Tascam DP-32 Digital Portastudio User manual

D01175120A
DP-32
Digital Portastudio
OWNER'S MANUAL

2 TASCAM DP-32
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.
ªFor U.S.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.
ªFor European Customers
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-32 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.
• If you are experiencing problems with this product,
contact TEAC for a service referral. Do not use the prod-
uct until it has been repaired.
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

4 TASCAM DP-32
Safety Information
ªCAUTIONS ABOUT LASER RADIATION
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

TASCAM DP-32 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.............................................. 11
Playback and mixing........................................................11
Preparation...................................................................11
Listening to the demo song...................................12
Recording and mastering ..............................................13
Creating a new song .................................................13
Connecting and setting the input sources .......14
Setting the guitar as the recording source for
TRACK 1..........................................................................14
Adjusting and monitoring the input level ........14
Recording a guitar to TRACK 1 ..............................15
Playing back the recording.....................................15
Recording a guitar to TRACK 2 ..............................15
Recording a vocal to TRACK 3................................16
Mixing the tracks........................................................17
Mastering a recording ..............................................18
Creating an audio CD with the master file...............19
Inserting a CD..............................................................19
Writing to a CD-R/CD-RW........................................20
Ejecting a CD................................................................21
Shutting down ...................................................................21
3 – Names and Functions of Parts ...............22
Top panel .............................................................................22
Front panel ..........................................................................26
Rear panel............................................................................27
Home screen.......................................................................28
Menu structure ..................................................................29
Navigating screens...........................................................30
Function button assignments.....................30
Navigation examples ................................................30
4 – Preparation..............................................31
Inserting and removing SD cards................................31
Inserting an SD card..................................................31
Removing the card ....................................................31
About write-protected SD cards...........................31
Powering the unit .............................................................31
Starting up & shutting down ........................................32
Starting up the unit ...................................................32
Shutting down ............................................................32
Setting the date and time..............................................33
Preparing an SD card for use.........................................33
Recorder modes ................................................................33
Connecting other equipment ......................................34
Front panel ...................................................................34
Rear panel.....................................................................34
Adjusting the display.......................................................34
5 - Song Management ..................................35
Editing names.....................................................................35
Loading a song ..................................................................35
Creating a new song........................................................35
Saving a song .....................................................................36
Viewing song information .............................................37
Copying songs ...................................................................37
Erasing songs......................................................................37
Protecting songs ...............................................................38
Deleting unnecessary audio data from a song ......38
Changing a song name...................................................39
6 - Basic Recording........................................40
Selecting the input sources...........................................40
Assigning inputs................................................................40
Setting the track type...............................................40
Assigning inputs to mono tracks..........................40
Assigning inputs to stereo tracks .........................41
Assigning inputs to a stereo bus ..........................41
Checking assignments .............................................41
Canceling assignments............................................41
Using phantom power ....................................................41
Monitoring...........................................................................42
Monitor selection.......................................................42
OL indicators and level meters.....................................42
Peak hold display .......................................................43
Mixer screen settings.......................................................43
Using the input equalizer........................................43
DIGITAL TRIM setting (track only).........................44
Sending signals to internal/external effects.....44
Enabling insert effects..............................................44
Setting the stereo position.....................................44
Changing the signal phase.....................................45
Checking the fader level..........................................45
Setting levels sent to stereo buses ......................45
Solo ........................................................................................45

