The Best Multitrack Recorders - Digital
Highest Rated 6 to 8 Track Recorders
Boss Micro BR BR-80
The Boss Micro BR BR-80 is a portable multitrack recorder that fits in your pocket and is designed for use by all musicians, but it comes with some special features specifically designed for guitarists including Roland's COSM amp and effect emulators.
It has three modes you can use it in:
- MTR - multi-track recorder
- eBand - jam along with prerecorded tracks
- Live Rec - record using the built-in stereo condenser mic
Main Features:
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 2
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 8
- Virtual tracks: 64
- Inputs: 1 x Guitar/Mic and 1 x line level
- Outputs: Phones/Line out + USB
- Sample rate: 44.1kHz
- Bit rate: 24-bit
- On-board effects: EQ, reverb, 40 amp models, mastering tools, vocal processing including doubling, harmony effects, pitch correction and more
- Effects send: No
- USB audio interface: 2 channels
- Storage medium: SD/SDHC card - up to 32GB
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Pros
The main thing owners praise the Boss Micro BR BR-80 for are its portability, clean sound, and that it's a great device for capturing musical ideas. It has been particularly well-received by guitarists for its amp modeling features allowing you to plug your guitar in directly, even when using pedals.
Cons
The negative reviews focus on the difficulty in using the export function, and a few users report difficulty using the control wheel. There are also some complaints about the fact that the A/C adapter is sold separately, however, it also runs on USB Bus power or 2 AA batteries.
Overall
Overall, if you're looking for something portable you can record ideas with at any time, and intend to use it as an audio interface, then you'll find the Boss Micro BR BR-80 fits the bill nicely, but you wouldn't want it to be your primary platform for producing music on - it's best thought of as a 'sketch-pad' for recording.
TASCAM DP-008EX
The TASCAM DP-008EX is still very popular with the number of user reviews having consistently increased over the past few years.
TASCAM has a storied history of making portable multitrack recorders for use by musicians.
When they first released their Portastudio series for cassette tapes, multitrack recordings were limited to going to big recording studios. TASCAM continues this design philosophy of making multitrack recording hardware accessible with its current range of multitrack recorders.
Main Features:
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 2
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 8
- Virtual tracks: 6 with undo/redo history function on all tracks
- Inputs: 2 x balanced XLR with 48v phantom power & 2 x unbalanced mic/line/guitar
- Outputs: 2 x RCA line, 1 x 1/8" stereo headphone + USB
- Sample rate: 44.1kHz
- Bit rate: 16-bit
- On-board effects: 6 reverbs, 2-band shelving EQ, compressor, de-esser and exciter, mastering
- Effects send: Internal
- USB audio interface: No - USB is for transferring files only
- Storage medium: SD/SDHC card - up to 32GB
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Pros
The quality and clarity of its sound, its portability, and ease of use are features that owners consistently refer to when rating it highly. People are continuing to praise the quality of the in-built microphones.
Cons
The most often cited complaint from reviewers was that it doesn't work as a USB audio interface, which is true, but it seems like an unfair complaint to me because it doesn't claim to be one. You can, however, transfer your tracks to a computer via USB. For its price, you can't expect it to have many more features than TASCAM have already packed into it - if you need one that also works as an audio interface then look at some of the other options below such as the Zoom R8.
Overall
The TASCAM DP-008EX is well suited to musicians on a budget that simply want a reliable portable device that records songs and allows for mixing down to a final stereo track.
Zoom R8
Although the Zoom R8 is used by some filmmakers, it was designed primarily with musicians in mind because it works as a multitrack recorder, USB audio interface, sampler and a control surface for DAWs.
It comes bundled with Cubase LE so it provides both hardware and software recording and mixing options making it well suited to musicians who are just starting in multitrack recording and music production.
It has a built-in stereo condenser mic which makes it well suited to portable recording or quickly capturing ideas without having to set up external microphones. It lets you program punch in/out points and it also has a control input allowing you to use a footswitch (not included) for this as well as using it to start, stop, rewind, and patch up/down.
