Tascam DR-40XP: a four-channel 32-bit float recorder for $259

Tascam has introduced the DR-40XP, a new version of its DR-40 handheld recorder. Compared with earlier DR-40 models, it adds a USB-C port and 32-bit floating point recording. The retail price is $259. Tascam lists music, audio for video, meetings and dictation among its uses.

Microphones and inputs

The recorder has two built-in unidirectional condenser microphones arranged as a stereo pair. Their position can be changed between A/B and X/Y. Two XLR/TRS inputs on the bottom of the unit accept external microphones or other sources, so four channels can be recorded at once. An input delay function corrects phase differences between the external and internal microphones.

Recording

The DR-40XP records in 32-bit float at sample rates up to 96 kHz. Tascam says the mode gives low-noise, distortion-free recordings and means that takes recorded too loudly or too quietly are not lost. Recordings go to microSDXC cards of up to 512 GB.

Other recording tools include:

• three low-cut filter settings against unwanted noise;
• a built-in reverb effect that adds resonance to vocals and instruments;
• a chromatic tuner for musicians;
• an Auto Tone output that helps sync audio with video in editing.

The recorder can also be mounted on a tripod.

USB-C modes

Over USB-C the DR-40XP can serve as a two-in, two-out audio interface. It works with Windows and Mac computers and with iOS devices, and Tascam says it connects easily to a computer or a DAW. In another mode, the same connection lets it act as a USB microphone for those devices.