6 TASCAM DP-32
Table of Contents
Muting tracks......................................................................45
Rehearsing a recording...................................................45
Making the first recording .............................................46
Multitrack recording ........................................................46
Arming tracks for recording ...................................46
Adjusting track pan and level settings ...............46
Input selection and assignment ...........................47
Setting input levels....................................................47
Recording......................................................................47
Undoing an operation.....................................................47
Undo feature settings...............................................47
Undoing the last operation (single undo).........47
Undoing older operations (multiple undo)......48
7 - Recorder Functions..................................49
Punching in and out ........................................................49
Using a footswitch to punch in/out.....................49
Setting the footswitch..............................................49
Bouncing tracks.................................................................50
Using the bounce function.....................................50
Checking the bounce result...................................50
Direct location function..................................................50
Locating a specified time directly ........................51
Locating a specified bar/beat directly................51
Location marks...................................................................51
Setting a location mark............................................51
Skipping to location marks.....................................51
Deleting a location mark.........................................51
Returning to zero or the last recording position...52
Fast forwarding and rewinding....................................52
Cueing with the JOG/DATA dial ...................................52
Jogging while viewing a waveform.....................52
Jogging while listening to audio..........................52
Repeat playback ................................................................53
Setting IN/OUT points ..............................................53
Using repeat playback..............................................53
Jumpback playback..........................................................53
Previewing cue points.....................................................54
Automatic punching in and out..................................54
Setting punch-in/out points ..................................54
Checking punch-in/out points..............................55
Rehearsing with automatic punching................55
Recording with automatic punching..................55
Checking takes............................................................55
Virtual tracks .......................................................................56
Recording to virtual tracks......................................56
Assigning virtual tracks............................................56
8 - Track Editing ............................................57
Overview of track editing...............................................57
Editing points ..............................................................57
Basic editing procedures.........................................57
Explanation of items .................................................57
COPY/PASTE ........................................................................58
COPY/INSERT ......................................................................58
MOVE/PASTE.......................................................................59
MOVE/INSERT .....................................................................59
OPEN (Insert Silence) .......................................................59
CUT (Remove Part)............................................................59
SILENCE (Erase Part) .........................................................60
CLONE TRACK (duplicate track)....................................60
CLEAN OUT (delete track) ..............................................60
9 - Using Internal Effects ..............................61
Dynamic effects.................................................................61
Inserting a dynamic effect ......................................61
Adjusting dynamic effects ......................................61
Guitar effects ......................................................................62
Inserting a guitar effect............................................62
Adjusting guitar effects............................................62
Loading guitar effect settings ...............................62
Saving guitar effects in the library.......................62
Send effects.........................................................................63
Using send effects......................................................63
Adjusting send effects..............................................63
Loading send effect settings..................................63
Saving send effects in the library .........................63
10 - Mixing Down and Mastering Songs .....64
Mixing down tracks..........................................................64
Levels and balance ....................................................64
Fader group..................................................................64
Stereo position (panning).......................................64
Track equalizer ............................................................64
Send effects..................................................................65
Creating a master file.......................................................65
Setting the start and end points...........................65
Creating a master file................................................65
Exiting Mixdown mode............................................66
Checking the master file.................................................66
Ending master file checking...................................66
Using the mastering tools..............................................66
Mastering procedures ..............................................67
Using the mastering equalizer ..............................67
Using mastering compression...............................68
Using normalize..........................................................69
Checking the noise shaper (noise shaped
dithering) ......................................................................69
Exiting Mastering mode ..........................................69

