Tascam DP-008 User Manual

DP-008
8-Track Digital Pocketstudio
OWNER'S MANUAL
D01092520A
2 TASCAM DP-008
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
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 lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within equilateral triang le , i s inte nded to alert the user t o t he pres ence of un i n sul a ted “dan g ero u s vo lta g e” withi n t he prod u ct’s enclosure that may be of sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electric shock to persons.
The exclamation point within an equilateral triangle is intended to ale rt the user to t he presence o f i mportant o perating and maintenance (servicing) instru ct io ns in the litera tu re accompanying the appliance.
This appliance has a serial number located on the bottom p anel. Pl ease record the mo del n umb er and s eri al num ber a nd retain them for your records.
Model number
Serial number
FOR U.S.A . TO THE USER
Th is e qu ip me nt has b ee n te st ed and found to comp ly with the limits for a Clas s B digi ta l device, pu rs ua nt to Par t 15 of th e FC C Rule s. T he se limi ts are d es ig ne d to prov id e reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This eq uipm en t ge ne ra te s, use s, and can radi at e radio frequency energy and, if not installed an d us ed in ac co rd an ce with the in st ru ct io n manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee tha t in terfere nc e wi ll not oc cur in a par ticul ar installation. If this equipment does cause harmful in te rfe re nce to ra dio or te levis io n rec ep tion, which ca n be de termined b y tu rn in g th e equipment of f and on, the user is encouraged to try to correc t the interference by one or more of the following measures.
a) Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. b) I nc re a s e th e s e p ar at io n b e t we en t h e
equipment and receiver.
c) Co nn ec t th e equipment into an ou tl et on a
circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
d) Consult the dealer or an experienced radio /T V
technician for help.
CAUTION
Changes or modifications to this equipment not exp re ss ly approved by T EAC CO RP OR ATION for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.
WARNING: TO PREVENT FIRE OR SHOCK HAZARD, DO NOT
EXPOSE THIS
APPLIANCE TO RAIN OR
MOISTURE.
Declaration of Conformity
Model Number : DP-008 Trade Name : TASCAM Responsible party : TEAC AMERICA, INC. Address : 7733 Telegraph Road, Montebello,
California, U.S. A. Telephone number : 1-323-726- 0303
This device complies with Par t 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference recieved, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
TASCAM DP-008 3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
1 Read these instructions.
2 Keep these instructions.
3 Heed all warnings.
4 Follow all instructions.
5 Do not use this apparatus near water.
6 Clean only with dry cloth.
7 Do not block any ventilation openings. Install
in a cco rda n ce w i th the m anu fact ure r's instructions.
8 Do not install near any heat sources such
as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
9 D o no t de f e a t th e sa f et y pu r p o s e of
the p olarize d or groun di ng-type plu g. A po la rized plug h as t wo bla de s wit h on e wi der t han the oth er. A gro und ing t ype plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third pro ng are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
10 Protect the power cord from being walked
o n or pin c h e d par t i c u l a r l y at p l u g s , co nv enien ce recepta cles, and the poi nt where they exit from the apparatus.
11 Only use attachments/accessories specified
by the manufacturer.
1 2 Us e only wi t h the ca rt, st a n d, tr i p o d,
b r ac ke t , o r t a bl e s p ec i fi ed b y t h e manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. Wh en a car t is used, u se c autio n whe n moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
Do not expose this ap pa ratus to drips or
splashes.
Do not place any objects filled with liquids,
such as vases, on the apparatus.
Do not install this apparatus in a confined
space such as a book case or similar unit.
The apparatus draws nominal non-oper-
at ing p owe r fro m the A C out let w ith its
POWER or STANDBY/ON switch not in the ON position.
Th e appa r atu s sho uld b e lo c ate d clo se
en ou gh to the AC outle t so that you c an
ea sily g ra sp the power cor d p lug at any time.
The mains plug is used as the disconnect
device ; the disconnect device shall remain
readily operable. If the product uses batteries (inclu ding a
batt er y pack or insta ll ed ba tteries ), they
should not be exposed to sunshine, fire or excessive heat.
CAUTION for products that use replaceable
lithium batteries: there is danger of explo-
sion if a battery is replaced with an incor­rect type of battery. Replace only with the same or equivalent type.
Caution should be ta ken when using
earphones or headphones with the product
because excessive sound pressure (volume) from earphones or headphones can cause hearing loss.
If you are experiencing problems with this
product, contact TEAC for a service refer-
ral. Do not use the product until it has been repaired.
13 Unp lug t his a p par atu s duri n g ligh tni ng
storms or when unused for long periods of time.
14 Re f er all serv i cin g t o qu alif i ed serv i ce
per s onne l . Se r vici n g is r e quir ed wh en the ap paratus ha s been dama ged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
4 TASCAM DP-008
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Do not heat or disas semble batteries. Do
CAUTIONS ABOUT BATTERIES
This product uses batteries. Misuse of batter­ies could cause a leak, rupture or other trou­ble. Always abide by the following precautions when using batteries.
Never recharge non-rechargeable batteries.
The batteries could rupture or leak, causing
fire or injury. When installing batteries, pay attention to
the pola rity indicati on s ( plus/ mi nu s (+/ – )
orientation), and install them correctly in the battery case as indicated. Putting them in backward could make the batteries rupture or leak, causing fire, injury or stains around them.
When throwing used batteries away, follow
the disposal instructions indicated on the
batteries and the local disposal laws. Do not us e ba t t e r ies ot her th an th o se
sp e cif ied . Do n ot m ix a nd u se n ew a nd
old ba tter ie s or di ffer en t t yp es of batter­ies together. The batteries could rupture or leak, caus ing fire, injury or stains around them.
Do not carry or store batteries together with
sm al l met al ob je cts. The batteri es could
short, causing leak, rupture or other trouble.
no t put them in f ire or w at er. Bat t eri es
could rupture or leak, causing fire, injury or stains around them.
If the battery fluid leaks, wipe away any fluid
on the batter y c as e before inser ting n ew
batteries. If the battery fluid gets in an eye, it could cause loss of eyesight. If fluid does enter an eye, wa sh it out thoroug hly wi th clea n water withou t rub bi ng the eye an d then consult a d oc tor immediatel y. If th e fluid gets on a person’s body or clothing, it could cause skin injuries or burns. If this should happen, wash it off with clean water and then consult a doctor immediately.
Th e unit pow er s h oul d be off w hen you
install and replace batteries.
Remove the batteries if you do not plan to
use the unit for a long time. Batteries could
rupture or leak, causing fire, injury or stains around them. If the battery fluid leaks, wipe away any fluid on the battery case before inserting new batteries.
TASCAM DP-008 5

