Tascam Digital Production Environment SX-1 Quick Start Guide

							Digital Production Environment 
QUICK START GUIDE
CAUTION: TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT
REMOVE  COVER (OR BACK).  NO  USER-SERVICEABLE  PARTS
INSIDE. REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to alert the user to the pres-
ence of important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature
accompanying  the  appliance. The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert
the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the product’s enclosure
that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
This appliance has a serial number
located on the rear panel. Please record
the model number and serial number
and retain them for your records.
Model number
Serial numberWARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK
HAZARD, DO NOT EXPOSE THIS 
APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR MOISTURE.
9101448000 
						

							2 TASCAM SX-1 Quick Start Guide
Important Safety Precautions
IMPORTANT (for U.K. Customers)
DO NOT cut off the mains plug from this equipment.
If the plug fitted is not suitable for the power points in your home or
the cable is too short to reach a power point, then obtain an
appropriate safety approved extension lead or consult your dealer.
If nonetheless the mains plug is cut off, remove the fuse
 and dispose
of the plug
 immediately, to avoid a possible shock hazard by
inadvertent connection to the mains supply.
If this product is not provided with a mains plug, or one has to be
fitted, then follow the instructions given below:
IMPORTANT: The wires in this mains lead are coloured in
accordance with the following code:
GREEN-AND-YELLOW: EARTH
BLUE :NEUTRAL
BROWN :LIVE
WARNING: This apparatus must be earthed.
As the colours of the wires in the mains lead of this apparatus may
not correspond with the coloured markings identifying the terminals
in your plug proceed as follows:
The wire which is coloured GREEN-and-YELLOW must be
connected to the terminal in the plug which is marked by the letter
E or by the safety earth symbol ç or coloured GREEN or GREEN-
and-YELLOW.
The wire which is coloured BLUE must be connected to the terminal
which is marked with the letter N or coloured BLACK.
The wire which is coloured BROWN must be connected to the
terminal which is marked with the letter L or coloured RED.
When replacing the fuse only a correctly rated approved type should
be used and be sure to re-fit the fuse cover.
IF IN DOUBT — CONSULT A COMPETENT ELECTRICIAN.
TO THE USER
This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class A digital device,
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residental area
is likely to cause harmful interference in which
case the user will be required to correct the
interference at his own expense.
CAUTION
Changes or modifications to this equipment not
expressly approved by TEAC CORPORATION
for compliance could void the user’s authority to
operate this equipment.
For the consumers in Europe
WARNING
This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment, this
product may cause radio interference in which case the user
may be required to take adequate measures.
Pour les utilisateurs en Europe
AVERTISSEMENT
Il s’agit d’un produit de Classe A. Dans un environnement
domestique, cet appareil peut provoquer des interférences
radio, dans ce cas l’utilisateur peut être amené à prendre
des mesures appropriées.
Für Kunden in Europa
Warnung
Dies is eine Einrichtung, welche die Funk-Entstörung nach
Klasse A besitzt. Diese Einrichtung kann im Wohnbereich
Funkstörungen versursachen ; in diesem Fall kann vom
Betrieber verlang werden, angemessene Maßnahmen
durchzuführen und dafür aufzukommen.
 For U.S.A
The equipment draws nominal non-operating power from the
AC outlet with its POWER switch in the off position. 
						

							 TASCAM SX-1 Quick Start Guide 3
CAUTION:
…Read all of these Instructions.
…Save these Instructions for later use.
…Follow all Warnings and Instructions marked on the audio
equipment.
1) Read Instructions — All the safety and operating instructions
should be read before the product is operated.
2) Retain Instructions — The safety and operating instructions
should be retained for future reference.
3) Heed Warnings — All warnings on the product and in the operating
instructions should be adhered to.
4) Follow Instructions — All operating and use instructions should be
followed.
5) Cleaning — Unplug this product from the wall outlet before clean-
ing. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for
cleaning.
6) Attachments — Do not use attachments not recommended by the
product manufacturer as they may cause hazards.
7) Water and Moisture — Do not use this product near water — for
example, near a bath tub, wash bowl, kitchen sink, or laundry tub; in a
wet basement; or near a swimming pool; and the like.
