Tascam Digital Portastudio DP-24 User manual

D01159020D
DP-24
Digital Portastudio
OWNER'S MANUAL

2TASCAM DP-24
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK,
DO NOT REMOVE COVER (OR BACK). NO USER-
SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO
QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol,
within equilateral triangle, is intended to
alert the user to the presence of uninsulated
“dangerous voltage”within the product’s
enclosure that may be of sufficient
magnitude to constitute a risk of electric
shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral
triangle is intended to alert the user to
the presence of important operating and
maintenance (servicing) instructions in the
literature accompanying the appliance.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS
APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
For U.S.A.
ª
TO THE USER
This equipment has been tested and found to comply
with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in
a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction
manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio
or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged
to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures.
a) Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
b) Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver.
c) Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is connected.
d) Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
CAUTION
Changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly
approved by TEAC CORPORATION for compliance could
void the user's authority to operate this equipment.
For European Customers
ª
Disposal of electrical and electronic equipment
(a) All electrical and electronic equipment should be
disposed of separately from the municipal waste
stream via collection facilities designated by the
government or local authorities.
(b) By disposing of electrical and electronic equipment
correctly, you will help save valuable resources and
prevent any potential negative effects on human
health and the environment.
(c) Improper disposal of waste electrical and electronic
equipment can have serious effects on the
environment and human health because of the
presence of hazardous substances in the equipment.
(d) The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
symbol, which shows a wheeled bin that has been
crossed out, indicates that electrical and electronic
equipment must be collected and disposed of
separately from household waste.
(e) Return and collection systems are available to end
users. For more detailed information about the
disposal of old electrical and electronic equipment,
please contact your city office, waste disposal service
or the shop where you purchased the equipment.
For Canada
THIS CLASS A DIGITAL APPARATUS COMPLIES WITH
CANADIAN ICES-003.CET
APPAREIL NUMERIQUE DE LA CLASSE B EST CONFORME
A LA NORME NMB-003 DU CANADA.
This appliance has a serial number located on the
bottom panel. Please record the model number and
serial number and retain them for your records.
Model number ______________________________
Serial number ______________________________
IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

TASCAM DP-24 3
1 Read these instructions.
2 Keep these instructions.
3 Heed all warnings.
4 Follow all instructions.
5 Do not use this apparatus near water.
6 Clean only with dry cloth.
7 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
ampliers) that produce heat.
9 Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized
or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two
blades with one wider than the other. A grounding
type plug has two blades and a third grounding
prong. The wide blade or the third prong are
provided for your safety. If the provided plug does
not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for
replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10 Protect the power cord from being walked on
or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience
receptacles, and the point where they exit from the
apparatus.
11 Only use attachments/accessories specified by the
manufacturer.
12 Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or
table specied by the manufacturer, or sold with the
apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when
moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid
injury from tip-over.
13 Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or
when unused for long periods of time.
14 Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
Servicing is required when the apparatus has been
damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or
plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects
have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has
been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate
normally, or has been dropped.
The apparatus draws nominal non-operating power
•
from the AC outlet with its POWER or STANDBY/ON
switch not in the ON position.
The mains plug is used as the disconnect device, the
•
disconnect device shall remain readily operable.
Caution should be taken when using earphones or
•
headphones with the product because excessive sound
pressure (volume) from earphones or headphones can
cause hearing loss.
CAUTION
Do not expose this apparatus to drips or splashes.
•
Do not place any objects filled with liquids, such as
•
vases, on the apparatus.
Do not install this apparatus in a confined space such
•
as a book case or similar unit.
The apparatus should be located close enough to the
•
AC outlet so that you can easily grasp the power cord
plug at any time.
If the product uses batteries (including a battery pack
•
or ooinstalled batteries), they should not be exposed
to sunshine, fire or excessive heat.
CAUTION for products that use replaceable lithium
•
batteries: oothere is danger of explosion if a battery
is replaced with an incorrect type of battery. Replace
only with the same or equivalent type.
WORNING
Products with Class !construction are equipped
with a power supply cord that has a grounding
plug. The cord of such a product must be plugged
into an AC outlet that has a protective grounding
connection.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

4TASCAM DP-24
CAUTIONS ABOUT LASER RADIATION
ª
This product has been designed and manufactured
according to FDA regulations “title 21, CFR, chapter 1,
subchapter J, based on the Radiation Control for Health
and Safety Act of 1968,”and is classified as a class 1 laser
product. There is no hazardous invisible laser radiation
during operation because invisible laser radiation emitted
inside of this product is completely confined in the
protective housings.
The label required in this regulation is shown at 1.
For USA
1
Cautions:
DO NOT REMOVE THE PROTECTIVE HOUSING USING A
•
SCREWDRIVER.
USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR
•
PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE
SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY RESULT IN HAZARDOUS
RADIATION EXPOSURE.
IF THIS PRODUCT DEVELOPS TROUBLE, CONTACT YOUR
•
NEAREST QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL, AND DO
NOT USE THE PRODUCT IN ITS DAMAGED STATE.
Optical pickup
Type : SW651L
Manufacturer : Hitachi Media Electronics Co., Ltd.
Laser output : Less than 95mW on the objective lens
Wavelength : 785 nm (Typ.)
Standard : IEC60825-1: 2007
Safety Information