Main Features:
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 2
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 8
- Virtual tracks: Unlimited (actually limited by storage space)
- Inputs: 2 x Balanced XLR/TRS Combo Inputs
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4" main out, Stereo 1/4" Headphone Jack + USB
- Sample rate: 44.1/48kHz for recording, up to 96kHz when used as a USB audio interface
- Bit rate: 16/24-bit
- On-board effects: 150+ DSP effects which include amp modeling and mastering effects
- Effects send: Internal
- USB audio interface: 2 channels
- Storage medium: SD/SDHC card - up to 32GB
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Pros
The most common references in positive reviews are about the quality and clarity of the recorded sound along with the interface being easy to learn and use. In the discussions about using it as a DAW controller, the consensus is that it works quite well in this regard, both for transport control and assigning faders. In his Sound on Sound review, Tom Flint said, "The sequencer and sampler will enable those interested in hip-hop, dance music, and other assorted electronica to emulate the basic production techniques they are hearing, and the recording facilities will introduce newcomers to the wonders of multitracking and mixing in the most straightforward manner."
Cons
When the amp and cabinet modeling features are discussed there is some disagreement - some people say they sound great while others say they're fairly average. One thing that several reviewers complained about is that when you use the onboard rhythm patterns or use it as a sampler you have to assign them to tracks - so if you use 2 tracks for this purpose you only have 6 of the 8 playback tracks left to use.
Overall
The Zoom R8 receives the most number of positive comments for versatility for an 8 track recorder - mainly because it's portable, records well, and is a respectable USB audio interface.
Highest Rated 10 to 12 Track Recorders
Zoom LiveTrak L-12
Following up on the success of their R series recorders, Zoom released the Livetrak series in 2017 with new features previously unseen on any of their standalone recorder line.
While the R series is still in production today, The Livetrak series offers an upscale experience and looks more in place in studios while the R series caters more on the "prosumer" market.
Main Features:
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 14
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 12. 4 if used as audio interface
- Virtual tracks: 0
- Inputs: 8 x XLR, 2 Stereo 1/4" TRS - Phantom power on 8 channels
- Outputs: 2 x XLR Master Out, 5 x 1/4" TRS Headphone Monitor outs, 2x 1/4" unbalanced LR Monitor out + USB
- Sample rate: 44.1khz, 48khz, 96khz (switchable)
- Bit rate: Up to 24-bit
- On-board effects: 16 onboard effects including delays and reverbs
- Effects send: Internal
- USB audio interface: 14 channels
- Storage medium: USB 2.0
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Pros
Most users liked how it functions threefold as a digital mixer, an audio interface, and a standalone recorder. Some users who had the previous generation R series thought that the Livetrak L-12 is a definite upgrade with its newer preamps and converters.
Cons
Reviewers criticized the lack of a solo button on the tracks as well as the absence of a polarity switch to reverse the phase. Both are essential functions for mixing. Filenames are also named similarly and can confuse when transferring the project to a computer for further mixing.
Overall
If you're looking for a jack-of-all-trades multitrack recorder that can help you keep track of rehearsals or live, small venue events, the Zoom LiveTrak L-12 is a great choice.
Sound Devices MixPre-10M
Sound Devices is an American company known for making field recording and live production products like their flagship Scorpio series.
The MixPre series was released in 2018 as a musician-centered mixer/recorder hybrid that offers overdubbing, punch recording, and track bouncing, along with professional-quality effects.
Main Features:
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 10
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 12
- Virtual tracks:
- Inputs: 8 x XLR-1/4" combo (mic/line), 1 x 1/8" (aux/mic)
- Outputs: 2 x TA3 (L/R balanced), 1 x 1/8" (stereo unbalanced)
- Sample rate: up to 96khz
- Bit rate: up to 24 bit
- On-board effects: 3 x Reverbs, Vocal Air
- Effects send: none
- USB audio interface: 12 channels
- Storage medium: SD/SDHC/SDXC
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Pros
Positive reviews from users come from its rugged construction and portability compared to other standalone recorders in its class. The overdubbing feature is seldom seen on devices in this class and users note how intuitive it is to lay down ideas using the MixPre-10m. Battery power is also a plus for many users.
