5 Easy Steps to Use Tascam DR-40 Linear Recorder with XLR

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This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to use the Tascam DR-40 Linear Recorder with XLR microphones. The Tascam DR-40 is a portable, high-quality audio recorder that is perfect for recording live music, podcasts, interviews, and other audio projects. It features two XLR inputs, which allow you to connect professional-grade microphones for the best possible sound quality. We will also provide some tips and tricks for getting the most out of your Tascam DR-40.

Getting Started

To get started, you will need the following equipment:

Tascam DR-40 Linear Recorder

Two XLR microphones

XLR cables

Headphones or speakers
*AA batteries (4)

Once you have all of your equipment, you can follow these steps to connect your microphones and start recording:

Turn on the Tascam DR-40.
Connect your XLR microphones to the XLR inputs on the Tascam DR-40.
Connect your headphones or speakers to the headphone/line out jack on the Tascam DR-40.
Insert 4 AA batteries into the battery compartment on the Tascam DR-40.
Press the record button on the Tascam DR-40 to start recording.

Recording Tips

Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your Tascam DR-40:

Use high-quality XLR microphones for the best possible sound quality.

Experiment with the different recording modes to find the one that is best for your project.

Use the built-in limiter to prevent your recordings from clipping.

Monitor your recordings with headphones or speakers to make sure that they sound the way you want them to.

Save your recordings to a computer or other storage device as soon as possible to avoid losing them.

Setting Up Your Tascam DR-40 Linear Recorder

Let’s Dive into Setting up your Tascam DR-40 step by step.

1. Insert Batteries or Connect the AC Adapter

The DR-40 can be powered either by four AA batteries or by the included AC adapter. To insert batteries, open the battery compartment on the bottom of the recorder and insert the batteries as indicated. To connect the AC adapter, plug it into the DC input jack on the side of the recorder and then plug the adapter into a power outlet.

2. Install a microSD Card

The DR-40 records to microSD cards, which are small, removable memory cards. To insert a microSD card, open the card slot on the side of the recorder and insert the card as indicated. The card should click into place when it is properly inserted.

3.Connect a Microphone or Line-Level Signal

The DR-40 has two XLR/TRS combo inputs, which can be used to connect microphones or line-level signals. To connect a microphone, use an XLR cable to connect the microphone to one of the inputs. To connect a line-level signal, use a TRS cable to connect the signal to one of the inputs.

4.Adjust the Input Levels

Once you have connected your microphones or line-level signals, you should adjust the input levels to ensure that the recordings are not too loud or too soft. To adjust the input levels, use the gain knobs on the front of the recorder. Turn the knobs clockwise to increase the gain and counterclockwise to decrease the gain.

5. Start Recording

To start recording, press the record button on the front of the recorder. The recorder will start recording to the microSD card. To stop recording, press the stop button.

6. Playback Recordings

To playback recordings, press the playback button on the front of the recorder. The recorder will start playing back the recording from the beginning. To stop playback, press the stop button.

Audio File Format	Sampling Frequency	Bit Depth
BWF	44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 96 kHz	16-bit, 24-bit
WAV	44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 96 kHz	16-bit, 24-bit
MP3	44.1 kHz, 48 kHz	128 kbps, 192 kbps, 256 kbps, 320 kbps

Connecting XLR Microphones to the Recorder

To connect an XLR microphone to the TASCAM DR-40 Linear Recorder, you will need an XLR cable. Follow these steps:

1. Connect one end of the XLR cable to the XLR input on the back of the recorder.
2. Connect the other end of the XLR cable to the XLR output on the microphone.
3. Turn on the recorder and the microphone.
4. Select the XLR input on the recorder.
5. Adjust the input gain on the recorder to match the output level of the microphone.

Here are some additional tips for connecting XLR microphones to the DR-40:

* Use a high-quality XLR cable to ensure a good connection.
* Make sure that the XLR cable is securely connected to both the recorder and the microphone.
* If you are using a phantom-powered microphone, make sure that the phantom power is turned on on the recorder.
* If you are using a condenser microphone, make sure that it is properly polarized.