TASCAM DP-24 5
Table of Contents
1 – Introduction ..............................................8
Features ..................................................................................8
Items included with the product ..................................8
Conventions used in this manual.................................. 8
Intellectual property rights ............................................. 9
Precautions for placement and use.............................. 9
Beware of condensation...................................................9
Cleaning the unit.................................................................9
About SD cards ....................................................................9
Precautions for use ....................................................10
About CDs (Compact Discs) ..........................................10
Precautions for use ....................................................10
About CD-R and CD-RW discs................................10
2 - Quick Guide..............................................12
Playback and mixing........................................................12
Preparation...................................................................12
Listening to the demo song...................................13
Recording and mastering ..............................................14
Creating a new song .................................................14
Connecting and setting the input sources .......15
Setting the guitar as the recording source for
TRACK 1..........................................................................15
Adjusting and monitoring the input level ........15
Recording a guitar to TRACK 1 ..............................16
Playing back the recording.....................................16
Recording a guitar to TRACK 2 ..............................16
Recording a vocal to TRACK 3................................17
Mixing the tracks........................................................18
Mastering a recording ..............................................19
Creating an audio CD with the master file...............21
Inserting a CD..............................................................21
Writing to a CD-R/CD-RW........................................22
Ejecting a CD................................................................23
Shutting down ...................................................................23
3 – Names and Functions of Parts ...............24
Top panel .............................................................................24
Front panel ..........................................................................28
Rear panel............................................................................29
Home screen.......................................................................30
Menu structure ..................................................................31
Screen operations.............................................................32
4 – Preparation..............................................34
Inserting and removing SD cards................................34
Inserting an SD card..................................................34
Removing the card ....................................................34
About write-protected SD cards...........................34
Powering the unit .............................................................34
Start-up & Shutdown.......................................................35
Starting up the unit ...................................................35
Shutting down ............................................................35
Setting the date and time..............................................35
Preparing an SD card for use.........................................36
Recorder modes ................................................................36
Connecting other equipment ......................................36
Front panel ...................................................................36
Rear panel.....................................................................37
Adjusting the contrast.....................................................37
5 - Song Management ..................................38
Editing names.....................................................................38
Loading a song ..................................................................38
Creating a new song........................................................38
Saving a song .....................................................................39
Viewing song information .............................................40
Copying songs ...................................................................40
Erasing songs......................................................................41
Protecting songs ...............................................................41
Deleting unnecessary audio data from a song ......42
Changing a song name...................................................43
6 - Basic Recording........................................44
Selecting the input sources...........................................44
Assigning inputs................................................................44
Assigning to a mono track......................................44
Assigning to a stereo track......................................44
Assigning to a stereo bus ........................................44
Checking the assignment .......................................45
Canceling an assignment........................................45
Using phantom power ....................................................45
Monitoring...........................................................................45
Monitor selection.......................................................45
OL indicators and level meters.....................................46
Setting the Mixer screen.................................................46
Using EQ (equalizer)..................................................46
DIGITAL TRIM setting (Track only) ........................47
Built-in Send Effects and External Effects..........47
Setting built-in effects..............................................47
Setting the stereo position.....................................48
Changing the signal phase.....................................48
Checking the fader level..........................................48
Solo ........................................................................................48
Muting tracks......................................................................48
Rehearsing the recording ..............................................49
Making the first recording .............................................49

6 TASCAM DP-24
Table of Contents
Multitrack recording ........................................................50
Setting the tracks for recording............................50
Setting track pan and level.....................................50
Input selection and assignment ...........................50
Setting input levels....................................................50
Recording......................................................................50
Undoing an operation.....................................................50
Setting the undoing feature...................................50
Undoing the last operation (single undo).........51
Undoing previous operations (multi-undo).....51
7 - Recorder Functions..................................52
Punching in and out ........................................................52
Using a foot switch to punch in/out....................52
Setting the foot switch.............................................52
Bouncing tracks.................................................................53
Performing the track bouncing.............................53
Checking the result ...................................................53
Direct Location Function................................................54
Locating directly a specified time ........................54
Locating directly a specified measure/beat .....54
Location marks...................................................................54
Setting a location mark............................................54
Skipping to location marks.....................................55
Deleting a location mark.........................................55
Returning to zero (TO ZERO) and returning to last
recording position (TO LAST REC)...............................55
Fast forward/rewind search...........................................55
Jog positioning..................................................................55
Viewing the track's waveform ...............................55
Listening to the track sounds ................................55
Repeat playback ................................................................56
Setting IN/OUT points ..............................................56
Using repeat playback..............................................56
Moving back a few seconds for replay (jump back
playback)..............................................................................56
Checking cueing points (preview)..............................57
Auto punch in/out............................................................57
Setting punch in/out points...................................58
Checking punch in/out points ..............................58
Rehearsing punch in/out.........................................58
Performing auto punch in/out..............................59
Checking a take ..........................................................59
Virtual tracks .......................................................................59
8 - Track Editing ............................................60
Overview of track editing...............................................60
Editing points ..............................................................60
Basic editing procedures.........................................60
Explanation of items .................................................60
COPY/PASTE ........................................................................61
COPY/INSERT ......................................................................61
MOVE/PASTE.......................................................................62
MOVE/INSERT .....................................................................62
OPEN (Insert Silence).......................................................62
CUT (Remove Part)............................................................62
SILENCE (Erase Part) .........................................................63
CLONE TRACK (Track Duplication) ..............................63
CLEAN OUT (Delete Track) .............................................63
9 - Using Built-In Effects...............................64
Dynamic effects.................................................................64
Inserting a dynamic effect ......................................64
Editing a dynamic effect..........................................64
Guitar effects ......................................................................64
Inserting a guitar effect............................................64
Editing guitar effects.................................................65
Calling effects from the guitar effect library ....65
Saving guitar effects in the library.......................65
Send effects.........................................................................65
Using send effects......................................................65
Editing send effects...................................................65
Calling the send effect library................................66
Saving send effects in the library .........................66
10 - Mixing Down and Mastering Tracks.....68
Mixing down tracks..........................................................68
Levels and balance ....................................................68
Fader group..................................................................68
Stereo position (panning).......................................68
TRACK EQ (equalizer)................................................68
Send effects..................................................................69
Creating a master file.......................................................69
Setting the start and end points...........................69
Creating a master file................................................70
Exiting Mixdown mode............................................70
Checking the master file.................................................70
Ending master file checking...................................71
Finishing up a master file (mastering).......................71
Mastering procedures ..............................................71
Using the mastering EQ (equalizer).....................71
Using mastering compression...............................72
Using normalize..........................................................73
Using the noise shaper (Noise Shaped
Dithering)......................................................................73
Exiting Mastering mode ..........................................73

