first and then "release" the transport to start recording like you would on a tape deck.  But the easy way to tell is that Red LED on = Recording.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 05, 2017, 10:24:37 PM
make sure to hit record!  seriously!  one thing I love about this deck is if it's on you can see levels as if it was in record/pause.  one thing I hate about this deck is if it's on you can see levels as if it was in record/pause!
Yes, it's different from other decks that you put into "REC/PAUSE" mode first and then "release" the transport to start recording like you would on a tape deck.  But the easy way to tell is that Red LED on = Recording.
You guys can say that again...I had to do a search to see how the darn thing paused.  :facepalm:
I think I'll be ok with it, enough of the features and functionality are similar to the DR-60D which is my regular recorder.

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on April 05, 2017, 10:40:32 PM
easy way to tell is that Red LED on = Recording.

that and no time running!  got me the other night!  at least it was the opener I didn't care about.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on April 06, 2017, 06:09:40 AM
easy way to tell is that Red LED on = Recording.

that and no time running!  got me the other night!  at least it was the opener I didn't care about.

?  It definitely shows running time.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on April 06, 2017, 07:12:31 AM
I meant no run time if it's not recording.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 06, 2017, 08:18:35 AM
I'm looking for something that'll power the 70-D and want to get some feedback on this adapter which seems ok to me-
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2A-Wall-AC-Power-Adapter-for-Portable-Digital-Recorders-Replace-TASCAM-PS-P515U-/252400322438?hash=item3ac43b4786:g:XQkAAOSw5VFWMrN2

I have the TASCAM PS-P515U for my DR-60D but want something in case I'm running both recorders which happens every now and then.
Thanks folks.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on April 06, 2017, 08:37:49 AM
Not a wall wart but I have two of these

http://www.ebay.com/itm/331541674213?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&var=540700709762&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

General consensus is they will run the deck forever!

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on April 06, 2017, 08:30:35 PM
I meant no run time if it's not recording.

Not following you.  Do you mean remaining time available?  It shows that on the top-right under the battery icon.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on April 06, 2017, 08:32:41 PM
Not a wall wart but I have two of these

http://www.ebay.com/itm/331541674213?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&var=540700709762&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

General consensus is they will run the deck forever!

Seconded.  Many of us have this battery, and while it's not really 20,000 mAh it does a great job powering the 70D for long hours.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on April 06, 2017, 09:13:30 PM
I meant no run time if it's not recording.

Not following you.  Do you mean remaining time available?  It shows that on the top-right under the battery icon.

if you haven't hit record then time shows as 00:00:00
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on April 07, 2017, 06:20:03 AM
I meant no run time if it's not recording.

Not following you.  Do you mean remaining time available?  It shows that on the top-right under the battery icon.

if you haven't hit record then time shows as 00:00:00

OK, yes on the large running time clock that's true.  How is that a problem?  I'm really lost here.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: vanark on April 07, 2017, 07:05:54 AM
If the clock isn't moving, you haven't pressed record.

I really don't see how Gordon wasn't clear on this.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 07, 2017, 09:51:52 PM
So the brand new recorder had a great opening performance last night. Recorded two bands, ran my recently phantom power modded Teac ME-120 mics in CH 1/2 and a soundboard feed into CH 3/4. Took me a couple minutes to find the phantom setting even though (I think) I saw it the night before when I was checking out the recorder settings.

What I didn't find last night was the low/med/high/high+ input gain settings, but I was still ok level-wise, more so on the sbd side than the mics.

It also seemed like the maximum headphones volume was nowhere near what the DR-60D puts out. And I will miss the ability to monitor channels 1/2 and 3/4 separately.

I do like the form factor with this deck, and no longer have to worry about the DR-60D CH 3/4 input problems I was having from time to time if the deck or cable got moved.

Thanks Voltronic for the FAQ, and Gordon for the battery suggestion. I probably should have one of those just in case.

Gotta lot to learn here...time to start reading thru these threads.  8)



Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on April 09, 2017, 06:06:03 AM
If the clock isn't moving, you haven't pressed record.

I really don't see how Gordon wasn't clear on this.

I thought he was saying that was a problem of some kind.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 10, 2017, 10:15:17 PM
70-D newbie question here-
Regarding this feature from the FAQ- 2MIX - *2MIX is a stereo mixdown of all armed channels.  PAN adjustments made to tracks will affect recordings made in this mode only

Is that another way of mixing four channels straight down to two? And if so, would that qualify as an instant matrix, delay and all?

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: ScoobieKW on April 11, 2017, 03:09:04 AM
70-D newbie question here-
Regarding this feature from the FAQ- 2MIX - *2MIX is a stereo mixdown of all armed channels.  PAN adjustments made to tracks will affect recordings made in this mode only

Is that another way of mixing four channels straight down to two? And if so, would that qualify as an instant matrix, delay and all?

That is correct. Pan and delay only affect the mix bus. This affects the 2MIX recording as well as the Line Out 1/8" output. When recording four tracks they will not affected. Typical usage of Line out of mix feature would be to feed audio to a streaming box such as Teradek's Vidiu.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 15, 2017, 07:43:21 PM
70-D newbie question here-
Regarding this feature from the FAQ- 2MIX - *2MIX is a stereo mixdown of all armed channels.  PAN adjustments made to tracks will affect recordings made in this mode only

Is that another way of mixing four channels straight down to two? And if so, would that qualify as an instant matrix, delay and all?

That is correct. Pan and delay only affect the mix bus. This affects the 2MIX recording as well as the Line Out 1/8" output. When recording four tracks they will not affected. Typical usage of Line out of mix feature would be to feed audio to a streaming box such as Teradek's Vidiu.
I realize that most folks here advise against it but, I want to try the 2Mix next weekend where I'll be archiving a three day indoor bluegrass festival with a set of mics hanging about 10ft in front of and about 15ft above the stage, and also a stereo sbd feed. I may only use minimal delay on the sbd feed if any.
I guess what I don't understand is how the levels will work. Is that final 2 track recording going to be based on the mic and sbd levels on my meters? That said, if I run all four inputs at about the same level, would that final mix then be a 50/50 matrix?
And do I have to run them a bit low so the combined signals aren't too high?
If I can get this to work well, it'll save me tons of time in post.


Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Life In Rewind on April 16, 2017, 07:41:44 AM
70-D newbie question here-
Regarding this feature from the FAQ- 2MIX - *2MIX is a stereo mixdown of all armed channels.  PAN adjustments made to tracks will affect recordings made in this mode only

Is that another way of mixing four channels straight down to two? And if so, would that qualify as an instant matrix, delay and all?

That is correct. Pan and delay only affect the mix bus. This affects the 2MIX recording as well as the Line Out 1/8" output. When recording four tracks they will not affected. Typical usage of Line out of mix feature would be to feed audio to a streaming box such as Teradek's Vidiu.
I realize that most folks here advise against it but, I want to try the 2Mix next weekend where I'll be archiving a three day indoor bluegrass festival with a set of mics hanging about 10ft in front of and about 15ft above the stage, and also a stereo sbd feed. I may only use minimal delay on the sbd feed if any.
I guess what I don't understand is how the levels will work. Is that final 2 track recording going to be based on the mic and sbd levels on my meters? That said, if I run all four inputs at about the same level, would that final mix then be a 50/50 matrix?
And do I have to run them a bit low so the combined signals aren't too high?
If I can get this to work well, it'll save me tons of time in post.

Add me to the list of folks advising against this...!

If it goes wrong - you're stuck.

Remember - since you're going to be using the same setup all weekend - In post - once you figure out your delay/alignment number - you can just repeat that for each set - no need to realign by eye/ear every set - that will cut down post time nicely.

Also - slightly concerned about you mic placement..."10 feet from the band and 15 feet above?"

Sounds too close - and too high. 10 feet sounds way to close for PA recording.

And - most sound guys are only 5-6 feet tall - and mix for the sound to be good where people are listening - not 15 feet above.

Stay on the speaker projection axis...

If you really want to try this - pick one of the early bands - and run one set like that - and then check it out...but I wouldn't roll the whole event like that.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 16, 2017, 10:30:27 AM
70-D newbie question here-
Regarding this feature from the FAQ- 2MIX - *2MIX is a stereo mixdown of all armed channels.  PAN adjustments made to tracks will affect recordings made in this mode only

Is that another way of mixing four channels straight down to two? And if so, would that qualify as an instant matrix, delay and all?

That is correct. Pan and delay only affect the mix bus. This affects the 2MIX recording as well as the Line Out 1/8" output. When recording four tracks they will not affected. Typical usage of Line out of mix feature would be to feed audio to a streaming box such as Teradek's Vidiu.
I realize that most folks here advise against it but, I want to try the 2Mix next weekend where I'll be archiving a three day indoor bluegrass festival with a set of mics hanging about 10ft in front of and about 15ft above the stage, and also a stereo sbd feed. I may only use minimal delay on the sbd feed if any.
I guess what I don't understand is how the levels will work. Is that final 2 track recording going to be based on the mic and sbd levels on my meters? That said, if I run all four inputs at about the same level, would that final mix then be a 50/50 matrix?
And do I have to run them a bit low so the combined signals aren't too high?
If I can get this to work well, it'll save me tons of time in post.

Add me to the list of folks advising against this...!

If it goes wrong - you're stuck.

Remember - since you're going to be using the same setup all weekend - In post - once you figure out your delay/alignment number - you can just repeat that for each set - no need to realign by eye/ear every set - that will cut down post time nicely.

Also - slightly concerned about you mic placement..."10 feet from the band and 15 feet above?"

Sounds too close - and too high. 10 feet sounds way to close for PA recording.

And - most sound guys are only 5-6 feet tall - and mix for the sound to be good where people are listening - not 15 feet above.

Stay on the speaker projection axis...

If you really want to try this - pick one of the early bands - and run one set like that - and then check it out...but I wouldn't roll the whole event like that.
I appreciate the advice, thanks.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Life In Rewind on April 16, 2017, 10:45:10 AM
70-D newbie question here-
Regarding this feature from the FAQ- 2MIX - *2MIX is a stereo mixdown of all armed channels.  PAN adjustments made to tracks will affect recordings made in this mode only

Is that another way of mixing four channels straight down to two? And if so, would that qualify as an instant matrix, delay and all?

That is correct. Pan and delay only affect the mix bus. This affects the 2MIX recording as well as the Line Out 1/8" output. When recording four tracks they will not affected. Typical usage of Line out of mix feature would be to feed audio to a streaming box such as Teradek's Vidiu.
I realize that most folks here advise against it but, I want to try the 2Mix next weekend where I'll be archiving a three day indoor bluegrass festival with a set of mics hanging about 10ft in front of and about 15ft above the stage, and also a stereo sbd feed. I may only use minimal delay on the sbd feed if any.
I guess what I don't understand is how the levels will work. Is that final 2 track recording going to be based on the mic and sbd levels on my meters? That said, if I run all four inputs at about the same level, would that final mix then be a 50/50 matrix?
And do I have to run them a bit low so the combined signals aren't too high?
If I can get this to work well, it'll save me tons of time in post.

Add me to the list of folks advising against this...!

If it goes wrong - you're stuck.

Remember - since you're going to be using the same setup all weekend - In post - once you figure out your delay/alignment number - you can just repeat that for each set - no need to realign by eye/ear every set - that will cut down post time nicely.

Also - slightly concerned about you mic placement..."10 feet from the band and 15 feet above?"

Sounds too close - and too high. 10 feet sounds way to close for PA recording.

And - most sound guys are only 5-6 feet tall - and mix for the sound to be good where people are listening - not 15 feet above.

Stay on the speaker projection axis...

If you really want to try this - pick one of the early bands - and run one set like that - and then check it out...but I wouldn't roll the whole event like that.
I appreciate the advice, thanks.

I think using stage/close micing for Bluegrass is not a great idea.

Those acoustic instruments don't really make any noise on stage, and the only stage sound will be from monitors...and those monitors are pointed at the musicians.

You really want the PA sound if you are thinking of fodder for matrix.

For bluegrass - get about 20-30 feet back from the PA - and use a pair of OMNIS - split about 6-8 feet...dreamy!

Check out this effort from last year...no matrix necessary!

https://archive.org/details/mountainride2016-06-11
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 16, 2017, 11:12:44 AM
70-D newbie question here-
Regarding this feature from the FAQ- 2MIX - *2MIX is a stereo mixdown of all armed channels.  PAN adjustments made to tracks will affect recordings made in this mode only

Is that another way of mixing four channels straight down to two? And if so, would that qualify as an instant matrix, delay and all?

That is correct. Pan and delay only affect the mix bus. This affects the 2MIX recording as well as the Line Out 1/8" output. When recording four tracks they will not affected. Typical usage of Line out of mix feature would be to feed audio to a streaming box such as Teradek's Vidiu.
I realize that most folks here advise against it but, I want to try the 2Mix next weekend where I'll be archiving a three day indoor bluegrass festival with a set of mics hanging about 10ft in front of and about 15ft above the stage, and also a stereo sbd feed. I may only use minimal delay on the sbd feed if any.
I guess what I don't understand is how the levels will work. Is that final 2 track recording going to be based on the mic and sbd levels on my meters? That said, if I run all four inputs at about the same level, would that final mix then be a 50/50 matrix?
And do I have to run them a bit low so the combined signals aren't too high?
If I can get this to work well, it'll save me tons of time in post.

Add me to the list of folks advising against this...!

If it goes wrong - you're stuck.

Remember - since you're going to be using the same setup all weekend - In post - once you figure out your delay/alignment number - you can just repeat that for each set - no need to realign by eye/ear every set - that will cut down post time nicely.

Also - slightly concerned about you mic placement..."10 feet from the band and 15 feet above?"

Sounds too close - and too high. 10 feet sounds way to close for PA recording.

And - most sound guys are only 5-6 feet tall - and mix for the sound to be good where people are listening - not 15 feet above.

Stay on the speaker projection axis...

If you really want to try this - pick one of the early bands - and run one set like that - and then check it out...but I wouldn't roll the whole event like that.
I appreciate the advice, thanks.

I think using stage/close micing for Bluegrass is not a great idea.

Those acoustic instruments don't really make any noise on stage, and the only stage sound will be from monitors...and those monitors are pointed at the musicians.

You really want the PA sound if you are thinking of fodder for matrix.

For bluegrass - get about 20-30 feet back from the PA - and use a pair of OMNIS - split about 6-8 feet...dreamy!

Check out this effort from last year...no matrix necessary!

https://archive.org/details/mountainride2016-06-11
That recording does sound nice. But it's not Colorado, where although crowds are not too bad for this particular venue/fest, are probably the chattiest anywhere on Earth. I don't record ever unless I have a board feed to go with the mics. And fortunately in my part of the state I get a board feed 99% of the time and can usually place my mics anywhere within reason.
I've been recording at this venue for a while and pulled 4 channel matrix recordings for three days straight at last years fest. Using a pair of cardioid condensers 35 feet from stage, about 8 feet high and a board feed. And am very happy with the results.
This year I was looking to get a closer mic position and I have the opportunity to mount a flange for mics permanently on the beam in front of the stage. And my assumption is that there will be less possible chatter with mics in that location and any combination of stage volume/PA will mix nicely with the board feed. I plan to use my phantom modded Teac ME-120s with card caps for this application.

So thank you for the advice. I'd like nothing more than to run a set of omni caps from 20-30 feet away but....

