Tascam dr-44wl User manual

D01238020C
DR-44WL
Linear PCM Recorder
REFERENCE MANUAL

2TASCAM DR-44WL
Contents
1 – Introduction ....................................................................... 4
Features .....................................................................................................4
Conventions used in this manual.....................................................4
About SD cards........................................................................................5
Precautions.........................................................................................5
2 – Names and functions of parts........................................... 6
Top panel...................................................................................................6
Front panel ...............................................................................................7
Left side panel .........................................................................................7
Right side panel ......................................................................................7
Bottom panel...........................................................................................8
Home Screen............................................................................................8
Recording Screen ...................................................................................9
Menu item list....................................................................................... 10
Using menus ......................................................................................... 11
Basic operations................................................................................... 11
3 – Preparation....................................................................... 12
Powering the unit................................................................................ 12
Power sources................................................................................. 12
Using AA size batteries................................................................ 12
Using an AC adapter .................................................................... 12
Changing the outlet plug .......................................................... 12
Using an external battery pack (sold separately) .............. 13
Using USB bus power .................................................................. 13
Turning the power on and off (standby mode)........................ 13
Starting up the unit...................................................................... 13
Shutting down (standby mode) .............................................. 14
Resume function ........................................................................... 14
Setting the date/time ........................................................................ 14
Inserting and removing SD cards.................................................. 14
Inserting the SD card ................................................................... 14
Removing the card ....................................................................... 14
SD card write protection switches .......................................... 15
Preparing an SD card for use........................................................... 15
Turning the built-in speaker on/off .............................................. 15
Connecting a monitor device......................................................... 15
Adjusting the playback volume..................................................... 16
Input settings........................................................................................ 16
Recording with the built-in microphone.............................. 16
Recording with an external microphone (EXT MIC IN).... 16
Recording from an external device (LINE IN) ...................... 16
Selecting Operation Mode............................................................... 17
Setting a mode............................................................................... 17
Checking mode.............................................................................. 17
Attaching the grip............................................................................... 17
Attaching the shoe mount adapter.............................................. 17
4 – Recording ......................................................................... 18
Overview of recording modes........................................................ 18
Set where to save the file ................................................................. 18
Select the file format and sampling frequency (4CH mode
only) ......................................................................................................... 18
Adjusting the input level.................................................................. 19
Set the input gain................................................................................ 19
Using phantom power ................................................................ 19
Settings in the “INPUT SETTING” screen...................................... 20
Setting channel links (4 CH mode only)................................ 21
Set the track input (MTR mode only) ..................................... 21
DELAY setting ................................................................................. 22
Set the low-cut filter..................................................................... 22
Using the level control function .............................................. 23
Record in 4 CH mode (4 CH mode only) ..................................... 23
Record 4 channels......................................................................... 23
File names when recording in 4-channel ............................. 23
Record in MTR mode (MTR mode only)....................................... 24
Switch files during recording (track increment,
available in 4 CH mode only) .......................................................... 24
Manual track increment during recording........................... 24
Automatic track increment at specified time...................... 24
Recording automatically (AUTO REC) (4 CH mode only)....... 25
Start recording a moment before pressing RECORD
(PRE REC, 4CH mode only) ............................................................... 25
Self-timer function.............................................................................. 26
Simultaneously recording two files with different input
levels/formats (DUAL REC, 4CH only)........................................... 26
Enabling dual recording............................................................. 26
Starting dual recording............................................................... 27
Dual recording file names.......................................................... 27
Create cue marks during recording.............................................. 27
Manual cue marking during recording ................................. 27
Add cue marks automatically during recording ................ 28
Moving to the cue mark position............................................ 28
Use MS microphone........................................................................... 29
Punching in/out (MTR mode only)................................................ 29
Punching in/out manually......................................................... 29
Punching in/out automatically (AUTO PUNCH) ....................... 29
Recording duration............................................................................. 31
5 – Operating Files and Folders (4 CH Mode Only).............. 32
Screen navigation ............................................................................... 32
Icons on the BROWSE screen .......................................................... 32
File operations...................................................................................... 32
Folder operations................................................................................ 33
Creating a new folder ........................................................................ 33
6 – Managing Songs (MTR Mode only)................................. 34
Song Operation.................................................................................... 34
Loading Songs...................................................................................... 34
Creating a New Song ......................................................................... 35
Changing the Song Name (V1.10 supported) .......................... 35
Deleting songs ..................................................................................... 36
7 – Playback ........................................................................... 37
Playback.................................................................................................. 37
Pausing.............................................................................................. 37
Stopping........................................................................................... 37
Fast-rewinding and fast-forwarding (search)...................... 37
Moving the playback position.................................................. 37
Selecting a playback file (skip) ....................................................... 37
Special Playback Control Functions.............................................. 37
Playback Control Screen............................................................. 37
Repeated Playback of Selection (Loop Playback).............. 38
Clearing IN and OUT points only............................................. 38
Changing the playback speed (VSA)...................................... 38
Key control playback.................................................................... 39
8 – QUICK Button Operation................................................. 40
QUICK button overview.................................................................... 40
Quick menu operation ...................................................................... 40
Closing the Quick menu ............................................................. 41
Deleting the selected file (Quick Delete, only when in 4CH
mode) ...................................................................................................... 42
Dividing the selected file (4CH mode only)............................... 42
Dividing the selected file manually(DIVIDE) ....................... 42
Dividing the selected file automatically (AUTO DIVIDE). 43
Deleting track input (MTR mode only)........................................ 43