Table of Contents

1 – Introduction ................................7
Overview of this unit .................................. 7
About this manual ..................................... 7
Manual conventions .............................. 7
Product parts ............................................. 7
Intellectual property rights ........................ 8
About SD cards .......................................... 8
Precautions for use ................................ 8
Cautions on installation ............................. 9
Beware of condensation ............................ 9
Cleaning the unit ........................................ 9
2 – Quick Start Guides ...................10
Playback and mixing ............................... 10
Preparing to listen to the demo song .. 10
Playing and mixing the demo song ......11
From recording to creating a master track 13
Creating a new song ........................... 13
Connecting and setting the input
sources ................................................ 14
Setting the guitar as TRACK 1
recording source .................................. 15
Adjusting the input level and
monitoring ........................................... 15
Recording guitar to TRACK 1............... 16
Listening to your recording.................. 16
Record guitar to TRACK 2.....................17
Record vocals on TRACK 3 .................. 18
Mixing the tracks ................................. 20
Mastering the mix ...............................20
Shutting down the unit ....................... 23
3 – Names and Functions of Parts . 24
Top panel ................................................. 24
Front panel ............................................... 26
Rear panel ................................................ 27
Right side panel .......................................28
Bottom panel ...........................................29
Home Screen ............................................ 30
4 – Preparations .............................31
Preparing the power and SD card ............ 31
Installing an SD card............................ 31
Preparing the power ............................ 31
Connecting an AC adaptor (sold
separately) ........................................... 32
Start-up & shutdown ................................ 32
Starting up the unit ............................. 32
Shutting down ..................................... 32
Formatting SD cards ................................ 33
Recorder modes ......................................33
Connecting with other equipment ........... 34
Rear panel connections .......................34
Right side panel connections............... 34
Adjusting the contrast .............................. 34
Setting the backlight ................................ 35
5 – Song Management ...................36
Partitions and songs ................................ 36
Selecting the active partition ................... 36
Editing names .......................................... 37
Loading a saved song .............................. 37
Creating a new song ................................ 37
Saving a song ........................................... 38
Viewing song information ....................... 38
Copying songs .......................................... 38
Erasing songs ...........................................39
Protecting songs ......................................40
6 – Basic Recording ........................41
Selecting the input source ....................... 41
Phantom power ........................................ 41
Monitoring input signals .......................... 42
About the OL indicators and level meters 42
Assigning inputs ...................................... 43
Using input EQ ......................................... 43
Making the first recording ....................... 44
Multitrack recording ................................ 45
REC indicator settings ........................ 45
Track pan and level settings ................ 45
Input selection and assignment ......... 45
Input level settings ............................. 45
Making additional recordings ............ 45
Mixdown ..................................................45
Level and balance ................................ 45
Stereo position (panning) .................... 45
Track EQ (equalizer) ............................ 45
Reverb ................................................ 46
Muting tracks ...................................... 47
Mastering ................................................. 48
Setting the end point ........................... 48
Recording the master track ................. 48
Undoing operations (undo) ...................... 49
Undoing the last operation
(single undo) ....................................... 50
Undoing a previous operation
(multi-undo) ........................................50
Erasing the operation history .............. 51
7 – Recorder Functions ...................52
Punching in and out ................................. 52
Using the foot switch to punch in/out 52
Setting the foot switch polarity .......... 52
Bouncing tracks ....................................... 53
Using the bounce function .................. 53
6 TASCAM DP-008
Table of Contents
Confirming the result........................... 53
Locate and search functions ....................54
Direct locate function .......................... 54
Return To Zero (RTZ) and
Last Recording Position (LRP) ............. 54
Fast forward /rewind search ................ 55
Repeat playback ....................................... 55
Setting IN and OUT points .................. 55
Editing IN/OUT points ......................... 55
Using repeat playback ......................... 56
Setting the interval between
repetitions ........................................... 56
Locating to the IN or OUT point ......... 56
Automatically punching in and out ......... 56
Rehearsal ............................................ 56
Using auto punch in /out to record ..... 57
8 – Editing Tracks ...........................58
Overview of track editing......................... 58
Editing points ......................................58
Basic editing procedures .................... 58
Explanation of items ............................ 59
COPY/PASTE ........................................... 60
COPY/INSERT ..........................................60
MOVE/ PASTE .......................................... 61
MOVE/ INSERT ......................................... 61
OPEN (insert silence) .............................. 61
CUT (remove part) .................................. 62
SILENCE (part erase) ............................... 62
CLONE track (track duplication)............... 62
CLEAN out (track erase)........................... 63
9 – Miscellaneous Functions ..........64
Metronome ............................................. 64
Tuner ........................................................ 64
Chromatic tuner mode ........................ 64
Oscillator mode ...................................65
Turning the power off automatically ........ 66
Restoring the initial preference settings .. 66
Viewing information ................................66
10 – SD Card Management ............68
Overview of partitions ............................. 68
Formatting cards and setting
partition sizes ...........................................68
Reformatting MTR partitions ................... 69
Reformatting the FAT partition ................70
Initializing SD cards .................................. 70
11 – Exchanging Data with a
Computer ................................71
Supported operating systems .................. 71
Connecting with a computer ................... 71
Disconnecting ...................................... 72
Song backup and restoration ................... 73
Backing-up songs ................................ 73
Restoring songs ................................... 74
Track import and export .......................... 74
Importing tracks .................................. 75
Exporting tracks .................................. 76
Exporting a stereo master track ............... 77
12 – Troubleshooting .....................78
13 – Messages ................................79
14 – Specifications and Block
Diagram ..................................81
Audio input/output ratings ......................81
Audio performance .................................. 81
General..................................................... 81
Optional accessories ................................ 82
Computer requirements ...........................82
Backup memory .......................................82
Dimensions ............................................... 83
Block diagram .......................................... 83
15 – Commonly-used Functions ....84
TASCAM DP-008 7
1 – Introduction
Thank you for your purchase of TASCAM’s 8-Track Digital Pocketstudio, the DP-008.
The DP-008 is designed to provide you with great sound in an easy-to-use compact package, allowing you to concentrate on the music, and not on the recording process.
Before connecting and using the unit, please take time to read this manual thoroughly to ensure you understand how to properly set up and connect the unit, as well as the operation of its many useful and convenient functions.
After you have nished reading this manual,
please keep it in a safe place for future reference.
You can also download the Owner’s Manual from the TASCAM web site (http://www. tascam.com).

