Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder
The DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder from Tascam offers high-quality recording in a lightweight and compact design that anyone can use, perfect for musicians, teachers, journalists, and more. The DR-05 records WAV or MP3 files at rates up to 24-bit/96kHz to microSD or microSDHC cards for reliable, skip-free storage. A 2GB card is included so you can get started right away. Integrated microphones capture clear stereo audio, while a 3.5mm stereo mic/line input lets you connect external mics and sound sources. The jack even provides plug-in power for mics that require it.
An integrated speaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack make it easy to listen to your recordings to make sure everything was captured perfectly. The large display screen shows vital information during recording and playback, while the intuitive controls provide quick and easy single-handed operation. The Peak Reduction feature will automatically set your recording level by listening to the audio input and adjusting for the best level. When used alongside the built-in limiter, unwanted distortion becomes a thing of the past.
The DR-05 includes other classic Tascam features, such as Variable Speed Audition, a level align function, loop and repeat playback, self-timer recording, integrated editing, a chromatic tuner, and more. A USB 2.0 port allows you to connect the recorder to a computer to quickly transfer files. The DR-05 operates on a pair of standard AA batteries or via the included USB cable. A threaded socket provides convenient tripod mounting.
- Compact Design
- The lightweight and compact design allows you to bring the recorder anywhere, perfect for musicians, teachers, journalists, and more
- Versatile Recording
- The DR-05 records WAV files at rates up to 24-bit/96kHz and MP3 files at rates up to 320kbps to provide you with a wealth of high-quality options to meet your needs
- microSD
- The recorder writes to microSD or microSDHC cards for reliable, skip-free storage. A 2GB card is included so you can get started right away
- Integrated Microphones
- Integrated omnidirectional condenser microphones capture clear stereo audio with a sensitivity rating up to 125dB to withstand loud sound sources, while also capturing the nuance and detail of a subtle performance
- Mic/Line Input
- The 3.5mm stereo mic/line input lets you connect external mics and sound sources. The jack even provides plug-in power for mics that require it
- Integrated Speaker and Headphone Jack
- An integrated speaker and a 3.5mm headphone jack make it easy to listen to your recordings to make sure everything was captured perfectly
- Large Display
- The large display screen shows vital information during recording and playback
- Intuitive Controls
- The intuitive controls provide quick and easy single-handed operation
- Level Control Options
- The DR-05 offers automatic and manual level setting, as well as a Peak Reduction feature that will automatically set your recording level by listening to the audio input and adjusting for the best level. Unlike auto gain functions, Peak Reduction only goes down to prevent accidental distortion after a period of low level, like a break. Peak Recording works in rehearsal mode or while recording, so if the performance is louder than the sound check, you're still safe
- Limiter and Low-Cut Filter
- An integrated limiter and low-cut filter help to prevent distortion and low frequency rumble and hum
- Self-Timer Recording
- This feature will start the recorder 5 or 10 seconds after you hit the record button, giving you time to get ready when recording yourself. Alternately, you can enable a 2-second pre recording buffer, which will capture audio from 2 seconds before you hit the record button
- Playback Options
- The recorder has variable speed playback, letting you adjust recordings from 50-150% without affecting the pitch. It also offers loop and repeat playback, auto and manual track increment, playback EQ settings, and a level align feature that prevents uneven volume levels during playback
- Editing
- Onboard editing capabilities let you divide and delete tracks and sections of tracks, an assign up to 99 mark points on each file. A jump back function will return to your previous point with one action
- Tuner
- A built-in chromatic tuner ensures that you're on-key and sounding your best
- USB Port
- The USB 2.0 port makes it easy to connect the recorder to a computer to transfer your files for editing and sharing. The port also provides power to the DR-05
- Power Options
- The recorder can operate on a pair of standard AA batteries or via USB bus power with the included cable
- Tripod Socket
- A threaded socket provides convenient tripod mounting
| Recording Media |
microSD/SDHC Flash Memory Cards (64MB to 32GB)
1
Please Note:2GB Card Included close |
| Supported File Types |
WAV: 44.1/48/96kHz, 16/24-bit MP3: 44.1/48kHz, 32/64/96/128/192/256/320kbps |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Recording Time |
All times are for a 1GB memory card Stereo Mode: MP3: 17 hours 21 mins (128kbps), 6 hours 56 mins (320kbps) WAV: 1 hour 34 mins (16-bit/44.1kHz), 1 hour 26 mins (16-bit/48kHz), 28 mins (24-bit/96kHz) |
| Connectors |
1 x 3.5mm Mic/Line Stereo Input 1 x 3.5mm Headphone/Line Out Jack 1 x USB 2.0 Mini Port |
| Display | LCD Display |
| Speaker | 0.3W Mono |
| Frequency Response |
20Hz - 20kHz +1/-3dB (44.1kHz Ext In to Line Out, JEITA) 20Hz - 22kHz +1/-3dB (48kHz Ext In to Line Out, JEITA) 20Hz - 40kHz +1/-3dB (96kHz Ext In to Line Out, JEITA) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | 0.05% or Lower (EXt In to Line Out, Fs 44.1/48.96kHz JEITA) |
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 92dB or Higher (Ext In to Line Out, Fs 44.1/48/96kHz JEITA) |
| Power |
2 x AA Batteries USB Bus Power 1.7W Maximum Consumption |
| Operating Temperature | 32-104°F (0-40°C) |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.4 x 5.6 x 1" (61 x 141 x 26mm) |
| Weight | 4.1 oz (116g) (Without Batteries) |
| System Requirements |
