Tascam 208i series User manual

D01355520A

SERIES 102i

SERIES 208i

AUDIO INTERFACE

REFERENCE MANUAL

Before connecting this unit to a computer, you must download and install dedicated software on the computer.

2 TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i

Contents

1 - Introduction........................................................................ 3

Features.......................................................................................................3

Conventions used in this manual.......................................................3

Trademarks.................................................................................................3

2 - Names and Functions of Parts ........................................... 4

Front panel.................................................................................................4

Rear panel...................................................................................................5

3 - Installation .......................................................................... 6

System requirements .............................................................................6

Windows.................................................................................................6

macOS .....................................................................................................6

Apple iOS devices ...............................................................................6

Supported audio drivers...................................................................6

Installing the dedicated software......................................................7

Installing the Windows dedicated software..............................7

Installing the Mac dedicated software........................................8

Working with Gatekeeper ................................................................8

Uninstalling the dedicated software ................................................9

Uninstalling the Windows dedicated software ........................9

Uninstalling the Mac dedicated software ..................................9

4 - Preparation ....................................................................... 10

Connecting the power........................................................................ 10

Changing the outlet plug.............................................................. 10

Connecting other equipment.......................................................... 11

Connecting with a computer....................................................... 11

Connecting with iOS devices....................................................... 11

Audio connections........................................................................... 11

MIDI connections ............................................................................. 12

5 - Using the Settings Panel.................................................. 13

Opening the Settings Panel.............................................................. 13

Windows.............................................................................................. 13

Mac........................................................................................................ 13

Settings Panel overview..................................................................... 13

MIXER page ........................................................................................ 13

LINK button overview..................................................................... 19

INFORMATION page ........................................................................ 20

ROUTING page .................................................................................. 21

Monitor Control screen (SERIES 208i only).............................. 22

Using the Settings Panel View menu ........................................ 22

Initializing the Settings Panel ...................................................... 23

Resetting the reverb settings....................................................... 23

Using the SceneMemory menu....................................................... 24

Using the SceneMemory menu .................................................. 24

Loading Settings Panel settings ................................................. 25

Changing scene memory names................................................ 25

Resetting all scene memories...................................................... 26

Saving Settings Panel settings to the unit .............................. 26

Notification function ........................................................................... 27

Automatic software and firmware update function ................ 27

6 - Application Guide............................................................. 28

DAW software......................................................................................... 28

Bundled DAW software.................................................................. 28

Other DAW software ....................................................................... 28

Windows Media Player........................................................................ 28

macOS and iTunes................................................................................ 28

iOS .............................................................................................................. 28

7 - Standalone Mode ............................................................. 29

Overview.................................................................................................. 29

Settings in standalone mode ........................................................... 29

Various settings................................................................................. 29

8 - MIDI Implementation Chart............................................. 30

9 - Troubleshooting ............................................................... 31

10 - Specifications.................................................................. 33

General ..................................................................................................... 33

Inputs and outputs............................................................................... 33

Analog inputs .................................................................................... 33

Analog outputs................................................................................. 33

Digital audio input ratings............................................................ 33

Control input/output...................................................................... 33

Audio performance.............................................................................. 34

Computer system requirements ..................................................... 34

Windows.............................................................................................. 34

Mac........................................................................................................ 34

iOS device ........................................................................................... 34

Supported audio drivers................................................................ 34

General ..................................................................................................... 35

Dimensional drawings........................................................................ 36

Block diagrams ...................................................................................... 37

TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i 3

1 - Introduction

Features

oUltra-HDDA (High Definition Discrete Architecture) mic

preamps with -129 dBu EIN

oUltra-HDDA mic preamps (2 in SERIES 102i and 4 in SERIES 208i)

oMultiple XLR mic inputs (balanced) and standard jack inputs

(balanced/unbalanced)

oSupport for high-resolution recording formats up to 24-

bit/192 kHz

oSupports Windows and Mac

oUSB port (USB-B type, USB 2.0 standard)

oConnect with iOS devices including iPad

o+48V phantom power can be provided to each input channel

independently

oSupports direct guitar/bass input

oDirect monitoring function allows zero-latency monitoring

oInput level specifications boast a 57 dB range and support

dynamic mic input

oTough metal casing can endure even hard use

oAngled design provides excellent usability on a desktop

oTwo standard headphone output jacks

oSeparate volume controls for monitoring and headphone

outputs

oMIDI input and output enable connection with keyboards

and other MIDI devices

oLow latency monitoring through the DSP mixer

oDSP mixer with 4-band EQ and compression on each input

channel

oRouting function that allows inputs and outputs to be

assigned freely

oTen scene memories (can be renamed) for saving DSP mixer

settings

oTRS analog output jacks (2 on SERIES 102i and 8 on SERIES 208i)

oTOSLINK multichannel optical digital input connectors

(support S/MUX2 and S/MUX4)

oBNC WORD CLOCK input and output connectors with

terminal ON/OFF switch (SERIES 208i only)

oSupports USB Audio Class 2.0

oOperation confirmed with major DAW software, including

Cubase, SONAR, Pro Tools, Live, Studio One and GarageBand

oAC adapter (PS-P1220E) included with 3 alternate plugs

oDAW software and plug-in effects included

Note about computer operation

If you are unsure about anything related to the basic operation

of a computer when it is mentioned in an explanation in this

manual, please refer to the computer operation manual.

To use this unit with a computer, dedicated software must be

installed on the computer.

For details about software installation, see“Installing the

dedicated software” on page 7.