Overview of this unit

Using an SD card this unit can record two tracks simultaneously and work with up to eight tracks in a multitrack project. Moreover, using its mixer functions, you can mix down a multitrack to create a stereo master track.
This stereo master track can then be transferred to a computer connected by USB. In addition to copying stereo master tracks from this unit to the computer, various other data, including track and song data can be transferred to a computer as back-ups.

About this manual

Please read chapter 2, “Quick Start Guides,”
rst and follow the instructions in it to learn
about and practice using this unit’s functions.
Chapter 3 explains the functions of the keys, knobs, connectors and other features. Chapters 4 and 5 explain other things you should know before you use this unit. Chapters 6 to 11 explains the uses and functions of this unit in detail. Chapters 12 and 13 provide troubleshooting information and a list of messages. Chapter 14 includes the unit’s
specications and block diagram. Chapter 15
provides functions that you might want to use
and where you can nd them in the manual

Manual conventions

This manual often refers to the DP-008 as
“the unit” and the SD card as the “card.”
When we refer to DP-008 features such as
keys and connections, we display them like this: MENU.
When we show messages, for example, that
appear on the screen, we show them like this:
SONG LOAD
The four keys beneath the LCD display are
called function keys, and are referred to as F1, F2, F3 and F4 from left to right. The functions displayed at the bottom of the screen above the keys are sometimes shown after the key name in parentheses (e.g. F4
(¥) key, F2 (
Additional information is introduced in the
styles below when needed:
TIP
We give hints and tips on using the DP-008 when you see this icon.
NOTE
A note provides additional explanations for special situations.
CAUTION
A caution shows that you may lose data (recordings) if you do not follow the instructions.
This manual cannot begin to be a full guide to multitrack recording techniques. However, if you search the Internet or visit a library you
should nd various documents on recording.
EXEC
.
) key).

Product parts

The DP-008 package contains the following items.
Take care when opening the package not to damage the items. Keep the package materials for transportation in the future.
Please contact the store where you purchased this unit if any of these items are missing or have been damaged during transportation.
8 TASCAM DP-008
1 – Introduction
Main unit• ..................................................... 1
SD Card (in the unit)• ................................... 1
USB Cable• ...................................................1
AA alkaline batteries• ................................... 4
Warranty card• .............................................. 1
Owner's Manual (this document)• ................ 1

Intellectual property rights

TASCAM is a registered trademark of
TEAC Corporation.
SDHC logo is a trademark.
Microsoft, Windows, Windows Vista, and
Windows 7 are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
Apple, Macintosh, Mac OS and Mac OS X
are trademarks of Apple Inc.
Other company names, product names and
logos in this document are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
Any data, including, but not limited to information, described herein are intended only as illustrations of such data and/or
information and not as the specications
for such data and/or information. TEAC Corporation disclaims any warranty that any use of such data and/or information shall be free from infringement of any third party’s intellectual property rights or other proprietary rights, and further, assumes no liability of whatsoever nature in the event of any such infringement, or arising from or connected with or related to the use of such data and/or information.
This product is designed to help you record and reproduce sound works to which you own the copyright, or where you have obtained permission from the copyright holder or the rightful licensor. Unless you own the copyright, or have obtained the appropriate permission from the copyright holder or the rightful licensor, your unauthorized recording, reproduction or distribution thereof may result in severe criminal penalties under copyright laws and international copyright treaties. If you are uncertain about your rights, contact your legal advisor. Under no circumstances will TEAC Corporation be responsible for the consequences of any illegal copying performed using the recorder.

About SD cards

This unit uses SD cards for recording and playback. SD and SDHC cards that are at
least 512 MB in size can be used. A list
of SD cards that have been tested with this unit can be found on the TASCAM web site (www. tascam.com).

Precautions for use

SD cards are delicate media. In order to avoid damaging a card or the card slot, please take the following precautions when handling them.
Do not leave them in extremely hot or cold
places.
Do not leave them in extremely humid
places.
Do not let them get wet.
Do not put things on top of them or twist
them.
Do not hit them.
TASCAM DP-008 9

Cautions on installation

The unit’s nominal operating temperature
is between 5˚ and 35° C (41° – 95° F).
Do not install in the following types of
places. Doing so could degrade the sound quality and/or cause malfunctions.
Places with significant vibrations or
that are otherwise unstable
Near windows or other places exposed
to direct sunlight
Near heaters or other extremely hot
places
Extremely cold places
Places with bad ventilation or high
humidity

Beware of condensation

If the unit is moved from a cold to a warm place, or used after a sudden temperature change, there is a danger of condensation; vapor in the air could condense on the internal mechanism, making correct operation impossible. To prevent this, or if this occurs, let the Pocketstudio sit for one or two hours at the new room temperature before using.
1 – Introduction

Cleaning the unit

To clean the unit, wipe gently with a soft dry cloth. Do not use any benzene, paint thinner, ethyl alcohol or other chemical agents to clean the unit as they could damage the surface.
10 TASCAM DP-008
Headphones
2 – Quick Start Guides

Playback and mixing

First, we will play the demo song on the
included SD card. The SD card with the demo song is shipped already installed but we will start by explaining how to insert an SD card
here.