Cons
Not many cons except the price. One reviewer mentioned how he would have wanted word clock sync with other digital equipment in his studio.
Overall
If you want a great multitrack recorder/mixer that is fast and easy to lay ideas down on, the MixPre-10m is a great pick for those spontaneous ideas that pop up during jam sessions. It does a great job of getting work done as fast and easy as possible.
Highest Rated 14 to 16 Track Recorder
Zoom R16
The Zoom R16 provides a huge step up from the 8 track recorders above because it allows you to record 8 tracks simultaneously.
All 8 inputs can take microphones or line-level inputs. Phantom power is only available on two tracks and one track can take a Hi-Z instrument (guitar) level input.
You can also use it as an 8 channel USB audio interface and it comes bundled with Cubase LE. You can also transfer any tracks you've recorded directly on the Zoom R16 to your computer via the USB connection.
It has a built-in stereo condenser mic making it easy to use as a portable recorder.
It comes with an A/C adapter but can also be USB Bus-powered or you can use 6 AA batteries.
Main Features:
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 8
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 16
- Virtual tracks: Unlimited (actually limited by storage space)
- Inputs: 8 x XLR and 1/4" TRS Combo with Hi-Z input for guitar - Phantom power on 2 channels
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4" + USB
- Sample rate: 44.1kHz
- Bit rate: 24-bit
- On-board effects: 135 types including amp and cab simulations and mastering
- Effects send: Internal
- USB audio interface: 2 channels
- Storage medium: SD/SDHC card - up to 32GB
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Pros
The most commonly mentioned attributes in positive user reviews are that the Zoom R16 provides excellent value for money given that you can use it to record 8 tracks simultaneously to the onboard SD card or your computer and that the sound quality is comparable to much higher spec'd recording devices. In their review, Music Radar said, "Having the simplicity of a standalone recorder is one of its strengths, and the R16 manages to combine said simplicity with many more advanced features that make it a great portable recording solution as well as a handy addition to your computer setup."
Cons
One issue that has been pointed out by a few reviewers is that it doesn't come with an input for a footswitch to allow you to punch/in out when recording. A few owners also gave negative comments about the light-weight plastic construction, but given that many reviewers are still using this device a couple of years after they bought it that's probably not too much of a concern - just treat it carefully and you should be okay. It appears that not many people use it as a controller as it seems on average they would only give it about 3.5 out 5 for this feature. If you're serious about wanting a hardware DAW controller then you might want motorized faders which this doesn't have.
Overall
Overall probably the biggest testament to the Zoom R16 is that it's the only 16 track digital recorder that we found we could recommend after reading all the reviews - most of the other manufacturers who were serious contenders in the 16 track space have given up leaving the Zoom R16 as the clear winner in this category.
Highest Rated 18 to 24 Track Recorders
TASCAM DP-24SD
While it does not offer any DAW controller or USB audio interface features, the TASCAM DP-24SD is designed to be a stand-alone audio workstation. The design approach allows you to do all of your music production on board and also lets you export tracks to your computer via USB.
Main Features:
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 8
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 24
- Virtual tracks: 192 - 8 virtual track per actual track
- Inputs: 8 x Combo XLR/TRS - 1 channel switchable between line and guitar - Phantom power on all 8 inputs
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4" balanced TRS, 2 x RCA unbalanced, 1/4" TRS headphone jack, 1/4" TRS jack for effects send + USB
- Sample rate: 44.1k/48k
- Bit rate: 16/24-bit
- On-board effects: Many including 3-band EQ, reverb, compression, exciter, de-esser, noise suppression, amp models, mastering tools, and more
- Effects send: 2
- USB audio interface: No
- Storage medium: SD/SDHC card - up to 32GB
- Export tracks to computer: Yes via USB
Pros
The vast majority of musicians who have reviewed it praise if for its audio quality and ease of use. The amp simulations have mixed reviews - but overall they lean towards being positive.