Conventions used in this manual

In this manual, we use the following conventions:

oSwitches, connectors and other physical parts of this unit are

written using a bold font like this: PHONES knob.

oInformation shown on a computer display is written like this:

“OK”.

oAs necessary, additional information is provided under TIP,

NOTE and CAUTION headings.

TIP

These are tips about how to use the unit.

NOTE

These provide additional explanations and describe special

cases.

ATTENTION

Failure to follow these instructions could result in damage to

equipment or lost data, for example.

VCAUTION

Failure to follow these instructions could result in injury.

Trademarks

oTASCAM is a registered trademark of TEAC Corporation.

oMicrosoft, Windows and Windows Vista are either registered

trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the

United States and/or other countries.

oApple, Mac, macOS, iPad, Lightning, App Store and iTunes are

trademarks of Apple Inc.

oIOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S.

and other countries and is used under license.

oASIO is a trademark of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH.

oBlackfin® and the Blackfin logo are registered trademarks of

Analog Devices, Inc.

oOther company names, product names and logos in this

document are the trademarks or registered trademarks of

their respective owners.

4 TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i

2 - Names and Functions of Parts

Front panel

SERIES 102i SERIES 208i

1 SIG indicators

These light green when signals (of at least -32 dBFS) are

input.

2 GAIN knobs

Use to adjust the input levels of the input jacks.

3 PEAK indicators

These light red when signals are about to distort (-1 dBFS or

higher).

Adjust these so that the PEAK indicators do not light red.

4 USB indicator

This indicator shows the status of the unit by lighting,

blinking and turning off.

Status Meaning

Lit Good USB connection

Blinking Bad USB connection (disconnected or error

occurred)

Unlit Operating in standalone mode

5 indicator

This indicator lights when the STANDBY (u) switch is set

to ON.

This indicator blinks if the clock source or OPTICAL input is

irregular (when the clock source is set to OPTICAL).

6 MONITOR BALANCE knob

Use this to adjust the balance between the signals from this

unit’s input jacks and the output signals from the computer.

The volume of signals input through this unit's input jacks

increase the more the MONITOR BALANCE knob is set

to the left (INPUT) and signals output from the computer

increase the more this is set to the right (COMPUTER).

This knob does not affect the recording level of input signals.

Input monitoring without lag is possible by monitoring the

signals from the input jacks (direct monitoring).

7 PHONES knob

Use to adjust the output levels of the PHONES and

jacks.

VCAUTION

Before connecting headphones, minimize the volume with

the PHONES knob. Failure to do so could result in a sudden

loud noise that could harm hearing, for example.

8 1-2 input jacks

These analog inputs are XLR/TRS combo jacks.

These support high impedance input, including direct guitar

input.

Use the input switches (9) to select balanced line (MIC/LINE)

or unbalanced (INST) input for the TRS jacks.

When directly connecting a guitar, bass or other instrument,

set the input switch (9) to INST.

9 Input switches

Set according to the input source of each input jack.

INST:Select when connecting a guitar, bass or other high-

impedance instrument. This makes it an unbalanced

input for high impedance.

MIC/LINE:Select when connecting a balanced-output mic or

line-level-output device.

+48V: This provides +48V phantom power to the 1-2 XLR

Jacks and 3-4 XLR jacks.

0 +48V indicators

These indicators light when their input switches (9) are set

to +48V.

q 3-4 input connectors (SERIES 208i only)

These analog inputs are XLR/TRS combo jacks.

These support high impedance input, including direct guitar

input.

Use the input switches (9) to select balanced line (MIC/LINE)

or unbalanced (INST) input for the TRS jacks.

When directly connecting a guitar, bass or other instrument,

set the input switch (9)to INST.

w MONITOR knob

Use to adjust the output level of the LINE OUT

(BALANCED) 1-2 (p) jacks on the back of the unit.

e PHONES / jacks

Use this standard stereo jack to connect stereo headphones.

These output the same signals as the LINE OUT

(BALANCED) 1-2 jacks (p) on the back of the unit.

Use an adapter to connect headphones with a mini plug.

NOTE

The same signals are output at the same level (volume) from

both PHONES and PHONES jacks.

TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i 5

2 - Names and Functions of Parts

Rear panel

SERIES 102i SERIES 208i

r Kensington Security Slot

t WORD IN/OUT connectors (SERIES 208i only)

These BNC connectors are for the input and output of word

clock signals.

Word clock signals of 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192 kHz can

be input and output.

ATTENTION

If a digital system has multiple word clock masters, serious

problems, including damage to equipment, could occur.

75Ω ON/OFF switch (SERIES 208i only)

When this switch is set to ON, the WORD IN connector

terminates to 75 Ω.

u STANDBY switch

Press to turn the unit on and to put it into standby.

i Cord holder

Hook the cord of the included PS-P1220E AC adapter here to

prevent accidental disconnection.

LINE OUT (BALANCED) 3-8 jacks (SERIES 208i only)

These standard TRS jacks are analog line outputs.

The nominal output level is +4 dBu.

(Tip: HOT, Ring: COLD, Sleeve: GND)

p LINE OUT (BALANCED) 1-2 jacks

These standard TRS jacks are analog line outputs.

The nominal output level is +4 dBu.

(Tip: HOT, Ring: COLD, Sleeve: GND)

a MIDI OUT connector

This 5-pin DIN is a standard MIDI output connector.

This outputs MIDI signals.

s MIDI IN connector

This 5-pin DIN is a standard MIDI input connector.

Use this to input MIDI signals.

d OPTICAL IN (S/MUX) connector(s)

These input multichannel digital audio in optical format.

