D01157920A DR-40 Linear PCM Recorder This device has a serial number located on the bottom panel. Please record it and retain it for your records.
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS Declaration of Conformity Model Number: Trade Name: Responsible party: Address: Telephone number: DR-40 TASCAM TEAC AMERICA, INC. 7733 Telegraph Road, Montebello, California, U.S. A. 1-323-726-0303 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Read these instructions. Keep these instructions. Heed all warnings. Follow all instructions. Do not use this apparatus near water. Clean only with dry cloth. Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. 8 Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Safety Information 88 Cautions about Batteries This product uses batteries. Misuse of batteries could cause a leak, rupture or other trouble. Always abide by the following precautions when using batteries. •• Never recharge non-rechargeable batteries. The batteries could rupture or leak, causing fire or injury. •• When installing batteries, pay attention to the polarity indications (plus/minus (+/–) orientation), and install them correctly in the battery compartment as indicated.
Safety Information Disposal of batteries and/or accumulators (a) Waste batteries and/or accumulators should be disposed of separately from the municipal waste stream via designated collection facilities appointed by the government or the local authorities. (b) By disposing of waste batteries and/or accumulators correctly, you will help save valuable resources and prevent any potential negative effects on human health and the environment.
Table of Contents IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS...........................2 IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS..........................3 Safety Information.......................................................4 Quick Start Guide.......................................................10 1 – Introduction..........................................................12 Features............................................................................................... 12 Items included with the product...............
Table of Contents Swapping the left-right channels of the built-in microphone pair.............................................................................. 42 Microphone position detection............................................. 43 Attaching the tilt foot ................................................................... 44 4 – Recording..............................................................45 Selecting file format, sampling frequency, and maximum file size................................
Table of Contents 5 – Working with Files and Folders (BROWSE screen)...................................................69 Screen navigation............................................................................ 69 Icons on the BROWSE screen....................................................... 70 File operations.................................................................................. 70 Folder operations............................................................................
Table of Contents Setting the tuner......................................................................... 97 Tuning a musical instrument.................................................. 97 11 – Connecting with a computer.............................98 Transferring files to a computer................................................. 99 Transferring files from a computer............................................ 99 Disconnecting from a computer................................................
Quick Start Guide Try recording and playback with TASCAM DR‑40. The unit contains a factory-installed SD card, and will by default produce 44.1 kHz, 16-bit WAV files. Higher-quality or longer files can be produced using other recording settings. See “Selecting file format, sampling frequency, and maximum file size” for details on page 45. 1 Install batteries in the battery compartment on the back of the unit. Fit them to the + and – marks shown in the compartment.
Quick Start Guide 3 Press the RECORD [0] button to switch to recording standby. The indicator will flash. RECORD button/indicator 7 Press the PLAY [7] button for playback. If you use a headphone or amplifier/speaker set, connect it to the /LINE OUT socket on the left side panel. For playback over the built-in speaker, enable it on the speaker settings screen (See “Using the built-in speaker” on page 40.
1 – Introduction Thank you very much for purchasing the TASCAM DR-40 Linear PCM Recorder. Please read this Owner’s Manual carefully in order to maximize your use of all the unit’s features. We hope that you will enjoy using this recorder for many years to come. After you have finished reading this manual, please keep it in a safe place for future reference. You can also download the Owner’s Manual from the TASCAM web site (http://tascam.com/).
1 – Introduction •• Automatic level control is available to increase or decrease the recording volume when the input sound is too low or too high, respectively. •• Limiter function automatically reduces the level suitably in particular portions where the input level is too high •• Low cut filter conveniently reduces low-frequency noise •• VSA function can change the playback speed in the range from 0.5 to 1.5 times (in 0.
1 – Introduction Items included with the product The DR-40 package contains the following items. Take care when opening the package not to damage the items. Keep the package materials for transportation in the future. Please contact the retailer where you purchased this unit if any of these items are missing or have been damaged during transportation. •• Main unit.................................................................................................1 •• SD memory card (in the unit)................
1 – Introduction Intellectual property rights •• TASCAM is a trademark of TEAC Corporation, registered in the U.S. and other countries. •• SDHC Logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC.
1 – Introduction This product is designed to help you record and reproduce sound works to which you own the copyright, or where you have obtained permission from the copyright holder or the rightful licensor. Unless you own the copyright, or have obtained the appropriate permission from the copyright holder or the rightful licensor, your unauthorized recording, reproduction or distribution thereof may result in severe criminal penalties under copyright laws and international copyright treaties.
