Multitrack Cassette Recorder; Track Format And Tape Recommendations - Tascam 488 PORTASTUDIO Owner's Manual

Multitrack Cassette Recorder

The 488 records on readily available standard
(Philips) Compact Cassette tape, high bias Type
II. The recorder has 8 tracks while the mixer has
4 group outs; you can record a maximum of 4
tracks at one time. For more details, see "How to
Record Multiple Tracks Simultaneously", page
22.
The 488's dbx Noise Reduction virtually
eliminates unwanted tape noise. A special SYNC
feature turns off the dbx on track 8 separately,
making it possible to record and play back the
MIDI sync tones or SMPTE/EBU time code
without being affected
encode/decode. This ensures that the sync
tones/code are recorded and played back without
unnecessary processing. With proper operating
techniques, it is not necessary to leave a guard
band between music and sync tone tracks
because of the low crosstalk of the TASCAM
heads.
The transport controls of the 488 are
microprocessor operated, allowing highly

Track Format and Tape Recommendations

The Portastudio 488 uses a basic speed of 9.5
cm/sec. (3-3/4 ips) which is two times (2X) the
normal speed of a standard audio cassette. It
also employs a discrete 8-channel format head
by the dbx
reliable functions that make the unit easier to
use:
• A three position autolocator (MEMO 1 and 2
and Zero) allows key positions to be located
automatically.
• REPEAT allows a section to be played over
and over between the MEM01 and MEM02
points for rehearsal.
• RHSL (rehearsal) allows you to "preview"
what your recording will sound like and repeat
the record punch in/out sequence as many
times as you wish before actually executing it
on tape.
• The tape speed can be increased or decreased
with the PITCH CONTROL dial in both
playback and record, to match pitch or for
special effects.
• Punch-in and Punch-out can be engaged using
the optional RC-30P footswitch, which gives
you an "extra hand" in the recording process.
developed especially by TEAC for TASCAM
multitrack cassette recorders. Here is a
comparision of various cassette formats:
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