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Gear / Technical Help => Recording Gear => Topic started by: pdastoor on August 10, 2016, 11:21:24 PM

Title: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pdastoor on August 10, 2016, 11:21:24 PM
Hasn't been released in North America, but it is out in Asia and can be purchased on eBay.

It is in Russian but you can find more info here: http://prosound.ixbt.com/news/2016/july/08/tascam-dr-100mk3.shtml

Looks like it has all the features of the MKII expect it's missing the switch that lets to select Mic in or Line in option near the XLR ports. Also it is missing the switch that lets you select XLR, Uni, Omni or Line 2 input option that the older model had. Perhaps that is replaced in the menu?

Here is what my translation says:

 Tascam DR-100MKIII - updated portable stereo tape

Announced the release of a portable two-channel audio recorder DR-100MKIII from companies Tascam. The device is the successor model DR-100MKII , and provides higher quality sound recording with enhanced "stuffing." Furthermore, MKIII version predecessor and superior in terms of functionality and usability.

As DR-100MKII, renovated recorder is equipped with 4 built-in condenser microphones: two directional and two omnidirectional. This directional microphones in the DR-100MKIII have anti-shock suspension for reduced operating noise. Also, the novelty can boast the ability to record in 24 bits / 192 kHz, higher-quality preamps HDDA with low noise (EIN = -124 dBu) and analog-to-digital converters of the AKM AK4558, providing a signal / noise ratio of not less than 102 dB (in the mode Dual ADC SNR parameter reaches 109 dB). Another important advantage of the Tascam DR-100MKIII is the presence of combined inputs Mic / Line, implemented on the connectors manufactured by Amphenol.

Here are some other features new items and its differences from the DR-100MKII:

    support for memory cards such as SDXC (maximum capacity - 128 GB);
    a larger LCD screen resolution of 128 × 128 pixels and multi-language menu;
    thermally stabilized precision crystal oscillator TCXO;
    function Dual Recording, which allows to write two files in parallel on different levels;
    new feature XRI (Extended Recording Information), allows you to save settings to have been recorded in the BWF file;
    the ability to record audio in two different formats (WAV and MP3) at the same time;
    a more powerful headphone output: 2 × 40 mW at 32 ohms;
    the possibility of supply from Li-ion battery capacity of 3950 mA • h (which is two and a half times more than its predecessor), a pair of AA-size batteries, the optional adapter PS-P520E or separate unit BP-6AA batteries;
    sturdy aluminum housing for use in extreme conditions.

Available stereo tape Tascam DR-100MKIII appear in the third quarter of 2016, and its estimated cost will be about $ 500. Separately, you can buy a set of accessories AK-DR11G MKII, compatible with all recorders DR-series.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 13, 2016, 05:49:34 PM
Here is the specs page from Tascam Japan:

https://tascam.jp/jp/product/dr-100mkiii/spec
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on August 13, 2016, 06:04:16 PM
Looks very good on paper, with some features not usually found in recorders this small such as the dual record safety tracks.  I notice an optical digital input on top which I believe replaced the mic in from previous versions.

This looks like it's aimed squarely at the Sony PCM-D100 market segment, both in features and in price.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 13, 2016, 06:43:32 PM
This looks like it's aimed squarely at the Sony PCM-D100 market segment, both in features and in price.

Exactly what I was thinking: a D100 killer.

I find the "eXtended Recording Information" function intriguing. It also does 88.2 and MS decode. I wonder if the preamps are as good as the DR70D.

Here is some more info I got from Google Translate:

High performance audio performance that focus on stereo recording If you need a high audio performance in audio equipment, a vast space to place a high power consumption and the number of parts is required, this is contradictory elements as the "size" is a feature of Handy recorder. "DR-100MKIII" high audio performance and specialized in stereo recording in order to obtain the sound quality,. Choose to use the limited space and power to all stereo recording circuit, it has been achieved TASCAM stereo linear PCM recorder best ever performance.

Equipped with the AKM AK4558 made with VELVET SOUND architecture that are both Koonshitsu and low power consumption in the A / D converter, achieve a S / N ratio of 102dB

Equipped with a dual-ADC function that uses the AK4558 of 2 groups, achieve a record time of S / N ratio of 109dB

Equipped with a low noise HDDA microphone pre-amplifier of a discrete structure to XLR / TRS input

The conventional machine than the high sound quality dual (single-directional / omni-directional) stereo microphone unit

It can be recorded in 24bit / 192kHz

Equipped with a shock mount mechanism to a single directional microphone


Reliability poured the know-how of commercial equipment development function group brings In the business for recording different from the general consumer use, it is of course of such a high reliability is required. As a cornerstone of the track record that has delivered a lot of equipment in the field of broadcast and professional sound, the ability to prevent the recording accident have been incorporated.

Equipped with a large-capacity lithium-ion battery, it can be driven for a long time in the capable dual battery mechanism in combination with AA batteries

Dual-level recording function that can record a backup for the file at the same time

Adopted Amphenol made lock with XLR / TRS combo jack

Aluminum high-rigidity body to withstand the long-term use

According to the master recorder and the equivalent of TCXO (temperature compensated crystal oscillator) +/- 1ppm high precision clock



Promise smooth operation, operability is enhanced by user feedback In the field work that quick judgment is required, operation of the equipment to be used will be very important. Testimonials that our use your conventional machine, and a lot of the know-how obtained by linear PCM recorder development has built a user interface that can be speedy operation without hesitation to the original.

Large LCD, user interface in consideration of the visibility such as a dedicated LED

Hardware switch group to contribute to the quick setting

Dual-format recording function which can record the BWF / MP3 files at the same time

XRI to record the setting at the time of recording (eXtended Recording Information) function


Functions list

44.1k / 48k / 88.2k / 96k / 176.4k / 192k Hz, 16/24-bit WAV (BWF) format recording is possible

44.1k / 48k Hz, can be recorded in the MP3 format of 128k ~ 320k bps

Adopt a highly versatile SD / SDHC / SDXC card in the recording media, up to 128GB SDXC card is available

Two by two unidirectional condenser microphone and an omni-directional condenser microphone, equipped with a total of four built-in microphone

Equipped with a dual-ADC function that uses the AK4558 of 2 groups, achieve a record time of S / N ratio of 109dB

Dual-level recording function that can record a backup for the file at the same time

WAV (BWF) / MP3 dual-format recording function that files can be recorded at the same time

MS decode function that allows the use of M-S stereo microphone

Auto mark function that mark is attached automatically according to set conditions

Dual battery mechanism that can be used in combination with a dedicated lithium-ion battery and AA batteries

Built-in speaker

Level control function with auto gain control and peak reduction

Possible limiter, the operation of the pad is a dedicated switch

Low-cut filter (OFF / 40/80/120 / 220Hz) equipped

It senses the signal of the analog input level or digital input of audio, auto-record function that allows the start of the recording with automatic

Convenient auto tone function in conjunction with the position of a moving image file Mark features that help to move to a specific position

PRE REC function that can record sound from the start recording two seconds before

While continuing the recording, automatic segmentation feature that automatically update the file in the preset time

Repeat function and loop playback function

VSA (Variable Speed Audition) variable can speed the pitch of the sound as it is by the function Such as details of the body set

in addition to the recording date and time, size, capable of recording XRI feature information of an audio file

Divide the ability to split the file in any position (BWF files only)

You can set the format of the file name to either the user or the word date

backlit dot matrix type LCD of 128 x 128

File names in Japanese, corresponding to the menu display

Equipped with a metal tripod mounting hole in the body

It comes with a digital input conversion cable

High-speed file transfer with USB2.0

Resume function to store the position when the power is OFF

A dedicated external battery pack (sold separately: TASCAM BP-6AA) enables power supply from the

If you use the optional AC adapter (PS-P520E), it can be used continuously without worrying about the remaining battery level

MP3 ID3 tag (Ver. 2.4) Japanese display is possible



Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Life In Rewind on August 13, 2016, 07:02:21 PM
'Bout time someone released a recorder with Koonshitsu!!!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on August 13, 2016, 07:49:44 PM
I took the picture posted on the website and adjusted it so the deck can be seen straight on. Of course when adjusted one way it distorts in another way
making the recorder look thicker than it really is. There are some cool looking features like mic pads. I would guess that the digi in is coax with an adaptor cable
like the previous models.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on August 13, 2016, 08:05:56 PM
I would guess that the digi in is coax with an adaptor cable like the previous models.

I wasn't aware they had that on prior versions.  I assumed it was for a Toslink cable like this (https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com-THINTOSMIN6-Toslink-Digital-Optical/dp/B00016W6Y6).

Also, is the input gain adjustment still analog?  I would have expected them to go with digital gain controls like the 70D and other newer recorders, which would allow them to eliminate that knob and just go with the jog wheel.

It's nice to see dedicated switches for those other functions though.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 13, 2016, 08:14:33 PM
Here are some photos off Tascam Japan.

The hold function has the option of ALL or just LEVEL.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on August 13, 2016, 08:36:12 PM
[
Quote
I wasn't aware they had that on prior versions.  I assumed it was for a Toslink cable
like this (https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com-THINTOSMIN6-Toslink-Digital-Optical/dp/B00016W6Y6).

Yes, this is the third version. The first two had s/pdif coax with an adaptor cable for a mini jack.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on August 13, 2016, 09:21:36 PM
^ ^ Nice pics.  The selective hold switch is really cool.

I notice from the Tascam Japan pics that there's individual level adjustment, with 0.5 dB resolution (MONO indicated at top, L channel at 25.0 dB; R channel at 21.5).  The pictures from the Russian site show STEREO mode with both channels set to 7.0 dB.  Unless I'm missing something, that means this has digital gain control and switchable channel ganging.  If that's the case, then I wonder how the dedicated level knob on the right functions in MONO (non-ganged) mode, since it's one solid piece as opposed to two nested, separate L/R controls:

If channels are not ganged, would it raise or lower both channels together while retaining the previously-set relative level differences between them?  Or would it equalize the level of both channels and then move them together?  Or should I just wait until the manual is posted and read the damn answer for myself???
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pdastoor on August 14, 2016, 02:54:17 AM
what is difference between digital in and external in? I guess ext in is mic input and digital in is line up for the 3.5mm slot?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 14, 2016, 09:02:13 AM
^ ^ Nice pics.  The selective hold switch is really cool.

I wonder how the dedicated level knob on the right functions

If you look at the same photo of the front of the unit, there is a switch just below the display on the right marked INPUT LEVEL. It looks like it's a three position switch for L - STEREO - R.

So I assume changing the switch position allows you to adjust the level of either channel individually or of both simultaneously when you move that dedicated level knob on the right side of the unit.

Probably MONO recording is set up in the menus.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 14, 2016, 09:22:37 AM
what is difference between digital in and external in? I guess ext in is mic input and digital in is line up for the 3.5mm slot?

DIGITAL IN is for digital signals (i.e., external preamp output) and EXT-IN is for analog, either line or mic, I would think. It appears to provide PIP.

I like the dedicated PHANTOM POWER switch on the bottom.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on August 14, 2016, 12:12:28 PM
^ ^ Nice pics.  The selective hold switch is really cool.

I wonder how the dedicated level knob on the right functions

If you look at the same photo of the front of the unit, there is a switch just below the display on the right marked INPUT LEVEL. It looks like it's a three position switch for L - STEREO - R.

So I assume changing the switch position allows you to adjust the level of either channel individually or of both simultaneously when you move that dedicated level knob on the right side of the unit.

Probably MONO recording is set up in the menus.

Ah, I missed that.  Thanks.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dallman on August 14, 2016, 05:33:33 PM
I would guess that the digi in is coax with an adaptor cable like the previous models.

I wasn't aware they had that on prior versions.  I assumed it was for a Toslink cable like this (https://www.amazon.com/StarTech-com-THINTOSMIN6-Toslink-Digital-Optical/dp/B00016W6Y6).

Also, is the input gain adjustment still analog?  I would have expected them to go with digital gain controls like the 70D and other newer recorders, which would allow them to eliminate that knob and just go with the jog wheel.

It's nice to see dedicated switches for those other functions though.

The previous DR100MKII had the same coaxial digi in as this model but it has moved from the side where a rt angle TRRS adapter was preferred to the top where the straight supplied one will be just fine.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 15, 2016, 06:51:56 AM
Here's the link to the manual in English:

https://tascam.jp/downloads/products/tascam/dr-100mkiii/DR-100MK3_OM_vA.pdf


UPDATE: This is not the full manual, but a quick guide. I've only found the full manual in Japanese:

https://tascam.jp/downloads/products/tascam/dr-100mkiii/J_DR-100MK3_RM_vA.pdf
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: yug du nord on August 15, 2016, 11:43:48 AM
if the mkIII has a dual-record function..  is it a 4-channel recorder??
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: F.O.Bean on August 16, 2016, 01:28:38 AM
I really dig it, and for the right price, would be a nice 2 channel option to run my vms or PFAs into! But I wish these companies would give up on the external mics attached to the decks, and just release a straight recorder, but they're getting smaller than ever, so whatevs lol ;D

Wonder what USA price will be like though?

Also, I really like the L/Stereo/R "Input Level" switch on the front, so you can link/gang your gain for both channels, or adjust separately! That's pretty cool, since most of these style decks only have a stereo link gain knob/switch/etc. That would be perfect for me personally running VMS->dr100mkiii, since the vms only has a single gain knob[+20db/+40db], I could easily fine tune the L/R VMS levels on the 100mkiii, just like I can on my 70D's! That makes this much more attractable to me! Plus it has the HDDA preamps that the other, newer, DR-Series decks have, that sound more than adequate for louder taping situations IMO! Guess it will come down to how much $$ they want for it! Seems like it looks a little like the new Marantz PMD551, doesn't it? Anyone else see that resemblance?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pdastoor on August 16, 2016, 02:27:07 AM
Bean you can find it on ebay for around $700+ USD.

They should be released worldwide in fall and the price will be $500 USD
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: F.O.Bean on August 16, 2016, 03:21:08 AM
Bean you can find it on ebay for around $700+ USD.

They should be released worldwide in fall and the price will be $500 USD

+T Thanks for the info 8)

A little much $$ at the present time for me personally, but when it goes down in price, it will def be a sweet lil 2 channel rig! I really like all of the features that it has!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Chilly Brioschi on August 17, 2016, 05:56:50 AM
'Bout time someone released a recorder with Koonshitsu!!!

Did anyone ever translate that?

Compressed sound quality?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on August 17, 2016, 08:10:25 AM
'Bout time someone released a recorder with Koonshitsu!!!

Compressed sound quality?

That must be the "modern big-label mastering" processing option.  :bawling:
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: H₂O on August 17, 2016, 01:17:55 PM
$500 is far too much IMO - $300 would be a more reasonable amount for this recorder

If it recorded DSD maybe $500 would be ok - but that's a maybe

too bad the D100 is about $400 overpriced as well

I would consider a PCM-D100 for $400 and this unit w/o DSD for $300


Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jeenash on August 17, 2016, 03:21:55 PM
I wonder if they have altered the firmware to accept "professional" SPDIF signals?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on August 17, 2016, 04:23:41 PM
$500 is far too much IMO - $300 would be a more reasonable amount for this recorder

If it recorded DSD maybe $500 would be ok - but that's a maybe

too bad the D100 is about $400 overpriced as well

I would consider a PCM-D100 for $400 and this unit w/o DSD for $300

Agreed with all of this except for DSD, which is a flawed format.  I believe the fallacy that it's somehow better than 24/192 (or even 24/96) PCM is how Sony and others try to justify the high prices.

I look at all of the true professional field recorders out there from the likes of Aeta, SD, Zaxcom, Nagra, etc. and I don't see them offering DSD.  (I'm sure someone will correct me if I missed one. ) That tells me all I need to know.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on August 17, 2016, 06:40:16 PM
if the mkIII has a dual-record function..  is it a 4-channel recorder??

Unfortunately for us, Tascam must no longer see a value in offering that particular dual-record feature on these recorders anymore, as this unit doesn't appear to include that functionality.  I guess that's no Koonshitsu.

There is no mention of DUAL_LINE record mode (Tascam terminology for the dual-record function which enables recording of separate stereo inputs to two individual stereo files) in the quick guide that dogmusic linked a few posts back, only mention of what they've previously termed DUAL_LEVEL (the dual-record function which enables recording a single stereo input to two individual stereo files, the second recorded at lower input levels as a 'safety track'). Could be available but not mentioned in the quick-guide, but it's not hinted at nor in the list of features.  Could conceivably be added with a firmware update later, as the physical components are all in place to allow it.

Gain adjustment and level display seem good.  Presumably gain is via a digital PGA, yet controlled using the side knob pot (presumably an endless-rotation encoder), with the ability to adjust either channel independently or both together (linked/ganged) depending on the position of the L/Stereo/R input level switch.  Display indicates signal level in typical bar-graph form as well as peak level in numeric form (a feature I really like in the DR2d, unfortunately not present in the DR-680), as well as the input gain setting for each channel.  I presume the lock position labeled "level" locks all controls except the rotary input level encoder on the side (and I'd hope possibly the L/Stereo/R input level switch as well).

The other two most interesting new features I see are:

1) The ability to set the phantom power voltage, presumably as a way of increasing battery run time when using microphones which can function fine with less than 48V. But there is no mention of any adjustability for PIP voltage, which would be a very welcome feature allowing users to bump PIP up to 9V from the typical 2.5 or 3V and eliminate the need for a battery box.

2) The use of the 'extra' ADC channels to increase S/N from 103dB to 109dB.  As I see it, this is most important technical performance improvement. I'd have to look it up, but I think that's about the same S/N performance as the two channel Sound Devices recorders. If the recorder actually meets that spec, it means a 24 bit recording made with this machine is capable of encoding something like between 18 and 19 bits worth of actual dynamic range, rather than writing a nominal 24 bit file which contains little more than 16 bits worth of actual signal range along with 12 or so bits of nothing but noise at the bottom just above the least significant bit.

Use of that function presumably supersedes the dual-level feature as both functions make use of the additional ADC channels.  Meaning the user can choose between either dual-level or the increased S/N function but not both.  In actual use, the increased S/N function effectively does the same as recording using the dual-level function set to -6dB, except eliminating the need to record, manage, and edit a second stereo file.  Just turn on the increase S/N function and set your levels 6dB lower than normal without affecting the noise floor..  I suppose the dual-level function is still useful if set for greater than -6dB relative levels recorded to the safety tracks, but to my way of thinking that dual-level function has always been little more than a newbe crutch anyway.  If it actually meets the spec, the ability to get a 109dB S/N from this recorder is a significant performance jump for Tascam. 
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: H₂O on August 17, 2016, 07:24:20 PM
For item 2 above - I wonder if Zaxcom will attempt to pull legal stunt on Tascam the same way they did on Sonosax

Sonosax uses 2 AD channels per analog channel to get to 135db on it's AD8+ and R4+ which Zaxcom claims to have patented (Neverclip) here in the states - forcing Sonosax to disable on of the channels on the stateside version (in firmware) - this limits it to 127db

I personally will never consider Zaxcom because of this bs - the idea has been around for almost 30 years and has been implemented in designs for almost as long.

109db is nowhere close to 135db so I don't see this happening
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on August 17, 2016, 07:42:03 PM
Yep, the Zaxcom patent infringement issue comes immediately to mind.

 Similar US patent issues has kept Tascam from sellling the DR-10C in the USA-  http://tascam.com/product/dr-10c/ (http://tascam.com/product/dr-10c/). Note the warning in red on that webpage stating: "Attention : These models are not available in the US."  In that case I believe the patent infringement concerns local recording in the device prior to wireless transmission to a main recorder, even though the device has no transmitter functionality, and is intended to be used up-stream of a separate TX device.  Tascam does sell the DR-10X in the USA- http://tascam.com/product/dr-10x/ (http://tascam.com/product/dr-10x/), which is identical except for featuring no output connector (and featuring a full sized XLR input instead of mini-XLR, as it's intended to plug directly into a dynamic mic).
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 17, 2016, 08:21:11 PM
I presume the lock position labeled "level" locks all controls except the rotary input level encoder on the side.

I believe it's the opposite of that^. The HOLD/lock position labeled "level" locks only the rotary input level encoder on the side. Movement of the control is ignored.

This is from page 8 of the Guide:

HOLD function for preventing accidental operation
You can slide the HOLD switch to LEVEL or ALL to enable the hold function that prevents accidental operation.
ALL: operations of the input level knob and all buttons are ignored
LEVEL: Operations of the input level knob are ignored
OFF: hold function is off
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on August 18, 2016, 09:17:10 AM
I suppose there is an argument for either way, but I'd think most here would prefer it lock the transport buttons and leave the input gain adjustable.  Would be nice if that functionality could be determined by a menu setting.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: 2manyrocks on August 18, 2016, 11:12:57 AM
I don't get this mkiii.  If it offers sound quality comparable to a sd702 in a smaller package for $500, maybe.  If it is just another tascam for $500, no way. 
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: noahbickart on August 18, 2016, 11:22:37 AM
I still don't understand why noone has developed a simple 24bit PCM recorder with nothing but a spdif input. It's 2016 and we *still* don't have a simple bit bucket.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: morst on August 18, 2016, 05:12:16 PM
interesting feature set. Too bad it's made by Tascam!  :-\
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Massive Dynamic on August 20, 2016, 12:30:09 AM
I still don't understand why noone has developed a simple 24bit PCM recorder with nothing but a spdif input. It's 2016 and we *still* don't have a simple bit bucket.
Ten years ago, that would have been a reasonable idea. A manufacturer isn't going to make a unit just for the folks still using a V3.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 23, 2016, 04:18:41 PM
Tascam USA now has the webpage up for the DR-100mkiii:

http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/overview/

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pdastoor on August 24, 2016, 02:29:17 AM
guys, please answer. Can you set whether you want to use line or mic using XLR connection. In the old Tascam Dr100 MK II, you had a switch which let you choose mic or line in.

Here is what I am talking about (https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/81JuC2bHfQL._SL1500_.jpg)
Is this possible with the new unit? Thanks
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: ghibliss on August 24, 2016, 04:08:26 PM
Mic is for microphone level input signals and Line is for Line level ie from an instrument such as an electric guitar.  Different amounts of gain are used for each setting.l
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 26, 2016, 08:59:59 AM
Looks like the digital adapter cable is a simple 3.5mm mono plug to the rca female. Less esoteric than the adapter for the DR100mk2.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pohaku on August 30, 2016, 09:26:38 AM
B&H has the unit for $399.  Haven't looked for an "approved card" list yet :laugh:

Edit: tested media list is at the bottom of the Specs page on the Tascam website.  Mostly Sandisk.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on August 30, 2016, 12:06:57 PM
ordered
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on August 30, 2016, 05:05:20 PM
B&H has the unit for $399.  Haven't looked for an "approved card" list yet :laugh:

Edit: tested media list is at the bottom of the Specs page on the Tascam website.  Mostly Sandisk.

