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Author Topic: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)  (Read 41388 times)

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Offline yltfan

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #60 on: May 14, 2011, 04:12:38 PM »
I feel like I have to say that I still love my DR-680.
I am not convinced by reading this thread or any other thread that this recorder is a lemon.
Of course, more time will tell...

Pretty much in the same boat, here. I feel bad for the folks who are having problems, but would like a clear picture of what seems to be going on. How many bad units are we talking? 3 total? Out of how many? And are there similar issues? I have read most of the various threads, but can't keep it all straight. And does anyone have recommendations for checking things over?

(I definitely agree that Tascam needs to improve their customer service, however--one bad experience and I'm gone. A very popular vendor on here went a little crazy on me, I won't go back...)
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Offline phil_er_up

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #61 on: May 14, 2011, 04:44:30 PM »
I feel like I have to say that I still love my DR-680.
I am not convinced by reading this thread or any other thread that this recorder is a lemon.
Of course, more time will tell...

1) I agree with chuck. So far the court is still out and the verdict is not in yet. So a pre-judgement now would be unfair IMO.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2) I've had problems with channel one and spikes on my 680 and will see how it goes in the future. I bought the 3 year warranty from B&H and I guess if I had a problem I would try and go that route.

Would the bussman mod fix the XLR input spikes?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3) Want to say that I like the way the 680 is layed out and Tascam has a great design that others might follow. So Tascam can be a continued player with its customers if it takes care of us. If not someone will make another one very similiar...

Not sure if I will buy a new unit in version 1.0 anymore or until enough reviews are in...
Everyday is a gift. Enjoy each one!
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Offline acidjack

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #62 on: May 15, 2011, 12:34:31 AM »
^^ I think that 3 failed units out of a fairly small group of people (DR-680 owners on TS.com) is a pretty disturbing figure. 

I'll agree to disagree re: the design and layout.  It's alright; I don't love it.  I did like how it had 6 full channels of phantom, and how it seemed to transfer via USB much faster than the Edirol.  I can see why some people like it, but I definitely come down on the side of still being more a fan of the Edirol (assuming all other things equal, like both units working).

I was hesitant to get one in the first place because of these things, but I was swayed by both the fact that I had some specific applications that need more channels, and the positive initial reports of people on here (I was aware of the USBpre2 sync issue, but as I've noted, the deck I received would not sync with any S/PDIF signal I tried).

In any event, the unit is now on its way to Tascam.  We'll see how they handle it.
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Offline Myco

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #63 on: May 16, 2011, 07:30:20 AM »
^^ I think that 3 failed units out of a fairly small group of people (DR-680 owners on TS.com) is a pretty disturbing figure. 

I'll agree to disagree re: the design and layout.  It's alright; I don't love it.  I did like how it had 6 full channels of phantom, and how it seemed to transfer via USB much faster than the Edirol.  I can see why some people like it, but I definitely come down on the side of still being more a fan of the Edirol (assuming all other things equal, like both units working).

I was hesitant to get one in the first place because of these things, but I was swayed by both the fact that I had some specific applications that need more channels, and the positive initial reports of people on here (I was aware of the USBpre2 sync issue, but as I've noted, the deck I received would not sync with any S/PDIF signal I tried).

In any event, the unit is now on its way to Tascam.  We'll see how they handle it.

Trust me, Edirol's customer service is no gem either. I'll give Tascam a chance, they haven't wronged me yet where Edirol has.
Microtech Gefell M200: M20/M21/M27 caps> Bumblebee MiAGi-II/Darktrain silver cable's/"Chuck" Belden cables> Aerco MP-2 or Busman modded DR-680 pre-amps> Darktrain cables & interconnects> Tascam DR-680 (Busman mod)
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Offline acidjack

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #64 on: May 16, 2011, 10:37:05 AM »
^^ Oh, I believe that.   I just haven't had to use Edirol's customer service!
Mics: Schoeps MK4V, MK41V, MK5, MK22> CMC6, KCY 250/5, KC5, NBob; MBHO MBP603/KA200N, AT 3031, DPA 4061 w/ d:vice, Naiant X-X, AT 853c, shotgun, Nak300
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Offline Gutbucket

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #65 on: May 16, 2011, 12:16:09 PM »
Minds are either made up one at a time by personal experience, or swayed in larger numbers by the public expression of those experiences by a few.  I will point out to any Tascam reps who may be following this thread that it may be advantageous to consider the way in which these support issues are handled as an excellent, targeted, long term marketing opportunity within this small but influential community.