Cons
One issue that some owners report in a negative light is the limitation that you can't use more than one dynamic effect on a single track simultaneously - for example, you can't use the de-esser and compressor, or compressor and noise suppression, simultaneously on one track. The same applies to time-based effects since you can't have reverb and delay at the same time. You can work around this utilizing bouncing and virtual tracks, but it would have been better if you didn't have to. There were also some reviewers disappointed that it doesn't have motorized fades or mixing automation, however, those features probably would have caused the price to go up.
Overall
Overall this is well-liked as an all-in-one recorder for both live and home studio use.
The following review by Andi Picker of the previous model provides an excellent overview of its features and functionality - note that it no longer has a CD burner - you can export to your computer to do that:
Zoom LiveTrak L-20
The Zoom LiveTrak L-20 is Zoom's flagship Multitrack Recorder/Digital Mixer hybrid. It features functionality more akin to dedicated digital mixers while balancing recording and mixing functionality.
The L-20 also adds a solo button for each channel -- a feature a lot of people were missing on the L-12.
Main Features:
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 22
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 20
- Virtual tracks: 0
- Inputs: 16 x XLR/TRS combo jacks, 2 x Stereo Line in
- Outputs: 2 x XLR Master out, 2 x TRS phone jacks Monitor speaker out, 6 x Headphone monitor mix out, 1 x Headphone out
- Sample rate: 44.1/48/96 kHz
- Bit rate: 16/24-bit, mono/stereo
- On-board effects: 20 Types of Reverb, Delay and Modulation
- Effects send: 2
- USB audio interface: 22 Channels In, 4 Channels out
- Storage medium: SDHC/SDXC
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Pros
Most user reviews came from people who use the unit as a live mixer that can record performances. Some bands with more than 5 members bought this over the L-12 for the extra inputs. It also gets praise for the individual monitor mix for 6 headphones.
Cons
Many users disliked the fact that the EQ channel also affects the monitor mixes. Front-of-house (FOH) mixes going out through the monitors is usually a recipe for feedback and a few users had trouble finding a compromise between having a good audience mix and a good monitor mix.
Overall
The LiveTrak L-20 is great for recording and monitoring live sessions which are increasing in popularity these days as Youtube content. It may not be optimal for live sound because of the linked channel EQ for both the FOH mix and monitor mix. For your rehearsal space, studio or radio station, the LiveTrak L-20 is a handy tool for capturing performances.
Highest Rated 26 to 32 Track Recorder
TASCAM DP-32SD
The TASCAM DP-32SD is designed to be a standalone recording workstation similar to its ancestor, the TASCAM Portastudio Tape recorders. While it does not offer USB recording and DAW control features, it was designed with people used to computerless recording workflows in mind.
According to TASCAM, many well-known songwriters have used their 32 track recorders including Lady Gaga and Bruce Springsteen.
Main Features:
- Simultaneous recording tracks: 8
- Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 32
- Virtual tracks: 256 - 8 virtual track per actual track
- Inputs: 8 x XLR/TRS balanced combo - 1 channel switchable between line and guitar - Phantom power on all 8 inputs
- Outputs: 2x 1/4" balanced TRS, 2 x RCA unbalanced, 1/4" TRS headphone jack, 2x 1/4" unbalanced jack for effects send + USB
- Sample rate: 44.1k/48k
- Bit rate: 16/24-bit
- On-board effects: Many including 3-band EQ, reverb, compression, exciter, de-esser, noise suppression, amp models, mastering tools, and more
- Effects send: 2
- USB audio interface: No
- Storage medium: SD/SDHC card - up to 32GB
- Export tracks to computer: Yes
Pros
Most positive reviews come from users that are accustomed to computerless setups and love how familiar the DP-32SD's workflow is to what they're used to. Many of these reviews are from people who gained experience with tape and early digital recording.
Cons
Customer reviews of the TASCAM DP-32SD rate slightly lower than owners of the TASCAM DP-24SD and the main reason is that people expect more than just an additional 8 tracks of playback for a $100 higher price tag. That being said, it appears that more people have purchased the 32 than the 24 over the last few years based on the relative numbers of new user reviews favoring the 32 track version.