I am still looking for thoughts on how my four input levels on the DR-70D will affect the final two track mix.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on April 18, 2017, 05:47:43 PM
I'm sure I'm not the only one finding the 70d kind of a pain to fit in my gear bag to my liking.  This is not my full time deck so not getting another bag just for it.  So I made some stilts like I did years ago for my V3.

4 inch mending plates and Velcro from Home Depot = $8.  The have also have 5,6 + inch.  You could use the screw holes on the top if you wanted.

It's not pretty but it works!


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v488/datdork/2017-04-18%2020.02.43_zps8yc2i0bw.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/datdork/media/2017-04-18%2020.02.43_zps8yc2i0bw.jpg.html)


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v488/datdork/2017-04-18%2016.02.49_zpsr5uzo8nx.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/datdork/media/2017-04-18%2016.02.49_zpsr5uzo8nx.jpg.html)


(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v488/datdork/2017-04-18%2016.02.55_zpspiv9szoq.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/datdork/media/2017-04-18%2016.02.55_zpspiv9szoq.jpg.html)



(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v488/datdork/2017-04-18%2016.04.54_zps9gs9vejx.jpg) (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/datdork/media/2017-04-18%2016.04.54_zps9gs9vejx.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: HealthCov Chris on April 20, 2017, 11:34:29 PM

It also seemed like the maximum headphones volume was nowhere near what the DR-60D puts out. And I will miss the ability to monitor channels 1/2 and 3/4 separately.


I fully agree with the low headphone output.  I haven't tried yet, but can the output level in the Monitor Settings menu be turned up a few db to increase the headphone output level?  It can be turned up to +12db.

FYI.. I sold my Tascam DR-680mkii (which I loved and will miss), to downsize to the DR-70, and have been incredibly happy with the decision.  My gear bag size has decreased greatly, external 5V usb power is awesome (cheap, small, effective), and the pre's are equivalent.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 26, 2017, 09:00:23 AM
So I ordered one of the "Tascam DR-70D tested SD cards" from Amazon (sent from Circuit City) and it seems to be slightly different.

I ordered the SDSDUP-016G "Ultra Plus", but instead I got the SDSUNB-016G "Ultra" model card.

Should I be concerned?

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: dogmusic on April 26, 2017, 09:32:32 AM
So I ordered one of the "Tascam DR-70D tested SD cards" from Amazon (sent from Circuit City) and it seems to be slightly different.

I ordered the SDSDUP-016G "Ultra Plus", but instead I got the SDSUNB-016G "Ultra" model card.

Should I be concerned?

I could be wrong, but my impression was that after the FIRMWARE V1.14 update, using a card from the Tascam approved list was not as crucial.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on April 26, 2017, 12:24:58 PM
Trashcan never admitted that there was a problem, so they have not verified that they have fixed it.

I would stick with exactly what is on the list, but I've gotten burned a few times with the older firmware.

By the time 1.14 came out, most of us were paranoid enough to be using cards on the list.

Also, if you use a card not on their list, Tascam "customer service" will blow off your complaints.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on April 26, 2017, 06:58:08 PM
So I ordered one of the "Tascam DR-70D tested SD cards" from Amazon (sent from Circuit City) and it seems to be slightly different.

I ordered the SDSDUP-016G "Ultra Plus", but instead I got the SDSUNB-016G "Ultra" model card.

Should I be concerned?

Return it immediately.  Multiple red flags:

For starters, the card they sent is microSD card according to the model number you posted.  It's not what you ordered.

Second, Amazon is a SanDisk authorized retailer, but that only counts for items that are sold and shipped directly from them.  There are countless stories of counterfeit flash media on eBay and Amazon Marketplace.  Circuit City is not a SanDisk authorized retailer, so even though they are a known name I wouldn't totally trust this sale.

Third: The provenance of this card being in question and it not being on the approved card list, you're lowering the odds of it working correctly.

Best Buy has the card you're looking for, often in stock locally.  That's where I bought mine.

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 27, 2017, 07:58:37 AM
So I ordered one of the "Tascam DR-70D tested SD cards" from Amazon (sent from Circuit City) and it seems to be slightly different.

I ordered the SDSDUP-016G "Ultra Plus", but instead I got the SDSUNB-016G "Ultra" model card.

Should I be concerned?

Return it immediately.  Multiple red flags:

For starters, the card they sent is microSD card according to the model number you posted.  It's not what you ordered.

Second, Amazon is a SanDisk authorized retailer, but that only counts for items that are sold and shipped directly from them.  There are countless stories of counterfeit flash media on eBay and Amazon Marketplace.  Circuit City is not a SanDisk authorized retailer, so even though they are a known name I wouldn't totally trust this sale.

Third: The provenance of this card being in question and it not being on the approved card list, you're lowering the odds of it working correctly.

Best Buy has the card you're looking for, often in stock locally.  That's where I bought mine.
That's what I'm doing, returning it, although it is not a micro SD card.  Seemed like a good deal at $8.09 and free shipping. Guess I should have known better.
Thanks all.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on May 02, 2017, 11:44:26 PM
This, appears to be a legit approved SD card sold by Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007NDL56U/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I3S8SWJVE4KWA9&colid=SR8ZQ757MHK7&th=1

Should I risk it or hold out until I can make the long drive to a Best Buy, assuming they have something in stock. They refunded me and told me to keep the previous card that wasn't the exact model advertised.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on May 02, 2017, 11:59:12 PM
This, appears to be a legit approved SD card sold by Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007NDL56U/_encoding=UTF8?coliid=I3S8SWJVE4KWA9&colid=SR8ZQ757MHK7&th=1
that one is on the list as a good card for 16, 64, & 128 GB sizes, but NOT a good card for the 32GB size.

http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20151006.pdf

Sandisk customer service was kind enough to verify that my SDSDXPA-128G from amazon is legit.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: lsd2525 on May 24, 2017, 12:55:49 PM
Been searching on here for info on angled USB cables......I know some of you have bought some that work. Any suggestion? Sorry, I know it's been covered.

Will this work?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/mini-b-5pin-right-angle-male-cord-to-usb-a-male-right-angle-adapter-cable-25cm/141557527818?_trksid=p2385738.c100677.m4598&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20160908110712%26meid%3D17ea99d51e4b40d1afb7e0d45fd568c8%26pid%3D100677%26rk%3D12%26rkt%3D13%26sd%3D111589457057
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: hoppedup on May 24, 2017, 01:27:00 PM
Been searching on here for info on angled USB cables......I know some of you have bought some that work. Any suggestion? Sorry, I know it's been covered.

Will this work?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/mini-b-5pin-right-angle-male-cord-to-usb-a-male-right-angle-adapter-cable-25cm/141557527818?_trksid=p2385738.c100677.m4598&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20160908110712%26meid%3D17ea99d51e4b40d1afb7e0d45fd568c8%26pid%3D100677%26rk%3D12%26rkt%3D13%26sd%3D111589457057

Nope. You need micro B, not mini B https://www.ebay.com/p/?iid=322216431784&&&chn=ps

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: lsd2525 on May 24, 2017, 03:05:47 PM
Been searching on here for info on angled USB cables......I know some of you have bought some that work. Any suggestion? Sorry, I know it's been covered.

Will this work?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/mini-b-5pin-right-angle-male-cord-to-usb-a-male-right-angle-adapter-cable-25cm/141557527818?_trksid=p2385738.c100677.m4598&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D1%26asc%3D20160908110712%26meid%3D17ea99d51e4b40d1afb7e0d45fd568c8%26pid%3D100677%26rk%3D12%26rkt%3D13%26sd%3D111589457057

Nope. You need micro B, not mini B https://www.ebay.com/p/?iid=322216431784&&&chn=ps

Bingo! Thanks!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: audBall on May 29, 2017, 08:34:08 PM
It looks like there was a recent update to Tascam's Tested Media List on April 19th, 2017. Three Toshiba cards were added. Not sure what Remark O is all about. Perhaps they meant OK.

Link: http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20170419.pdf

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on May 29, 2017, 09:25:43 PM
It looks like there was a recent update to Tascam's Tested Media List on April 19th, 2017. Three Toshiba cards were added. Not sure what Remark O is all about. Perhaps they meant OK.

Link: http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20170419.pdf

Thanks for the update on this.  Not sure about the O remark, but I found this part at the bottom very helpful:

Quote
The majority of the media listed are the Japanese model names. To get the North American equivalent of these particular manufacturers...
SanDisk: Remove the 3 character suffix (-JXX) Lexar: Change the JP characters to NA Panasonic: Change the J character to A or U
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on May 30, 2017, 01:42:01 AM
It looks like there was a recent update to Tascam's Tested Media List on April 19th, 2017. Three Toshiba cards were added. Not sure what Remark O is all about. Perhaps they meant OK.

Link: http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20170419.pdf

Interesting that they have one sandisk and one sony card that they have the date listed as 9/12/2016 but that they never bothered to tell us about. I mean it's just a messed-up 16GB (*1) and a decent 8GB but still it shows that they have been working on it and not telling us everything!  :hmmm:

And egads, the one card over 32GB that they added is already expensive as heck - Toshiba SDXU-B064G is $190 on Spamazon!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on June 11, 2017, 04:16:52 PM
It looks like there was a recent update to Tascam's Tested Media List on April 19th, 2017. Three Toshiba cards were added. Not sure what Remark O is all about. Perhaps they meant OK.

Link: http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20170419.pdf

Interesting that they have one sandisk and one sony card that they have the date listed as 9/12/2016 but that they never bothered to tell us about. I mean it's just a messed-up 16GB (*1) and a decent 8GB but still it shows that they have been working on it and not telling us everything!  :hmmm:

And egads, the one card over 32GB that they added is already expensive as heck - Toshiba SDXU-B064G is $190 on Spamazon!

Clearly those Toshiba cards are not meant for the North American market, which is why they're so expensive.  Put the model numbers into Google, and you'll see all Asian sellers.  The listing on Amazon is also from a third party seller with not great reviews.  (In case anyone out there still doesn't know, only buy SD cards and other storage media on Amazon that is actually sold by Amazon, not a "marketplace" seller!)

As Tom said before (you remember him, don't you?) - all of the card testing is done by TEAC Japan so the cards that do get tested are often Japanese market ones.  Sometimes those have North American equivalent model numbers they are sold under; sometimes they do not.  I had an email exchange with SanDisk customer service last year where they confirmed that the same physical card is sold with different model number variants for different markets.  Other manufacturers likely do the same.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Julia on June 23, 2017, 08:19:01 PM
Dear forum,

I've just bought a Tascam DR-70D for taping concerts with miniature stereo mics and was wondering whether I could possibly ask you for some advice, since I still have a few questions - despite having spent the past two days reading through all the extremely helpful information and the posts on this website (many thanks!!!). I must admit that I used to record with a very simple Sony Hi-MD recorder (MZ-RH910), so I find all the settings on the Tascam really overwhelming!

Would the following setup be correct? I plug in my small Audio Technica microphone set from Sound Professionals into EXT IN 1/2 with a (very simple) 9V battery box (from Sound Professionals) and then set the input gain to "MIC" and the input to "EXT STEREO". (Or should I use the "LINE" setting because of the battery box?) Under "Basic" I turn ch1 and ch2 on, but ch3 and ch4 off, so I can turn dual recording on. Under "INPUT" I set "Input gain" to "MIC" and and turn everything else (limiter...) off. Under "Record setting", I thought I'd set the file type to "stereo", so I don't need to put the mono files together myself. I don't understand what "MS MODE 1/2" is, so I've turned it off ;D. I wanted to record in 24bit and 96 kHz on a 16GB SD card, hoping that 4 alkaline batteries (Duracell Ultra Power) would last for ca. 1.5 hours for a dual recording (without phantom power).

I've gathered that people normally set the gain to "LOW" for concert recordings. Where on the gain knobs (e.g. 12 o'clock) would you start? Or should I try "MID"? I want to record Jackson Browne tomorrow, where songs range from partially acoustic to very loud with a full band. And where between -1dB and -12dB would you set the dual recording?

And something completely different: I was a little shocked about the size and weight of the Tascam, since there'll be bag searches now at venues in the UK after the terrorist bomb attack at a concert in Manchester. Does anyone have any advice on getting something of that size past security? (Being female, I used to put my Hi-MD player into a bag of sanitary pads, which security never touched, but that trick won't work any more!)

Thank you so much in advance for any advice or thoughts that you might have!!
Julia
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on June 24, 2017, 11:07:48 AM
Dear forum,

I've just bought a Tascam DR-70D for taping concerts with miniature stereo mics and was wondering whether I could possibly ask you for some advice, since I still have a few questions - despite having spent the past two days reading through all the extremely helpful information and the posts on this website (many thanks!!!). I must admit that I used to record with a very simple Sony Hi-MD recorder (MZ-RH910), so I find all the settings on the Tascam really overwhelming!

Would the following setup be correct? I plug in my small Audio Technica microphone set from Sound Professionals into EXT IN 1/2 with a (very simple) 9V battery box (from Sound Professionals) and then set the input gain to "MIC" and the input to "EXT STEREO". (Or should I use the "LINE" setting because of the battery box?) Under "Basic" I turn ch1 and ch2 on, but ch3 and ch4 off, so I can turn dual recording on. Under "INPUT" I set "Input gain" to "MIC" and and turn everything else (limiter...) off. Under "Record setting", I thought I'd set the file type to "stereo", so I don't need to put the mono files together myself. I don't understand what "MS MODE 1/2" is, so I've turned it off ;D. I wanted to record in 24bit and 96 kHz on a 16GB SD card, hoping that 4 alkaline batteries (Duracell Ultra Power) would last for ca. 1.5 hours for a dual recording (without phantom power).

I've gathered that people normally set the gain to "LOW" for concert recordings. Where on the gain knobs (e.g. 12 o'clock) would you start? Or should I try "MID"? I want to record Jackson Browne tomorrow, where songs range from partially acoustic to very loud with a full band. And where between -1dB and -12dB would you set the dual recording?

And something completely different: I was a little shocked about the size and weight of the Tascam, since there'll be bag searches now at venues in the UK after the terrorist bomb attack at a concert in Manchester. Does anyone have any advice on getting something of that size past security? (Being female, I used to put my Hi-MD player into a bag of sanitary pads, which security never touched, but that trick won't work any more!)

Thank you so much in advance for any advice or thoughts that you might have!!
Julia

Welcome to TS, Julia!

This all sounds pretty good.  It sounds like you have deciphered the very confusing menu system of this unit fairly quickly. 

As far as LOW vs MID gain range, that depends on how far away from the PA / stage you will be.  I only record acoustic / classical and from very close, so I typically set to LOW with the knobs all the way up.  This tends to give me -12 to -16 dB peaks most of the time, which allows me plenty of wiggle room in case things suddenly get loud.  Unless you're going to be really far back and/or the show isn't very loud, I don't think you'll be going past the lower half of the MID range, if even that.  I have used the LOW range exclusively for the past year.

I always set my DUAL REC to -12 dB.  It gives the maximum set of "safety" on my safety tracks.  ;D

MS MODE 1/2 would activate the built-in mid-side processing matrix, which is a specialized recording technique that uses a pair of fig 8 mics or a cardioid and a fig 8.  I don't like to use the built-in matrix even when I'm doing a mid-side recording, as I prefer to do that in post.