TASCAM DP-32 7
Table of Contents
11 - Various Other Functions........................70
Metronome .........................................................................70
MIDI Sync .............................................................................70
MIDI remote control.........................................................71
Tuner function....................................................................71
PREFERENCE menu settings..........................................72
Setting automatic power saving ..........................72
Setting automatic monitoring...............................72
Setting the song name format..............................72
Restoring the initial preference settings ..................73
Viewing information ........................................................73
12 - SD Card Management............................74
Quick formatting an SD card.........................................74
Full formatting an SD card.............................................75
13 - Exchanging Data with a Computer.......76
Operating system requirements..................................76
Connecting to a computer ............................................76
Disconnecting .............................................................77
Track import and export.................................................78
Importing tracks.........................................................78
Exporting tracks..........................................................79
Deleting files from the AudioDepot folder..............79
14 - Using CDs................................................80
Using the CD drive............................................................80
Preparations before using CDs with this unit ..80
Compatible CD types................................................80
Loading and ejecting CDs..............................................80
Loading a CD................................................................81
Ejecting a CD................................................................81
Forcing disc ejection .................................................82
Playing back an audio CD ..............................................82
Creating an audio CD ......................................................82
Using Disc At Once ....................................................83
Using Track At Once ..................................................84
Using LIVE WRITER .....................................................85
Finalizing a CD.............................................................86
Importing songs from audio CDs................................86
Erasing a CD-RW................................................................87
Media Compatibility Table.............................................87
15 – Troubleshooting....................................88
16 – Messages ...............................................89
General messages.............................................................89
CD mode messages..........................................................91
CD-related error messages............................................92
17 – Specifications ........................................93
Ratings ..................................................................................93
Input/output ratings........................................................93
Analog audio input/output ratings.....................93
Control input/output ratings.................................93
Audio performance..........................................................93
Operating requirements.................................................93
Dimensional drawings ....................................................94
General..................................................................................94
Block diagram.....................................................................95
Level diagram.....................................................................96
18 – Appendix ...............................................97
MIDI Control Change message ....................................97
Mixer control change parameters........................97
MIDI Program Change message..................................98
Dynamic effects ..........................................................98
Preset libraries of the send effects.......................98
Preset libraries of the guitar effects.....................98
MIDI Implementation Chart ...................................99
Bit-map array of MMC commands........................... 100

8 TASCAM DP-32
1 – Introduction
Thank you very much for purchasing the TASCAM DP-32
Digital Multitrack Recorder.
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 32 tracks simultaneously.
Multiple tracks can be mixed down to a stereo master file
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
by 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.
• 32-track Digital Multitrack Recorder uses SD cards as
recording media and includes a CD drive
• Supports SDHC standard for high-capacity SD cards of
up to 32GB
• Multitrack recorder functions include simultaneous
8-track recording and 32-track playback (44.1/48kHz,
16/24-bit)
• Stereo/mono track type selection function makes
changing track allocation easy
• 20 track faders and 1 master fader for level adjustment
(all 45 mm)
• Each track has independent SELECT and REC buttons
• +48V phantom power supported mic input
• 8 balanced mic/line inputs (XLR/TRS combo jacks)
• INPUT H supports high-impedance guitar input (6.3mm
(1/4") phone jack)
• Large TFT color display with excellent visibility (3.5-inch)
• Independent 3-band equalizers for each input and
playback track
• Mixing down to a dedicated master file possible
• Mastering effects that can be used during mix downs
of master files
• Reverb and various other effects that can be adjusted
independently for each playback track
• Automatic punch in/out
• Track bouncing
• COPY INSERT, COPY PASTE, MOVE INSERT, MOVE PASTE,
OPEN, CUT, SILENCE, CLONE TRACK and CLEAN OUT
track editing functions
• Undo and redo functions, including 10-level history
setting option
• Location to marks
• Tuner and metronome
• 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 by USB 2.0
• Punch in/out and other functions can be assigned to
and controlled by a TASCAM RC-3F footswitch (sold
separately)
Items included with the product
The DP-32 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 adaptor (TASCAM PS-1225L) ............................................ 1
• Power cord for AC adaptor...................................................... 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 adaptor or power cord other than
the supplied TASCAM PS-1225L AC adaptor and AC
adaptor power cord. Moreover, do not use the supplied
AC adaptor and AC adaptor 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 is sometimes called audio CD format.
Moreover, a CD recorded with audio CD format tracks is
sometimes called 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-32 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 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-32
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-32 11
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, an SD card with the
demo song on it is already inserted 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 adaptor (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 adaptor cord in place. Wrap
the cord around this hook to prevent it from being
disconnected during use.
CAUTION
Never use any AC adaptor or power cord other than the
supplied TASCAM PS-1225L AC adaptor and its power
cord. Use of a different adaptor or cord could cause
malfunction, fire or electric shock.
3. Connect headphones to the PHONES jack on the
front panel.
ヘッドホン
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 opens on
the display.
Start-up screen
Home screen
AC outlet
Headphones
DC plug

