Tascam CA-XLR2d User manual

D01399820B
CA-XLR2d
Microphone Adapter
REFERENCE MANUAL

Contents
1 – Introduction ....................................................................... 3
Features .....................................................................................................3
Conventions used in this manual.....................................................3
Trademarks ...............................................................................................3
2 - Names and Functions of Parts ........................................... 4
CA-XLR2d main unit..............................................................................4
Accessory shoe attachment adapter parts ...................................7
3 – Preparation......................................................................... 8
Preparing the unit..................................................................................8
Changing accessory shoe attachment adapters ..................8
Preparing the power supply.........................................................8
Connecting with cameras ................................................................ 10
Connecting microphones ................................................................ 12
Making other connections......................................................... 14
4 – Recording ......................................................................... 15
Turning the power on........................................................................ 15
CA-XLR2d-C/CA-XLR2d-F............................................................ 15
CA-XLR2d-AN.................................................................................. 15
Adjusting audio settings .................................................................. 16
Checking audio being recorded.............................................. 16
5 – Troubleshooting............................................................... 17
6 – Specications/rated values............................................. 18
Ratings .................................................................................................... 18
Analog audio input ratings.............................................................. 18
Analog audio output.......................................................................... 18
Audio performance ............................................................................ 18
Other........................................................................................................ 18
Dimensional drawings....................................................................... 19
7 – Important Notice Regarding Software........................... 20
2TASCAM CA-XLR2d

1 – Introduction
Thank you very much for purchasing a TASCAM CA-XLR2d
Microphone Adapter.
Before using this unit, read this Reference Manual carefully so
that you will be able to use it correctly and enjoy working with
it for many years. After you have nished reading this manual,
please keep it in a safe place for future reference.
You can download the Reference Manual from the TASCAM
website.
CA-XLR2d
https://tascam.jp/int/product/ca-xlr2d/docs
Features
oMic adapter to add XLR inputs to mirrorless cameras
o2 XLR/TRS input jacks enable optimal mic selection for
dierent lming situations
oBuilt-in high-performance AD converters enable direct
transmission of digital audio to cameras through compatible
accessory shoes without degradation (using compatible
models from Canon and Fujilm)
oPower can be provided by cameras through compatible
accessory shoes (using compatible models from Canon and
Fujilm)
oBuilt-in high-performance HDDA mic preamps on the XLR/
TRS inputs enable high audio quality, low noise and a wide
dynamic range (mic/line level switchable, +48V phantom
power supported)
o3.5mm stereo mini jack supports plug-in power, enabling
connection of gun mics, lapel mics and wireless mics, for
example
oConnection to numerous mics with analog inputs enabled
by included battery box, cold shoe mount adapter and mic
holder with shock mount structure to control vibration noise
oCold shoe on top enables attachment of mics, wireless
receivers and other devices that support shoe connection
oAnalog output jacks support two modes
iCamera mode ( ) enables audio transfer to camera mic
inputs
iHeadphone mode ( ) enables direct monitoring using
headphones
oThe same unit can be used with compatible cameras from
both Canon and Fujilm by using optional CA-AK1-C and CA-
AK1-F accessories shoe connection adapters (sold separately)
oAttenuation function (0 dB/20 dB/46 dB)
oLow cut lter function (OFF/80 Hz/220 Hz)
oLimiter function
oAuto level function adjusts recording levels automatically
oIndicators that show level overloads for each channel
o1+2 LINK function links VOLUME, LEVEL and LIMITER
operation of INPUT 1 and INPUT 2 when using a stereo mic,
for example
oCable holder useful for managing cables around the camera
Conventions used in this manual
The following conventions are used in this manual.
oThe camera, recorder or other equipment to which this unit is
connected is called the “connected device”.
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.
oOther company names, product names and logos in this
document are the trademarks or registered trademarks of
their respective owners.
TASCAM CA-XLR2d 3