As far as the security issue, others here who know about such things will likely reach out to you via PM.

Good luck!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: djphrayz on June 25, 2017, 10:44:00 AM
I just noticed this deal at bestbuy.com for Tascam approved flash media:
SanDisk - SDSDUP-032G - Ultra 32GB SDHC UHS-I Memory Card
While it shows $9.99 per card on the product page, if you add 3 or more to your cart, the priced reduces to $7.49/card.  You can purchase up to 5 in a single order and get free 2 day shipping.  WIN!
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sandisk-ultra-32gb-sdhc-uhs-i-memory-card-black-silver/5349305.p?skuId=5349305&productCategoryId= (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sandisk-ultra-32gb-sdhc-uhs-i-memory-card-black-silver/5349305.p?skuId=5349305&productCategoryId=)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on June 25, 2017, 02:54:32 PM
Dear forum,
(SNIP)
and turn everything else (limiter...) off. . .

I use the limiter. Try not to hammer your record levels over the top, but if you hit a little bit, the limiter smooths it out nicely.

Also I don't know why listeners would want or need 96kHz, when there is not much musical information above what humans can hear (approx 20 kHz top limit for young folks). I do suggest mastering at 24 bits, but only 48kHz sample rate.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: djphrayz on June 25, 2017, 06:17:58 PM
Dear forum,
(SNIP)
and turn everything else (limiter...) off. . .

I use the limiter. Try not to hammer your record levels over the top, but if you hit a little bit, the limiter smooths it out nicely.

Since the limiter is essentially compression with a really high compression ratio, it has the potential to wreak some havoc.  I prefer to use dual recording mode to create a safety track at -6dB from the main, which is about the half the level.  If I happen to get clipping on the main, I apply some light compression to a small sample of the quieter track.  I then adjust the gain up 6dB and replace the clipped section in the main with the processed section from the safety.  This requires a little more time and some understanding of how to use compression, but you have control over the amount of compression applied, while the limiter can potentially :smash: your recording to hell.   

Using a higher sampling rate can help maintain signal integrity throughout the mastering process.  So if you use any compression or EQ while mastering, you will get higher quality results after applying multiple effects and/or processes.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: vanark on June 25, 2017, 06:49:29 PM
I just noticed this deal at bestbuy.com for Tascam approved flash media:
SanDisk - SDSDUP-032G - Ultra 32GB SDHC UHS-I Memory Card
While it shows $9.99 per card on the product page, if you add 3 or more to your cart, the priced reduces to $7.49/card.  You can purchase up to 5 in a single order and get free 2 day shipping.  WIN!
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sandisk-ultra-32gb-sdhc-uhs-i-memory-card-black-silver/5349305.p?skuId=5349305&productCategoryId= (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sandisk-ultra-32gb-sdhc-uhs-i-memory-card-black-silver/5349305.p?skuId=5349305&productCategoryId=)

I'm not a 70D user, but that 32GB card is listed as "NG" on the official list. NG = Do not use.

http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20170419.pdf
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on June 25, 2017, 08:23:28 PM
Dear forum,
(SNIP)
and turn everything else (limiter...) off. . .

I use the limiter. Try not to hammer your record levels over the top, but if you hit a little bit, the limiter smooths it out nicely.

Since the limiter is essentially compression with a really high compression ratio, it has the potential to wreak some havoc.  I prefer to use dual recording mode to create a safety track at -6dB from the main, which is about the half the level.  If I happen to get clipping on the main, I apply some light compression to a small sample of the quieter track.  I then adjust the gain up 6dB and replace the clipped section in the main with the processed section from the safety.  This requires a little more time and some understanding of how to use compression, but you have control over the amount of compression applied, while the limiter can potentially :smash: your recording to hell.   

Using a higher sampling rate can help maintain signal integrity throughout the mastering process.  So if you use any compression or EQ while mastering, you will get higher quality results after applying multiple effects and/or processes.
I've used the dual record feature when I only have two inputs filled but I still run the limiter. It would be a cool firmware upgrade option (HAHAHA!!!  ::)  ) to be able to run the limiter on the first pair of dual record tracks, and forgo the limiter for the lower-level tracks. Dream On, I hear you say.  :zzz:

I've been running with the limiter since I had the option, certainly back to 2008 and not had the limiter spoil a moment of my recordings.  I'm sure it could happen, but the way I run conservative levels, it's not very likely. I just keep it on in case of accidental loud sounds and momentary transient overages. I have not noticed an audible problem, or any artifacts, but without my suggested update, it would be hard to A/B anything other than a test signal.

Also, I think it might be possible that there are cases where higher sample rate can "help maintain signal integrity" but the results seem largely anecdotal. Can you provide specific examples or studies showing that this is the case? It makes some intuitive sense but I'm not sure it's true.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: mfrench on June 25, 2017, 08:28:55 PM
Well, I had my first error last sunday.  I was rigged four channels; two as phantom, and 1&2 TRS input; @ 24.96
The day before I ran track at a rehearsal; no issue. The day of concert, as the house announcements were being made, I got a Write Error. I tried again, a couple of times, and got immediate errors.  So, I jumped into the menu, and changed sampling to 24.48, and tried again. This time it stuck, and the recording went off without further issue, with only the boiler plate house announcement being missed. But, that was too close.
I had Erase Formatted (long format) the card prior to use, as I always do. So, it was a cleaned card.
I tried replicating the issue at home, and no go.
The card is a Sandisk 16gb Tascam approved model.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: djphrayz on June 25, 2017, 08:37:25 PM
I just noticed this deal at bestbuy.com for Tascam approved flash media:
SanDisk - SDSDUP-032G - Ultra 32GB SDHC UHS-I Memory Card
While it shows $9.99 per card on the product page, if you add 3 or more to your cart, the priced reduces to $7.49/card.  You can purchase up to 5 in a single order and get free 2 day shipping.  WIN!
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sandisk-ultra-32gb-sdhc-uhs-i-memory-card-black-silver/5349305.p?skuId=5349305&productCategoryId= (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sandisk-ultra-32gb-sdhc-uhs-i-memory-card-black-silver/5349305.p?skuId=5349305&productCategoryId=)

I'm not a 70D user, but that 32GB card is listed as "NG" on the official list. NG = Do not use.

http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20170419.pdf

Well that's an inconvenient truth!  I'm glad I posted and especially glad you responded!  I can't believe I overlooked that detail, but I guess that explains why they are giving them away!!  :(
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: djphrayz on June 25, 2017, 08:52:11 PM
I just noticed this deal at bestbuy.com for Tascam approved flash media:
SanDisk - SDSDUP-032G - Ultra 32GB SDHC UHS-I Memory Card
While it shows $9.99 per card on the product page, if you add 3 or more to your cart, the priced reduces to $7.49/card.  You can purchase up to 5 in a single order and get free 2 day shipping.  WIN!
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sandisk-ultra-32gb-sdhc-uhs-i-memory-card-black-silver/5349305.p?skuId=5349305&productCategoryId= (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/sandisk-ultra-32gb-sdhc-uhs-i-memory-card-black-silver/5349305.p?skuId=5349305&productCategoryId=)

I'm not a 70D user, but that 32GB card is listed as "NG" on the official list. NG = Do not use.

http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20170419.pdf

Well that's an inconvenient truth!  I'm glad I posted and especially glad you responded!  I can't believe I overlooked that detail, but I guess that explains why they are giving them away!!  :(

Has anyone found a good deal on approved media lately?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: dallman on June 26, 2017, 11:36:28 AM
Well, I had my first error last sunday.  I was rigged four channels; two as phantom, and 1&2 TRS input; @ 24.96
The day before I ran track at a rehearsal; no issue. The day of concert, as the house announcements were being made, I got a Write Error. I tried again, a couple of times, and got immediate errors.  So, I jumped into the menu, and changed sampling to 24.48, and tried again. This time it stuck, and the recording went off without further issue, with only the boiler plate house announcement being missed. But, that was too close.
I had Erase Formatted (long format) the card prior to use, as I always do. So, it was a cleaned card.
I tried replicating the issue at home, and no go.
The card is a Sandisk 16gb Tascam approved model.

I seem to remember something about only using the quick format on the DR70d. It was added during a firmware upgrade? I am sure one of the long time users of the deck can speak with more authority.

I actually just used my DR70d for the first time. I bought it to have as a deck to leave in NYC so when I am in town, I don't have to bring a full rig. I had been most recently  playing with the DR701d, and I like the menus and ganging abilities, and just kept avoiding using the DR70d. I was really surprised at just how nice and detailed the pre's were and while I like the scrolling menu feature better on the DR701d, (similar to the differences between the DR680 and DR680MKII), it was actually a breeze to run and work, just as easy when all was said and done. Here is a sample, and I would say to anyone, take a listen, the detail is excellent! I did no acoustic editing at all on the recording as none was needed.

Here is 1/2:
https://archive.org/details/DSO2017-06-22.MNZooBerlinerCM33Cardioid (https://archive.org/details/DSO2017-06-22.MNZooBerlinerCM33Cardioid)

I did not get a chance to upload 3/4 to archive yet, but it can be downloaded from etree:

http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593848 (http://bt.etree.org/details.php?id=593848)  (Busman BSC1 Omnis

I honestly do not know which version I like more. I now know I can keep that deck ready and able when I am in the city, and it'll absolutely get the job done.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on June 26, 2017, 12:55:19 PM
I seem to remember something about only using the quick format on the DR70d. It was added during a firmware upgrade? I am sure one of the long time users of the deck can speak with more authority.

The original firmware only had a the Quick format.  It was the Erase (AKA Full) format that was added in a later firmware, maybe 1.10.

If you really want to make sure your SD card is being formatted thoroughly, use the SD Association Formatter with the Erase OverWrite routine.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on June 26, 2017, 01:04:09 PM
Dear forum,
(SNIP)
and turn everything else (limiter...) off. . .

I use the limiter. Try not to hammer your record levels over the top, but if you hit a little bit, the limiter smooths it out nicely.

Since the limiter is essentially compression with a really high compression ratio, it has the potential to wreak some havoc.  I prefer to use dual recording mode to create a safety track at -6dB from the main, which is about the half the level.  If I happen to get clipping on the main, I apply some light compression to a small sample of the quieter track.  I then adjust the gain up 6dB and replace the clipped section in the main with the processed section from the safety.  This requires a little more time and some understanding of how to use compression, but you have control over the amount of compression applied, while the limiter can potentially :smash: your recording to hell.   

Using a higher sampling rate can help maintain signal integrity throughout the mastering process.  So if you use any compression or EQ while mastering, you will get higher quality results after applying multiple effects and/or processes.
I've used the dual record feature when I only have two inputs filled but I still run the limiter. It would be a cool firmware upgrade option (HAHAHA!!!  ::)  ) to be able to run the limiter on the first pair of dual record tracks, and forgo the limiter for the lower-level tracks. Dream On, I hear you say.  :zzz:

I've been running with the limiter since I had the option, certainly back to 2008 and not had the limiter spoil a moment of my recordings.  I'm sure it could happen, but the way I run conservative levels, it's not very likely. I just keep it on in case of accidental loud sounds and momentary transient overages. I have not noticed an audible problem, or any artifacts, but without my suggested update, it would be hard to A/B anything other than a test signal.

Also, I think it might be possible that there are cases where higher sample rate can "help maintain signal integrity" but the results seem largely anecdotal. Can you provide specific examples or studies showing that this is the case? It makes some intuitive sense but I'm not sure it's true.

The reason to avoid using the limiter on the 70D (and other inexpensive digital recorders with digital limiters) is that they add noise to the recording by virtue of how they work.  Now, the question is - is that noise audible, or is it buried in the ambient noise floor of what you're recording?

Not sure about the "maintain signal integrity" for higher sampling rates thing.  There's some audiophile classical labels who record at 192kHz, but it seems like massive overkill.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: dallman on June 26, 2017, 01:15:14 PM
I seem to remember something about only using the quick format on the DR70d. It was added during a firmware upgrade? I am sure one of the long time users of the deck can speak with more authority.

The original firmware only had a the Quick format.  It was the Erase (AKA Full) format that was added in a later firmware, maybe 1.10.

If you really want to make sure your SD card is being formatted thoroughly, use the SD Association Formatter with the Erase OverWrite routine.

I knew you would get this right for me, and I hope the process you mentioned helps Moke,  Thanks!  :coolguy:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on June 26, 2017, 05:08:01 PM
The reason to avoid using the limiter on the 70D (and other inexpensive digital recorders with digital limiters) is that they add noise to the recording by virtue of how they work.  Now, the question is - is that noise audible, or is it buried in the ambient noise floor of what you're recording?
With what I record it's undoubtedly buried under signal and ambient noise but please tell me more about this. Do limiters add noise when they are not limiting, and if so, why/how? Are better limiters (like studio quality or mastering quality) designed differently, or is it the quality of the electrical components that makes the difference?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on June 27, 2017, 08:32:48 AM
The reason to avoid using the limiter on the 70D (and other inexpensive digital recorders with digital limiters) is that they add noise to the recording by virtue of how they work.  Now, the question is - is that noise audible, or is it buried in the ambient noise floor of what you're recording?
With what I record it's undoubtedly buried under signal and ambient noise but please tell me more about this. Do limiters add noise when they are not limiting, and if so, why/how? Are better limiters (like studio quality or mastering quality) designed differently, or is it the quality of the electrical components that makes the difference?

You have to separate limiters in software that you use for post in a DAW from those in a portable recorder which don't have any of the issues we're talking about.

Limiters in pro field recorders like Sound Devices, Aeta, Zaxcom are Analog limiters.  The limiting happens between the mic preamp and the ADC.  The least expensive recorders I've seen with analog limiters are the new MixPre series.

Cheaper field recorders like the 70D on up to the Zoom F8 have digital limiters.  This is much cheaper to do, but the limiting is happening post-ADC.  This means that there is the potential to clip the ADC from it being fed too hot a level from the mic preamp.

EDIT: Also, if the metering is post-ADC (and therefore post-limiter), you might not know the clipping at the ADC is even happening.  There's no block diagram for the 70D, but I found one for the 680D (https://www.manualslib.com/manual/907597/Tascam-Dr-680.html?page=57#manual).  Looking at pages 57 and 58 seems to indicate this is the case for this recorder.  I'd prefer to have the meter tapped at the analog stage right before the ADC, but something tells me this would add cost.

I'll admit my understanding of digital limiters in field recorders is pretty limited  ;)  so someone else will probably explain this better.  But the way I understand it, engaging the limiter in the 70D and similar units drops the gain by a fixed amount, say -12 dB (again, post-ADC), applies the limiting parameters, and then raises the level 12 dB back up.  The issue is that this this then raises the noisefloor by that 12 dB when the gain is added back post-limiter.  This is because you're now amplifying all of the internal noise of the recorder 12 dB, along with your music.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on June 28, 2017, 12:06:31 AM
But the way I understand it, engaging the limiter in the 70D and similar units drops the gain by a fixed amount, say -12 dB (again, post-ADC), applies the limiting parameters, and then raises the level 12 dB back up.  The issue is that this this then raises the noisefloor by that 12 dB when the gain is added back post-limiter.  This is because you're now amplifying all of the internal noise of the recorder 12 dB, along with your music.

EEEEEWWWW!!!!!  GROSS!!!! REALLY???