Preparing to listen to the demo song

1 Open the SD card slot cover on the right
side of the unit and insert the supplied
SD card into the slot.
Do not insert the card backwards or
apply unnecessary force. This could damage the slot or card.
4 Close the battery compartment cover
after installing the batteries.
5 Connect headphones to the PHONES
connector.
5 Press and hold the STA NDBY/O N key on
the top panel until screen.
After starting up the Home Screen
appears on the display.
TASCAM
appears on
2 Close the slot cover.
3 Open the battery compartment cover
and insert four AA batteries into the compartment, paying attention to the plus/minus (+/–) orientation. This unit can use alkaline or NiMH batteries.
[Start-Up Screen]
[Home Screen]
CAUTION
Do not remove or insert the SD card • when the unit’s power is ON. Make sure the unit power is OFF before you remove
TASCAM DP-008 11
2 – Quick Start Guides
or insert the card. If you remove or insert the SD card when the unit’s power is on, the unit cannot shut down properly and all unsaved data and settings will be lost. These data and settings cannot be recovered.
Do not remove the batteries or • disconnect the power cable while the unit power is ON.
The included alkaline batteries are for • confirming operation of the unit and might not last very long.
Before turning the power ON, completely • turn down the volume of headphones and monitoring systems connected to the unit.
TIP
This unit can also be powered by a • PS-P520 power adaptor (sold separately) (see “Connecting an AC adaptor (sold separately)” on page 32).
You can monitor recordings using • speakers by connecting an amplifier or powered speakers to the LINE OUT jacks.

Playing and mixing the demo song

Before the unit is shipped, a demo song is stored on its SD card. We are now going to use basic playback and mixing features with this demo song.
1 Press the HOME key to open the Home
Screen.
2 When the Home Screen is open, press the
MENU key to open the
3 Use the DATA wheel to select the
MENU
screen.
SONG
menu, and press the F4 (¥) key to open the
SONG
menu screen.
4 Rotate the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the
LOAD
screen that shows a list of songs.
LOAD
SONG
, and
12 TASCAM DP-008
2 – Quick Start Guides
5 Rotate the DATA wheel to select
DEMO_008
The demo song loads and the
reopens.
6 Press the HOME key to reopen the Home
Screen.
, and press the F2 (
EXEC
SONG
) key.
screen
volume of all eight tracks at the same time. The standard position is around 2–3 o'clock.
Use the LEVEL knobs to adjust the
balance between TRACK 1–8 .
Use the VOLUME dial to adjust the final
monitoring level.
7 Press the playback (Á) key and turn
up the TRACK1–8 LEVEL knobs, the
MASTER LEVEL knob and the VOLUME
dial to hear the demo song.
The MASTER LEVEL knob adjusts the
8 Use the PAN knobs to adjust the stereo
position of TRACK 1–8.
TIP
Press the stop (• ª) key and the Ô key at the same time to use the RTZ (return to zero) function to go to the beginning of the song.
When using a menu, if you make a • mistake pressing a key and the wrong screen appears, press the HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
TASCAM DP-008 13
2 – Quick Start Guides

From recording to creating a master track

Here, we will try multitrack recording. In the following example, we will use an electric guitar to record a rhythm guitar part on track 1 and a lead guitar part on track 2. Then, we will use the built-in mic to record a voice on track
3. Finally, we will mix the tracks down.
In this section, we assume that you have already followed the instructions in “Playback and mixing” to connect monitoring equipment and install the SD card.
TIP
This example uses the built-in mic for recording vocals, but you could also connect an external mic to the INPUT A or INPUT B connector on the rear panel and record it.
Creating a new song
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
MENU
screen.
3 Use the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the
CREATE
screen.
CREATE
SONG
When a new song is created, it is given the name “
SONG***
” (where
***
is a number).
, and
2 Use the DATA wheel to select the
menu, and press the F4 (¥) key to open the
SONG
menu screen.
SONG
4 Change the song name as necessary. (See
“Editing names” on page 37.)
5 Press the F2 (
EXEC
) key. The currently loaded song is saved and a new song is created.
6 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
14 TASCAM DP-008
Guitar
2 – Quick Start Guides

Connecting and setting the input sources

1 Connect an electric guitar to the INPUT A
connector on the rear panel.
2 Set the MIC/LINE-GUITAR switch on the
rear panel to GUITA R .
On this screen you can set the input
sources for both
At first, the input source for
INPU T A
and
INPU T B
INPU T A
already selected.
4 Use the DATA wheel to change the
A
input source to
Ext.Input, LINE/ Low
INPUT
.
is
.
TIP
When connecting an electric-acoustic guitar with a built-in preamp or an active electric guitar, as well as when connecting an electric guitar with effect boxes between it and this unit, set the MIC/LINE–GUITAR switch to MIC/LINE.
3 Press the INPUT SET TING key to open the
INPUT SETTING
screen.
5 Press the F4 () key to select the current
input for
6. Use the DATA wheel to set the input source to
Inte rnal MIC / High
INPUT B
.
Inte rnal MIC / Low
.
INPUT B
or
TASCAM DP-008 15
TRACK 1 REC indicator
2 – Quick Start Guides
This sets MIC B , which is the built-in mic
on the right side of the front panel as the input source for
NOTE
Internal MIC / Low and Internal MIC / High change the sensitivity of the built-in mics. Set it according to the loudness of the subject being recorded.
If you are not sure which setting to use, choose Internal MIC / Low. If the input level is too low after adjusting it later, return to this screen and change the setting to
Internal MIC / High.
INPU T B
.
7 After changing the setting, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
to TRACK 1 in this example.

Adjusting the input level and monitoring

1 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
2. Press the TRACK 1 REC key. The key blinks showing that the track is in record standby.