TASCAM DR-44WL 3
Contents
Track bounce (MTR mode only) ..................................................... 44
Bouncing tracks ............................................................................. 44
Confirming the results of bouncing....................................... 44
Mixing down......................................................................................... 45
Loading master tracks (MTR mode only) ................................... 45
9 – Mixer ................................................................................. 46
Setting the mixer................................................................................. 46
10 – Useful functions............................................................. 47
Tuner function (compatible with V1.10)..................................... 47
Chromatic tuner............................................................................. 47
Oscillator mode.............................................................................. 47
Metronome function (compatible with V1.10)......................... 48
Reverb function ................................................................................... 48
Setting the reverb function....................................................... 48
Reverb type pre-set list ............................................................... 49
11 – Connecting with a computer ........................................ 50
Transferring files to a computer..................................................... 50
Transferring files from a computer ............................................... 50
Disconnecting the unit from a computer................................... 50
12 – Using Wi-Fi...................................................................... 51
Connect the unit and smart phone via Wi-Fi ............................ 51
How to download and install the exclusive application
(TASCAM DR CONTROL).............................................................. 51
Connecting the DR-44WL to a smart phone via Wi-Fi for
the first time.................................................................................... 51
Connecting the DR-44WL to a smart phone via Wi-Fi
(from second time onward)....................................................... 52
Using a smart phone to remote control the DR-44WL.... 53
File transfer from the DR-44WL to a smart phone............. 53
Connecting this unit to a computer by Wi-Fi ............................ 53
Downloading and installing the TASCAM DR FILE
TRANSFER software...................................................................... 53
Connecting this unit to a computer by Wi-Fi for the first
time .................................................................................................... 53
Connecting this unit to a computer by Wi-Fi after the first
time .......................................................................................................... 54
Transferring files from the unit to a computer ................... 54
Changing password ........................................................................... 54
13 – Settings and Information.............................................. 55
View information (INFORMATION)................................................ 55
File information page (PROJECT) (4 CH mode only) ........ 55
Card and system information page (CARD/SYSTEM) ....... 55
Configuration (SYSTEM).................................................................... 56
Setting the file name type ......................................................... 56
Restoring the DR-44WL to factory settings ......................... 56
Completely format a SD card.................................................... 56
Power and display settings (POWER/DISPLAY) ........................ 57
Auto power save function setting........................................... 57
Battery type settings.................................................................... 57
Set the voltage value of the phantom power supply ...... 57
Backlight setting............................................................................ 57
Adjusting the display contrast ................................................. 57
Set the peak hold .......................................................................... 57
14 – Messages ........................................................................ 58
15 – Troubleshooting ............................................................ 59
16 – Specifications................................................................. 60
Rating ...................................................................................................... 60
Input/output ratings.......................................................................... 60
Analog audio input and output ratings................................ 60
Control input/output ratings.................................................... 60
Audio performance ............................................................................ 60
Requirements for connected computers ................................... 60
Wi-Fi ......................................................................................................... 60
General.................................................................................................... 61
Dimensional drawings....................................................................... 61

4TASCAM DR-44WL
1 – Introduction
Features
• Compact audio recorder that uses SD/SDHC/SDXC cards as
recording media
• Built-in with high performance directional stereo
microphones in XY positions
• Mid-side decoding function can be used with MS
microphones
• Simultaneous recording of up to four channels is possible
• Built-in four-track MTR feature
• Built-in Wi-Fi feature to use smartphone as remote control,
transfer files from the PCM recorder, and play back audio
• 44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit, linear PCM (WAV format)
recording possible
• Compatible with the BWF format
• 32–320 kbps MP3 format recording possible (compatible
with ID3 tag v2.4)
• The dual recording feature allows two files to be recorded
simultaneously at different levels
• Supports dual format recording (WAV/MP3)
• Built-in 0.3 W monaural output monitor speaker
• Built-in effector (reverb) function can be used during
recording and playback
• Auto-record function starts recording automatically when a
set sound input level is detected
• Track incrementing function allows you to update a file at
a preset time or at desired position without interrupting
recording
• Pre-recording (PRE REC) function allows the unit to record
the 2 seconds of sound before recording is activated
• Peak reduction function is available to reduce the level
automatically in case of excessively large input
• Limiter function is available to reduce the level
automatically in case of excessively large input
• Low-cut filter conveniently reduces low-frequency noise
• VSA function can change the playback speed in the range
from 0.5 to 2.0 times (in 0.1 increments) the normal speed
without changing pitch
• IN-OUT loop playback functions
This product has a Blackfin® 16/32-bit embedded processor
made by Analog Devices, Inc. This processor controls digital
signal processing.
Inclusion of this Blackfin® processor in the product increases
its performance and reduces its power consumption.
Conventions used in this manual
In this manual, we use the following conventions:
• When we refer to buttons, connectors and other parts of
this unit and other equipment, we use a bold font like this:
MENU button.
• When we show messages, for example, that appears on the
unit’s display, the typeface looks like this: REPEAT.
• Highlighted area on the DR-44WL display is indicated as a
“cursor”.
• SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards are referred to as“SD cards”.
• Words that appear on the computer display are shown in
quotation marks like this: “DR-44WL”
• The selected folder is indicated as the“current folder”.
• A computer or a smartphone that is connected with the
DR-44WL via Wi-Fi is referred to as the“Wi-Fi device”.
• Additional information is provided as “tips", “notes", and
“caution” as required.
TIPS
These are tips about how to use the unit.
NOTE
These provide additional explanations and describe special
cases.
CAUTION
Failure to follow these instructions could result in injury,
damage to equipment or lost recording data, for example.

TASCAM DR-44WL 5
1 – Introduction
About SD cards
This unit uses SD cards for recording and playback.
You can use 64 MB to 2 GB SD cards, 4 GB to 32 GB SDHC cards,
and 48 GB to 128 GB SDXC cards with this unit.
A list of SD cards that have been confirmed for use with this unit
can be found on the TEAC Global Site (http://teac-global.com)
or contact the TASCAM customer support service.
Precautions
SD cards are delicate media. Please refer to the below when
using memory cards to prevent memory and/or card damage:
• Do not leave a memory card in extremely hot or cold places
• Do not leave a memory card in extremely humid places
• Do not spill any liquids on the memory card
• Do not bend the card or subject it to any excessive force
• Do not subject the card to any physical shock
• Do not remove the card while the unit is accessing data, or
recording, playing, or making data transfer
• Always store the memory card in a case