Input	Gain Range
XLR	-60 dB to +12 dB
1/8″	-30 dB to +12 dB

Adjusting Input Levels for Optimal Sound

To ensure pristine audio recordings, fine-tuning the input levels of your Tascam DR-40 Linear Recorder is crucial. Here are the steps to achieve optimal levels:

1. Setting Line-Level Input

Connect an external device with a line-level output, such as a mixer or keyboard, to the DR-40’s XLR inputs using XLR cables.
Press the “INPUT SELECT” button and select “LINE” for the relevant channel (left or right).
Adjust the input level using the corresponding knob until the LEVEL meter reads around 0 dB.

2. Setting MIC-Level Input

Connect a microphone with an XLR connector to the DR-40’s XLR inputs.
Press the “INPUT SELECT” button and select “MIC” for the relevant channel.
Set the input level knob to a position that provides a clean, undistorted sound while ensuring adequate signal strength.

3. Using the Limiter and Auto Level Function

Peak Reduction Limiter: Enable the Limiter (left or right) by pressing the corresponding “LIM” button. The limiter prevents signal clipping by reducing the gain when peaks exceed a certain level, ensuring distortion-free recordings.

Auto Level: Activate the Auto Level function (left or right) by pressing the “A.LVL” button. This feature automatically adjusts the input level to maintain an optimal volume, ideal for capturing dynamic sources like vocals or live performances.

Setting Threshold: To configure the Limiter and Auto Level, press the “LIMIT/A. LEVEL” button. Use the rotary encoder to set the threshold level at which the limiter or auto level engages.

Monitoring Levels: Utilize the INPUT LEVEL meters to monitor the pre-limiter signal levels. The OUTPUT LEVEL meters, located on the side panel, indicate the post-limiter or auto level signal levels.

Configuring Recording Settings for Different Audio Sources

XLR Microphone Input

When using XLR microphones, set the input level to “Mic” and adjust the gain settings to match the microphone’s output. For low-level sources, such as condenser microphones, use the +48V phantom power switch to provide additional power to the microphone.

Line-Level Input

For line-level sources such as mixers or sound cards, set the input level to “Line” and adjust the gain settings to ensure a clean signal without distortion. Use balanced cables to connect line-level sources to the XLR inputs to minimize noise and interference.

Guitar Input

For electric guitars, plug the instrument’s output directly into the XLR input, set the input level to “Guitar,” and adjust the gain settings to prevent clipping or distortion. Use a DI box or an adapter with a TRS-to-XLR connector to connect acoustic-electric guitars that have a balanced output.

Stereo Input

To record stereo signals from a mixer or sound card, connect the left and right channels to the two XLR inputs. Set the input level to “Mic” or “Line,” depending on the signal source, and adjust the gain settings to balance the two channels. Use a stereo summing cable to connect the left and right channels to the XLR inputs on the DR-40.

Monitoring Audio Levels During Recording

Monitoring audio levels during recording is crucial to ensure that your recordings are clear and distortion-free. The Tascam DR-40 Linear Recorder offers several options for monitoring audio levels.

Headphones

Connect headphones to the DR-40’s headphone jack for direct monitoring. Adjust the headphone volume knob to the desired level.

Built-In Speakers

The DR-40 has built-in speakers that can be used for quick monitoring. Note that the speakers provide limited volume and accuracy, so headphones are recommended for critical listening.

Line Output

Connect the DR-40’s line output to an external amplifier or studio monitors for more powerful and accurate monitoring. Adjust the output volume control on the DR-40.

Software Monitoring

When using the DR-40 with a computer, you can monitor the audio levels in your recording software. Open the software and select the DR-40 as the audio input device. The audio levels will be displayed in the software’s meters.

Level Adjustments

The DR-40 provides several options for adjusting audio levels:

Control	Function
Input Gain	Adjusts the sensitivity of the XLR inputs.
Limiting	Prevents distortion by automatically reducing the signal level when it reaches a certain threshold.
Auto Level	Automatically adjusts the input gain to maintain a consistent recording level.

Experiment with these controls to find the optimal audio levels for your recordings. Monitor the audio levels closely during recording to avoid clipping or distortion.