Hold on. 24 bits.. 22 bits... rock & roll.  OK no wonder I never noticed it, but theoretically, that SUCKS!!!!!  :banging head:  ;)  :angry3:  ::)  :angry2:  :hmmm:  :smash:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on July 05, 2017, 05:05:52 PM
make sure to hit record!  seriously!  one thing I love about this deck is if it's on you can see levels as if it was in record/pause.  one thing I hate about this deck is if it's on you can see levels as if it was in record/pause!
Yes, it's different from other decks that you put into "REC/PAUSE" mode first and then "release" the transport to start recording like you would on a tape deck.  But the easy way to tell is that Red LED on = Recording.
You guys can say that again...I had to do a search to see how the darn thing paused.  :facepalm:
I think I'll be ok with it, enough of the features and functionality are similar to the DR-60D which is my regular recorder.

So how do you pause / stop the recording during a setbreak ?

Where is the stop button mentioned within the main menu options ?

Does it need to be plugged in to power up ?

Going to try my new unit picked uo in the yard sale this weekend. Eventually I would like to run CA-14 in the input for ch 1 and 2, which internal setting would I choose there ?

thx
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: heathen on July 05, 2017, 06:13:55 PM
Going to try my new unit picked uo in the yard sale this weekend. Eventually I would like to run CA-14 in the input for ch 1 and 2, which internal setting would I choose there ?

I run CA-14 omni into CA Ugly BB into the input for channels 1/2.  Here are my relevant settings:

Basic menu -

Ch 1 - Record on, Pan left 12, Gain mid, input 1/2 ext_stereo
Ch 2 - same but Pan right 12

Input menu -

Ch 1 - Input gain mic, Limiter off, Lowcut off, Delay ref., Phase off
Ch 2 - same but Delay 0 ms

Mic menu -

MS Mode 1/2 off

I don't claim to be an expert but this seems to be working fine so far.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on July 05, 2017, 06:28:04 PM
thx Heathen.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on July 05, 2017, 06:35:29 PM
So how do you pause / stop the recording during a setbreak ?

Where is the stop button mentioned within the main menu options ?

The record button toggles start / stop of recording.  There technically is a stop button, but it shares double-duty with the Channel 1 button, and I think it's only used during playback mode.

Does it need to be plugged in to power up ?

Not if you're using the internal AA batteries.   :) But I strongly recommend using a external USB battery like many of us do.  In that case, you'd turn on your USB battery, then power on the 70D.  It will detect that USB is connected, at which point you select BUS POWER with the DATA knob.  If the USB logo is on the screen, you know you're running off of the external power and you're good to go.

Going to try my new unit picked uo in the yard sale this weekend. Eventually I would like to run CA-14 in the input for ch 1 and 2, which internal setting would I choose there ?

BASIC
RECORD: ON
PAN: LEFT 12
GAIN: LOW (unless you're recording quiet things and/or far away, in which case go with MID)
INPUT 1/2: EXT_STEREO (This is the mini plug input on the left, which will take the output from your battery box powering the CA-14s.)

Repeat the above settings for CH2, except PAN would be RIGHT 12

RECORD
FILE TYPE: STEREO
FORMAT: BWF 24bit
SAMPLE: 48 kHz

Everything else should be left at default settings.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: noahbickart on July 05, 2017, 07:26:18 PM
If you are using anything except phantom powered microphones, make sure you turn off phantom before plugging anything into the xlr inputs.

Read this:  http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/e_dr-70d_rm_vb.pdf
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on July 05, 2017, 07:35:46 PM
Cool, thx Guys! I did review a lot of the FAQ and discussion in the previous 8 threads. Appreciate your prompt feedback.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: ts on July 05, 2017, 07:42:32 PM
So how do you pause / stop the recording during a setbreak ?

Where is the stop button mentioned within the main menu options ?

The record button toggles start / stop of recording.  There technically is a stop button, but it shares double-duty with the Channel 1 button, and I think it's only used during playback mode.

Does it need to be plugged in to power up ?

Not if you're using the internal AA batteries.   :) But I strongly recommend using a external USB battery like many of us do.  In that case, you'd turn on your USB battery, then power on the 70D.  It will detect that USB is connected, at which point you select BUS POWER with the DATA knob.  If the USB logo is on the screen, you know you're running off of the external power and you're good to go.

Going to try my new unit picked uo in the yard sale this weekend. Eventually I would like to run CA-14 in the input for ch 1 and 2, which internal setting would I choose there ?

BASIC
RECORD: ON
PAN: LEFT 12
GAIN: LOW (unless you're recording quiet things and/or far away, in which case go with MID)
INPUT 1/2: EXT_STEREO (This is the mini plug input on the left, which will take the output from your battery box powering the CA-14s.)

Repeat the above settings for CH2, except PAN would be RIGHT 12

RECORD
FILE TYPE: STEREO
FORMAT: BWF 24bit
SAMPLE: 48 kHz

Everything else should be left at default settings.

Why BWF and not WAV?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on July 05, 2017, 09:07:58 PM
Why BWF and not WAV?

They're both WAV files from an audio-only standpoint, but BWF is the standard format for DAWs and professional recorders.  It contains a metadata chunk in the file header where you can embed time coding and other useful information.  As soon as Tascam added BWF in a firmware update, I switched to that format.  While I haven't needed to use things like Start Offsets which BWF allows, the metadata makes moving your recordings between recording / editing systems for a variety of reasons.  There's no reason to not use it.

http://www.audiorecording.me/what-is-broadcast-wave-format-bwf-how-to-use-it-in-your-daw.html (http://www.audiorecording.me/what-is-broadcast-wave-format-bwf-how-to-use-it-in-your-daw.html)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broadcast_Wave_Format (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broadcast_Wave_Format)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: ts on July 05, 2017, 09:09:49 PM
Why BWF and not WAV?

They're both WAV files from an audio-only standpoint, but BWF is the standard format for DAWs and professional recorders.  It contains a metadata chunk in the file header where you can embed time coding and other useful information.  As soon as Tascam added BWF in a firmware update, I switched to that format.  While I haven't needed to use things like Start Offsets which BWF allows, the metadata makes moving your recordings between recording / editing systems for a variety of reasons.  There's no reason to not use it.

http://www.audiorecording.me/what-is-broadcast-wave-format-bwf-how-to-use-it-in-your-daw.html (http://www.audiorecording.me/what-is-broadcast-wave-format-bwf-how-to-use-it-in-your-daw.html)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broadcast_Wave_Format (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broadcast_Wave_Format)

Sorry, I always thought it was just for video editing.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on July 06, 2017, 08:50:36 AM
Why BWF and not WAV?

They're both WAV files from an audio-only standpoint, but BWF is the standard format for DAWs and professional recorders.  It contains a metadata chunk in the file header where you can embed time coding and other useful information.  As soon as Tascam added BWF in a firmware update, I switched to that format.  While I haven't needed to use things like Start Offsets which BWF allows, the metadata makes moving your recordings between recording / editing systems for a variety of reasons.  There's no reason to not use it.

http://www.audiorecording.me/what-is-broadcast-wave-format-bwf-how-to-use-it-in-your-daw.html (http://www.audiorecording.me/what-is-broadcast-wave-format-bwf-how-to-use-it-in-your-daw.html)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broadcast_Wave_Format (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Broadcast_Wave_Format)

Sorry, I always thought it was just for video editing.

Well you would probably want to use BWF in a video editing situation because of the time coding capability, but it is useful in audio-only applications as well.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on July 06, 2017, 02:34:02 PM
I just switched my DR-70D over to BWF and made a quick test recording, and the only difference in statistics that is shown when I use SHNTOOL INFO in xACT is that the header size is now 688 bytes (was 44 bytes) and the header now flags as Non-Canonical.

Code: [Select]
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
File name:                    /Volumes/DR-70D/MUSIC/170706_0215S12.wav
Handled by:                   wav format module
Length:                       0:07.416
WAVE format:                  0x0001 (Microsoft PCM)
Channels:                     2
Bits/sample:                  24
Samples/sec:                  48000
Average bytes/sec:            288000
Rate (calculated):            288000
Block align:                  6
Header size:                  688 bytes
Data size:                    2135808 bytes
Chunk size:                   2136488 bytes
Total size (chunk size + 8):  2136496 bytes
Actual file size:             2136496
File is compressed:           no
Compression ratio:            1.0000
CD-quality properties:
  CD quality:                 no
  Cut on sector boundary:     n/a
  Sector misalignment:        n/a
  Long enough to be burned:   n/a
WAVE properties:
  Non-canonical header:       yes
  Extra RIFF chunks:          no
Possible problems:
  File contains ID3v2 tag:    no
  Data chunk block-aligned:   yes
  Inconsistent header:        no
  File probably truncated:    no
  Junk appended to file:      no
  Odd data size has pad byte: n/a
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: lsd2525 on July 06, 2017, 09:39:59 PM
Hey I just posted this in the post forum but wondering if this might be 70 specific????

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182787.0
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on July 09, 2017, 09:45:05 AM
My first recording of a local cover band from last night turned out pretty nice using my new 70D Recorder. way more complex than my TASCAM 100DR-100mkII but I think I am getting a feel for it.

https://archive.org/details/TheMightyManatees2017-07-08.RodeM5.Flac16

Just curious, and I know this is not recommended...but what would I adjust in Menu settings if I wanted to capture both set of mic's into 1 recording file ? Maybe I missed that in the instruction Manual. thx all.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: noahbickart on July 09, 2017, 01:10:25 PM
My first recording of a local cover band from last night turned out pretty nice using my new 70D Recorder. way more complex than my TASCAM 100DR-100mkII but I think I am getting a feel for it.

https://archive.org/details/TheMightyManatees2017-07-08.RodeM5.Flac16

Just curious, and I know this is not recommended...but what would I adjust in Menu settings if I wanted to capture both set of mic's into 1 recording file ? Maybe I missed that in the instruction Manual. thx all.

See p. 18 of the manual.

But, it's a much much much better idea to combine multiple tracks in post.

I use reaper for this.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on July 09, 2017, 01:27:30 PM
My first recording of a local cover band from last night turned out pretty nice using my new 70D Recorder. way more complex than my TASCAM 100DR-100mkII but I think I am getting a feel for it.

https://archive.org/details/TheMightyManatees2017-07-08.RodeM5.Flac16

Just curious, and I know this is not recommended...but what would I adjust in Menu settings if I wanted to capture both set of mic's into 1 recording file ? Maybe I missed that in the instruction Manual. thx all.

See p. 18 of the manual.

But, it's a much much much better idea to combine multiple tracks in post.

I use reaper for this.

The manual is confusing, and the menu system equally so.  Check out the 70D FAQ (see my signature) for a quick menu reference.  I made it for myself as much as I did for everyone else, because I kept selecting the wrong menu tree to do what I needed.

Just to clarify so you're getting what you want - what Noah is talking about is that you can set the 70D to 2MIX mode where it records a stereo down mix of all armed channels.  I strongly advise against doing this, as you cannot alter the mix later.

What you may instead have been thinking of are polyphonic WAV files.  In that case, you have one file container but actually contains 2, 4, 6, 8 etc. tracks inside it that can be separately manipulated in post, and extracted to separate files if you so desire.  The new SD MixPre series writes these kinds of files, but 70D cannot do this - it only writes mono or stereo WAVs.

Long story short, if you're using stereo pairs, the best thing is to just set the record format to Stereo.  It will write two stereo WAV files if you're recording 4 tracks.  Drag the resulting files into your DAW together at the same point, and you're good to go.

Emphatic +1 on Reaper. :coolguy:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on July 21, 2017, 09:45:51 PM
Question for you all.
I'm considering using the DR-70 Line out instead of my usual DR-60 Line out to stream (audio only) at an upcoming two day festival (a mix of funk, jamgrass, americana etc.). With the DR-60 I was able to control the Line Out output gain, but with the DR-70 I have no such option, other than the -102/+12db Output Level settings with the Output Gain set to Line.

I'm reasonably confident I can make up for any gain with the Adobe FMLE software I use to stream.  Is there any other considerations I should have with regard to the output of the DR-70?

I'll be running 4 channels into the recorder, two soundboard, two mics.

Any thoughts appreciated.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on July 22, 2017, 01:58:06 AM
Yeah, big time. Off the top of my head, I think you need to set the delay on the SBD channels so it arrives JUST before the mics, otherwise your on-the-spot four channel mix will have significant time smear!

Myself, I use a Mac widget called Sound Reference to calculate delay based on speed of sound under various conditions.

  Is there any other considerations I should have with regard to the output of the DR-70?

I'll be running 4 channels into the recorder, two soundboard, two mics.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on July 22, 2017, 10:07:22 AM
Yeah, big time. Off the top of my head, I think you need to set the delay on the SBD channels so it arrives JUST before the mics, otherwise your on-the-spot four channel mix will have significant time smear!

Myself, I use a Mac widget called Sound Reference to calculate delay based on speed of sound under various conditions.

  Is there any other considerations I should have with regard to the output of the DR-70?

I'll be running 4 channels into the recorder, two soundboard, two mics.
I should have mentioned that, but I'll have the delay on the soundboard channels set based on distance to the PA. I've done this gig a few times and have that part nailed down pretty good and I'm told the streams sound great. But thanks for mentioning that!
I'm just a little worried using a different recorder this time.


Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: mfrench on July 22, 2017, 12:51:19 PM
Question for you all.
I'm considering using the DR-70 Line out instead of my usual DR-60 Line out to stream (audio only) at an upcoming two day festival (a mix of funk, jamgrass, americana etc.). With the DR-60 I was able to control the Line Out output gain, but with the DR-70 I have no such option, other than the -102/+12db Output Level settings with the Output Gain set to Line.

I'm reasonably confident I can make up for any gain with the Adobe FMLE software I use to stream.  Is there any other considerations I should have with regard to the output of the DR-70?

I'll be running 4 channels into the recorder, two soundboard, two mics.

Any thoughts appreciated.

This is sort of a bassackwards approach, but,... you can also use the headphone output jack as a variable gain output source. You won't be able to monitor with cans, but, you do have the option of variable gain output.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on July 22, 2017, 04:03:07 PM
Question for you all.
I'm considering using the DR-70 Line out instead of my usual DR-60 Line out to stream (audio only) at an upcoming two day festival (a mix of funk, jamgrass, americana etc.). With the DR-60 I was able to control the Line Out output gain, but with the DR-70 I have no such option, other than the -102/+12db Output Level settings with the Output Gain set to Line.

I'm reasonably confident I can make up for any gain with the Adobe FMLE software I use to stream.  Is there any other considerations I should have with regard to the output of the DR-70?

I'll be running 4 channels into the recorder, two soundboard, two mics.

Any thoughts appreciated.

This is sort of a bassackwards approach, but,... you can also use the headphone output jack as a variable gain output source. You won't be able to monitor with cans, but, you do have the option of variable gain output.
The DR-70 headphone output is kind of lame in my opinion, and I will want to have it available to listen.
I'm not sure what you mean about my approach, how would you suggest I feed the stream?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: mfrench on July 22, 2017, 04:25:25 PM
I was referring to my own suggestion of the h.phone amp as bassackwards, preemptively; nothing to do with yours.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on July 22, 2017, 06:55:15 PM
I was referring to my own suggestion of the h.phone amp as bassackwards, preemptively; nothing to do with yours.
Got it thanks!
I was re-reading my post thinking I had something backwards, which is always possible.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on August 23, 2017, 04:49:42 PM
If you are using anything except phantom powered microphones, make sure you turn off phantom before plugging anything into the xlr inputs.