6TASCAM DR-44WL
2 – Names and functions of parts
Top panel
1Built-in stereo microphone (INT R/INT L)
This is an XY directional stereo electret condenser micro-
phone.
On this unit, the mic that appears behind and on the left in
the illustration is called INT R and the mic in front on the
right is called INT L.
2PEAK indicator
Lights (red) when the input volume is too high (−2 dB).
3Display
Displays a variety of information.
4TRACK/INPUT button
During recording standby (4 CH mode) or when stopped
(MTR mode), press this button to select the channel (track)
to record.
When the INPUT LEVEL setting screen pops up, press
this button to select the channel (track) for adjusting the
input level.
When the INPUT SETTING screen is open, press
these buttons to show channels (tracks) to set.
58/HOME button
If you want to pause, press the button again.
Press this button during pause time to return to the
beginning of the file.
Press this button during recording or recording standby to
cause the recording to stop.
To return to the Home screen, press this button in any screen
display. Use this button to select “NO”to a confirmation
message.
6.button
During playback or when stopped in the middle of a file,
press to return to the beginning of the file.
When the IN and OUT points are set between the current
position and the end of the playback file, pressing this
button skips to those points.
If you press this button when a track is stopped at its
beginning, the unit will skip to the beginning of the previous
track.
Press and hold this button to search backwards.
Press this button while pressing and holding the ENTER/
MARK button to return to the previous mark.
On the setting screens, use this button to move the cursor
left.
On the BROWSE screen, press this button to move up a
level.
77/9button
To start playback in the Home screen, press this button while
in stop mode.
If you want to pause, press the button again.
When a file or folder is selected on the BROWSE screen,
press this button to return to the Home screen and play the
file or the first file in the folder from the beginning.
8MENU button
When the Home screen is displayed, press this button to
open the MENU screen.
Press this button to return to the MENU screen from the
various setting screens.
When the MENU screen is open, press this button to return
to the Home screen.
9MTR indicator
Lights up when the operation mode is in MTR mode.
0MIXER button
Press this button to open the MIXER screen.
When the MIXER screen is open, press this button to
return to the Home screen.
qRECORD button/RECORD indicator
4CH mode:
When stopped, press this button to put the unit into
recording standby. The RECORD indicator will start to
blink.
When in standby, press this button to start recording. The
RECORD indicator lights when recording.
Press when recording to pause recording. The RECORD
indicator will start to blink.
MTR mode:
When stopped or playing back, press this button to start
recording. The RECORD indicator lights when recording.
When recording, this button does not function.
w/Fast forward button
Press this button in playback or stop mode to skip to the
next track.
When the IN and OUT points are set between the current
position and the end of the playback file, pressing this
button skips to those points.
Press and hold this button for fast forward search.
On the setting screens, use this button to move the cursor
right.
Press this button while pressing and holding the ENTER/
MARK button to move forward to the next mark.
On the BROWSE screen, press this button to move down
a level. If a file is selected, the file is loaded and the unit
returns to the Home screen.
eINPUT button
Press this button to open the INPUT SETTING screen.
When the INPUT SETTING screen is open, press this
button to return to the Home screen.
rENTER/MARK button
Use this button to confirm selections or select “YES” to a
confirmation message.
Press this button during recording to add a mark manually.
(See “Manual cue marking during recording”on page 27.)
While pressing and holding this button during playback,
press the .button to return to the previous mark or

TASCAM DR-44WL 7
2 – Names and functions of parts
press the /button to move forward to the next mark.
(See “Moving to the cue mark position”on page 28.)
When the PLAY FUNCTION screen is open, use this
button to set the IN (start) and OUT (end) points of the
interval that you want to set for loop playback. When the IN
(start) and OUT (end) points are already set, press this button
to clear the IN and OUT points.
tQUICK button
When the Home screen, PLAY FUNCTION screen,
BROWSE screen or SONG screen is open, press this
button to pop up the quick menu. (See “QUICK button
overview”on page 40.)
yWheel
This is used to select items or change value on setting
screens. Also used to change the playback position in a file.
Front panel
uWi-Fi indicator
Indicates the status of wireless LAN.
Lights out: OFF
Blinks: Waiting to be connected
Lights up: Operable from the exclusive application
(TASCAM DR CONTROL)
iEXT MIC/LINE IN 1/L / 2/R jack (XLR/TRS)
These are balanced analog XLR/TRS combo jacks for micro-
phone and line level inputs.
XLR (1: GND, 2: HOT, 3: COLD)
TRS (Tip: HOT, Ring: COLD, Sleeve: GND)
CAUTION
• Confirm that phantom power is OFF before connecting
a line level device to these EXT MIC/LINE IN jacks. If you
connect a line level device while phantom power is being
supplied, that device and this unit could be damaged.
• When connecting to or disconnecting a condenser micro-
phone from the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack, confirm that the
phantom power for that jack is OFF. If you connect or
disconnect a microphone while phantom power is being
supplied, that microphone and this unit could be damaged.
• Do not connect an unbalanced dynamic microphone to
an XLR connector when phantom power is being supplied.
Doing so could damage that microphone and this unit.
Left side panel
oSD card slot
Insert or remove a SD card.
pHOLD/ switch
To turn the power on/off, slide and hold the switch towards
the icon.
When you slide the switch towards the HOLD side, all the
functions of the buttons are locked.
a/LINE OUT jack
A headphone or a line input jack of an external device (via
stereo mini-jack cable) can be connected to this jack.
sOUTPUT LEVEL button
These buttons adjust the output sound level of the built-in
speaker or the /LINE OUT jack.
During adjustment, a volume indicator will be displayed in a
pull-up window.
dWi-Fi button
Use this button to turn on/off the Wi-Fi function.
Right side panel
fEXT IN switch
Set the gain for the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack and whether
phantom power is on or off.
CAUTION
• Confirm that phantom power is OFF before connecting a
line-level device to the EXT MIC/LINE IN connector. If you
connect a line-level device while phantom power is being
supplied, that device and this unit could be damaged.
• Do not connect or disconnect mics when the phantom
power switch is set to ON. Doing so could cause a loud noise
and might damage this unit and connected equipment.
• Turn phantom power ON only when using a condenser
microphone that requires phantom power. Turning
phantom power on when a dynamic mic or other mic that
does not require it is connected could damage this unit and
connected equipment.
• When using condenser mics that require phantom power
and dynamic mics together, be sure to use balanced
dynamic mics. Unbalanced dynamic mics cannot be used
when phantom power is enabled.
• Supplying phantom power to some ribbon mics could break
them. If you are unsure, do not supply phantom power to a
ribbon mic.
• When using USB bus power, the unit might not be able to
supply phantom power depending on the computer. If this
occurs, use the included AC adapter (GPE053B).
• Some condenser microphones will not operate when
phantom power is set to +24V.
• Do not connect or disconnect the AC adapter when using
phantom power. Doing so could cause the unit to turn off
even when batteries are installed in it. This can result in
recording data being damaged or lost.

