Tascam Multitrack Dat Recorder Da-38 Preliminary Manual

							CD-Quality Digital Masters and Full DA-88
Compatibility
The sonic quality of the DA-38 will blow you away! The great
sound that earned TASCAMÕs DA-88 the coveted Emmy Award
is now yours with the DA-38. Delivering a 20Hz ~ 20kHz fre-
quency response and a dynamic range that exceeds 92dB, the
DA-38 embraces the sonic excellence youÕve come to expect
from TASCAM. With 18-bit, 64 times oversampling Delta-Sigma
A/D converters and 20-bit, 8 times oversampling Delta-Sigma
D/A converters, the DA-38 leverages next-generation technology
in A/D and D/A design and components.
The DA-38 provides you with the two industry-standard sampling
rates (44.1kHz and 48kHz) ensuring you full compatibility with
other digital equipment. You never have to worry about sample
rate conversion and are assured the most faithful sound repro-
duction. Even better, DA-38 tapes are fully compatible and inter-
changeable with DA-88 MDMs, and any combination of
recorders can be linked together to provide a lightning fast digital
recording system totaling 16 machines and 128 tracks. So you
can start with 8 tracks today, and add 8 tracks or more tomor-
row. YouÕll never outgrow your DA-38 MDM recording system.
Functionality that Musicians Expect
The saying, ÒThe right tool for the jobÓ has never meant more
to the musician than it does with the DA-38. Fact is, TASCAM
design engineers have painstakingly designed and assembled
the DA-38Õs features to provide an unprecedented level of oper-
ational ease for the personal or project studio music environ-
ment.  For example, the DA-38Õs Digital Track Copy function
enables you to perform assembly composite edits that provide
tremendous creative freedom. Imagine recording three separate
ÒtakesÓ of a guitar solo on three different tracks and then Òasse-
DA-38
Multitrack DAT Recorder
page 1 of 5
The Modular Digital Multitrack Designed With
the Musician In Mind
YouÕve been thirsting for digital recording capabilities
Ñ- but the price has been out of reach, or other formats
havenÕt had the features or reliability you need. Until
now. TASCAMÕs exciting new DA-38 8-track modular
digital multitrack (MDM) ushers in an entirely new era
of high-quality, maximum value, feature-packed digital
recording Ñ all at a price thatÕs right.
The DA-38 is an 8-track modular digital recorder that
utilizes the same preferred Hi-8mm format that has
captured the hearts and imagination of post-production
professionals the world over. The Hi-8mm format gives
you 1 hour and 48 minutes of recording time on a stan-
dard 120 Hi-8 videocassette tape and up to 116 minutes
with many of the newer audio cassettes specifically
designed for Hi-8 MDM recorders. Unlike other digital
formats, the freedom to record both live performances
or orchestral compositions without restrictive time con-
straints is just one of many reasons youÕll want this new
recorder.
Combining a rugged transport, ergonomic design and a
feature set specifically designed for musicians, the
DA-38 also offers a full complement of optional acce-
ssories that will let you get more out of (and into) your
recordings. Things like remote controllers, MIDI Machine
Control (MMC) interfaces, and digital interfaces for
communication with other digital equipment. The DA-38
digital multitrack system has the ability to grow in step
with your needs and your aspirations.
P R E L I M I N A R Y 
						

							MMC-38 MIDI Machine Control interface to the DA-38, you get
the best of both worlds Ñ digital recording for your vocals,
guitar, etc. and virtual MIDI tracks for keyboards, samplers and
percussion modules Ñ  all fully synchronized. The MMC-38
takes the absolute time (ABS) from the DA-38 and outputs it at
the SMPTE frame rate of your choice Ñ either straight SMPTE
or MIDI Timecode (MTC). No matter what your MIDI inter-
face/patchbay needs to see, the MMC-38 covers all the bases.
Since the MMC-38 responds to incoming MMC control messag-
es, you can use your computer/sequencer to act as a Òcommand
centralÓ for a fully integrated tape/MIDI environment. For
example, ask your sequencer to locate to measure #76 and
begin playback and something amazing happens. YouÕll watch
the DA-38 advance or rewind as needed to the corresponding
ABS position and then automatically commence playback Ñ with
your MIDI system locked right on!  Want to loop between meas-
ures 9 and 17? No problem. Your sequencer will tell the DA-38
what to do, and your entire system will function as one. You can
arm and disarm any track you wish, automate punch in/out, and
the recorder will automatically stop at the songÕs end.  MIDI
inte gration has never been easier thanks to the DA-38 and the
MMC-38.