It's good to see that they actually have that list ready to go at product release, unlike the 70D.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: 2manyrocks on August 30, 2016, 07:51:35 PM
Yes, give them credit for publishing the list of approved cards upon release of the DR100mkiii and for making the screen bigger so hopefully it will be easier to monitor input levels.

 
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pdastoor on August 31, 2016, 08:13:17 PM
Ordered one as well, will put up test results once I get it
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on September 01, 2016, 10:17:31 AM
Hello -   I just got my new recorder and am very impressed by the functionality. I never had a desire for a dr100 series recorder until this one.
 The owners manual is close to worthless though. The menu system is pretty intuitive but there is one setting I don't understand. On the i/o page
there is a selection marked a/d filter. I understand that it is the analog/digital filter. The four selections for that are FIR1, FIR2, SHORT DELAY1 and
SHORT DELAY2. What does this mean and which selection should I use? Thanks for your help.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 01, 2016, 12:26:58 PM
Hello -   I just got my new recorder and am very impressed by the functionality. I never had a desire for a dr100 series recorder until this one.
 The owners manual is close to worthless though. The menu system is pretty intuitive but there is one setting I don't understand. On the i/o page
there is a selection marked a/d filter. I understand that it is the analog/digital filter. The four selections for that are FIR1, FIR2, SHORT DELAY1 and
SHORT DELAY2. What does this mean and which selection should I use? Thanks for your help.

I got this from a Google translation of the Japanese reference manual, not yet released in English:

To select the characteristics of the digital filter. (A / D filter)
You can select the characteristics of the digital filter at the time of A / D converter
It is. This allows you to change the tone of the post-conversion.
1. Select. A / D filter. Item of the input and output setting. Screen,. To display the A / D filter. Screen. (→ .10 page "Basic operations Using the Menu")
2. Select the characteristics of the A / D filter.
SHORT DELAY1
(initial value)
Hints
FIR digital filter
In proven filter in sound quality than conventional, tone that combines the sharpness of sound-out the sound of the dense, rich sound it is characterized.
SHORT.DELAY type digital filter
There is no pre-echo to the impulse response, the rise and decay of the sound is a natural, sound close to the original sound is characterized.

Choices
Content
Use the FIR type digital filter of the slow roll-off characteristic to sharply cut the signal out of the audio band.

FIR1
Use the FIR type digital filter of the slow roll-off characteristic that gradually cut the signal out of the audio band.

FIR2
Use the SHORT.DELAY type digital filter of sharp roll-off characteristics that sharply cut the signal out of the audio band.
Use the SHORT.DELAY type digital filter of the slow roll-off characteristic that gradually cut the signal out of the audio band.
SHORT DELAY2


24 TASCAM DR-100MKIII
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: fransb on September 02, 2016, 07:06:54 AM
I am curious about what is included in the box. Also a remote control? Carrying case?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on September 02, 2016, 10:42:10 AM
I got mine from B&H. It just came with recorder, instruction manual and s/pdif conversion cable. Sweetwater says theirs
comes with that plus usb cable, soft case and windscreen. Amazon says  all that plus 2GB card and RC-10 remote.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Life In Rewind on September 02, 2016, 10:45:35 AM
Hello -   I just got my new recorder and am very impressed by the functionality. I never had a desire for a dr100 series recorder until this one.
 The owners manual is close to worthless though. The menu system is pretty intuitive but there is one setting I don't understand. On the i/o page
there is a selection marked a/d filter. I understand that it is the analog/digital filter. The four selections for that are FIR1, FIR2, SHORT DELAY1 and
SHORT DELAY2. What does this mean and which selection should I use? Thanks for your help.

I got this from a Google translation of the Japanese reference manual, not yet released in English:

To select the characteristics of the digital filter. (A / D filter)
You can select the characteristics of the digital filter at the time of A / D converter
It is. This allows you to change the tone of the post-conversion.
1. Select. A / D filter. Item of the input and output setting. Screen,. To display the A / D filter. Screen. (→ .10 page "Basic operations Using the Menu")
2. Select the characteristics of the A / D filter.
SHORT DELAY1
(initial value)
Hints
FIR digital filter
In proven filter in sound quality than conventional, tone that combines the sharpness of sound-out the sound of the dense, rich sound it is characterized.
SHORT.DELAY type digital filter
There is no pre-echo to the impulse response, the rise and decay of the sound is a natural, sound close to the original sound is characterized.

Choices
Content
Use the FIR type digital filter of the slow roll-off characteristic to sharply cut the signal out of the audio band.

FIR1
Use the FIR type digital filter of the slow roll-off characteristic that gradually cut the signal out of the audio band.

FIR2
Use the SHORT.DELAY type digital filter of sharp roll-off characteristics that sharply cut the signal out of the audio band.
Use the SHORT.DELAY type digital filter of the slow roll-off characteristic that gradually cut the signal out of the audio band.
SHORT DELAY2


24 TASCAM DR-100MKIII

English manual is up.

http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/912/dr-100mk3_om_va.pdf

Maybe related to the Dual ADC "Velvet Sound" options?

The manual never does reference the options you noted, though...those almost seem like something they forgot to translate or rename...or maybe shouldn't be there at all.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 02, 2016, 10:54:50 AM
English manual is up.

http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/912/dr-100mk3_om_va.pdf

Maybe related to the Dual ADC "Velvet Sound" options?

The manual never does reference the options you noted, though...those almost seem like something they forgot to translate or rename...or maybe shouldn't be there at all.

That's the Owner's Manual and has been up for a couple weeks. It's basically a Quick Start Guide.

The Japanese manual I referred to is the Reference Manual that has more detailed information and is still not available in English.

https://tascam.jp/downloads/products/tascam/dr-100mkiii/J_DR-100MK3_RM_vA.pdf
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on September 13, 2016, 09:30:19 AM
Just took mine out on it's maiden voyage last night. It is super clean and quiet and really easy to use. It seems like they really thought this
one out. For a one hour and thirty minute show using 48v phantom the internal battery wasn't even a quarter down. The mic pres are very
hot.  Make sure to enact the mic pad switch for anything louder than pure acoustic. I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 13, 2016, 11:54:20 AM
Just took mine out on it's maiden voyage last night. It is super clean and quiet and really easy to use. It seems like they really thought this
one out. For a one hour and thirty minute show using 48v phantom the internal battery wasn't even a quarter down. The mic pres are very
hot.  Make sure to enact the mic pad switch for anything louder than pure acoustic. I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.

Great to hear. Thanks for that.

How good are the internal mics?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pdastoor on September 13, 2016, 03:11:37 PM
Just took mine out on it's maiden voyage last night. It is super clean and quiet and really easy to use. It seems like they really thought this
one out. For a one hour and thirty minute show using 48v phantom the internal battery wasn't even a quarter down. The mic pres are very
hot.  Make sure to enact the mic pad switch for anything louder than pure acoustic. I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.

that is amazing. Would you be able to share a sample of the recording?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on September 13, 2016, 08:25:48 PM

that is amazing. Would you be able to share a sample of the recording?

 
I would but I promised the artist and manager that I wouldn't.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pdastoor on September 13, 2016, 10:51:30 PM

that is amazing. Would you be able to share a sample of the recording?

 
I would but I promised the artist and manager that I wouldn't.

Understandable. I just wanted to hear how clean the preamps are. I'm amazed though about the internal battery part, that is quite impressive.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 14, 2016, 10:06:35 AM
Reference manual is now up at Tascam site:

http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/912/e_dr-100mk3_rm_va%20(1).pdf
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: 2manyrocks on September 14, 2016, 11:13:51 AM
Just took mine out on it's maiden voyage last night. It is super clean and quiet and really easy to use. It seems like they really thought this
one out. For a one hour and thirty minute show using 48v phantom the internal battery wasn't even a quarter down. The mic pres are very
hot.  Make sure to enact the mic pad switch for anything louder than pure acoustic. I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.

I'd be interested in more of your opinion of the Dr100mkiii.  You were obviously willing to pay $500?, I guess, for it even though it's a two track recorder.  There are several other choices of recorders for $500 and under.  So ---what were your thoughts in buying the DR100mkiii instead of one of the other products?  If you have owned some other recorders that we commonly talk about (m10, 70d, etc), how does the mkiii compare in your opinion?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on September 14, 2016, 05:04:35 PM
Just took mine out on it's maiden voyage last night. It is super clean and quiet and really easy to use. It seems like they really thought this
one out. For a one hour and thirty minute show using 48v phantom the internal battery wasn't even a quarter down. The mic pres are very
hot.  Make sure to enact the mic pad switch for anything louder than pure acoustic. I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.

I'd be interested in more of your opinion of the Dr100mkiii.  You were obviously willing to pay $500?, I guess, for it even though it's a two track recorder.  There are several other choices of recorders for $500 and under.  So ---what were your thoughts in buying the DR100mkiii instead of one of the other products?  If you have owned some other recorders that we commonly talk about (m10, 70d, etc), how does the mkiii compare in your opinion?

 Hello-
   I paid $399 delivered from B&H. I own or have owned Edirol R1, R09, R09hr, R-44, Sony m10, d50, Olympus ls-10 and ls-7, Tascam dr-680 mk II and Zoom F8. For what you get I think $399 is quite fair.
Many of these decks did not have mic preamps so I have used Lunatec v2, Sound Devices mp-2, mixpre and usbpre2. For an all in one that costs a fraction of some of my other portable rigs, I think bang
for the buck is extremely high. I haven't done a pure acoustic recording in a good hall yet but I have high hopes for when I do. We are lucky to have many flavors of good these days at reasonable prices.
From someone who used to sometimes lug around a Nak 600 with 8 D cell batteries this machine is a modern miracle.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 19, 2016, 10:59:33 AM
Just took mine out on it's maiden voyage last night. It is super clean and quiet and really easy to use. It seems like they really thought this
one out. For a one hour and thirty minute show using 48v phantom the internal battery wasn't even a quarter down. The mic pres are very
hot.  Make sure to enact the mic pad switch for anything louder than pure acoustic. I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.

I'd be interested in more of your opinion of the Dr100mkiii.  You were obviously willing to pay $500?, I guess, for it even though it's a two track recorder.  There are several other choices of recorders for $500 and under.  So ---what were your thoughts in buying the DR100mkiii instead of one of the other products?  If you have owned some other recorders that we commonly talk about (m10, 70d, etc), how does the mkiii compare in your opinion?

 Hello-
   I paid $399 delivered from B&H. I own or have owned Edirol R1, R09, R09hr, R-44, Sony m10, d50, Olympus ls-10 and ls-7, Tascam dr-680 mk II and Zoom F8. For what you get I think $399 is quite fair.
Many of these decks did not have mic preamps so I have used Lunatec v2, Sound Devices mp-2, mixpre and usbpre2. For an all in one that costs a fraction of some of my other portable rigs, I think bang
for the buck is extremely high. I haven't done a pure acoustic recording in a good hall yet but I have high hopes for when I do. We are lucky to have many flavors of good these days at reasonable prices.
From someone who used to sometimes lug around a Nak 600 with 8 D cell batteries this machine is a modern miracle.

Did you get a chance to run the unit in a quiet environment to get an idea of how good the premaps compare to the others you have used (Lunatec v2, Sound Devices mp-2, mixpre and usbpre2)?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on September 19, 2016, 05:03:36 PM
Just took mine out on it's maiden voyage last night. It is super clean and quiet and really easy to use. It seems like they really thought this
one out. For a one hour and thirty minute show using 48v phantom the internal battery wasn't even a quarter down. The mic pres are very
hot.  Make sure to enact the mic pad switch for anything louder than pure acoustic. I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.

I'd be interested in more of your opinion of the Dr100mkiii.  You were obviously willing to pay $500?, I guess, for it even though it's a two track recorder.  There are several other choices of recorders for $500 and under.  So ---what were your thoughts in buying the DR100mkiii instead of one of the other products?  If you have owned some other recorders that we commonly talk about (m10, 70d, etc), how does the mkiii compare in your opinion?

 Hello-
   I paid $399 delivered from B&H. I own or have owned Edirol R1, R09, R09hr, R-44, Sony m10, d50, Olympus ls-10 and ls-7, Tascam dr-680 mk II and Zoom F8. For what you get I think $399 is quite fair.
Many of these decks did not have mic preamps so I have used Lunatec v2, Sound Devices mp-2, mixpre and usbpre2. For an all in one that costs a fraction of some of my other portable rigs, I think bang
for the buck is extremely high. I haven't done a pure acoustic recording in a good hall yet but I have high hopes for when I do. We are lucky to have many flavors of good these days at reasonable prices.
From someone who used to sometimes lug around a Nak 600 with 8 D cell batteries this machine is a modern miracle.

Did you get a chance to run the unit in a quiet environment to get an idea of how good the premaps compare to the others you have used (Lunatec v2, Sound Devices mp-2, mixpre and usbpre2)?

Just messing around at home. This thing is quiet. I'm thinking of selling my mixpre but I got almost nothing for my flawless condition mp-2 ($250) on ebay. I had already sold my v2.
I am thinking of keeping the usbpre2 so that I can go digi coax out to the tascam and digi optical out to the d50 and make 2 identical recordings. I will probably sell my r-44 because I have the f8.
Here's a link to an album I recorded with the usbpre2 and mixpre going into the r-44. http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/steveabshireandsteveherb I think the F8 on it's own sounds just as good.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 19, 2016, 05:15:48 PM
I will probably sell my r-44 because I have the f8.
Here's a link to an album I recorded with the usbpre2 and mixpre going into the r-44. http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/steveabshireandsteveherb I think the F8 on it's own sounds just as good.

So how does the TASCAM DR-100MKIII measure up to the F8?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on September 19, 2016, 05:24:54 PM
I will probably sell my r-44 because I have the f8.
Here's a link to an album I recorded with the usbpre2 and mixpre going into the r-44. http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/steveabshireandsteveherb I think the F8 on it's own sounds just as good.

So how does the TASCAM DR-100MKIII measure up to the F8?
Sorry for rambling before. While I haven't done any direct comparisons I would venture to say that it would compare quite favorably.
The only recording I have done with the Tascam is African guitarist Vieux Farka Toure with Schoeps in an m/s pattern. It was mostly
electric but not incredibly loud. It came out whistle clean. I love the m/s monitoring.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: gewwang on September 26, 2016, 11:52:57 AM
I took mine out for the first time last night for Sara Watkins at the Grey Eagle in Asheville and ran DPA 4023 directly into it. On the same stand, I also ran DPA 4028 > V3 > 744. I'll post some samples and some more thoughts later, but it was easy to run and monitor/tweak levels.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 26, 2016, 01:56:31 PM
I took mine out for the first time last night for Sara Watkins at the Grey Eagle in Asheville and ran DPA 4023 directly into it. On the same stand, I also ran DPA 4028 > V3 > 744. I'll post some samples and some more thoughts later, but it was easy to run and monitor/tweak levels.

Thanks in advance. I'm trying to figure out whether to pull the plug on this or not, and I really want to know that the preamps are terrific enough to warrant the cost ($559.00 up here in the frozen expensive North.)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pdastoor on September 26, 2016, 03:18:35 PM
I took mine out for the first time last night for Sara Watkins at the Grey Eagle in Asheville and ran DPA 4023 directly into it. On the same stand, I also ran DPA 4028 > V3 > 744. I'll post some samples and some more thoughts later, but it was easy to run and monitor/tweak levels.

Thanks in advance. I'm trying to figure out whether to pull the plug on this or not, and I really want to know that the preamps are terrific enough to warrant the cost ($559.00 up here in the frozen expensive North.)

I got mine from ebay, free shipping and saved alot of money too. It ended up being $490 CDN total and I told the seller to put the value at $25 so that I wouldn't have to pay duties lol
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 26, 2016, 03:33:11 PM
I took mine out for the first time last night for Sara Watkins at the Grey Eagle in Asheville and ran DPA 4023 directly into it. On the same stand, I also ran DPA 4028 > V3 > 744. I'll post some samples and some more thoughts later, but it was easy to run and monitor/tweak levels.

Thanks in advance. I'm trying to figure out whether to pull the plug on this or not, and I really want to know that the preamps are terrific enough to warrant the cost ($559.00 up here in the frozen expensive North.)

I got mine from ebay, free shipping and saved alot of money too. It ended up being $490 CDN total and I told the seller to put the value at $25 so that I wouldn't have to pay duties lol

Was it a USA dealer? I don't know any of them that will do free shipping to Canada.

More importantly, what's your verdict on the preamps (and the int mics also, if you used them)?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: pdastoor on September 26, 2016, 05:12:29 PM
Yes it was from USA, I haven't tested out the preamps yet as I have lots of other gear that needs to be tested out but i'll do a test soon. It was one of those rare deals on ebay that you see for cheap. I got a Roland r-05 the other day on ebay, brand new in box for under $170 CDN

Quote

Was it a USA dealer? I don't know any of them that will do free shipping to Canada.

More importantly, what's your verdict on the preamps (and the int mics also, if you used them)?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on September 29, 2016, 08:11:36 PM
Not sure how I missed it before, but there's a picture of the opamp used in the DR-100mkIII right on the product page (http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/overview/):

(http://tascam.com/content/images/universal/misc/dr-100mkiii-1.jpg)

As suspected, these are the same TI OPA1652 opamps used in the DR-701D (http://tascam.com/product/dr-701d/overview/).
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 30, 2016, 09:27:36 AM
Not sure how I missed it before, but there's a picture of the opamp used in the DR-100mkIII right on the product page (http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/overview/):

(http://tascam.com/content/images/universal/misc/dr-100mkiii-1.jpg)

As suspected, these are the same TI OPA1652 opamps used in the DR-701D (http://tascam.com/product/dr-701d/overview/).

Good spotting. Do these TI OPA1652 opamps bring the DR-100mkIII up to the quality of your modded DR70D?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on September 30, 2016, 06:37:58 PM
Not sure how I missed it before, but there's a picture of the opamp used in the DR-100mkIII right on the product page (http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/overview/):

(http://tascam.com/content/images/universal/misc/dr-100mkiii-1.jpg)

As suspected, these are the same TI OPA1652 opamps used in the DR-701D (http://tascam.com/product/dr-701d/overview/).

Good spotting. Do these TI OPA1652 opamps bring the DR-100mkIII up to the quality of your modded DR70D?

That would be impossible to say without a controlled A/B comparison, and the opamps are only one part of the equation, of course - the mod also added some Wima poly caps. 

The LME49720 opamps used in the Jim Williams mod for the 70D have specs a bit better than the OPA1652 in a few places, particularly in slew rate.  On the other hand, the AKM AK4558 digital conversion chips in the 100mkIII certainly look superior in most aspects to the the Cirrus Logic CS42L52-CNZ used in the 70D. 

I'd be more interested to hear if the 100mkIII can allow higher gain at lower noise levels than the other Tascam recorders or those from other brands in this price bracket.  Jim told me that the noise in the 70D that is noticeable in the HIGH+ range is mainly due to the input transistors.  I'd have to imagine that part of the preamp circuit for the 701D and the 100mkIII got a redesign as well.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 30, 2016, 08:51:11 PM
I haven't tested out the preamps yet

Any chance you could just put the DR-100mkIII into record at high gain and stick it under a pillow for a minute?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: gewwang on October 01, 2016, 01:14:28 AM
I took mine out for the first time last night for Sara Watkins at the Grey Eagle in Asheville and ran DPA 4023 directly into it. On the same stand, I also ran DPA 4028 > V3 > 744. I'll post some samples and some more thoughts later, but it was easy to run and monitor/tweak levels.

Here are the samples from my first run:

https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530 (https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530)

both sources were run on the same stand right in front of the soundboard

for Mikaela Davis 4023>dr100mkIII, the levels were set to L:34.5 R:33.5
for Sara Watkins 4023>dr100mkIII, the levels were set to L:24 R:24

for Mikaela Davis 4028>v3>744t, the v3 levels were set to 40, 744t at normal gain/10 oclock
for Sara Watkins 4028>v3>744t, the v3 levels were set to 30, 744t at normal gain/1 oclock
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on October 01, 2016, 08:15:05 AM
I took mine out for the first time last night for Sara Watkins at the Grey Eagle in Asheville and ran DPA 4023 directly into it. On the same stand, I also ran DPA 4028 > V3 > 744. I'll post some samples and some more thoughts later, but it was easy to run and monitor/tweak levels.

Here are the samples from my first run:

https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530 (https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530)

both sources were run on the same stand right in front of the soundboard

for Mikaela Davis 4023>dr100mkIII, the levels were set to L:34.5 R:33.5
for Sara Watkins 4023>dr100mkIII, the levels were set to L:24 R:24

for Mikaela Davis 4028>v3>744t, the v3 levels were set to 40, 744t at normal gain/10 oclock
for Sara Watkins 4028>v3>744t, the v3 levels were set to 30, 744t at normal gain/1 oclock

Thanks so much for these tracks.

I spent more time listening to the Sara Watkins tracks. At first I was amazed at how close the quality of recordings were. For example both captured the bass drum really well.

Then I began to favour the smoothness from the 744T; the track sounded as if it had already been mixed and the rough edges taken off.

Yet after continuing to switch between takes, I now appreciate the "live-ness" of the DR100mkIII track. There seems to be more energy in the highs, but mids and lows are still taken care of.

Considering what it was going up against, I thought the DR100mkIII did a great job and this puts me one step closer to buying one. But I still want to hear the new Zoom F4.

Thanks again, gewwang, for putting these up.

EDIT: Was the DR100mkIII recording at 24/96?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: gewwang on October 01, 2016, 08:24:26 AM
I took mine out for the first time last night for Sara Watkins at the Grey Eagle in Asheville and ran DPA 4023 directly into it. On the same stand, I also ran DPA 4028 > V3 > 744. I'll post some samples and some more thoughts later, but it was easy to run and monitor/tweak levels.