8) Accessories — Do not place this product on an unstable cart, stand,
tripod, bracket, or table. The product may fall, causing serious injury to a
child or adult, and serious damage to the product. Use only with a cart,
stand, tripod, bracket, or table recommended by the manufacturer, or sold
with the product. Any mounting of the product should follow the manu-
facturer’s instructions, and should use a mounting accessory recom-
mended by the manufacturer.
9) A product and cart combination should be moved with care. Quick
stops, excessive force, and uneven surfaces may cause the product and
cart combination to overturn.
10) Ve n t i l a t i o n — Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for
ventilation and to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect
it from overheating, and these openings must not be blocked or covered.
The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed,
sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should not be placed in a
built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation
is provided or the manufacturer’s instructions have been adhered to.
11) Power Sources — This product should be operated only from the
type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure
of the type of power supply to your home, consult your product dealer or
local power company. For products intended to operate from battery
power, or other sources, refer to the operating instructions.
12) Grounding or Polarization — This product may be equipped
with a polarized alternating-current line plug (a plug having one blade
wider than the other). This plug will fit into the power outlet only one
way. This is a safety feature. If you are unable to insert the plug fully into
the outlet, try reversing the plug. If the plug should still fail to fit, contact
your electrician to replace your obsolete outlet. Do not defeat the safety
purpose of the polarized plug.
13) Power-Cord Protection — Power-supply cords should be routed
so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed
upon or against them, paying particular attention to cords at plugs, con-
venience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the product.
14) Outdoor Antenna Grounding — If an outside antenna or cable
system is connected to the product, be sure the antenna or cable system is
grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and
built-up static charges. Article 810 of the National Electrical Code,
ANSI/NFPA 70, provides information with regard to proper grounding
of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an
antenna discharge unit, size of grounding conductors, location of
antenna-discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and require-
ments for the grounding electrode.Note to CATV system installer:
This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention
to Section 820-40 of the NEC which provides guidelines for proper
grounding and, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be con-
nected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point of
cable entry as practical.
15) Lightning — For added protection for this product during a light-
ning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of
time, unplug it from the wall outlet and disconnect the antenna or cable
system. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and
power-line surges.
16) Power Lines — An outside antenna system should not be located
in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power
circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When
installing an outside antenna system, extreme care should be taken to
keep from touching such power lines or circuits as contact with them
might be fatal.
17) Overloading — Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or
integral convenience receptacles as this can result in risk of fire or elec-
tric shock.
18) Object and Liquid Entry — Never push objects of any kind into
this product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltage
points or short-out parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never
spill liquid of any kind on the product.
19) Servicing — Do not attempt to service this product yourself as
opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or
other hazards. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
20) Damage Requiring Service — Unplug this product from the
wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified service personnel under the
following conditions:
a)when the power-supply cord or plug is damaged.
b)if liquid has been spilled, or objects have fallen into the product.
c)if the product has been exposed to rain or water.
d)if the product does not operate normally by following the operating
instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating
instructions as an improper adjustment of other controls may result in
damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to
restore the product to its normal operation.
e)if the product has been dropped or damaged in any way.
f )when the product exhibits a distinct change in performance – this
indicates a need for service.
21) Replacement Parts — When replacement parts are required, be
sure the service technician has used replacement parts specified by the
manufacturer or have the same characteristics as the original part. 
Unauthorized substitutions may result in fire, electric shock, or other
hazards.
22) Safety Check — Upon completion of any service or repairs to this
product, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine
that the product is in proper operating condition.
23) Wall or Ceiling Mounting — The product should be mounted to a
wall or ceiling only as recommended by the manufacturer.
24) Heat — The product should be situated away from heat sources such
as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifi-
ers) that produce heat.
ANTENNA
LEAD IN
WIRE
ANTENNA
DISCHARGE UNIT
(NEC SECTION 810-20)
GROUNDING CONDUCTORS
(NEC SECTION 810-21)
GROUND CLAMPS
POWER SERVICE GROUNDING
ELECTRODE SYSTEM
(NEC ART 250. PART H)
NEC - NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODEELECTRIC
SERVICE
EQUIPMENT
Example of Antenna Grounding as per
National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70
GROUND
CLAMP
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS 
						

							4 TASCAM SX-1 Quick Start Guide 
SAFETY INFORMATION
This product has been designed and manufactured according to FDA regulations title 21, CFR, chapter 1, subchapter J, based on
the Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act of 1968, and is classified as a class 1 laser product. There is no hazardous invisi-
ble laser radiation during operation because invisible laser radiation emitted inside of this product is completely confined in the
protective housings.