All Functions Easily Accessible From the
Front Panel
The DA-38Õs operating system is a breeze to navigate. With a
clearly defined combination of SHIFT and MENU functions,
youÕll have the recorder configured to your needs in moments.
Chances are you wonÕt need to break the crease on your
ownerÕs manual to get you going.
If youÕre using multiple DA-38s, the MACHINE ID number is
simply defined from the front panel. Similarly, you can capture,
trim and locate positions on tape with ease. Finding the test tone
oscillator or defining pre-roll are all right there under the MENU
key. To make things even easier, all SHIFT parameters are
coded in blue. The DA-38Õs intuitive design wonÕt slow you down.
ItÕs the perfect machine for musicians.
mblingÓ them into one unified Òbest-ofÓ performance onto a fourth
track. With the DA-38, this capability is a reality. The Digital
Track Copy function can be used within a single unit or between
two units. Even more amazing is how easy you can do this with
the DA-38Õs simplified menu-driven interface.
Another innovative design feature is the DA-38Õs built-in
Electronic Patchbay. This intuitive function gives you the
freedom to easily route any input to any track Ñ right from the
front panel. No need to mess with patch cables or the rear panel!
Perhaps youÕve had your eye on a great sounding mic preamp
(such as TASCAMÕs MA-8!) to help you get the best sounding
vocal tracks possible. By using the DA-38Õs Electronic Patchbay,
you can permanently leave the mic pre amp connected, letÕs say,
to input #1 and still have the freedom to route that input signal to
any track you want!
Another musician oriented feature built into the DA-38 is Track
Advance and Delay. This lets you slide individual tracks in order
to obtain the right ÒfeelÓ for your music. Want the drums to lay
back a bit?  Delay those tracks to your liking. Want the drums to
Òpush the feel of the song? Go ahead and advance them.
Range for track advance/delay is -200 ~ 7200 samples.
YouÕll even find a handy test tone generator built into the
DA-38. With this feature, you can calibrate the meters of your
mixer to make certain that they align with those on the DA-38.
By taking advantage of this feature, you can ensure that your
signals levels are the same both at the board and the recorder.
Since the tone is referenced to A-440, you might even opt to use
it as a tuning reference! This is one more feature you wonÕt find
on any other MDM.
The MIDI MusicianÕs Digital Multitrack
MIDI provides a phenomenal level of control and flexibility for
todayÕs creative musician Ñ and the DA-38 is right at the cutting
edge of this technology. If you run a sizable MIDI system and
want to integrate your live or ÒvirtualÓ MIDI tracks into your pro-
duction environment, look no further! By adding the optional
DA-38
Multitrack DAT Recorder
page 2 of 5
Front Panel-DA-38 
						

							This newer tape technology solves many shortcomings of the 
S-VHS format where tape exposure, speed and tracking prob-
lems invariably sacrifice reliability and sound quality. In fact,
thatÕs why the Hi-8mm format is the preferred format among
post-production professionals worldwide.
The DA-38 uses a highly accurate and reliable, rapid response
transport mechanism that is unmatched by the competition.
Built to endure the constant Stop-Start-Stop-Start environment
of the recording studio, the transport features direct drive, brush-
less motors. Plus, the DA-38 uses TASCAMÕs exclusive write
after read, 4-head system of data reading/writing. This interleav-
ing design yields significantly more read area on tape. This
ensures better data integrity and provides superior dropout
protection.
The Most Advanced Tape-to-Head System
Only the Hi-8mm format, featured on TASCAM MDMs, provides
the safety and security of Auto Track Finding (ATF) technology.
This system embeds timing information into the tapeÕs subcode
area during the helical scan. ThereÕs no analog control track, like
youÕll find on other systems, that will fail due to tape stretching or
fraying. With ATF, you are assured of perfect tape interchange-
ability between any DA-38 or DA-88.
Precise Editing Ñ Seamless Punch In/Out
Because the DA-38Õs transport is so precise, you can define
tighter punch in/out points than previously available in the
analog domain. The DA-38Õs variable digital crossfade technolo-
gy (variable from 10ms ~ 90ms) promotes seamless punches
under a variety of conditions. If live ambient crowd noise is part
of your recording, a longer crossfade time of, say 90ms, will
preserve the recordingÕs character by making the transition from
existing to new program material longer and therefore, less
noticeable. Crowd noise wonÕt get choked off. Similarly, cymbal
crashes and other long duration sounds retain their natural
decay. For tight punches, a 10ms crossfade time will meet your
The DA-38 supports independent pre-roll parameters for both
LOCATE  and PUNCH IN. Perhaps youÕre comfortable with a 5
second LOCATE pre-roll time, but want a longer pre-roll for the
PUNCH IN so that you can get better acclimated to the songÕs
tempo and feel. With the DA-38, you can easily accomplish this.
