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TASCAM DR-40X 4-Channel / 4-Track Portable Audio Recorder and USB Interface with Adjustable Mic

BH #TADR40X • MFR #DR-40X
TASCAM DR-40X 4-Channel / 4-Track Portable Audio Recorder and USB Interface with Adjustable Mic
Key Features
  • Podcast, Sound Effects & Music Recording
  • Adjustable Unidirectional Mics
  • Dual XLR-1/4" Inputs w/ Phantom Power
  • Stereo Safety Track Record Mode
For podcasts, sound effects, and music recording applications, the Tascam DR-40X portable handheld recorder is capable of capturing up to four tracks of high-resolution audio with no external microphones required. Its onboard unidirectional condenser mics can be set for a wide or tight stereo image, and may be used simultaneously with the mic/line combo inputs. Equally adept as a handheld device or when used in stand- or camera-mounted setups, the DR-40X can handle anything from sampling sessions and interviews to podcasts and live concerts.
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TASCAM DR-40X Overview

For podcasts, sound effects, and music recording applications, the Tascam DR-40X portable handheld recorder is capable of capturing up to four tracks of high-resolution audio with no external microphones required. Its onboard unidirectional condenser mics can be set for a wide or tight stereo image, and may be used simultaneously with the mic/line combo inputs. Equally adept as a handheld device or when used in stand- or camera-mounted setups, the DR-40X can handle anything from sampling sessions and interviews to podcasts and live concerts.

Flexible powering methods—batteries, USB bus power, or an AC adapter—make the DR-40X well suited to on-the-go recording, all-day video shoots, and computer-based audio production. Need to patch in external mics or an outboard mixer? The DR-40X's two balanced XLR-1/4" inputs accommodate mic- or line-level signals (even +4 dBu from professional consoles) and can supply phantom power if needed. Whether you use the built-in mics or an external source, selectable modes such as stereo safety track recording, peak reduction, limiting, and auto level give you options for achieving a clean, undistorted recording.

Adjustable Unidirectional Microphones
The DR-40X's onboard condenser microphones empower you with stereo capture or 2 x stereo capture when used with the mic/line inputs. For sources producing sound pressure levels up to 125 dB, loud concerts won't be a problem. Whereas the DR-05X has omnidirectional mics in a fixed A-B setup, the DR-40X features adjustable unidirectional mics. The unidirectional mics minimize the pickup of sound entering from the rear of the capsules, resulting in a more focused tone with fewer reflections.

Easily pivot the capsules between two mic configurations to complement your sound source—use the A-B position (capsules facing outward) to produce a wide stereo image, or switch to the X-Y position (capsules facing inward) if you need a tighter stereo field with a strong center presence and fewer phase differences.
Dual XLR-1/4" Mic/Line Inputs with Phantom Power
Dual Neutrik XLR-1/4" TRS combo jacks support mic level and +4 dBu line level, allowing you to record external microphones or balanced outputs from a mixer or FOH console. With switchable 24V or 48V phantom power and ample gain, the mic preamps can serve a variety of microphones such as dynamic, ribbon, or condenser types. Using the onboard microphones, you can capture the ambient sound of an audience while recording direct from an external console, which is ideal for live performances.
Supports SD Cards up to 128GB
To maximize compactness and portability, the DR-40X records directly to media cards (available separately). SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards (up to 128GB capacity) are supported for long recording times even at high audio resolutions. With a 128GB card, the DR-40X can record in stereo for up to 192 hours at 16-bit / 44.1 kHz using uncompressed, BWF-compliant WAV format.
3.5mm Line/Headphone Output
When you want to record to your camera and the DR-40X, just connect the 3.5mm mini-jack output from the DR-40X into your camera's input, then use the +/- buttons on the Home screen to adjust the output level. Alternatively, connect a pair of headphones to the 3.5mm mini jack for critical listening. Quick monitor checks can be done through the DR-40X's built-in mono speaker.
USB Microphone and Audio Interface Functionality
Connect the DR-40X to your Mac/Windows computer or iOS device via USB for real-time bidirectional audio routing. Once recognized and configured, the DR-40X can be used as a USB microphone or 2-in/2-out audio interface for your favorite audio software. For convenient file transfers, the DR-40X can function as a card reader when connected via USB.
Powered via AA Batteries, USB, or AC Adapter
Using the three included AA alkaline batteries, you can power the DR-40X for up to 18 hours of stereo recording time at 16-bit / 44.1 kHz resolution. For long-duration sessions that require extended recording time, the DR-40X may be powered via a USB connection to a computer or mobile battery, or through the Tascam PS-P520E AC adapter (available separately).
Ideal for Handheld or Tripod-Mounted Use
Designed for optimal portability, the DR-40X is both compact and light. The streamlined body lends itself to comfortable use when held in the hand or placed in a pocket. To foil unplanned button presses in such situations, engage the side-panel hold switch. Utilize the 1/4"-20 threaded hole on the underside of the DR-40X to mount it on a mic stand or tripod for stable, stationary positioning, or attach the included tilt foot to prevent the onboard mics from being too low when placing the unit with the bottom side down.
Stereo Safety Track Recording
Filmmakers and videographers often experience sudden audio volume spikes during filming. An actor could suddenly scream, or a documentary subject could do almost anything. The DR-40X has a dual-recording mode that captures a copy of your take from the onboard mics or external inputs at a lower level (selectable at -6 db or -12 dB) as a safety track in case of sudden distortion.
Built-In Level Modes and Signal Processing Enhance Audio Quality
Enhance the sonic impact of your audio with the DR-40X's built-in level modes and signal processing. Engage automatic level control to increase or decrease the recording volume when the input sound is too quiet or loud, and switch on the limiter to compress the signal before it reaches the point of distortion. In rehearsal mode or while recording, the peak reduction function automatically reduces the input gain to a suitable level.