Overall
TASCAM's reputation for offering standalone multitrack recorders goes back decades. The DP-24SD is a modern take of the old Tascam Portastudios of the past. For artists or performers that require multiple inputs that prefer having the ability to record and mix without using a DAW, the DP-32SD is a perfect choice.
What To Look For in a Digital Multitrack Recorder
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Simultaneous Recording Tracks
When multitrack recording was done on tape machines you could generally record on all tracks simultaneously, however, digital systems usually only permit recording on a limited number of tracks at the same time - make sure the recording system you choose provides enough recording tracks for the kind of work you do.
-
Total Number of Tracks for Mixing
If a digital recorder is listed as 8 tracks that means you can mix a maximum of 8 tracks regardless of how many you can record on at once.
-
Virtual Tracks
Many digital multitrack recorders offer additional virtual tracks which are very handy because they allow for non-destructive editing. For example, if you have 8 virtual tracks per track you can do 8 extra takes without 'recording over' previous takes. Alternatively, you might have drums on 8 tracks and bounce them down to 2 tracks to free up tracks for other uses, however, if you need to change that mix later you'll still have access to the original 8 tracks which you can reload then remix.
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Effects
You won't be able to add plugins so you'll either want to select one that has all the effects you need or one that has an external effects send/loop so you can use additional outboard signal processing.
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Export Functions
You may want to record on a multitrack recorder, then later export your tracks to a computer so that you can do additional mixing/editing/processing on a DAW.
-
Additional Features
Many models come with additional features such as drum machines or allowing you to use them as a USB audio interface with your computer.
Which is the Best Budget Multitrack Recorder?
Selecting which Multitrack Recorder within your budget needs some special considerations. Since most recorders increase in price the more inputs you need, you have to consider how many inputs you will use. As a general tip, choose a recorder with around 2-4 more inputs than you need. Then when you have identified how many inputs you need, check our guide as we have categorized our selections according to the number of inputs and then price.
For small bands that don't need to record simultaneously, the TASCAM DP-008EX is a safe pick with 2 inputs if you don't need it as an audio interface.
Multitrack recorders with fewer inputs require a different workflow since you won't be able to simultaneously record your entire ensemble. If you need to record multiple sources simultaneously, the Zoom R16 is a good, time-tested choice.
Important Note About Digital Multitrack Recorder Memory
Many recorders only ship with a 1 or 2 GB SD card installed, and some don't ship with any at all, so you'll probably want to get some bigger SDHC memory cards. They're fairly cheap so you may as well go for 32GBs and you can buy them at a local store or online from Sweetwater.com.
Best Multitrack Recorder Selection Methodology
First published on Feb. 12, 2016 written by Jason Horton and last updated on Aug. 13, 2019 by Raphael Pulgar.
We looked at all multitrack recorders available from major online American music gear retailers, excluding handheld and field recorders. We came up with a shortlist of 17 products and entered all of them into our music gear database. We then analyzed forum discussion and reviews by users, owners, and audio engineers and processed that information, which included over 5,300 sources, with the Gearank Algorithm to produce the scores out of 100 you see above. We selected the highest rated options in each sub-category of track numbers and recommended them above. For more information about this process see How Gearank Works.
You can see the recorder that was removed from the recommended list above due to this update here.
Comments
Just a quick correction as it
Submitted by rob (not verified) on
Just a quick correction as it was made me upgrade from the Zoom R16 to the R24 - the latter has SIX phantom powered channels, not four! It should also probably be noted that the bit rate is either 16 or 24 - mostly pertinent because at 24 you can't use the built-in effects features.
Thank you Rob - I have
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Thank you Rob - I have updated the Zoom R24 description to show that it has 6 inputs with phantom power.
According to the R24 manual, the limitation on effects is when using it as an Audio Interface - you can only use the effects in this mode with the sampling rate at 16-bit/44.1 kHz.
I want to note for buyers to
Submitted by Jeff Stockton (not verified) on
I want to note for buyers to be aware the Zoom recorders, either 16 or 24 track recorders do not have the ability to use a footswitch. Therefore for punching in and out is a deal breaker and I chose the Tascam 24 for this reason. Who wants to set auto points everytime to fix a spot? I use punch in tool for writing solos and experimenting so it's an important tool for me.