8TASCAM DR-44WL
2 – Names and functions of parts
gINPUT LEVEL button
Press this button to show the INPUT LEVEL setting
screen on the display as a pull-down menu.
When the INPUT LEVEL setting screen is shown, press
this button to close the pull-down menu.
hINPUT LEVEL volume
When the INPUT LEVEL setting screen is shown, use
this to adjust the input level.
jUSB port
Use the supplied USB cable to connect the DR-44WL with a
computer. (See “11 – Connecting with a computer”on page
50.)
Power can be supplied through the USB cable included
within this unit package or the dedicated AC adapter
(GPE053B) supplied with this unit.
CAUTION
Connect the DR-44WL directly be connected directly with
the computer, not through a USB hub.
Bottom panel
kBuilt-in mono speaker
Use this built-in speaker to listen to recordings.
No sound will play when:
oIn recording standby
oHeadphone is connected
oIn recording mode
oSpeaker output setting is turned off
lTripod attachment screw-hole (1/4 inch)
A tripod can be attached to the DR-44WL.
CAUTION
• Ensure the tripod or microphone stand screws are securely
fastened to prevent the unit from falling off.
• When attaching this unit to a tripod or microphone stand,
ensure to place it on a level surface.
• Some tripods have different screw specifications that make
direct connection impossible. Use a commercially-available
adapter with such tripods.
;Battery compartment cover
zStrap holder
A strap can be attached to this holder.
xBattery compartment
Insert four AA batteries into the compartment to power the
unit. (See “Using AA size batteries”on page 12.)
Home Screen
Home Screen in the 4 CH mode
Home Screen in the MTR mode
1Playback speed status display
One of the following icons appears according to the
playback speed setting.
Icon Playback speed
Blank Playback speed not changed
×1.1 – ×2.0
×0.5 – ×0.9
When the playback speed cannot be
changed
2Display of the key control function on/off status
This icon shows whether the key control function is on or off.

TASCAM DR-44WL 9
2 – Names and functions of parts
Icon On/off status
Blank Key control function off
Key control function on
Key control function on (setting disabled
state)
3Reverb on/off status display
This icon shows the reverb on/off status.
Icon On/off status
Blank Reverb is off
Reverb is on (sound effects recording) INT
MIC, EXT IN
Reverb is on (SEND status) MIX
4Speaker output display
displayed: Speaker output on
Blank: Speaker output off
5Phantom power supply display
Blank: No phantom power supply
: 48V phantom power supplied
: 24V phantom power supplied
6Power supply status message
When power is supplied from the batteries, the current
battery level is displayed in bars ( , , ).
When the battery level is low, the will flash and the power
will be switched off (standby mode).
When the dedicated AC adapter (GPE053B) supplied with
the product or USB bus power is used, appears.
NOTE
When attempting recording or other operations that
consume large amount of power, a warning message of
Battery Low may pop-up.
7Recorder status message
The recording status is indicated in the following icons:
Indicator Detail
8Stop
9Pause
7Playback
,Fast-forwarding
mFast-rewinding
/Skip forward to the beginning of the next
file
.Skip backward to the beginning of either the
current or preceding file
8Loop playback setting status display
During loop playback, the icon is displayed.
9Filename/song name display
When the 4CH mode is selected, the name or tag infor-
mation of a file being played back is shown.
The ID3 tag information is displayed instead when included
in the MP3 file.
When there are multiple files in the 4CH mode, only the
format portion of each of the file names and the basic
number of a recording file are displayed. When a single file is
recorded, its name is shown.
When the MTR mode is selected, the name of an opened
song is shown.
NOTE
ID3 tag information contains titles and artist names, which
can be stored in MP3 files.
0Loop playback IN (starting) and OUT (ending) points
setting status
The IN (starting) and OUT (ending) points-setting state of
the loop playback is shown.
When the IN (starting) point is set, the icon appears at the
set position on the playback position-displaying bar.
The icon appears at the playback position on the bar
when the OUT (ending) point is set.
qPlayback position display
The current playback position is shown by a bar. As playback
progresses, the bar extends to the right.
wLevel meter guide display
This is a level meter guide for adjusting the input and output
levels. It is displayed at the“−12 dB” position of the scale.
eLevel meter
This meter displays the level of an input sound or that of a
playback sound.
rFile status display
The file state is displayed in different ways, depending on
the type of a file to be played back.
: Stereo file status
: Status of two mono files
: No file
tElapsed time display
Displays the elapsed time (hours: minutes: seconds) of the
current file.
yRemaining time display
Displays the remaining time (hours: minutes: seconds) of the
current file.
uPeak value displayed in decibel (dB)
Displays the maximum playback level in decibel reading per
set amount of time.
Recording Screen
The following recording screen is displayed in recording or
recording standby mode.
Recording screen in the 4 CH mode