The label required in this regulation is shown in 1.
CAUTION
- DO NOT REMOVE THE PROTECTIVE HOUSING USING A SCREWDRIVER.
- USE OF CONTROLS OR ADJUSTMENTS OR PERFORMANCE OF PROCEDURES OTHER THAN THOSE SPECIFIED HEREIN MAY
RESULT IN HAZARDOUS RADIATION EXPOSURE.
- IF YOU SHOULD EXPERIENCE ANY PROBLEMS WITH THIS PRODUCT THAT CANNOT BE RESOLVED WITH THE TROUBLE-
SHOOTING SECTION LATER IN THIS MANUAL, CONTACT A TEAC AUTHORIZED SERVICE AGENCY.  DO NOT CONTINUE TO
USE THE PRODUCT UNTIL THE PROBLEM IS RESOLVED.
Optical pickup : Type: KRS-202A or KRS-220B
Manufacturer: SONY Corporation
Laser output: Less than 0.1 mW (play) and 32 mW
(record) on the objective lens
Wavelength: 777 - 787 nm
1 
						

							Table of Contents
 TASCAM SX-1 Quick Start Guide 5
Chapter 1 – Introduction
SX-1 Standard Features .................................. 6
Unpacking ....................................................... 7
Box Contents ................................................... 7
Registration ..................................................... 7
Options ............................................................ 7
Support and Updates ..................................... 7
Using These Manuals ................................. 8
Quick Start Guide............................................ 8
Owners Manual ............................................. 8
Using the Internet........................................... 8
Documentation Conventions ......................... 8
Hot Tips  ....................................................... 8
Operating Conventions .............................. 9
Multi-Function Keys........................................ 9
Virtual Channel Pots ....................................... 9
VGA Screen Navigation .................................. 9
LCD Screen Navigation ................................... 10
LCD or VGA...................................................... 10
Fader Banks ..................................................... 11
Chapter 2 – Getting Started
Speaker Placement ......................................... 13
VGA Monitor Placement................................. 13
Mouse and Keyboard ..................................... 13
Plugging Into Power ....................................... 13
Dont Interrupt!  .......................................... 13
“Safe” startup  ............................................. 13
Shutting down your SX-1  .......................... 14
Being Grounded .......................................... 14
Avoiding Ground Loops  ............................. 14
Chapter 3 – Making Connections
Getting Sound ............................................ 15
Phones ............................................................. 15
Studio .............................................................. 15
Control Room .................................................. 15
Master Stereo Outs......................................... 16
Basic Wiring Diagram ................................. 16
Important Rear Connections ...................... 17
Loading the Demo Song ............................ 18
Loading the Audio Demo Song ..................... 18
Chapter 4 – MIDI Basics
Connecting MIDI ......................................... 20
Loading the MIDI Song Demo ................... 21
MIDI Instrument Track Assignment ............... 21
MIDI Instrument Track Assignment ............... 21
Chapter 5 – Essential Moves
Back Up and Shutdown ............................. 23
Backing Up ...................................................... 23
From the VGA screen ...................................... 23
From the LCD screen ....................................... 24
Shutdown Procedure ................................. 24
Chapter 6 – Taking Control
Audio Monitoring........................................... 26
Information Display ....................................... 26
Mix Control ..................................................... 26
Settings Management.................................... 26
MIDI ................................................................. 27
Editing ............................................................. 27
Transport and Data Entry .............................. 27
Chapter 7 – Basic Moves
Getting Around ........................................... 28
A Quick Explanation of a Few Important 
Terms ........................................................ 28
Slot .............................................................. 28
Take ............................................................. 28
Clip .............................................................. 28
Channel ....................................................... 28
Mutes and Solos  ......................................... 29
Creating a New Project ............................... 29
On the VGA ..................................................... 29