Read this:  http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/e_dr-70d_rm_vb.pdf

I just wanted to say how much I am enjoying working with this new recorder, we are starting to get along quite well.

Thanks for selling it to me, and answering some of my initial questions to get started.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on September 08, 2017, 10:02:45 AM
question for folks that run a pre in front.  so I'm running line in on all channels, 1/2 from pre and 3/4 for sbd.  do you do low or mid gain?  I want to get all/most gain from the pre and have been using low.  With the gain on the Femto (pre) set the same I find I have to add more gain with the 70d than when I use the m10.  going to play around with it in front of the stereo but was wondering.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on September 08, 2017, 10:58:57 AM
now I have to ask if low, mid etc even matter for line in?  I just tested both with the gain the exact same on the preamp (femto) with the same song at the same volume and max peak/levels were identical!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: HealthCov Chris on September 11, 2017, 11:35:48 AM

Going to try my new unit picked uo in the yard sale this weekend. Eventually I would like to run CA-14 in the input for ch 1 and 2, which internal setting would I choose there ?

thx

Just to add, when recording outdoors I also use CA-14 omni's split apart as channels 1&2 (mini plug) with the 70D's plug in power, while supporting AKG 483's with Phantom48 to channels 3&4.  I find that there is little to no noticeable difference from using my battery box.  I am sure there are times this may not be the case, but I have recorded loud festivals and the CA's sound great on PIP.  For what its worth, you may not need to get a battery box for your CA-14 right away.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on September 12, 2017, 06:38:48 AM
now I have to ask if low, mid etc even matter for line in?  I just tested both with the gain the exact same on the preamp (femto) with the same song at the same volume and max peak/levels were identical!

AFAIK, the gain range selection (low/mid/high/high+) only matters if input type is set to MIC, be that on the combo jacks or the miniplug input.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on September 12, 2017, 10:44:43 AM
now I have to ask if low, mid etc even matter for line in?  I just tested both with the gain the exact same on the preamp (femto) with the same song at the same volume and max peak/levels were identical!

AFAIK, the gain range selection (low/mid/high/high+) only matters if input type is set to MIC, be that on the combo jacks or the miniplug input.

That sounds right given the results I had.  thanks!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: heathen on September 13, 2017, 11:04:01 AM
Not that it's necessarily an issue specific to the 70D, but I recently had a bit of a hiccup running one of these batteries to power my 70D:

Quote
Recommended External Batteries: (These batteries have been used by members with the 70D specifically.)

Generic "Power Bank" 20,000 mAh UltraThin - shown in use here.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ultrathin-20000mAh-Portable-External-Battery-Charger-Power-Bank-for-Cell-Phone/351755095213

Between an opener and the main act the battery showed 66% remaining (I think it started the show in the 70s, so the rest should have been way more than enough to finish out the show).  Only a couple of minutes into the main act the battery died, going straight to 0%.  I'm not sure if there is something wrong with that battery in particular, or if it's just a matter of subpar readout of the amount remaining, but I figured I'd give others a heads up to watch out for that.  Otherwise the battery is great...it takes quite a while to go from 100% to the 70% range!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: dogmusic on September 13, 2017, 01:51:49 PM
I'm not sure if this has been asked before, but for those who use the DR70D to make 4 channel recordings, what is your method for playing back those four tracks from four separate speakers? I have an A/V receiver with separate analog inputs. But the deck only has stereo out.


Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on September 13, 2017, 07:50:29 PM
Not that it's necessarily an issue specific to the 70D, but I recently had a bit of a hiccup running one of these batteries to power my 70D:

Quote
Recommended External Batteries: (These batteries have been used by members with the 70D specifically.)

Generic "Power Bank" 20,000 mAh UltraThin - shown in use here.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ultrathin-20000mAh-Portable-External-Battery-Charger-Power-Bank-for-Cell-Phone/351755095213

Between an opener and the main act the battery showed 66% remaining (I think it started the show in the 70s, so the rest should have been way more than enough to finish out the show).  Only a couple of minutes into the main act the battery died, going straight to 0%.  I'm not sure if there is something wrong with that battery in particular, or if it's just a matter of subpar readout of the amount remaining, but I figured I'd give others a heads up to watch out for that.  Otherwise the battery is great...it takes quite a while to go from 100% to the 70% range!

Well, something to be aware of is that the first two of those "Power Bank" batteries I purchased have been excellent performers, but recently I bought I third and it was not the same.  Cosmetically / dimensionally identical, but much lighter weight.  It dies very quickly charging a phone, and is completely worthless.

The other thing to keep in mind is that the discharge curve for many batteries often takes a steep plunge downward after a certain point.  So given a constant draw, the time it takes you to go from 100% to 50% may be much longer than 50% to 0.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on September 13, 2017, 07:58:02 PM
I'm not sure if this has been asked before, but for those who use the DR70D to make 4 channel recordings, what is your method for playing back those four tracks from four separate speakers? I have an A/V receiver with separate analog inputs. But the deck only has stereo out.

You're describing something like Quadrophonic, which was a fad surround-ish technique that required 4 speakers surrounding the listener.  There are certain modern surround / ambiance recording techniques that may benefit from similar playback.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but you're not making recordings such as these; you're just using two stereo mic arrays for a concert, correct?  I do this sometimes, and you load them into your DAW and mix away but the end result is always a 2-channel stereo file.

The 70D only has the stereo out, and regardless of the number of tracks you have or the configuration of them, that output is being fed a 2-channel stereo mixdown of everything.  It's not possible to do what you're suggesting direct from the 70D, but I don't see why you'd want to.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: dogmusic on September 13, 2017, 10:44:30 PM
I'm not sure if this has been asked before, but for those who use the DR70D to make 4 channel recordings, what is your method for playing back those four tracks from four separate speakers? I have an A/V receiver with separate analog inputs. But the deck only has stereo out.

You're describing something like Quadrophonic, which was a fad surround-ish technique that required 4 speakers surrounding the listener.  There are certain modern surround / ambiance recording techniques that may benefit from similar playback.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but you're not making recordings such as these; you're just using two stereo mic arrays for a concert, correct?  I do this sometimes, and you load them into your DAW and mix away but the end result is always a 2-channel stereo file.

The 70D only has the stereo out, and regardless of the number of tracks you have or the configuration of them, that output is being fed a 2-channel stereo mixdown of everything.  It's not possible to do what you're suggesting direct from the 70D, but I don't see why you'd want to.

Thanks for your reply. Yes, I'm trying some Quadrophonic recordings with 4 microphones that put a listener in the center of four surround speakers (which many people have in their home theaters). I have to load the 4-Track recordings into Audacity and burn it as a 4-channel Audio-DVD in order to review the recording on a multi-speaker setup.

But since writing my question, I remembered that you can play the DR70D recording back on a DR680 (which has six individual track outputs) if you modify the file or the folder that it's in -- I can't recall. I'll have to look it up.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on September 14, 2017, 08:32:00 PM
I'm not sure if this has been asked before, but for those who use the DR70D to make 4 channel recordings, what is your method for playing back those four tracks from four separate speakers? I have an A/V receiver with separate analog inputs. But the deck only has stereo out.

You're describing something like Quadrophonic, which was a fad surround-ish technique that required 4 speakers surrounding the listener.  There are certain modern surround / ambiance recording techniques that may benefit from similar playback.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but you're not making recordings such as these; you're just using two stereo mic arrays for a concert, correct?  I do this sometimes, and you load them into your DAW and mix away but the end result is always a 2-channel stereo file.

The 70D only has the stereo out, and regardless of the number of tracks you have or the configuration of them, that output is being fed a 2-channel stereo mixdown of everything.  It's not possible to do what you're suggesting direct from the 70D, but I don't see why you'd want to.

Thanks for your reply. Yes, I'm trying some Quadrophonic recordings with 4 microphones that put a listener in the center of four surround speakers (which many people have in their home theaters). I have to load the 4-Track recordings into Audacity and burn it as a 4-channel Audio-DVD in order to review the recording on a multi-speaker setup.

But since writing my question, I remembered that you can play the DR70D recording back on a DR680 (which has six individual track outputs) if you modify the file or the folder that it's in -- I can't recall. I'll have to look it up.

Hmm, OK - I didn't expect that's what you were really doing!  Pardon me for making the assumption.  What mics and array are you using?  Something like an IRT Cross?  Also, this has to be tricky on the 70D with the lack of ganged gain controls.

The DVD-A solution is what I was thinking you'd have to do, or some other kind of surround encoding.  I didn't know about the 680 workaround.  If you have one of those, wouldn't that be easier to use for this kind of recording since you'd have the channel ganging?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: dogmusic on September 15, 2017, 04:24:10 PM
I'm not sure if this has been asked before, but for those who use the DR70D to make 4 channel recordings, what is your method for playing back those four tracks from four separate speakers? I have an A/V receiver with separate analog inputs. But the deck only has stereo out.

You're describing something like Quadrophonic, which was a fad surround-ish technique that required 4 speakers surrounding the listener.  There are certain modern surround / ambiance recording techniques that may benefit from similar playback.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but you're not making recordings such as these; you're just using two stereo mic arrays for a concert, correct?  I do this sometimes, and you load them into your DAW and mix away but the end result is always a 2-channel stereo file.

The 70D only has the stereo out, and regardless of the number of tracks you have or the configuration of them, that output is being fed a 2-channel stereo mixdown of everything.  It's not possible to do what you're suggesting direct from the 70D, but I don't see why you'd want to.

Thanks for your reply. Yes, I'm trying some Quadrophonic recordings with 4 microphones that put a listener in the center of four surround speakers (which many people have in their home theaters). I have to load the 4-Track recordings into Audacity and burn it as a 4-channel Audio-DVD in order to review the recording on a multi-speaker setup.

But since writing my question, I remembered that you can play the DR70D recording back on a DR680 (which has six individual track outputs) if you modify the file or the folder that it's in -- I can't recall. I'll have to look it up.

Hmm, OK - I didn't expect that's what you were really doing!  Pardon me for making the assumption.  What mics and array are you using?  Something like an IRT Cross?  Also, this has to be tricky on the 70D with the lack of ganged gain controls.

The DVD-A solution is what I was thinking you'd have to do, or some other kind of surround encoding.  I didn't know about the 680 workaround.  If you have one of those, wouldn't that be easier to use for this kind of recording since you'd have the channel ganging?

All my good mics are only pairs and I wanted to have four mics of the same brand and model. I bought four used Behringer B-5 mics being sold locally for $40 each, as I figured it would be a good place to start experimenting, not worrying too much about the quality. Also, the B-5's have both omni and card capsules, so that was another option to be able to work with.

They are mounted in a square, about 8 inches apart, aimed outwards from each corner.

I'm currently just recording outdoors, so it's easy to get a fairly equal level on all channels because the usual basic ambient noise is about the same loudness in all directions.

Using the DR680 would of course be the best method, but it's currently in a semi-permanent installation for recording my piano. So rather than remove it for these trials, I figured I'd use the DR70D (which I enjoy using).
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Chris K on September 22, 2017, 02:45:11 PM
Hey all...So dusted off the rig the other night and ran preamp RCA out> RCA-to-XLR cable> 70D XLR in using the XLR/TRS input on ch1&2, Input gain was LINE in the Input menu.

I was only about 20-25 feet from the stage/stacks. I set the Gain at low. Levels knobs were jacked with low peak levels, so I changed gain to mid. It didn't really seem to make much difference levels wise...maybe I was expecting a more drastic change. I let it ride and fixed levels in post.

I am wondering if I should have set the input gain to MIC instead of line? Or should have used RCA>TRS or RCA>3.5mm cable instead?

So...Waddaya think I did wrong?  ;D
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: lsd2525 on September 22, 2017, 04:35:27 PM
Hey all...So dusted off the rig the other night and ran preamp RCA out> RCA-to-XLR cable> 70D XLR in using the XLR/TRS input on ch1&2, Input gain was LINE in the Input menu.

I was only about 20-25 feet from the stage/stacks. I set the Gain at low. Levels knobs were jacked with low peak levels, so I changed gain to mid. It didn't really seem to make much difference levels wise...maybe I was expecting a more drastic change. I let it ride and fixed levels in post.

I am wondering if I should have set the input gain to MIC instead of line? Or should have used RCA>TRS or RCA>3.5mm cable instead?

So...Waddaya think I did wrong?  ;D

99% sure that gain control only works with MIC. I believe it doesn't do anything with LINE
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on September 22, 2017, 04:51:22 PM
yep!  see post about it on last page.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Chris K on September 22, 2017, 06:51:36 PM
F me...I actually switched it from mic to line.

Live and learn. Wasn't a lost cause.Recording came out ok...lower levels then I wanted but I boosted them in post.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on September 22, 2017, 08:24:47 PM
F me...I actually switched it from mic to line.

Live and learn. Wasn't a lost cause.Recording came out ok...lower levels then I wanted but I boosted them in post.

I'm curious: what preamp are you using?  I think most of us don't use external pres with the 70D the built-ins are quite good.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on September 22, 2017, 11:38:34 PM
I am wondering if I should have set the input gain to MIC instead of line? Or should have used RCA>TRS or RCA>3.5mm cable instead?
Running unbalanced signal into balanced XLR might make it come out -6dB lower than if you just stuck with unbalanced. (Tip-Sleeve instead of Tip-Ring-Sleeve perhaps?)
But I'm not exactly sure how the DR70D handles this, or if depends on the wiring of the unbalanced adaptor cable...
 ???  :hmmm:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Chris K on September 23, 2017, 12:45:37 PM

I'm curious: what preamp are you using?  I think most of us don't use external pres with the 70D the built-ins are quite good.

JK Labs DVC...my AKG active setup....I usually run this with the M10, but left it at home so ran the 70D. I have used a rca/3.5mm cable into the external in on the 70D before. Its been a while since I used the rca/xlr cable into the 70D.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Chris K on September 23, 2017, 12:51:50 PM
I am wondering if I should have set the input gain to MIC instead of line? Or should have used RCA>TRS or RCA>3.5mm cable instead?
Running unbalanced signal into balanced XLR might make it come out -6dB lower than if you just stuck with unbalanced. (Tip-Sleeve instead of Tip-Ring-Sleeve perhaps?)
But I'm not exactly sure how the DR70D handles this, or if depends on the wiring of the unbalanced adaptor cable...
 ???  :hmmm:

RCA to whatever is going to be unbalanced. I think I should have left the setting at MIC instead of Line....so long as there is no phantom power you should be able to control levels with the level knobs when in MIC position. I guess I have some experimenting to do to make sure.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on September 23, 2017, 12:54:38 PM
I run the Femto in front of mine.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on October 21, 2017, 01:37:22 PM
Question -

The last two times I have recorded this week, after a long duration (2 hrs - 15 Minutes ish spot last night) my recording stopped automatically and restarted in a new track file. Is there a setting I need to adjust for this so it doesn't stop and re-record without me pushing any buttons ?