A SHUTTLE MONITOR function enables you to mute audio
while repositioning tape. This handy function is great during the
tracking process when you or other musicians are wearing head-
phones. The days of high-pitched program material screaming
through the phones every time you shuttle are over! Hey!
Speaking of shuttle Ñ keep in mind that only TASCAM MDMs
give you true shuttle capability. The precision rotary SHUTTLE
knob controls tape speed depending upon how far you turn the
control. In fact, only TASCAMÕs SHUTTLE control allows you to
advance or rewind the tape at your own pace; from 1/4 speed to
eight times the normal playback rate. You wonÕt find this feature
on others!
As Simple to Operate As An Analog Tape
Recorder
Perhaps the best thing about the DA-38 is the fact that you
already know how to use it. Unlike some other formats and
many hard disk systems, the DA-38Õs transport controls are just
as simple to use as any analog tape deck. The PLAY, RECORD,
FF, REW and STOP buttons are right where you expect them to
be  Ñ and they work just as easily. Recording with the DA-38
is as simple as inserting a Hi-8mm tape, feeding signal to one
or more of the eight tracks, setting proper levels with the
12-segment LED peak reading displays and pressing PLAY
and RECORD.
Superior Format and Superior Transport
The DA-38 employs the latest tape and transport technology to
provide users with the best, most robust system on the market.
Hi-8mm tape is a metal particle format that provides higher
density recording which means better, more secure recordings.
DA-38
Multitrack DAT Recorder
page 3 of 5
Rear Panel-DA-38 
						

							needs.The actual punch can be accomplished manually from the
front panel, with a footswitch, or easily automated from the front
panel. With the DA-38Õs Auto-Punch capability, capturing your IN
and OUT points is a simple matter of enabling the REHEARSAL
function, rolling tape, and then pressing RECord and PLAY at
the desired points. You can rehearse as much as you need, and
when youÕre ready to give it your best shot, press AUTO IN/OUT
and go for it! As mentioned earlier, the DA-38 even has pre-roll
values that are independent of the LOCATE pre-roll parameters.
Auto Locate Function to Easily Mark Specific
Tape Positions
If you need to loop a certain musical passage, or want to mark
a certain position on the tape, use the DA-38Õs MEMO and
LOCate functions. As tape plays, simply hold SHIFT while press-
ing MEMO 1 or MEMO 2 to capture the desired point. Press
LOC 1 or LOC 2 to physically position the tape to these points.
If you wish to trim the address of these locate points, press
SHIFT to enter EDIT Mode, and while the EDIT LED is lit, use
the s Increment or t Decrement keys to modify the values.
When you press REPEAT, the DA-38 will loop between defined
LOCate positions.
Optional Equipment and Accessories Complete
the Modular System
The DA-38 is well-supported with optional accessories that
enable you to get more from your investment, make some
operations quicker and easier, and communicate with other
digital equipment.
DA-38
Multitrack DAT Recorder
page 4 of 5
Optional Remote Control Unit-RC-808
REC FUNCTION
REW F FWD STOP PLAY RECORD
1
ALL
INPUT
AUTO
INPUTINSERTREPEATMEMO 1MEMO 2
REHEARSALAUTO
IN/OUTCLEARLOC 1LOC 2
2345678
RC-808 REMOTE CONTROL UNIT
142mm
149mm
38mm
14 5/8 (372mm)2 1/2 (63mm)
8 11/16 (220mm)
Optional Remote Control Unit-RC-848
The RC-808 Basic Transport Controller
The RC-808 lets you control all basic functions of the DA-38
from across the room Ñ  including transport, record, two-point
autolocator, monitor switching, track arming and punch in/out
controls. The RC-808 is ideal when youÕre both the engineer
and the performer.
RC-848 Comprehensive Remote Controller
The RC-848 coordinates the simultaneous operation of up to six
DA-38s from one space-saving, high-tech control station. With
one RC-848 you can drive an entire rack full of DA-38s, main-
taining complete transport and track control in perfect synchroni-
zation. The RC-848 controls all transport functions including
shuttle, provides 99 locate points, adds frame-accurate jog
capability and dual LED tape counters that detail tape position
and an alternate locate point. It can also address track advance
and delay, locate pre-roll time and numerous other parameters.