1 – Introduction Precautions for placement and use •• The operating temperature should be between 0°C and 40°C (32°F and 104°F). •• Do not install in the following types of places. Doing so could degrade the sound quality and/or cause malfunctions.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts Top panel 1 Built-in stereo microphone Cardioid stereo electret condenser microphone. You can set the microphone angles to open (A-B), or close (X-Y). 2 DUAL indicator This lights orange when recording in dual recording mode. 3 4CH indicator This lights orange when recording in 4-channel recording mode. 4 OVER DUB indicator This lights orange when recording in overdubbing mode.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts Press when the 3/4 input level meter pull-up is displayed to switch to the 1/2 input level meter pull-up. Press and hold when recording or playing back in DUAL or 4CH mode to use the solo function, which switches the monitored sound from other sources to channels 1 and 2. Press and hold to solo channels 1 and 2. 7 (HOME) [8] button Press this button during playback to cause the playback to pause at the current position.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts On the setting screens, use this button to move the cursor left. On the BROWSE Screen, press this button to move up a level. q PB CONT button This button activates the Playback Control screen. When the Playback Control screen is displayed, press this button to return to the Home Screen. Press this button during recording standby to turn off the self-timer function or change the time period.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts i / button Press this button during playback or when playback is stopped to skip to the beginning of the next file. When the IN and OUT points are set between the current position and the end of the file, pressing this button skips to those points. Press and hold this button to search forward. On the setting screens, use this button to move the cursor right. Press this button while pressing and holding the ENTER/ MARK button to move to the next mark.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts Front panel •• Do not connect an unbalanced dynamic mic to an XLR connector when phantom power is being supplied. Doing so could damage that mic and this unit. d REMOTE jack (2.5 mm dia. TRS jack) Connect a TASCAM RC-3F footswitch or TASCAM RC-10 wired remote control (both sold separately) here to enable remote starting and stopping of playback and other functions.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts Left side panel f /LINE OUT jack Use this to connect with headphones or the line input jack of an amp or other equipment. g EXT IN switch Use this to set the input type of the EXT MIC/LINE IN jacks and whether phantom power is on or off. h HOLD switch Shift to the left end (in the direction of the arrow) to engage the hold function. All buttons are inoperative when hold is ON. j INPUT LEVEL (+/–) buttons Use these to adjust the input level.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts Bottom Panel The speaker will not produce sound in the following situations. •• When in recording standby •• When headphones are connected •• When recording •• When the speaker output setting is off •• When in overdubbing mode z Mounting thread for tripod or tilt foot (1/4-inch) Use this to attach a tripod or the included tilt foot to the recorder. CAUTION •• Tighten the unit securely to the tripod or microphone stand to prevent it from falling off.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts v Battery compartment Install batteries (3 AA) in this compartment to power the unit. (See “Using AA batteries” on page 34.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts 4 Elapsed time This shows the elapsed time (hours: minutes: seconds) of the current file. 5 Speaker output status Icon shown: Speaker output ON Icon not shown: Speaker output OFF 6 Power supply status When a battery is being used, a battery icon shows the amount of power remaining in bars ( , , ). The battery is almost dead and the power will soon turn off if the icon has no bars . When using the PS-P515U AC adaptor (sold separately) or USB bus power, appears.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts q Remaining time This shows the remaining time (hours: minutes: seconds) of the current file. w Playback speed setting status Indication Playback speed x1.0 x1.1 - x1.5 x0.5 - x0.9 Playback speed not controllable e Effect status Shows whether the effect function is ON or OFF. : Effect off : Effect on Two project names are shown when there are two files that have been recorded in 4-channel recording mode, dual recording mode or overdub separate mode.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts 2 Prerecording or Auto recording function status appears when the prerecording function is ON, and in recording standby. appears when the auto recording function is ON, and recording. 8 Input source This icon shows the input source. : Input source set to built-in mics : Input source set to EXT MIC/LINE IN jacks : Input source set to DUAL for dual recording Setting range is between –6 and –12 : When in OVERDUB SEPARATE mode, this shows that channels 1/2 are a playback file.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts 0 File name This shows the file name that is automatically assigned to a recording file. The project name is shown when multiple files have been recorded in 4-channel recording mode, dual recording mode or OVERDUB SEPARATE mode. q Remaining recording time The remaining recording time until the selected max file size is reached appears in hours: minutes: seconds.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts VSA shown on the left to indicate that the VSA (variable speed audition: enables the tempo to be changed without changing the pitch) function is enabled. 3 Available buttons The buttons available in the Playback Control screen are as follows. ENTER : Creates or deletes an IN or OUT point. MENU : Switch over between ON and OFF status of the loop playback function.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts The OTHERS submenu appears when OTHERS is selected in the MENU screen. The menu items contained are as follows.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts 4 Use the ENTER/MARK or / button to move the cursor to highlight the value of the setting. 5 Use the + or – button to change the setting. 6 Press the . button to set a different item in the same menu. This enables you to select a new item. Use the + or − button again to select an item to be set. 7 Repeat step 3 to 6 as necessary to set each item. 8 To open the MENU screen (or OTHERS submenu screen), press the MENU button.
2 – Names and Functions of Parts + button: Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted area) upward on the screen, or increase values. – button: Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted area) downward on the screen, or decrease values. QUICK button: This opens the Quick menu.
3 – Preparation Powering the unit DR-40 can operate on three AA batteries, or through an optional AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P515U) or USB cable provided with the unit (USB bus power). Alkaline or Ni-MH batteries can be used. Using AA batteries Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the unit. Fit three AA batteries to the + and – marks shown in the compartment, and close the battery compartment cover.
3 – Preparation Using an AC adaptor (sold separately) Connect the PS-P515U AC adaptor and the USB cable to the USB port of the unit as shown in the illustration. TASCAM PS-P515U (not supplied) AC outlet Using USB bus power Connect the unit to a PC using the attached USB cable as shown in the illustration. Computer Mini-B USB plug Mini-B USB plug USB CAUTION Never use any adaptor other than the designated PS‑P515U AC adaptor.
3 – Preparation NOTE •• Power is supplied from the USB port if the USB cable is connected to the unit that contains batteries (USB bus power prioritized). •• The AC adaptor also connects using the USB cable, so set it to BUS POWER in the same way. Start-up & shutdown CAUTION •• The unit goes in standby mode if shut down when the unit is operating on AC power supplied through the AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P515U, sold separately), or bus power supplied from a USB port of a PC.
