Topic: Need some recorder advice

[backwhereubelong]

Mods:  I did not put this in the Yard Sale section because I don't know what I am "In Search Of".

I am looking for a recorder (SD or Compact Flash) that has RCA inputs and can record up to 24-Bit/96kHz WAV.  It doesn't have to be portable (handheld).   Any advice?

[chinariderstl]

This guy's a bit dated, but has RCA in and records up to 24-bit/192kHz using Compact Flash.

I like these Tascam decks.  I think the Oade Brothers used to offer a mod for this deck.

#  Tascam HD-P2 Portable Stereo CF Recorder
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/404262-REG/Tascam_HD_P2_HD_P2_Portable_Stereo_CF.html

HTH, Chris.

[voltronic]

I'm curious why you are set on it having RCA inputs, as that is definitely limiting your options.  If you'd be willing to just use different cables, there are options all over the place where you can record analog line in to 1/8" stereo or 1/4"/XLR combo jacks.

[backwhereubelong]

That's NICE !  I'm looking at one on eBay now.  Thanks for pointing me in a great direction.

[chinariderstl]

If interested, here's the link to the Oade Brothers mods for that deck (and others).

http://www.oade.com/digital_recorders/hard_disc_recorders/upgrades.html

[backwhereubelong]

I'm curious why you are set on it having RCA inputs, as that is definitely limiting your options.  If you'd be willing to just use different cables, there are options all over the place where you can record analog line in to 1/8" stereo or 1/4"/XLR combo jacks.

I need RCA inputs because I am wanting to transfer some cassettes in hi-resolution audio and I'm not too wild about going from RCA to 1/8" or 1/4" as I was told that they are "noisy" (I could have been given the wrong info) compared to RCA.  Or should I go RCA out (Tape Deck) to a recorder via XLR?  Which would give me the best results?  Any help would be appreciated.


My tape deck is pictured below ...

[voltronic]

I'm curious why you are set on it having RCA inputs, as that is definitely limiting your options.  If you'd be willing to just use different cables, there are options all over the place where you can record analog line in to 1/8" stereo or 1/4"/XLR combo jacks.

I need RCA inputs because I am wanting to transfer some cassettes in hi-resolution audio and I'm not too wild about going from RCA to 1/8" or 1/4" as I was told that they are "noisy" (I could have been given the wrong info) compared to RCA.  Or should I go RCA out (Tape Deck) to a recorder via XLR?  Which would give me the best results?  Any help would be appreciated.


My tape deck is pictured below ...

The cable experts here might have some more insight, but I don't see how any of those options would matter - they all sound the same to me as long as you are using a quality cable.  I run into the 1/8" line input of my M10 all the time as do many others with no issues whatsoever, and at work I use 1/8" > dual 1/4" frequently with no issues.  There are some who may tell you that having multiple channels in the same cable assembly could increase your chances for crosstalk, etc. and that separate runs are going to be superior.  I haven't had any problems with this, as long as the run isn't very long.

Nice old Pioneer deck, btw.

[backwhereubelong]

My tape deck is pictured below ...
[/quote]
Nice old Pioneer deck, btw.
[/quote]

I love the Pioneer CT-F950.  These old Pioneers are hard to beat.  I know there is a whole community of Nakamichi lovers, which I like as well, but these Pioneers are my choice.
Thanks for your advice.

[Lostbrook]

I had that exact deck (late 70's/early 80's?).  Now I remember why I loved it.  No idea what I did with it unfortunately. 

[2manyrocks]

PC interface would do that less expensively.  If 16 bit 48k is enough, even the behringer uca202 would work for 30 dollars. 

[backwhereubelong]

Good idea as I had one of those but the USB is mono ... everytime I used it the results were double mono (not true stereo).  I think this was brought up on another noticeboard.

[stevetoney]

Good idea as I had one of those but the USB is mono ... everytime I used it the results were double mono (not true stereo).  I think this was brought up on another noticeboard.

USB is a digital interface, so it's neither mono or stereo.  If what you used before wouldn't give you stereo, it was probably something other than the USB...most likely a software limitation.  Double mono isn't unusual...as long as it's two different mono channels (left and right) and your software can pan each channel; one all the way to the left and the other all the way to the right.  I use Audition and it's a piece of cake.  If you don't have any audio software for capturing and working with your digitized audio files (commonly called Digital Audio Worstation or DAW) or if whatever is packaged with the interface you get isn't sufficient, I'm pretty sure the freeware Audacity can do what you need.

[2manyrocks]

The Focusrite 2i2 meets your 24bit/96k spec.  $149 retail.  I think it comes with some DAW software, but I'd just use Audacity if all you're doing is digitizing your cassette recordings. 

I've owned a 2i2 for several years.  Works fine. 

You could get a DR60d for the same or less money.

Neither has RCA inputs.  All you need is to buy or solder up some cables with RCAs on one end for the cassette player and 1/4 plugs on the other end for the 60d or Focusrite.

[caymanreview]

i run a marantz pmd671 that has rca inputs. they are old enough they have came down in price. fairly affordable on ebay. rock solid units

[Fried Chicken Boy]

All you need is to buy or solder up some cables with RCAs on one end for the cassette player and 1/4 plugs on the other end for the 60d or Focusrite.

Or get adapters instead of a specialized cable.  A quick search found these, which will work with a regular RCA cable > http://www.amazon.com/Hosa-Cable-GPR101-Inch-Adaptor/dp/B000068O3S < but there are many others available.

[backwhereubelong]

I appreciate all the replies, but I don't see how adding all the adaptors could possibly be a good thing.  I prefer to stick with a unit that has RCA, XLR and maybe a Digital Optical input so I can use it for several sources (DAT, MiniDisc, Cassettes).  I think (for me) the initial post of the Tascam and/or Marantz unit is my best bet.  Thanks again !

[2manyrocks]

Your most affordable option is to use a 1/8 stereo to RCA cable with your M10.  It's a common cable and will work reliably for what you want to do for probably less than $5.00. 

[voltronic]

Your most affordable option is to use a 1/8 stereo to RCA cable with your M10.  It's a common cable and will work reliably for what you want to do for probably less than $5.00.

Agreed - I didn't see that you have an M10 already.  The 1/8" line in is completely solid.  If you're leery of cable quality, have one of the cable builders here make you a nice custom job.  I use Darktrain or GAKables when I'm actually out recording not just because their stuff is better quality, but also more durable.  At home or at work Hosa cables work fine for me.

[chinariderstl]

Heh.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=175225.0

[morst]

Signal flow to the inputs is a good thing. I've never noticed that adaptors affect the sound, unless they come unplugged!?

I appreciate all the replies, but I don't see how adding all the adaptors could possibly be a good thing. 

[YYZ]

Tascam DR 40 imo, you'll just need to get some 1/4">rca adaptors, then you can plug RCA cords into the inputs. The DR 40 is cheap and often on sale. I have 2 of them and have never had any serious issues, plus it has a pair of mics on it too.