10 TASCAM DR-44WL
2 – Names and functions of parts
Recording screen in the MTR mode
1Display of the dual recording function on/off status (4CH
mode only)
Blank: dual recording function off
: dual recording function on
2Reverb on/off status display
This icon shows the reverb on/off status.
Icon Detail
Blank Reverb is off
Reverb is on (sound effects recording) INT
MIC, EXT IN
Reverb is on (SEND status) MIX
3Phantom power supply display
Blank: No phantom power supply
: 48V phantom power supplied
: 24V phantom power supplied
4Recording status message
The recording status is indicated in the following icons:
Indicator Detail
09 Recording standby or recording pause
mode
0In recording mode
Self-timer recording activated
5Display of the setting status of the PRE REC or Auto REC
function (4CH mode only)
When the PRE REC function is ON, the icon appears.
When the AUTO REC function is ON, the icon appears.
6Filename/song name display
Displays the file name automatically assigned to the
recording file.
When there are multiple files in the 4CH mode, only the
format portion of each of the file names and the basic
number of a recording file are displayed. When a single file is
recorded, its name is shown.
When the MTR mode is selected, the name of an opened
song is shown.
7Level meter guide display
This is a level meter guide for adjusting the input and output
levels. It is displayed at the“-12 dB” position of the scale.
8Level meter
Displays the input sound level.
9File status display
The file state is displayed in different ways, depending on
the type of a file to be recorded.
: Stereo file status
: Status of two mono files
0Elapsed recording time
Displays the elapsed recording time of a recorded file (hours:
minutes: seconds).
qRemaining recording time
The remaining time left on the SD card is shown in hours:
minutes: seconds.
wPeak decibel (dB) message
Displays the peak input level in decibel reading.
eAuto punch in/out function on/off status or master track
loading status (MTR mode only)
No icon: auto punch in/out function off
: auto punch in/out function on
: master track loaded
Menu item list
Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen. Menu items
are as follows:
Menu item Function Ref. page
MODE Switch the operation
mode of this unit. page 17
REC SETTING Make recording
settings
page 18
page 25
page 26
page 29
AUTO FUNCTION Set different recording
functions.
page 24
page 25
page 28
BROWSE
(4CH mode only)
SD card file and folder
operations page 32
SONG
(MTR mode only)
Operate songs on the
card. page 34
TOOLS Configure settings for
different functions
page 15
page 47
page 48
page 54
REVERB Configure reverb
settings. page 48
POWER/DISPLAY Set the power and the
display page 57
SYSTEM Various system settings page 55
page 56

TASCAM DR-44WL 11
2 – Names and functions of parts
Using menus
The following explains the menus, using the display contrast
setting as an example.
1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Use the wheel to select a menu item (highlighted), and
press the ENTER/MARK or /button to move to various
settings screens.
SYSTEM is selected
3. Use the wheel to select an item to set (highlighted).
CONTRAST is selected
4. Press the ENTER/MARK or /button to move the cursor
to highlight the setting.
5. Use the wheel to change the setting.
6. Press the ENTER/MARK or .button to set a different
item in the same menu.
This enables you to select a new item. Use the wheel to
select an item to be set (highlighted).
7. Repeat the 3. to 6. steps to set each items, as necessary.
8. Press the MENU button to return to the MENU screen.
Press the 8/HOME button to return to the Home screen.
Basic operations
Use the following buttons to operate the various screens.
MENU button
Opens the MENU screen.
8/HOME button
To return to the Home screen, press the 8/HOME button in any
screen display.
Use this to answer“NO”to a confirmation message.
ENTER/MARK button
Use this button to confirm selection of a setting item or to select
“YES” to a confirmation message.
/button
Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted area) to the right on
the screen or to open folders on the BROWSE screen.
.button
Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted area) to the left on
the screen, and to close folders on the BROWSE screen.
Wheel
Use this to select (highlight) each item or to change value.
MIXER button
Open the mixer screen.
INPUT button
Open the INPUT SETTING screen.
QUICK button
This opens the quick menu pop-up. (See “QUICK button
overview”on page 40.)

12 TASCAM DR-44WL
3 – Preparation
Powering the unit
Power sources
The DR-44WL operates on four AA batteries, the dedicated AC
adapter (GPE053B) included with the unit or USB cable supplied
with the unit (USB bus power).
Use either alkaline batteries or Ni-MH batteries.
Using AA size batteries
Remove the battery compartment cover on the back of the unit,
insert four AA batteries into the battery compartment, aligning
to the ¥and ^markings inside the battery compartment, and
close the cover.
Select the same type of batteries to get an accurate reading of
the remaining battery power and required minimum power for
operation. (See “Battery type settings” on page 57.)
CAUTION
• Do not use Manganese dry cell batteries.
• Ni-MH batteries will not be recharged with this unit; use a
separate battery recharger instead.
• The supplied alkaline batteries are for testing and may not
last long.
NOTE
A large amount of power is consumed to provide phantom
power to a condenser microphone. If you use a condenser
microphone while running the unit on AA batteries (NiMH
rechargeable or alkaline), the operating time will be
extremely shortened.
If you need to operate the unit for a long time, use the
dedicated AC adapter (GPE053B) included with the unit or
TASCAM
BP-6AA external battery box (sold separately) to power the
unit.
Using an AC adapter
Connect the dedicated AC adapter (GPE053B) supplied with the
unit and the USB port of the unit with the included USB cable as
shown in the illustration.
AC outlet
GPE053B
micro-B USB plug
Connect the
supplied USB cable
NOTE
• When both batteries and the AC adapter are attached to the
unit, power will be supplied from the AC adapter.
• The included AC adapter for the unit comes with two types
of outlet plugs. Attach the type of plug that matches the
power outlet that you are using.
CAUTION
• Use only the dedicated AC adapter (GPE053B) supplied
with the unit. The use of another adapter may cause
malfunction, fire or electric shock.
• Noise may occur during microphone recording when the
unit and AC adapter are in close proximity. If noise occurs,
move the AC adapter away from the unit.
Changing the outlet plug
$%
2
1
5
3
4
1 Move the latch on the AC adapter in the direction of
the arrow.
2Pull off the outlet plug.
3Replace it with the other outlet plug (A or B).
4Move the latch on the AC adapter in the direction of
the arrow again.
5Attach the outlet plug to the AC adapter.
This completes changing the outlet plug.
After changing the outlet plug, confirm that is not loose or
crooked and that everything is normal before plugging it
into an outlet
CAUTION
Do not use the adapter if there is anything abnormal about
the plug after changing it. Use when the plug is abnormal
could cause fire or electric shock. Contact the retailer where