Using the Built-In Microphone or External Mics

Using the Built-in Microphone

The DR-40’s built-in microphone is a stereo electret condenser mic that offers excellent sound quality for most recording applications. To use the built-in microphone, simply power on the recorder and start recording.

Using External Mics

The DR-40 also supports the use of external microphones via two XLR/TRS combo inputs. This allows you to connect a wide range of microphones, including condenser mics that require phantom power. To connect an external mic, simply plug it into one of the combo inputs and select the appropriate input settings in the recorder’s menu.

Phantom Power

The DR-40 can provide phantom power to external condenser microphones. Phantom power is a DC voltage that is supplied to the microphone through the XLR cable. To turn on phantom power, press the “Phantom Power” button on the side of the recorder. The phantom power setting is applied to both XLR/TRS combo inputs.

Gain Control

Each XLR/TRS combo input has its own gain control. The gain control allows you to adjust the input level of the microphone. To adjust the gain, turn the knob clockwise or counterclockwise. The gain setting is displayed on the recorder’s LCD screen.

Limiting

The DR-40 features a built-in limiter that can help to prevent audio distortion. The limiter is applied to the input signal before it is recorded. To turn on the limiter, press the “Limiter” button on the side of the recorder. The limiter setting is applied to both XLR/TRS combo inputs.

Mic Settings Table

The following table summarizes the available mic settings for the DR-40:

Setting	Description
Built-in	Uses the built-in stereo electret condenser microphone.
External	Uses external microphones connected to the XLR/TRS combo inputs.
Phantom Power	Provides phantom power to external condenser microphones.
Gain Control	Adjusts the input level of the microphone.
Limiting	Prevents audio distortion by limiting the input signal.

Troubleshooting Common Audio Problems

Input Volume Level Too Low

The input volume level may be set too low. Adjust the gain knob on the Tascam DR-40 to increase the input level. If the input level is still too low, try using a microphone with a higher output level.

Input Volume Level Too High

The input volume level may be set too high. Adjust the gain knob on the Tascam DR-40 to decrease the input level. If the input level is still too high, try using a microphone with a lower output level.

Clipping

Clipping occurs when the input volume level is too high. This can cause distortion and loss of audio quality. To avoid clipping, adjust the gain knob on the Tascam DR-40 to decrease the input level.

Noise

Noise can be caused by a variety of factors, such as electrical interference, improper grounding, or microphone handling noise. To reduce noise, try the following:

Use a balanced microphone cable.
Make sure that all connections are secure.
Ground the Tascam DR-40 to a known ground source.
Use a windscreen to reduce wind noise.

Hum

Hum can be caused by electrical interference from power lines or other electronic equipment. To reduce hum, try the following:

Use a balanced microphone cable.
Make sure that all connections are secure.
Ground the Tascam DR-40 to a known ground source.
Move the Tascam DR-40 away from any potential sources of electrical interference.

Saving and Managing Audio Files

The DR-40 offers multiple ways to save and manage your audio files. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. File Formats

The DR-40 supports WAV (BWF) and MP3 file formats. WAV files are uncompressed and offer the highest quality, while MP3 files are compressed and offer smaller file sizes.

2. Record Modes

The DR-40 offers three record modes:

Stereo: Records in two-channel stereo.

Dual MONO: Records in two separate mono channels.

Dual Stereo: Records in two independent stereo pairs.

3. File Structure

Audio files are saved in a hierarchical file structure on the SD card.

Folders: AUDIO, BWF, MP3

Subfolders: Year, Month, Day

4. File Naming

Audio files are automatically named with a unique ID, timestamp, and file format extension.

5. Transport Controls

Use the transport controls to navigate and manage audio files:

Locate: Find a specific file.
Play/Pause: Start and stop playback.
Rewind/Fast Forward: Move through the file.

6. Display Information

The LCD display shows file name, format, sample rate, bit depth, and other information.

7. Transfer Files

Transfer audio files to a computer using the USB port or by removing the SD card.

8. Additional Features

The DR-40 offers additional features for managing audio files:

Feature	Description
File Split	Splits a large file into smaller chunks.
File Erase	Deletes audio files.
File Rename	Changes the file name.