Here are the samples from my first run:

https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530 (https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530)

both sources were run on the same stand right in front of the soundboard

for Mikaela Davis 4023>dr100mkIII, the levels were set to L:34.5 R:33.5
for Sara Watkins 4023>dr100mkIII, the levels were set to L:24 R:24

for Mikaela Davis 4028>v3>744t, the v3 levels were set to 40, 744t at normal gain/10 oclock
for Sara Watkins 4028>v3>744t, the v3 levels were set to 30, 744t at normal gain/1 oclock

Thanks so much for these tracks.

I spent more time listening to the Sara Watkins tracks. At first I was amazed at how close the quality of recordings were. For example both captured the bass drum really well.

Then I began to favour the smoothness from the 744T; the track sounded as if it had already been mixed and the rough edges taken off.

Yet after continuing to switch between takes, I now appreciate the "live-ness" of the DR100mkIII track. There seems to be more energy in the highs, but mids and lows are still taken care of.

Considering what it was going up against, I thought the DR100mkIII did a great job and this puts me one step closer to buying one. But I still want to hear the new Zoom F4.

Thanks again, gewwang, for putting these up.

no problem. thanks for the feedback.

keep in mind, the 4023s are cards and 4028s are subcards. if i had two sets of cards, it would've helped the comparison. in this setting - small room - i think the advantage goes to the subcards over the cards.

next open show, i might run the 4023s thru my sonosax which has 2 sets of analog outs that can input the 744 and the dr100 at the same time.

i am definitely satisfied with the dr100 preamp and as an all in one for the price point. i am going to start stealthing with this over the 744 based on this first run and the much lighter/smaller box size.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on October 01, 2016, 11:02:22 AM
i am definitely satisfied with the dr100 preamp and as an all in one for the price point. i am going to start stealthing with this over the 744 based on this first run and the much lighter/smaller box size.

I agree that if one wants to go out the door with just two mics and a recorder, it looks like the DR100mkIII will give great results.

Was the DR100mkIII recording at 24/96?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SoundManJohn365 on October 10, 2016, 02:28:58 PM
Hi All, thanks for this informative topic. I finally joined Tapers Section after being a reader for many years 8)

I took the plunge for a DR-100 MKIII after being the owner of an original DR-100 for 6 years. I just wanted to chime in my own impressions. As others have said, it is obvious Tascam put all they had into this one. Its a significant improvement over the first two incarnations and is probably the best portable recorder in its class in terms of features and sound quality.

For those who are interested I wrote up a brief (non-technical) review which includes some recording samples: http://maaheli.ee/main/tascam-dr-100mkiii-quick-review/
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: refrain on October 10, 2016, 05:06:39 PM

For those who are interested I wrote up a brief (non-technical) review which includes some recording samples: http://maaheli.ee/main/tascam-dr-100mkiii-quick-review/

Hi John :-)

Nice to see you here, thanks for your review, my H4n just died, and I'm looking for a replacement (point and capture sound, in my daily bag) I was thinking about the sony PCM100 for their internal mics, and 1/8" input for plugin power mics and piezos, same thing as you, but the price.... I have a Dr70D for XY - ORTF setup with externals mounted on tripod. Very much interested on your test with the internals (cardiod), are you going to publish here the results?

Best,
Carlos Santos
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SoundManJohn365 on October 11, 2016, 09:27:29 AM
Nice to see you here too Carlos!

For you and others here are some quick ambient recordings with the internal mics on the mkIII. The tracks are labeled 'uni' and 'omni'. All were recorded at maximum +44 gain with 'Dual ADC' on and the 'FIR2' A/D filter. No adjustments afterward.
https://mega.nz/#!2tt1lDpZ!wXhz6LTNL4YuOi_8aSPjeMl9UuyL0-p9EX5KQYx2cnw

On the outside tracks the kids are playing by a school about 100m away and the guy chopping wood is about 50m away. On the inside tracks the ticking clocks are 2m from the recorder.

Personally I'd say the 'uni' mics are quite good and usable for general purposes. The 'omni' mics are there but you'd be much better off using a pair of external electrets like the Primo EM172s.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: gewwang on October 11, 2016, 10:39:23 AM
Ran DPA 4028 > DR-100mkIII up front for Anderson Rabin Wakeman at a performing arts center on Sunday and should have some samples up later today. Very impressed with this as a stealth machine. The hold button holds all buttons and the levels so you can take it out of or put back into cargo shorts pocket or hoody pocket without worries. The footprint is a bit long with the DPA XLRs connected thru the bottom of the deck but I like that I can stealth this in a hoody without using a fanny pack like I've done for so long with the SD 722/44. So far I've been running with the A/D setting set to FIR1 only because I don't know what any of the settings are and that's the one that it comes set to out of the box.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: 2manyrocks on October 11, 2016, 12:21:46 PM
I was surprised at how close the 744/dr100 recordings of Sara Watkins came out.    What's your take on the mkiii metering in comparison to the 744's fantastic (IMO) metering? 
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: noam on October 11, 2016, 01:55:44 PM
For those who are interested I wrote up a brief (non-technical) review which includes some recording samples: http://maaheli.ee/main/tascam-dr-100mkiii-quick-review/

You write in the review: "It may not be a Sound Devices series 7" - I use the 702; I don't care about price, just size. In what way is it inferior to the 702?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on October 11, 2016, 03:00:52 PM
Ran DPA 4028 > DR-100mkIII up front for Anderson Rabin Wakeman at a performing arts center on Sunday and should have some samples up later today. Very impressed with this as a stealth machine. The hold button holds all buttons and the levels so you can take it out of or put back into cargo shorts pocket or hoody pocket without worries. The footprint is a bit long with the DPA XLRs connected thru the bottom of the deck but I like that I can stealth this in a hoody without using a fanny pack like I've done for so long with the SD 722/44. So far I've been running with the A/D setting set to FIR1 only because I don't know what any of the settings are and that's the one that it comes set to out of the box.

Are you recording at 24/96?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: gewwang on October 11, 2016, 03:07:58 PM
I was surprised at how close the 744/dr100 recordings of Sara Watkins came out.    What's your take on the mkiii metering in comparison to the 744's fantastic (IMO) metering?

stock photo: (http://tascam.com/content/images/universal/product_detail/912/medium/dr-100mk3_p_front.jpg)

there are 2 settings in the menu for peak level display. i set the peak level at -0.1dB (other options are -0.2db, -1.0db, -2.0db) and the hold time set at 1 sec (other options are 'off' and 'hold'). so the L and R meters always flash the peak level for a second, then update. the only time I changed levels was when i saw an over. if you see an 'over', it quickly updates after 1 second. since i was stealthing, i just decreased levels once when the music started and i saw an 'over', after that i ignored balancing channels and peaks were jumping around but never exceeding -0.5dB on either channel. First song was 'Perpetual Change' which is loud at the beginning so I felt pretty confident that I wouldn't need to adjust again the rest of the set.

the levels aren't the bright green, yellow and red LEDs like on the SD boxes, but that's actually a positive when trying to be discreet.

Are you recording at 24/96?

Yes

Each 2GB file is about 1hr 2 min.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: gewwang on October 12, 2016, 09:44:18 PM
Here are some tracks from my 2nd outing:

Anderson, Rabin, and Wakeman (ARW)
Durham Performing Arts Center, Durham, NC
Oct. 9, 2016

Section 2, Row L ~11th row stack

DPA 4028 > DR-100mkIII

I engaged the mic pad setting - the levels ended up at +20.5dB

https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/2016-10-09-sample-track-1
https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/2016-10-09-sample-track-2
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: TSNéa on October 13, 2016, 10:42:35 PM
http://transom.org/2016/tascam-dr-100mkii-2/
It's about the MKIII as you could not guess from the name of the Transom page  ???
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on October 14, 2016, 12:34:13 PM
Has anyone with this recorder done the firmware update for the DR100mkIII?

http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/downloads/

The Transom review reveals battery and headphone problems.

I was wondering if the firmware might increase the low battery life of the two AA's (something I believe they did with another TASCAM recorder by new firmware).

The low headphone output as described in the Transom review is especially troubling for outdoor recording but I assume that it cannot be fixed with firmware even if it is digitally controlled.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: 2manyrocks on October 15, 2016, 03:40:14 PM
What I find most surprising about the Transom review is the mkiii apparently has a fixed internal battery.  I would hate to spend $399 on the mkiii and then have the internal battery fail in 2-3 years.  Can you even open up the case to replace it?  Is a replacement internal battery available?  Is it a proprietary battery only available from Tascam?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Kamen on October 15, 2016, 08:29:37 PM
To follow up with Jeff Townes' review of the Mk3, I'm rather shocked at the monitoring issue he reports (single mic tracking to one track = mono monitor output to one channel only). It's surprising given the monitoring flexibility on the Dr60, 70, 701, etc. And we haven't even started with M/S monitoring (although according to the manual, the relevant options are available).

I thing I'll stick to my D100 (and save up for a USBPre2).


(Btw, this was my first post on TS - Hi, everybody.)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: fransb on October 16, 2016, 07:04:09 AM
The internal battery can easily be removed according to the Owners Manual. See also the attached screenshot from the manual.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: gewwang on October 16, 2016, 03:13:05 PM
I ran line in from a sonosax the past two nights at Phish in Charleston and have some sample tracks coming. The first night, I taped for about 3.5 hours and the lithium battery ran down to 1/4 of the batt level indicator. In all 4 of my outings so far, the recorder hasn't even gotten to the AA batteries.

https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/ph2016-10-14dpa4028d1t04 (https://soundcloud.com/user-499246530/ph2016-10-14dpa4028d1t04)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on October 17, 2016, 05:57:05 PM
There was an update about the headphone output in the Transom.org review:

"UPDATE! A helpful reader pointed out that there’s a new headphone level control, in addition to the thumbwheel on the side of the recorder. It’s semi-hidden in a menu: I/O SETTINGS>>OUTPUT ATT. On most recorders, output attenuation will simply reduce the output level of the mini-jack line-out, which is helpful when feeding audio to a video camera. And this menu will let you control that level, but there’s ALSO a setting for headphone output level. The overall headphone volume can be reduced by 10 or 16 dB, or there’s a setting called “EAR PROTECTION.”  The recorder’s default settings have “ear protection” selected, which drops the output level significantly.  Set the headphone output attenuation to zero, and you’ll get plenty of sound in the headphones."
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on October 17, 2016, 06:00:43 PM
To follow up with Jeff Townes' review of the Mk3, I'm rather shocked at the monitoring issue he reports (single mic tracking to one track = mono monitor output to one channel only). It's surprising given the monitoring flexibility on the Dr60, 70, 701, etc. And we haven't even started with M/S monitoring (although according to the manual, the relevant options are available).

I thing I'll stick to my D100 (and save up for a USBPre2).


(Btw, this was my first post on TS - Hi, everybody.)

There was also an update re mono recording in Jeff Towne's review:

"UPDATE! Another helpful reader asked if there was a downside to using “MONO-MIX” (set in the FILETYPE menu) when recording with only one microphone. This mode combines the left and right channels into a mono file, and routes sound from each input equally to both channels of the headphones.  In theory, this is bad practice: recording an “empty” track into the mono mix file can add noise. This used to be a real problem on some older recorders.   But in practice, on the DR-100mkIII, any noise created by the unused channel is so low that it’s inconsequential, so using mono-mix mode when recording with one mic is a viable workaround.  Just to be safe, I’d recommend turning the input gain down on the unused channel, the new Input level switch makes that easy to do."
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: flatbroker on October 29, 2016, 03:34:45 PM
I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.
New member with a brand new dr100 mkiii.  My intent was to use the line in to record raw M/S array from a sd302 and monitor as decoded stereo through the dr100 mkiii.  I can'tell get M/S decoding function to work as it should.  It does not work at all if it is selected and set up through the menu system.  It will work as a function if you change either the mid or side level and remain in the function window.  As soon as you exit the function window to monitor recording levels the unit reverts to monitoring the undecoded raw inputs.  It sounds like you have it working.  What am I doing wrong?  My unit arrived with firmware version 1.01, so it is up to date.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on October 29, 2016, 10:56:19 PM
I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.
New member with a brand new dr100 mkiii.  My intent was to use the line in to record raw M/S array from a sd302 and monitor as decoded stereo through the dr100 mkiii.  I can'tell get M/S decoding function to work as it should.  It does not work at all if it is selected and set up through the menu system.  It will work as a function if you change either the mid or side level and remain in the function window.  As soon as you exit the function window to monitor recording levels the unit reverts to monitoring the undecoded raw inputs.  It sounds like you have it working.  What am I doing wrong?  My unit arrived with firmware version 1.01, so it is up to date.
Hello- When you select ms decode in the menu or function menu by pressing the enter button you should be at the top of the ms decode page where it says mode. Press the enter button again and you will have three selections: off, rec and monitor. You can scroll among the three selections by using the scroll wheel. Select rec and press the enter button if you want to record the decoded stereo signal. Select monitor and press the enter button if you want to record the ms signal but want to monitor the decoded stereo signal. You can widen or narrow the recorded or monitored decoded stereo signal by adjusting the mid and side gains below the mode selector.
    Having used this recorder several times now and having owned a multitude of recorders for the past 38 years I can say that this is the best sounding full functioned reasonably priced handheld all in one stereo recorder that I have come across. It is so nice not to have to lug around additional preamps, a/d convertors, batteries etc. I recorded a four hour show the other night using 48v phantom and still had juice left on the built in battery.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: flatbroker on October 30, 2016, 12:39:35 AM
I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.
New member with a brand new dr100 mkiii.  My intent was to use the line in to record raw M/S array from a sd302 and monitor as decoded stereo through the dr100 mkiii.  I can'tell get M/S decoding function to work as it should.  It does not work at all if it is selected and set up through the menu system.  It will work as a function if you change either the mid or side level and remain in the function window.  As soon as you exit the function window to monitor recording levels the unit reverts to monitoring the undecoded raw inputs.  It sounds like you have it working.  What am I doing wrong?  My unit arrived with firmware version 1.01, so it is up to date.
Hello- When you select ms decode in the menu or function menu by pressing the enter button you should be at the top of the ms decode page where it says mode. Press the enter button again and you will have three selections: off, rec and monitor. You can scroll among the three selections by using the scroll wheel. Select rec and press the enter button if you want to record the decoded stereo signal. Select monitor and press the enter button if you want to record the ms signal but want to monitor the decoded stereo signal. You can widen or narrow the recorded or monitored decoded stereo signal by adjusting the mid and side gains below the mode selector.
Yes, that is how it is supposed to work.  Mine is set (from the menu) to monitor the decoded signal, but it doesn't work.  I can clearly hear the mid mic on the left channel and the side mic on the right.  I can enter the function menu while recording and select monitor m/s and it still doesn't work unless I select and change the gain level of the mid or side channel.  As soon as I change either of them the signal is decoded, but upon exiting the function menu the monitored sound returns to mid mic on the left and side mic on the right.  Maybe my unit is messed up, since it sounds like you aren't having this issue.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: flatbroker on October 30, 2016, 01:50:36 AM
I love the m/s monitoring. The metering is good.
New member with a brand new dr100 mkiii.  My intent was to use the line in to record raw M/S array from a sd302 and monitor as decoded stereo through the dr100 mkiii.  I can'tell get M/S decoding function to work as it should.  It does not work at all if it is selected and set up through the menu system.  It will work as a function if you change either the mid or side level and remain in the function window.  As soon as you exit the function window to monitor recording levels the unit reverts to monitoring the undecoded raw inputs.  It sounds like you have it working.  What am I doing wrong?  My unit arrived with firmware version 1.01, so it is up to date.
Hello- When you select ms decode in the menu or function menu by pressing the enter button you should be at the top of the ms decode page where it says mode. Press the enter button again and you will have three selections: off, rec and monitor. You can scroll among the three selections by using the scroll wheel. Select rec and press the enter button if you want to record the decoded stereo signal. Select monitor and press the enter button if you want to record the ms signal but want to monitor the decoded stereo signal. You can widen or narrow the recorded or monitored decoded stereo signal by adjusting the mid and side gains below the mode selector.
Yes, that is how it is supposed to work.  Mine is set (from the menu) to monitor the decoded signal, but it doesn't work.  I can clearly hear the mid mic on the left channel and the side mic on the right.  I can enter the function menu while recording and select monitor m/s and it still doesn't work unless I select and change the gain level of the mid or side channel.  As soon as I change either of them the signal is decoded, but upon exiting the function menu the monitored sound returns to mid mic on the left and side mic on the right.  Maybe my unit is messed up, since it sounds like you aren't having this issue.
I just figured it out what my problem is.  It only works with input set to mic.  It does not work with input set to line.  Hopefully Tascam will add m/s decoding for line inputs in a firmware update.  Thanks for your help.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on October 30, 2016, 07:54:01 AM
Having used this recorder several times now and having owned a multitude of recorders for the past 38 years I can say that this is the best sounding full functioned reasonably priced handheld all in one stereo recorder that I have come across. It is so nice not to have to lug around additional preamps, a/d convertors, batteries etc. I recorded a four hour show the other night using 48v phantom and still had juice left on the built in battery.

Would you say it is in the same league as a Marantz or a Sound Devices or even a DR680?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on October 30, 2016, 10:14:28 AM
Would you say it is in the same league as a Marantz or a Sound Devices or even a DR680?
[/quote]
I have never had the Marantz but I recently sold My DR-680mkII after I bought the Zoom F8 and yes it easily is in that league. I also have
a mixpre  and a usbpre2. I would sell the mixpre but they sell for so little these days. I certainly don't feel the need to use the mixpre in
front of the DR-100 mkII. I am also toying with the idea of selling the usbpre2 but I like the idea of making two identical recordings using
digi coax out to the Tascam and optical out to my Sony D50. The usbpre2 can also be used as an interface. It really is a fine box. If I didn't
already own the usbpre2 I wouldn't run out and buy one just to put in front of the Tascam.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on October 30, 2016, 11:02:55 AM
I have never had the Marantz but I recently sold My DR-680mkII after I bought the Zoom F8 and yes it easily is in that league. I also have
a mixpre  and a usbpre2. I would sell the mixpre but they sell for so little these days. I certainly don't feel the need to use the mixpre in
front of the DR-100 mkII. I am also toying with the idea of selling the usbpre2 but I like the idea of making two identical recordings using
digi coax out to the Tascam and optical out to my Sony D50. The usbpre2 can also be used as an interface. It really is a fine box. If I didn't
already own the usbpre2 I wouldn't run out and buy one just to put in front of the Tascam.

Thanks for that assessment. There has been so little written about the DR-100mkIII (I assume that when you wrote "mkII" in your reply it was a typo).

How does it compare to your F8?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on October 30, 2016, 02:21:46 PM
 Typo indeed. Sorry. It is DR100mkiii. Love the F8. The pres are also squeaky clean. I am actually using it as a back up Wednesday and Thursday nights for a paid multi track recording. I'll be coming out of a true systems 8 channel preamp. This preamp has two sets of outputs for each channel.
.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on October 30, 2016, 02:40:01 PM
Typo indeed. Sorry. It is DR100mkiii. Love the F8. The pres are also squeaky clean. I am actually using it as a back up Wednesday and Thursday nights for a paid multi track recording. I'll be coming out of a true systems 8 channel preamp. This preamp has two sets of outputs for each channel.

Sounds like a great opportunity for a comparison.

Did you mean that the pres on the DR100mkiii are as squeaky clean as the F8?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on October 30, 2016, 05:40:07 PM
Typo indeed. Sorry. It is DR100mkiii. Love the F8. The pres are also squeaky clean. I am actually using it as a back up Wednesday and Thursday nights for a paid multi track recording. I'll be coming out of a true systems 8 channel preamp. This preamp has two sets of outputs for each channel.

Sounds like a great opportunity for a comparison.

Did you mean that the pres on the DR100mkiii are as squeaky clean as the F8?
They're clean. I haven't had a chance to do a direct comparison nor am I that concerned. Every so often I get to work
with a classical guitarist in a good hall. Maybe I'll try then.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: KenP on November 03, 2016, 11:18:36 AM
I bought a Tascam DR 100 Mk 3 for £306 a week ago and have just noticed it is now £401 from the same store.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: robin0112358 on November 09, 2016, 07:20:18 PM
I bought a Tascam DR 100 Mk 3 for £306 a week ago and have just noticed it is now £401 from the same store.

Perhaps you can thank your Brexit for that.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 10, 2016, 07:55:19 AM
I bought a Tascam DR 100 Mk 3 for £306 a week ago and have just noticed it is now £401 from the same store.

Perhaps you can thank your Brexit for that.

Brexit or not, it's still £306.00 here [no affiliation]:

https://www.scan.co.uk/products/tascam-dr-100mkiii-professional-handheld-recorder-24bit-192khz-dual-recording-4x-built-in-hq-condens

Soon they'll be blaming the weather on Brexit.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: robin0112358 on November 10, 2016, 09:27:41 AM
Soon they'll be blaming the weather on Brexit.

After Brexit the value of the pound sterling declined against other currencies. This means that all goods coming into the UK will now be more expensive. The price of portable recorders, none of which are made in the UK, will all go up. However, some dealers will still have stock purchased before the currency devaluation. Some dealers will sell them as before, while others might hike the price for extra profit. This is why prices will be different at different dealers. (Besides all the other factors.)

I wouldn't think I'd have to explain such basic matters here. Brexit does indeed negatively effect the UK economy and the price of good. Sorry, but it has nothing to do with the weather.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 10, 2016, 10:40:01 AM
Soon they'll be blaming the weather on Brexit.

After Brexit the value of the pound sterling declined against other currencies. This means that all goods coming into the UK will now be more expensive. The price of portable recorders, none of which are made in the UK, will all go up. However, some dealers will still have stock purchased before the currency devaluation. Some dealers will sell them as before, while others might hike the price for extra profit. This is why prices will be different at different dealers. (Besides all the other factors.)

I wouldn't think I'd have to explain such basic matters here. Brexit does indeed negatively effect the UK economy and the price of good. Sorry, but it has nothing to do with the weather.

Sorry but your objections to Brexit don't apply in this case. The Brexit vote was on June 23, 2016. Its effect on the pound had already occurred by the time the Tascam DR-100MKIII was available for sale in the UK in October. UK retailers would have paid for their units in the already devalued currency.

So Brexit is not an explanation for the differences in UK prices of the Tascam DR-100MKIII. And in fact the average UK price is about £349.99. That translates to about $435.00 in US dollars and is very close to the US street price of $399.99. Nothing to complain about.