On the LCD ...................................................... 30
To Record an Audio Track.......................... 30
On the VGA ..................................................... 30
On the LCD ...................................................... 31
Recording MIDI............................................ 32
On the VGA ..................................................... 32
On the LCD ...................................................... 32
Using Locate Points and Autopunch ......... 33
A word about the CAPTURE key  ............... 33
Setting a locate point..................................... 33
Recalling a Locate Point ................................. 33
Using Autopunch ........................................ 33
Updating the SX-1 software ...................... 34
Chapter 8 – A quick look at a few 
shortcuts
Make a quick headphone mix. ................... 35
Make 5 different mixes for different players 
quickly....................................................... 35
Quickly move all of your faders (on the current 
layer) back to unity. ................................. 35
Quickly make a Fader Group ...................... 35
Quickly Solo-Safe a channel (or channels) 35
Quickly link a pair of channels on the 
console ...................................................... 36
Quickly mixdown a number of sources to a 
stereo pair ................................................ 36
Quickly use the LCD and the VGA screens to 
show separate things .............................. 36
Track a drum kit, even though you have no 
free mixer channels ................................. 36
Quickly select every MIDI note on a MIDI 
Take........................................................... 37
Quickly name a number of similar types of 
things ........................................................ 37 
						

							6 TASCAM SX-1 Quick Start Guide
Chapter 1 – Introduction
Congratulations on the purchase of your new SX-1 
fully integrated digital production environment. We 
are pleased you chose the SX-1 for your recording 
needs. Combining a hard disk recorder with powerful 
audio editing features, an automated digital mixer, 
MIDI sequencer, DSP plug-in effects, and multi-for-
mat mastering capabilities, the SX-1 will meet all your recording and production needs, without requir-
ing an external computer.
Designed and built to exacting standards, the SX-1 
will give you many years of outstanding service—the 
kind of quality and performance youve come to 
expect from TASCAM.
SX-1 Standard Features
After choosing the SX-1 for your integrated audio 
workstation, no doubt you are familiar with its many 
standard features. However, the SX-1 is packed with 
so many great features, we thought to make a list 
(just in case you missed something).
Recording
• 16 tracks at 24-bit/48kHz
• 40 GB hard drive
• 999 virtual tracks per project (freely interchange-
able with other projects on the drive)
Mixing
• 32 x 8 x 8 digital mixing console
• Comprehensive dynamic automation
• 17 (16 channels and one master) 100 mm, touch-
sensitive, moving faders
• 16 fader layers (seven freely assignable by user)
• 16 high quality mic preamps with phantom 
power
• Highly flexible signal routing
Mastering
• Record 2-track masters and surround stems 
directly to the internal HD
• Master directly to CDR
Plug-ins
• Effects by TC|Works, Antares and TASCAM
• All effect parameters are fully automatableEditing
• Comprehensive waveform editing via an external 
VGA or the big, onboard LCD.
• Audio is recorded as either SDII or Broadcast 
WAV files (dependent on drive format)
• Unlimited Undo
MIDI Sequencer
• 128-track MIDI sequencer
• Real time and step record modes
• Comprehensive MIDI note editing
• Non-destructive Quantize and Transpose
• Accurate MIDI playback in reverse
Monitoring
• Independent Studio and Control Room outputs
• Highly flexible Talkback Mic routing
• Two headphone outs with individual controls
I/O and Peripheral Connections
• Two S/PDIF connections
• ADAT Optical (1 pair)
• 3 discrete expansion ports for added DSP cards 
and more I/O
• PS/2 keyboard and mouse
Communication and Sync
• SMPTE In and SMPTE Out
• Word Clock In, Out, and Thru
• Video Sync In and Thru
• Sony P2 (9-pin)
• 100BASE-T Ethernet
• Four MIDI Outs and two MIDI Ins (one input is 
dedicated to receiving MTC)
Storage
• UltraWide SCSI 2 port (for more recording time 
and external storage)
• 5.25 Drive Bay (for adding an additional front 
loading media drive) 
						

							Chapter 1 –Introduction
 TASCAM SX-1 Quick Start Guide 7
Unpacking
The SX-1 was carefully packed at our factory in a 
special box to avoid damage during shipping. Still, 
damage can occur if the box was mishandled or 
dropped. If you notice any visible damage to the SX-
1 itself, notify the TASCAM dealer where you pur-
chased your SX-1 as soon as possible.