Mitigate wind noise and low-frequency rumble by selecting the low-cut filter, which can be set at 40, 80, or 120 Hz. You can even choose to apply a hall, room, studio, or plate reverb preset to the input or output signal. Upon playback, treble, mid, and bass frequencies may be boosted or reduced for custom output tone.
Selectable Recording Functions
The DR-40X offers several recording functions that simplify your workflow and save you from missing the beginning of a performance. Once enabled, the prerecord setting keeps the DR-40X in standby mode, which allows it to capture up to two seconds of signal before you press the record button. The DR-40X is also capable of recording in response to an input signal. Its auto-record function can begin recording at a user-selectable decibel threshold of -6, -12, -24, or -48 dB. If you'll be recording yourself while playing an instrument such as piano or drums, you can use the self-timer function to initiate recording after a set period of time (5 or 10 seconds).
Nondestructive Overdubbing
The DR-40X's overdubbing is perfect for layering a new performance over an existing track. By overdubbing, you can play an instrument or sing as you play back a saved track. Record either the combined signals or just the input signal as a new file, keeping the original recording as is.
Tone Generator for Synchronizing Files
An internal tone generator makes it easy to synchronize files recorded on the DR-40X and your camera. When the DR-40X is connected to a camera, an adjustable auto-tone will be sent to the camera and recorded to the DR-40X. The resulting tones can be used as guides when synchronizing your files in video editing software.
Supports External Remote Control
Hand- or foot-operated remote control is possible via the RC-3F footswitch or RC-10 wired remote (both available separately). Start/stop recording, make marks, increment tracks, and more without having to touch the DR-40X.
Additional Features
  • 128 x 64 pixel graphic LCD with backlight
  • Quick-menu button for easy access to various functions
  • 10 menu languages
  • Delay compensation function eliminates time lags caused by differences in the distances of two sets of inputs from the sound source
  • Overwrite function for punch-in recording with one level of undo
  • Dictation mode designed for human voice recording and transcription
  • Adjustable playback speed from 0.5 to 2 times (in 0.1 increments) at 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz
  • MS decoding function allows proper stereo monitoring of a mid-side mic configuration
  • Automatically creates a new file when the maximum file size is reached
  • File divide/delete functions
  • Loop/repeat playback
  • Resume function retains the last stop point even when the DR-40X is powered off/on
  • Jump-back playback feature skips back 1 to 10, 20, or 30 seconds during playback
  • Up to 99 marks (locate points) per track
  • Track increment creates new files at arbitrary locations during recording
  • File name format can be set to use a user-defined word or the date
  • The first six characters of the file name for recording can be set freely
  • Playlist function
  • Chromatic tuner
  • Built-in rubber feet reduce the transfer of vibrations from a desktop or table to the onboard microphones
UPC: 043774033683