44.1, 48, 88.2, 96, 176.4 and 192 kHz sampling frequencies are

supported.

88.2/96 kHz is supported by S/MUX2, and 176.4/192 kHz is

supported by S/MUX4.

f USB port

Use the included USB cable to connect the unit to a

computer.

(Supports USB 2.0.)

ATTENTION

iWhen connected to a USB 3.0 port, it will function in High

Speed mode equivalent to USB 2.0 (480 Mbps maximum).

iAfter waking a computer from suspend (sleep) mode, if the

unit does not operate properly, turn it off and turn it on again

or disconnect and reconnect the USB cable.

g DC IN 12V connector

Connect the included AC adapter (PS-P1220E) here.

6 TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i

3 - Installation

System requirements

Check the TEAC Global Site (http://teac-global.com/) for the

latest information about supported operating systems.

Windows

Supported operating systems

Windows 10 32-bit

Windows 10 64-bit

Windows 8.1 32-bit

Windows 8.1 64-bit

Windows 7 32-bit SP1 or later

Windows 7 64-bit SP1 or later

(Windows 8, Windows Vista and Windows XP are not

supported)

Computer hardware requirements

Windows computer with a USB port that supports at least

USB 2.0 or USB 3.0

CPU/processor speed

2 GHz or faster dual core processor (x86)

Memory

2 GB or more

ATTENTION

Operation of this unit was confirmed using standard

computers that meet the above requirements. This does not

guarantee operation with all computers that meet the above

requirements. Even computers that meet the same system

requirements might have processing capabilities that differ

according to their settings and other operating conditions.

NOTE

Since noise could occur depending on the computer system

used, we recommend selecting “High performance” for

“Plugged in” on the Power Options Control Panel page.

macOS

Supported operating systems

macOS Mojave (10.14 or later)

macOS High Sierra (10.13 or later)

macOS Sierra (10.12 or later)

Computer hardware requirements

Mac with a USB port that supports at least USB 2.0 or USB 3.0

CPU/processor speed

2 GHz or faster dual core processor

Memory

2 GB or more

Apple iOS devices

Supported operating systems

Apple device running iOS 10 or later

Supported audio drivers

Windows

USB Audio Class 2.0, ASIO 2.2, WDM (MME), MIDI

Mac

Core Audio, Core MIDI

Apple iOS devices

Core Audio for iPhone

TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i 7

3 - Installation

Installing the dedicated software

To use this unit, a dedicated software must be installed on a

computer.

The dedicated software might be updated at any time.

Download the latest software for the operating system you are

using from the TEAC Global Site (http://teac-global.com/).

oOn a Windows computer, this will install the Windows driver

and Settings Panel application.

oInstalling the dedicated software on a Mac will install only

the Mac Settings Panel application. The standard OS driver

will be used.

oWith an iOS device, the standard OS driver will be used, so

there is no need to install any.

ATTENTION

Before starting to install software, quit other applications.

Installing the Windows dedicated software

Follow the procedures below to install the Windows dedicated

software.

ATTENTION

iComplete installation of the Windows dedicated software on

the computer before connecting the unit to it with the USB

cable.

iIf you connected the unit to the computer using the USB

cable before installing the Windows dedicated software

and the “Found New Hardware Wizard” launched, close the

Wizard and disconnect the USB cable.

Windows dedicated software installation

procedures

1. Download the latest Windows dedicated software for the

operating system you are using from the TEAC Global Site

(http://teac-global.com/) and save it on the computer to

be used with the unit.

2. Uncompress the saved software (zip file) on the computer

desktop or another location.

3. Double-click the “TASCAM_SERIES_102i_208i_Installer_x.

xx.exe” (x.xx is the version number) file in the folder that

appears after uncompression to automatically launch the

installation software.

ATTENTION

If you open a zip file without decompressing it and

doubleclick the “TASCAM_SERIES_102i_208i_Installer_x.

xx.exe” file in the folder that opens, installation will not start.

Right-click the zip file and select “Extract All”, for example, to

decompress it and then try again.

4. Depending on the computer set up, a “Security Warning” or

“User Account Control”screens might appear. If this occurs,

click the “Yes” button.

5. Read the contents of the License Agreement, and select“I

accept the agreement” if you agree to the terms.

Then, click the “Next” button.

6. Next, click the “Install” button.

7. When the Windows security screen appears, click the

“Install” button to start installation.

8. The following screen appears when installation has

completed.

Click the “Finish” button.

The installer will quit and the Windows Settings Panel will

launch.

NOTE

The first time you connect the unit by USB to the computer

after installing the software, installation of the device driver

will be executed. Some time might be necessary before

the unit is recognized because Windows Update will be

automatically searched at this time. If the unit is still not

recognized after a while, open the software installation

screen from the notification area at the bottom right of the

computer display, and click “Skip obtaining driver software

from Windows Update” to stop the search.

8 TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i

3 - Installation

Installing the Mac dedicated software

NOTE

iInstall the Mac dedicated software on the computer before

connecting the unit to it with the USB cable.

iDepending on the Gatekeeper setting, a warning message

might appear during installation. Please see “Working with

Gatekeeper” on page 8 for information about Gatekeeper.

Mac dedicated software installation

procedures

1. Download the latest Mac dedicated software for the

operating system you are using from the TEAC Global Site

(http://teac-global.com/) and save it on the computer to

be used with the unit.

2. Double-click “TASCAM_SERIES_102i_208i_Installer_x.xx.dmg”,

which is the saved disk image file for the Mac dedicated

software, and double-click “SERIES_102i_208i_Installer.pkg”

inside the folder that opens.