The jury is still out on Brexit. It's true that a devalued currency can increase the cost of imported goods, but it also helps exporters, making their products more competitive, and with their increased sales, it can actually work to stimulate the UK economy.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: aaronji on November 10, 2016, 11:17:18 AM
^ That doesn't appear to be the case thus far (https://www.theguardian.com/business/2016/nov/09/uk-trade-deficit-widens-september-exports-fall-pound-drop), and, in the longer term, probably assumes that the particulars of the exit allow unfettered access to the European market (which accounts for about 50% of UK exports).  And that's something I wouldn't bet on...
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: robin0112358 on November 10, 2016, 01:33:38 PM
Sorry but your objections to Brexit don't apply in this case.

You seem to be turning this into a political discussion that is out of place here. I have given no objections to Brexit but would be happy to elsewhere.

I have only stated facts about the currency changes, which can be substantiated by looking on any currency trader site. That the market reacted to the political turmoil before the actual vote is quite normal. The fact that Brexit was being taken seriously at all was enough to spook people who rely on the exchange of goods and services. Not very hard to understand.

The jury is still out on Brexit.

Not if you talk to a banker or economist it isn't. Random people in the street might be another thing.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: robin0112358 on November 10, 2016, 01:36:43 PM
I actually came back here not to talk politics or economics but simply to post a link to my article (http://www.theatreofnoise.com/2016/11/tascam-dr-100-mkiii-recorder.html) on the Tascam recorder, largely derived from my readings of the manual and not in any way from personal use.

Thanks to those on this board who have provided useful information.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 10, 2016, 05:08:42 PM

You seem to be turning this into a political discussion that is out of place here. I have given no objections to Brexit but would be happy to elsewhere.


It was the other way around. You were the one that first brought Brexit into the discussion in reply to a member's observation on the price of the DR100mkiii. You said:

"Perhaps you can thank your Brexit for that." No one else had mentioned Brexit.

I did a little research and found that your statement was untrue.

And not all economists share your point of view:

http://www.economistsforbrexit.co.uk/


Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 10, 2016, 05:25:18 PM
^ That doesn't appear to be the case thus far (https://www.theguardian.com/business/2016/nov/09/uk-trade-deficit-widens-september-exports-fall-pound-drop), and, in the longer term, probably assumes that the particulars of the exit allow unfettered access to the European market (which accounts for about 50% of UK exports).  And that's something I wouldn't bet on...

"Many economists prior to the referendum had been predicting an immediate and significant impact on the UK economy and consumer confidence should the country vote to leave the EU. But so far these predictions have not come to pass."--  http://www.bbc.com/news/business-36956418
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on November 10, 2016, 06:41:34 PM
What happened to meaningful dialog about this wonderful recorder?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Kamen on November 10, 2016, 10:49:53 PM
Aaaah, take iteasy, relax, format your media, recharge your batteries, make good tapes, people. 

http://www.thedailymash.co.uk/news/international/relieved-britain-no-longer-biggest-fk-up-of-2016-20161109116771

To get back on topic, can anyone with hands-on experience with the Mk3 chime in about the built-in mics' performance wrt the external mics pres? The Transom review finds them built-ins a bit noisier, but I guess you really need to check for yourself. Any impressions?

Otherwise, the Mk3 is shaping up as great piece of kit. Almost a D100-killer. I wouldn't expect better mics and pres from it, but it seems to have all other features down pat -two pres per mic for the limiter circuit, similar noise floor, 192 kBs, plus XLRs with phantom. Now cut the price in half, make sure you don't mess up QC again, and you've got a winner.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 11, 2016, 09:20:50 AM
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adJqz3eZ-xM

---------

Moving on......

Further to the matter of the internal battery which is in fact removable, albeit not too easily, I contacted TASCAM for the specs of that battery and received this information:

Model: CP-1S1P-3950JM
Manufacturer: Welltech Energy Inc
3.6 Volts, 3950 mAh, 14.22 Whr
4.2VDC

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: 2manyrocks on November 11, 2016, 02:17:10 PM
I'm not finding much on that battery except for a korean manufacturer website.  Not sure we could get that battery anywhere but from Tascam practically speaking.  Any word from Tascam on the cost?

Depending on the size and connectors, maybe some other battery could be substituted?  I'm not a fan of proprietary internal batteries that may be hard to come by at a reasonable price in a few years.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 11, 2016, 05:29:44 PM
I'm not finding much on that battery except for a korean manufacturer website.  Not sure we could get that battery anywhere but from Tascam practically speaking.  Any word from Tascam on the cost?

Depending on the size and connectors, maybe some other battery could be substituted?  I'm not a fan of proprietary internal batteries that may be hard to come by at a reasonable price in a few years.

I agree completely, and I didn't have any more luck than you in tracking down that battery.

I emailed who I think was the manufacturer (or distributor) about where to buy it. I'll let you know if I get a reply.

I'll also email Tascam customer service again and ask if they will be selling it.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: chaperoni on November 16, 2016, 12:21:22 PM
I've seen a review mention that this can be powered by USB battery pack, but the manual only lists the official tascam AA powered external battery pack. Would this work with a regular rechargeable USB power pack as well? That would mitigate some issues with the internal battery in the future.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 16, 2016, 01:42:26 PM
I've seen a review mention that this can be powered by USB battery pack, but the manual only lists the official tascam AA powered external battery pack. Would this work with a regular rechargeable USB power pack as well? That would mitigate some issues with the internal battery in the future.

Yes it does. I just this morning tested out my new DR100MKIII with an ebay USB battery pack and it worked fine. I plugged in the fully charged pack first, and then turned on the DR100MKIII. It immediately powered from the pack and ran for about 4 hours in playback while simultaneously recharging the internal battery. Later I'll test it in record mode.

This is the pack I was using (no affiliation):

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/20000mAh-Ultrathin-Portable-External-Battery-Charger-Power-Bank-for-Phone-JL-/162230898178?var=&hash=item25c5b70e02:m:mmpwnYVZ_iw899ar2-oHZ6A


Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 21, 2016, 11:26:05 AM
I have grave news for those who thought that there wasn't a ghost of a chance that they would buy the DR100MKIII and that the matter was dead and buried.

There can't be a better recommendation for any digital recorder than this review from the B&H product page:

" Love the DR-100MKIII
By Gavin
 
Hello, my name is Gavin Kelly. Host and Lead Investigator for Amazon's new original series called "The Paranormal Journey:Into the Unknown." We've been using the DR-100MKIII to capture audio from the Unseen. There are digital recorders other teams use to record voices of the dead. But we choose the DR-100MKIII. The On Board Mics are superb. It can record footsteps from the next floor up when no one is even in the building. We've captured substantial EVP's using this digital recorder. Upon evaluating the audio files, it's nice to have two files of the same recording. One is recorded just in case for our sake there is someone shouting or there was a loud noise during the recording which could cancel out the EVP. Thankfully with this technology we don't have to worry. We just place it and leave the building. Let the DR-100MKIII capture the voices of the un-dead for us. "

Take that you signal-to-noise fanatics! This thing records The Great Beyond!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: 2manyrocks on November 21, 2016, 05:40:53 PM
calling Dr. Venkman...
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mjwin on November 24, 2016, 03:01:50 PM
Hi fellow tapers, I'm new here but have lurked behind the scenes for a while & read through the *whole of this thread* before making the decision to buy a DR100mk3!  I just wanted to say that this forum has been by far the most useful source of info I've found on this device so thanks to everyone!  I don't want to repeat what's already been said, but FWIW:

First impressions

The DR100mk3 is certainly solid and the design appears well thought through (or evolved, since it's mk3 after all).  The ergonomics are great. It's a tad bulky, but couldn't really be any smaller without compromising connectivity and all of the tactile controls. Having a real switch for phantom power is so useful & the fact that this requires an "ok" confirmation prevents accidentally blasting the inputs with 48V while recording!

Originally I was looking for a replacement for a dead Sony M10:(   but that machine was really one of a kind in size, battery life, quality, etc.   I do have an ageing LS10, but the mics are too noisy for the quiet stuff that I record.  My main rig is a Fostex FR2LE, which I love.  I've had this it first came out (9 yrs?) and, although I constantly gnash my teeth  dealing with the dreadful user interface, I've never had a glitch & I know I can rely on it.  Actually, it's great over a shoulder, it's the top panel controls which bug me.

Now, I didn't expect to say this but... the DR100-3 beats the  FR2LE in pretty much every respect.  Size and connectivity win hands down. In terms of sound quality using the XLR inputs, I did a few comparisons using the AT BP4025 stereo mic which I often use for ambiences etc, and I really couldn't hear much difference between the two recorders. If anything, the Tascam has cleaner pres, but  the recorded noise level sounds pretty much identical on both machines.   

I have to say that I'd hoped for lower noise internal mics, but I think I have to accept that built-in mics on handhelds aren't going to offer the kind of quality and low noise that you'd otherwise pay as much again for. They are useable for louder stuff though. When close-up they don't spit & the shockmounting  is very soft: when prodded the mics wiggle around easily within the protective cage. The result is that handling noise is minimal, unless you actually rub the case. With a furry windjammer and the 80Hz Low cut filter on, it's possible to walk around outdoors and not have obtrusive wind noise. The stereo spread is contained, but ok as the mics are actually angled out at 90 degrees inside the mesh, not pointing straight ahead as they appear.  There's good rejection of rearward sound, though the off axis frequency response is rather uneven. I guess this is to be expected. That's why decent mics cost $$$!

I like to measure what I hear (it's the tech background!)  so I've just done a few rough'n'ready (unweighted) noise measurements  and the internal mic noise works out to ~30dB spl.  This is compared  to the BP4025 at ~16dB.  (The 4025 mic noise spec is 14dBA, so my measurements are pretty close). But the really interesting figure is with mic inputs shorted (150R), which shows just the system noise. In comparison with the FR2LE,   the Tascam, is actually *better*, with the equivalent noise  = 1dBSPL  compared to 2.6dBSPL for the FR2LE!  Of course, with a high sensitivity mic like the 4025, these figures are all a bit academic, and taking into account measurement errors, I'd say these were too close to worry about.  But it's good to see that Tascam take this seriously.

Incidentally, Phantom power is completely silent, though I'll have to check this again next halloween...

The figures confirm what I hear:  the internal UNI mics aren't quiet enough for serious low-level recordings.  I think they'd be ok for quick grabs of stuff: close-up recordings to be played back at lower levels, samples,  city ambience, even mountain streams, but not for anything with any kind of "silence" as the backdrop. It's not so much the hiss, but the veiling effect that this has on the sound. 

Finally, another measurement which might be useful, as I don't think this is in the specs.  Plug in power = 2.5V through 2.5K (ie it gives 1mA when shorted).  Pity they couldn't have upped this to 5V. So don't chuck your battery boxes!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 25, 2016, 06:10:42 PM
Hi fellow tapers, I'm new here but have lurked behind the scenes for a while & read through the *whole of this thread* before making the decision to buy a DR100mk3!  I just wanted to say that this forum has been by far the most useful source of info I've found on this device so thanks to everyone!  I don't want to repeat what's already been said, but FWIW:

First impressions

The DR100mk3 is certainly solid and the design appears well thought through (or evolved, since it's mk3 after all).  The ergonomics are great. It's a tad bulky, but couldn't really be any smaller without compromising connectivity and all of the tactile controls. Having a real switch for phantom power is so useful & the fact that this requires an "ok" confirmation prevents accidentally blasting the inputs with 48V while recording!

Originally I was looking for a replacement for a dead Sony M10:(   but that machine was really one of a kind in size, battery life, quality, etc.   I do have an ageing LS10, but the mics are too noisy for the quiet stuff that I record.  My main rig is a Fostex FR2LE, which I love.  I've had this it first came out (9 yrs?) and, although I constantly gnash my teeth  dealing with the dreadful user interface, I've never had a glitch & I know I can rely on it.  Actually, it's great over a shoulder, it's the top panel controls which bug me.

Now, I didn't expect to say this but... the DR100-3 beats the  FR2LE in pretty much every respect.  Size and connectivity win hands down. In terms of sound quality using the XLR inputs, I did a few comparisons using the AT BP4025 stereo mic which I often use for ambiences etc, and I really couldn't hear much difference between the two recorders. If anything, the Tascam has cleaner pres, but  the recorded noise level sounds pretty much identical on both machines.   

I have to say that I'd hoped for lower noise internal mics, but I think I have to accept that built-in mics on handhelds aren't going to offer the kind of quality and low noise that you'd otherwise pay as much again for. They are useable for louder stuff though. When close-up they don't spit & the shockmounting  is very soft: when prodded the mics wiggle around easily within the protective cage. The result is that handling noise is minimal, unless you actually rub the case. With a furry windjammer and the 80Hz Low cut filter on, it's possible to walk around outdoors and not have obtrusive wind noise. The stereo spread is contained, but ok as the mics are actually angled out at 90 degrees inside the mesh, not pointing straight ahead as they appear.  There's good rejection of rearward sound, though the off axis frequency response is rather uneven. I guess this is to be expected. That's why decent mics cost $$$!

I like to measure what I hear (it's the tech background!)  so I've just done a few rough'n'ready (unweighted) noise measurements  and the internal mic noise works out to ~30dB spl.  This is compared  to the BP4025 at ~16dB.  (The 4025 mic noise spec is 14dBA, so my measurements are pretty close). But the really interesting figure is with mic inputs shorted (150R), which shows just the system noise. In comparison with the FR2LE,   the Tascam, is actually *better*, with the equivalent noise  = 1dBSPL  compared to 2.6dBSPL for the FR2LE!  Of course, with a high sensitivity mic like the 4025, these figures are all a bit academic, and taking into account measurement errors, I'd say these were too close to worry about.  But it's good to see that Tascam take this seriously.

Incidentally, Phantom power is completely silent, though I'll have to check this again next halloween...

The figures confirm what I hear:  the internal UNI mics aren't quiet enough for serious low-level recordings.  I think they'd be ok for quick grabs of stuff: close-up recordings to be played back at lower levels, samples,  city ambience, even mountain streams, but not for anything with any kind of "silence" as the backdrop. It's not so much the hiss, but the veiling effect that this has on the sound. 

Finally, another measurement which might be useful, as I don't think this is in the specs.  Plug in power = 2.5V through 2.5K (ie it gives 1mA when shorted).  Pity they couldn't have upped this to 5V. So don't chuck your battery boxes!

Great stuff! Thanks.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: petphi on December 03, 2016, 12:56:57 AM
Power-On problems?

I'm new here (another lurker), and made the decision to buy a DR-100mkiii after finding this thread to be a good early source of information. I have used a MixPre-D / Sony M10 combination for a couple of years, but was looking for a more portable equivalent - one that combined reasonable price with good quality.

Just wondering if any other purchasers of this device have encountered a problem with the device locking up / not powering-on after a couple of days without use, despite a fully charged Li-ion battery?

It's happened a number of times to me (i.e. weekend-warrior fails to fire up the recorder!). I updated the firmware to 1.01 and it still happens. If I plug a USB power source in or add AA batteries, the unit comes back to life (albeit with the date set a few days behind (why?)). After a short while, the unit will resume powering on from Li-ion battery only.

Luckily I have not been caught out without a spare "boot" power source, but this is inconvenient and seems very peculiar! I'm not sure if it might be an isolated problem with the Li-ion battery or the firmware, but thought my experience would be worth sharing.

Apart from that, I really like the recorder! Provides the quality and flexibility I was after; I just want it to be dependable!

Cheers,
Peter

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on December 03, 2016, 04:20:54 AM
Never had that problem but I always have lithium AA batteries loaded in there too.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on December 03, 2016, 07:57:56 AM
Power-On problems?

I'm new here (another lurker), and made the decision to buy a DR-100mkiii after finding this thread to be a good early source of information. I have used a MixPre-D / Sony M10 combination for a couple of years, but was looking for a more portable equivalent - one that combined reasonable price with good quality.

Just wondering if any other purchasers of this device have encountered a problem with the device locking up / not powering-on after a couple of days without use, despite a fully charged Li-ion battery?

It's happened a number of times to me (i.e. weekend-warrior fails to fire up the recorder!). I updated the firmware to 1.01 and it still happens. If I plug a USB power source in or add AA batteries, the unit comes back to life (albeit with the date set a few days behind (why?)). After a short while, the unit will resume powering on from Li-ion battery only.

Luckily I have not been caught out without a spare "boot" power source, but this is inconvenient and seems very peculiar! I'm not sure if it might be an isolated problem with the Li-ion battery or the firmware, but thought my experience would be worth sharing.

Apart from that, I really like the recorder! Provides the quality and flexibility I was after; I just want it to be dependable!

Cheers,
Peter

If it's convenient for you to do so, you should return it and get another unit.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: 2manyrocks on December 03, 2016, 08:43:19 PM
IMO, send it back ASAP. 
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: petphi on December 04, 2016, 03:43:38 AM
Thanks for the feedback, and for the advice dogmusic and 2manyrocks.

I will enquire with the place I bought it from (6 weeks ago) and see what can be done. I am mostly concerned that I'll get the "return to manufacturer" run-around, and thus be without the device for weeks (especially over the Christmas holiday period), but let's see...

Cheers,
Peter.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on December 05, 2016, 03:00:14 PM
Here's a link to a short test recording I made on my piano with the "UNI" internal mics on the DR100MKIII.

The record level was 16.0 for both channels. The DR100MKIII was placed on the centre of the music stand laid flat and was aimed toward the tail. It's a 24/96 wav file.

https://app.box.com/s/4hnp9kk60bxpb2nx3wrsi5gbaxjytab1
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: noahbickart on December 05, 2016, 03:01:18 PM
Maybe I missed it, but has anyone been able to get one of these recorders to lock onto a digi signal from a Mini-Me?

I was going to try this: https://www.amazon.com/Neutrik-NADITBNC-FX-Female-cable-input/dp/B01JUVQW9C/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480968040&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Neutrik+NADITBNC-FX so as to use the aes out.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on December 13, 2016, 07:14:50 AM
Here's an online album that I recorded in October with a DR-100mkIII and an Audio-Technica at4050st.
https://jasonanick.bandcamp.com/album/rhythm-future-quartet-live-at-49-west-2
For a 2 piece rig that ran me about $1000 I find it quite acceptable. There is an abundance of red hot
fiddle and guitar playing on this recording.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: theGeneral on December 14, 2016, 01:54:32 PM
Maybe I missed it, but has anyone been able to get one of these recorders to lock onto a digi signal from a Mini-Me?

I was going to try this: https://www.amazon.com/Neutrik-NADITBNC-FX-Female-cable-input/dp/B01JUVQW9C/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1480968040&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=Neutrik+NADITBNC-FX so as to use the aes out.

I just returned a Marantz PMD561 and bought a DR-100mkIII that will be fed by a Mini-Me.  As soon as I get it I will test the spdif connection and let you know if it works.  Gosh, I hope so as I expected this to be easy....

Jeff
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: theGeneral on December 26, 2016, 03:11:09 PM
The Mini-Me spdif to DR-100mkIII worked fine at all bit lengths and frequencies.  Good luck with yours.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: F.O.Bean on December 27, 2016, 05:19:16 AM
Here's an online album that I recorded in October with a DR-100mkIII and an Audio-Technica at4050st.
https://jasonanick.bandcamp.com/album/rhythm-future-quartet-live-at-49-west-2
For a 2 piece rig that ran me about $1000 I find it quite acceptable. There is an abundance of red hot
fiddle and guitar playing on this recording.

Sounds great, thanks for the link! I really love the "Come Together" cover :) GREAT example of a HQ rig at/around $1k IMO :)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on December 27, 2016, 09:03:31 PM
Here's an online album that I recorded in October with a DR-100mkIII and an Audio-Technica at4050st.
https://jasonanick.bandcamp.com/album/rhythm-future-quartet-live-at-49-west-2
For a 2 piece rig that ran me about $1000 I find it quite acceptable. There is an abundance of red hot
fiddle and guitar playing on this recording.

Sounds great, thanks for the link! I really love the "Come Together" cover :) GREAT example of a HQ rig at/around $1k IMO :)
Thanks Bean
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: morst on February 15, 2017, 09:23:09 PM
Here's an online album that I recorded in October with a DR-100mkIII and an Audio-Technica at4050st.
https://jasonanick.bandcamp.com/album/rhythm-future-quartet-live-at-49-west-2
For a 2 piece rig that ran me about $1000 I find it quite acceptable. There is an abundance of red hot
fiddle and guitar playing on this recording.
HEY! It's the POTATO mic! (see TeamPickle and the long term story arc of how the AKG 522 M/S can't be repaired and so it was replaced with a 4050st!)

Sounds really good! If band camp didn't stream the whole thing, I might just buy it!

I think CD baby and amazon only give samples of every track, so the techies can't hork the stream, not that I have done that! I'm fine with streams as long as I have flat-rate bandwidth!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on February 16, 2017, 07:44:12 AM
Here's an online album that I recorded in October with a DR-100mkIII and an Audio-Technica at4050st.
https://jasonanick.bandcamp.com/album/rhythm-future-quartet-live-at-49-west-2
For a 2 piece rig that ran me about $1000 I find it quite acceptable. There is an abundance of red hot
fiddle and guitar playing on this recording.

Great recording!  You really got a nice balance between all of the players.  Where was the 4050st positioned?  I can't see it in the pic.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on February 16, 2017, 09:06:36 AM
Here's an online album that I recorded in October with a DR-100mkIII and an Audio-Technica at4050st.
https://jasonanick.bandcamp.com/album/rhythm-future-quartet-live-at-49-west-2
For a 2 piece rig that ran me about $1000 I find it quite acceptable. There is an abundance of red hot
fiddle and guitar playing on this recording.

Great recording!  You really got a nice balance between all of the players.  Where was the 4050st positioned?  I can't see it in the pic.

Thanks for your nice comments. Actually the room in the picture is not where it was recorded. It was recorded at the end of a shoebox
shaped room. The room has tables and chairs and seats about 40 in a nice cozy atmosphere. There is no stage. The mic was about 4 feet back
from the band and about 4 feet in the air angled slightly downward. All instruments had small amps but I was also getting a lot of ambient
sound from the acoustic instruments. I did some post processing in Digital Performer and burned with Bias Peak.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on February 16, 2017, 10:33:07 AM
Here's an online album that I recorded in October with a DR-100mkIII and an Audio-Technica at4050st.
https://jasonanick.bandcamp.com/album/rhythm-future-quartet-live-at-49-west-2
For a 2 piece rig that ran me about $1000 I find it quite acceptable. There is an abundance of red hot
fiddle and guitar playing on this recording.

Great recording and nice band!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Torsken on March 15, 2017, 11:06:32 AM
Hi
New man in here.