TASCAM DR-40XSpecs

Portable Recorder
Form Factor
Field Recorder
Primary Use Applications
Dictation & Transcription, Music Recording
Number of Tracks
4
Number of Input Channels
4 (4 x Mono, 2 x Stereo)
Maximum Sampling Rate
96 kHz / 24-Bit
Microphone
Built-In Cardioid Condenser Stereo Pair, A/B or X/Y Configuration
Number of Microphone Inputs
2
Built-In Speaker
Yes, 0.3 W Mono
Display
Monochrome LCD (Backlit)
Memory Card Support
SD (64 MB to 2 GB)
SDHC (4 GB to 32 GB)
SDXC (48 GB to 128 GB)
Internal Storage
No
Special Features
Overdubbing, Remote Control Capable (Remote Available Separately)
Recording
Audio File Formats
Recording:
BWF, MP3, WAV
Sample Rates
WAV:
44.1 / 48 / 96 kHz
MP3:
44.1 / 48 kHz
Bit Depth
16 / 24-Bit
Bit Rates
32 to 320 kb/s (Record)
32 to 320 kb/s + VBR (Playback)
Signal Processing & FX
Auto Gain, EQ, Limiter, Low-Cut Filter, Reverb
Timecode Support
No
Recording Time
WAV 44.1 kHz/16-Bit:
1 Hr 41 Mins per GB (Stereo)
WAV 48 kHz/16-Bit:
1 Hr 33 Mins per GB (Stereo)
WAV 96 kHz/16-Bit:
46 Mins per GB (Stereo)
WAV 44.1 kHz/24-Bit:
1 Hr 7 Mins per GB (Stereo)
WAV 48 kHz/24-Bit:
1 Hr 2 Mins per GB (Stereo)
WAV 96 kHz/24-Bit:
31 Mins per GB (Stereo)
MP3 32 kb/s:
74 Hrs 32 Mins per GB (Stereo)
MP3 64 kb/s:
37 Hrs 16 Mins per GB (Stereo)
MP3 96 kb/s:
24 Hrs 50 Mins per GB (Stereo)
MP3 128 kb/s:
18 Hrs 38 Mins per GB (Stereo)
MP3 192 kb/s:
12 Hrs 25 Mins per GB (Stereo)
MP3 256 kb/s:
9 Hrs 19 Mins per GB (Stereo)
MP3 320 kb/s:
7 Hrs 27 Mins per GB (Stereo)
Included Software
No
Connectivity
Analog I/O
2x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Female Balanced Line/Mic Input (Lockable)
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Female Unbalanced Headphone/Line Output
Digital I/O
No
Phantom Power
+24 / 48 V, Selectable On/Off (Applied to All Inputs)
Phantom Power Current
3 mA per Channel
Plug-In Power
No
System Connection
1x Micro-USB (2.0)
Audio Interface Capability
Multi-Track
Wireless
No
Mobile App Compatible
No
Performance
Frequency Response
20 Hz to 20 kHz +1/-3 dB (at 44.1 kHz, JEITA)
20 Hz to 22 kHz +1/-3 dB (at 48 kHz, JEITA)
20 kHz to 40 kHz +1/-3 dB (at 96 kHz, JEITA)
Max Input Level
Mic Inputs:
-3 dBV
Line Inputs:
+20 dBu
Max Output Level
+2 dBV
Headphone Output Power
20 mW per Channel into 32 Ohms
Impedance
Mic Inputs:
2.2 Kilohms
Line Inputs:
10 Kilohms
Line Outputs:
12 Ohms
SNR
Line Outputs:
>92 dB
THD
≤0.05%
Microphone Max SPL
125 dB SPL
Power
Power Options
Battery, USB Bus Power, AC/DC Power Adapter
Battery Type
3x AA (Included)
Approximate Battery Life
WAV 44.1 kHz/16-Bit:
18 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
6.5 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, Phantom On, Recording)
9 Hours (Alkaline, All Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
19.5 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
16 Hours (Alkaline, All Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
16 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
5.5 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, Phantom On, Recording)
7.5 Hours (NiMH, All Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
15.5 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
12.5 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
WAV 96 kHz/24-Bit:
14.5 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
8.5 Hours (Alkaline, All Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
14 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
14 Hours (Alkaline, All Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
11 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
7.5 Hours (NiMH, All Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
12 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
11.5 Hours (NiMH, All Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
MP3 128 kb/s:
16 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
9 Hours (Alkaline, All Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
16.5 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
16.5 Hours (Alkaline, All Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
12.5 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
8 Hours (NiMH, All Channels, Phantom Off, Recording)
13 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
13.5 Hours (NiMH, All Channels, Playback, with Headphones)
AC/DC Power Adapter
VDC Not Included
Input Power
100 to 240 VAC, 50 / 60 Hz
Physical
Included Accessories
Batteries, Stand Adapter
Mounting Options
1/4"-20 Female
Operating Conditions
32 to 104°F / 0 to 40°C 
Dimensions
2.8 x 6.1 x 1.4" / 70 x 155 x 35 mm (Mics Closed)
3.5 x 6.1 x 1.4" / 90 x 155 x 35 mm (Mics Open)
Weight
7.5 oz / 213 g (without Batteries)
9.9 oz / 282 g (with Batteries)
Packaging Info
Package Weight
1.05 lb
Box Dimensions (LxWxH)
8.1 x 5.4 x 2.7"

TASCAM DR-40X Reviews

See any errors on this page? Let us know

Is there a way to get a replacement battery ...