WARNING
The SX-1 is a heavy machine and we strongly recom-
mend not lifting it out of the box by yourself. To avoid 
injury, have at least one other person assist you in mov-
ing the SX-1 to its desired location.
We also suggest holding onto the original box, and 
all of its associated packing materials, that the unit 
came in. This will ensure that, in the unlikely event 
you need to ship the SX-1 back to TASCAM for ser-
vicing, you will have all the necessary shipping 
materials.
Box Contents
Before beginning to set up your SX-1, make sure that 
your unit came with all the proper paperwork and 
connections. Theres nothing more frustrating than 
trying to figure out where a missing part is in the 
middle of hooking up your studio.Your SX-1 carton should contain the following 
items:
• SX-1 Digital Production Environment
• IEC Type II Power Cable
•Software CD-ROM
• CD-ROM (documentation)
• PS/2 keyboard and mouse
• Quick Start Guide
• Owners Manual
• Warranty Card and other important papers
Registration
Please be sure to register your new SX-1 by complet-
ing and mailing the units Warranty Card. If you dont 
register your machine we will not be able to inform 
you of software upgrades. We are constantly working to improve and expand the SX-1 and we want to 
make sure your machine is always up to date. Regis-
tering your SX-1 will ensure that you are always get-
ting the most out of your unit.
Options
On top of all the SX-1s wonderful stock features, 
there are also a wealth of expansion card options 
available. Listed here are just some of the current 
options (for pricing and availability, check with your 
authorized TASCAM dealer).I/O Expansion Cards
• TDIF digital I/O up to 24-channels (IF-TD/DM)
• ADAT Optical I/O up to 24 more channels (IF-
AD/DM)
• AES/EBU I/O up to 24-channels (IF-AE/DM)
• Analog I/O up to 24 more channels (IF-AN/DM)
Support and Updates
The SX-1 is easily updated via its onboard CD-ROM 
drive. TASCAM will mail registered owners operat-
ing system (OS) updates on CD-ROM when they 
become available. Details for updating your units OS 
are covered here and in the Owners Manual. And of 
course, if you do run into problems, as a registered 
owner you have one of the best technical support 
teams in the industry at your disposal.You may also want to visit the TASCAM Web site 
(http://www.tascam.com) for late-breaking news and 
details regarding the SX-1.
TASCAMs support staff can answer all of your ques-
tions and help you troubleshoot any problems that 
may arise. 
						

							Chapter 1 –Introduction
8 TASCAM SX-1 Quick Start Guide
Using These Manuals
There are two different manuals for the SX-1: a 
Quick Start Guide (this manual), and an Owners 
Manual. Both manuals come standard with the SX-1. 
If you are missing a manual, you should contact the authorized TASCAM dealer where you purchased 
your SX-1. Below are descriptions of the manuals, 
their contents, and purpose.
Quick Start Guide
This guide covers all the basics on setting up the SX-
1: unpacking, connecting speakers, listening to the 
demo, getting recording levels, and hooking up 
MIDI. If you are not familiar with setting up record-ing equipment (and even if you are) beginning with 
this manual is a good idea. For a more detailed expla-
nation of individual features and functions, you 
should refer to the Owners Manual.
Owners Manual
The Owners Manual describes all of the SX-1s 
many features, controls, and parameters in detail.
This manual does not explain how to set up the SX-1 
or provide many tutorials on how to use specific functions; for that you should refer to this Quick Start 
Guide. If you find yourself looking for an explana-
tion about a specific knob or parameter, the Owners 
Manual is the booklet to use.
Using the Internet
The TASCAM Web site (http://www.tascam.com) is also 
a great source of information about updates, hints 
and tips, etc. regarding the SX-1. Visit this site regularly to learn more about the SX-1.
Documentation Conventions
The names for all of the SX-1s keys, knobs, and con-
nections are printed in this manual exactly as their 
labels appear on the SX-1 itself. For example, the 
Play button is written 
PLAY. In the case where a key 
has more than one function (for example, a main and 
shift function—the Shifted function is explained on 
“Multi-Function Keys” on page 9), it is written as, 
ENABLED/ALL INPUT (the main function is listed 
first and the shifted function second).