12 TASCAM DP-32
2 - Quick Guide
CAUTION
• Do not remove or insert an SD card when the power
is ON. Always turn the power off (put in standby)
before removing or inserting an SD card.
• When the power is ON, do not disconnect the power
cord or otherwise interrupt the power to the unit.
Doing so will cause all settings made since the last
time you saved to be lost. If the power is interrupted
while an SD card is being accessed, all recorded songs
and data on the card could be damaged beyond
recovery.
• Before turning the power ON, minimize the
headphones volume and the volume on any
monitoring system connected to this unit.
TIP
By connecting an amplifier or powered speakers 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 (highlight green) SONG , and then
press the F4 (t) button.
The
SONG LIST screen opens.
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 menu list.
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 window closes, but
the
SONG LIST screen remains open.
7. Press the HOME button to return to the Home
screen.
8. Press the PLAY (7) button, and raise the levels of
the track and STEREO faders and the MONITOR
LEVEL knob to listen to the demo song.
The STEREO fader adjusts the overall volume of the
mixer output. When the STEREO fader is at 0dB the
overall level is neither increased nor decreased.
Use the track 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 a SOURCE buttons to select an input (A-H) or
press a SELECT button to select a track to be set.
Then use the PAN knob to set the stereo position
of that input or track. Repeat for other inputs and
tracks.

TASCAM DP-32 13
2 - Quick Guide
TIP
• Press the STOP (8) and REW (m) buttons at the
same time to use the TO ZERO function to return to the
beginning of the song (ZERO point).
• If you press the wrong button and open a different screen,
you can 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 electric guitars to
INPUT H and external microphones to INPUT B.
In the following example, we will explain how to record
an electric guitar rhythm part to track 1 and a lead guitar
part to track 2. Then, we will use an 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 headphones or other monitoring equipment,
started the unit and inserted an 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 (highlight green) SONG , and then
press the F4 (t) button.
The
SONG LIST screen opens.
3. Press the F4 (t) button to open the menu list 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 if necessary in
the
Name item. (See "Editing names" on page 35.)
6. Use the CURSOR (5/b) buttons to move the
cursor (highlighted blue) to select
Bit (bit rate) or
Hz (sampling frequency), and then use the JOG/
DATA dial to set it as desired.
NOTE
Standard audio CDs are 16-bit, 44.1kHz format.
If you make an audio CD using songs with different setting
combinations, they will automatically be converted to 16-
bit, 44.1kHz format. The master file itself, however, will not be
converted (the original settings are retained).
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.

14 TASCAM DP-32
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 on the rear panel to
GUITAR.
The GUITAR indicator lights.
Now the guitar is 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 tracks 4 to 8 ( D to H ).
(See "Assigning inputs" on page 40.)
Since initially INPUT H is set only as the recording source
for TRACK 8, you must change the TRACK 1 recording
source.
Follow these procedures to change the recording source
of 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 to move 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.
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.
Guitar
GUITAR indicator

TASCAM DP-32 15
2 - Quick Guide
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.
OL indicator
When you play the guitar, level meter 1 (TRACK 1)
shows the input level on the display.
When you raise the fader for TRACK 1, the STEREO
fader and the MONITOR LEVEL knob, you will be able
hear the sound of the guitar through the headphones
(or monitoring system), and the L and R level meters
will move.
NOTE
• You can use the PAN knob for TRACK 1 on the Mixer screen
to set the stereo position for monitoring.
• If the REC button for TRACK 1 is not lit, you will not be able
to 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 when recording.
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.
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
Next, you can listen to the rhythm guitar on TRACK 1 as
you play the lead guitar part and record it on TRACK 2.
Follow these procedures to change the recording source
of TRACK 2.
1. Press the ASSIGN button to open the Assign screen.
We want to record the lead guitar sound from INPUT
H to TRACK 2, but INPUT B is assigned to TRACK 2 by
default.
2. Use the CURSOR (5/b/g/t) buttons or press
the SELECT button for TRACK 2 to move the cursor
(frame) on the Assign screen to
TRACK 2 .
Use the JOG/DATA dial or press the SOURCE button
for INPUT H to set the TRACK 2 recording source to
H .
3. Press the HOME button to return to the Home
screen.