2 - Names and Functions of Parts
CA-XLR2d main unit
Misoperation prevention cover
1POWER SUPPLY indicators
These show the power source and remaining battery charge.
The indicator will blink rapidly when the remaining battery
charge becomes low. Change the battery/batteries in this
case.
Icon Lighting state Meaning
Lit Power supplied by the camera
is being used for operation.
Lit AA batteries are being used for
operation.
Blinking slowly The remaining battery charge
is low.
Blinking rapidly Power will soon turn o.
2SELECT switch
Use this to select the input device for the camera recording
channel.
IN 3 The stereo input from the INPUT 3 jack will be
output to the L/R channels.
IN 1+2
The input from the INPUT 1 jack will be output
to the L channel and the input from the INPUT 2
jack will be output to the R channel.
IN 1 The input from the INPUT 1 jack will be output
to both L and R channels.
NOTE
When “IN 1”is selected, if the 1+2 LINK switch (8) is not set
to “ON”, the INPUT 2 setting will be used for the R channel.
3OL (overload) indicators
These light when input signal levels are high enough that
they could distort.
To capture high-quality audio, set the ATT (attenuation)
switch (5) and adjust the input volumes (9/w) so that
these do not light.
When using a digital connection, check the camera level
meters.
4INPUT 1 switch
Set this for the equipment connected to INPUT 1.
LINE Use this setting when connecting a line output
jack of a mixer or other external device.
MIC
Use this setting when connecting a dynamic
mic or other equipment that does not require
phantom power.
+48V Use this setting when connecting a condenser
mic that requires phantom power.
ATTENTION
iDo not set the INPUT switch to +48V when connecting mics
that do not require phantom power.
iDo not connect or disconnect mics when this is set to +48V.
Doing so could cause a loud noise and might damage this
unit and connected equipment.
NOTE
iWhen the SELECT switch (2) is set to “IN 3”, the INPUT 1
switch has no eect.
iWhen set to “LINE” or “MIC”, phantom power is not supplied.
5ATT (attenuator) switches
These change the input sensitivity to prevent audio
distortion during high-volume input.
0dB Use this setting with mics that have low input
sensitivity, for example.
20dB Use this setting with mics that have high input
sensitivity, for example.
46dB
Use this setting with mics that have extremely
high input sensitivity, for example, if distortion
occurs at the 20dB setting.
If OL (overload) indicators (3) light even when input
volumes are lowered, set these to higher values.
If OL (overload) indicators (3) continue to light, reduce the
volumes of sound sources or move the mics farther away
from them.
NOTE
The setting of this switch will have no eect if the INPUT 1
switch (4) or INPUT 2 switch (7) setting is“LINE”.
4TASCAM CA-XLR2d

2 - Names and Functions of Parts
6LOW CUT switches
Use these to set the low-cut lter function, which can reduce
noise from air-conditioning equipment and projectors, as
well as bothersome wind noise, for example.
220Hz Use this setting if, for example, environmental
noise is not reduced much when set to 80 Hz.
80Hz Use this setting to cut the sound of air-
conditioning equipment, for example.
OFF This turns the low-cut lter function o.
7INPUT 2 switch
Set this for the equipment connected to INPUT 2.
LINE Use this setting when connecting a line output
jack of a mixer or other external device.
MIC
Use this setting when connecting a dynamic
mic or other equipment that does not require
phantom power.
+48V Use this setting when connecting a condenser
mic that requires phantom power.
ATTENTION
iDo not set the INPUT switch to +48V when connecting mics
that do not require phantom power.
iDo not connect or disconnect mics when this is set to +48V.
Doing so could cause a loud noise and might damage this
unit and connected equipment.
NOTE
When set to “LINE” or “MIC”, phantom power is not supplied.
81+2 LINK switch
This function links the settings of INPUT 2 to the settings of
INPUT 1.
Use this when recording a stereo mic, for example.
ON
This links three settings for INPUT 2 to INPUT
1, enabling their input volume (9/w), LEVEL
switch (0) and LIMITER switch (q) settings to
be controlled together.
This setting takes eect when the SELECT switch
(2) is set to “IN 1”or “IN 1+2”.
OFF This setting allows INPUT 1 and INPUT 2 to be
operated separately.
9INPUT 1 / INPUT 3 volume
Use this to manually adjust the input level when the LEVEL
switch (0) is set to“MAN”.
Minimizing the volume will mute the input.
The input adjustment that is possible depends on the
following switch settings.
SELECT
switch (2)
1+2 LINK
switch (8)Input volume operation
IN 3 — Use to adjust the stereo input
level of the INPUT 3 jack.
IN 1+2
ON
Use to adjust the input levels
of the INPUT 1/2 jacks (L and R
channels).
OFF Use to adjust the input level of
the INPUT 1 jack (L channel).
IN 1
ON
Use to adjust the input level
of the INPUT 1 jack (L and R
channels).
OFF Use to adjust the input level of
the INPUT 1 jack (L channel).
NOTE
iIf the LEVEL switch (0) setting is “AUTO”, adjustment of the
input volume will have no eect.
iDistortion might occur when signals that are very loud are
input even if the LIMITER switch (q) is set to“ON”. In such
a case, lower the recording level or increase the distance
between the mic and the sound source.
0LEVEL switches
These switch the input level adjustment mode.
AUTO Use this setting to have the input level adjusted
automatically.
MAN
Use this setting to enable use of the input
volume control (9/w) for manual input level
adjustment.
NOTE
When the 1+2 LINK switch (8) is set to“ON”, the INPUT 2
switch settings have no eect, and the settings of the INPUT
1 switches are applied instead.
qLIMITER switches
These turn the limiter function on and o.
ON Using the limiter can suppress distortion caused
by sudden excessive sound input.
OFF This turns the limiter function o.
i If the SELECT switch (2) setting is “IN 1”and the 1+2 LINK
switch (8) setting is “OFF”, the limiter function will aect
the INPUT 1 jack (L channel).
i If the SELECT switch (2) setting is “IN 1”and the 1+2 LINK
switch (8) setting is “ON”, the limiter function will aect
the INPUT 1 jack (both L and R channels).
NOTE
iWhen the 1+2 LINK switch (8) is set to“ON”, the INPUT 2
switch settings have no eect, and the settings of the INPUT
1 switches are applied instead.
iDistortion could occur when the input sound is excessively
loud even if the limiter function is on. In such a case, lower
the recording level or increase the distance between the mic
and the sound source.
TASCAM CA-XLR2d 5