TASCAM DR-44WL 13
3 – Preparation
you purchased the unit or a TEAC service center to request
repair.
Using an external battery pack (sold
separately)
Connect a TASCAM BP-6AA external battery pack (designed for
use with this unit and sold separately) to the recorder with the
included USB cable as shown in the illustration. For details, see
the BP-6AA Owner’s Manual.
TASCAM BP-6AA (sold separately)
micro-B USB plug
Connect the
supplied USB cable
CAUTION
The DR-44WL cannot detect the remaining battery charge
of a BP-6AA. If you use a BP-6AA to operate the DR-44WL
without batteries in the recorder itself, the unit might stop
operating suddenly if the battery pack runs out of charge.
In order to avoid problems, put batteries with sufficient
charge into the DR-44WL before connecting and using a
BP-6AA.
Using USB bus power
Use the supplied USB cable to connect the unit and the
computer as illustrated below.
micro-B USB plug
Computer
USB
When you connect a USB cable while the unit power is on,
or turn on the power after making a connection, the USB
SELECT screen will pop up, prompting the user to select
either to operate the unit with USB bus power or make a USB
connection with the computer.
Use the wheel to select BUS POWER (highlighted) and press
the ENTER/MARK button to select power supply from the USB
port. The Home screen will appear.
NOTE
Power is supplied from the USB port when USB cable is
connected to the unit inserted with batteries (USB bus
power prioritized).
CAUTION
• Depending on the USB bus power specifications of the
computer, the DR-44WL may not operate with a USB
connection. If this occurs, use the dedicated AC adapter
(GPE053B) supplied with the unit instead.
• This unit is not compatible with the computer's power-save
mode or sleep-mode. Please turn off these modes when
operating the unit from the computer's USB bus power.
Turning the power on and off (standby
mode)
CAUTION
• When you turn the power switch off while supplying power
from the dedicated AC adapter (GPE053B) included with the
unit or the USB bus power connected to a computer, the unit
will go into standby mode.
• Before turning the power switch on and off, turn the volume
down for the sound system connected to the unit.
• Do not wear headphones when turning the power switch
on and off (standby mode); the noise may cause damage to
your ears and/or headphones.
Starting up the unit
When the unit is turned off, slide the HOLD/ switch of the
left side panel in the direction, and when the TASCAM
DR-44WL (start-up screen) appears, release the switch.
The DR-44WL starts up and the Home screen is displayed.
Start-up screen Home screen
CAUTION
When turn the power on for the first time (or when the
built-in clock is reset due to no battery power), the DATE/
TIME screen will appear before the Home screen to set
date/time.
(See “Song Operation” on page 34.)

14 TASCAM DR-44WL
3 – Preparation
Shutting down (standby mode)
When the unit is turned on, slide the HOLD/ switch of the
left side panel in the direction, and when the TASCAM
DR-44WL shutting down appears, release the switch.
The power turns off after the unit completes its shutdown
process.
CAUTION
Always use the HOLD/ switch to turn the power off.
Do not remove the batteries or disconnect the power cable
(AC adapter GPE053B included with the unit or USB cable)
accidentally while the unit is operating. If you do so, the unit
cannot shut down properly and all recordings, settings and
other data will be lost. Any lost data and/or settings cannot
be restored.
Resume function
The DR-44WL is equipped with a resume function to locate the
previous position (or time) when the power was turned off.
Turn the power on and press the 7/9button to play back
from the previous file position (time) when the power was
turned off.
NOTE
The position is recorded in the SD card. The resume function
does not work if the SD card is replaced or formatted.
Setting the date/time
The DR-44WL uses its internal clock to record the date and time
to the recorded files.
1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Using the wheel, select (highlight) SYSTEM menu item
and press the ENTER/MARK or /button.
The SYSTEM screen is displayed.
3. Use the wheel to select DATE/TIME and press the
ENTER/MARK or /button.
Exec appears selected for the DATE/TIME item.
4. Press the ENTER/MARK button to open the DATE/
TIME screen.
5. Press the .button or /button to move the cursor
(highlighted area), and use the wheel to change values.
6. Press the ENTER/MARK button to confirm the change and
return to the SYSTEM screen.
NOTE
The file name will include the set date/time. (See “Setting
the file name type” on page 56.)
CAUTION
The date and time setting can only be maintained for a few
minutes if the battery power becomes low or the unit is not
powered by the dedicated AC adapter (GPE053B) included
with the unit or USB cable.
When using batteries, we recommend to replace them
before they are completely drained.
Inserting and removing SD cards
Inserting the SD card
NOTE
When the product is purchased, the SD card slot has an SD
card already installed. If you want to use this SD card to
record and play tracks, there is no need to reinstall it.
1. Open the SD card slot cover on the left side panel.
2. Insert the SD card into the slot as shown in the following
illustration until it clicks into place.
Removing the card
1. Open the SD card slot cover.
2. Press the SD card in gently and then release it to allow it to
come out.

TASCAM DR-44WL 15
3 – Preparation
CAUTION
• Do not remove the SD card from the unit during recording,
playback or at other times when it is being accessed.
• Do not remove the SD card from the unit when it is
connected to a computer via USB.
• SD cards that meet SD, SDHC or SDXC standards can be used
with this unit.
• A list of SD cards that have been confirmed to work with
this unit can be found on the TEAC Global Site (http://
teac-global.com).
• When using a microSD card in an SD card adapter, do not
remove just the microSD card. Always remove the adapter
with the microSD card in it. Removing only the microSD card
could cause malfunction.
SD card write protection switches
An SD card comes equipped with a write protect switch.
Unprotected Protected
If you slide the protect switch to the LOCK position, file
recording and editing is not possible. Move the switch to the
unlocked position in order to record, erase and otherwise edit
data on the card.
Preparing an SD card for use
In order to use an SD card in this unit, you must format it first.
1. Confirm that an SD card is installed and turn the power ON.
2. The following message appears when a new card or a card
formatted by another device is inserted into the unit.
SD/SDHC card
SDXC card
3. Press the ENTER/MARK button to start formatting.
CAUTION
Formatting an SD card erases all the data on it.
4. When formatting is complete, it will return to the Home
screen. You may format the card whenever required.
CAUTION
When formatting the SD card, make sure the unit is
connected to the dedicated AC adapter (GPE053B) included
with the unit, a computer via USB bus power, or fully-
charged batteries.
Turning the built-in speaker on/off
The factory setting for the built-in speaker output is selected as
ON. To turn it off, open the TOOLS screen and select OFF for
the SPEAKER setting.
1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Using the wheel, select (highlight) TOOLS menu item and
press the ENTER/MARK or /button.
TOOLS screen appears.
3. Using the wheel, select (highlight) SPEAKER and press
the ENTER/MARK or /button.
4. Using the wheel, turn on or off and press the ENTER/MARK
button.
Options: OFF, ON (default setting)
5. Once the setting has been completed, press the 8/HOME
button to return to the Home screen.
NOTE
In a recording standby or recording mode, or when a
headphone or a speaker system is connected to the
DR-44WL, the built-in speaker will not emit sound even
when the SPEAKER setting is ON.
Connecting a monitor device
To listen with a headphone, connect it to the /LINE OUT jack.
External monitor system (powered monitor speaker or an
amplifier and speaker): connect the external monitor system to
the /LINE OUT jack.