TASCAM DP-24 7
Table of Contents
11 - Various Other Functions........................74
Metronome .........................................................................74
MIDI Sync .............................................................................74
MIDI remote control.........................................................75
Tuner function....................................................................75
Setup (PREFERENCE)........................................................76
Auto Monitor ...............................................................76
Restoring the initial preference settings ..................77
Viewing information ........................................................77
12 - SD Card Management............................78
Quick formatting an SD card.........................................78
Full formatting an SD card.............................................79
13 - Exchanging Data with a Computer.......80
Operating system requirements..................................80
Connecting to a computer ............................................80
Disconnecting .............................................................81
Track import and export.................................................82
Importing tracks.........................................................82
Exporting tracks..........................................................83
Deleting files from the AudioDepot folder..............83
14 - Using CDs................................................84
Using the CD drive............................................................84
Preparations before using CDs with this unit ..84
Types of CDs that can be used with this unit...84
Loading and ejecting CDs..............................................85
Loading a CD................................................................85
Ejecting a CD................................................................86
Forcing disc ejection.................................................86
Playing back an Audio CD..............................................86
Creating an Audio CD......................................................87
Using Disc At Once ....................................................87
Using Track At Once ..................................................88
Using LIVE WRITER .....................................................89
Finalizing a CD.............................................................90
Importing songs from an Audio CD...........................90
Erasing a CD-RW................................................................91
Media Compatibility Table.............................................91
15 – Troubleshooting....................................92
16 – Messages ...............................................93
General messages.............................................................93
CD mode messages..........................................................95
CD-related error messages............................................96
17 – Specifications ........................................97
Ratings ..................................................................................97
Input/output ratings........................................................97
Analog audio input/output ratings.....................97
Control input/output ratings.................................97
Audio performance..........................................................97
Operating requirements.................................................97
Dimensional drawings ....................................................98
General..................................................................................98
Block diagram.....................................................................99
Level diagram.................................................................. 100
18 – Appendix .............................................101
MIDI Control Change message ................................. 101
Mixer control change parameters..................... 101
MIDI Program Change message............................... 102
Dynamic effects ....................................................... 102
Preset libraries of the send effects.................... 102
Preset libraries of the guitar effects.................. 102
MIDI Implementation Chart ................................ 103
Bit-map array of MMC commands........................... 104