16 TASCAM DP-32
2 - Quick Guide
4. Press the REC button for TRACK 2.
Its REC indicator blinks and the unit enters recording
standby.
When you play the guitar, the input level is shown by
the
2 level meter (TRACK 2).
5. Return to the beginning of the song (ZERO point)
and start playback of the recorded rhythm guitar
to practice the lead guitar part along with the
recording.
Raise the fader for TRACK 2 to hear the input guitar
signal along with the TRACK 1 playback signal through
your headphones or monitoring system.
6. As necessary, use the TRACK 1, 2 and STEREO
faders and MONITOR LEVEL knob to adjust the
monitoring level and balance and the PAN knob to
adjust the stereo positions.
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 stays lit while
recording.
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 to move the cursor
(frame) on the Assign screen to TRACK 3 .
Use the JOG/DATA dial or press the SOURCE button
for INPUT B to set the TRACK 3 recording source 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 recording
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
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 and lead guitar parts, and
practice singing along with the recording.

TASCAM DP-32 17
2 - Quick Guide
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 TRACK 1, 2, 3 and STEREO
faders and the MONITOR LEVEL knob to adjust the
monitoring level and balance and the PAN knob to
adjust the stereo positions.
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 stays lit while
recording.
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 TRACKS 1 to 3 to balance their
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 TRACKS 1 to 3 to select
the track to be adjusted 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 press 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 press 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 or OUT point when
playback is stopped.
5. Press the MIXDOWN/MASTERING button.
The recorder switches to
Mixdown mode and the
display returns to the Home screen.
NOTE
When in Mixdown mode, Mixdown appears in the upper
left of the Home screen.
6. Press the RECORD (0) button.
Master file recording starts.
Recording stops automatically when the OUT point is
reached.
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 "Send effects" on page 65 and
"Track equalizer" on page 64)
• You can mute unwanted tracks so that they are not
recorded to the master file. (See "Muting tracks" on page
45.)

18 TASCAM DP-32
2 - Quick Guide
Mastering a recording
You can adjust the sound or the master file to your liking.
This process is called mastering.
ªChecking the master file
1. When in Mixdown mode, press the MIXDOWN/
MASTERING button to open the MASTERING
screen.
The recorder switches to
Mastering mode and the
display returns to the Home screen.
NOTE
• When in Mastering mode,
Mastering appears on the
upper left corner of the Home screen.
• If a master file does not exist, the recorder mode cannot
switch to
Mastering mode.
• If the recorder is in
Multi Track mode, press the
MIXDOWN/MASTERING button to switch to Mixdown
mode, and then press the MIXDOWN/MASTERING
button again to switch to 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 equalizer" on page 67 and "Using mastering
compression" on page 68.)
• In
Mastering mode, the STEREO fader cannot be
used to adjust the level.
ªApplying equalization
In this example, we will use the equalizer on the
master file to reduce high frequencies and increase low
frequencies slightly.
1. When in
Mastering mode, press the F1 ( EQ )
button to open the EQUALIZER screen.
2. Turn the EQ HIGH GAIN knob left to lower the
HIGH GAIN knob on the screen to " -2dB ". This
reduces the high frequencies.
3. Next turn the EQ MID GAIN knob left to lower
the
MID GAIN to " -2dB ". This reduces the mid
frequencies.
4. Next, turn the EQ LOW GAIN knob right to raise
the
LOW GAIN knob on the screen to " +6dB ". This
increase the low frequencies.
5. Press the ON/OFF button to the right of the LOW
knobs to turn the equalizer ON.
6. Press the F1 (g) button to return to the Mastering
screen.
7. Press the PLAY (7) button to listen to the master
file with equalization.
ªApplying compression
Use the compressor on the master file to adjust the
dynamics and loudness of the entire song.
1. When in
Mastering mode, press the F2 ( COMP )
button to open the COMP MULTI screen.