16 TASCAM DR-44WL
3 – Preparation
Headphone
Powered speakers
or
Amplifier and speaker
Adjusting the playback volume
When the Home screen is being displayed, use the OUTPUT
LEVEL (+/−) button on the left side panel to adjust the volume
of output through the built-in speaker or the /LINE OUT jack.
A volume level indicator will pull up at the bottom of the display.
When increasing the volume, this pop-up message might
appear: “INCREASE YOUR RISK OF HEARING DAMAGE .”
This warning appears when the volume is set above a level
recommended by the European Union (EU) to avoid hearing
damage (EU volume limit regulation).
Reconnecting headphones will reset the volume to its default
value.
NOTE
• You can continue to adjust the volume even after the
pop-up message appears.
When you raise or lower the volume, the pop-up message
will disappear.
• If the output level is set to 12 or higher and the unit
is restarted when headphones or another device are
connected to the /LINE OUT jack, the upper level will be
set to 12 after the unit restarts.
CAUTION
Listening at high volumes could cause hearing damage. If
the surroundings are noisy, the sound of playback might
seem quieter than it actually is.
Start playback of the audio and check the volume before
putting on headphones, for example.
Input settings
Recording with the built-in microphone
Point the built-in microphone toward the sound source and
place the unit on a stable surface with minimum vibration.
NOTE
During mono recording, orient the mic set for the recording
channel toward the sound source.
Recording with an external microphone (EXT
MIC IN)
Connect an external microphone to the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack of
this unit.
Point the external microphone toward the sound source and
place the unit on a stable surface with minimum vibration.
Microphones
NOTE
To provide phantom power to a condenser microphone, set
the EXT IN switch to MIC+PHANTOM. (See “Set the input
gain” on page 19.)
Recording from an external device (LINE IN)
Use stereo plug cables to connect to the output of an external
audio device.

TASCAM DR-44WL 17
3 – Preparation
Audio device
or
external device
CAUTION
• If the input sound is still distorted after adjusting the input
level of the unit, reduce the playback sound of the external
device.
• When an external audio device with a fixed output line level
is connected, it would be impossible to control the gain level
appropriately because of excessively large input signals. In
such cases, use the headphone jack or other level-control-
lable output for connection to the unit.
Selecting Operation Mode
Two operation modes are available in this unit: 4CH and MTR
modes. (See “Overview of recording modes”on page 18.)
Setting a mode
1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Using the wheel, select (highlight) MODE menu item and
press the ENTER/MARK or /button.
The MODE screen is displayed.
3. Using the wheel, select (highlight) MODE and press the
ENTER/MARK or /button.
4. Use the wheel to select operation mode.
Options: 4CH (default value), MTR
5. Once the setting has been completed, press the 8/HOME
button to return to the Home screen.
NOTE
The selected mode is stored and started in the selected
mode when the power is turned on next time.
Checking mode
When the operation mode is set to MTR, the MTR indicator on
the top of the display lights up.
Attaching the grip
You can attach the included grip to the tripod mounting threads
(1/4-inch) on the bottom of the unit and use it as a handgrip.
You can also use the grip to attach the unit to a mic stand.
Attaching the shoe mount adapter
Attach the included shoe mount adapter to the tripod mounting
threads on the bottom of the unit to use this unit as an audio
recorder with a digital SLR camera or video camera, for example.

18 TASCAM DR-44WL
4 – Recording
In addition to the built-in microphone, an external microphone
or external audio devices (i.e. CD player) can also be used for
recordings.
Recordings can be made in MP3 (32k -320kbps, 44.1k/48kHz)
and WAV/BWF (44.1k/48k/96kHz, 16/24-bit) audio formats.
Cue marks in WAV file that supports BWF (Broadcast Wave
Format) can be used in BWF compatible softwares.
Overview of recording modes
This recorder can record sounds in two modes: 4CH and MTR
modes.
4CH mode
A maximum of four channels can be recorded simultaneously
from the built-in mics and external input jacks (input jack assign-
ments are fixed).
The recorded files are as follows according to the recording
channel link settings.
• Mono × 1–4
• Stereo × 1–2
• Stereo × 1 + Mono × 1–2 (WAV or BWF only)
MTR mode
You can use this device as a multitrack recorder (MTR) to record
individual tracks and overdub them.
A maximum of four channels can be recorded simultaneously
from the built-in mics and external input jacks (input jack assign-
ments can be selected). These can also be recorded into already
recorded files (overdubbing) .
The recorded files are as follows.
• Mono × 4
Set where to save the file
Set the folder where recorded files are saved.
The recorded file will be saved in the current (currently selected)
folder. For details, see the SELECT quick menu item under
(See “Folder operations” on page 33.).
In 4CH mode if no setting is made, new recording files are
created in the“MUSIC”folder.
In MTR mode, new recording files are created in the “MTR” folder.
Select the file format and sampling
frequency (4CH mode only)
Select the desired audio file type before you start recording.
1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Using the wheel, select (highlight) REC SETTING and
press the ENTER/MARK or /button.
The REC SETTING screen appears.
3. Using the wheel, select (highlight) FORMAT and press the
ENTER/MARK or /button.
Set the file format.
Using the wheel, select one of the following options.
Options: BWF 24bit, BWF 16bit, WAV 24bit,
WAV 16bit (default value), MP3 320k,
MP3 256k, MP3 192k, MP3 128k, MP3
96k, MP3 64k, MP3 32k
NOTE
• BWF is a format created for broadcasting that has the same
sound quality as the standard WAV format. It also uses the
same .wav file extension as WAV files. In this manual, we
distinguish these file types by using the terms BWF and WAV.
• The WAV and BWF formats offer higher quality recording
than MP3 files.
• The MP3 format can record for longer hours compared to
the WAV and BWF formats.
• With MP3 format, recording with higher values offers better
quality.
4. Press the ENTER/MARK or .button to confirm the
setting and enable selection of other setting items.
5. Using the wheel, select (highlight) SAMPLE and press the
ENTER/MARK or /button.
Set the sampling frequency.
Using the wheel, select one of the following options.
Options: 44.1k (default value), 48k, 96k
NOTE
96k cannot be selected for a MP3 format file.
TIP
You can record with audio quality equivalent to a CD by
selecting WAV 16bit and 44.1k.
6. Press the ENTER/MARK or .button to confirm the
setting and enable selection of other setting items.
7. Once the setting has been completed, press the 8/HOME
button to return to the Home screen.