Opinions once formed are difficult to change.  Minds are still being made up right now, and Tascam has the opportunity to sway the collective mindset in a positive direction by not even going the extra yard, but simply doing what is expected.  The cost of targeting the opinions of a strong return-customer user base are few, but those are dollars well spent and the effects long lasting.  Consider the poor reputation M-Audio became branded with and is still saddled by, 6 years after the rushed release and lackluster support of the Microtracker.

Fortunately I haven't had to deal with repair support for any my Tascam decks.  I like the design, functionality, and price point of these recorders so I use them and have recommended them, yet I'm waiting to hear how more of the DR-680 problems are handled which may figure in reassessing my opinion.  I hope the problems can be resolved.  I did return a new DR2d that arrived DOA but that was handled without a problem by B&H.  My DR680 and the other DR2d is working fine.
   
The only time I've dealt with Roland/Edirol support was for a broken input jack on the original R-09 about 5 years ago- I emailed them about it but didn't have a chance to send it in until 4-5 months later when it was fully out of warranty and they still replaced the board (and installed a new front case face) at no charge.  Based solely on that singular experience, my dealings with Edirol have been excellent.  I've bought several of their newer recorders since.  Besides the good support I received, I like using their products so I keep an eye on their future gear and have no problems recommending them. 

Others have had other experiences.  Of course no manufacturer can always please everyone, but making an effort to get it right at an important moment when enthusiasm for a ground breaking product like the DR-680 may be turning because of support problems, especially for an established user base of return customers who regularly recommend your gear to others,  just makes good business sense.
« Last Edit: May 16, 2011, 12:20:31 PM by Gutbucket »
musical volition > vibrations > voltages > numeric values > voltages > vibrations> virtual teleportation time-machine experience
Better recording made easy - >>Improved PAS table<< | Made excellent- >>click here to download the Oddball Microphone Technique illustrated PDF booklet<< (note: This is a 1st draft, now several years old and in need of revision!  Stay tuned)

kirk97132

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #66 on: May 18, 2011, 02:31:12 PM »
I just wanted to say that I had gotten a reply from Tascam.  For me this was an inquiry about buying an internal part of a recorder to do my own repairs.  I then managed to get them to drop the price $50 on a $200 piece so they do seem to be willing to work with people.  Good luck to everyone else who is trying to get things taken care of.

Offline acidjack

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #67 on: May 24, 2011, 02:14:36 PM »
Brief update that Hi and Lo (co-owner of this deck) and I received a prompt reply from Tascam yesterday (deck arrived there Friday) that the deck is being serviced now.  Hoping for quick turnaround time and a prompt resolution.  I will keep everyone posted as to how it goes.  Certainly, if they are willing to fix the problem quickly, that will greatly improve my view of their product and service.
Mics: Schoeps MK4V, MK41V, MK5, MK22> CMC6, KCY 250/5, KC5, NBob; MBHO MBP603/KA200N, AT 3031, DPA 4061 w/ d:vice, Naiant X-X, AT 853c, shotgun, Nak300
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Offline Gutbucket

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #68 on: May 26, 2011, 10:42:29 AM »
Hope this is moving in a positive direction for everyone.

Double checked sensitivity match across all 6 analog inputs with a signal generator and checked clock sync with SPDIF out from the R-44 last night- all systems go with my DR-680. 

Set for a multichannel extravaganza tonight, 12 channels total across three recorders, each recording 4 channels: two of them clock synced on-stage- DR-680 (tetramic) & R-44 (A-B spaced L/C/R 4060 + co-located center B3 for comparison on 4th channel); plus DR2d with co-located 4060 and B3 pairs for comparison, A-B spaced and boundary mounted on a central wall farther back in the room facing the stage.
musical volition > vibrations > voltages > numeric values > voltages > vibrations> virtual teleportation time-machine experience
Better recording made easy - >>Improved PAS table<< | Made excellent- >>click here to download the Oddball Microphone Technique illustrated PDF booklet<< (note: This is a 1st draft, now several years old and in need of revision!  Stay tuned)

Offline acidjack

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #69 on: May 26, 2011, 11:05:07 AM »
Awesome setup!  How many of those channels do you intend to mix down to final?  Or are you going to mix the final as a 5ch surround or something?
Mics: Schoeps MK4V, MK41V, MK5, MK22> CMC6, KCY 250/5, KC5, NBob; MBHO MBP603/KA200N, AT 3031, DPA 4061 w/ d:vice, Naiant X-X, AT 853c, shotgun, Nak300
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Offline Gutbucket

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #70 on: May 26, 2011, 12:43:03 PM »
It's primary two seperate rigs plus some duplicate channels for mic comps, producing two seperate final recordings, one stereo one surround. Because of that I don't really need to clock sync the DR-680 and R-44, but its easy so I do and if I ever care to try some complex and crazy mixing that just makes doing so much easier, provides redundancy and keeps options open.