Setting the guitar as TRACK 1 recording source

The default settings are for the the recording source for TRACK 1, 3, 5 and 7 and for the for TRACK 2, 4, 6 and 8.
In “Connecting and setting the input sources” above, we made a guitar the input source for the input source for the guitar is already set to record to TRACK 1, 3, 5 and 7 and MIC B is ready to record to TRACK
2, 4, 6 and 8.
As a result, there is no need to change the input channel assignments to record the guitar
INPUT A
INPUT B
to be the recording source
and a built-in mic (MIC B) the
INPU T B
. Therefore, the
INPU T A
to be
3 Use the INPUT A TRIM knob to adjust the
guitar input level.
Set the TRIM knob so that the INPUT A
OL indicator does not light even when
the loudest sound to be recorded is input. If the indicator continues to light even when the TRIM knob is turned down, the guitar signal itself is too loud. In this case, lower the output level on the guitar.
16 TASCAM DP-008
OL indicator
TRACK 1 REC indicator
2 – Quick Start Guides
When you play the guitar, the input level is shown by the A (INPUT A) and 1 (TRACK 1) meters on the display.
Turn up the TRACK 1 LEVEL and MASTER
LEVEL knobs and the VOLUME dial to hear the
guitar sound through headphones. When doing so, the L and R meters on the right side of the display become active.
NOTE
You can use the TRACK 1 PAN knob to • adjust the stereo position of the signal when monitoring.
The input signal cannot be monitored if • the REC indicator of the TRACK 1 that it is assigned to is not lit.

Recording guitar to TRACK 1

1 Press the playback (Á) key while
pressing and holding the record (–) key to start recording. The TRACK 1 REC key stops blinking and stays lit constantly.
You are recording. Play your guitar!
2 When you are finished, press the stop
(ª) key to stop recording.
3 Press the TRACK 1 REC key again. Its
light turns off.

Listening to your recording

1 To go to the beginning of the song, press
the Ô key while pressing and holding the stop (ª) key. (This is the Return To Zero (RTZ) function)
2 Press the playback (Á) key to play the
recorded track.
3 Use the TRACK 1 LEVEL knob and the
MASTER LEVEL knob to adjust the
playback level. Use the VOLUME dial to adjust the final monitoring volume.
TASCAM DP-008 17
2 – Quick Start Guides
TIP
Use the TR ACK 1 PAN knob to set the stereo position of the track signal.
Set which input (INPUT A or INPUT
B) is to be the recording source for each track. In the initial setting, INPUT A (A) is assigned as the recording source for tracks 1, 3, 5 and 7, and INPUT B (B) is assigned as the recording source for tracks 2, 4, 6 and 8.
2 Press the TRACK 2 REC key to set the
TRACK 2 SOURCE
to A.
3 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.

Record guitar to TRACK 2

Now, you will record lead guitar on TRACK 2 while listening to the rhythm guitar on TRACK
1. Use the following procedures to change the
recording source for TRACK 2.
1 Press the ASSIGN key to open the
ASSIGN
screen.
INPUT
4 Press the TRACK 2 REC key. The key
blinks showing that the track is in record standby.
When you play the guitar, the input
level is shown by the A (INPUT A) and 2 (TRACK 2) meters on the display.
18 TASCAM DP-008
TRACK 2 REC indicator
2 – Quick Start Guides
5 Return to the beginning of the song and
begin playback. Play the lead guitar part along with the already recorded rhythm guitar.
Raise the TRACK 2 LEVEL knob to hear
the sound of the guitar being input along with the TRACK 1 playback sound through the headphones.
7 Return to the start of the song again
and press the playback (Á) key while pressing and holding the record (–) key to start recording. The TRACK 2 REC key stops blinking and stays lit constantly.
You are recording again. Play your
guitar!
8 When you are finished, press the stop
(ª) key to stop recording.
9 Press the TRACK 2 REC key again. Its
light turns off.

Record vocals on TRACK 3

1 Press ASSIGN to open the
screen.
INPUT ASSIGN
6 Use the TRACK 1 and 2 LEVEL and PAN
knobs, the MASTER LEVEL knob and the
VOLUME dial as necessary to adjust the
monitoring levels and balance.
2 Press the TRACK 3 REC key to set the
TRACK 3 SOURCE
to B.
TASCAM DP-008 19
3 Press the HOME key to return to the
TRACK 3 REC indicator
OL indicator
Home Screen.
2 – Quick Start Guides
recorded is input.
The input level of built-in MIC B is shown by the B meter on the screen.
Raise the TRACK 3 LEVEL knob, MASTER
LEVEL knob and VOLUME dial as
necessary to hear the mic input through the headphones.
4 Press the TRACK 3 REC key. The key
blinks showing that the track is in record standby.
5 Use the INPUT B TRIM knob to adjust
the mic input level. Set the TRIM knob so that the INPUT B OL indicator does not light even when the loudest sound to be
NOTE
If the OL indicator continues to light even when the TRIM knob is turned down, the mic signal itself is too loud. In this case,
20 TASCAM DP-008
2 – Quick Start Guides
if the input setting is Internal MIC / High, change it to Internal MIC / Low. If the OL indicator continues to light even when set to Internal MIC / Low, move the sound source away from the mic or lower the volume at the sound source.
CAUTION
Always monitor through headphones when using a mic. If you monitor through speakers, feedback could occur.
6 Return to the beginning of the song and
begin playback. Sing along with the already recorded rhythm and lead guitar parts.
You can hear the playback of TRACK
1 and TRACK 2 as well your singing
through the headphones.
7 Use the TRACK 1 and TR ACK 2 LEVEL
and PAN knobs, MASTER LEVEL knob and VOLUME dial to adjust the output volume and the balance between the tracks.

Mixing the tracks

After you nish recording, the next step is to
make a stereo mix.
1 Use the LEVEL knobs for TRACK 1, 2
and 3, to adjust the levels of the tracks and the balance between them. Use the MASTER LEVEL knob to adjust the overall level.
2 Use the track PAN knobs to adjust the
stereo positioning of the tracks.
Watch the L and R meters at the right
side of the display as you adjust levels and panning.
8 Return to the start of the track again
and press the playback (Á) key while pressing and holding the record (–) key to start recording. The TRACK 3 REC key stops blinking and stays lit constantly.
You are recording again. Sing!
9 When you are finished, press the stop
(ª) key to stop recording.
10 Press the TRACK 3 REC key again. Its
light turns off.