8 TASCAM DP-24
1 – Introduction
Thank you very much for purchasing the TASCAM DP-24
Digital Portastudio.
Before connecting and using the unit, please take time to
read this manual thoroughly to ensure you understand
how to properly set up and connect the unit, as well as
the operation of its many useful and convenient functions.
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 website (http://tascam.com/).
Features
This unit uses SD cards for multitrack recording of up to
8 tracks and playback of up to 24 tracks simultaneously.
Multiple tracks can be mixed down to stereo to create a
master file by using the built-in mixer functions.
Master files can be written to CD-Rs and similar media,
as well as transferred to a computer that is connected
via USB. Moreover, since transferring data between the
unit and a computer is possible, you can copy tracks and
master files, and back up song files to a computer.
Your 24-Track DIGITAL PORTASTUDIO uses SD cards as
•
recording media and includes a CD drive
Supports SDHC standards for large capacity SD cards of
•
up to 32GB
Multitrack recorder functions include simultaneous
•
8 track recording + 24 track playback (44.1/48kHz,
16/24bit)
18+1 45mm faders (for track and master level
•
adjustment)
Each track has independent
•SELECT button and REC
button
+48V Phantom power supported mic input
•
Eight balanced mic/line inputs (XLR/TRS combo jacks)
•
High-impedance guitar input supported (INPUT H only:
•
6.3mm (1/4") TS phone jack)
3.5-inch large TFT color LCD display
•
Independent 3-band equalizers for each input and
•
playback track
Mixing down to a dedicated master file possible
•
Included mastering effects can be used on mix downs
•
of master files
Includes Reverb and various other effects that can be
•
independently adjusted for each playback track
Auto punch in/out function
•
Track bounce function
•
Track editing functions include COPY INSERT, COPY
•
PASTE, MOVE INSERT, MOVE PASTE, OPEN, CUT,
SILENCE, CLONE TRACK, and CLEAN OUT
Undo and redo functions, including history level
•
setting
Locate Mark function
•
Tuner and metronome functions
•
Audio CDs can be created from mixed down master
•
files, and tracks on Audio CDs can be played back and
imported
Song data and WAVE files can be copied and backed up
•
to a computer connected via USB2.0
Punch in/out and other functions can be assigned to
•
and controlled by a foot switch (TASCAM RC-3F, sold
separately)
Items included with the product
The DP-24 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 store where you purchased this unit
if any of these items are missing or have been damaged
during transportation.
Main unit
•........................................................................................ 1
AC adapter (TASCAM PS-1225L)
•............................................. 1
Power cord for AC adapter
•...................................................... 1
SD memory card (inserted into the unit)
•........................... 1
USB cable (80cm)
•........................................................................ 1
Warranty card
•............................................................................... 1
Owner's Manual (this manual)
•................................................ 1
CAUTION
Never use any AC adapter or power cord other than the
supplied TASCAM PS-1225L AC adapter and AC adapter
power cord. Moreover, do not use the supplied AC adapter
and AC adapter power cord with other equipment. Doing
so could cause malfunction, fire or electric shock.
Conventions used in this manual
Conventions used in this manual are as follows.
Names of buttons, controls, etc. of this unit appear like
•
this: MENU.
Text displayed on the LCD display appears like this:
•
MENU .
The four buttons beneath the LCD display (
•F1 to F4)
are function buttons. The functions displayed at the
bottom of each screen are sometimes shown after the
button names in parentheses.
Example: F1 ( TIMELINE ) button, F4 (t) button.
"SD memory card" is abbreviated as "SD card".
•
CD-DA format may be mentioned as Audio CD format.
•
Moreover, a CD recorded with Audio CD format tracks
may be mentioned as an Audio CD.
An unused CD-R/CD-RW or a completely erased CD-RW
•
may be mentioned as a blank CD.
Text displayed on a computer monitor appears like this:
•OK.

TASCAM DP-24 9
1 – Introduction
Additional information is introduced in the following
•
styles when needed: TIP, NOTE, and CAUTION.
TIP
Useful hints when using the unit.
NOTE
Explanation of actions in special situations, supplementary
explanations, etc.
CAUTION
Instructions that should be followed to avoid injury,
damage to the unit or other equipment, and loss of data.
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.
•
Microsoft, Windows, Windows XP, Windows Vista,
•
and Windows 7 are either registered trademarks or
trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United
States and/or other countries.
Apple, Macintosh, iMac, Mac OS and Mac OS X are
•
trademarks of Apple Inc.
Pentium and Intel are trademarks of Intel Corporation
•
in the U.S. and/or other countries.
Other company names, product names and logos
•
in this document are the trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective owners.
Any data, including, but not limited to information,
described herein are intended only as illustrations
of such data and/or information and not as the
specifications for such data and/or information. TEAC
Corporation disclaims any warranty that any use
of such data and/or information shall be free from
infringement of any third party's intellectual property
rights or other proprietary rights, and further, assumes
no liability of whatsoever nature in the event of any
such infringement, or arising from or connected with
or related to the use of such data and/or information.
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.
Please use the product appropriately.
Under no circumstances will TEAC Corporation be
responsible for the consequences of any illegal
copying performed using the recorder.
Precautions for placement and
use
The operating temperature should be between 5°C and
•
35°C (41°F and 95°F).
Do not install in the following types of places. Doing
•
so could degrade the sound quality and/or cause
malfunctions.
Places with significant vibrations or that are
•
otherwise unstable
Near windows or other places exposed to direct
•
sunlight
Near heaters or other extremely hot places
•
Extremely cold places
•
Places with bad ventilation or high humidity
•
Very dusty locations
•
Make sure that the unit is mounted in a level position
•
for correct operation.
Do not place any object on the unit for heat dissipation.
•
Avoid installing this unit on top of any heat-generating
•
electrical device such as a power amplifier.
Beware of condensation
If the unit is moved from a cold to a warm place, or used
after a sudden temperature change, there is a danger of
condensation; vapor in the air could condense on the
internal mechanism, making correct operation impossible.
To prevent this, or if this occurs, let the unit sit for one or
two hours at the new room temperature before using.
Cleaning the unit
Use a dry soft cloth to wipe the unit clean. Do not clean
the unit with a chemically treated cloth or substances
such as benzine, thinner and alcohol. This could damage
the surface or change the color of the unit.
About SD cards
This unit uses SD cards for recording and playback.
SD and SDHC cards that are at least 512 MB in size can be
used.
A list of SD cards that have been tested with this unit can
be found on the TASCAM website (http://tascam.com/).
Use of cards that have not been verified for use with this
unit could result in the unit not functioning properly.