2 - Names and Functions of Parts
wINPUT 2 volume
Use this to manually adjust the input level when the LEVEL
switch (0) is set to“MAN”.
Minimizing the volume will mute the input.
The input adjustment that is possible depends on the
following switch settings.
SELECT
switch (2)
1+2 LINK
switch (8)Input volume operation
IN 3 — Adjustment of the input volume
will have no eect.
IN 1+2
ON Adjustment of the input volume
will have no eect.
OFF Use to adjust the input level of
the INPUT 2 jack.
IN 1
ON Adjustment of the input volume
will have no eect.
OFF Use to adjust the input level of
the INPUT 1 jack (R channel).
NOTE
iIf the LEVEL switch (0) setting is “AUTO”, adjustment of the
input volume will have no eect.
iDistortion might occur when signals that are very loud are
input even if the LIMITER switch (q) is set to“ON”. In such
a case, lower the recording level or increase the distance
between the mic and the sound source.
eAccessory shoe (cold shoe)
This accessory shoe is a cold shoe.
ATTENTION
iDo not connect accessory shoe devices that have connectors
or other parts that stick out. Doing so could damage this unit
and the connected device.
iDo not attach heavy equipment. Doing so could cause
damage or their falling o due to their weight.
rOUTPUT switch
Set the output setting according to the equipment
connected to the OUTPUT jack (t) and the application.
Use this setting when connecting to a camera mic
or line input jack.
Operation of the VOLUME +/− buttons (y) will
have no eect.
Use this setting when connecting headphones.
Operation of the VOLUME +/− buttons (y) will
adjust the headphone output level.
ATTENTION
Do not use with an analog connection to a camera when
set to . If used with the VOLUME +/− buttons (y) near
maximum level, excessive input could occur depending on
the camera input specications, possibly resulting in damage
to the connected devices.
NOTE
When set to “ ”, the level output from the OUTPUT jack is
xed. Refer to the list of cameras that have been conrmed
for operation on the TASCAM website (https://tascam.jp/int/
product/ca-xlr2d/docs) when setting the camera input gain
value.
tOUTPUT jack
This can be used in two ways, either as a headphone output
for monitoring the analog sound with headphones or as a
camera output to connect the analog sound to a camera.
Set the OUTPUT switch (r) output setting according to the
equipment connected and the application.
ATTENTION
iDo not use with an analog connection to a camera when
set to . If used with the VOLUME +/− buttons (y) near
maximum level, excessive input could occur depending on
the camera input specications, possibly resulting in damage
to the connected devices.
iTo monitor the analog connection to a camera use TASCAM
AK-DR11C or AK-DR11CMKII splitter and attenuator cables.
(see “Monitoring through this unit (CA-XLR2d-AN)”on page
16)
yVOLUME +/− buttons
i If the OUTPUT switch (r) is set to “ ”, the output volume
of the OUTPUT jack (t) can be adjusted (25 levels total).
i The volume can be reset to its center value by pressing
the + and − buttons at the same time. The setting from
previous use is retained when the power is turned on
again.
VCAUTION
Continuously pressing the VOLUME + button might cause
sudden loud noises, which could harm your hearing or result
in other trouble.
uMic holder
This holder can be used to mount mics with 19–23 mm
diameters. (see“Connecting a single mic that uses phantom
power” on page 12)
When not being used, it can be removed. (see“Removing the
mic holder” on page 13)
iINPUT 1 jack
This input jack is for mics and other recording devices.
Phantom power is supported.
ATTENTION
iBefore connecting or disconnecting a mic or other recording
device, turn this unit o.
iDo not connect or disconnect mics when the INPUT 1 switch
(4) is set to +48V. Doing so could cause a loud noise and
might damage this unit and connected equipment.
iDo not set the INPUT 1 switch (4) to “+48V” when
connecting mics that do not require phantom power.
iWhen using a single mic, connect it to the INPUT 1 jack.
oCable holder
This is a holder for mic cables.
Wrap and x cables appropriately so that noise is not caused
by loose or pulled cables.
6TASCAM CA-XLR2d