I was recording in 24 bit / 44.1 khz - Plenty of room on the sd card, and my external battery was fully charged and charging the unit. It was an intertwining PTF and SMS sets with no intermission. So I was surprised to see it had automatically started a 2nd recorded file after I checked on it halfway through the show.

thanks.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on October 21, 2017, 02:00:08 PM
Question -

The last two times I have recorded this week, after a long duration (2 hrs - 15 Minutes ish spot last night) my recording stopped automatically and restarted in a new track file. Is there a setting I need to adjust for this so it doesn't stop and re-record without me pushing any buttons ?

I was recording in 24 bit / 44.1 khz - Plenty of room on the sd card, and my external battery was fully charged and charging the unit. It was an intertwining PTF and SMS sets with no intermission. So I was surprised to see it had automatically started a 2nd recorded file after I checked on it halfway through the show.

thanks.

It has nothing to do with the recorder.  WAV files are limited to 2GB, which at 24/44.1 would get you about 2:12 record time.
http://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/audio-recording-calculator (http://www.sounddevices.com/tech-notes/audio-recording-calculator) (set to 2 GB, 24bit, 48 kHz to see where I got this)
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=52081.0 (http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=52081.0)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on October 21, 2017, 02:06:31 PM
^^ Ahhh Gotcha, thanks !
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: aaronji on October 21, 2017, 11:32:43 PM
The file size limit for WAV is 4 GB, although many recorders split at 2 GB. As I recall, this is a holdover from older FAT systems. Some recorders, such as the Marantz PMD-620/661 and SD MixPre-3/6 (and the 7-series, I think) and others, allow 4 GB splits...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: xjsb125 on October 23, 2017, 10:10:30 PM
I took my deck out for use the first time this past weekend. Important lesson I learned: If the power source runs out, the unit will not detect it and write the files before shutting down. Instead, it will shut down and your filles will float off into digital never land. :banging head:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on October 23, 2017, 10:51:05 PM
The file size limit for WAV is 4 GB, although many recorders split at 2 GB. As I recall, this is a holdover from older FAT systems. Some recorders, such as the Marantz PMD-620/661 and SD MixPre-3/6 (and the 7-series, I think) and others, allow 4 GB splits...
One way to get longer files without exceeding the 4GB limit is to record in "dual mono" instead of stereo for each track pair. Then each mono file can go over four hours at 24 bit, before it hits the limit and requires a new file...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: m4granger on January 07, 2018, 02:25:32 AM
I find the headphone monitoring level to be quite low - for my old ears anyway.
Does anyone have a simple and easy solution I could try?

Thanks for any thoughts.
Mark
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on January 07, 2018, 08:04:15 AM
I find the headphone monitoring level to be quite low - for my old ears anyway.
Does anyone have a simple and easy solution I could try?

Thanks for any thoughts.
Mark

I think it's just a weak headphone output, unfortunately.  I have to crank mine when monitoring with my Etymotic in-ears.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Ronmac on January 07, 2018, 09:13:53 AM
Yes, it is a very weak output from the HP out.

I need to keep the headphone out maxed when recording dialogue at -18~-12 to get above ambient noise levels. If I am in a noisy environment I sometimes need to connect the line out to my MixPre and use the HP out from that.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Cheesecadet on January 07, 2018, 10:03:50 AM
You could try a cheap external hp amp in between dr70d and phones
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: m4granger on January 07, 2018, 03:51:41 PM
Thanks for the responses.
I will look up some portable headphone amps.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Claus on January 09, 2018, 08:36:55 PM
For headphone monitoring, I use this:

https://www.amazon.com/TOPPING-NX2-Ultra-Portable-Amplifier/dp/B00T5I60QQ (https://www.amazon.com/TOPPING-NX2-Ultra-Portable-Amplifier/dp/B00T5I60QQ)

It is slim, rechargeable, sounds good and has enough power for field monitoring. I have it Velcro'ed to the top of my recorder with a short mini cable running from "line out" on the 70 to the input of the Topping:

(https://i.imgur.com/WhBepyFb.jpg)

Claus.

Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on February 12, 2018, 06:20:52 AM
Hi All,

m4granger alerted me that there is a v1.15 firmware update on the Tascam EU site (https://www.tascam.eu/en/downloads/current/DR-70D).  This was posted on October 16, 2017, yet the USA site still only shows 1.14. 

The release notes do not say anything other than "Operation stability has been improved."
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Blakeq on February 19, 2018, 10:52:20 PM
Anyone using the new firmware yet and care to share their experience?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: malow on February 19, 2018, 11:07:09 PM
i installed, and the only thing i perceived is a few glitches in the menu when activating phantom power. if you activate and confirm quickly, the screen became a little garbled and it ask twice to confirm phantom power. if you do it slowly, no problem

so, if you are not having problems with 1.14, i suggest you keep it...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on February 20, 2018, 10:39:12 AM
Used my Tascam 70D over the weekend and noticed some clips during a few songs....luckily it was just a local band I've recorded many times before.

I re-formattted the SD card that I've used successfully many times before, is there anything else that might lead to this annoyance ?

https://archive.org/details/TheMightyManatees2018-02-16.aud.matrix.flac16

I occasionally click the battery pack button to make sure the signal is strong to the unit (that I position on top of the recorder) but I only did this a few times, and I noticed almost a clip in each song.

any advice, thanks.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: heathen on February 20, 2018, 10:49:36 AM
Maybe try using an entirely different card?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on February 20, 2018, 03:47:19 PM
Maybe try using an entirely different card?

Yeah probably a good idea, going to splurge on a new one for peace of mind later this week.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: buckster on February 21, 2018, 12:30:53 PM
I re-formattted the SD card that I've used successfully many times before, is there anything else that might lead to this annoyance ?
Rich - did you use the "official" SD Card Formatter??? 

https://www.sdcard.org/downloads/formatter_4/
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on February 21, 2018, 08:11:29 PM
I re-formattted the SD card that I've used successfully many times before, is there anything else that might lead to this annoyance ?
Rich - did you use the "official" SD Card Formatter??? 

https://www.sdcard.org/downloads/formatter_4/

+1 to this.  Do an "Erase Over Write" format to be sure.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Walstib62 on February 21, 2018, 10:59:18 PM
Used my Tascam 70D over the weekend and noticed some clips during a few songs....luckily it was just a local band I've recorded many times before.

I re-formattted the SD card that I've used successfully many times before, is there anything else that might lead to this annoyance ?

https://archive.org/details/TheMightyManatees2018-02-16.aud.matrix.flac16

I occasionally click the battery pack button to make sure the signal is strong to the unit (that I position on top of the recorder) but I only did this a few times, and I noticed almost a clip in each song.

any advice, thanks.

When you say "clip" what exactly do you mean? Signal clipping at peak amplitude??
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on February 23, 2018, 10:58:14 AM
Used my Tascam 70D over the weekend and noticed some clips during a few songs....luckily it was just a local band I've recorded many times before.

I re-formattted the SD card that I've used successfully many times before, is there anything else that might lead to this annoyance ?

https://archive.org/details/TheMightyManatees2018-02-16.aud.matrix.flac16

I occasionally click the battery pack button to make sure the signal is strong to the unit (that I position on top of the recorder) but I only did this a few times, and I noticed almost a clip in each song.

any advice, thanks.

When you say "clip" what exactly do you mean? Signal clipping at peak amplitude??

3:07 mark of track 3 and then again at 5:48 mark of track 3 for example. This clipping noise that popped up recently, never experienced before using this deck or card.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: malow on February 23, 2018, 01:28:38 PM
sounds like a analog pop (DC offset spike) and not a digital one (so the card likely is not the problem)

like the input capacitor was shorted for a millisecond. or the input was disconnected. maybe the problem was where the sound came from? (don't know if you use the internal mics/condenser mics/sound from a mixer board)

if you can, i think you can test your recorder by putting 4 condenser mics with phantom on them, and let them record silence for as long as you can. and see if the "pop" happens with your recorder alone

https://www.gearslutz.com/board/mastering-forum/492746-what-causes-bursts-dc-offset.html
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: malow on March 11, 2018, 06:34:05 AM
Used my Tascam 70D over the weekend and noticed some clips during a few songs....
guess what? i got it today that too!

reason? bad connectors/bad mixing board!

to give you a "picture", this was the mixer model:

(http://imgcache.clasificadosonline.com//PP/M/2017/4/21/421201750227PMncmtrqnk_Big.jpg)

this SKP brand is the crap of the crap. this mixer had the entire left channel NOT WORKING AT ALL. AUX bus NOT WORKING AT ALL. half of the inputs the audio got distorted (i had to test for the "audio guy" to know witch ones worked properly). the connectors where very loose and any slight wiggle i got the classic 60hz hum on the output..  they used mics with XLR > TS cables and connected in the LINE-IN jack ( :banging head: ) (so now you can see the whole picture)

to be clear, my TS connectors are brand new and high quality. no problems in my cables whatsoever. as i got separated tracks, the problem happened in the track recorded audio from the headphone output (was using PFL for separated tracks as AUX was not working). the pops happened when they tried to connect a keyboard audio output in the mixer.

picture and audio with the problem attached...

so, you can be sure, the problem is not on this recorder...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on March 18, 2018, 12:20:02 PM
I'm considering pulling the trigger on the SanDisk SDSDXPA-064G 64gb SD card for my DR-70D. Amazon has it for $39.50 right now.

Any of you folks used this particular card?

It's on the latest approved media list, but I'm always a little worried for some reason....thanks for any input or even any other recommendations you might have.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on March 28, 2018, 09:07:16 PM
I'm considering pulling the trigger on the SanDisk SDSDXPA-064G 64gb SD card for my DR-70D. Amazon has it for $39.50 right now.

Any of you folks used this particular card?

It's on the latest approved media list, but I'm always a little worried for some reason....thanks for any input or even any other recommendations you might have.
Bought the SDSDXPA-064G card and then did the search here (bass ackwards huh?) and found that at least Bean couldn't be happier with this particular card. So I'll start testing it soon and see what happens. Will report back if I experience anything unexpected.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on March 28, 2018, 10:13:51 PM
I'm considering pulling the trigger on the SanDisk SDSDXPA-064G 64gb SD card for my DR-70D. Amazon has it for $39.50 right now.

Any of you folks used this particular card?

It's on the latest approved media list, but I'm always a little worried for some reason....thanks for any input or even any other recommendations you might have.
Bought the SDSDXPA-064G card and then did the search here (bass ackwards huh?) and found that at least Bean couldn't be happier with this particular card. So I'll start testing it soon and see what happens. Will report back if I experience anything unexpected.
Well I'm back. The card was/is a dud! The DR-70D would not accept it. First message was "MBR Error". Next message was "Invalid Card / Change Card".
So I tried it in my PC and formatting failed. Tried it in the PC using SD Card Formatter program and that failed.
It's already packaged back up and will be in the mail back to Amazon for full refund in the morning....darn.
I guess I didn't heed the "fulfilled by" warning when purchasing thru Amazon. It was not fulfilled by them....my bad.  >:(
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on March 28, 2018, 10:33:27 PM
I'm considering pulling the trigger on the SanDisk SDSDXPA-064G 64gb SD card for my DR-70D. Amazon has it for $39.50 right now.

Any of you folks used this particular card?

It's on the latest approved media list, but I'm always a little worried for some reason....thanks for any input or even any other recommendations you might have.
Bought the SDSDXPA-064G card and then did the search here (bass ackwards huh?) and found that at least Bean couldn't be happier with this particular card. So I'll start testing it soon and see what happens. Will report back if I experience anything unexpected.
Well I'm back. The card was/is a dud! The DR-70D would not accept it. First message was "MBR Error". Next message was "Invalid Card / Change Card".
So I tried it in my PC and formatting failed. Tried it in the PC using SD Card Formatter program and that failed.
It's already packaged back up and will be in the mail back to Amazon for full refund in the morning....darn.
I guess I didn't heed the "fulfilled by" warning when purchasing thru Amazon. It was not fulfilled by them....my bad.  >:(

Sorry to hear you ran into a possible counterfeit.  They are rampant.  For flash memory, you always need to make sure it is coming from an authorized dealer.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on March 28, 2018, 10:59:17 PM
I'm considering pulling the trigger on the SanDisk SDSDXPA-064G 64gb SD card for my DR-70D. Amazon has it for $39.50 right now.

Any of you folks used this particular card?

It's on the latest approved media list, but I'm always a little worried for some reason....thanks for any input or even any other recommendations you might have.
Bought the SDSDXPA-064G card and then did the search here (bass ackwards huh?) and found that at least Bean couldn't be happier with this particular card. So I'll start testing it soon and see what happens. Will report back if I experience anything unexpected.
Well I'm back. The card was/is a dud! The DR-70D would not accept it. First message was "MBR Error". Next message was "Invalid Card / Change Card".
So I tried it in my PC and formatting failed. Tried it in the PC using SD Card Formatter program and that failed.
It's already packaged back up and will be in the mail back to Amazon for full refund in the morning....darn.
I guess I didn't heed the "fulfilled by" warning when purchasing thru Amazon. It was not fulfilled by them....my bad.  >:(

Sorry to hear you ran into a possible counterfeit.  They are rampant.  For flash memory, you always need to make sure it is coming from an authorized dealer.
It's really frustrating. Right now I can't find even one 16, 32 or 64gb card for sale (that looks legit) from the latest Tascam approved media list.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: malow on March 28, 2018, 11:03:06 PM
I'm using a old sandisk 32GB class 2 (not on approved list). works great so far, not a single problem. latest firmware.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on March 28, 2018, 11:17:40 PM
I'm using a old sandisk 32GB class 2 (not on approved list). works great so far, not a single problem. latest firmware.
I appreciate that. My problem is the first card I ever used (not on the lists) had an issue, and I finally found a good one eventually but now need another for a second recorder.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: johnmuge on March 29, 2018, 09:00:05 AM
I know this card is not on the approved list but has been working fine in my machine with firmware vs. 13

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1164629-REG/pny_technologies_p_sdh32u195_ge_32gb_elite_sdhc_uhs_1_card.html
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: jimjazzdad on March 31, 2018, 02:40:12 PM
I have been using a SanDisk Ultra 32 GB (80MB/s). I have recorded sessions of over 3 hrs using 4 channels at 96 kHz with no issues.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on April 09, 2018, 10:03:32 AM
Quick Question - Hoping for my first soundboard patch request later this week.

If I run XLR's from Soundboard into spots 3 and 4 on the TASCAM 70D Unit, Phantom Power On or Off ? (I'm guessing off, but just thought to check).  (Running CA-14 Cards in Stereo Spots 1 and 2 for a live mix)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 09, 2018, 10:15:31 AM
Quick Question - Hoping for my first soundboard patch request later this week.

If I run XLR's from Soundboard into spots 3 and 4 on the TASCAM 70D Unit, Phantom Power On or Off ? (I'm guessing off, but just thought to check).  (Running CA-14 Cards in Stereo Spots 1 and 2 for a live mix)
Definitely phantom OFF for the soundboard feed.
Good luck!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on April 09, 2018, 10:18:42 AM
I'm using a old sandisk 32GB class 2 (not on approved list). works great so far, not a single problem. latest firmware.
I appreciate that. My problem is the first card I ever used (not on the lists) had an issue, and I finally found a good one eventually but now need another for a second recorder.
So after all my angst and worry, I found what appears to be a legit 16gb card at my local Walmart. It's the SDSDUP-016G-A46 card and it was less than $10.
I tested it all weekend and looks good so far.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Craig T on April 09, 2018, 10:24:47 AM
Quick Question - Hoping for my first soundboard patch request later this week.