10 TASCAM DP-24
1 – Introduction
Precautions for use
SD cards are delicate media. In order to avoid damaging a
card or the card slot, please take the following precautions
when handling them.
Do not leave them in extremely hot or cold places.
•
Do not leave them in extremely humid places.
•
Do not let them get wet.
•
Do not put things on top of them or twist them.
•
Do not hit them.
•
Do not remove or insert an SD card when the power is
•
ON.
About CDs (Compact Discs)
In addition to Audio CDs, this unit can play CD-R and CD-
RW discs on which Audio CD (CD-DA) format files are
recorded. The unit can also play 8cm CDs.
Precautions for use
Use only CD, CD-R and CD-RW discs that bear the
•
following logos.
CD-R
CD-RW
Always place the compact discs in the trays with their
•
label facing upward.
To remove a disc from its case, press down on the
•
center of the disc holder, then lift the disc out, holding
it carefully by the edges.
Do not touch the signal side (the unlabeled side).
•
Fingerprints, oils and other substances can cause errors
during recording.
To clean the signal side of a disc, wipe gently with a soft
•
dry cloth from the center towards the outside edge.
Dirt on discs can lower the sound quality, so clean
them and always store them in a clean state.
Do not use any record spray, anti-static solutions,
•
benzine, paint thinner or other chemical agents to
clean CDs. This could damage the delicate playing
surface and cause CDs to become unplayable.
Do not apply labels or other materials to discs. Do
•
not use discs that have had tape, stickers or other
materials applied to their surface. Do not use discs that
have sticky residue from stickers, etc. Such discs could
become stuck in the unit or cause it to malfunction.
Never use a commercially available CD stabilizer. Using
•
stabilizers with this unit will damage the mechanism
and cause it to malfunction.
Do not use cracked discs.
•
Only use circular compact discs. Do not use non-
•
circular promotional, etc. discs.
Some record companies sell copy-protected discs or
•
copy-controlled discs that may not play back correctly
in this unit. Since such discs may not conform with the
CD standard, do not use them in this unit.
If you experience problems with such non-standard
•
discs, you should contact the producers of the disc.
About CD-R and CD-RW discs
CD-R discs can be recorded only once. Tracks (songs)
recorded in such discs cannot be deleted. However, if the
disc has not been finalized and sufficient space is available
on the disc, additional material can be recorded. After
finishing recording, finalizing a CD-R makes it playable in
most ordinary CD players (some CD players might not be
able to play these discs).
If a CD-RW disc becomes full, you can erase the recorded
data to allow reuse.
However, you cannot designate specific songs for erasure.
Even after being finalized, CD-RW discs can only be played
in players that specifically support their playback.

TASCAM DP-24 11
1 – Introduction

12 TASCAM DP-24
2 - Quick Guide
Playback and mixing
In this section, we will play back the demo song on the
included SD card.
When this unit is purchased new, the SD card with the
demo song on it is already installed in the unit, but we
will start by explaining how to insert an SD card using the
procedures below.
Preparation
1. Insert the included SD card into the SD card slot
on the rear panel. Be careful not to forcibly insert
the card in the wrong direction. Doing so could
damage the SD card slot or the SD card.
2. Connect the supplied AC adapter (TASCAM PS-
1225L) to the DC IN 12V jack on the rear panel.
TASCAM
PS-1225L
The bottom panel has a hook (cord holder) that can be
used to hold the AC adapter cord in place. When using
it, wrap the cord around this cord holder to prevent it
from being disconnected during use.
CAUTION
Never use any AC adapter or power cord other than the
supplied TASCAM PS-1225L AC adapter and AC adapter
power cord. Use of a different adapter could cause
malfunction, fire or electric shock.
3. Connect headphones to the PHONES jack on the
front panel.
4. Press and hold the STANDBY/ON button for a few
seconds on the rear panel to turn the power ON.
When the unit starts, the Home screen appears on
the display.
Start-up screen
Home screen
CAUTION
Do not remove or insert an SD card when the power
•
is ON. Always turn the power OFF (standby) before
removing or inserting an SD card.
AC outlet
Headphones
DC plug

TASCAM DP-24 13
2 - Quick Guide
When the power is on, do not cut the power to the
•
unit by, for example disconnecting the power cord. All
settings made since the last time you saved will not be
saved. If you cut the power while an SD card is being
accessed, all recorded songs and data may be damaged
and cannot be recovered.
Before turning the power ON, minimize the
•
headphones volume and the volume on any monitoring
system connected to this unit.
TIP
If an amplifier or powered speakers are connected to the
MONITOR OUT jacks, you can monitor using speakers.
Listening to the demo song
The included SD card in the unit contains a demo song.
We will use this demo song to practice listening to and
mixing a recording.
1. Press the HOME button to open the Home screen.
2. When the recorder is stopped, press the MENU
button to open the MENU screen.
3. Use the JOG/DATA dial or the CURSOR (5/b/g/t)
buttons to select (green highlight) SONG , and then
press the F4 (t) button.
The SONG LIST screen appears.
4. Use the JOG/DATA dial or the CURSOR (5/b)
buttons to select DEMO SONG , and then press the
F4 (t) button to open a sub-menu.
5. Use the JOG/DATA dial or the CURSOR (5/b)
buttons to select LOAD , and then press the F4 (t)
button.
The SONG LOAD pop-up window appears.
6. Press the F2 ( YES ) button to load the demo song.
The demo song is loaded and the display returns to
the SONG LIST screen.
7. Press the HOME button to return to the Home
screen.
8. Press the PLAY (7) button, and raise the TRACK
1 to 23/24 faders, the STEREO fader and the
MONITOR LEVEL knob to listen to the demo song.
The STEREO fader adjusts the overall volume of TRACK
1 to 23/24. The standard position of the STEREO fader
is 0dB.
Use TRACK 1 to 23/24 faders to adjust the balance of
the tracks.
Use the MONITOR LEVEL knob to adjust the final
monitoring volume.
9. Press the MIXER button to open the Mixer screen.
10. Press the SOURCE button to select INPUT A to H, or
press the SELECT button to select a track to be set,
and then use the PAN knob to set the stereo signal
position of each track.