Windows: Pentium 300MHz or Faster 128MB or More Memory USB Port (USB 2.0 Recommended) Windows 7, Vista, or XP Mac: Power PC, iMac, G3, G4 266MHz or Faster 64MB or More Memory USB Port (USB 2.0 Recommended) Mac OS X 10.2 or Later |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 75 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
97%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Easy to use (62)
- Excellent sound (61)
- Versatile (41)
- Low distortion (39)
- Compact (17)
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur recording (49)
- Outdoor events / games (38)
- Performances (29)
- Home studio (27)
- Professional recording (16)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Experienced (40), Novice (22), Professional musician (10)
Most Liked Positive Review
A Decent Audio Recorder for the Money
As a self contained multimedia journalist, I wanted to step up from the limitations of the Zoom H1 for the audio slideshow and video projects I produce/create. I went with the Tascam DR-...Read complete review
As a self contained multimedia journalist, I wanted to step up from the limitations of the Zoom H1 for the audio slideshow and video projects I produce/create. I went with the Tascam DR-05 due to it's smallish size and additional capabilities.
The audio quality of the built in stereo mics works well with capturing ambient audio and even for voice recording if using baffling to minimize any room echo.
For using an external mic, I initially went with the Pearstone LMT-100 3.5mm to XLR adapter, but had issues with it. I then ordered the Comprehensive 3.5mm to XLR cable and found it to be of higher audio quality than the Pearstone cable.
A serious issue I discovered is if you're going to use an external mic with the DR-05, you NEED to use a battery powered mic such as the AKG C-1000S, Rode M3 or NTG-2 (and similar mics) due to the noisy mic preamps. There's a fair amount of pre-amp line noise if used with dynamic mics like the Audio Technica AT8004 or Shure SM58 - both of which I tested and found to be of no use with this recorder.
When I tested with a loaned AKG-C1000S from a colleague, the audio quality was flat out lovely (I ended up purchasing an AKG-C1000S as a result). I recommend this recorder/mic combination for NPR style voice recordings both in studio and in the field.
Bottom line: This is a much better audio recorder compared to the Zoom H1 for the money IMO. The overall build and ease of use of the Tascam DR-05 is superior and as long as you understand its limitations for external mics options, you'll be happy with this unit.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
No line-level input - a non-starter, in
In at least 3 places in Tascam's website, they claim the DR-05 has a "line in", this is NOT the case, the only input jack can only accept a minu...Read complete review
In at least 3 places in Tascam's website, they claim the DR-05 has a "line in", this is NOT the case, the only input jack can only accept a minuscule -20 dBV (nominal) input signal, way below the normal -10dBV output from a "recorder out" jack from a stereo or mixer and WAY< WAY below the +4 dBV output of a normal mixer standard output. It may be great recording from the built in mics or external mics (I don't know), but it really misses the mark for recording from other sources because of the lack of a line in (even though Tascam keeps saying it has one.) By the way, the new DR-07 mkII has no line level input either (but the old DR-07 did).
Note: Below, I checked "experienced" - had there been a category between 'novice" and "experienced" I would have selected that, but I'm closer to experienced than novice.
Reviewed by 75 customers
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Pros
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
Cons
- None
Best Uses
- Audio Notes
- Video Projects
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Use in the work environment for recoding notes, audits, etc... Will be trying it on an amateur video project in the near future, and I'm sure it will meet my expectations after listening to the quality audio it delivers.
Pros
- Compact
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
- Versatile
Cons
- Weak speaker
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
I like the different recording modes, choices of compression (or wave).
My only complaint is the speaker is pretty weak and I had to turn it up to full volume to get very modest listening level. You have to be very careful to lower the volume before plugging in an earphone beause you will blow an ear drum if you inadvertently plug them in before lowering the level.
Pros
- Easy To Use
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Recording quality is not bad and the price is good. This device is very easy to use. By the way, to use it as a mp3 player is also ok.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Record Church Sermons
Easy to Use after Intial Setup
Short Battery Life
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Professional Recording
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
I use this recorder to record testimony of couples for a video production that I do before marriage
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Professional Recording
- Video
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Love the size, am happy with the quality. Built in microphones work very well. I have noticed that it does not work well with all external microphones. I'm still testing this. Much better quality when recording music then my larger and more expensive Marantz PMD 660
- Similar:
- Marantz 660
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Performances
- Professional Recording
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Tech has come a long way since I humped a Nagra III for recording sounds. I purchased this unit to have a cheap way to record wild sounds and board feeds, and now I carry it in my bag each day. The built-in mics do an impressive job, and once you figure out what kind of level to feed the line input, it's perfect for backup recordings from mixers.