2 - Names and Functions of Parts
pINPUT 2 jack
This input jack is for mics and other recording devices.
Phantom power is supported.
ATTENTION
iBefore connecting or disconnecting a mic or other recording
device, turn this unit o.
iDo not connect or disconnect mics when the INPUT 2 switch
(7) is set to +48V. Doing so could cause a loud noise and
might damage this unit and connected equipment.
iDo not set the INPUT 2 switch (7) to “+48V” when
connecting mics that do not require phantom power.
iWhen using a single mic, connect it to the INPUT 1 jack.
aINPUT 3 jack
This input jack is for mics and other recording devices.
This supports plug-in power (2.7 V).
sBattery holder release button
Press this button to remove the battery holder.
dUSB port
This micro-B USB port is specically for rmware updates. For
instructions about updating, refer to the Firmware Update
Manual for this unit that will be provided when a rmware
update is released.
ATTENTION
This cannot be used to power the unit, for example.
fBattery holder
External batteries can be used to power this unit when, for
example, power cannot be supplied from the camera, you
do not want to use the camera battery or there are other
limitations to power supply due to the camera battery,
operating conditions or other factors.
gBATTERY POWERED switch
Set this switch to “ON” to power the unit with the external
batteries, or set this to“OFF” to power the unit from the
camera.
ATTENTION
iWhen connecting the battery holder and turning the power
on for the rst time, set this switch to “OFF”.
iSince the input sound will be muted when the BATTERY
POWERED switch (g) is switched, stop recording with the
camera temporarily beforehand.
hBattery type switch
Use this to set the type of battery used.
This setting is used to show the amount of remaining battery
charge and determine if the unit has enough power for
normal operation.
Ni-MH Use this setting for nickel-metal hydride
batteries.
Lithium Use this setting for lithium batteries.
ALK Use this setting for alkaline batteries.
Accessory shoe attachment adapter
parts
CA-XLR2d-C CA-XLR2d-F CA-XLR2d-AN
jAccessory shoe mount adapter
Three types of adapters are available for dierent cameras.
Connect the adapter that matches the camera being used,
and securely tighten the attachment screws. (You can do this
replacement yourself.)
i See “Changing accessory shoe attachment adapters” on
page 8 for instructions about changing accessory shoe
attachment adapters.
i A list of cameras that have been conrmed for use with this
unit is available on the TASCAM website (https://tascam.jp/
int/product/ca-xlr2d/docs).
ATTENTION
iDo not directly touch the connectors with hands.
iAlways turn the camera power o when connecting or
disconnecting this unit with a camera.
iAfter connecting this unit to a camera, tighten it securely to
prevent it from falling o.
kLock lever (CA-XLR2d-C)
To secure this unit to a camera, move the lock lever toward
LOCKy. (see “Connecting to a camera (CA-XLR2d-C/CA-
XLR2d-F)” on page 10)
NOTE
To release the lock lever, move it while pressing the lock
button.
lTightening dial (CA-XLR2d-F/CA-XLR2d-AN)
To secure this unit to a camera, turn the tightening dial from
right to left. (see “Connecting to a camera (CA-XLR2d-C/CA-
XLR2d-F)” on page 10) (see“Monitoring through this unit
(CA-XLR2d-AN)” on page 16)
TASCAM CA-XLR2d 7