14 TASCAM DP-24
2 - Quick Guide
TIP
Press the
•STOP (8) and REW (m) (TO ZERO)
buttons at the same time to return to the beginning of
the song (ZERO point) (TO ZERO function).
If you press the wrong button and open a different
•
screen, press the HOME button to return to the Home
screen at any time.
Recording and mastering
In this section we will practice multitrack recording.
Here we will explain how to connect an electric guitar and
rhythm guitar to INPUT H, and an external microphone to
INPUT B.
In the following example, we will explain how to record a
rhythm guitar part with an electric guitar to track 1 and a
lead guitar part to track 2. Then, we will use the external
microphone to record vocals to track 3. Finally, we will mix
down the tracks to stereo.
We will assume that you have already followed the
instructions in the previous section, and that you have
connected the monitoring equipment, started the unit
and inserted the SD card.
Creating a new song
1. When the recorder is stopped, press the MENU
button to open the MENU screen.
2. Use the JOG/DATA dial or the CURSOR (5/b/g/t)
buttons to select (green highlight) SONG , and then
press the F4 (t) button.
The SONG LIST screen appears.
3. Press the F4 (t) button to open the sub-menu and
then use the JOG/DATA dial or the CURSOR (5/b)
buttons to select CREATE .
4. Press the F4 (t) button to open the SONG
CREATE pop-up window.
The created song is given the name SONG_0002 .
5. Change the name (title) of the song as necessary in
the item Name . (See "Editing names" on page 38.)
6. Use the CURSOR (5/b) buttons to move the
cursor (blue highlight) to select Bit (Bit rate), Hz
(Sampling frequency), and then use the JOG/DATA
dial to set.
CAUTION
When creating a CD from a master file, set to 44.1kHz,
16bit.
7. Press the F2 ( YES ) button.
The currently loaded song is saved and a new song is
created.
8. Press the HOME button to return to the Home
screen.

TASCAM DP-24 15
2 - Quick Guide
Connecting and setting the input
sources
1. Connect an electric guitar to the MIC/LINE INPUTS
H jack on the rear panel.
2. Set the LINE-GUITAR switch to GUITAR on the rear
panel.
The GUITAR indicator lights.
Now the guitar becomes the input source for INPUT H.
TIP
When connecting an electric-acoustic guitar with a built-
in preamp or an active-type electric guitar, or when using
an effects pedal, for example, between the guitar and
this unit, set the LINE-GUITAR switch to LINE on the rear
panel.
Setting the guitar as the recording
source for TRACK 1
When you press the ASSIGN button to open the Assign
screen, the default screen setting for the recording source
is A (INPUT A) for TRACK 1, B (INPUT B) for TRACK 2, C
(INPUT C) for TRACK 3, and so on for D to H (INPUT D to H)
for TRACK 4 to 8. (See "Assigning inputs" on page 44.)
Since initially the input source of the INPUT H is set as the
recording source of the TRACK 8, you must change the
recording source to TRACK 1.
Follow the procedure below to change the recording
source of the TRACK 1.
1. Press the ASSIGN button to open the Assign screen.
2. Use the CURSOR (5/b/g/t) buttons or press the
SELECT button for TRACK 1 and align the cursor
(frame) on the Assign screen with TRACK 1 .
3. Use the JOG/DATA dial or the SOURCE button for
INPUT H to set the recording source of TRACK 1 to
H .
Adjusting and monitoring the input
level
1. Press the HOME button to return to the Home
screen.
2. Press the REC button for TRACK 1.
The REC button flashes and the unit enters recording
standby.
Guitar
GUITAR indicator