NOTE

Depending on the computer’s settings, the downloaded zip

file might not have been uncompressed automatically. In this

case, uncompress the zip file first and then double-click the

disk image file.

3. When the installer starts, click the “Continue” button.

4. Next, select the desired language and click the “Continue”

button.

5. Click the “Read License”button and check the contents

of the Software License Agreement. If you agree to the

contents of the license, click “Agree”.

Then, click the “Next” button.

6. Next, click the “Install” button to start installation.

7. The following screen appears when installation has

completed.

Click the “Close” button.

Working with Gatekeeper

When using macOS, depending on the Gatekeeper security

function setting, a warning message might appear during

installation.

The solution depends on the warning message shown.

See the following explanations for details.

When the Gatekeeper setting is “Allow

applications downloaded from: the Mac App

Store”

The following security warning might be shown:

““SERIES_102i_208i_Installer.pkg” can’t be opened because

it was not downloaded from the Mac App Store.” In this case,

click the “OK” button to close the message.

In this case, click the OK button to close the message. Then,

control-click (or right-click) the file and click “Open”.

TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i 9

3 - Installation

When the ““SERIES_102i_208i_Installer.pkg” can’t be opened

because it was not downloaded from the Mac App Store. Are

you sure you want to open it?” security warning message

appears, click the “Open” button.

This warning message might also appear when the

Gatekeeper setting is something other than “Allow

applications downloaded from: the Mac App Store.”

The file still might not open and “SERIES_102i_208i_Installer.

pkg” can’t be opened because it was not downloaded from

the Mac App Store.”might appear again.

In this case, copy the file from the folder where it is to the

desktop or another folder, and then open it. Alternatively,

change the Gatekeeper settings to “Allow applications

downloaded from: the Mac App Store and identified

developers” and try opening it again.

When the Gatekeeper setting is not “Allow

applications downloaded from: the Mac App

Store”

““TASCAM_SERIES_102i_208i_Installer_x.xx.dmg.” is an

application downloaded from the Internet. Are you sure you

want to open it?” might appear as a security warning message.

In this case, click the “Open” button.

Changing the Gatekeeper setting

The Gatekeeper setting can be changed using the “Allow

applications downloaded from:”item on the “General” page

of the “Security & Privacy” pane of the System Preferences.

To change this, you must click the lock icon ( ) at the bottom

left and enter a password to unlock the settings.

This setting will lock again when you click the button or

type command-Q to close the System Preferences or when

you click “Show All”to close the open pane.

ATTENTION

Changing the Gatekeeper settings could result in security

risks.

If you changed the Gatekeeper setting to decrease security

(use one of the lower settings), set it back to the original

setting after updating the driver and/or firmware.

Uninstalling the dedicated software

NOTE

Normally, there is no need to uninstall the dedicated

software. Follow these procedures if a problem occurs or you

no longer intend to use the unit with the computer.

Uninstalling the Windows dedicated software

1. Open the “Uninstall or change a program” screen using the

procedures for the operating system being used (Windows

10/Windows 8.1/Windows 7).

2. Select “TASCAM SERIES 102i_208i version x.xx” from the list,

and double-click it.

3. Then, follow the instructions that appear on the screen.

Uninstalling the Mac dedicated software

Delete “SERIES 102i_208i” from the Application folder to

complete uninstallation.

10 TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i

4 - Preparation

Connecting the power

Use the included AC adapter (PS-P1220E) to connect a power

supply to the unit as shown below.

Power outlet

DC plug

PS-P1220E (included)

In order to prevent the cord from becoming disconnected

during use, wrap it around the cord holder when connecting it.

ATTENTION

Always use the AC adapter (PS-P1220E) that was shipped

with the unit. Using a different AC adapter could cause

malfunction, overheating, fire or other problems.

NOTE

The AC adapter for the unit includes 4 types of outlet plugs.

Attach the type of plug that matches the power outlet that

you are using. (see “Changing the outlet plug” on page 10)

Changing the outlet plug

NOTE

When purchased new, the included PS-P1220E AC adapter

for the unit has an outlet plug (A) already attached. There

should be no need to change the plug.

1. Move the knob (1) on the PS-P1220E AC adapter in the

direction of the arrow and remove the plug (A).

2. Select the plug that matches the AC outlet from the 3 other

types included (B, Cor D).

3. Move the knob (1) in the direction of the arrow again, and

attach the plug to the AC adapter.

This completes changing the outlet plug.

After changing the outlet plug, confirm that it is not loose or

crooked and that everything is normal before plugging it into an

outlet.

ATTENTION

Do not use the adapter if there is anything abnormal about

the plug after changing it. Use when the plug is abnormal

could cause fire or electric shock. Contact the retailer where

you purchased the unit or a TEAC service center (on the back

cover) to request repair.

TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i 11

4 - Preparation

Connecting other equipment

This is an example of SERIES 208i connections.

Precautions before making connections

oCarefully read the operation manuals of the devices to be

connected and then connect them correctly.

oBefore making connections, turn this unit and all equipment

to be connected off (standby).

oIf possible, install all connected devices so that they are

powered from the same AC power supply line. When using

a power strip or similar device, be sure to use one that has a

thick cable with high current capacity in order to minimize

voltage fluctuations in the AC power supply.

Mic

Guitar

Headphones

Bass

Mic preamp with S/MUX

(When using the word clock output of a TASCAM

SERIES 8p Dyna as the clock master for this unit)

ComputerDrum machinePowered speakers

Examples of connections to a SERIES 208i

Connecting with a computer

Use the included USB cable to connect the unit to a computer

USB port compatible with 2.0, 3.0 or higher USB specifications.