I been looking at field recorders with good preamps. The Tascam DR-100mkIII seems to get praise for good sound, but I wonder if it's smooth sailing doing overdubs (recording track on track)? I know it's capable, but have any of you owners used it in this regard.

Besides field recording, -(where it seem to shine), my idea was to use the unit as a standalone digital multitracker for demos. Tascam does not promote the DR-100MkIII for this kind of use and I wonder if it's user friendliness. Portastyudio style  :headphones:

Love the fact that you can record to a SD card, and import to the computer, but I wonder if you can do monitoring, -playback of recorded track while recording a new track?

Basicly I want to record music/sounds with quality without opening the computer. So user friendliness is of key importance (not too much fiddeling with sub menues etc...)

Thanks  :)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dallman on March 15, 2017, 12:47:21 PM
I have not seen any functionality for overdubbing. I could easily be wrong, as I do not use the feature, but both within the menus on the deck and within the reference manual http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/912/e_dr-100mk3_rm_va%20(1).pdf  (http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/912/e_dr-100mk3_rm_va%20(1).pdf), I do not see this function on the DR100MKIII.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on March 15, 2017, 01:36:08 PM
Hi
New man in here.

I been looking at field recorders with good preamps. The Tascam DR-100mkIII seems to get praise for good sound, but I wonder if it's smooth sailing doing overdubs (recording track on track)? I know it's capable, but have any of you owners used it in this regard.

Besides field recording, -(where it seem to shine), my idea was to use the unit as a standalone digital multitracker for demos. Tascam does not promote the DR-100MkIII for this kind of use and I wonder if it's user friendliness. Portastyudio style  :headphones:

Love the fact that you can record to a SD card, and import to the computer, but I wonder if you can do monitoring, -playback of recorded track while recording a new track?

Basicly I want to record music/sounds with quality without opening the computer. So user friendliness is of key importance (not too much fiddeling with sub menues etc...)

Thanks  :)

I don't think you can multitrack on the DR100mk3, but you can do it on a TASCAM DR-05 with the latest firmware.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Torsken on March 15, 2017, 03:16:35 PM
I think I may have misunderstood this sentece in the manual, believeing it was overdubbing - track on track:  Dual format recording function allows simultaneous recording of both WAV and MP3 files

Something like the Zoom H6 Six-Track seem to be more of what I need, but I'm never buying a Zoom (too noisy preamps).

The Portastudios seem to be of a lesser audio quality where Tascam cheepo on components vs e.g. DR-100Mk3. If anyone know of a different unit that offers great preamp(s) and multitracking, please let me know.

How does the DR-05 preamps and mics measure up to the top end DR-100Mk3..?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SoundManJohn365 on March 31, 2017, 11:56:06 AM
Hi all, just checking in here after a few months of intensive DR-100 MKIII use. I spent 2 months in Finland making field recordings of ice and primarily used the DR-100 MKIII and a pair of Primo EM172s. This included leaving the recorder (in a camera bag) out on frozen lakes and bays for 1-2 hours at a time. The temperatures ranged from -5˚C to -17˚C. No problems, everything worked great. You can listen to a mix of unprocessed recordings on SC: https://soundcloud.com/maaheli/bay-of-bothnia-ice-flows

In a few noisier situations like recording on ships, I used the 'dual format recording' which came in handy. This is not an overdubbing function. It simply records a second file at the same time at -20db lower as a 'safe' back up.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: petphi on March 31, 2017, 06:30:43 PM
Power-On problems?
...
Just wondering if any other purchasers of this device have encountered a problem with the device locking up / not powering-on after a couple of days without use, despite a fully charged Li-ion battery?
...

A quick follow-up to my original post (Reply #123):

My initial "device won't power on after a week" issues resolved by themselves after a week or two. Who knows why?

Anyway, this nice-device continues to deliver.

Cheers, Peter
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on April 06, 2017, 09:06:50 AM
NEW FIRMWARE UPDATE V. 1.02

http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/downloads/

NOTES:

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Updates
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Always use the most recent firmware for this device.
Please visit the TEAC Global Site at http://teac-global.com/ to check for the latest firmware.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maintenance items
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
V1.02 fix

- Operation of the MS decoder when the input source is set to Line has been improved.

- The recording setting file format would not resume. This has been fixed.

- Operation when the recording setting sampling frequency is set to 192/176.4kHz has been improved.

- Operation reliability has been improved.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
V1.01 fix

- Operation reliability has been improved.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on April 07, 2017, 03:25:50 PM
Here's an online album that I recorded in October with a DR-100mkIII and an Audio-Technica at4050st.
https://jasonanick.bandcamp.com/album/rhythm-future-quartet-live-at-49-west-2
For a 2 piece rig that ran me about $1000 I find it quite acceptable. There is an abundance of red hot
fiddle and guitar playing on this recording.

Great recording!  You really got a nice balance between all of the players.  Where was the 4050st positioned?  I can't see it in the pic.

Thanks for your nice comments. Actually the room in the picture is not where it was recorded. It was recorded at the end of a shoebox
shaped room. The room has tables and chairs and seats about 40 in a nice cozy atmosphere. There is no stage. The mic was about 4 feet back
from the band and about 4 feet in the air angled slightly downward. All instruments had small amps but I was also getting a lot of ambient
sound from the acoustic instruments. I did some post processing in Digital Performer and burned with Bias Peak.

Excellent job, mepaca!

This is my favorite way of recording, of some of my most favored music, and the performance is top notch.  I suspect Stéphane Grappelli would approve!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on April 08, 2017, 04:45:08 AM
Thanks Gutbucket. That is high praise indeed coming from guys like you and Voltronic. For paid gigs I almost always do multi track recordings so
that I have more control after the fact. As a hobbyist though I still love to make pure stereo recordings and I have literally thousands of these
cafe style recordings. I really like this AT 4050st mic. I find it sounds more like what I hear in the room than any of the dozens of other mics that
I have including my Schoeps m/s rig. Keep in mind that I rarely record in giant theaters, sports arenas etc. Also, the little Tascam deck more than
holds its own. For classical stuff I still use my usbpre 2 though.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: JDW on April 30, 2017, 07:14:52 PM
I am mulling a purchase of either the Sony PCM-D100 or the TASCAM DR-100mkIII.  I am curious about how peak limiting compares. 

From what I have read online, the TASCAM has a "Dual level recording" feature that simultaneously records a second audio file 12dB lower than the main recording.  The TASCAM manual calls it a "backup."  TASCAM says that feature can only be used on lower sampling frequencies, not on 176.4 or 192kHz.  Also, there is what appears to be a separate peak "limiter" function that is not directly tied in with "dual level recording."

In contrast the Sony D100 has a Peak Limiter feature that also records a second audio file at 12dB lower than the main recording, but it is not called "a backup."  Instead, the D100 seems to automatically insert the -12dB (non-clipped) waveform into the main recording as needed.  There is no separate peak limiter because the -12dB second recording IS the limiter.

So it seems that the D100 fixes clipped portions of a recording automatically whereas the TASCAM merely provides a backup file that requires you to use an audio editor to manually copy and paste the portions clipped.  Is this correct?

Respective product manuals are found here:

TASCAM:
http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/912/e_dr-100mk3_rm_va%20(1).pdf

SONY:
https://www.manualslib.com/manual/763631/Sony-Pcm-D100.html?page=71

Thanks.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on May 01, 2017, 08:03:04 PM
I am mulling a purchase of either the Sony PCM-D100 or the TASCAM DR-100mkIII.  I am curious about how peak limiting compares. 

From what I have read online, the TASCAM has a "Dual level recording" feature that simultaneously records a second audio file 12dB lower than the main recording.  The TASCAM manual calls it a "backup."  TASCAM says that feature can only be used on lower sampling frequencies, not on 176.4 or 192kHz.  Also, there is what appears to be a separate peak "limiter" function that is not directly tied in with "dual level recording."

In contrast the Sony D100 has a Peak Limiter feature that also records a second audio file at 12dB lower than the main recording, but it is not called "a backup."  Instead, the D100 seems to automatically insert the -12dB (non-clipped) waveform into the main recording as needed.  There is no separate peak limiter because the -12dB second recording IS the limiter.

So it seems that the D100 fixes clipped portions of a recording automatically whereas the TASCAM merely provides a backup file that requires you to use an audio editor to manually copy and paste the portions clipped.  Is this correct?

Respective product manuals are found here:

TASCAM:
http://tascam.com/content/downloads/products/912/e_dr-100mk3_rm_va%20(1).pdf

SONY:
https://www.manualslib.com/manual/763631/Sony-Pcm-D100.html?page=71

Thanks.

The way I'm reading that Sony manual is pretty much describing how digital limiters work.  It's not really recording a second set of tracks; just storing a few seconds in memory and swapping from the output of one ADC to the other if it detects clipping.  What I don't like at all is that you can't adjust the limiter threshold.  And trust me, you will hear it working.  It's very noticeable on music, but works OK with dialogue or FX.  Limiters of this type also tend to raise the noisefloor of the recording by the amount they are reducing.  See the next page of that manual.  If you want 100 dB S/N ratio, you can't get that with the limiter engaged. 

Good analog limiters such as those found on Sound Devices recorders and other pro-level gear are a different story as they work a totally different way.  But analog or digital, if you're compressing / limiting in the recorder, you're losing that dynamic range permanently which is why I'm not a fan of limiting at the recording stage unless absolutely necessary.

In contrast, the Tascam is actually recording a complete second set of "safety" tracks -12 dB lower than the main stereo pair which you can then choose to use as you wish later on (or not use at all if you don't need them).  This is much better than using a limiter IMO, because you're not "baking in" compression to your recording.  I do this on my DR-70D whenever I'm only using two mics, since most of what I record has a fairly large dynamic range.  In post, if I see the main tracks are hitting 0 dB anywhere that's part of the music (I don't care about applause which I knock back anyway), I ditch the main pair entirely and use the -12 dB safety tracks instead.  These will require more amplification in post obviously, but they will have no clipping (unless you went nuts with your gain settings and the original tracks are massively clipped to start with).

Some here may advise keeping your original tracks even when they have some clipping, and editing in the safety tracks just for those sections.  I find that to be rather time-consuming to get such edits to sound seamless, especially with regard to ambient noise, but that's an option if you want it as well.  It's kind of what the Sony D100 is doing on the fly, but you have the option of altering or undoing it.

Long story short: The DR-100 mkIII offers a much better solution for avoiding clipping by use of those safety tracks, giving you the option of doing what you want later on.  It's also far less expensive, will let you connect real mics, etc.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder - DIGI IN + Audient Mico works!
Post by: dogmusic on May 15, 2017, 11:10:38 AM
This will probably matter only to very few if any, but for the record, this TASCAM DR-100mk3 will actually accept a digital input from the Audient Mico preamp SPDIF out.

To my knowledge, no other SONY or TASCAM recorder with digital input will do this.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dmcculh on May 23, 2017, 10:47:41 PM
Appreciate all of the great discussion.  Which A/D filter are you all using (FIR1, FIR2, SHORT DELAY1, SHORT DELAY2) and any specific thoughts on this?  Mine was defaulted to SHORT DELAY1 (which appears to be the factory default) which I have been using.  Running mics directly XLR mic in w/48v.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on May 25, 2017, 09:52:59 AM
If anyone perusing this thread is interested in buying one of these, there's one for $312.00 at Amazon Warehouse Deals. Probably brand new but open box.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B01I54S1S0/ref=dp_olp_all_mbc?ie=UTF8&condition=all

No affiliation.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: cosmickc on June 03, 2017, 02:34:37 PM
oh boy.  i already have the dr100-mkII, Dr-70d and i used to own a Dr-40, and dr-05 and DA-P1.  Why the hell am I wanting to by this now too!?!?  Damn addiction!!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: JDW on June 03, 2017, 05:46:33 PM
If anyone perusing this thread is interested in buying one of these, there's one for $312.00 at Amazon Warehouse Deals. Probably brand new but open box.

Beware of Amazon Warehouse open box deals, especially if you live somewhere where it will be difficult to return it:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=169217.msg2228718#msg2228718
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: adrjork on June 10, 2017, 08:22:54 PM
Hi guys, I've read the thread, but there are so many and specific infos here, while I'd need a more basic and summarizing advice based on your experience and great knowledge.
I have a decision to take about buying a piece of gear for foley and field recordings, I mean a recorder+mic kit to record both close-up sounds indoor (very little things like the sighs of a man, the sounds of his steps, of his clothes, etc.) but also the sound field outdoor (that for my needs doesn't mean capturing a particular bird far from me, but simply capturing the sounds around me at a good quality). For both purposes I finally narrowed my choices into just 4 options:
a) Tascam DR-70D (Busman mod.) + AudioTechnica AT4053B (S/N 78dB);
b) Tascam DR100mk3 (built in parallel mics, S/N 102dB);
c) Tascam DR100mk3 (Busman mod.) + AudioTechnica AT4053B (S/N 78dB);
d) Sony PCM D100 (built in 90-to-120° mics, S/N 98dB).
What is, in your opinion the best choice for sound quality (that's my priority)?
Sony D100 is so practical being an all-in-one solution, and declares a S/N ratio of about 100dB that's fantastic for my purpose. Probably the two tiny mics are not the best for classical piano music... but consider that I need it mainly for sound-effects recordings.
On the other hand, Tascam DR100mk3 could be a great competitor: I don't know the spectrum quality of the built-in mics (and I've read here that are not great for "little" sounds), anyway it declares a S/N ratio even better than the Sony D100, and it has the 2 XLR preamps (that should become hi-end with Busman replacement) that makes this piece of gear perhaps more flexible.
There is also the option of Tascam DR-70D + an AT4053B. I should suppose that this is the best sound quality option, but the S/N ratio of the mic is only 78dB...
So actually here the questions are three:

1. Which is better for "little" sounds between Sony D100 and Tascam DR100mk3 (built-in mics)?

2. Which is the difference (for audio quality) between DR-70D and DR100mk3?

3. Which is the best option for sound quality (and for the needs described above) in your opinion?
-Sony D100?
-Tascam/Busman DR100mk3 with built-in mics?
-The same DR100mk3 + AT4053?
-Tascam/Busman DR-70D + AT4053?

Thanks a lot for your appreciated help.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: JDW on June 11, 2017, 03:19:27 AM
...I finally narrowed my choices into just 4 options:
a) Tascam DR-70D (Busman mod.) + AudioTechnica AT4053B (S/N 78dB);
b) Tascam DR100mk3 (built in parallel mics, S/N 102dB);
c) Tascam DR100mk3 (Busman mod.) + AudioTechnica AT4053B (S/N 78dB);
d) Sony PCM D100 (built in 90-to-120° mics, S/N 98dB).
What is, in your opinion the best choice for sound quality (that's my priority)?

I bought the D100 specifically so I could use it with the built in mics. If I wasn't interested in the built in mics, I would not have bought the D100 since the new Sound Devices MixPre-3 with -130dBV noise floor is superior.

You can hear audio samples of the D100 here:

http://transom.org/2014/sony-pcm-d100/

Audio samples of the Tascam Dr100-MKIII are here:

http://transom.org/2016/tascam-dr-100mkii-2/

In comparing those samples you will find the built in mics of the D100 to be superior, which is why I chose the D100.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: adrjork on June 11, 2017, 11:13:55 AM
If I wasn't interested in the built in mics, I would not have bought the D100 since the new Sound Devices MixPre-3 with -130dBV noise floor is superior.
[...]
In comparing those samples you will find the built in mics of the D100 to be superior, which is why I chose the D100.
Thank you so much for the clear answer! Now I know that best built-in mics are in Sony.
Please, let me step further: for "tiny or little" sounds, is it better Sony Built-in mics, or MixPre-3 + AT4053B, or MixPre-3 + C414xls?
Thanks
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: JDW on June 11, 2017, 05:35:34 PM
See my post in the D100 thread about that.  The built in mics of the D100 are shockingly sensitive, even detecting sounds my own ears normally don't detect, even when using recording level 5!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: adrjork on June 11, 2017, 05:52:13 PM
Thanks JCW for your reply. Yes, I've seen your post. Surely D100 is impressive and it can be considered affordable all-in-one.
So my question is: is there any reason to go for a much more expensive option like MixPre-3 + a pricey mic? What does this option give me more than the D100? Noise floor? Sounds' definitions? And more specifically: a MixPre-3 + a AT4053B (that declares S/R 78dB and 16dB noise floor) give me a better floor than D100 with built-in mics?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: JDW on June 11, 2017, 08:25:21 PM
I'm rather shocked no one else is joining us in this conversation; but for my own use, I would say that the MixPre3 adds value of the greater noise floor AND it has a physically longer levels meter.  Personally, I wish the D100 had a display that would show me the entire waveform, not just levels. That's how I record on my iPad using an external adapter that has an onboard DAC.  I use an app on the iPad called TwistedWave which shows the entire recorded waveform so I can see not only clipped portions of my recording "right now" but I can see other parts that may have clipped.  (I record the output of a mixer board at church.)  I find that waveform info useful so I can hand-adjust the recording level as needed much more intelligently.  However, the MixPre3 is built superbly, such that you probably won't have much problem with clipping unless your recording level is just ridiculously high.  At least, that is what I gathered by watching some promo videos on the MixPre series.

The other benefit to the MixPre3 would be your unlimited choice of external mics.  But since I am not a mic expert, and since I intend to use my D100 mainly for live recordings that will replace my video camera's audio track (places where I don't always have the luxury of putting a fancy external mic near the performers), the D100 won my money over the MixPre3 for compactness and ease of setup.  If ever I was convinced that I needed an external mic or a set of mics, I would of course want the best -- mics with XLR plugs.  And the D100 is not a device into which you can directly connect XLR plugs, so the MixPre3 has a big advantage here.

So unless someone else in this thread can at least chime in with some helpfulness about why an expensive external mic or mic are really night-and-day better than the built-in mics of the D100, I would say you should consider the D100 to be a strong contender for your cash.  Again, the sensitivity of these mics is simply shocking.  I never would have thought it would recorder the hum of fluorescent lights overhead, especially with the recording level set only half-way!  And the noise floor of the D100 is impressive.  When I first tried the D100 in my room lit by fluorescents, I thought the hum was the noise floor of the D100, only later to move to another room and find the D100 recorded dead silence -- at the 100dB setting.  I used my AKG K702 headphones with the D100's headphone jack set to level 5 -- which is impressively loud.  I am able to listen during the recording and of course review all the previous recordings, and the headphone amp on the D100 is very good.  (My normal headphone amp is a Headstage Arrow.)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: adrjork on June 11, 2017, 08:38:29 PM
Thank you JDK for your incredible kindness and patience and detailed answers!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dallman on June 11, 2017, 10:21:14 PM
I think no one is chiming in because this is the thread for the Tascam DR100MKIII. Talking extensively about the Sony D100 on this thread is confusing as I think we often skim looking for information based on the title of the thread. The best way to start a comparison of deck or comparison of internal VS external mics on a deck or decks would be to start a thread labeled that way. The topic of this thread is such that many with no interest in the Tascam DR100MKIII wouldn't look at the posts.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder - DIGI IN + Audient Mico works!
Post by: jeenash on July 12, 2017, 08:28:56 PM
This will probably matter only to very few if any, but for the record, this TASCAM DR-100mk3 will actually accept a digital input from the Audient Mico preamp SPDIF out.

To my knowledge, no other SONY or TASCAM recorder with digital input will do this.

The mkII will only accept 24/44.1 SPDIF from the Audient Mico. Have you tried the mkIII with 24/48 or 96?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder - DIGI IN + Audient Mico works!
Post by: dogmusic on July 13, 2017, 07:54:41 AM
This will probably matter only to very few if any, but for the record, this TASCAM DR-100mk3 will actually accept a digital input from the Audient Mico preamp SPDIF out.

To my knowledge, no other SONY or TASCAM recorder with digital input will do this.

The mkII will only accept 24/44.1 SPDIF from the Audient Mico. Have you tried the mkIII with 24/48 or 96?

I tried 24/96 SPDIF and the TASCAM DR-100mk3 accepted it from the Mico.

Thanks for the info about the mk2 accepting 24/44.1. I had only tried 24/96 and as you know that doesn't work with the Audient.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: spyder9 on July 18, 2017, 06:20:17 PM
Shootout:  Tascam DR-100 mkiii vs Sony PCM-M10

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=182908.0
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: spyder9 on July 26, 2017, 12:04:40 PM
Shootout:  Tascam DR-100 mkiii vs Marantz PMD661 (Oade warm mod)

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=183001.msg2235427#msg2235427
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 18, 2018, 12:59:44 PM
Hi

I've had one of these for a little while and have been using mics that use a small Jack plug. I've just now bought some AT831B mics. If I connect them via their individual power supplies they work just fine but as I want to use them for stealth recordings I don't want to have to carry 2 power supplies and two one meter long cables.

I've tried to get them to work using these https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3-pin-XLR-Male-to-3-pin-Mini-XLR-Male-Mic-adapter/162475570222?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649 (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3-pin-XLR-Male-to-3-pin-Mini-XLR-Male-Mic-adapter/162475570222?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649) to connect them direct to the xlr inputs and turned on phantom power but so far I can't get them to run.  I have tried several options for I/O.

Any help offered will be much appreciated as this is very frustrating.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: beatkilla on January 18, 2018, 01:10:40 PM
Hi

I've had one of these for a little while and have been using mics that use a small Jack plug. I've just now bought some AT831B mics. If I connect them via their individual power supplies they work just fine but as I want to use them for stealth recordings I don't want to have to carry 2 power supplies and two one meter long cables.

I've tried to get them to work using these https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3-pin-XLR-Male-to-3-pin-Mini-XLR-Male-Mic-adapter/162475570222?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649 (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3-pin-XLR-Male-to-3-pin-Mini-XLR-Male-Mic-adapter/162475570222?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649) to connect them direct to the xlr inputs and turned on phantom power but so far I can't get them to run.  I have tried several options for I/O.

Any help offered will be much appreciated as this is very frustrating.

You can have a cable maker here reterminate them and if needed 4.7k mod.

But i think you may have fried them already if you applied p48 to them .Hopefully not the case.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 19, 2018, 03:17:43 AM
Well I just tried again with the metal convertors and it's working fine.  Very strange.

BTW: Can you explain to me by a 4.7k mod?

Thanks
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: kuba e on January 19, 2018, 05:33:52 AM
Well I just tried again with the metal convertors and it's working fine.  Very strange.
Do not connect mics straight to p48. You will destroy them.