After pulling a windscreen for an SM-58 over the top of the mics, I can use it for quick man-on-the-street interviews with remarkable clarity. And it's easy to use. I would not have believed a digital recorder would have this much usefulness and quality for under a hundred bucks.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Light weight
- Low Distortion
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Events
- Professional Recording
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Videographer using the DR-05 as a 48K field recorder by feeding it from my Sennheiser EK100 receiver. Recording video with a Canon T2i and syncing the audio in post. It's working great so far with no problems. I've engaged the limiter as a safety precaution. An excellent way to shoot web commercials and have the depth of field from the Canon and pro audio from the DR-05. Menu is super easy too.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Birding
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Very good recorder. The option to record in mono and stereo gives a good advance to use an external mic. For example I have a Sony PCM-M10, and it didn't have this option.
- Similar:
- Sony PCM-M10
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
I use this to record live music in small venues. It's easy to use, reliable and small enough to not be a nuisance. I found it simple to operate and simple to downlowd to a computer. The sound quality was better than I expected. All in all, an excellent value. I highly recommend it.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Efficient
- Excellent Sound
- Powerful
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
This is perfect for the amateur audio recorder looking to either capture quick clips or to record event/live performance and long durations. The DR-05 has plenty of nice settings for you to customize your recording that best suits your needs. I mainly choose this product based on good reviews and it's great price. I was looking for something affordable that i could use to record both short clips of audio and longer ambient soundscapes to incorporate into music and the DR-05 is the perfect tool. The only thing I will say is if are looking at recording both short tight clips and for longer durations and are willing to pay just a little more, the DR-07mkII, with its dual mic configuartions and a couple of added features might be the way to go.
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Mobile DJ
- Performances
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
I've waited a long time for something like this - a device that can make high quality recordings, but is easy to use for an old guy like me.
One thing I really like about it is the sound quality when you monitor ambient sound. The hard of hearing could strap one of these to their belt and pop a pair of ear buds in and be good to go.
Good for recording acoustic guitar in the park. Batteries last a long time and if you upgrade the sound card you can record for days before memory runs out.
If you can avoid spilling beer on it or dropping it on the cement it should last a long time.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
- Powerful
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Home Studio
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Currently I'm using the DR-05 for recording passages from music lessons that I can reference and also play along with to practice.
As a novice I can attest that it is easy to use and playback sounds wonderful.
Great product!
Pros
- Compact
- Excellent Sound
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Love the quality for the price. I use ti on my Canon T3i and it works great.
Pros
- Compact
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
- Powerful
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Home Studio
- Performances
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Used it for drum and vocal recordings. Little bit of distortion, but still learning how to adjust the recording levels and where to place it. Recording is crystal clear - go for it!
Pros
- Compact
- Easy connectivity
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
- Simple software
- Versatile
Cons
- Add quick start instructi
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Back-up safety recording
- Performances
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
I use this recorder for spoken word performances. It is simple to use, makes fine sounding files, and is unobtrusive -- easy for the performer to forget it is there and relax to do their best.
Considering all that it can do, and the superb design, the price is amazing.
The instruction book could be improved by the addition of a quick start section for each function.
- Recommended:
- Joby Gorillapod SLR-Zoom Tripod
Pros
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Second I bought, to use as a backup! clear audio!
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
- Performances
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
I bought this primarily for recording band practices and new song ideas. The recording quality is great! I really like the limiter feature. The stereo field is perfect - very natural sounding. And I haven't experienced any phase problems (I don't think the mics are far enough apart to really cause phasing), and I have no intention of mixing to mono anyway. I have a gig coming up next week, and I am going to bring it to get a good live recording.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Good build quality
- Low Distortion
- Versatile
Cons
- Bad Mic Pattern
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
- Events
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
I use the DR-05 for weddings and it does great. The build quality is a bit better than some of the other small recorders at this price point. It does a pretty decent job of picking up a range of frequencies from low to high as well. The only things I would change are the mic pattern and the Micro-SD card. I'd like to have the mics pointed straight ahead and I'd like to have a full size SD card.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Use
- Excellent Sound
- Low Distortion
- Powerful
- Versatile
Cons
Best Uses
- Amateur Recording
Comments about Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder:
Dictating professional reports
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Accessory Packages
- Price: $159.99
This item is usually Drop Shipped from the MFR/Distributor within 7-14 days (subject to availability). Your order will be charged at the time of placing the order with the MFR
Batteries & Power
- Price: $20.77
- Price: $1.23
Cables
- Price: $14.29
Media
- Price: $3.54
Headphones
- Price: $19.99
Wind Protection
- Price: $39.95
Cases & Protection
- Price: $34.99
What's in the Box
- microSD Card
- 2 x AA Batteries
- USB Cable
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
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