If I run XLR's from Soundboard into spots 3 and 4 on the TASCAM 70D Unit, Phantom Power On or Off ? (I'm guessing off, but just thought to check).  (Running CA-14 Cards in Stereo Spots 1 and 2 for a live mix)

OFF.  Applying phantom power to line level output devices could fry them.   :facepalm:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: dogmusic on April 09, 2018, 10:26:58 AM
Quick Question - Hoping for my first soundboard patch request later this week.

If I run XLR's from Soundboard into spots 3 and 4 on the TASCAM 70D Unit, Phantom Power On or Off ? (I'm guessing off, but just thought to check).  (Running CA-14 Cards in Stereo Spots 1 and 2 for a live mix)

Off.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on April 09, 2018, 10:29:28 AM
Quick Question - Hoping for my first soundboard patch request later this week.

If I run XLR's from Soundboard into spots 3 and 4 on the TASCAM 70D Unit, Phantom Power On or Off ? (I'm guessing off, but just thought to check).  (Running CA-14 Cards in Stereo Spots 1 and 2 for a live mix)

OFF.  Applying phantom power to line level output devices could fry them.   :facepalm:

I was 98.34% sure that was the situation, thanks.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: goodcooker on April 09, 2018, 10:48:58 AM
Quick Question - Hoping for my first soundboard patch request later this week.

If I run XLR's from Soundboard into spots 3 and 4 on the TASCAM 70D Unit, Phantom Power On or Off ? (I'm guessing off, but just thought to check).  (Running CA-14 Cards in Stereo Spots 1 and 2 for a live mix)

OFF.  Applying phantom power to line level output devices could fry them.   :facepalm:

I was 98.34% sure that was the situation, thanks.

Double check this before you plug in!! You do not want to be the guy who asks for a board patch then burns up the console before the show starts. Most boards nowadays have blocking capacitors to stop any power from flowing back into the outputs but still better to be safe and sure.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: ButchAlmberg on July 24, 2018, 04:06:20 PM
I've been searching these threads for an hour now so I apologize, but does anyone have a link/suggestion for a 90 degree (at the deck) power cable for the DR-70D? The ones I'm coming across are cheap mass produced pieces of crap and I'd like to buy something that is of better quality.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: heathen on July 24, 2018, 04:21:33 PM
I've been searching these threads for an hour now so I apologize, but does anyone have a link/suggestion for a 90 degree (at the deck) power cable for the DR-70D? The ones I'm coming across are cheap mass produced pieces of crap and I'd like to buy something that is of better quality.
Your best bet might be getting a custom cable made by one of the resident cable-makers.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: jbell on July 24, 2018, 06:15:47 PM
I've got one I could send for shipping cost, but it is a cheap mass produced one!

I've been searching these threads for an hour now so I apologize, but does anyone have a link/suggestion for a 90 degree (at the deck) power cable for the DR-70D? The ones I'm coming across are cheap mass produced pieces of crap and I'd like to buy something that is of better quality.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: IronFilm on July 25, 2018, 12:38:48 AM
I'm using a old sandisk 32GB class 2 (not on approved list). works great so far, not a single problem. latest firmware.

Class 2? Wow, that is OLD

Personally I wouldn't want to risk a card like that....
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on July 25, 2018, 08:43:07 AM
I've been searching these threads for an hour now so I apologize, but does anyone have a link/suggestion for a 90 degree (at the deck) power cable for the DR-70D? The ones I'm coming across are cheap mass produced pieces of crap and I'd like to buy something that is of better quality.
I roll with cheapies. Bought 5 for like $5. One was bad, snipped it in half to be sure I didn't use it.


Keep a spare in the bag.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: malow on July 26, 2018, 01:29:39 AM
Class 2? Wow, that is OLD

Personally I wouldn't want to risk a card like that....

well, is a card with very low use, and not too old. (i got as backup when i had 32gb class 10 cards, but they where a bit high priced - again, im in brazil, even SD cards are expensive...)

every few months i test all my cards, using test software, to make sure they do not have any bad sector/error.

but again, any card can die any moment...  and my DR-70D have a backup recorder on it, so, im safe  :coolguy:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on July 26, 2018, 08:48:20 PM
I think you're playing with fire using untested, cheap cards from unknown sources.  There are tons of counterfeits out there.  Buy major name brands from authorized resellers.

Whenever possible, use media tested and approved by the manufacturer of your audio recorder.  Not just with this one, but any recorder.  Given the history of the DR-70D being "picky" with SD cards in previous firmware, that really should be everyone's default position.

Bear in mind that audio recording uses an SD card very differently than video or photo recording, but those last two are where all the class / speed ratings come from.  SD card manufacturers generally don't test for audio-exclusive applications.  Cameras write data to SD cards in bursts.  In contrast, audio recorders are more or less writing continuously, and their memory buffer is not always up to snuff to handle a card that can't handle continuous random writes (again, something the card manufacturers don't test for) and so you get dropouts.  This is why sometimes cards that have very high speed ratings test might perform poorly in audio recorders. 

A representative from Tascam who used to frequent this board made this point quite clearly, and was unfortunately attacked for trying to educate people.

Here's some evidence and further explanation to back this up from someone who makes an embedded audio device, and wrote their own utility to test cards for audio performance.  Notice that some of the lower "class" cards worked whereas some of the higher ones did not.
https://robertsonics.com/microsd-cards-for-audio/ (https://robertsonics.com/microsd-cards-for-audio/)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: malow on July 26, 2018, 09:17:43 PM
well, it is a "cheap" card, but it is a sandisk card, from a reputable seller. (we don't have authorized resellers here i believe)

and of course, i tested extensively before any "real world" usage.

luckly, the dr-70d does appear to have a decent buffer, so it writes for about 1/4 of a second every second (using 4 channels 24bit/48khz) on my "slow" card

so, audio is very low-demanding on the card speeds. and for what i see, the incompatibilities where never about speed, but bad design/firmware on the 70D, that also i believe was somehow "fixed" on later firmware updates (i got the recorder after the initial problems on older firmwares). maybe if i record in 96/24, a faster card would be wise.

i tested it with all brands/models of cards i have, and all of them worked perfectly. even a few micro-sd on adapter.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on July 26, 2018, 10:12:18 PM

If you have the current firmware, you MIGHT be alright. Tascam never admitted that there was a problem in the old firmware, so they never claimed that they fixed anything.
I don't recall hearing many folks report the "classic problem" since the most recent firmware release, however.


from http://www.tascam.com/product/dr-70d/downloads/ (http://www.tascam.com/product/dr-70d/downloads/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_b70.zip)
Firmware V1.14 - 908.98 KB
dr-70d_b70.zip

well, it is a "cheap" card, but it is a sandisk card, from a reputable seller. (we don't have authorized resellers here i believe)

and of course, i tested extensively before any "real world" usage.

luckly, the dr-70d does appear to have a decent buffer, so it writes for about 1/4 of a second every second (using 4 channels 24bit/48khz) on my "slow" card

so, audio is very low-demanding on the card speeds. and for what i see, the incompatibilities where never about speed, but bad design/firmware on the 70D, that also i believe was somehow "fixed" on later firmware updates (i got the recorder after the initial problems on older firmwares). maybe if i record in 96/24, a faster card would be wise.

i tested it with all brands/models of cards i have, and all of them worked perfectly. even a few micro-sd on adapter.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: IronFilm on July 27, 2018, 07:56:53 AM

but again, any card can die any moment...  and my DR-70D have a backup recorder on it, so, im safe  :coolguy:

It is a back up safety track (still being written to the same card), not a back up dual card recording like say the Zoom F4/F8/F8n and other higher end recorders do
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: goodcooker on July 27, 2018, 12:39:27 PM

but again, any card can die any moment...  and my DR-70D have a backup recorder on it, so, im safe  :coolguy:

It is a back up safety track, not a back up dual card recording like say the Zoom F4/F8/F8n and other higher end recorders do

He actually has a separate recorder mounted to it somehow if I remember correctly seeing the photos of it when he posted pics of his battery modification.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: malow on July 27, 2018, 02:18:44 PM
He actually has a separate recorder mounted to it somehow if I remember correctly seeing the photos of it when he posted pics of his battery modification.

yeap! ;)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: relefunt on July 27, 2018, 03:41:24 PM
.... and they called it “The Turducken”
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: anodyne33 on October 08, 2018, 09:14:19 AM
I didn't find anything poking around. Has anybody tried the medium Amazon DSLR bag with a 70? I bought the large and it's plenty of room. I just can't take the giant form factor. The smaller one is only losing an inch in depth so I may poke with one before I hack the top and pockets off the large and see if anybody can use it as it.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on October 07, 2019, 02:07:56 PM
Bumping this thread with a revised link to find the ever-so-important APPROVED MEDIA LIST that is no longer linked from Tascam's main page for this discontinued recording device.
https://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20151006.pdf
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on October 07, 2019, 06:21:34 PM
Bumping this thread with a revised link to find the ever-so-important APPROVED MEDIA LIST that is no longer linked from Tascam's main page for this discontinued recording device.
https://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20151006.pdf

Approved media list is certainly necessary for this recorder.  I feel bad for SD MixPre owners who are still waiting for such a list.

Discontinued?  New ones are still for sale at all the usual places for $300.

Shameless Plug: I have my modded DR-70D up for sale in the YS right now for considerably less, and it includes a 100% reliable SD card, among other things.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: aaronji on October 08, 2019, 07:51:29 AM
I feel bad for SD MixPre owners who are still waiting for such a list.

I wouldn't shed too many tears for the MixPre users. There has been a lot of sound and fury with respect to cards, but almost entirely concerning stress tests with eight channels recorded at 24-bit 192 kHz. At this point, though, many people have recorded a ton of shows with fewer channels (very few use the L/R mix, for example) and more reasonable sampling rates using basically every type of card with no problems. That's not to say that SD shouldn't make a list of cards that can pass the stress test, but it hasn't been much of a real world problem for tapers...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on October 08, 2019, 08:56:48 AM
Bumping this thread with a revised link to find the ever-so-important APPROVED MEDIA LIST that is no longer linked from Tascam's main page for this discontinued recording device.
https://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/867/dr-70d_tested_media_list_20151006.pdf
Here's a more recent Approved Media List, I can only ever seem to find the 16gb cards on it.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Gordon on October 08, 2019, 09:18:40 AM
I feel bad for SD MixPre owners who are still waiting for such a list.

I wouldn't shed too many tears for the MixPre users. There has been a lot of sound and fury with respect to cards, but almost entirely concerning stress tests with eight channels recorded at 24-bit 192 kHz. At this point, though, many people have recorded a ton of shows with fewer channels (very few use the L/R mix, for example) and more reasonable sampling rates using basically every type of card with no problems. That's not to say that SD shouldn't make a list of cards that can pass the stress test, but it hasn't been much of a real world problem for tapers...


 :clapping: :clapping: :clapping: :clapping:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on October 08, 2019, 04:53:43 PM
I feel bad for SD MixPre owners who are still waiting for such a list.

I wouldn't shed too many tears for the MixPre users. There has been a lot of sound and fury with respect to cards, but almost entirely concerning stress tests with eight channels recorded at 24-bit 192 kHz. At this point, though, many people have recorded a ton of shows with fewer channels (very few use the L/R mix, for example) and more reasonable sampling rates using basically every type of card with no problems. That's not to say that SD shouldn't make a list of cards that can pass the stress test, but it hasn't been much of a real world problem for tapers...

Gotcha.  I don't own one of those, so I have no horse in this race.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on October 10, 2019, 01:40:56 AM
Gotcha.  I don't own one of those, so I have no horse in this race.
I have both. I should probably do a BBB claim on SD just to be even-handed, but mine is working at the moment, now that I sent the ONE CARD THAT WAS THE RIGHT KIND BUT IT FAILED back to the vendor and opened the other one I bought at the same time.
Note to self: possible BBB claim later...
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: IMPigpen on September 29, 2020, 01:20:12 PM
So I just picked up a brand new DR-70d at 1/2 price.  Been running a DR-60dmkII for 3 years but for the price decided to grab it for the 4 XLR inputs and phantom power.   So I went to look for an approved card and I saw that Tascam has just updated their list on 09/15/2020 with new Sony and Toshiba 32, 64, and 128GB cards.   Figured I'd pass it along:

https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf (https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: billydee on September 29, 2020, 01:40:20 PM
So I just picked up a brand new DR-70d at 1/2 price.  Been running a DR-60dmkII for 3 years but for the price decided to grab it for the 4 XLR inputs and phantom power.   So I went to look for an approved card and I saw that Tascam has just updated their list on 09/15/2020 with new Sony and Toshiba 32, 64, and 128GB cards.   Figured I'd pass it along:

https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf (https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf)
Thanks for the updated list, those cards were getting hard to find.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on September 29, 2020, 03:51:57 PM
So I just picked up a brand new DR-70d at 1/2 price.  Been running a DR-60dmkII for 3 years but for the price decided to grab it for the 4 XLR inputs and phantom power.   So I went to look for an approved card and I saw that Tascam has just updated their list on 09/15/2020 with new Sony and Toshiba 32, 64, and 128GB cards.   Figured I'd pass it along:

https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf (https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf)
Thanks for the updated list, those cards were getting hard to find.
Holy cow, they updated it!
Figures that there are still only two good options for a 128 GB card, and the new Sony Tough is over $200 retails right now.




SF-G128T
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on September 30, 2020, 06:42:19 AM
So I just picked up a brand new DR-70d at 1/2 price.  Been running a DR-60dmkII for 3 years but for the price decided to grab it for the 4 XLR inputs and phantom power.   So I went to look for an approved card and I saw that Tascam has just updated their list on 09/15/2020 with new Sony and Toshiba 32, 64, and 128GB cards.   Figured I'd pass it along:

https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf (https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf)

That gave me reason to update the DR-70D FAQ (https://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=172795.0) for the first time in two years.  Thanks!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: audBall on September 30, 2020, 09:02:26 AM
^ lol, before I saw your post I was thinking, "gee, I hope Volt updates the FAQ".  And I don't even own the DR70 anymore. Solid commitment!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: IMPigpen on September 30, 2020, 10:01:51 AM
So I just picked up a brand new DR-70d at 1/2 price.  Been running a DR-60dmkII for 3 years but for the price decided to grab it for the 4 XLR inputs and phantom power.   So I went to look for an approved card and I saw that Tascam has just updated their list on 09/15/2020 with new Sony and Toshiba 32, 64, and 128GB cards.   Figured I'd pass it along:

https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf (https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf)

That gave me reason to update the DR-70D FAQ (https://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=172795.0) for the first time in two years.  Thanks!

Glad to bring a "dead" topic back to life with some actual relevant content!  haha.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on October 01, 2020, 07:05:08 AM
^ lol, before I saw your post I was thinking, "gee, I hope Volt updates the FAQ".  And I don't even own the DR70 anymore. Solid commitment!