3 – Preparation Shutting down Press and hold the (HOME) [8] button until LINEAR PCM RECORDER appears on the display. The power turns off after the unit completes its shutdown process. from the position (time) where the unit left off when shut down. NOTE The required data are stored in the SD card. The resume function does not work if the card is exchanged or formatted. Setting the date and time CAUTION Always use the (HOME) [8] button to shutdown the unit.
3 – Preparation CAUTION 3 Use the + or – button to select the DATE/TIME menu item, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. The date and time setting can only be maintained for a few minutes if the unit is not powered from batteries or through the AC adaptor TASCAM PS-P515U or the USB cable. When using batteries, replace them before they completely lose power. Inserting and removing SD cards The DATE/TIME screen is displayed. Inserting the SD card NOTE 4 Press the .
3 – Preparation CAUTION •• Do not remove the SD card from the unit when it is connected to a computer by USB. •• SD cards that meet SD or SDHC standards can be used with this unit. •• A list of SD cards that have been confirmed to work with this unit can be found on our website (http://tascam.com/). Card write protection Removing the card SD cards have protect switches that prevent writing new data to them. 1 Open the SD slot cover on the right side panel.
3 – Preparation Preparing an SD card for use In order to use an SD card in this unit, you must format it first. CAUTION •• When formatting a card, the unit should be operating on AC power supplied through the PS-P515U adaptor (sold separately), USB bus power supplied from a computer, or batteries with sufficient remaining power. •• Formatting a card erases all the data on it. 1 Confirm that an SD card is installed and turn the power ON.
3 – Preparation Connecting monitors and headphones To listen with headphones, connect them to the /LINE OUT jack. To listen with an external monitoring system (powered monitor speakers or an amplifier and speakers), connect it to the /LINE OUT jack. Using the built-in microphone This unit’s built-in microphones can be adjusted, allowing the angles of the microphones to be changed. You can choose clear stereo sound or wide stereo sound according to the recording source, situation, etc.
3 – Preparation NOTE Set the left-right channels of the built-in microphone to L-R. When you are using the built-in microphone and the setting is not L-R, appears on the Home Screen. (See “Swapping the left-right channels of the built-in microphone pair” on page 42.) NOTE Set the left-right channels of the built-in microphone to R-L. When you are using the built-in microphone and the setting is not R-L, appears on the Home Screen.
3 – Preparation If you are using the built-in microphone and this setting is not used, the current microphone setting icon appears as a warning on the Home Screen. 1 Press the RECORD [0] button to bring the unit in recording standby. The indicator will flash and the recording screen will appear. Microphone position detection The following pop-up message appears automatically whenever the left microphone is opened or closed and the left-right channels does not suit the angle of the microphone.
3 – Preparation Attaching the tilt foot When recording with the built-in mics, placing the recorder with the battery compartment cover side down will cause the built-in mic orientation to be low. You can attach the included tilt foot to the tripod threads in order to keep the mic orientation from being too low. Attach it as shown below. 44 TASCAM DR-40 When not using the tilt foot, it can be stored by inserting it between the two protrusions on the inside of the battery compartment cover.
4 – Recording In addition to using the built-in microphone, you can record using an external microphone or record the output signal from a mixer or other audio source. You can select among MP3 (44.1/48 kHz, 32–320 kbps) and WAV/BWF (44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit) audio recording formats. Marks added when recording to Broadcast Wave Format (BWF) can be used with software that supports this format, for example. This recorder has five recording modes.
4 – Recording •• Higher values provide better recording quality. •• WAV/BWF files are higher quality than MP3 files, but they take up more space, so MP3 formats allow for longer recordings. 10 Set the maximum file size with the + or − button to one of the following options. 64M, 128M, 256M, 512M, 1G, 2G (default) 5 Press the . button to show settings. 6 Use the + or – button to select SAMPLE, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button.
4 – Recording Point the mics at the sound source and place the unit in a stable location where there is little vibration. Other audio equipment or external sound source Microphones NOTE The setting of left-right channels is disabled if external microphones are connected to the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack. Recording an external device (LINE IN) Use stereo plug cables to connect to the output of an external audio device.
4 – Recording Setting the external input type When using an external input source, set the EXT IN switch on the left side panel according to the type of equipment connected. Using phantom power When the EXT IN switch on the left side panel is set to MIC+PHANTOM, phantom power (+24V or +48V) is turned on and sent to the connected mics. CAUTION LINE: Use this setting when connecting line output jacks of external devices to the analog inputs of this recorder.
4 – Recording •• Do not connect or disconnect the AC adaptor when using phantom power. Doing so could damage this device. Adjusting the input level Before starting recording, the input level should be adjusted to prevent the recorded sounds or signals from being distorted due to excessively large input signals or from being inaudible due to excessively low input signals compared to noise.
4 – Recording The PEAK indicator to the right of the display lights red when the input level is too high. A b mark is provided at –12 dB on the level meters. Set the input level so that the indicator bars move to and fro with this mark at about the center without causing the PEAK indicator to light red when the loudest sounds occur. NOTE (HOME) [8] button to exit recording standby.