When the USB connection is working, the USB indicator on the

front of the unit lights.

ATTENTION

If you connect this unit to a computer via a USB hub, for

example, audio signal dropouts, clicking noises and other

interference could occur due to the influence of other USB

devices connected to that hub. For this reason, we strongly

recommend connecting this unit to a separate USB port.

Connecting USB keyboards and mice, however, to the same

bus should not be a problem.

Connecting with iOS devices

You will need a Lightning to USB Camera Adapter and the USB

cable included with this unit to connect an iOS device.

NOTE

iWhen connected, this unit will not provide power to the iOS

device.

iiOS does not support 176.4/192 kHz sampling frequencies.

Audio connections

Analog audio signals input into this device from mics, guitars,

keyboards and other audio equipment can be converted into

digital signals and transmitted to the computer via USB. In

addition, by connecting speakers (through an amplifier if not

powered) or headphones to this unit, you can monitor audio

signals that are input to this unit and output from the computer.

ATTENTION

Before connecting audio equipment, set the GAIN,

MONITOR and PHONES knobs to their lowest values.

Failure to do so could cause sudden loud noises from

monitoring equipment, and this could damage the

equipment or harm hearing.

Connecting microphones

Dynamic mics

Connect these to the 1-2 (or 3-4 on SERIES 208i) input

jacks on the front of the unit.

Condenser mics

When using a condenser mic that requires phantom

power, connect it to a 1-2 (or 3-4 on SERIES 208i) input

jack, and then set the input switch to +48V.

When the input switch is set to +48V, the +48V indicator

on the front of the unit lights.

VCAUTION

Set the MONITOR and PHONES knobs to their minimum

values before changing the input switch setting. Failure

to do so could cause sudden loud noises from monitoring

equipment, and this could damage equipment or harm

hearing.

ATTENTION

iInput switches can be set for each channel separately. Do not

set the switch to +48V when connecting a mic that does not

require phantom power.

iDo not connect or disconnect mics when the switch is set to

+48V. Doing so could cause a loud noise and might damage

this unit and connected equipment.

iSet the switch to +48V only when using a condenser

12 TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i

4 - Preparation

microphone that requires phantom power. Setting the

switch to +48V when a dynamic mic or other device that

does not require it is connected could damage this unit and

connected equipment.

iSupplying phantom power to some ribbon mics could break

them. If you are unsure, do not supply phantom power to a

ribbon mic.

Connecting guitars

When connecting a guitar or bass guitar directly to this unit, use

a 1-2 (or 3-4 on SERIES 208i) jack on the front of the unit and set

its input switch to INST.

Connecting electronic devices and other

audio equipment

When connecting an electronic instrument or other audio

equipment directly to this unit, use a 1-2 (or 3-4 on SERIES 208i)

jack on the front of the unit and set its input switch to MIC/

LINE.

Connecting analog record players

The output of an analog record player cannot be connected

directly to this unit. To connect an analog record player to this

unit, a phono amp and equalizer (or an audio amplifier that has

phono input jacks) must be connected between them.

Connecting monitor speakers

Connect monitor speakers (powered speakers or an amplifier

and speaker system) to the LINE OUT (MONITOR) 1-2 jacks

on the back of the unit.

Use the MONITOR knob on the front of the unit to adjust the

speaker volume.

Connecting headphones

Connect headphones to the PHONES and PHONES

jacks (standard stereo) on the front of the unit.

VCAUTION

Before connecting headphones, minimize the volume with

the PHONES knob. Failure to do so could result in a sudden

loud noise that could harm hearing, for example.

NOTE

The same signals are output at the same level (volume) from

both PHONES and PHONES jacks.

MIDI connections

Connect sound modules, keyboards, synthesizers, drum

machines and other MIDI devices to the unit in the following

manner.

oIf you want to monitor sound from a MIDI device, connect its

audio outputs to the 1-2 (or 3-4 on SERIES 208i) jacks on the

front of the unit or use an external mixer.

oYou can also use the MIDI IN and MIDI OUT connectors on the

back of the unit to send and receive MIDI timecode (MTC). By

doing this, you can use an application that supports MTC to

synchronize a multitrack recorder (MTR) and MIDI devices.

TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i 13

5 - Using the Settings Panel

Opening the Settings Panel

You can use the Settings Panel to make settings for the various

functions of this unit.

Open the Settings Panel in the following manner.

NOTE

The Settings Panel cannot be used with an iPad or other iOS

device.

Windows

oFrom the Start menu select “SERIES 102i_208i” under

“TASCAM”.

Mac

oOn the Launchpad, click SERIES 102i_208i.

oUsing the Finder, open the Applications folder and double-

click SERIES 102i_208i to open the Settings Panel.

oIn the Audio Devices window of the Audio MIDI Setup

application, right-click (control-click) “SERIES 102i” or “SERIES

208i”. Alternatively, click the button and click “Configure

device…”from the menu that appears to open the Settings

Panel.

Settings Panel overview

The Settings Panel has three pages.

Click a tab at the top of the Settings Panel to open that page.

oMIXER: Make built-in mixer and effect settings.

oINFORMATION: This shows the current status of the driver

and information about connections. You can

also make various settings.

oROUTING: Make output settings (and Monitor Control

settings for the SERIES 208i).