I had the same issue with my
Submitted by Ed Ham (not verified) on
I had the same issue with my Zoom 24... if there was only ONE thing more I wish it had... it would be a foot-pedal punch in. This mark in/out thing gets old right off the bat. Otherwise it's a great recorder!
Hi, nice article. The Zoom
Submitted by Peter Strietman (not verified) on
Hi, nice article. The Zoom R16 is actually an 8in/2out usb audio interface (same as the R24),
Cheers
I got my R16 to record 8
Submitted by Martin C (not verified) on
I got my R16 to record 8 tracks simultaneously into the computer using Reaper.
The Tascam knobs and faders
Submitted by Music Teacher (not verified) on
The Tascam knobs and faders are from a material that after two years of use starts to fall apart. Bought a DR24SD in 2013 en after 3 years of use the rubber starts to like melt or crack away.
I do like the tascams alot,
Submitted by Vince (not verified) on
I do like the tascams alot, but i've had lots of issues with the buttons failing because little switches inside wear out fast.
really frustrating..
Hi there I notice that the
Submitted by Deano (not verified) on
Hi there I notice that the Boss BR-800 Multitrack Digital Recording Studio is not mentioned in your review. Please can you provide me with the pros and cons....I thought it was a great bit of kit?
Hi Deano,
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Hi Deano,
The Boss BR-800 was included in our research but it didn't have high enough scores to be included in this guide when it was published.
It didn't miss by much so there is a chance it might be included when we next update this guide - in the meantime you can see its Gearank score in our Music Gear Database here.
Thanks Jason, it looks (as a
Submitted by Deano (not verified) on
Thanks Jason, it looks (as a layman) the easiest to use, I am a not sure what to buy as this is the 1st time Ive bought a recording device. Thanks for the link BTW.
Hi Deano, which is the best
Submitted by Ads (not verified) on
Hi Deano, which is the best device that is compatible with pro tools 12? Would have loved to have got the Zoom R16 but it doesn't work with Pro Tools.
And yet none of those
Submitted by SEAN (not verified) on
And yet none of those recorders supports MIDI. You can't sync multiple passes from a drum machine or sequencer, etc. Deal breaker for some of us. :'(
I contacted a few of the
Submitted by Jason Horton on
I contacted a few of the manufactures to see if there were any undocumented features that might enable syncing - both Zoom and Tascam got back to me but external syncing isn't possible with their current recorders.
Tascam did point out that the original DP-24 and DP-32 had the ability to MIDI sync with external devices, but that was removed in the 24SD and 32SD models.
If you want to sync you'll either have to get one of those older Tascam models, or do what we did in the old days of tape machines where we'd record SMPTE time code on one of the tracks and sync via that - this is what my band used to do.
Here's an article explaining syncing with audio recordings using SMPTE: Getting Recording Devices In Sync: The Basics Of Timecode And Synchronization
No solution fills all the
Submitted by Lumpy McPhoomph (not verified) on
No solution fills all the requirements, but - I opted, last year, to purchase a used Yamaha AW-1600, and because I have a dedicated Studio PC (not connected to the internet)for mixing and mastering, I've bypassed some of those issues common to the stand-alone DAW. In addition, it features full midi sync-ing. Again, not perfect, but 'perfectly fine' for my needs...
Great information here, I am
Submitted by Jessie (not verified) on
Great information here, I am glad I popped in to check things out. Am in the process of getting a multi track recorder, and for me, and me needs, the Zoom r16 is the one I will get for sure, thx again!!
I have a Zoom R24 and it's a
Submitted by Mark Ash (not verified) on
I have a Zoom R24 and it's a great bit of kit for the price. However I still feel I get better results from my Boss BR1600 which I prefer to use.
Boss BR1600 is best of
Submitted by Vlado Bartolic (not verified) on
Boss BR1600 is best of
It was a good machine about
Submitted by Jason Horton on
It was a good machine about 14 years ago - still worth considering if you find one second hand for a good price, but it uses a built-in hard drive and CDRW drive rather than the SD cards that current ones use.