4 – Recording PEAK REDUCTION: The input volume is reduced automatically to an appropriate level when excessively large signals come in. This allows input level setting to be performed easily. The input level can be raised manually if required. TIP When recording live performances, for example, test for peak reduction may be performed before actual recording. Select the peak reduction mode in recording standby, and maximize the input level.
4 – Recording MONO mode This is a mode for mono recording. STEREO mode (default) This is a mode for stereo recording of two independent left and right channels. DUAL mode This mode uses one input source (mono or stereo pair) to create two files with different input level settings (LEVEL CTRL setting screen). Either two mono or two stereo recording files are created. 4CH mode This mode uses both the built-in mics and the external inputs to record two pairs of inputs as two files.
4 – Recording 6 Use the + or − button to select the input source. REC MODE MONO SOURCE (options) INT MIC MONO (default) EXT IN 1 STEREO INT MIC ST (default) EXT IN 1/2 Explanation L/R signals of built-in mics are mixed and recorded in mono L external input is recorded in mono Built-in mics are recorded in stereo External inputs are recorded in stereo 7 Press the . button to select the other item. 8 If REC MODE is set to STEREO, you can also set MS mic decoding.
4 – Recording 3 Press the (HOME) [8] button to end recording and create the audio file. To pause recording, press the RECORD [0] button. Press the RECORD [0] button again to restart recording in the same file. If you press the (HOME) [8] button after pausing a recorded audio file up to the moment that you paused recording is created. NOTE To avoid recording of the noise from pressing the RECORD [0] button, the start of recording is delayed by 0.3 second (fixed) after the RECORD [0] button is pressed.
4 – Recording 2 Use the + and – buttons to select REC MODE, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. 3 Use the + and – buttons to set it to DUAL. 4 Press the . button to return to setting item selection. 5 Use the + and – buttons to select SOURCE, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. 6 Use the + and – buttons to set the input source.
4 – Recording 13 Press the . button to return to setting item selection. 14 If using MS mics, use the + and – buttons to select MS DECODE, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. Use the + and – buttons to set MS DECODE to ON (default value: OFF). 15 When setting is complete, press the (HOME) [8] button to return to the Home Screen. Starting dual recording Press the RECORD [0] button to start dual recording. During dual recording, the recording screen appears as follows.
4 – Recording Recording 4 channels You can use the built-in mics with connected external mics or equipment to record four independent channels as two stereo recording files (channels 1/2 and 3/4). Making 4-channel recording settings 1 Press the REC MODE button to open the REC MODE screen. 2 Use the + and – buttons to select REC MODE, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. 3 Use the + and – buttons to set it to 4CH. 4 Press the . button to return to setting item selection.
4 – Recording Starting 4-channel recording TASCAM_0002S12.WAV 1 Press the RECORD [0] button to begin recording standby. NOTE Before you start recording you can confirm the recording audio file format and sampling frequency at the top of the recording screen, as well as the input sources on the left and the recording project name beneath the meter bars. 2 Press the RECORD [0] button again to start recording. TASCAM_0002S34.
4 – Recording •• In OVERDUB mode, the recording format and sampling frequency used are the same as those of the playback file regardless of the settings. •• Overdubbing and dual recording cannot be used simultaneously. •• In OVERDUB mode, you cannot use the MS decoder. •• If the playback file is a mono file, the recording file will also be mono. •• If the playback files are two 96 kHz WAV/BWF or two MP3 format files, recording cannot be conducted in MIX mode.
4 – Recording listen to and select the best one from multiple recordings afterward. 7 Press the . button to return to setting item selection. 8 Use the + and – buttons to select SOURCE, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. 9 Use the + and – buttons to set the input source. SOURCE INT MIC (default value) EXT IN 1 EXT IN 1/2 Explanation Record using built-in mics. Record using external inputs. When creating a stereo file, the same sound is added to both L/R channels. Record using external inputs.
4 – Recording When recording starts, the indicator lights and the display shows the elapsed and remaining recording times. The following error message appears if the selected file cannot be played back. If you record again using the same playback file (File-A), the name of File-B above is changed to the file name below (File-C), and the new recording file is given the File-B file name. TASCAM_0004V34t1.WAV File-C: 3 To stop recording, press the (HOME) [8] button.
4 – Recording If you record again using the same playback file (File-A), the file name of the new recording will be as follows. File-F: TASCAM_0006S12.WAV In this mode, each time you record with the same playback file, the number in item 2 increases by one for the name of each new file.
4 – Recording 5 Press the . button to select the other item. 6 Use the + or – button to select LEVEL and press the ENTER/MARK button or / button. MARK: If the input signal level falls below the standard level for more than five seconds, which is set on LEVEL, the unit adds marks when the input signal level becomes higher than the standard level again. 11 Press the recording. 7 Use the + or – button to select the level that signal is judged to have been input when it exceeds this level.
4 – Recording Manual track increment during recording You can manually split a recording by creating a new file. Press the / button while recording. NOTE •• When new files are created, incremental numbers are added to the end of each project name. •• A new file cannot be created if the total number of files and folders would exceed 5000. •• Files shorter than two seconds cannot be created. If the sampling frequency is 96 kHz, files shorter than four seconds cannot be created.
4 – Recording Mark function Adding marks manually to a recording You can manually add marks to a recording where you want them. Adding marks automatically to a recording This function allows the unit to add marks automatically using AUTO REC. On the REC SETTING screen, set the AUTO REC section MODE item to MARK. Press the ENTER/MARK button while recording to add a mark. Mark number pull-up appears. See “Recording automatically (AUTO REC)” on page 62.