If you want to use them with p48, you need phantom adapter. These mics are three wires. One wire is for power, second is for audio signal, third is ground. Phantom adapter steps down p48 to small voltage and divide this voltage between wires. This is the right way how to power these mics. The second purposed of phantom adapter is that it converts mic's unbalanced signal to balanced signal. Then you can use long cables between the adapter and the preamp.

BTW: Can you explain to me by a 4.7k mod?
It is possible to use this mic in two wire configuration with classical battery box (9 V) too. But the mic is not properly powered in this way and you get distorsion on high SPL.
4.7k mod is Chris Church's mod (you put the resistor 4.7k between pin 2, 3). This mod enable you to use the mics in two wire configuration with 9 V battery box for high SPL too.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 19, 2018, 06:05:20 AM
Do not connect mics straight to p48. You will destroy them.

If you want to use them with p48, you need phantom adapter. These mics are three wires. One wire is for power, second is for audio signal, third is ground. Phantom adapter steps down p48 to small voltage and divide this voltage between wires. This is the right way how to power these mics. The second purposed of phantom adapter is that it converts mic's unbalanced signal to balanced signal. Then you can use long cables between the adapter and the preamp.


I'm sorry but I don't understand all the terminolgy.  What is p48?  Are there any adaptors that you can recommend. Thanks
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: kuba e on January 19, 2018, 10:12:27 AM
p48 mean phantom power 48V. Condenser mics are working with this voltage, and a lot of preamps/recorders provide this voltage. But AT831B is electret mic, it need around 9V. Here is example of phantom power adapter for electret AT mics. I do not know, if it is working with yours. It is better to ask in the forum which adapter is for AT831B. Or better look into the mic documentation.
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT8538-Power-Module/dp/B000ZLX3EY

If you do not want to use phantom adapter, you can use battery box. In this case it is nessesery to ask somebody to make 4.7k mod on your mics and terminate them to stereo jack. Without 4.7mod you will have distorsions in the recordings on loud shows.
https://www.church-audio.com/shop/battery-boxes/ugly-battery-box/

Edit:
Maybe this is designed for your mics:
https://eu.audio-technica.com/AT8531
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 19, 2018, 10:49:27 AM
p48 mean phantom power 48V. Condenser mics are working with this voltage, and a lot of preamps/recorders provide this voltage. But AT831B is electret mic, it need around 9V. Here is example of phantom power adapter for electret AT mics. I do not know, if it is working with yours. It is better to ask in the forum which adapter is for AT831B. Or better look into the mic documentation.
https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT8538-Power-Module/dp/B000ZLX3EY

If you do not want to use phantom adapter, you can use battery box. In this case it is nessesery to ask somebody to make 4.7k mod on your mics and terminate them to stereo jack. Without 4.7mod you will have distorsions in the recordings on loud shows.
https://www.church-audio.com/shop/battery-boxes/ugly-battery-box/

Edit:
Maybe this is designed for your mics:
https://eu.audio-technica.com/AT8531

Thanks

I already have two AT8531, they came with the mics but I want to try and avoid having to use them because of the extra weight to carry plus the two leads extra leads.  I will take a look around and see what adaptors are available in Europe as I live in London.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: kuba e on January 19, 2018, 01:32:59 PM
Yes, i understand. I think the best way is go for Chris Church battery box and  Y cable with 4.7k mod. Y cable should have 2 mini xlr inputs (for your mics) and output one mini stereo jack (for battery box). Then you will connect - Mics -> Y cable with 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (Tascam). You can buy second Y cable without 4.7k mod for recording quiet acoustic shows, then you will use - Mics -> Y cable without 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (tascam)

There are more info in the forum e.g. here
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=108196.0
or google this: 4.7 mod  site:taperssection.com

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 19, 2018, 07:25:56 PM
Yes, i understand. I think the best way is go for Chris Church battery box and  Y cable with 4.7k mod. Y cable should have 2 mini xlr inputs (for your mics) and output one mini stereo jack (for battery box). Then you will connect - Mics -> Y cable with 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (Tascam). You can buy second Y cable without 4.7k mod for recording quiet acoustic shows, then you will use - Mics -> Y cable without 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (tascam)

There are more info in the forum e.g. here
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=108196.0
or google this: 4.7 mod  site:taperssection.com

Thanks for your suggestions but I really want to avoid extra leads. A simple plugin phantom power adaptor seems to suit my needs better.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: fanofjam on January 21, 2018, 07:20:30 AM
Yes, i understand. I think the best way is go for Chris Church battery box and  Y cable with 4.7k mod. Y cable should have 2 mini xlr inputs (for your mics) and output one mini stereo jack (for battery box). Then you will connect - Mics -> Y cable with 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (Tascam). You can buy second Y cable without 4.7k mod for recording quiet acoustic shows, then you will use - Mics -> Y cable without 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (tascam)

There are more info in the forum e.g. here
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=108196.0
or google this: 4.7 mod  site:taperssection.com

Thanks for your suggestions but I really want to avoid extra leads. A simple plugin phantom power adaptor seems to suit my needs better.

Because of the gear you've bought, you are now trying to fit a round peg into a square hole.  Unfortunately, while the adapter you're asking for is available, in my opinion that wouldn't be a very good option.  See the last paragraph for details.

First of all, I agree with the other responses that you should buy a two wire battery box.   

Most stereo microphones that use 9V power, also known as Plug In Power (PIP), terminate in a single 3.5mm stereo connector.  If your mics were terminated similarly, you could use the Ext In connector on your DR100mkIII to power your mics.

However, since you have two mono microphones, you cannot connect your mics to the DR100mkIII, so I agree with the others that a two wire battery box is your best answer.  They are tiny. 

You also need the 4.7k mod if you'll be recording loud music...without this mod your mics are going to distort at high volumes.  This is a very simple mod.

OK, so if you insist on the phantom power adapters, this is what you need to buy...

http://naiant.com/studio-electronics-products/inline-devices/pfa-phantom-power-adaptor/

I'm going to be honest though that this would be a poor decision compared to the battery box.  Read the reviews of the DR100mkIII from users that operate the DR100mkIII with phantom power turned on.  Phantom decreases battery run-time on the DR100mkIII significantly.  In my opinion, you'd be solving one problem and giving yourself another. 

Battery boxes are very small compared the size of the DR100mkIII.

Finally, it's unfortunate that you've probably purchased the DR100mkIII because you mistakenly thought that you needed a recorder with two XLR connectors in order to connect your mics, but since you're a stealth taper, I would consider selling the DR100mkIII and buying a handheld recorder...and again use the battery box solution recommended above.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 21, 2018, 07:38:04 AM
Yes, i understand. I think the best way is go for Chris Church battery box and  Y cable with 4.7k mod. Y cable should have 2 mini xlr inputs (for your mics) and output one mini stereo jack (for battery box). Then you will connect - Mics -> Y cable with 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (Tascam). You can buy second Y cable without 4.7k mod for recording quiet acoustic shows, then you will use - Mics -> Y cable without 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (tascam)

There are more info in the forum e.g. here
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=108196.0
or google this: 4.7 mod  site:taperssection.com

Thanks for your suggestions but I really want to avoid extra leads. A simple plugin phantom power adaptor seems to suit my needs better.

Since you said you're trying to stealth record, if I was in your position I would sell the DR100mkIII and buy a smaller handheld recorder.  And rather than using PIP from the recorder, buy yourself a 9V battery box to power your mics.  They are tiny, inexpensive and fairly commonplace. 

Church Audio sells several battery box designs that are popular on taperssection and are less than the size of a 9V battery.

The basic problem is that your recorder is incompatible with your microphones, so you're trying to fit a square peg into a round hole and there simply are very few options available for the adapter you're looking for.  Mic's that are designed to be powered with a 9V power source just aren't compatible with a recorder that supplies 48V phantom.  However, if you insist on keeping the DR100mkIII, the product that you need is available in the link below.  As far as I know, Naiant is the only source of this type of adapter.

http://naiant.com/studio-electronics-products/inline-devices/pfa-phantom-power-adaptor/

A third option which has not been suggested is to purchase a recorder that supplies 'plug in power' (PIP) directly to your mics from the 3.5mm mic in connector jack.  However, the problem with this option is that most of these recorders underpower the mics...while the mics may work they usually don't get enough power to handle the high Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) at a loud live music concert, so underpowered mics will distort when the sound gets loud.  Some people have reported good results using a few handheld recorders that apparently put a slightly higher voltage through their 'mic in' jack than other manufacturers.  I would caution you to do plenty of research though...you should assume that a recorder with PIP will NOT provide enough power to your mics to record loud music concerts.



I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192.  I know that might sound a little extreme but....

I have used the Tascam with CA14s  and the Church Battery box which I still have.

The AT831b can be run on batteries or phantom power, all I want to do is find the right adaptor for my purposes, i.e. one that doesn't involve in using addition leads.  Do you consider that either of these would be suitable https://www.thomann.de/gb/audix_aps_910.htm (https://www.thomann.de/gb/audix_aps_910.htm) or https://www.thomann.de/ie/superlux_ps_418_s.htm?ref=search_rslt_phantom+opower+adaptor_315064_15 (https://www.thomann.de/ie/superlux_ps_418_s.htm?ref=search_rslt_phantom+opower+adaptor_315064_15).

Thanks
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: fanofjam on January 21, 2018, 08:31:54 AM
Yes, i understand. I think the best way is go for Chris Church battery box and  Y cable with 4.7k mod. Y cable should have 2 mini xlr inputs (for your mics) and output one mini stereo jack (for battery box). Then you will connect - Mics -> Y cable with 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (Tascam). You can buy second Y cable without 4.7k mod for recording quiet acoustic shows, then you will use - Mics -> Y cable without 4.7 mod -> Battery box -> Ext in (tascam)

There are more info in the forum e.g. here
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=108196.0
or google this: 4.7 mod  site:taperssection.com

Thanks for your suggestions but I really want to avoid extra leads. A simple plugin phantom power adaptor seems to suit my needs better.

Since you said you're trying to stealth record, if I was in your position I would sell the DR100mkIII and buy a smaller handheld recorder.  And rather than using PIP from the recorder, buy yourself a 9V battery box to power your mics.  They are tiny, inexpensive and fairly commonplace. 

Church Audio sells several battery box designs that are popular on taperssection and are less than the size of a 9V battery.

The basic problem is that your recorder is incompatible with your microphones, so you're trying to fit a square peg into a round hole and there simply are very few options available for the adapter you're looking for.  Mic's that are designed to be powered with a 9V power source just aren't compatible with a recorder that supplies 48V phantom.  However, if you insist on keeping the DR100mkIII, the product that you need is available in the link below.  As far as I know, Naiant is the only source of this type of adapter.

http://naiant.com/studio-electronics-products/inline-devices/pfa-phantom-power-adaptor/

A third option which has not been suggested is to purchase a recorder that supplies 'plug in power' (PIP) directly to your mics from the 3.5mm mic in connector jack.  However, the problem with this option is that most of these recorders underpower the mics...while the mics may work they usually don't get enough power to handle the high Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) at a loud live music concert, so underpowered mics will distort when the sound gets loud.  Some people have reported good results using a few handheld recorders that apparently put a slightly higher voltage through their 'mic in' jack than other manufacturers.  I would caution you to do plenty of research though...you should assume that a recorder with PIP will NOT provide enough power to your mics to record loud music concerts.



I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192.  I know that might sound a little extreme but....

I have used the Tascam with CA14s  and the Church Battery box which I still have.

The AT831b can be run on batteries or phantom power, all I want to do is find the right adaptor for my purposes, i.e. one that doesn't involve in using addition leads.  Do you consider that either of these would be suitable https://www.thomann.de/gb/audix_aps_910.htm (https://www.thomann.de/gb/audix_aps_910.htm) or https://www.thomann.de/ie/superlux_ps_418_s.htm?ref=search_rslt_phantom+opower+adaptor_315064_15 (https://www.thomann.de/ie/superlux_ps_418_s.htm?ref=search_rslt_phantom+opower+adaptor_315064_15).

Thanks

The Audix adapters don't provide any information except that they work with electret mics... I have a pair of something similar that work with my PIP mics, so they might work for your situation.  I'd try this first.  The Superlux product seems to be specifically designed for the Superlux mics.  Without additional specs, not sure.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: kuba e on January 21, 2018, 08:58:59 AM
I will reply in your new post so as not to disturb the talk about the tascam dr100.
(http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=185079.0)

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: capnhook on January 21, 2018, 09:35:47 AM

I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192.  I know that might sound a little extreme but....


There's your problem....you ARE sounding a bit extreme.

Go 24/48 or 24/44.1

Don't go near the 192 kHz kool-aid....it's just marketing fluff.

 
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 21, 2018, 10:28:17 AM

I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192.  I know that might sound a little extreme but....




There's your problem....you ARE sounding a bit extreme.

Go 24/48 or 24/44.1

Don't go near the 192 kHz kool-aid....it's just marketing fluff.

I disagree but that's a different conversation
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: capnhook on January 21, 2018, 10:36:32 AM

I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192.  I know that might sound a little extreme but....




There's your problem....you ARE sounding a bit extreme.

Go 24/48 or 24/44.1

Don't go near the 192 kHz kool-aid....it's just marketing fluff.

I disagree but that's a different conversation

Convince me otherwise.  You would be the first.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 21, 2018, 11:06:44 AM

I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192.  I know that might sound a little extreme but....




There's your problem....you ARE sounding a bit extreme.

Go 24/48 or 24/44.1

Don't go near the 192 kHz kool-aid....it's just marketing fluff.

I disagree but that's a different conversation

Convince me otherwise.  You would be the first.

I didn't come here to discuss that so I'll have to dissapoint you.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: capnhook on January 21, 2018, 11:11:42 AM

I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192.  I know that might sound a little extreme but....




There's your problem....you ARE sounding a bit extreme.

Go 24/48 or 24/44.1

Don't go near the 192 kHz kool-aid....it's just marketing fluff.

I disagree but that's a different conversation

Convince me otherwise.  You would be the first.

I didn't come here to discuss that so I'll have to dissapoint you.

You're the one disappointed with your M-10.  You don't have to be.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 21, 2018, 11:56:41 AM

I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192.  I know that might sound a little extreme but....




There's your problem....you ARE sounding a bit extreme.

Go 24/48 or 24/44.1

Don't go near the 192 kHz kool-aid....it's just marketing fluff.

I disagree but that's a different conversation

Convince me otherwise.  You would be the first.

I didn't come here to discuss that so I'll have to dissapoint you.

You're the one disappointed with your M-10.  You don't have to be.

When did I say that? I'm far from dissapointed. I just like to have more than one string to my bow. You don't need to respond because this conversation is going nowhere.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: capnhook on January 21, 2018, 01:28:51 PM
Carry on, sir.



Welcome to ts.com.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: rogs on January 21, 2018, 08:12:01 PM

I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192.  I know that might sound a little extreme but....




There's your problem....you ARE sounding a bit extreme.

Go 24/48 or 24/44.1

Don't go near the 192 kHz kool-aid....it's just marketing fluff.

I disagree but that's a different conversation

Convince me otherwise.  You would be the first.

I am one of those 'extreme' users that absolutely need the 192KHz sampling option --- anything less just won't work for one of my particular projects - which is recording ultrasonics. 
First time I've been able to find a reasonably priced 192KHz portable recorder..... Up until now, it was either specialised (and very expensive!)  kit - or the Korg MR1 and MR2 in DSD mode. (Also too expensive, IMHO)

Some short notes here: http://www.jp137.com/lts/MEMS.bat.experiments.pdf
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: capnhook on January 21, 2018, 09:17:30 PM
SIRMick is recording music, not bats.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: rogs on January 22, 2018, 04:34:38 AM
SIRMick is recording music, not bats.

Ah -- sorry about that -- I had only read:  'I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192' ...

I hadn't realised he was only considering recording music...

The comment that 192KHz sampling is just 'marketing fluff' may be true for recording music. I think you probably have a valid point there.

 It's certainly not true as a general statement...
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: capnhook on January 22, 2018, 11:56:00 AM
Yep, no absolutes in this life.  Yep rogs, you will need 24/192.  Yep, special ultrasonic mics, too.

Don't know how many humans record bats, but I bet there are a lot more humans recording music with these things....hence, 24/192 marketing fluff IS a valid general statement, eh?

Welcome to ts.com.


Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: fanofjam on January 22, 2018, 11:57:34 AM
SIRMick is recording music, not bats.

Ah -- sorry about that -- I had only read:  'I do have a Sony PCM-M10 but what drew me to the Tascam was the fact that I can record at 24/192' ...

I hadn't realised he was only considering recording music...

The comment that 192KHz sampling is just 'marketing fluff' may be true for recording music. I think you probably have a valid point there.

 It's certainly not true as a general statement...

The majority here do seem to be live music tapers, so the discussion/responses are often from that perspective.

In the live music setting there's a general consensus that the law of diminishing returns sets in for sampling frequency about 24/48 since there are so many variables to getting 'good' sound in that situation.  Increasing sampling rate above 48kHz is way down on the list of priorities and there is plenty of anecdotal evidence that suggests that going higher won't enhance the sound of a live recording, especially for example when using less than high end gear.

That said, if we're able to control all of the recording variables, such as in a studio setting, I doubt many would argue that increased sampling frequency is not justified.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: rogs on January 23, 2018, 07:15:06 AM

The majority here do seem to be live music tapers, so the discussion/responses are often from that perspective.


I realise that most posters will be music orientated, but the original 'Intro' phrase for this Forum includes the words: "Hopefully, you're here because you share our passion for live music in all it's forms and/or the enjoyable hobby of field audio recording" (my italics)

So although 192KHz sampling may well be ' marketing fluff' for music recording, it's certainly not for field audio recording...which is where some (a few?) of us are coming from.  :)

 

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on January 24, 2018, 03:51:39 PM
Back on track..

I've just now bought some AT831B mics. If I connect them via their individual power supplies they work just fine but as I want to use them for stealth recordings I don't want to have to carry 2 power supplies and two one meter long cables.


To use those AT mics directly into a recorder providing 11-48V Phantom-Power in the way intended by Audio Technica, you'll need one of AT's adapters.  AT makes two different adapters for doing this.  Both have a miniXLR mic input and a full-sized XLR output and step-down the 48V Phantom power provided by the recorder to the voltage needed by the microphone (around 8-10V, not sure exactly, but it's in that range). 

The official AT solutions:
1) The AT adapter you liked previously (AT8531) http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/electronics/36396386c21b22ab/index.html (http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/electronics/36396386c21b22ab/index.html)
A rectangular box-shaped device.  That one has the advantage of powering the microphone with either P48 from the recorder or via a AA battery - so it can serve as both a Phantom-Power adapter and as a battery box.  Drawback is that it's bulky and requires a patch cable between it and the recorder input.  You'll need one of these for each mic.

2) An AT adapter probably better suited to what you want to do (AT8538) http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/electronics/106ef905e9296f3a/index.html (http://www.audio-technica.com/cms/electronics/106ef905e9296f3a/index.html).  It's a smaller barrel-shaped adapter you can plug directly into your recorder without a patch cable.  This one does not include provision for powering via AA battery so it only works into a recorder or other device which can provide it with Phantom-Power.  You'll need one of these for each mic.


Non-AT direct plug-and-play solutions:
3) The Audix and Superlux adapters linked above will probably work, providing similar functionality as the AT8538.  Their barrel format is similar and they can plug straight into the recorder.   Not enough data to conclusively confirm, but they should work.

4) A "three-wire" battery box.  This will have mini-XLR inputs and the 4.7kohm mod does not apply. These are not as common as 2-wire battery boxes but are not complex. Typically these are made as stereo devices so you'll only need one of these for a mic pair.

Non-AT solutions which require a cable re-wire mod (and probably a 4.7kOhm mod)-
5) Adapt the mic cable to a "two-wire" configuration.  Two-wire adaptation makes these 3-wire mics compatible with other common 2-wire eletret mic gear including battery boxes, preamps, and/or directly into a recorder providing Plug-In-Power (PIP).  The 4.7kOhm mod applies to 2-wire configuration and is recommended for high-SPL recording.  For quiet, low-SPL recording the mics will have a lower self-noise without the 4.7k mod.  Some 2-wire battery boxes and preamps probive a switchable 4.7k option built into them, but most have the 4.7kOhm mod housed within the stereo microphone connector body.

6) A Naiant PFA properly configured for will work. Physical configuration is similar to the AT8358.  You'll need one of these for each mic.  Consult with Jon (Naiant-owner) or the Naiant forum concerning configuration. Not sure of 3-wire powering options with these, but Jon adapts them to power all sorts of mics and they have many options.  You'll need one of these for each mic.

7) The Naiant IPA. They have many options.  Consult with Jon (Naiant-owner) or the Naiant forum concerning configuration.  You can use a single IPA for stereo (2-wire), which requires a cable between the IPA and recorder.  Not sure of 3-wire powering options with these, but Jon adapts them to power all sorts of mics.

8 ) Direct into a recorder providing PIP, with the caveats fanofjam noted above:
Quote
An option which has not been suggested is to purchase a recorder that supplies 'plug in power' (PIP) directly to your mics from the 3.5mm mic in connector jack.  However, the problem with this option is that most of these recorders underpower the mics...while the mics may work they usually don't get enough power to handle the high Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) at a loud live music concert, so underpowered mics will distort when the sound gets loud.  Some people have reported good results using a few handheld recorders that apparently put a slightly higher voltage through their 'mic in' jack than other manufacturers.  I would caution you to do plenty of research though...you should assume that a recorder with PIP will NOT provide enough power to your mics to record loud music concerts.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: SIRMick on January 24, 2018, 05:18:53 PM
I've decided to go with the Audix adaptors. I contacted an online store in Germany that sells them and they advised that they should be fine. I'll report back after I have tried them. I'm going to see Larry Campbell and Theresa Williams next week so provided they arrive in time thats when i will try them.

Thanks to everyone that has offered advice, I've learned a few things along the way.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: ArchivalAudio on March 06, 2018, 06:58:08 PM
Just picked one of these up.
I am confused about the A/D filter.... can I turn it off?
settings state:
Quote
Select the A/D filter characteristics.
Option
Meaning
FIR1
A FIR digital filter with a sharp roll-off that
sharply cuts signals outside the audio band
is used.
FIR2
A FIR digital filter with a slow roll-off that
gently cuts signals outside the audio band is
used.
SHORT
DELAY1
(default)
A SHORT DELAY type digital filter with a
sharp roll-off that sharply cuts signals outside
the audio band is used.
SHORT
DELAY2
A SHORT DELAY type digital filter with a slow
roll-off that gently cuts signals outside the
audio band is used.
TIP
FIR digital filters
These filters have an established reputation for audio
quality. They feature a tonal quality with both dense rich
reverberations and crisp sounds.
SHORT DELAY digital filters
These feature tonal qualities that are close to the original
sounds. The starts of sounds and the reverberations are
natural without any pre-echo in the impulse response.