16 TASCAM DP-24
2 - Quick Guide
3. Use the TRIM knob for INPUT H to adjust the guitar
input level. Set the TRIM knob so that the OL
indicator for INPUT H does not light even when the
loudest sound to be recorded is input.
If the OL indicator continues to light even when the
TRIM knob is turned down, the guitar signal itself is
too loud. In this case, lower the output level on the
guitar.
When you play the guitar, the input level is shown by
the level meter for 1 (TRACK 1) on the display.
When you raise the fader for TRACK 1, the STEREO
fader and the MONITOR LEVEL knob, you can hear the
sound of the guitar through the headphones, and the
L and R level meters move.
NOTE
You can use the
•PAN knob for TRACK 1 on the Mixer
screen to set the stereo position for monitoring.
When the
•REC button for TRACK 1 is unlit, you cannot
hear the guitar sound that is being input.
Recording a guitar to TRACK 1
1. Press the RECORD (0) button to start recording
and play the guitar.
The REC button for TRACK 1 stops flashing and lights
steadily.
2. After you finish your performance, press the STOP
(8) button to stop recording.
The recorded file is saved in the folder of the currently
loaded song.
3. Press the REC button for TRACK 1so the REC button
becomes unlit.
Playing back the recording
1. To return to the beginning of the song (ZERO
point), press and hold the STOP (8) button and
press the REW (m) (TO ZERO) button (TO ZERO
function).
2. Press the PLAY (7) button to play back the
recording on TRACK 1.
3. Use the fader for TRACK 1 and the STEREO fader
to adjust the playback monitoring level. Use
the MONITOR LEVEL knob to adjust the final
monitoring volume.
TIP
Use the PAN knob for TRACK 1 on the Mixer screen to set
the stereo position of the track signal.
Recording a guitar to TRACK 2
Now you should listen to the rhythm guitar on TRACK 1
and play the lead guitar on TRACK 2.
Follow the procedure below to change the recording
source of the TRACK 2.
1. Press the ASSIGN button to open the Assign screen.
Record the lead guitar sound from INPUT H to TRACK 2.
By default, INPUT B is assigned to TRACK 2.
2. Use the CURSOR (5/b/g/t) buttons or press the
SELECT button for TRACK 2 and align the cursor
(frame) on the Assign screen with TRACK 2 .
Use the JOG/DATA dial or press the SOURCE button
for INPUT H to set the recording source of the TRACK 2
to H .
OL indicator

TASCAM DP-24 17
2 - Quick Guide
3. Press the HOME button to return to the Home
screen.
4. Press the REC button for TRACK 2.
Its REC indicator blinks and the unit enters record
standby.
When you play the guitar, the input level is shown by
the level meter for 2 (TRACK 2).
5. Return to the beginning of the song (ZERO point)
and start playback of the recorded rhythm guitar to
play the lead guitar part along with the recording.
Raise the fader for TRACK 2 to hear both the playback
of TRACK 1 and input guitar signal through your
headphones.
6. As necessary, use the faders for TRACK 1 and 2, PAN
knobs, STEREO fader and MONITOR LEVEL knob to
adjust the monitoring level and balance.
7. Return to the beginning of the song, press the
RECORD (0) button to start recording, and play the
lead guitar part.
The RECORD (0)button lights red, and the REC
indicator for TRACK 2 stops flashing and becomes lit.
8. After you finish your performance, press the STOP
(8) button to stop recording.
The recorded file is saved in the folder of the currently
loaded song.
9. Press the REC button for TRACK 2 so the REC button
becomes unlit.
Recording a vocal to TRACK 3
1. Press the ASSIGN button to open the Assign screen.
2. Use the CURSOR (5/b/g/t) buttons or press the
SELECT button for TRACK 3 and align the cursor
(frame) on the Assign screen with TRACK 3 .
Use the JOG/DATA dial or press the SOURCE button
for INPUT B to set the recording source of the TRACK 3
to B .
3. Press the HOME button to return to the Home
screen.
4. Press the REC button for TRACK 3.
The REC indicator blinks and the unit enters record
standby.
5. Use the TRIM knob for INPUT B to adjust the input
level suitably for the mic. Set the TRIM knob so that
the OL indicator for INPUT B does not light even
when the loudest sound to be recorded is input.
OL indicator

18 TASCAM DP-24
2 - Quick Guide
When you input a sound through an external
microphone, the input level is shown by the 3 level
meter.
When you raise the fader for TRACK 3, the STEREO
fader and the MONITOR LEVEL knob, you can hear
the sound of the mic input through the headphones.
NOTE
If the OL indicator continues to light even when the TRIM
knob is turned down, the mic signal itself is too loud.
In this case, move the mic further away from the sound
source or lower the volume of the sound source.
6. Return to the beginning of the song, start playback
of the recorded rhythm guitar and lead guitar
parts, and sing along with the recording.
You can hear the playback of the recorded guitar
parts on tracks 1 and 2 along with the vocal on your
headphones.
7. As necessary, use the faders for TRACK 1 and 2, PAN
knobs, STEREO fader and MONITOR LEVEL knob to
adjust the monitoring level and balance.
8. Return to the beginning of the song, press the
RECORD (0) button to start recording, and then
sing along with the recording.
The RECORD (0) button lights red, and the REC
indicator for TRACK 3 stops flashing and lights steadily.
9. After you finish your performance, press the STOP
(8) button to stop recording.
The recorded file is saved in the folder of the currently
loaded song.
10. Press the REC button for TRACK 3 so that the REC
button becomes unlit.
Mixing the tracks
Once you have finished your recording, you are ready to
mix down and create a master file.
1. Use the faders for TRACK 1 to 3 to adjust their
balance of levels. Use the STEREO fader to adjust
the overall level.
2. Press the MIXER button to open the Mixer screen.
Press the SELECT buttons for TRACK 1 to 3 to select
the track to be set and then use the PAN knob to set
its stereo position.
3. Set the IN point.
The interval from the IN point to the OUT point will be
used for the master file.
Play back the song, press and hold the MARK SET
button and press the IN button at the point where you
want to start the master file.
The position where you pressed the button is set as
the IN point, which is where the mix down will start.
4. Set the OUT point.
Play back the song, press and hold the MARK SET
button and press the OUT button where you want to
end the master file.
The position where you pressed the button is set as
the OUT point, which is where the mix down will end.
TIP
You can also press and hold the MARK SET button and
press the IN or OUT button to set the IN and OUT points
when playback is stopped.
5. Press the MIXDOWN/MASTERING button.
The Recorder mode switches to Mixdown mode and
the display returns to the Home screen.
NOTE
In Mixdown mode, Mixdown appears on the upper left
corner of the Home screen.
6. Press the RECORD (0) button.
The master file recording starts.
Recording stops automatically when the OUT point is
reached.