4 – Recording Setting the low cut filter The low cut filter can reduce noise such as offensive wind noise from air-conditioners and projectors. 1 Press the MENU button to open the MENU Screen. 2 Use the + or − button to select REC SETTING, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. REC SETTING screen appears. 3 Use the + or − button to select LOW CUT, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. 4 Use the + or − button to select the cut off frequency of the low cut filter for mic input.
4 – Recording 5 Press the (HOME) [8] button to return to the Home Screen. TIP By using this in combination with the AUTO REC function, you can record events without losing the beginnings of sounds. NOTE •• If the amount of time in record standby is less than two seconds, the sound for that amount of time is recorded. •• The prerecording function is disabled in OVERDUB mode. Self-timer function Like a camera, the unit has a self-timer to trigger the start of recording after a set period of time.
4 – Recording Recording duration The table below shows the maximum recording time on SD/SDHC cards of different capacities for different file formats for recording. File format (recording setting) 16 bit WAV/BWF (stereo) 24 bit MP3 (stereo/ mono) 32 kbps 64 kbps 96 kbps 128 kbps 192 kbps 256 kbps 320 kbps 44.1 kHz 48 kHz 96 kHz 44.1 kHz 48 kHz 96 kHz 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 44.
5 – Working with Files and Folders (BROWSE screen) On the BROWSE Screen, you can view the contents of the Music Folder, which contains the audio files on the SD card that you can use with the DR-40. On this screen, you can also play and erase selected audio files, create folders, add files to the playlist and so on. (See “Playlist” on page 77.
5 – Working with Files and Folders (BROWSE screen) setting, the playback area is set to FOLDER, and this folder becomes the new playback area. Icons on the BROWSE screen File operations Select the desired audio file on the BROWSE Screen and press the QUICK button to open the pop-up window that is shown below. The meanings of icons that appear on the BROWSE Screen are as follows. Root Music Folder (MUSIC) The MUSIC Folder is the highest (root) level folder in the hierarchy shown on the BROWSE Screen.
5 – Working with Files and Folders (BROWSE screen) FILE SWAP Files recorded during the following recording modes can be swapped. 4CH mode: A file recorded by the built-in mics (channels 1/2) can be swapped with a file recorded by external mics or equipment (channels 3/4). Example: TASCAM_0002S12.WAV q TASCAM_0002S34.WAV TASCAM_0002S34.WAV q TASCAM_0002S12.WAV OVERDUB SEPARATE mode: [1] The playback file and a newly recorded file can be swapped. Example: TASCAM_0004S12.WAV q TASCAM_0004S34.
5 – Working with Files and Folders (BROWSE screen) CAUTION This deletes all the files in the selected project. CANCEL The operation for the selected (highlighted) file is canceled, and the pop-up menu is closed. NOTE The pop-up menu can also be closed by pressing the QUICK button. SELECT Returns to the Home Screen and selects the first file in the folder. Regardless of the previous setting, the playback area is set to FOLDER, and this folder becomes the new playback area.
5 – Working with Files and Folders (BROWSE screen) Creating a new folder In the file list, NEW FOLDER appears at the bottom. Select (highlight) NEW FOLDER, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. A pop-up appears to confirm that you want to create a new folder. Press the ENTER/MARK button to create a new folder or press the (HOME) [8] button to cancel. Note that the unit supports only a two-level folder structure, and accordingly NEW FOLDER does not exist in the second-level folders.
6 – Playback On the Home Screen, you can use the . and / buttons to select the playback file. The files that you can select are determined by the playback area setting. Limiting the playback area makes file selection easier when you have numerous recorded and copied files on the SD card. On the PLAY SETTING Screen, you can select all files, the current folder or the playlist as the playback area. You can also use the BROWSE Screen to set a folder as the playback area.
6 – Playback FOLDER (default) Set the playback area as all the files in the currently selected folder. PLAYLIST Set the playback area as the files in the playlist. (See “Playlist” on page 77.) If there is no playlist defined, a No PLAYLIST pop-up appears. 5 Press the Screen. Selecting a folder for the playback area (1) Regardless of the current playback area, if you select a folder on the BROWSE Screen, the playback area changes to the selected folder. 1 Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
6 – Playback 5 Use the + or − button to select SELECT, and press the ENTER/MARK button. The display returns to the Home Screen. The first file in the folder is selected, and the unit is stopped. Regardless of the previous setting, the playback area is set to FOLDER, and this folder becomes the playback area. This folder becomes the current folder, and new recorded files will be saved in this folder.
6 – Playback Playlist You can make a list of files for playback (playlist). On the PLAY SETTING Screen if you select PLAYLIST for the AREA item, you can set playback to just the files in your playlist. Adding files to the playlist 1 Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen. 2 Use the + or − button to select BROWSE, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. BROWSE screen appears. NOTE For an explanation of how to use the BROWSE Screen, see “Screen navigation” on page 69.
6 – Playback 4 Use the + or − button to select PLAYLIST, and press the / button. PLAYLIST screen appears. 5 Use the + or − button to select the file you want to edit, and press the QUICK button. A pop-up window appears. 6 Use the + or − button to select an item, and press the ENTER/MARK button to cause the unit to work as follows. 78 TASCAM DR-40 ALL CLR A confirmation message appears to confirm that you want to remove all the files from the playlist.