Transferring Recordings to a Computer

To transfer recordings from the DR-40 to a computer, you will need a USB cable. Once you have connected the DR-40 to your computer, it will appear as a drive on your desktop.

You can then use your computer’s file explorer to drag and drop the recordings from the DR-40 to your computer’s hard drive.

Additional Information

Here are some additional tips for transferring recordings from the DR-40 to a computer:

Make sure that the DR-40 is in the “USB Mode” before connecting it to your computer. To do this, press the “MENU” button on the DR-40, and then select “System” > “USB Mode” > “Computer.”
If you are using a Mac, you may need to install the Tascam USB driver before you can connect the DR-40 to your computer.
Once the DR-40 is connected to your computer, it will appear as a drive on your desktop. The drive will be named “Tascam DR-40.”
You can then use your computer’s file explorer to drag and drop the recordings from the DR-40 to your computer’s hard drive.
Once the recordings have been transferred to your computer, you can disconnect the DR-40 from your computer.

Here is a table summarizing the steps for transferring recordings from the DR-40 to a computer:

Step	Description
1	Connect the DR-40 to your computer using a USB cable.
2	Make sure that the DR-40 is in the “USB Mode.”
3	The DR-40 will appear as a drive on your desktop.
4	Use your computer’s file explorer to drag and drop the recordings from the DR-40 to your computer’s hard drive.
5	Once the recordings have been transferred, disconnect the DR-40 from your computer.

Advanced Techniques for Professional-Quality Recordings:

1. Optimize Microphone Placement

Position the XLR microphone strategically to capture the desired sound source with clarity and minimize unwanted noise. Use the microphone’s polar pattern (e.g., cardioid, omnidirectional) to focus on the target sound.

2. Utilize Sound Field Control

Employ sound field control techniques, such as using reflectively angled panels or acoustic curtains, to reduce unwanted sounds and optimize the recording environment for crystal-clear audio.

3. Use a High-Quality XLR Cable

Connect the XLR microphone to the DR-40 using a high-quality XLR cable to minimize noise and ensure optimal signal transmission.

4. Set the Correct Gain Levels

Adjust the DR-40’s input gain settings to achieve the appropriate signal level without distorting the audio. Use the built-in level meter to monitor the audio levels and adjust accordingly.

5. Enable Phantom Power

If using a condenser microphone, enable phantom power on the DR-40 to provide the necessary voltage for the microphone to operate.

6. Utilize Built-In Filters

Experiment with the DR-40’s built-in filters, such as the low-cut filter, to reduce noise and enhance the sonic clarity of the recording.

7. Record in WAV or BWF Format

Capture high-quality, uncompressed audio by recording in WAV or BWF format. These formats preserve the full dynamic range and resolution of the original audio source.

8. Use an External Mixer

Connect an external mixer to the DR-40’s XLR inputs to mix multiple audio sources, adjust levels, and apply effects before recording.

9. Leverage the Multi-Track Recording Feature

Record multiple sound sources simultaneously on separate tracks using the DR-40’s multi-track recording feature. This allows for flexible editing and mixing options.

10. Employ Advanced Post-Processing Techniques

Utilize audio editing software to enhance the recorded audio by applying noise reduction algorithms, EQ, and compression to refine the sound and achieve professional-caliber results.

Sample Rate	Bit Depth
44.1 kHz	16 or 24 bit
48 kHz	16 or 24 bit
96 kHz	24 bit
192 kHz	24 bit

How to Use Tascam DR-40 Linear Recorder with XLR

The Tascam DR-40 is a portable linear PCM recorder that can be used to record audio in a variety of applications, from field recording to music production. It features two XLR inputs that can be used to connect microphones or other audio devices.

To use the XLR inputs on the DR-40, you will need to connect an XLR cable to each input. The XLR cable should be connected to the microphone or other audio device on one end, and to the DR-40 on the other end.

Once the XLR cables are connected, you can set the input level for each channel using the gain knobs on the front of the DR-40. The gain knobs should be set so that the input level is at or below the 0 dB mark on the level meters.

You can then start recording by pressing the record button on the front of the DR-40. The DR-40 will record the audio from the XLR inputs to a WAV file on the SD card.