ATTENTION

When you open the Settings Panel, the state will be the

same as the last time closed. However, the setting values

on each page (MIXER, INFORMATION and ROUTING) will be

the same as when last closed, but will not have been saved

in a scene memory. To save settings in a scene memory, use

the Scene Memory menu in the menu bar. (see “Using the

SceneMemory menu”on page 24)

Moreover, to use settings in standalone mode, they must be

saved to the unit. To save settings to the unit, To save settings

to the unit, select “Save into the unit” under SceneMemory in

the menu bar. (see “Saving Settings Panel settings to the unit”

on page 26)

MIXER page

SERIES 102i Settings Panel MIXER page in Windows

SERIES 208i Settings Panel MIXER page in Windows

1EQUALIZER

This unit has a 4-band equalizer (with HIGH, HIGH MID, LOW

MID and LOW bands).

Use the equalizer to increase or decrease the levels of

specific frequency ranges. This can be used, for example,

to enhance the sound of individual instruments, to adjust

the balance of a wide frequency range and to cut specific

unwanted frequencies. (see“This can be selected when set to

BROADCAST, but it will always function as MONO.” on page

14)

Activate the Select button of a channel to make equalizer

settings for it.

Equalizer settings are shown here for the channel activated

using its Select button.

14 TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i

5 - Using the Settings Panel

2COMPRESSOR area

When the input volume exceeds the THRESHOLD level,

the input volume is compressed, reducing output volume

variation.

For example, by reducing the levels of sounds that are high

level, lower level sounds become relatively louder, creating

a more even volume level throughout and a more sustained

sound. (see “COMPRESSOR display area overview” on page

15)

Activate the Select button of a channel to make compressor

settings for it.

Compressor settings are shown here for the channel

activated using its Select button.

NOTE

iIf the input is a stereo signal (stereo-linked channel or

master), compression will start and be applied to both

channels when either the left or right input channel exceeds

the threshold level.

iWhen the compressor is off, the compressor curve will appear

but the meters will not be active.

3REVERB area

This effect adds reverberations to the original sound. Multiple

sounds are delayed at various times with damping over time

that is as natural as possible to produce reverberations like

those of a hall, live-music club or studio, for example. (see

“REVERB display area overview” on page 15)

4 Channel Mixer

Check and make settings for each channel. (see “Channel

Mixer details”on page 16)

NOTE

All channels are available when a SERIES 208i is connected.

When a SERIES 102i is connected, the INPUT 3, INPUT 4

and OPT B1 – B8 channels cannot be used and will appear

dimmed.

5 Output adjustment section

Make REVERB, AUX MASTER and STEREO MASTER settings

here. (see“Output adjustment section” on page 18)

This can be selected when set to

BROADCAST, but it will always function as

MONO.

Use this to increase or decrease the levels of specific frequency

ranges.

This can be used, for example, to enhance the sound of

individual instruments, to adjust the balance of a wide

frequency range and to cut specific unwanted frequencies.

The equalizer has a high-shelf HIGH band, a low-shelf LOW band

and peaking (bell-shaped) HIGH MID and LOW MID bands.

1EQ graph

This shows the frequency response with the current equalizer

settings.

The graph is shown even when the equalizer is off.

2GAIN (HIGH/HIGH MID/LOW MID/LOW) knobs

Set the amount the levels are increased or decreased for the

HIGH, HIGH MID, LOW MID and LOW bands.

Range: ±12 dB (default: 0 dB)

3FREQ (HIGH/HIGH MID/LOW MID/LOW) knobs

Set the cutoff frequencies of the HIGH, HIGH MID, LOW MID

and LOW bands.

Ranges

HIGH: 1.7 kHz - 18.0 kHz (default: 5 kHz)

HIGH MID: 32 Hz - 18.0 kHz (default: 1.2 kHz)

LOW MID: 32 Hz - 18.0 kHz (default: 300 Hz)

LOW: 32 Hz - 1.6 kHz (default: 80 Hz)

4Q (HIGH MID/LOW MID) knobs

Set the acutenesses of the peaks of the HIGH MID and LOW

MID bands.

The higher the value the more acute it becomes, making it

affect a narrower frequency band. The lower the value, the

less acute it becomes, making it affect a broader frequency

band.

Ranges

HIGH MID: 0.25 - 16.00 (default: 1.00)

LOW MID: 0.25 - 16.00 (default: 1.00)

5LCF button

Click the LCF button to enable a low cut filter that cuts noise

and other sounds at low frequencies. The LCF button lights

when enabled. (Default: off)

TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i 15

5 - Using the Settings Panel

COMPRESSOR display area overview

When the input volume exceeds the THRESHOLD level, the input

volume is compressed, reducing output volume variation.

For example, by reducing the levels of loud sounds, lower level

sounds become relatively louder, creating a more even volume

level throughout and a more sustained sound.

1Compressor status display

Three meters show the level of the signal input to the

compressor (INPUT), the level of the signal output from the

compressor (OUTPUT) and the gain reduction caused by the

compressor (GR).

2THRESHOLD knob

Sets the threshold level that will cause the compressor to

start.

Range: -32 dB - 0 dB (default: 0 dB)

3RATIO knob

Sets the compression ratio for the input volume.

Turning it right raises the compression ratio, increasing the

amount of compression.

Range: 1.0:1 - inf:1 (default: 1.0:1)

4GAIN knobs

Sets the gain of the output signal.

When the volume is compressed, the output level becomes

lower than the input level. Use the GAIN knob to increase the

output level so that it is close to the input level.

Range: 0 dB - 20 dB (default: 0 dB)

5ATTACK knob

Sets the amount of time until the compression reaches the

compression RATIO setting after the input volume exceeds

the threshold.