6 – Playback NOTE In the above example, the 4th file has been moved to the 3rd file position. •• Press the ENTER/MARK button. The display returns to the PLAYLIST screen. CANCEL The operation for the selected file is canceled. •• Only files in the playback area that is currently set can be selected for playback. •• The track name, file number and other file information for the currently playing file appear on the display.
6 – Playback Pausing When the Home Screen is open and a file is playing back, press the (HOME) [8] button to pause playback at the current position. (PAUSE) Press the PLAY [7] button again to restart playback from that position. Stopping When the Home Screen is open and a file is playing back, press the (HOME) [8] button to pause playback, and press the (HOME) [8] button to return to the beginning of the file.
6 – Playback Playback Control Screen 1 REPEAT: The current file is played repeatedly. The icon appears on the Home Screen. ALL REPEAT: All files in the selected playback area are played back repeatedly. The icon appears on the Home Screen. Use the Playback Control screen to set the playback control functions. While the Home Screen is open when stopped or playing back, press the PB CONT button to open the Playback Control screen.
6 – Playback Repeated Playback of Selection (Loop Playback) With this function, you can continuously repeat (loop) the playback of a selection that you make. 1 While the Home Screen is open when stopped or playing back, press the PB CONT button to open the Playback Control screen. Press the PB CONT button to return to the Home Screen while maintaining the I/O and loop settings effective.
6 – Playback •• Accurate assignment of IN and OUT points is not always possible for variable bit rate (VBR) MP3 files. Changing the playback speed (VSA) The unit features the VSA (Variable Speed Audition) function that changes the playback speed without changing its pitch. NOTE VSA function cannot be used when a file that was recorded at 96 kHz sampling frequency or a file that was recorded in a mode other than MONO/STEREO or OVERDUB/MIX is selected.
6 – Playback 4 Use the + or − button to set the equalizer. TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS indicate that adjustment in the high, middle, or low frequency range is enabled, and + and – indicate that the sound level in that range is increased or decreased, respectively. Options: OFF (factory setting), TREBLE +, TREBLE -, MIDDLE +, MIDDLE -, BASS +, BASS 5 When finished, press the return to the Home Screen.
6 – Playback of file names. If file names are changed, this function will not work. OVERDUB INPUT MUTE function (during playback) SEPARATE MODE Press the 3/4 [SOLO] button to switch between the input sound and the 3/4 track playback sound. After overdubbing, you can use this to listen to the recorded file. MIX MODE Press the 1/2 [SOLO] button to mute the input sound. Solo function Press and hold the 1/2 [SOLO] button or 3/4 [SOLO] button to enable the solo function.
7 – Quick Operations Features of the QUICK button The QUICK button serves for the following purposes. •• While the Home Screen is open and when stopped or paused, opens the Quick menu screen for deletion, division, and level alignment (enhancing the perceived overall sound pressure) of the current playback file. During playback, the Quick menu screen appears only for level alignment.
7 – Quick Operations Quick menu screen MIX DOWN: To show the Quick menu screen, press the QUICK button while the Home Screen is open. The contents of this screen depend on the state of the unit at the time when the QUICK button is pressed. This function combines four channels (with a file each for channels 1/2 and channels 3/4) into one 2-channel L/R file. When using this, you can make effect level, volume level and stereo position settings freely on the MIXER screen. (See “Mixdown” on page 91.
7– Quick Operations Deleting the selected file (Quick Delete) The currently selected file can be deleted without using the BROWSE screen. In this window, you can choose from the following three level control options. PEAK REDUCTION: When the input sound is too large, the input level is decreased automatically to an appropriate level. AUTO LEVEL: When the input sound is too small or too large, the input level is increased or decreased, respectively, automatically to an appropriate level.
7 – Quick Operations Dividing the selected file (DIVIDE) A recorded file can be divided into two at a specified position. 1 Select a file to be divided using the . or / button or the BROWSE screen. 2 While the Home Screen is open when stopped, press the QUICK button to show the Quick menu screen. 5 Press the ENTER/MARK button to divide the file. Or press the (HOME) [8] button to return to the DIVIDE screen without dividing the file.
7 – Quick Operations •• •• •• •• TASCAM_0003aS34.wav (part before division point) TASCAM_0003bS12.wav (part after division point) TASCAM_0003bS34.wav (part after division point) MP3 files cannot be divided. If the SD card has insufficient open space, division might not be possible. Division is not possible if the file name would become more than 200 characters long. Division is not possible if a file that already exists has the same name as the name that would be given to a new file created by division.
7 – Quick Operations (example: a music file whose sound pressure has been already adjusted). 4 Press the ENTER/MARK button to start mixdown. Mixdown This function combines four channels (a file each for channels 1/2 and channels 3/4) into one 2-channel L/R file. Before mixing down, you can make effect level (SEND), stereo position (PAN, or BAL for mono) and volume level (LVL) settings freely on the MIXER screen (see “Mixer” on page 94). 1 Use the .
8 – Using the Effects The DR-40 has built-in effects that can be applied to the input signal during recording and practice. They can also be applied to the output signal during playback. The icon appears as light letters on a dark background. Effects ON indication Setting the effect 1 Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen. 2 Use the + or − button to select OTHERS, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button to open the OTHERS submenu.
8 – Using the Effects When MIX is selected, you can set the level (SEND) of each signal sent to the effect on the MIXER screen. (See “Mixer” on page 94.) 4 Use the + or – button to select the desired item and press the ENTER/MARK button or / button to access that item’s settings. 5 Use the + or – button to set the desired value. 6 Press the . button when you are done making the setting to return to item selection status. 7 Press the (HOME) [8] button to return to the Home Screen.