Is there a way to get a replacement battery cover, and is it the same as the old DR-40?
Asked by: Echo
Battery cover is not available for separate purchase as a replacement, you need to contact Tascam directly for assistance.
Answered by: Daniel O
Date published: 2023-12-03

Is there a difference in recording levels using a ...

Is there a difference in recording levels using a shotgun mic when it is powered by the internal battery vs phantom power? Is the signal stronger when use a phantom power compare to a internal mic battery?
Asked by: Michael
It depends on the microphone. Some mics will not work as well and others will. 48V is generally a better option if it is available.
Answered by: James Cruz
Date published: 2022-03-24

When EXT IN switch is set to MIC or MIC + ...

When EXT IN switch is set to MIC or MIC + PHANTOM, can the DR-40X handle line level signals via XLR?
Asked by: Timothy
Mic level is significantly lower than line level, so when the inputs are set to mic level they will provide too much gain for a line level signal. This recorder is capable of accepting a line level signal, but the gain for the respective inputs should be set accordingly.
Answered by: Calvin M
Date published: 2022-08-29

Why would I buy DR-40X instead of DR-40? Does ...

Why would I buy DR-40X instead of DR-40? Does -40X have everything in -40 ? Does -40X have more than -40 ?
Asked by: Lowell
While the DR-40 functions only as a portable digital audio recorder, the DR-40X also provides the option to function as a 2-channel audio interface with your computer. This would be a great consideration for podcasts. It also has an overdub recording option which is useful for musicians, where you can record a single voice or instrument and then record a 2nd audio track over the one that is already recorded. The DR-40X also has a multi-language menu, as well as a dictation mode which can be used to capture testimonials, reminders, or lectures and is made to work ideally with dictation software for transcription purposes.
Answered by: David M
Date published: 2023-12-03

Can you use this with a DSLR to record sound?

Can you use this with a DSLR to record sound?
Asked by: Gary
Yes. The COVID pandemic forced a local church to cancel in-person services, so I taped and edited a Sunday service every Friday, using a Panasonic DMC-G85 DSLR, a Panasonic DMC-Z70 camera, and a Canon Vixia. For audio, I recorded the house mixer system in stereo to a DR-40X. Once I had all three cameras running (and they stayed in sync quite nicely!), I had the minister bring his hands together in front of his face in one sharp "clap." That was my audio/video slate/sync point. I would line up all three video tracks (with camera audio, which I didn't use) in Premiere and sync them to the DR-40X audio track. The sharp spikes, indicating the sound of the loud clap, were easy to spot on both the DR-40X audio and each camera's audio track, allowing for a quick synchronization. I then synced all three video tracks and the audio tracks to the start point in Premiere and went about editing the video, using cutaways to edit out mistakes and second takes. The Z70 worked particularly well in this application with its large battery, as did the Vixia. I used a third-party external power supply for the G85.
Answered by: Pete
Date published: 2023-12-03

IF I use the ...

IF I use the https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1358231-REG/rode_vxlr_mini_jack_to_xlr_adaptor.html?sts=pi&pim=Y, will I get a stereo input to the DR-40X?
Asked by: Frank
No. The only way to record Stereo into the DR-40X is to have a left input and a right input, separately, to the recorder. Each of the XLR connectors on theDR-40X is a single channel.
Answered by: james
Date published: 2021-03-03

Can I use this device to record both sides of a ...

Can I use this device to record both sides of a phone conversation on an iPhone?
Asked by: Luis
Yes, you can use the Tascam DR-40x to record the audio from both sides of a phone conversation on an iPhone, but you will need to use another device to serve as an interface such as the JK Audio CellTap 4C Wireless Phone Audio Tap Adapter (B&H # JKCELLTAP4C).
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2022-04-24

If you have this hooked up to your PC and you are ...

If you have this hooked up to your PC and you are using it as a mic and pushing audio to a connected headset will it still record any other audio coming from the zoom meeting?
Asked by: Bernard
If you are using the Tascam DR-40x as a USB mic or as a USB audio interface for external mics, then you would not be able to use it as a recorder at the same time, but you can record audio directly onto your computer. The DR-40x has the ability to function as either a recorder or as a USB audio interface / USB mic, but it is not capable of performing both functions simultaneously.
Answered by: Lisa S
Date published: 2021-11-15
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