Range: 2 ms - 200 ms (default: 2 ms)

6RELEASE knob

Sets the amount of time until the compression stops and

the sound returns to its uncompressed level after the input

sound goes below the threshold level.

Range: 10 ms - 1000 ms (default: 10 ms)

NOTE

iIf the input is a stereo signal (stereo-linked channel or

master), compression will start and be applied to both

channels when either the left or right input channel exceeds

the threshold level.

iWhen the compressor is off, the compressor curve will appear

but the meters will not be active.

REVERB display area overview

This effect adds reverberations to the original sound. Multiple

sounds are delayed at various times with damping over time

that is as natural as possible to produce reverberations like

those of a hall, live-music club or studio, for example.

1Reverb status display

This shows the setting status of the PRE DELAY and REVERB

TIME knobs.

2Reverb type switch

Use to select the type of reverb.

Depending on the type, the density and level of the reverb

sound changes.

Options: HALL (default), ROOM, LIVE, STUDIO, PLATE

3PRE DELAY knob

Set the amount of delay until the first reverberations.

The larger the value, the larger the reverberations make the

room sound.

Range: 0 ms - 250 ms (default: 90 ms)

4REVERB TIME knob

Set the amount of time that the reverberations continue.

The larger the value, the longer they continue.

Range: 0.1 s - 10 s (default: 2.7 s)

5DIFFUSION knob

Sets the breadth of the reverberations.

Range: 0 - 100 (default: 20)

NOTE

In the menu bar, open the View menu and click Initialize

Reverb to reset the settings shown in the REVERB section to

their default values. (see“Resetting the reverb settings”on

page 23)

16 TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i

5 - Using the Settings Panel

Channel Mixer details

Settings Panel MIXER page channels 1–2

1Select button

The equalizer and compressor settings for the selected

channel are shown in the EQUALIZER and COMPRESSOR

sections.

Off (default): Select button unlit

ON: Select button lit

To select a different channel, click that channel's button. The

previously selected channel button will become unlit, and

the newly selected channel button will light.

2 φbutton

Use these to change the phases of the signals on each

channel.

If the phase becomes reversed due to the wiring of a mic or

other cause, turn the φbutton on (lit) to reverse the phase of

the channel. (Default: off)

3THRU button

Click a THRU button to light it and send the input signal

for that channel directly to the computer without passing

through the input signal mixer.

Since the signal does not pass through the mixer, phase,

equalizer and compressor settings will have no effect.

4EQ button

Use these to turn the equalizer on/off for each channel.

Click the EQ button to activate the equalizer. The EQ button

will light and the equalizer settings shown in the EQUALIZER

section will be applied.

5COMP button

Use these to turn the compressor on/off for each channel.

Click the COMP button to activate the compressor. The COMP

button will light and the compressor settings shown in the

COMPRESSOR section will be applied.

6 PRE/POST buttons

Set whether the signal sent to the AUX bus is pre-fader or

post-fader.

The selected button lights.

Status Meaning

PRE button unlit

POST button unlit

(default)

The signal is not sent to the AUX

bus.

PRE button lit

The signal is sent to the AUX bus

before adjustment by the channel

fader.

The AUX level will not be affected by

the channel fader.

POST button lit

The signal is sent to the AUX bus

after adjustment by the channel

fader.

The AUX level will be affected by the

channel fader.

7AUX 1-4 knobs and indicators

Use to adjust the levels of the signals sent to the AUX bus

(AUX levels).

Range: -inf. to 6 dB (default: -inf.)

Drag an AUX knob up or down to adjust that AUX level.

While dragging, the value being adjusted is shown below

and to the right of the AUX knob.

The indicator lights blue at levels of 0 dB or less and yellow at

levels from 0 dB to 6 dB.

8SOLO button

When SOLO buttons are turned on, other channels will

automatically be muted (in place solo monitoring).

The MUTE buttons of muted channels will light. (Default: off )

Multiple channels can be soloed at the same time.

NOTE

iWhen all the SOLO buttons are off, clicking the SOLO button

of one channel will solo it, automatically muting the other

channels and lighting their MUTE buttons.

iIf every SOLO button is turned off, channels that had been

automatically muted will become unmuted. Channels that

had been individually muted before any channel was soloed

will remain muted.

iThe STEREO MASTER channel MUTE button will not turn on

automatically because of soloing.

9MUTE button

Click a MUTE button to mute that channel. The button lights

when the channel is muted. (Default: off )

NOTE

In addition to turning the MUTE button on and off, channels

will be automatically muted and unmuted when SOLO

buttons are used.

TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i 17

5 - Using the Settings Panel

0 Pan slider

Use to adjust the stereo positions of the signals input to each

channel.

Drag the pan slider left or right to adjust the stereo position.

While dragging, the adjusted position is shown above the

channel level meter (w).

The value is L20 when set all the way to the left, R20 when set

all the way to the right and Cwhen centered.

Setting range: L20 - L1, C(default), R1 - R20

The pan slider appears blue when centered (C) and yellow at

all other positions.

NOTE

iWhen the pan slider is centered (C), signals reduced by 3 dB

are sent to both the stereo left and right buses.

iDouble-click the pan slider to return it to the center (C)

position.

iWhen the pan slider is at the left end (L20), the signal is sent

only to the left bus of the stereo bus. It is not sent to the right

bus.

iWhen the pan slider is at the right end (R20), the signal is

sent only to the right bus of the stereo bus. It is not sent to

the left bus.

qChannel fader

Use these to adjust the levels of the signals sent from each

channel to the stereo bus.