9 – Mixer This recorder has a mixer function that allows you to set the built-in effect, stereo balance and volume level for each channel. During mixdown (see “Mixdown” on page 91) and playback, you can make fine adjustments to the recorded sound by using this. Making mixer settings 1 From the Home Screen, press the MIXER button to open the MIXER screen. During 4-channel file playback (MS decoding of channels 3/4) 2 Use the .
9 – Mixer 5 Press the ENTER/MARK button to return to the previous screen where you can select the next setting that you want to adjust. NOTE •• The mixer can be used when recording, in recording standby, playing back, paused or stopped. •• Even when the MIXER screen is open, you can use the PLAY [7] button to start playback and the (HOME) [8] button to pause playback.
9 – Mixer When decoding the input, MS INPUT appears on the MIXER screen. When decoding playback, MS MONITOR appears on the MIXER screen. Item WIDE Setting range 0–100 Operation details Adjusts the width of the sound At “0”, mid is 100%. As the number increases, the amount of side signal increases. NOTE If MS DECODE is set to ON on the REC MODE screen, it cannot be selected on the MIXER screen (Using by Input appears). To use the MS decoder during playback, set MS DECODE to OFF on the REC MODE screen.
10 – Tuning a Musical Instrument (Tuner) TASCAM DR-40 has a built-in tuner. The unit receives a sound from a musical instrument and allows you to tune it accurately on the tuning meter shown in the display. Using the tuner Setting the tuner 1 Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen. 2 Use the + or − button to select OTHERS, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button to open the OTHERS submenu. 3 Use the + or − button to select TUNER, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. TUNER screen appears.
11 – Connecting with a computer By connecting this unit with a computer using the USB cable, you can transfer audio files on the SD card in the unit to a computer, as well as transfer audio files on the computer to the SD card in the unit. This unit can handle audio files of the following formats. MP3: 32 kbps - 320 kbps, 44.1 kHz/48 kHz WAV: 44.1 kHz/48 kHz/96 kHz, 16/24 bit Computer Mini-B USB plug USB computer that has a built-in SD card slot or by using a card reader.
11 – Connecting with a computer If an SD card is not properly inserted before making the USB connection, Can't Save Data appears on the screen. This unit appears on the computer screen as external volume named DR-40. Transferring files to a computer 1 Click the DR-40 drive on the computer screen to show the MUSIC and UTILITY folders. 2 Open the MUSIC folder and drag and drop the files that you want to transfer to the computer to destinations of your choice.
12 – Settings and Information Viewing File Information Use the INFORMATION Screen to view various types of information about your DR-40. 1 Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen. 2 Use the + or − button to select OTHERS, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button to open the OTHERS submenu. 3 Use the + or – button to select INFORMATION, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. The INFORMATION screen contains the following three pages. Use the + or − button to move through the pages.
12 – Settings and Information Card information page System information page The CARD page shows the status of the currently inserted SD card. The SYSTEM page shows information about the DR-40’s system settings and firmware version. TOTAL MUSIC Shows the number of playable files contained by the Music Folder. AUTO OFF Shows the automatic power OFF setting. TOTAL FOLDER Shows the total number of folders in the Music Folder. TOTAL SIZE Shows the total SD card capacity.
12 – Settings and Information 2 Use the + or − button to select OTHERS, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button to open the OTHERS submenu. 3 Use the + or – button to select SYSTEM, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button. SYSTEM screen appears. Setting the backlight Use BACKLIGHT to set the time until the backlight automatically turns OFF after the last operation when powered by the internal battery.
12 – Settings and Information Restoring the factory settings Use the INITIALIZE item to restore the various settings of this unit to their factory settings. 1 Use the + or − button to select INITIALIZE, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button to highlight Exec. 2 Press the ENTER/MARK button again to open a confirmation pop-up window. 3 Press the ENTER/MARK button to execute the quick formatting, or press the (HOME) [8] button to cancel formatting. 3 Press the ENTER/MARK button to initialize the unit.
12 – Settings and Information 3 Press the ENTER/MARK button to execute the full formatting, or press the (HOME) [8] button to cancel formatting. CAUTION When formatting a card, the unit should be operating on AC power supplied through the PS-P515U adapter (sold separately), USB bus power supplied from a computer, or batteries with sufficient remaining power. If the power fails during formatting, the formatting may not occur correctly.
12 – Settings and Information Setting the WORD item To set the WORD item, use the . and / buttons to move the cursor, and use the + or − button to select the character. In addition to the alphabet and numbers, the following characters can be used: ! # $ % &‘ ( ) + , - . ; = @ [ ] ^ _ ` { } ~ Resetting the number (COUNT) Select COUNT INIT, and press the ENTER/MARK button to execute it. The next file created after this will have the number “0001” after the characters set using the WORD item.
13 – Using the REMOTE jack This unit has a REMOTE jack to which you can connect a TASCAM RC-3F footswitch-type remote control or TASCAM RC-10 wired remote control (both sold separately) that can be used to operate the unit. 3 Use the + or − button to select (highlight) REMOTE menu item, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button to open the REMOTE screen. Footswitch (TASCAM RC-3F) 4 Use the + or − button to select (highlight) CONTROLLER menu item, and press the ENTER/MARK or / button.