Idon't think I want any of those... can it be defeated? or what is the best setting for live rock/jazz/bluegrass music?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: rogs on March 06, 2018, 09:04:22 PM
I believe you have to select one of the filter modes  - so there's no option to defeat all filter selections.....
The ADC/DAC chip is the AK4558, and there is quite a lot of detail on all the parameters listed in the data sheet here : https://www.akm.com/akm/en/file/datasheet/AK4558EN.pdf  (including the filter differences on pages 11 thru 15)......
Pretty 'techy' information though....probably easier to try out the different modes, and see if you can detect any difference.....
I've only used the default setting myself so far....
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: ArchivalAudio on March 07, 2018, 12:30:58 AM
I believe you have to select one of the filter modes  - so there's no option to defeat all filter selections.....
The ADC/DAC chip is the AK4558, and there is quite a lot of detail on all the parameters listed in the data sheet here : https://www.akm.com/akm/en/file/datasheet/AK4558EN.pdf  (including the filter differences on pages 11 thru 15)......
Pretty 'techy' information though....probably easier to try out the different modes, and see if you can detect any difference.....
I've only used the default setting myself so far....

Oh .... wow - thanks for this pdf... I'll try and decifer and interpet
Also noticing that
Quote
SHORT DELAY2
A SHORT DELAY type digital filter with a slow
roll-off that gently cuts signals outside the
audio band is used.
SHORT DELAY digital filters
These feature tonal qualities that are close to the original
sounds. The starts of sounds and the reverberations are
natural without any pre-echo in the impulse response.
might be the way to go if I understand the bold italic notation correctly.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: DSatz on March 09, 2018, 10:52:09 PM
There must ALWAYS be some kind of low-pass filtering whenever you convert analog audio to digital. Any significant signal energy (from whatever source, including noise and distortion) at or above 1/2 the sampling frequency will cause distortion that's potentially quite nasty-sounding, since it's completely unrelated harmonically to the original sound.

In the early days of professional digital audio (ca. 1979) the sampling rate for most of the available recording equipment was fixed at 44.1 kHz, and the filters cut off the high frequencies right at 20 kHz. The entire response "dropoff" (typically 60 dB or greater!) thus occurred in the very narrow range between 20 kHz and 22.05 kHz. This steep cutoff required extremely complex filter circuits, which were implemented entirely in analog back then. Thus the filters were generally the weakest link in the audio "chain", with limited headroom, severe impulse response / group delay problems, plus a tendency to drift with temperature and the aging of their components. Also, they were damned expensive.

When recording equipment with higher sampling rates came along, for most people who were serious about audio quality, the main advantage was that the filters could be designed to cause less harm to signals at and below 20 kHz. That's what this menu is ultimately about, and it may well be worth paying some attention to the choices. Absence of pre-echo and low group delay are both desirable sonically--particularly the former, which is readily audible on specially-constructed test signals and occasionally even in real-world recording, e.g. certain percussion instruments if they're cleanly miked. So I would choose those features--"short delay 2" on this recorder--unless there was some reason to expect significant signal energy above the cutoff frequency, in which (highly unexpected) case I would choose the default "short delay 1".

In some special applications (e.g. acoustical measurements using miniature models of an architectural space; some sound effects) there's a legitimate need to preserve signals above 20 kHz--but only because after the recording has been made, the playback clock is slowed down so that those signals drop into the audible range.

--best regards
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on March 13, 2018, 04:30:09 PM
The practical answer for live music recording is don't worry about it too much.  The default setting is probably your best bet.  What is the default BTW?  FIR1 I assume?

You may well not hear any difference with live music recordings.  Make some test recordings and analyze the results (by listening, and/or on the computer if you have that capability), but make sure your test scenario is exactly the same for all test recordings, as even tiny differences in the recordings are likely to overshadow any subtle differences between filter choices.

If forced to pick one and move on, I'd probably choose a slow roll-off, especially if I was recording at higher sampling rates where even the slow roll off begins well above the audible range.  If recording at 44.1 or 48kHz (which I do), I might compare fast and slow roll off and listen for very slight differences in the very highest frequency content, assuming you have young ears that actually can hear to 15Hkz or beyond, and all else being equal between the test recordings.  Record some jangling keys- a good source of HF and ultrasonic content.  Recording your stereo reduces variables, but may not have enough HF bandwidth for this kind of test.

Without testing, I probably just choose with FIR2.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: ArchivalAudio on March 18, 2018, 04:42:26 PM
The practical answer for live music recording is don't worry about it too much.  The default setting is probably your best bet.  What is the default BTW?  FIR1 I assume?

Without testing, I probably just choose with FIR2.
Thanks... yes default is choice number 1 or FIR1

I still don't know why I can or want to change these settings. I am not even sure I'd be able to tell the difference at 24/48 (which is my default) nor do I really want to run a series of test recordings to figure it out. However it's and interesting feature.
I obviously would like the most neutral and transparent  or unchanged setting. I have not even tried out the unit yet.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Jammin72 on April 26, 2018, 05:34:49 PM
How are folks powering this thing for a festival?  The internal battery and swapping some NiMH batteries every 2 hours?  Or just using any one of the ubiquitous 5V battery packs.  I like the former idea just for the battery meter but it seems quite tiresome.

Also... it seem the consensus is any PA style music is needing the 20dB pad for most condenser microphones, right?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jcable77 on April 26, 2018, 06:42:55 PM
I use the 5v outof this along with powering a v3 or minime. By itself it would last a whole day.
https://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChcSEwiV9tyygdnaAhXvobMKHU_XB2sYABADGgJxbg&ohost=www.google.com&cid=CAESQOD2KUWonD6rFg8KO929i4ZtcSqPWkqxjjhl2jCeUkyFq_sZiIBjomh16Y2U_3bzqPUp3daVqfH8E-in_sfNLZo&sig=AOD64_0vgGpVzbE6byGKiejfmHSi4x_oxg&ctype=5&q=&ved=0ahUKEwiF_NaygdnaAhWyd98KHVwHA2MQwg8IKQ&adurl=
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: spyder9 on April 27, 2018, 02:38:07 PM
How are folks powering this thing for a festival?  The internal battery and swapping some NiMH batteries every 2 hours?  Or just using any one of the ubiquitous 5V battery packs.  I like the former idea just for the battery meter but it seems quite tiresome.

Also... it seem the consensus is any PA style music is needing the 20dB pad for most condenser microphones, right?

I've used it w/ phantom off, and got 5+ hours on the internal lithium only.  It never touched the AA's.  Impressive.  For a festie, a pair of Lithium AA's, coupled with the internal bat,  should power it all day.  Mind you, phantom off in this example. 
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Jammin72 on April 27, 2018, 06:44:06 PM
Right on, thanks for the insight. Folks Will be running power to CK63 caps using Niant PFA's.

I'm getting the unit on Monday so it will give me some time to see how the combination of batteries works out.

After killing my 4th 7.2 Tamiya in my FR-2LE (Totally my fault for leaving it connected after use.) I decided that I wasn't going to invest in any more RC Packs and go with a smaller unit that ran standard cells.

Guess I need to round up the accessories and get that listed in the YS.

So 20db Pad on for PA systems?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: cd2go on April 28, 2018, 10:14:17 AM
So 20db Pad on for PA systems?

I have very sensitive mics and I definitely have to use the pad for loud club shows. Usually leaves 6dB or so headroom. I’ve never clipped but usually have the limiter and dual level mode on for safety. Try first with the pad and you’ll have a good feel right away if you need it. It’s a great deck; fantastic screen with every piece of info you need clearly displayed, and lots of customizable tidbits. Good luck!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Jammin72 on April 28, 2018, 02:31:35 PM
So 20db Pad on for PA systems?

I have very sensitive mics and I definitely have to use the pad for loud club shows. Usually leaves 6dB or so headroom. I’ve never clipped but usually have the limiter and dual level mode on for safety. Try first with the pad and you’ll have a good feel right away if you need it. It’s a great deck; fantastic screen with every piece of info you need clearly displayed, and lots of customizable tidbits. Good luck!

+T
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Jammin72 on April 30, 2018, 06:40:08 PM
Love the feel and size of this thing. It's amazing how small a truly competent all in one with XLR and phantom power has gotten.  Love the battery system for most situations.

FWIW  This case from Hermit Shell for the H4n pro fits it perfectly.

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61GCRRwuKPL._SL1000_.jpg)

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61MVH6lJt6L._SL1000_.jpg)

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: rogs on May 01, 2018, 06:56:56 AM
Thanks for the heads up on the Hermit Shell case....been looking for a case for a while.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Jammin72 on May 07, 2018, 02:42:37 PM
Thing worked like a champ.  I only ended up recording 6 acts but power swap worked perfectly and the levels are easy to monitor with the flashing LED's by the XLR inputs.  Ganged channels with a large rotary encoder makes level adjustment easy enough.  Also the pad is definitely a must. Was running the CK63's at around -10db or 10-11 o'clock on the visually rendered "knob".  For a quick up and go with a set of mics and not much post mixing intended it's a great little box.  About the only thing I would want to add for my usage pattern is back-lit controls but that's just being picky.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: DYMS on July 26, 2018, 06:17:40 AM
On page 28 of the user manual, there is mention of something called XRI data. A bit of a search reveals that this is a Tascam thing for recording info to the wave files. Is this useful for anything outside the TASCAM world? I saw some discussion in a few other threads, but I was wondering if this information carries over in the files to be used by other apps.

For example, the manual mentions that Peaks can be auto-tagged with markers, and these markers can be saved with XRI. Can these files (with peak markers) be identified in audio apps on a PC?

Trying to determine if there is any workflow value to this function. Would be cool if TASCAM introduced a bluetooth remote that could allow MKiii control via smartphone app for adding GPS data, etc :)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 05, 2018, 08:18:10 AM
I just noticed there's a firmware update for the DR100mk3 (FW v.1.05) from last February:

http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/downloads/
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: rogs on August 07, 2018, 05:45:24 AM
Thanks for the heads up on this...I'd missed that.. I obviously need to check the Tascam website more often!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on August 07, 2018, 08:20:15 AM
Thanks for the heads up on this...I'd missed that.. I obviously need to check the Tascam website more often!

Me too!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jcable77 on August 07, 2018, 08:30:05 AM
Thank you.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jcable77 on August 07, 2018, 05:22:06 PM
Dumb ass question but what sequence of buttons is it to get it into update mode, I forgot from last time I updated firmware and its not in the manual. Thanks
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jbell on August 07, 2018, 05:30:04 PM
Should be in the firmware instructions!!

http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/downloads/

Dumb ass question but what sequence of buttons is it to get it into update mode, I forgot from last time I updated firmware and its not in the manual. Thanks
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jcable77 on August 07, 2018, 05:32:29 PM
Should be in the firmware instructions!!

http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/downloads/

Dumb ass question but what sequence of buttons is it to get it into update mode, I forgot from last time I updated firmware and its not in the manual. Thanks
It isnt. Nor is it in the manual, unless i overlooked it.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jcable77 on August 07, 2018, 05:33:30 PM
Should be in the firmware instructions!!

http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/downloads/

Dumb ass question but what sequence of buttons is it to get it into update mode, I forgot from last time I updated firmware and its not in the manual. Thanks


Oops. Just found it.
It isnt. Nor is it in the manual, unless i overlooked it.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Dede2002 on August 10, 2018, 11:50:14 AM
Should be in the firmware instructions!!

http://tascam.com/product/DR-100mkIII/downloads/

Dumb ass question but what sequence of buttons is it to get it into update mode, I forgot from last time I updated firmware and its not in the manual. Thanks


Oops. Just found it.
It isnt. Nor is it in the manual, unless i overlooked it.

There you go!

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: MVCG-17002 on October 19, 2018, 04:22:27 PM
So  I got a DR-100III and pair of DPA 4061s with DAD6001s Reddot to XLR connectors. I want to record some Rock/Grunge/Metall shows, so it will be pretty loud...
What would be the best settings to do that?

Pad seems to be a good idea.
Limiter aswell.
Dual ADC cannot be used with the limiter.
Dual level recording also seems to be a good idea, but it cannot be used when dual ADC is used. Using dual level with the limiter should work though (the limiter only affects the louder signal).

Should I use the low cut filter? Options are Off/40/80/120/220Hz...

So what would you say is the best combination of settings for a loud stealth show, where checking levels is not possible at all times...

thanks
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Dede2002 on October 21, 2018, 09:39:43 AM
So  I got a DR-100III and pair of DPA 4061s with DAD6001s Reddot to XLR connectors. I want to record some Rock/Grunge/Metall shows, so it will be pretty loud...
What would be the best settings to do that?

You have a superb recorder and awesome mics!

Pad seems to be a good idea.
Yep. Not only a good idea: it's something you need to do.

Limiter aswell.
Nope. You don't want that, trust me.

Dual ADC cannot be used with the limiter.

What I've just said. Do use Dual ADC, sir

Dual level recording also seems to be a good idea, but it cannot be used when dual ADC is used. Using dual level with the limiter should work though (the limiter only affects the louder signal).

Should I use the low cut filter? Options are Off/40/80/120/220Hz...

I wouldn't go that way. In my experience you can always remove undesirable bass on post.

So what would you say is the best combination of settings for a loud stealth show, where checking levels is not possible at all times...
Look, the DR-100mkiii is not exactly small. It's not huge, but it's far from easy to hide. Add to that the big XLR connectors  :o. I'm no DPA expert, but if I were you, I would buy an adapter (DPA has a wide variety of adapters) terminated with a right angle plug to use the Ext In (either Line or Mic) . Well, stealth or not you need to check the levels. But as a really (really!) basic guide, if you're runnning Line In, be ready to set your recording levels up to 9 or 10 (12 being the highest level) even for really loud shows. But if you're using Ext Mic (even with the Mic Pad engaged) I doubt you're going to exceed recording levels greater than 7 or 8 (28 is the maximum).

thanks

You're welcome
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: junkyardt on October 21, 2018, 11:02:40 AM
yeah, i’m not sure why you chose the dr-100mkiii if hardcore stealth is your thing. i had a dr-100mkii and ended up selling it because it was too big and bulky for that purpose. i would highly recommend what the other guy said by getting some sort of option that allows your dpas to terminate in a 1/8” plug, and then sell your dr-100mkiii and get a roland r-07 instead. the r-07 is much smaller and it also takes care of your concern about checking levels, because the r-07 has a companion phone app that lets you start and stop recordings and set levels all from the app without ever touching the recorder itself. this is something you can’t do with the tascam.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Dede2002 on October 21, 2018, 12:56:19 PM
yeah, i’m not sure why you chose the dr-100mkiii if hardcore stealth is your thing. i had a dr-100mkii and ended up selling it because it was too big and bulky for that purpose. i would highly recommend what the other guy said by getting some sort of option that allows your dpas to terminate in a 1/8” plug, and then sell your dr-100mkiii and get a roland r-07 instead. the r-07 is much smaller and it also takes care of your concern about checking levels, because the r-07 has a companion phone app that lets you start and stop recordings and set levels all from the app without ever touching the recorder itself. this is something you can’t do with the tascam.

I confess that I thought about selling my DR-mkIII because of its size. But I love the feel and performance of this recorder. I've never used the Roland R-07. But as an Edirol R 09 and R 09HR user I'm sure that your recommendation is spot on. In this category I would also recommend the Marantz PMD 620. Impressive little machine. Take care.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: gewwang on October 21, 2018, 01:15:00 PM
It's a tradeoff, but I'll trade off the larger size of stealthing with the tascam for gaining the security of the XLR connection between the mics and the recorder. The unit fits in the front pocket of baggy cargo shorts or the front pocket of most hoodies, you just need to set the levels conservatively and sneak a peak or two during a loud passage when the show begins, then set and forget the levels.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: junkyardt on October 21, 2018, 02:29:30 PM
yeah, i don’t want to imply i’m crapping on the tascam at all. i owned the dr-100mkii for about a year from july 2017 to july 2018 or so, and made a number of great recordings with it in that time. i’m sure the mkiii is even better. once i got a mixpre-6 a few months ago i no longer needed the tascam for open or light stealth situations, and found it too big to be comfortable crotching for heavy stealth situations. thus it was kind of caught in a no-mans land middle ground for me where it would just collect dust, so i sold it and put the $ toward an r-07. the tiny size makes the r-07 great for crotching and the ability to be fiddling with it from your phone without ever touching the unit itself is great for situations where you have a security guard staring at you all night. but yeah, if you don’t mind the extra bulk, the dr-100 is a great unit, and the xlr inputs are a nice feature.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: MVCG-17002 on October 22, 2018, 09:06:28 PM
Thanks guys. Seems like even with all the new tech in there it's still not fire and forget... I'll check out your suggestions for the settings and keep an eye on the levels while recording.

Won't get rid of the Tascam or the XLR plugs. I got it not only for going stealth bit I need it for other stuff aswell.
Going stealth with the Tascam is not an issue for me. I have taped a lot of shows using my Sony TCD-D8 back in the day, and size was never an issue. We also don't have crazy security here in Berlin.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Sebastian on October 23, 2018, 01:45:07 AM
We also don't have crazy security here in Berlin.

...except for Mercedes-Benz-Arena and Verti Music Hall. ;-)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jerryfreak on May 04, 2019, 05:25:56 AM
I got a 512gb microsdxc card for my A10 and decided to try it in the mkiii for shits and giggles. It wont accept it. is there a workaround to format it in on a PC using one of the SD card formatting tools?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 15, 2019, 11:05:15 AM
I need some help determining if the DR-100mkIII line-in input actually bypasses the mic inputs.

Attached is part of the block diagram for the recorder. There is a signal path from the TRS input that ends with a box labelled "165".

This path does NOT go through the mic preamp. Anyone know what this means?

I've also attached the entire block diagram.

Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: spyder9 on November 15, 2019, 11:50:36 AM
Yes, the TRS's do go through the Mic Preamps.  You're reading the diagram wrong.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 15, 2019, 11:58:26 AM
Yes, the TRS's do go through the Mic Preamps.  You're reading the diagram wrong.

Thanks. Any idea what the box labelled “165” refers to? It’s at the end of the path labelled “TRS 1 DET”.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on November 15, 2019, 12:51:00 PM
Both TRS and XLR inputs share the same signal path.  If the diagram is correct (there is at least one obvious mistake on it), the XLR input signals actually go through the TRS contact switches before reaching the preamp chip, meaning that inserting a TRS plug breaks the connections from the XLR jack.  Not sure why they'd wire it that way, but you'll be well advised to keep the TRS portion of the combo jacks clean because of that.

TRS 1 DET (and TRS 2 DET) seem likely to indicate TRS insert detection switch lines.  Probably used to switch input gain from line to mic level if that's done automatically by which input is used rather than by the user. The 165 box is not a component but a connection flag which indicates that signal connection to another diagram or another point on this one.

I need some help determining if the DR-100mkIII line-in input actually bypasses the mic inputs.

Why?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 15, 2019, 02:16:36 PM
Both TRS and XLR inputs share the same signal path.  If the diagram is correct (there is at least one obvious mistake on it), the XLR input signals actually go through the TRS contact switches before reaching the preamp chip, meaning that inserting a TRS plug breaks the connections from the XLR jack.  Not sure why they'd wire it that way, but you'll be well advised to keep the TRS portion of the combo jacks clean because of that.

TRS 1 DET (and TRS 2 DET) seem likely to indicate TRS insert detection switch lines.  Probably used to switch input gain from line to mic level if that's done automatically by which input is used rather than by the user. The 165 box is not a component but a connection flag which indicates that signal connection to another diagram or another point on this one.

I need some help determining if the DR-100mkIII line-in input actually bypasses the mic inputs.

Why?

Thanks for that detailed explanation.

Why? Because I want to plug an external preamp into the DR-100mkiii line input and I was hoping it would be wired like the Tascam DR680 and therefore could bypass the mic preamps.

(I meant to say “I need some help determining if the DR-100mkIII line-in input actually bypasses the mic preamps.”)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on November 15, 2019, 05:35:47 PM
I'm not sure DR680 line-in bypasses the mic preamps.  Many modern recorders do not, they just reduce the gain of the preamp stage to line-input level.  But that doesn't mean you can't use an external preamp if you like.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 15, 2019, 11:06:34 PM
Here's the block diagram from the DR680 manual. Perhaps I'm reading it wrong. I don't know much about these things.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: spyder9 on November 17, 2019, 08:51:42 AM
If you want to bypass the Tascam DR-100 mkii's mic preamps, then use the 3.5mm Line-In.  It's located on the top of the unit, labeled "Ext-In".
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 17, 2019, 10:03:43 AM
If you want to bypass the Tascam DR-100 mkii's mic preamps, then use the 3.5mm Line-In.  It's located on the top of the unit, labeled "Ext-In".

Thanks. I thought of doing that, but figured going into the TRS input would be better quality.

(I was coming out of a Sound Devices 302 with XLR>TRS cables.)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jerryfreak on November 17, 2019, 10:45:28 AM
depends. if your output is balanced id think the xlrs would be the way to go.

also as far as  "quality" goes, that conversation is out the window when your minijack connection fritzes out during a recording
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 17, 2019, 12:27:54 PM
depends. if your output is balanced id think the xlrs would be the way to go.

also as far as  "quality" goes, that conversation is out the window when your minijack connection fritzes out during a recording

The 302 does also have an unbalanced output, but as you point out, the recorder’s minijack is not a robust connection.

Do you ever put a preamp in front of your DR100mkiii?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on November 17, 2019, 12:33:13 PM
If the trs line levels go through the preamps then why can't the gain be adjusted by using the gain knob? I'm not arguing the the point, just curious.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: spyder9 on November 17, 2019, 08:13:30 PM
depends. if your output is balanced id think the xlrs would be the way to go.

also as far as  "quality" goes, that conversation is out the window when your minijack connection fritzes out during a recording

The 302 does also have an unbalanced output, but as you point out, the recorder’s minijack is not a robust connection.

Do you ever put a preamp in front of your DR100mkiii?