Range: -infinity to 6.0 dB (default: 0.0 dB)

Drag a channel fader up or down to adjust the channel level.

The gain value of the channel fader is shown in the fader

level display area (e).

NOTE

Shift-click the fader to set it to 0 dB.

w Channel level meter

These meter show the signal levels of each channel.

The channel level meter appear green at levels of -12 dB or

less, yellow at levels from -12 dB to -6 dB and red at levels

above -6 dB.

Each level meter has an overload indicator at its top.

NOTE

The channel meter show the level before being adjusted by

the fader. Level meter are not affected by fader adjustment or

even their channel being muted.

eFader level display area

These show the level of the channel fader above them as

decibel value.

rLINK button

Click a LINK button to unite odd and even channel as a single

stereo channel. When linked, this button lights for those

channel. (Default: off )

When a pair is stereo linked, the buttons and knobs of the

channels are combined. The channel level meters are also

shown is a stereo pair.

See “LINK button overview” on page 19 for details.

tChannel note

You can input up to six alphanumeric characters.

Character input

i Click one of these areas. The cursor will blink when

ready for input. When the unit is ready, use a computer

keyboard to input characters. When done inputting, press

the computer Enter key to confirm.

i When done inputting characters, you must press the

computer Enter key to confirm. If you do not press the

Enter key before switching from the MIXER page to a

different page, the input characters will continue to be

shown but will not be saved.

18 TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i

5 - Using the Settings Panel

Output adjustment section

1REVERB button

Click the REVERB button to apply reverb.

(Default: on)

When the reverb is on, the REVERB button lights.

NOTE

The reverb cannot be turned on if the sampling frequency is

176.4/192 kHz.

2RETURN knob and indicator

Use to adjust the return level, which is the signal from the

reverb effect returned to the stereo bus.

Range: -inf. to 6 dB (default: -inf.)

Drag the RETURN knob up or down to adjust the return level.

While dragging, the value being adjusted is shown below

and to the right of the RETURN knob.

The indicator lights blue at levels of 0 dB or less and yellow at

levels from 0 dB to 6 dB.

3AUX MASTER 1/REVERB knob and indicator

Use this to adjust the send master level of the signal sent to

the AUX 1 bus and reverb effect.

Range: -inf. to 6 dB (default: 0 dB)

Drag the 1/REVERB knob up or down to adjust the send level.

While dragging, the value being adjusted is shown below

and to the right of the 1/REVERB knob.

The indicator lights blue at levels of 0 dB or less and yellow at

levels from 0 dB to 6 dB.

4AUX MASTER 2-4 knobs and indicators

Use these to adjust the send master levels of the signals sent

to the AUX 2-4 buses.

Range: -inf. to 6 dB (default: 0 dB)

Drag the 2-4knobs up or down to adjust the send levels.

While dragging, the value being adjusted is shown below

and to the right of the 2-4knob.

The indicator lights blue at levels of 0 dB or less and yellow at

levels from 0 dB to 6 dB.

5MUTE button

This mutes the STEREO MASTER output. (Default: off )

6STEREO MASTER fader

Use this to adjust the level of the output signal.

Range: -infinity to 6.0 dB (default: 0.0 dB)

Drag the STEREO MASTER fader up or down to adjust the

master level.

The value being adjusted is shown in the STEREO MASTER

fader level display area (8).

7STEREO MASTER level meters

The master levels are shown by this stereo level meter.

The STEREO MASTER level meters appear green at levels of

-12 dB or less, yellow at levels from -12 dB to -6 dB and red at

levels above -6 dB.

Each level meter has an overload indicator at its top.

NOTE

The STEREO MASTER level meter shows the levels after

being adjusted by the fader (post fader). The level meters are

affected by fader adjustments and channels being muted.

8STEREO MASTER fader level display area

This shows the level of the STEREO MASTER fader as a decibel

value.

TASCAM SERIES 102i / SERIES 208i 19

5 - Using the Settings Panel

LINK button overview

When a LINK button on the MIXER page is turned on/off, the settings differ according to whether the stereo link is on or off.

The details of the settings are as follows.

When a LINK button is turned on

Button/knob Setting status

Select buttons

On if a Select button was on (lit)

for either channel.

Off if the Select buttons were off

(unlit) for both channels.

φ(phase) buttons

Settings are not combined.

Both channels retain their

previous settings.

THRU buttons The setting of the odd channel is

used for both.

EQ buttons The setting of the odd channel is

used for both.

COMP buttons The setting of the odd channel is

used for both.

PRE/POST buttons The setting of the odd channel is

used for both.

AUX knobs (1–4)The setting of the odd channel is

used for both.

SOLO buttons The setting of the odd channel is

used for both.

MUTE buttons The setting of the odd channel is

used for both.

Pan sliders

Settings are not combined.

Odd and even channels can each

be set independently.

Channel faders The setting of the odd channel is

used for both.

Channel level meters The channel level meters are

shown as a stereo pair.

Fader level display areas The setting of the odd channel is

shown.

NOTE

When a LINK button is on (lit), the select button names

change to a name used when the stereo link is active.

Examples

When the INPUT 1 and INPUT 2 buttons are linked, the

name of the button changes to INPUT 1-2.

When a LINK button is turned off

Button/knob Setting status

Select buttons

When on (lit), the odd channel

will be turned on and the even

channel will be turned off.

When off (unlit), both channels

will be turned off.

φ(phase) buttons

Settings do not change. Both

channels retain their previous

settings.

THRU buttons Both channels use the settings