I sold mine a long time ago as well.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on October 01, 2020, 02:48:17 PM
^ lol, before I saw your post I was thinking, "gee, I hope Volt updates the FAQ".  And I don't even own the DR70 anymore. Solid commitment!
I sold mine a long time ago as well.
I bought a Sound Devices MixPre6 to replace the DR70D, but the sound devices branded cards failed in it a couple times.
Now I use the Tascam WHEN I NEED A RELIABLE DECK and don't require all 6 inputs.
The irony is NOT lost on me.
 :smash: :smash: :smash:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: heva on October 01, 2020, 03:33:25 PM
A bit OT, but Tascam posted about dr70d on phasebook, where I dropped a reaction when they’ll release 32bit float gear.
Response: “in the very near future”

Interesting, fwiw.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: fireonshakedwnstreet on October 02, 2020, 02:10:27 AM
Would you look at that! I love this little thing and will pick up another card.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: malow on January 31, 2021, 01:17:54 AM
can you post the files somewhere so we can take a look at it? like wetransfer?
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: IronFilm on February 09, 2021, 12:08:03 AM
A bit OT, but Tascam posted about dr70d on phasebook, where I dropped a reaction when they’ll release 32bit float gear.
Response: “in the very near future”

Interesting, fwiw.

WOW!!! :-o

Maybe Tascam isn't totally dead, or at least AWOL, after all.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Charliebrm on May 05, 2021, 11:38:27 AM
I found myself back at Taperssection for information on other matters and popped in to the DR-70D thread in case I missed anything. I wasn't a registered user until yesterday.
For the record I live in Ontario, Canada. I bought a DR-40 in 2016 as the affordable unit to at least get me portable to record mostly acoustic electric performers in a small restaurant; not for much else at the time but my ambition has always been to include video work and I've never been satisfied with built in mics and boom mics are either outrageously priced or low priced bad jokes. I kept my eyes out for a DR-60D, but then coveted the DR-70D for the extra channels and the much superior IMO form factor and interface.

In 2019 I scored a DR-70D for C$100 including a one year warranty - essentially new - returned after one week by a store's regular reliable customer as not suitable for him. The timing was perfect to quick flip an open box item in their annual sale so they listed it for only $100 and I was third in line at the door in the morning and snatched it up. Happy Happy, I keep reminding myself when I use it "100 bucks!"

So thanks to all for keeping the topic alive. Any experiences with using plug in power lavalier microphones through the XLR inputs would be useful. I don't see much chat about using the Rode VXLR Pro adapter for that. Also I don't mind soldering up my own mini-box contrivances to get it done. The one 3.5mm input on the side will be limiting for my aims but I'll start there.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on May 05, 2021, 06:25:23 PM
Any experiences with using plug in power lavalier microphones through the XLR inputs would be useful. I don't see much chat about using the Rode VXLR Pro adapter for that. Also I don't mind soldering up my own mini-box contrivances to get it done. The one 3.5mm input on the side will be limiting for my aims but I'll start there.

Hello and welcome! Like many other consumer / prosumer-grade devices, the supply voltage is going to be really low on that input, as I suspect you know. I still had my DR-70D when I picked up my DPA 4061s, but Jon at Naiant studio made me a custom set of PFAs (https://naiant.com/pfa-specification/) to supply 8V to the 4061s via the XLR inputs. Jon's work is highly regarded here, and he will work with you to find whatever solution you need.

I don't know what mics you are using, but I see the VXLR Pro only supplies 4V. That hardly seems worth spending any money on when the DR-70D supplies somewhere around 3V (I'm not 100% on that). If that's all your mics are spec'd for, then just stick with the built-in. Otherwise, I recommend the PFA / Naiant route.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Chanher on August 08, 2021, 10:52:02 PM
Summer 2021 update on my DR70D that I bought in June off ebay for $179

Very pleased. I've put it through it's paces and it has exceeded it's price point. Best suited for people wanting to experiment with 4 channel mic / sbd+aud without having to delve into serious $$.

It came with the latest firmware installed (1.15) and an old class 4 32gig Sandisk SD card. I did about 4 aud + sbd mixes at 24/48 and another 3 shows of 2 channel at853Rx hypers > at8533x  > XLR 24/96 with no errors. Long sets recording multiple bands and it went well.

I got a bigger card off the Tascam media list: SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I off amazon.
I 've done 4 living room recordings 4 channels at 24/96, about 7 hours long, with no errors. Just did a weekend of local shows and some onstage jazz groups and they went well.

Observations:
-Very small.
-It didn't take me too long to figure out the menu/settings but it was a bit redundant and had some poorly named settings. Expect to spend a little time checking the actual manual. After a couple living room tests and 10 minutes actually studying the manual I felt comfortable.
-Preamps sounds good, no more no less.
-USB power is great. Doesn't draw too much power (expect 4 channels w phantom to draw more). I recommend a right angle micro USB charging cable on both ends.
-Right angle XLR stubby cables are good too.
-Being able to only see all 4 levels at once (and not monitor the stereo feeds independently) worked fine for me. YMMV.
-The XLR/TRS combo jacks are great.
-I'm now a fan of hypers indoors. at853Rx hypers > XLR DR70D is a small, versatile, budget friendly rig that made some shithole clubs a little more tolerable recording wise. Throw in the ability to grab a quick board patch if it's available, :coolguy:

Cons:
-Menu setup/settings not the best (see above) but not the worst IMO.
-Having XLR inputs 3 and 4 physically split on different sides of the recorder is wonky af. I had to spend an hour carving out a little custom foam pad/stilt so the stubby XLR's I already had wouldn't be strained when sitting in a Lowepro.
-Can't MONITOR channels 1+2 and 3+4 independently through headphone jack. You have to listen to the mix of everything when monitoring from the actual deck itself.
-Only being able to assign the 1/8 stereo input to channels 1+2. Means you have to use the wonky 3+4 if you use the mini plug input for a sbd patch or external pre.


It sounds like there's plenty of cases of recording errors when this unit was first released. Sounds like Tascam did a crappy job with both the release and handling of errors. While I can't say for certain if they're completely fixed, there appears to be a step in the right direction. Update to the latest firmware and stick to the Tascam media list.


Tips:
-Put together a little baggy of adapters for SBD patches. I've literally already encountered 4 different scenarios: XLR, 1/4, 1/8 headphone, and rca. This unit has a 1/8 stereo input but it runs hotter than the XLR/TRS inputs IMO and resulted in 1 sbd patch with some unavoidable clipping. (2x) Right angle 1/4 > female RCA has been my favorite since I have a super long rca cable I usually keep in my trunk.
-A little mastering on the sbd feed helps a lot IMO. VERY subtle reverb keeps it from being so dry. Expect a lot of vocal heavy mixes from your sbd patch and a little compression can help even that out a little. If the sbd feed is vocal heavy, don't mix it in too much. Just enough to sharpen up the vocals, you don't want the vocals louder than the other instruments.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: fireonshakedwnstreet on August 09, 2021, 12:11:47 AM
Definitely agree. I have two. Highly recommended. As stated above, it is definitely small. I can run the two of them with my UA-5 and MixPre in a bag with no issues. Cheap enough that you can spend that extra cash on outboard gear if so desired. In terms of gain, I have run dynamics and a ribbon (-52 and -60 sensitivity) with no issue on the mid-level setting. Will get you right at -12.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on August 09, 2021, 02:48:35 AM
It sounds like there's plenty of cases of recording errors when this unit was first released. Sounds like Tascam did a crappy job with both the release and handling of errors. While I can't say for certain if they're completely fixed, there appears to be a step in the right direction. Update to the latest firmware and stick to the Tascam media list.
Great observations and great tips.
 :cheers:
With regard to us ever being certain that the modern firmware/approved card formation will work- Tascam never actually admitted there was an issue (none of the firmware update notes specifically address it) so they never claimed to fix or not fix it, but the problem sure seems to be a thing of the past!!!!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on August 24, 2021, 08:57:39 AM
Pulling My DR-70D out of storage for some 4 track work this weekend.

Do you guys usually set the internal Gains to L or M ? Will be using it at 2 outdoor shows, set at M for now......it's been awhile with this guy.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on August 24, 2021, 11:36:18 AM
Pulling My DR-70D out of storage for some 4 track work this weekend.

Do you guys usually set the internal Gains to L or M ? Will be using it at 2 outdoor shows, set at M for now......it's been awhile with this guy.

Definitely L if you are recording anything loud, or stay at the lower range of M. Avoid H as it starts to get very noisy.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Papaphunk on August 25, 2021, 08:46:30 AM
Pulling My DR-70D out of storage for some 4 track work this weekend.

Do you guys usually set the internal Gains to L or M ? Will be using it at 2 outdoor shows, set at M for now......it's been awhile with this guy.

Definitely L if you are recording anything loud, or stay at the lower range of M. Avoid H as it starts to get very noisy.

Makes Sense, I can always amplify in audacity afterwards if needed. Thanks!
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: The Other Chris on October 22, 2021, 03:03:31 PM
Need some help, on my DR70D I'm getting an extra/duplicate file that doesn't play but is the same size of the file that does play.....Anyone run into this?   Thanks :)
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: fireonshakedwnstreet on October 22, 2021, 03:28:20 PM
Need some help, on my DR70D I'm getting an extra/duplicate file that doesn't play but is the same size of the file that does play.....Anyone run into this?   Thanks :)

That is the stereo file if you are running one channel. For example, if just channel 3 is in use and it is set to stereo it will make a blank on channel 4. I just delete in the DAW and pan the channel that recorded to center.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: The Other Chris on October 22, 2021, 11:14:29 PM
Need some help, on my DR70D I'm getting an extra/duplicate file that doesn't play but is the same size of the file that does play.....Anyone run into this?   Thanks :)

That is the stereo file if you are running one channel. For example, if just channel 3 is in use and it is set to stereo it will make a blank on channel 4. I just delete in the DAW and pan the channel that recorded to center.


Got it, so set the channels to mono so L/R create a natural stereo.  Appreciate the help :coolguy:
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on November 03, 2021, 06:05:16 PM
Tascam released a new SUPPORTED MEDIA list for the DR-70D in August 2021!
The latest additions are marked with this foul note:
*1: The performace of the media may be degraded significantly if it will be used repeatedly. ERASE FORMAT by DR-70D is recommended before use

Main page for DR-70D:
https://tascam.com/int/product/dr-70d/download (https://tascam.com/int/product/dr-70d/download)

Direct download link for PDF file:
https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf (https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf)





Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: voltronic on November 03, 2021, 08:55:11 PM
Tascam released a new SUPPORTED MEDIA list for the DR-70D in August 2021!
The latest additions are marked with this foul note:
*1: The performace of the media may be degraded significantly if it will be used repeatedly. ERASE FORMAT by DR-70D is recommended before use

Main page for DR-70D:
https://tascam.com/int/product/dr-70d/download (https://tascam.com/int/product/dr-70d/download)

Direct download link for PDF file:
https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf (https://tascam.com/downloads/media_list/TASCAM/dr-70d_tested_media_list_.pdf)

"Foul"? I call it informative.

All flash media degrades over time with use, particularly if you only do a "quick" format. That doesn't erase or overwrite the data, nor does it check for bad sectors. This is not device-specific.

https://www.partitionwizard.com/disk-recovery/quick-format-vs-full-format.html (https://www.partitionwizard.com/disk-recovery/quick-format-vs-full-format.html)

Doing a periodic full/erase format is mandatory practice for any flash media in my book.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: morst on November 16, 2021, 07:47:34 PM
The latest additions are marked with this foul note:

"Foul"? I call it informative.
Ooh, you are 100% correct. I misplaced the adjective!
Fixed this for me:
Quote

The latest foul additions are marked with this note
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: studer58 on February 05, 2022, 02:58:21 AM
I'm hoping somebody here might be able to help me with a fault in my Tascam DR70D recorder. I'm guessing it's quite a rare problem, as I haven't been able to find it discussed in other Tascam or Gearspace forums, although I haven't checked the entirety of this forum (but a search hasn't exposed it) ?

The slim Power on/Hold slide switch on my unit has suddenly lost the spring return capability .....so it is now just loose in its movement track, and therefore I'm unable to power up the unit.... as I can't hold the switch down (against the usual Spring resistance) for the required few seconds.

I've removed the lower base cover plate, closest to the switch, but the visibility is poor close to the switch, and I can't see (nor guess at) how this spring mechanism might operate: whether it's a leaf or coil spring for example ?  There was no loose spring to be seen at all.

Does anyone have familiarity with how this switch operates, and thus any suggestions of how I should tackle this fix ?

I've been able to remove the sliding finger grip from its movement track, but there's no sign of any Spring mechanism for it to work against.

The recorder was working fine prior to this, and I don't want to discard it if there's a possible repair I can make.

Thank you for any advice you might have (or any source for pursuing additional information)... with much appreciation !

Studer58
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: boomfizzle on March 17, 2022, 09:43:21 AM
I ordered the DR-70D a week ago and spent the time awaiting its delivery reading all 8 parts of this thread.  I feel like I went through all the ups and downs since its release along with everyone here, just time-shifted.  Glad to hear it sounds like FW issues are sorted and can't wait to start rolling.
+1 Team Dr-70 
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: commongrounder on March 17, 2022, 12:49:42 PM
The outer slider that is now loose has a fork on the inside that engages a spring-loaded slide switch that is soldered to the circuit board. My guess is either the fork has broken, or slipped off of the switch tang, or the switch tang itself has broken off. Clearly you want the issue to be with the outer slider, as a switch replacement will be an involved repair. When these units are disassembled, care has to be taken to engage the outer slider with the switch tang during reassembly. TASCAM uses this setup for many of its recorder models.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Phil Zone on January 18, 2023, 10:46:14 AM
I am sorry if this question has been asked but I have read here and through the manual and not found an answer.

When using the DR-70D with the channels set to line level where is the 0 DB mark for the input knobs? My preamps don't have very quantifiable level meters so I am guessing somewhere around 3 o'clock on the deck?

Thanks for the help
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: fireonshakedwnstreet on January 18, 2023, 11:50:40 AM
From the FAQ, the estimated gain ranges are:

Gain Pot Ranges:

               1.01 Firmware            1.10+ Firmware

LOW          -21 to +11 dB                -7 to +21 dB
MID               N/A                          +16 to +36 dB
HIGH        +19 to +51 dB             +31 to +51 dB
HIGH+      +31 to +63 dB             +43 to +63 dB

I used to run it at around 10-11, I think? Just a little past where the knob turns on the channel (if I remember correctly 9 o'clock). 3 o'clock you are probably adding 10db or so of gain in the latest firmware.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Phil Zone on January 18, 2023, 01:44:31 PM
From the FAQ, the estimated gain ranges are:

Gain Pot Ranges:

               1.01 Firmware            1.10+ Firmware

LOW          -21 to +11 dB                -7 to +21 dB
MID               N/A                          +16 to +36 dB
HIGH        +19 to +51 dB             +31 to +51 dB
HIGH+      +31 to +63 dB             +43 to +63 dB

I used to run it at around 10-11, I think? Just a little past where the knob turns on the channel (if I remember correctly 9 o'clock). 3 o'clock you are probably adding 10db or so of gain in the latest firmware.

I'm talking about line level not mic level... Is it the same as low perhaps? Sure doesn't seem to be that way when in use
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: fireonshakedwnstreet on January 18, 2023, 02:38:13 PM
Do'h! Yes. 3 o'clock makes sense for line.
Title: Re: Tascam DR-70D 4-channel audio recorder (Part 8)
Post by: Phil Zone on January 18, 2023, 02:42:24 PM
Do'h! Yes. 3 o'clock makes sense for line.

Okay awesome, thanks!!