Yup, I did.  I went TRS in, w/ a Shure FP24 out in front.  I used the XLR Line out on the FP24....

https://archive.org/details/deadandco2017-06-30.dr100.spyder9.flac16

https://archive.org/details/deadandco2017-07-01.dr100.spyder9.flac16



Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 17, 2019, 10:59:44 PM
depends. if your output is balanced id think the xlrs would be the way to go.

also as far as  "quality" goes, that conversation is out the window when your minijack connection fritzes out during a recording

The 302 does also have an unbalanced output, but as you point out, the recorder’s minijack is not a robust connection.

Do you ever put a preamp in front of your DR100mkiii?

Yup, I did.  I went TRS in, w/ a Shure FP24 out in front.  I used the XLR Line out on the FP24....

https://archive.org/details/deadandco2017-06-30.dr100.spyder9.flac16

https://archive.org/details/deadandco2017-07-01.dr100.spyder9.flac16

That sounds really good. (I've never heard their rendition of "Not Fade Away".) However it does seem a little undefined in the bass and drums. Is that what it was like live?

That's the problem I had when using the 302 in front of my DR100mkiii going XLR>TRS. When I monitored the material through the 302 headphone out, it was terrific. But the recording when played back off the DR100mkiii seemed undefined in the low end.

Now I wonder if that was because the line-in goes through the mic preamp, so in effect I was using two piggybacked preamps and it was leaving things muddy.

Thanks for posting those concerts!
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on November 18, 2019, 04:08:57 PM
Here's the block diagram from the DR680 manual. Perhaps I'm reading it wrong. I don't know much about these things.

According to that DR-680 diagram the only difference between XLR and TRS input routing is the input jack itself.  Both XLR and TRS go through the same preamp circuit.  Preamp line/mic sensitivity switching is made to the circuit via the hardware switch.

If the trs line levels go through the preamps then why can't the gain be adjusted by using the gain knob? I'm not arguing the the point, just curious.

All depends on how they program it.  The TRS DET lines (TRS insert detection) of the Zoom trigger whatever logic they program to occur when a TRS plug is inserted into the input rather than an XLR plug.   I would seem to perform the same gain sensitivity switching role as the hardware switches on the DR-680, but may also do other things like disabling gain knob adjustment.


What is common to both recorders is that all signals pass through the same preamp circuitry.  This is how most all modern recorders work.  If it makes you feel better when using an external preamp, think of the recorder's preamp stage in low-gain mode as being an input-buffer stage.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on November 18, 2019, 04:25:42 PM
If you want to bypass the Tascam DR-100 mkii MkIII's mic preamps, then use the 3.5mm Line-In.  It's located on the top of the unit, labeled "Ext-In".

This is correct and confirmed by the diagram posted previously, which indicates signal into the 3.3mm mini-jack line-in of the DR-100mkIII is not routed through the OPA amplifier chip that signal from both the TRS & XLR inputs pass through.

So.. internal mic-pre is bypassable on the DR-100MK2 MK3 by using the 3.5mm line-in jack.  Internal mic-pre on the DR-680 is not bypassable.


[edited to correct Mk2 to Mk3]

[2nd edit]
You cannot bypass the input amplifiers.

According to the schematic, all analog inputs of the DR-100MK3 pass through OPA1652 amplifier chips.  The 3.5mm mini-jack [Ext-In] and internal mics passes through a seperate one than the XLR/TRS Line/Mic inputs which share another.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jerryfreak on November 18, 2019, 04:50:03 PM
i see some intermingling there

just to be clear youre saying that 3.5mm jack on BOTH mkII and mkIII bypasses preamp circuit, and line-in on both mkII and mkIII goes thru preamps
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 18, 2019, 05:04:31 PM
Here's the block diagram from the DR680 manual. Perhaps I'm reading it wrong. I don't know much about these things.

According to that DR-680 diagram the only difference between XLR and TRS input routing is the input jack itself.  Both XLR and TRS go through the same preamp circuit.  Preamp line/mic sensitivity switching is made to the circuit via the hardware switch.


It’s not the difference between xlr and TRS inputs in this case (unlike the dr100mkiii) that caught my eye, but that the line-in path seems to go through a different preamp (the Line AMP) than the mic input on both input jacks, and that these separate paths are governed by the line/mic switch. To me it still looks like the line input does not go through the mic preamp. Otherwise, what is the difference between the “Line AMP” and the “Mic AMP”?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on November 18, 2019, 05:15:15 PM
i see some intermingling there

just to be clear youre saying that 3.5mm jack on BOTH mkII and mkIII bypasses preamp circuit, and line-in on both mkII and mkIII goes thru preamps

Oops, I meant Mk3 (now corrected in my post above), as recently posted by dogmusic on the preceding page of this thread.  That is the only schematic I've looked at other than the DR-680 diagram posted above.  I haven't looked at a DR-100Mk2 diagram.

Thanks for catching that.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on November 18, 2019, 05:24:01 PM
Here's the block diagram from the DR680 manual. Perhaps I'm reading it wrong. I don't know much about these things.

According to that DR-680 diagram the only difference between XLR and TRS input routing is the input jack itself.  Both XLR and TRS go through the same preamp circuit.  Preamp line/mic sensitivity switching is made to the circuit via the hardware switch.


It’s not the difference between xlr and TRS inputs in this case (unlike the dr100mkiii) that caught my eye, but that the line-in path seems to go through a different preamp (the Line AMP) than the mic input on both input jacks, and that these separate paths are governed by the line/mic switch. To me it still looks like the line input does not go through the mic preamp. Otherwise, what is the difference between the “Line AMP” and the “Mic AMP”?

I'm a bit out of it today.. You are correct, the DR-680 diagram does show seperate line and mic preamp sections.   Both the TRS and XLR inputs feed either.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jerryfreak on November 18, 2019, 05:53:14 PM
so again, is this correct:

3.5mm jack on BOTH mkII and mkIII bypasses preamp circuit, and line-in on both mkII and mkIII goes thru preamps
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on November 19, 2019, 12:13:03 AM
No.  I just went back to take a closer look at the schematic for the DR100MK3. All of the analog inputs pass through OPA1652 chip amps.  The XLR/TRS Line/Mic inputs share one. The 3.5mm mini-jack [Ext-In] and internal mics share another.  The input preamps cannot be bypassed by choosing an alternate input.

The chip shared by the Ext-In and internal mics is drawn much smaller on the schematic and is located after a switching array, making it easy to miss.

I've not seen the schematic for the DR100-MK2.


Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 19, 2019, 11:33:23 AM
Here is part of the schematic (file size was too large for all of it) plus a block diagram for the DR100-MK2.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Gutbucket on November 19, 2019, 03:43:14 PM
In the MK2 only the XLR inputs are routed through a separate preamp chip(s).  ID of the chip is not specified on the schematic so not certain if it is different to Mk3.  What is different is that Line-in and internal mics are routed directly to the NJW1194  PGA (programmable gate array) without going through a separate preamp chip(s) first.  The PGA performs the buffer/amp duties for those inputs along with its other duties.  That isn't inherently bad, but generally reflects a lower performance spec than a seperate amp chip, otherwise there would be no reason to incur the cost of an additional preamp chip component.

EE types and DIY circuit folks familiar with these chips may be able to offer more specific insights into them.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on November 19, 2019, 07:08:55 PM
Looking at the DR100mk2 block diagram, I was surprised to see that it has an analog limiter.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: heva on December 18, 2019, 06:53:20 AM
Could anyone tell what the input levels [the rotary dials in the LCD] display?

Is it in dB or just some numbering?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jerryfreak on December 18, 2019, 05:06:53 PM
dB
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Jammin72 on February 12, 2020, 02:08:12 PM
So did a Punk club show on Sunday.  For some bands I had to record with the pad on and had to set it at .05-1 on the "knob".    Anyone with more tech knowledge know what would happen if we just switched to line input with the phantom power on?  The difference in signal level seems like it would be fine for something like that, my only question is about the input impedance.

Per the recorder specs:

Quote
MIC/LINE IN jacks (XLR support phantom power)
Connectors:
XLR-3-31
(1: GND, 2: HOT, 3: COLD)
6.3mm (1/4") standard TRS jacks
(Tip: HOT, Ring: COLD, Sleeve: GND)
When MIC input source selected
Maximum input level: +2 dBu (PAD on)
Minimum input level: −70.5 dBu (PAD off)
Input impedance
i XLR input: 2 kΩ or more
i TRS input: 20 kΩ or more
When LINE input source selected
Maximum input level: +24 dBu
Nominal input level: +4 dBu
Input impedance: 20 kΩ or more

I'm guessing the unit looking for 10x the impedance could be an issue with self noise but otherwise... not sure.

Guess I could just try it, running external attenuators seems silly after spending so much $$ slimming everything down.   ;)
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dallman on February 13, 2020, 11:37:12 AM
So did a Punk club show on Sunday.  For some bands I had to record with the pad on and had to set it at .05-1 on the "knob".    Anyone with more tech knowledge know what would happen if we just switched to line input with the phantom power on?  The difference in signal level seems like it would be fine for something like that, my only question is about the input impedance.

Per the recorder specs:

Quote
MIC/LINE IN jacks (XLR support phantom power)
Connectors:
XLR-3-31
(1: GND, 2: HOT, 3: COLD)
6.3mm (1/4") standard TRS jacks
(Tip: HOT, Ring: COLD, Sleeve: GND)
When MIC input source selected
Maximum input level: +2 dBu (PAD on)
Minimum input level: −70.5 dBu (PAD off)
Input impedance
i XLR input: 2 kΩ or more
i TRS input: 20 kΩ or more
When LINE input source selected
Maximum input level: +24 dBu
Nominal input level: +4 dBu
Input impedance: 20 kΩ or more

I'm guessing the unit looking for 10x the impedance could be an issue with self noise but otherwise... not sure.

Guess I could just try it, running external attenuators seems silly after spending so much $$ slimming everything down.   ;)
I'm not sure if I fully understand your comments, but as I think you are noting the DR100MKIII has (like many other recorders or pre-amps have in one way shape or form) has a mic pad for recording at a lower attenuation. This is specifically designed for most situations where you would be recording live amplified audience recordings. I do not know if or how much it raises the noise floor, but for a live loud band, it would not be an issue. If I use the deck, I always have to have this set or my recording will distort or come close. Using an external attenuator is not necessary nor would the recording be better than using the built in mic pad. I'd recommend using the mic pad which is a built in attenuator designed for exactly the situation you are recording in, that is what it was designed for. The higher attenuation is for much softer recording like nature or acoustic music.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Jammin72 on February 13, 2020, 11:55:04 AM

I'm not sure if I fully understand your comments, but as I think you are noting the DR100MKIII has (like many other recorders or pre-amps have in one way shape or form) has a mic pad for recording at a lower attenuation. This is specifically designed for most situations where you would be recording live amplified audience recordings. I do not know if or how much it raises the noise floor, but for a live loud band, it would not be an issue. If I use the deck, I always have to have this set or my recording will distort or come close. Using an external attenuator is not necessary nor would the recording be better than using the built in mic pad. I'd recommend using the mic pad which is a built in attenuator designed for exactly the situation you are recording in, that is what it was designed for. The higher attenuation is for much softer recording like nature or acoustic music.

I do use the pad.  But even with the pad engaged I could only use the record level at somewhere between 0.5 and 3 on the dial.  That's not really ideal considering a range of 31.5.  I was simply musing that the difference between mic in with the pad engaged at the extreme and line in is the difference between +2dB and +4dB so signal isn't that far off.  Theoretically you could run mics in that situation with the unit selected to line in and gain a lot more headroom BUT there is a difference in load expected which I'm not entirely sure how that's going to effect things.  From what I've read it increases the noise floor but I wasn't sure if that was the only issue.  I guess I'll just try testing it at another similar situation on stuff I don't care about as much.  Another option would be to use the unit at 24V phantom to see if that would be enough to power AKG capsules using a PFA which would lower the output of the mics but I'm guessing would impact performance.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: aaronji on February 14, 2020, 06:16:29 AM
^ If you can still use phantom power when the input is set to "line" (I think so, but I am not certain), I would try that. Per the specs, you'll get a 22 dB higher maximum input level compared to mic-in with the pad.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on July 13, 2020, 09:34:03 AM
A fantastic deal for an underrated recorder (no affiliation) :

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1263849-REG/tascam_dr_100mkiii_linear_pcm_recorder.html
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Papaphunk on September 16, 2020, 04:58:40 PM
How are folks powering this thing for a festival?  The internal battery and swapping some NiMH batteries every 2 hours?  Or just using any one of the ubiquitous 5V battery packs.  I like the former idea just for the battery meter but it seems quite tiresome.

Also... it seem the consensus is any PA style music is needing the 20dB pad for most condenser microphones, right?

I've used it w/ phantom off, and got 5+ hours on the internal lithium only.  It never touched the AA's.  Impressive.  For a festie, a pair of Lithium AA's, coupled with the internal bat,  should power it all day.  Mind you, phantom off in this example.

Picked one of these up from a fellow taper here. Been using the DR-100mkII recorder for the past 5 years.....wondering what the Battery time is with Phantom Power On to charge 2 External Mic's ? Will probably be using an external PowerPack for Piece of Mind, just curious how long the internal batteries might hold.

Looking forward to working with this new upgraded unit later this month.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dogmusic on September 20, 2020, 08:35:04 AM
How are folks powering this thing for a festival?  The internal battery and swapping some NiMH batteries every 2 hours?  Or just using any one of the ubiquitous 5V battery packs.  I like the former idea just for the battery meter but it seems quite tiresome.

Also... it seem the consensus is any PA style music is needing the 20dB pad for most condenser microphones, right?

I've used it w/ phantom off, and got 5+ hours on the internal lithium only.  It never touched the AA's.  Impressive.  For a festie, a pair of Lithium AA's, coupled with the internal bat,  should power it all day.  Mind you, phantom off in this example.

Picked one of these up from a fellow taper here. Been using the DR-100mkII recorder for the past 5 years.....wondering what the Battery time is with Phantom Power On to charge 2 External Mic's ? Will probably be using an external PowerPack for Piece of Mind, just curious how long the internal batteries might hold.

Looking forward to working with this new upgraded unit later this month.

I’ve gotten about 4.5 hours in that configuration on internal lithium battery only. That was at 24/192. If you do 24/48, you’ll probably get more time.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Papaphunk on September 21, 2020, 01:49:47 PM
^^^ perfect, that is what I was hoping for.

Second Query - On my Tascam DR-100mkii there is a Gain Switch on the underside of the unit -> L - M - H options - I usually go M and watch my levels.

Is there a similar Gain option setting for the mkIII unit ?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: heva on September 21, 2020, 03:15:47 PM
Second Query - On my Tascam DR-100mkii there is a Gain Switch on the underside of the unit -> L - M - H options - I usually go M and watch my levels.

Is there a similar Gain option setting for the mkIII unit ?

No.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Papaphunk on October 05, 2020, 10:53:31 AM
Something I learned this weekend with this new deck......SBD Source was coming out hot so I turned the levels all the way down to 0.0 and source still came through.

Second set - the Sound guy was able to adjust his output down and came out a little more even. I used the first track from my AKG recording in place of the SBD options who's levels were through the roof. Still getting used to each other, but enjoying this solid deck as my second SBD option at local outdoor music gatherings

https://archive.org/details/DeadonLive2020-10-03.SBD.Flac24
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on June 25, 2021, 08:22:40 AM
The DR-100 mkIII has been discontinued (https://tascam.com/int/product/dr-100mkiii/top). I just recommended it to a new member here, and the only retailer I see selling it currently is Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Tascam-DR-100MKIII-192kHz-Portable-Recorder/dp/B01I54S1S0).

It's too bad to see this one go, and I hope it will be replaced soon. The closest equivalent in features seems to be the DR-40X, but the distortion and S/N figures are not nearly as good as the 100mkIII.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: heva on June 25, 2021, 01:54:49 PM
Pity, there’s no real alternative.
Not expecting Tascam to come up with something in the same league.
At least, I got one on time 😎
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: vwmule on August 23, 2021, 03:36:57 PM
I got a unit from Amazon and ran it for the first time last night, running nBob Gefell active setup straight into the XLR inputs. But I was overloading even with the gain turned all the way down. Only after I engaged the mic pad did things work correctly.

Does anyone have a cheat sheet of settings for this kind of recording? Maybe I missed a step.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: aaronji on August 23, 2021, 05:03:43 PM
^ Per Tascam's website, the maximum input level for the mic input is -14 dBu with the pad engaged. I don't know how sensitive your mics are, but that could be an issue if they are sensitive and the music is loud. See the table on the Sengpiel site (http://www.sengpielaudio.com/calculator-transferfactor.htm).
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: vwmule on August 23, 2021, 05:30:32 PM
Appreciate the info. Thanks it's the M21 hyper cap. Can't imagine it's that sensitive.

Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: aaronji on August 23, 2021, 05:51:05 PM
The M210 has a sensitivity of 13 mV/Pa. That would lead to -14 dBu output at about 115.5 dBSPL (if the active set-up doesn't affect the sensitivity). University of Michigan (https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tf4173), and a couple of other sites that came up in a quick search, put a loud rock concert at 120 dBSPL. I don't think that is typical, but I live in a country where that is pretty strictly regulated. You might have occasional issues with loud peaks at the recorder, but the mics shouldn't be an issue (max SPL for 0.5% THD is 135 dB, again assuming the specs don't change with the actives).
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: Papaphunk on August 24, 2021, 11:35:17 AM
Bummer, my inside metal bit that holds the USB Charger on the side, fell out / disappeared after coming back from Phish Hershey. I don't see an easy fix unless I depend solely on AA Battery Power. This was a solid unit - ended up splurging on a zoom H6 in the mean time from reverb to replace it.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jbell on August 29, 2021, 04:11:51 PM
You get things sorted??  Curious if this deck plays nice with the MG setup.

Appreciate the info. Thanks it's the M21 hyper cap. Can't imagine it's that sensitive.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: vwmule on August 29, 2021, 08:00:39 PM
I haven't tried again. I'm scrolled through this thread and see others had similar issue with different mics.

Pretty surprising; I've never run a pad on a recorder before. Does it diminish the sound?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jbell on August 30, 2021, 05:36:41 PM
I was thinking of getting the DR100 MKiii for a small run and gun rig.  I was think mics > DR100, but might not be a good fit it seems.  I'm not sure about the pad and how it will affect the sound. 

I haven't tried again. I'm scrolled through this thread and see others had similar issue with different mics.

Pretty surprising; I've never run a pad on a recorder before. Does it diminish the sound?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: mepaca on August 30, 2021, 05:46:01 PM
The pad should be engaged when using condenser mics.

I was thinking of getting the DR100 MKiii for a small run and gun rig.  I was think mics > DR100, but might not be a good fit it seems.  I'm not sure about the pad and how it will affect the sound. 

I haven't tried again. I'm scrolled through this thread and see others had similar issue with different mics.

Pretty surprising; I've never run a pad on a recorder before. Does it diminish the sound?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on August 30, 2021, 07:17:12 PM
The pad should be engaged when using condenser mics.

I was thinking of getting the DR100 MKiii for a small run and gun rig.  I was think mics > DR100, but might not be a good fit it seems.  I'm not sure about the pad and how it will affect the sound. 

I haven't tried again. I'm scrolled through this thread and see others had similar issue with different mics.

Pretty surprising; I've never run a pad on a recorder before. Does it diminish the sound?

I would stop short of recommending an input pad always be used with condenser mics. They are all over the map in terms of sensitivity. That said, I don't think a pad should have any negative effects on sound quality.

vwmule, how loud a source were you recording? The M 21 isn't all that sensitive, so I'm guessing something was putting out some serious levels.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: vwmule on August 31, 2021, 12:54:04 AM
It was a Baltimore bluegrass band, Smooth Kentucky, featuring Cris Jacobs.

No chance the PA was too loud. I recorded DPA 4023 on stage + SBD so I made a nice capture. (https://archive.org/details/smoothkentucky2021-08-22.vwmule)

But I decided to try the newly-purchased Tascam with the Gefell in the sweet spot, as pictured. Wonder if deck is faulty or if I have a setting off, though I don't think so. It was not loud by any means. Without pad, the levels were extreme.

One other thing: I used the Gefell this past Friday for Drive-By Truckers -- now that was loud -- paired with Sound Devices MP6 and had no issue.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: dallman on September 01, 2021, 04:52:36 PM
It was a Baltimore bluegrass band, Smooth Kentucky, featuring Cris Jacobs.

No chance the PA was too loud. I recorded DPA 4023 on stage + SBD so I made a nice capture. (https://archive.org/details/smoothkentucky2021-08-22.vwmule)

But I decided to try the newly-purchased Tascam with the Gefell in the sweet spot, as pictured. Wonder if deck is faulty or if I have a setting off, though I don't think so. It was not loud by any means. Without pad, the levels were extreme.

One other thing: I used the Gefell this past Friday for Drive-By Truckers -- now that was loud -- paired with Sound Devices MP6 and had no issue.
Although I use the deck as a bit bucket nowadays, I have never seen a set of XLR mics run on the MKIII that did not require the pad to be used. That said, it in no way affects the quality of the recording, the deck for whatever reason was calibrated to run really hot when using XLR mics.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: vwmule on September 01, 2021, 06:10:10 PM
Much appreciate the responses. Pad it is!

The deck is pretty slick. I'll try it out again soon.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jbell on September 13, 2021, 03:10:13 PM
Anyone have a Oade concert mod DR100 mkiii??  Debating getting one.
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: heva on September 15, 2021, 07:37:18 AM
Their site is down - out of business?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: jbell on September 15, 2021, 02:35:57 PM
Works fine for me!

Their site is down - out of business?
Title: Re: TASCAM DR-100mkIII NEW Unreleased Recorder
Post by: voltronic on September 16, 2021, 07:06:22 AM
I replied to this, but for some reason it was deleted. Trying again...

The Oade mod for the DR-100 mkIII is the Audiophile mod for $175. They say this about it:

Quote
The Tascam DR100MKIII Audiophile MOD rebuilds the microphone preamp with state of the art components resulting in true high end sound quality.

I suppose we have to trust them, because they don't say what exactly they are doing, how it impacts runtime, measurements before and after, etc.

The mkIII has excellent stock preamps so I don't know if such a mod is warranted. Consider that with the price of the recorder + mod, you are around $500. That's a LOT for a 2-input recorder, and you might as well just save another $200 to get a Zoom F6, or upgrade your mics. Just my 2 cents.