On the rear panel of the RC-848, youÕll find EXT Ports 1, 2 and
3. Accessory (EXT 1) Port 1 enables the RC-848 to control non-
RS-422 equipment such as selected VTRs. Accessory  (EXT 2)
2 connects to other TASCAM equipment such as a TSR-8 open
reel multitrack recorder and enables full control over transport
and track arm/disarm functions. EXT 3 (RS-422) enables the RC-
848 to control RS-422 equipped units such as most professional
VTRs. These three ports are designated as machines 7,8 and 9
Ñ thus enabling the RC-848 to control a total of nine units. 
						

							DA-38
Multitrack DAT Recorder
page 5 of 5
Digital Interfaces for Connection with other
Digital Equipment
Should you wish to interface your DA-38 digitally with a Digital
Audio Workstation (DAW), the IF-88AE brings both AES/EBU
and S/PDIF digital I/O capability to the DA-38. The IF-88AE
provides 4 XLR connectors each for AES/EBU input and output,
enabling you to transfer all 8 tracks in a single pass. S/PDIF
digital I/O is accomplished with four keys labeled 1-2, 3-4, 5-6
and 7-8. Simply press the key that corresponds to the pair of
tracks you wish to transfer at any given time.
The IF-88SD digital interface is the DA-38Õs link to the world of
DASH (Digital Audio Stationary Head) recorders. Used with the
PW-SD1 and PW-SD2 DASH connector cables, digital audio
tracks can be easily transferred between the two formats.
The Best Value in Digital Multitrack Recording
¥ Total 1 hr. 48 min. of recording time on standard 120
Hi-8mm tape
¥ Greater than 92dB dynamic range
¥ Auto Track Finding (ATF) assures consistent tape hand-
ling, eliminates tape skew and provides transparent
inter-changeability between Hi-8mm recorders
¥ Superior A/D and D/A converters that take advantage of
the latest technological advances
¥ Simple one cable (PW-88S) interface for multiple machine
lockup
¥ Digital Patchbay for convenient signal routing
¥ Digital Track Copy function for track manipulation
¥ Test Tone Oscillator for calibration and tuning
¥ Programmable track advance / delay (-200 ~ 7200
samples)
¥ Front panel access to all system parameters
¥ ±6% pitch control
¥ Auto Punch In/Out capability with Rehearsal
¥ Rugged Direct Drive brushless transport motors
¥ Super-rugged, reliable rapid response transport built to
take years of constant stopping, starting and shuttling
Specifications
Recording Format :DTRS format 4-rotary head
digital recorder
Tape :Hi8 ME or MP
Tracking system :ATF
Erasure system :Overwrite
Number of channels :Eight plus subcode area
Recording time :108 minutes with NTSC standard 120
tape
:113 minutes with PAL/SCAM standard
90 tape
Fast Winding :80 sec. (100 times play speed)
Shuttle speed :1/4 ~ 8 times play speed
Digital I/O :TDIF (TEAC Digital Interface Format)
D-sub25 pin
Analog input :D-sub25 pin, +4 dBm, 10 KW
(balanced)
:RCA, -10 dBV, 50 KW(unbalanced)
Analog output :D-sub25 pin, +4 dBm, 75 W (balanced)
:RCA, -10 dBV, 250 W (unbalanced)
Sync (Remote) input :D-sub15pin
Sync output :D-sub15pin
Word sync input :BNC
Remote input :DIN 8 pin
Remote punch I/O :1/4 phone jack
Sampling rate :44.1 K/ 48 k Hz
Quantization :16 bit linear
Pitch control :±6% (in 0.1% step)
Frequency response :20 Hz -20 kHz, ±0.5 dB
(Load impedance 10 KW)
Dynamic range :Better than 92 dB
Signal to Noise ratio :Better than 92 dB
THD :Less than 0.008%
Crosstalk :Better than 90 dB (at 1 kHz)
Emphasis :50/15 ms (Playback only)
Cross fade time : 10 ~ 90 ms (in 10 ms step)
Track delay :-200 ~ 7200 sample
Offset :±2 hours
Power consumption :37W
Dimensions :482 x 143 (132 without foot)
(W x H x D mm) x 350  mm
Weight :7.5 Kg
Specifications and features subject to changes without
notice or obligation.
For more information about other TASCAM
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