Mastering the mix

Now we will record your stereo mix. We call this process mastering.
The time between the song’s beginning (00:00:00:00) and the OUT point will be
recorded as the stereo master track. So, rst we
must set the OUT (end) point.
1 Press the IN/OUT key to open the
SETTING
screen.
I/O
TASCAM DP-008 21
2 – Quick Start Guides
4 Press the REC MODE key to open the
RECORDER MODE
screen.
2 Play the song back, and press the F4 (
OUT
key at the position where you want the stereo master track end point.
SET O UT !
” appears and this position is set as the OUT point, which will be the end point of the master.
TIP
You can also set the OUT point when playback is stopped by pressing the F4 (OUT) key.
3 Press the F1 (
EXIT
) key (or HOME key) to
return to the Home Screen.
)
5 Turn the DATA wheel to select
REC
.
6 Press the F4 (
EXEC
into master recording mode and return to the Home Screen.
MASTER
) key to put the unit
22 TASCAM DP-008
2 – Quick Start Guides
7 Press the playback (Á) key while
pressing and holding the record (–) key to start master recording. Recording automatically ends when the recorder position reaches the OUT point.
NOTE
You can use the LEVEL knobs to adjust the track and overall levels as you record.
8 Press the REC MODE key to open the
RECORDER MODE
9 Turn the DATA wheel to select
PLAY
.
screen.
MASTER
10 Press the F4 (
EXEC
) key to put this unit
into master playback mode and return to the Home Screen.
11 Press the playback (Á) key to play the
stereo master track that you created.
NOTE
In MASTER PLAY mode, you cannot adjust the level with the MASTER LEVEL knob.
TASCAM DP-008 23
2 – Quick Start Guides

Shutting down the unit

Shutdown the unit when you are nished.
1 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
2 Press and hold the STA NDBY/O N key
until
POCKETSTUDIO
screen.
appears on the
shut down properly and all unsaved data will be lost. Lost data cannot be restored. We recommend that you also save the data manually often.
The power turns off after the unit
completes its shutdown process, including saving various information from your session.
CAUTION
Do not remove the batteries or disconnect the power cable accidently while the unit is operating. If you do so, the unit cannot
24 TASCAM DP-008
3 – Names and Functions of Parts

Top panel

1 STANDBY/ON key
Press and hold this key to turn the unit ON and OFF. (See “Start-up & shutdown” on page 32.)
2 REC MODE key
Use this key to set the recorder mode. Select between
MASTER REC
“Recorder modes” on page 33.)
3 PHANTOM key and indicator
Press this key to open the phantom power setting screen. When the phantom power is on, the indicator lights.
4 INPUT SETTING key
Press this key to select the input source. (See “Selecting the input source” on page
41.)
5 ASSIGN key
Use this to set (assign) the input (INPUT A, INPUT B) for each track. Press this key to open the the display. The input signal of the input
MULTI TRACK, BOUNCE
and
MASTER PLAY
INPUT ASSIGN
. (See
screen on
assigned to a track becomes the track’s recording source. (See “Assigning inputs” on page 43.)
6INPUT A and INPUT B TRIM knobs and
OL indicators
Use these knobs to adjust the input levels
,
for INPUT A and INPUT B. (See “Making the first recording” on page 44.)
If the input source level is too high its OL (overload) indicator lights.
7 MASTER LEVEL knob
Adjusts the monitoring level of the stereo output signal.
This knob also adjusts the recording level when performing a bounce, mix down or mastering.
8 REVERB key
Press this key to open the reverb setting screen. (See “Reverb” on page 46.)
Press this key and EQ key at the same time to open the “Muting tracks” on page 47.)
TRACK MUTE
screen. (See
TASCAM DP-008 25
3 – Names and Functions of Parts
9EQ key
Press this key to open the track EQ setting screen. (See “Track EQ (equalizer)” on page 45.)
Press this key and REVERB key at the same time to open the
TRACK MUTE
screen. (See “Muting tracks” on page 47.)
0 LCD Display
This shows various information.
q REVERB knobs (TRACK 1 - TRACK 8)
Use to adjust the amount (volume) of the track playback signal or assigned input signal that is sent to the reverb effect.
w PAN knobs (TRACK 1 - TRACK 8)
Use to adjust the stereo position of the track playback signal or assigned input signal. (See “Stereo position (panning)” on page 45.)
e LEVEL knobs (TRACK 1 - TRACK 8)
Use to adjust the monitoring level of the track playback signal or assigned input signal. (See “Level and balance” on page
45.)
r REC keys and indicators (TRACK 1 -
TRACK 8)
Use to arm a track for recording (tur n
recording ON/OFF). To monitor a track’s
input sound through headphones or a monitoring system, press that track’s REC key. When the REC key is ON, the REC indicator blinks while the unit is stopped and lights during recording.
t Function keys
The functions of these keys are shown at the bottom of the screen and depend on the current screen.
NOTE
In this manual, the four function keys are • referred to as F1, F2, F3 and F4 in order from left and right.
The function keys have the following • assignments on the Home Screen.
Stop (ª) + F1: Locate to the IN point Stop (ª) + F2: Locate to the OUT point
F3: Set the IN point F4: Set the OUT point
y DATA wheel
Use this to change parameter values when using menus.
uMENU key
Press this key to open the
MENU
screen.
i HOME key
Press this key to open the Home Screen.
When the unit is stopped and the Home Screen is open, this key is used to move between the time divisions in the counter. (See “Direct locate function” on page 54.)
o METRONOME key
Press this key to open the
METRONOME
setting screen. (See “Metronome” on page
64.)
p TUNER key
Press this key to open the
TUNER
screen.
(See “Tuner” on page 64.)
a UN/REDO key and indicator
Press this to undo the last action. Press again to redo it. (See “Undoing operations (undo)” on page 49.)
The UN/REDO indicator lights when single undo or multi-undo has been conducted and there are undone operations that can be redone.
s HISTORY key
Press this key to show the recording/ editing history. Use this screen to undo multiple operations at the same time with the multi-undo function.
dÔ/RTZ key
Press this key when the transport is stopped or playing to fast rewind. Press it again to change the speed from 10x to 50x, again for 100x and 1000x.
If you press this key while holding down the stop ( ª) key, the transport will locate to the head of the song (RTZ). (See “Retur n To Zero (RTZ) and Last Recording Position (LRP)” on page 54.)
fStop ( ª) key
Press this key alone to stop recording, playback, fast forward and fast rewind. If you press the Ô or key at the same time, the transport will also
26 TASCAM DP-008
3 – Names and Functions of Parts
locate to the head of the song (RTZ) or the last recording start position (LRP). (See “Retur n To Zero (RTZ) and Last Recording Position (LRP)” on page 54.)
g /LRP key
Press this key when the transport is stopped or playing to fast forward. Press it again to change the speed from 10x to 50x, again for 100x and 1000x.
If you press this key while holding down the stop ( ·) key, the transport will locate to the last recording start position (LRP). (See “Retur n To Zero (RTZ) and Last Recording Position (LRP)” on page 54.)
hPlayback (Á) key
Press this key to start playback. While pressing the record (–) key, press this key to star t recording. Press this key again when recording to stop recording and start playback (punch out).
jREPEAT key
Turns the repeat playback mode on and off. (See “Repeat playback” on page 55.)
kRecord (–) key and indicator
Press the playback (Á) key while pressing this key to start recording. The indicator lights when recording. If you press this key when any of the track REC indicators is blinking, or during playback, recording will begin (punch in). (See “Punching in and out” on page 52.)
Press the IN/OUT key while pressing and holding this key to enter auto punch in/out mode.
lIN/OUT key
Press this key to open the screen, and to set IN (starting) and OUT (ending) points for repeat playback and track editing. (See “Setting IN and OUT points” on page 55.)
Press this key while pressing and holding the recording (–) key to enter auto punch in/out mode.
I/O SETTING