The stereo mix is usually derived from the Tetramic alone (4 channels).

The L/C/R omnis on stage are for my own 3 channel playback and when combined with the omnis on the backwall (which would be nice to have in sync with the R-44) produce full surround playback (5 channels).   The onstage omnis also provide rig redundancy and 'immediately available stereo with out any processing' by just using the L/R pair.

The extra 3 channels are simply to compare Countryman B3 to DPA 4060 with identical signal chains and mic positions.

It's a jazz trio gig without PA so no SBD feed.
musical volition > vibrations > voltages > numeric values > voltages > vibrations> virtual teleportation time-machine experience
Better recording made easy - >>Improved PAS table<< | Made excellent- >>click here to download the Oddball Microphone Technique illustrated PDF booklet<< (note: This is a 1st draft, now several years old and in need of revision!  Stay tuned)

Offline sunjan

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #71 on: May 27, 2011, 06:20:45 PM »
Hmmm so I have two takes on this.  ALL OF THIS IS SPECULATION ON MY PART.

ONE that the new poster is a Tascam/Teac person who has come to read threads that at least two of us have relayed to them.  IF that is the case I suspect that they are feeling defensive and hopefully did not intend to pour gas on the fire.  It could be they do not have the authority or permission to participate in a public forum as a product representative.   A good example of how to come onto the TS forum and participate is to use Nic from Sound Devices as an example.  He can identified himself and took all the bitches back to the techs and figured out cause and effect then implemented a fix.

TWO that it is someone who is not from the manufacturer but deals with audio tech/equipment feedback or complaints and is just trying to make sure that there is someone sticking up for the "other" side of the story.

LOL, I just read this thread now, hilarious stuff!
Googled wkrbee and found 179 posts where he tells people to call Tascam support here:
http://www.google.com/search?q=site:tascamforums.com+wkrbee+323-726-0303
And another 140 related posts here:
http://www.google.com/search?q=site:tapeop.com+wkrbee+tascam

Seems that kirkd is onto something here. The plot thickens...  ;D ;D ;D
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Offline acidjack

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #72 on: May 31, 2011, 01:50:56 PM »
fwiw Tascam has told hi and lo and I that they are, in fact, replacing (not repairing) the unit after they "read about the problems you were having" and we should have a brand-new unit today or tomorrow.

They would do themselves a favor by not letting that mysterious Tascam-affiliated poster go out and smear their reputation with his inappropriate posts.  Their actual customer service people have (so far) handled this just fine, and pending the actual receipt of a functioning deck, I will be a satisfied customer.
Mics: Schoeps MK4V, MK41V, MK5, MK22> CMC6, KCY 250/5, KC5, NBob; MBHO MBP603/KA200N, AT 3031, DPA 4061 w/ d:vice, Naiant X-X, AT 853c, shotgun, Nak300
Pres/Power: Aerco MP2, tinybox v2  [KCY], CA-UBB
Decks: Sound Devices MixPre 6, Zoom F8, M10, D50

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Offline darby

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #73 on: May 31, 2011, 02:08:00 PM »
I too had them replace my unit
I recently bought another Tascam unit (DR-2d), only to have it crap out after the first use
the replacement will be here tomorrow... but that doesn't speak very well for their manufacturing

Offline Gutbucket

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Re: Serious Problems w/ the Tascam DR-680 (and their customer service)
« Reply #74 on: May 31, 2011, 03:05:46 PM »
Dang, Darby you've had some tough luck with these things.  What happend with the DR2d?

BTW, I did an on-the-fly 5 channel surround playback of that jazz gig recording I mentioned a few posts back this past weekend with the front three channels played back from the R44 and the two surround channels from the DR2d.  A bit tricky to get things manually sync'd just right between the two recorders at the start, but I've found playback using the same decks that the recording was made on compensates for clock differences between machines (since each machine's clock speed error on recording is compensated for by the same clock speed error on playback).  I didn't have any audible drift even at the end of the almost 2 hour set.  I haven't lined up the seperate filesets on the computer yet, but once I do I'm sure the surround pair will need stretching or shrinking once they share the same clock. 

Not the easiest way to do regular multichannel playback but a cool trick to hear what you've got without any computer work.
musical volition > vibrations > voltages > numeric values > voltages > vibrations> virtual teleportation time-machine experience
Better recording made easy - >>Improved PAS table<< | Made excellent- >>click here to download the Oddball Microphone Technique illustrated PDF booklet<< (note: This is a 1st draft, now several years old and in need of revision!  Stay tuned)

 

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