3 – Preparation
Preparing the unit
Changing accessory shoe attachment
adapters
Change the accessory shoe attachment adapter to use an
analog connection with this unit or switch to a camera by a
dierent manufacturer.
For details about accessory shoe attachment adapters, see “j
Accessory shoe mount adapter” on page 7.
Changing the accessory shoe attachment
adapter
1. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the 2 screws that
ax the accessory shoe attachment adapter (j).
2. Remove the accessory shoe attachment adapter from the
unit.
3. Being careful to use the correct orientation, align the
replacement accessory shoe adapter with the unit.
4. Use the 2 screws that were removed to ax the accessory
shoe adapter.
ATTENTION
Attach a connector cover to the removed accessory
shoe adapter. Failure to do so could result in this unit
malfunctioning due to the ingress of foreign matter or
connector damage, for example.
Preparing the power supply
This unit can be powered in two ways: from a camera or using
AA batteries.
Alkaline, nickel-metal hydride or lithium AA batteries can be
used.
Use AA batteries when any of the following considerations apply
to power supply from a camera.
oPower supply from a camera cannot be received
oUsing the camera battery is undesirable
oPower supply is limited due to conditions that include the
camera battery or operating status
Using power supplied from a camera
Power can be supplied to the unit when a camera that can
supply power is connected.
For information about cameras that support power supply, refer
to the list of cameras that have been conrmed for operation on
the TASCAM website (https://tascam.jp/int/product/ca-xlr2d/
docs) or contact TASCAM Customer Support.
8TASCAM CA-XLR2d

3 – Preparation
Using AA batteries
Install 2 AA batteries in the included battery holder, and attach
it to the unit.
1. Slide the cover from the battery holder (f) to remove it.
Install 2 AA batteries with their ¥and ^marks as shown
in the holder. Then reattach the cover.
2. Remove the battery holder connector cover.
3. Remove the bottom connector cover from the unit and
attach the battery holder to the unit.
ATTENTION
If the BATTERY POWERED switch (g) on the battery holder
was set to “ON” when it was connected to the unit, the switch
must be set to “OFF” once and then back to“ON” in order to
use battery power.
4. Set the battery type switch (h) according to the type of
batteries being used.
5. Set the BATTERY POWERED switch (g) to“ON” to supply
power from the batteries.
ATTENTION
iManganese dry cell batteries cannot be used with this unit.
iThis unit cannot recharge Ni-MH batteries. Use a
commercially available recharger.
iWhen not using the battery holder, attach the bottom
connector cover to the unit. Using without this cover could
result in this unit malfunctioning due to the ingress of foreign
matter or connector damage, for example.
NOTE
A great amount of power is required to provide phantom
power to condenser mics. If condenser mics are used while
powering the unit with AA batteries, operation time will be
shortened due to mic power consumption.
TASCAM CA-XLR2d 9

3 – Preparation
Connecting with cameras
After preparing this unit, connect it to a camera.
ATTENTION
iAlways conrm that the power is o on both this unit and the
camera before connecting them.
iDo not hold this unit when lifting a connected device. Doing
so could put excessive burden on the connection parts and
damage this unit and the connected device.
iDisconnect this unit from the connected device and store it
when not in use. Not doing so could put excessive burden
on the connection parts and damage this unit and the
connected device.
Connecting to a camera
(CA-XLR2d-C/CA-XLR2d-F)
1. Disengage the lock lever (k) or the tightening dial (l), and
remove the accessory shoe attachment adapter cover.
2. With the unit oriented correctly, mount the connector part
to the camera accessory shoe, sliding it all the way in.
3. Using the lock lever (k) or the tightening dial (l), attach
this unit to the connected device securely.
Lock button
NOTE
To remove a CA-XLR2d-C, release the lock lever while
pressing the lock button.
10 TASCAM CA-XLR2d