The SX-1s face is organized into different areas for 
each of its various functions. These areas are labeled 
and their names also appear in this manual exactly as 
they are printed on the SX-1 (for example, 
EDITING). Areas of the SX-1 that are not labeled, but 
have a specific purpose, are written in conventional 
title form (such as, Faders).
In order to differentiate LED labels from area and 
control labels, LED names are in angle brackets (for 
example, 
). And in order to distinguish soft-
ware buttons and menu names that appear on the 
LCD or the external VGA displays from their hard-
ware counterparts, these names are in the following typeface (like, the 
LOAD button or the EQ LIBRARY 
window).
All the manuals and guides for the SX-1 adhere to 
these documentation conventions. Diagrams and 
illustrations are also presented whenever possible to 
augment the manuals text descriptions.
The SX1 utilizes a PS/2 keyboard (the same as a PC 
uses) for some functions, and this keyboard will be 
referred to as “ the PS/2 keyboard” to limit confu-
sion.
Hot Tips Important notes, that are in addition to 
general instructions and definitions, are set apart 
from the manual’s normal text (see the example 
below). These important tips call your attention to 
special situations and offer helpful operating 
suggestions.
TIP
While reading the SX-1 Quick Start Guide, keep your eyes 
peeled for special operating tips and helpful sugges-
tions just like this one. 
						

							Chapter 1 –Introduction
 TASCAM SX-1 Quick Start Guide 9
Operating Conventions
Multi-Function Keys
Some keys have multiple functions. A key’s primary 
function is accessed by simply pressing the key. Sec-
ondary functions are accessed by entering Shift 
mode. Press the 
SHIFT key on the Numeric Keypad, and then press the multi-function key to reach its sec-
ondary function. Think of the 
SHIFT key just like the 
shift key of a standard PS/2 keyboard—it serves a 
similar purpose.
Virtual Channel Pots
The knobs at the top of the channel strips (above the 
faders) are multi-function, infinitely rotating potenti-
ometers (pots for short). Depending on their cur-
rently selected mode (accessed by the 
PA N / V I R T UA L  
CHANNEL
 or CUE keys), these controls serve as a 
channels pan pot, EQ, Aux sends or pan for the cue mix. The virtual pots are surrounded by a ring of 
LEDs which indicate their current setting. For exam-
ple, a pan pot that is hard left will have its far left 
LED illuminated, or an Aux send that is full open 
will have all of its LEDs lit.
VGA Screen Navigation
Getting around on a connected VGA display is just 
like using a regular computer because the same 
mouse and PS/2 keyboard rules apply. For example, 
use the mouse to click on a field and open a pull 
down menu, and enter names and values in text fields 
with the PS/2 keyboard. A main menu bar at the top of all the windows allows access to most SX-1 func-
tions. Just as with a computer-based application, you 
can use the main menu bar to change pages, make 
edits, save projects, and set preferences. However, 
the SX-1 also gives you the option of accessing these 
features directly from the mixers control surface. 
						

							Chapter 1 –Introduction
10 TASCAM SX-1 Quick Start Guide
LCD Screen Navigation
The LCD display is surrounded by several knobs and 
buttons. These controls’ functions change according 
to the display on the LCD. We refer to these controls 
as soft knobs and keys because their functions are 
directly related to the SX-1s software.To scroll up/down and left/right in an LCD window, 
use the up/down and left/right arrow keys of the 
Numeric Keypad. To adjust the viewing angle and 
contrast of the LCD, use the small contrast knob 
to the top right of the LCD.
LCD or VGA
You have a choice of using the LCD or an VGA dis-
play as your main screen. The LCD display always 
follows the selection keys in the 
MAIN DISPLAY 
MODES
 section. To have an external VGA follow these keys, press the 
MAIN DISPLAY key above the 
LCD ACCESS section (on the SX-1s slanted front 
panel). The associated 
 LED should 
light.
TIP
The VGA screen can also be changed by pressing ALT 
and a number key on a connected PS/2 keyboard. This 
option is available regardless of the 
MAIN DISPLAY 
key’s setting.