Front panel

; MIC A /B
These are built-in omnidirectional microphones. They can be set as input sources for INPUT A/B (
Low
or
Internal MIC/High
Internal MIC/
).
TASCAM DP-008 27
3 – Names and Functions of Parts

Rear panel

zFOOT SWITCH jack
You can use a foot switch to punch in and out (start and stop recording).
x INPUT B jack (1/4” phone jack)
Use this as the input source by setting INPUT B to external input (“
Input
”) on the You can use this jack for a line level or mic level signal (unbalanced connection).
c INPUT A jack (1/4” phone jack)
Use this as the input source by setting INPUT A to on the
INPUT SETTING
use this jack for a guitar/line level or mic level signal (unbalanced connection).
Set the MIC/LINE–GUITAR switch according to the input source.
vMIC/LINE-GUITAR switch
Set this switch to match the input signal to the INPUT A jack on the rear panel. For mic or line signals, set it to MIC/LINE.
For electric guitars and basses that are
connected directly, set it to GU ITAR .
b INPUT A/INPUT B jacks ( XLR jacks)
Condenser microphones that require phantom power can receive it when they are connected to these jacks. (See “Phantom Power” on page 41.)
(Pin assignments—1: ground, 2: hot, 3: cold)
If devices are connected to both the XLR and the 1/4” phone jacks, the 1/4” phone jack is given precedence (the XLR connection is disabled).
INPUT SETTING
Ext. Input
Ext.
screen.
(external input)
screen. You can
nLINE OUT jacks
Use these to connect a monitoring system (powered speakers or an amplifier with sp eakers).
mPHONES jack
Connect headphones (with a stereo mini­plug connector) to this jack.
, VOLUME dial
Use this to adjust the volume output from the PHONES connector.
28 TASCAM DP-008
3 – Names and Functions of Parts

Right side panel

.SD card slot
Insert an SD card into this slot.
/ USB port
Connect the unit to a computer using the included USB cable. This allows to sharing, importing and exporting files between the unit and the computer, including backup of the song data. (See “Connecting with a computer” on page
71.)
! DC IN 5V connector
Connect a dedicated power adaptor (PS-P520, sold separately).
TASCAM DP-008 29
3 – Names and Functions of Parts

Bottom panel

[Inside of the battery compartment]
@ Battery compartment cover # Battery compartment
The batteries (four AA) that power the unit are inserted here.
30 TASCAM DP-008
3 – Names and Functions of Parts

Home Screen

1 Recorder mode
Shows the current recorder mode.
2 SD card protected indication
This appears when the inserted SD card is protected.
3 SD card insertion status
If an SD card is inserted appears. If not,
appears.
4 Battery status
When a battery is being used, a battery icon shows the amount of power remaining in bars ( , , ). The battery is almost dead and the power will soon turn off if the icon has no bars . When using the PS-P520 AC adaptor (sold separately) appears.
5 Recorder transport state
When playing Á appears. When stopped
·appears. When recording – appears.
6 Repeat playback/auto punch mode
indicator
When repeat playback is active appears.
The icon appears when auto punch mode is active
7 Recorder time counter
Shows the elapsed time from the start of the song.
8 Cursor key that shows the time
increment being edited
Turning the D ATA wheel changes the
value of the selected time increment.
9 Level meter and EQ status for INPUT A
and B
Shows the signal level for input sources A and B.
When INPUT EQ is ON, A and B are shown with frames ( ).
0 Level meters for tracks 1–8 and mute/EQ
status
Shows the input level when recording and the playback signal level when playing back.
When mute is ON, the track number is shown in inverse ( ). When muting
is OFF and the TRACK EQ is ON, the
track number is shown with a frame ( ).
q Level meter for stereo outputs (L, R)
Shows the output signal level from the
LINE OUT jacks.
TASCAM DP-008 31
Unprotected Protected
4 – Preparations

Preparing the power and SD card

Installing an SD card

1 Make sure the unit power is OFF. Open
the SD card slot on the right side of the unit.
2 Insert the SD Card into the slot as shown
in the following illustration until it clicks into place.
3 Close the cover.
Write-protected cards
SD cards have write-protect (lock) switches.
When the protect switch is in the LOCK
position, les cannot be recorded or edited
on the card. Slide the switch away from the LOCK position if you want to record, erase or
otherwise changed les on a card.