TASCAM DP-32 19
2 - Quick Guide
2. Press the F3 ( LIBRARY ) button to open the library
list.
3. Use the JOG/DATA dial to select (highlight blue) an
item in the list and then press the F4 (t) button to
load a suitable setting from the library.
The library list closes.
TIP
You can also adjust the parameters on the COMP MULTI
screen using the CURSOR keys and JOG/DATA dial. (See
"Using mastering compression" on page 68.)
4. Press the F4 (
ON ) button to turn the compressor on.
The
OFF icon 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.
ªNormalizing
Normalizing maximizes the volume of the master file
without changing the dynamic range.
1. When in
Mastering mode, press the F4 ( NORM )
button to open the NORMALIZE screen.
2. Press the F2 ( YES ) button to perform the
normalization.
3. Press the F1 (g) button to return to the Mastering
screen.
ªUsing the noise shaper
Use this function to reduce quantization distortion.
1. When in
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.
ªRe-recording the master file
Re-record the master file with equalization and
compression applied to create a new master file.
1. When in
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.
Creating an audio CD with the
master file
You can use a master file that you have created to make
an audio CD that can be played back by an ordinary CD
player, for example.
Inserting a CD
1. When in Multi Track mode, press the CD button
to open the CD menu.
CAUTION
• When in a mode other than
Multi Track mode,
you cannot open the CD menu.
In Mixdown or Mastering mode, press the
MIXDOWN/MASTERING button repeatedly until you
return to Multi Track mode.
In Bounce mode, press the BOUNCE button to
switch to Multi Track mode.

20 TASCAM DP-32
2 - Quick Guide
• The disc tray will not open when only the Home
screen or MENU screen is open. Open the disc tray
when the CD menu or CD PLAY/IMPORT screen is
open.
2. Press the F3 (-) button or the disc tray eject
button on the front panel to open the tray slightly.
Pull the tray out until it opens completely as shown
below.
3. Hold the edge of the disc with the label side up and
put it into the tray so that its central hole is on the
round protrusion in the center of the tray, and then
press the disc gently near the center to mount it on
the tray.
NOTE
The disc will click into place and be level with the tray.
4. Push the tray to close it. The tray will click when
shut.
Writing to a CD-R/CD-RW
When writing to a CD-R/CD-RW, the procedure differs
between when you are choosing multiple master files and
when you are choosing only one file.
In this example, we will select multiple master files to
create a CD that can be played in ordinary CD players.
For details about writing to a CD-R/CD-RW, see "Creating
an audio CD" on page 82.
1. When in
Multi Track mode, press the CD button
to open the CD menu.
2. Place a blank CD (unused CD-R/CD-RW disc or a
completely erased CD-RW) on the disc tray.
3. Use the JOG/DATA to select
MASTER WRITE and
then press the F4 (t) button.
This opens the MASTER WRITE screen and shows a
list of songs that have been recorded as master files.
4. Use the JOG/DATA dial to select (highlight blue) a
song that you want to write to the CD-R/CD-RW,
and then press the F2 (4) button.
A check mark 4appears in the check box next to the
song.
NOTE
To remove the check mark 4from a check box, press the
F2 (4)button again while the song with the 4is selected
(highlighted blue).
5. Repeat step 4 above as necessary.
6. When you select all songs to be written, press the
F4 (t) button to open the
WRITE SONG LIST
screen.
On this screen, you can change the order that the
master files will be written to the CD-R/CD-RW and set
the gaps between them. (For details about changing