TASCAM DR-44WL 19
4 – Recording
Adjusting the input level
Before starting recording, the input level should be adjusted to
prevent the recorded sounds or signals from being distorted
due to excessively large input signals or from being inaudible
due to excessively low input signals compared to noise.
In addition to manual adjustment, the unit has the following
two level adjustment functions: peak reduction and limiter. Any
of these can be used as required. (See “How to download and
install the exclusive application (TASCAM DR CONTROL)” on
page 51.)
TIPS
In addition to adjusting the INPUT level, try changing the
distance and angle between the microphone and the sound
source. The angle and distance of the microphone can also
change the sound quality.
1. In the Home screen mode, press the INPUT LEVEL button at
the right side panel to make the INPUT LEVEL setting
screen pop up.
All the TRACK/INPUT buttons start flashing.
Press a TRACK/INPUT button to select a channel (track) for
input level adjustment.
Selected TRACK/INPUT buttons light.
NOTE
If you select multiple channels/tracks (1/2 or 3/4) for input
level adjustment, you can adjust them at the same time.
2. Use the INPUT LEVEL volume of the right side panel to
adjust the input level.
When the input sound is too loud, the PEAK indicator of the
top panel is lit in red.
A tg mark is provided at the“−12 dB” position on the
level meters.
Set the input level so that the level changes near this mark
without causing the PEAK indicator to light in red.
3. Press the INPUT LEVEL button at the right side panel or the
8/HOME button at the top panel to return to the HOME
screen.
NOTE
When in recording standby or during recording, the speaker
does not output sound even if the SPEAKER setting is
enabled.
If you need to monitor sound to adjust the input level and
make recordings, connect the headphone to the /LINE
OUT jack.
To adjust monitor sound, go to the Home screen and use the
OUTPUT LEVEL button at the left side panel. Adjusting the
monitor sound will not affect the recording quality.
Set the input gain
When an external input is selected for the input source, select
the option for the EXT IN switch at the right side panel to suit
the connected external device.
MIC+PHANTOM:
Use this setting when connecting condenser microphones
that require phantom power (+24V or +48V) to the recorder.
(See “Using phantom power” on page 19.)
MIC:
Use this setting when connecting microphones to the
recorder.
LINE:
Use this setting when connecting line output jacks of
external devices to the analog inputs of this recorder.
CAUTION
Depending on this setting, the input level setting range
changes. For this reason, the input level might change
greatly when this setting is changed. Before changing it, you
should turn the power OFF or turn the output level all the
way down.
Using phantom power
In stop mode, if you change the EXT IN switch at the right
side panel to MIC+PHANTOM, a pop-up message appears
confirming that you want to turn phantom power on.
When the confirmation pop-up message opens, press the
ENTER/MARK button to turn phantom power on for the EXT
MIC/LINE IN jack and supply phantom power (+24V or +48V) to
the connected microphone.
While the confirmation pop-up message is displayed, change
the EXT IN switch to either MIC or LINE to close the confir-
mation pop-up message and turn phantom power off.
Use the POWER/DISPLAY screen to set the voltage to
+24V or +48V. (See “Set the voltage value of the phantom
power supply” on page 57.)
NOTE
Battery power will be consumed faster when set to +48V
than when set to +24V.
CAUTION
• Confirm that phantom power is OFF before connecting a
line level device to the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack. If you connect
a line level device while phantom power is being supplied,
that device and this unit could be damaged.
• When connecting to or disconnecting a condenser micro-
phone from the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack, confirm that the

20 TASCAM DR-44WL
4 – Recording
phantom power for that jack is OFF. If you connect or
disconnect a microphone while phantom power is being
supplied, that microphone and this unit could be damaged.
• Turn phantom power ON only when using a condenser
microphone that requires phantom power.
• Supplying phantom power to some ribbon microphones
will break them. If you are unsure, do not supply phantom
power to a ribbon microphone.
• When using USB bus power, the unit might not be able to
supply phantom power depending on the computer. If this
occurs, use the dedicated AC adapter (GPE053B) supplied
with the unit instead.
• Some condenser microphones will not operate when
phantom power is set to +24V.
• Do not connect or disconnect the AC adapter when using
phantom power. Even when the battery were inserted in
the unit, the power might be cut off, causing data being
recorded to be damaged or lost.
Settings in the “INPUT SETTING”
screen
The contents of the INPUT SETTING screen displayed by
pressing the INPUT button vary depending on which mode to
be selected between 4CH mode and MTR mode.
INPUT SETTING screen Tr1 display when in 4CH mode
INPUT SETTING screen Tr1 display when in MTR mode
NOTE
When a channel (track) link is turned on, the link status
shown at the bottom of the INPUT SETTING screen
will change.
INPUT SETTING screen Tr1 display when in 4CH mode