TASCAM DP-24 19
2 - Quick Guide
NOTE
The IN and OUT points must be at least 4 seconds apart.
•
If the interval is shorter than 4 seconds, the message
I/O Too Short will appear and the Recorder
mode cannot switch to Mixdown mode .
During recording, you can use the track faders to adjust
•
the levels of the tracks and the overall level.
You can also use the equalizer or reverb effect while
•
recording a master file. (See "TRACK EQ (equalizer)" on
page 68 and "Send effects" on page 69.)
You can mute unwanted tracks so that they are not
•
recorded to the master file. (See "Muting tracks" on
page 48.)
Mastering a recording
You can adjust the master file to tailor the sound to your
preference. This process is called mastering.
Checking the master file
ª
1. When Recorder mode is Mixdown mode, press
the MIXDOWN/MASTERING button to open the
MASTERING screen.
The Recorder mode switches to Mastering mode
and the display returns to the Home screen.
NOTE
In Mastering mode,
•
Mastering appears on the
upper left corner of the Home screen.
When a master file does not exist, the Recorder mode
•
cannot switch to Mastering mode.
If Recorder mode is
•
Multi Track mode , you
can press the MIXDOWN/MASTERING button to
switch to the Mixdown mode , and then press the
MIXDOWN/MASTERING button again to switch to the
Mastering mode.
2. In this mode, press the PLAY (7) button to listen to
the master file that you have created.
NOTE
Confirm that both the
•
EQ and COMP items are set
to OFF . If either is set to ON , the sound heard will be
affected by the equalizer and/or compressor. (See
"Using the mastering EQ (equalizer)" on page 71 and
"Using mastering compression" on page 72.)
In
•
Mastering mode, the STEREO fader cannot be
used to adjust the level.
Applying equalization
ª
In this example, we will use the equalizer on the
master file to reduce high frequencies and increase low
frequencies slightly.
1. When Recorder mode is Mastering mode,
press the F1 ( EQ ) button to open the EQUALIZER
screen.
2. Turn the EQ HIGH knob to the left to lower the
GAIN knob for HIGH shown on the screen. Set to
" -2dB ". This reduces the high frequencies.
3. Next turn the EQ MID knob to the left to lower the
GAIN for MID . Set to " -2dB ". This reduces the mid
frequencies.
4. Next, turn the EQ LOW knob to the right to raise
the GAIN knob for LOW shown on the screen. Set
to " +6dB ". This increase the low frequencies.
5. Press the ON/OFF button on the right of the LOW
knob to turn the equalizer on.
6. Press the F1 (g) button to return to the Mastering
screen.
7. Now you can press the PLAY (7) button to listen to
the master file with equalization.
Applying compression
ª
Use the compressor on the master file to adjust the
impact of the entire song.
1. When Recorder mode is Mastering mode, press
the F2 ( COMP ) button to open the COMP MULTI
screen.

20 TASCAM DP-24
2 - Quick Guide
2. Press the F3 ( LIBRARY ) button to open the library
list.
3. Use the JOG/DATA dial to select (blue highlight) an
item from the list and then press the F4 (t) button
to load the appropriate setting from the library.
Load the appropriate setting from the library.
COMP MULTI is displayed.
TIP
On the COMP MULTI screen, you can also change the
parameters.
4. Press the F4 ( ON ) button to turn the compressor on.
The indication OFF changes to ON .
5. Press the F1 (g) button to return to the Mastering
screen.
6. Press the PLAY (7) button on the Mastering screen
to listen to the master file with compression.
NOTE
If the EQ item is set to ON on the EQUALIZER screen,
the effect of the equalizer on the sound will also be heard.
Using normalizing
ª
Normalizing maximizes the volume of the master file.
1. When Recorder mode is Mastering mode, press
the F4 ( NORM ) button to open the NORMALIZE
screen.
2. Press the F2 ( YES ) button to perform the
normalization.
3. Once the process is completed, the display returns
to the Mastering screen.
Using the noise shaper
ª
You can use this function to reduce the quantization
distortion.
1. When Recorder mode is Mastering mode, press
the F3 ( NSD ) button to open the NOISE SHAPED
DITHERING screen.
2. Press the F4 ( ON/OFF ) button to set the noise
shaper to ON .
3. Press the F1 (g) button to return to the Mastering
screen.
Re-recording the master file
ª
Re-record the master file with equalization and
compression applied to create a new master file.
1. When Recorder mode is Mastering mode, press
the RECORD (0) button.
2. This will record over the master file and create a
new master file with equalization and compression
applied.