13 – Using the REMOTE jack Using the footswitch Press a pedal on the footswitch to operate the unit. The function of each pedal corresponds to the assignment shown on the REMOTE screen. Wired remote control TASCAM RC-10 (sold separately) Mode functions The functions for each mode are as follows.
13 – Using the REMOTE jack 5 Use the + and – buttons to set CONTROLLER to RC-10 (default value: RC-3F). 6 When setting is complete, press the HOME button to return to the Home Screen. Using the wired remote control Press the function buttons (F1 and F2) on the wired remote control to use the function assigned on the REMOTE screen.
14 – Messages The following is a list of the popup messages that might appear on the DR-40 under certain conditions. Refer to this list if one of these popup messages appears and you want to check the meaning or determine a proper response.
14 – Messages Message Meaning and response File Not Found Make Sys File The system file is missing. This unit requires a system file for operation. When this message appears, press the ENTER/MARK button to automatically create a system file. The system file required to operate this unit is invalid. When this message appears, press the ENTER/MARK button to automatically create a system file. Something might be wrong with the card. Change the card.
14 – Messages Message Meaning and response Can't File Swap FILE SWAP cannot be used with projects that have only one file. When auto-recording is enabled, the Self Timer does not function. Set AUTO REC OFF on the REC SETTING screen.
15 – Troubleshooting If you are having trouble with the operation of this unit, please try the following before seeking repair. If these measures do not solve the problem, please contact the store where you bought the unit, an authorized distributor or a TASCAM Customer Support. 88 Power will not turn ON. •• Confirm that the batteries are not dead. •• Confirm that the batteries are installed with the correct +/– orientation.
15 – Troubleshooting 88 The input level is low. •• Confirm that the input level setting is not too low. •• Confirm that the output level of a connected external device is not too low. 88 The sound I am trying to record sounds distorted. •• Confirm that the input level setting for recording (INPUT LEVEL) is not too high. •• Do the built-in effects work? 88 The playback sounds unnatural. •• •• •• •• Confirm that the playback speed is not being adjusted. Confirm the setting of the playback equalizer.
16 – Specifications Ratings Recording media SD card (64 MB - 2 GB) SDHC card (4 GB - 32 GB) Recording/playback format BWF: 44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit WAV: 44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit MP3: 44.1/48 kHz, 32/64/96/128/192/256/320 kbps Number of channels 4 channels (stereo x 2) Input/output ratings Analog audio input/output ratings EXT MIC/LINE IN jacks (phantom power supported) Connector: XLR-3-31 (1: GND, 2: HOT, 3: COLD) 6.
16 – Specifications Control input/output ratings USB jack Connector: Mini-B type Format: USB 2.0 HIGH SPEED mass storage class REMOTE jack Connector: 2.5 mm TRS jack Audio performance Frequency response 20 - 20 kHz +1/–3 dB (EXT IN to LINE OUT, Fs 44.1 kHz, JEITA) 20 -22 kHz +1/–3 dB (EXT IN to LINE OUT, Fs 48 kHz, JEITA) 20 - 40 kHz +1/–3 dB (EXT IN to LINE OUT, Fs 96 kHz, JEITA) Computer compatibility Windows Pentium 300 MHz or faster 128 MB or more memory USB port (USB 2.
16 – Specifications Other specifications Format Power Three AA batteries (Alkaline or Ni-MH) USB bus power supplied from a computer AC adaptor (TASCAM PS-P515U, sold separately) Power consumption 1.7 W (maximum) Battery operation time (continuous operation) Alkaline type battery (EVOLTA) Format Recording, 2 ch WAV, 96 kHz, 24 bit Recording, 2 ch WAV , 44.1 kHz, 16 bit Recording, 2 ch MP3, 44.1 kHz, 128 kbps Recording, 4 ch WAV, 96 kHz, 24 bit Recording, 4 ch WAV, 44.1 kHz, 16 bit Recording, 4 ch MP3, 44.
16 – Specifications Playback, 2 ch WAV, 44.1 kHz, 16 bit Playback, 2 ch MP3, 44.1 kHz, 128 kbps Playback, 4 ch WAV, 96 kH, 24 bit Playback, 4 ch WAV, 44.1 kHz, 16 bit Playback, 4ch MP3, 44.1 kHz, 128 kbps Continuous operation time Note About 17.5 hours Headphones Dimensional drawings About 14.5 hours Headphones About 13 hours Headphones About 15 hours Headphones About 15 hours Headphones 155 mm Format Dimensions (W x H x D) 70 x 155 x 35 mm/2.756 x 6.102 x 1.
16 – Specifications 90 mm Dimension of the microphone opened •• Illustrations and other depictions may differ in part from the actual product. •• Specifications and external appearance may be changed without notification to improve the product.
Notes TASCAM DR-40 119
User registration DR-40 Customers in the USA, please visit the TASCAM website (http://tascam.com/) to register as a user online. TEAC CORPORATION Phone: +81-42-356-9143 1-47 Ochiai, Tama-shi, Tokyo 206-8530 Japan http://tascam.jp/ TEAC AMERICA, INC. Phone: +1-323-726-0303 7733 Telegraph Road, Montebello, California 90640 USA http://tascam.com/ TEAC CANADA LTD. Phone: +1905-890-8008 Facsimile: +1905-890-9888 5939 Wallace Street, Mississauga, Ontario L4Z 1Z8, Canada http://tascam.