Does the tascam dp32 sd have
Submitted by NURREDIN (not verified) on
Does the tascam dp32 sd have the capabilities of panning the stereo tracks to different locations in the mix?
You can synchronize two Zoom
Submitted by George Taus (not verified) on
You can synchronize two Zoom R16's via a simple USB cable for 32 tracks of playback and 16 tracks of simultaneous recording. The R16 can also run on batteries. No midi input or rhythm machine on the R16 was a deal breaker for me, at the time, and I ended up paying more for the older Zoom HD16 which had both.
I'm a Huge Tascam fan - got
Submitted by bill (not verified) on
I'm a Huge Tascam fan - got lots of their products and recorders throughout the years. Currently using the 32sd primarily - nice unit. There are going to be some limitations due to price point, and that's ok. I still enjoy playing around with the old tape machines though.
I tried using digital multi
Submitted by Robert Szymanski (not verified) on
I tried using digital multi track recorders.very frustrating to me and I wished 4 -8 track tape recorder make a comeback! Recording life was easier for me...
I have the Tascam DP-24 and
Submitted by Nash (not verified) on
I have the Tascam DP-24 and it's amazing after 20 years of Sonar on PC, these work flawlessly EVERY time I use it. Saves on crash.(Even saves last 10 undos after crash:)
Should mention the Roland. If anyone aver makes one with automation and automated faders(with memory after crash) that would be the perfect machine.
Does any one know of you can
Submitted by Dony Anders (not verified) on
Does any one know if you can use the r24 and the r16 together as a slave to the r24?
Yes..I have both and use the
Submitted by Curtis Johnson (not verified) on
Yes..I have both and use the R24 as the master...40 tracks and works great!
Why no mention of Roland? Don
Submitted by Rick 'BlueRick... (not verified) on
Why no mention of Roland? Don't they compete in this market anymore. I have several that work pretty well.
Roland does still compete in
Submitted by Jason Horton on
Roland does still compete in this market under their Boss brand including the Boss BR BR-80 and the Boss BR-800.
They used to compete with the larger Tascam models with now discontinued recorders like the Roland VS-2000CD.
Just tried a Tascam 008.
Submitted by Peter A Bruce (not verified) on
Just tried a Tascam 008. Kinda quiet, no FX, unimpressive reverb. MY biggest problem: it displays time m/s/fr when i need Measure/beat, for accurate editing. Some ads don't specify. RRRRR!!!
Why in the world would these
Submitted by Jesse (not verified) on
Why in the world would these companies start eliminating midi when most of the old AND new music devises do?
A deal breaker for many. The world is creeping more and more towards the insane Common sense is out the door!
The missing of Midi is a real
Submitted by Gerrit, Germany (not verified) on
The missing of Midi is a real hoax . Homerecording is the use of sequencers and Drummachines !
Maybe it will come back if the army of reissues of Vintage drumboxes and synths will enter the market ... Catched a Tascam dp24 Vers. 1.0 for me !
It seems crazy to me that
Submitted by Bob (not verified) on
It seems crazy to me that what used to be standard features are no longer incorporated on the latest models, e.g. MIDI, mixing automation/scene memory, punch in/out footswitch.
We should be getter more features, not less.
As a result of our August
Submitted by Jason Horton on
As a result of our August 2019 update the following recorder came off our recommended list above, but you can still read our analysis of it: Zoom R24.
The Zoom R24 has up to 6
Submitted by Trevor Brawn (not verified) on
The Zoom R24 has up to 6 phantom-powered inputs. The R24 page is still out-of-date in this respect. Also, I found the R24 (and presumably R16) preamps inadequate for distant acoustic sources, e.g. group of unamplified singers or room mic for a solo piano, even with condensers. After adding a FocusRite Scarlett into the gain chain, everything worked much better though.
Thanks for the article. I
Submitted by Richard J. Sullivan (not verified) on
Thanks for the article. I would be interested to know about the drum programming that each one offers
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