Preparing the power

This unit can be powered either by AA batteries or a PS-P520 AC adaptor (sold separately). Alkaline or NiMH batteries can be used with this unit.
Installing batteries
Open the battery compartment on the bottom of the unit. Insert 4 AA batteries in the box according to the + and - indications.
Ejecting the card
Push an inserted card in further to eject it.
CAUTION
Always turn the power OFF before removing the batteries or the SD card. Removing either while the power is still ON will cause any recordings and settings made since the last time the power was turned OFF or the song was saved to be lost. These data and settings cannot be recovered.
CAUTION
The unit does not have charging ability. • To use NiMH batteries, use an optional charger.
The included alkaline batteries are for • confirming the operation of the unit and might not last very long.
32 TASCAM DP-008
TASCAM PS-P520 (sold separately)
AC outlet
DC plug
4 – Preparations

Connecting an AC adaptor (sold separately)

To use the PS-P520 AC adaptor (sold separately), connect the adaptor to the unit and the adaptor to the power cord before plugging it into an outlet.
CAUTION
Use only the PS-S520 AC adapter. Using an AC adapter other than the specified can cause a malfunction, fire, or electric shock.
[Home Screen]
When the unit starts up it defaults to the
TRACK
recorder mode regardless of the mode
MULTI
used last before shutting down.
CAUTION
When switching the unit on and off, we suggest that you turn down the volume of any speakers or amplifiers connected to the unit. Also, do not wear headphones connected to the unit when switching power on or off. This will avoid damage to speakers and possible harm to your hearing.
NOTE
The adaptor powers the unit if the • adaptor is connected even if batteries are installed.
This unit can receive power from • batteries or an AC adaptor. It cannot be powered by a USB connection.

Start-up & shutdown

Starting up the unit

Press and hold the STANDBY/ON key on the top panel until “ start-up screen, the Home Screen appears.
TASCAM
” appears. After the
[Start-up Screen]

Shutting down

Make the following preparations before shutting down the unit.
Stop the recorder. (The unit cannot be shut
down during recording, playback, fast forward, etc.)
Retur n to the Home Screen.
If the unit is connected to computer,
disconnect the USB cable after conducting the necessary procedures on the computer to unmount the unit.
After making these preparations, press and hold the STANDBY/ON key until the following screen appears.
The power turns off after the unit completes its shutdown process, including saving various information from your session.
TASCAM DP-008 33
4 – Preparations
CAUTION
Do not remove the batteries or • disconnect the power cable accidently while the unit is operating. If you do so, the unit cannot shut down properly and all unsaved data will be lost. Lost data cannot be restored. We recommend that you also save the data manually often.
When the power is turned off, the • operation history of the currently loaded song will be erased (cleared). You will not be able to undo or redo operations on the song when you turn the power back on.

Formatting SD cards

To use a new SD card with this unit, it is
necessary to format it rst. SD cards formatted
by the unit are divided into MTR partitions and
FAT partitions. SD cards with high capacities
can be formatted with multiple partitions.
For more information about partitions see “10 – SD Card Management” on page 68.
NOTE
The included SD card is already formatted so formatting is not necessary. If you format this card the demo song on it will be erased.
1 Set a new SD card.
The first time you put a new SD card in this unit, a screen prompting you to format it appears.
CAUTION
If you format it, all data saved by the other device will be erased and you will not be able to recover it.
2 Press the F3 (
YES
) key to format the card
including creating the standard number of partitions for the card capacity.
The Home Screen appears after the format completes correctly.
NOTE
To cancel formatting press the F4 (NO) • key.
Depending on the card capacity, the • partition setting can be changed in some cases. To do so, set the partition size in the FORMAT item in the CARD menu before formatting (see “10 – SD Card Management” on page 68).

Recorder modes

This unit has four recorder modes.
MULTI TRACK
This mode allows the unit to operate as a multitrack recorder.
BOUNCE
Use this mode to bounce tracks. (See “Bouncing tracks” on page 53.)
MASTER REC
Use this mode to mix down tracks and create a stereo master track. (See “Mastering” on page 48.)
NOTE
The screen prompting you to format it also appears if you put in an SD card that has been formatted by any device other than this unit.
MASTER PLAY
Use this to play a stereo master track that has been created.
When the power is turned ON, the unit always starts in
When in modes other than
MULTI TRACK
mode.
MULTI TRACK
mode, some screen operations do not function.
In this Owner’s Manual, unless otherwise noted, the recorder mode explained is assumed to be the
MULTI TRACK
mode.
34 TASCAM DP-008
Connect guitar/bass to INPUT A
Connect electronic keybard to INPUT A and B
Drum machine
Foot switch
Headphones
Powered speakers or amplifier and speakers
Connect mics to INPUT A and B
TASCAM PS-P520 (Optional)
AC outlet
DC plug
USB
Computer
4 – Preparations

Connecting with other equipment

Rear panel connections

Right side panel connections

NOTE
Recorder functions cannot be used when connected to a computer by USB.

Adjusting the contrast

The LCD display contrast can be adjusted.
Use the following procedures to adjust the contrast.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
PREFERENCE
open the
and press the F4 (¥) key to
PREFERENCE
3 Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
the
Contrast
value, and turn the DATA
wheel to adjust the display contrast.
The selection range is from 1–10.
The default setting is 5.
Lower values make the display lighter while higher values make it darker. The display appears different depending on the angle from which you view it, so adjust it while the unit is in the actual position that you plan to use it in. Adjusting the contrast might make it easier to read.
4 After making the setting, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
MENU
screen.
screen.
TASCAM DP-008 35

Setting the backlight

To reduce power consumption when using batteries, you can change the length of time that the backlight stays lit.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key.
2 Use the DATA wheel to select the
PREFERENCE
key to open the
3 Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
the setting value of the and use the DATA wheel to set the amount of time that the backlight stays lit.
menu, and press the F4 (¥)
PREFERENCE
screen.
Bac k Light
item,
4 – Preparations
The setting options are
15sec
and
30sec
OFF, 5sec, 10sec
. When set to
OFF
the
backlight always stays lit.
The default setting is
OFF
.
4 After making the setting, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
,
36 TASCAM DP-008
5 – Song Management
This unit manages data in song les. Ordinarily, every song is given its own le. The rst step is to load the song that you want
to manage (load an existing song or create a new song).
In a song, the audio data for the recorded multitrack (TRACK 18) and stereo master track that have been created are saved.
This chapter, starts with an explanation of SD card partitions, and then covers basic operations, including procedures for loading songs and creating new song, as well as various song management functions.

Partitions and songs

This unit uses SD cards to record songs. SD cards formatted by the unit are divided into partitions. “MTR partitions” are for the
recording of data and “FAT partitions” can be
read by a personal computer. SD cards with high capacities are formatted with multiple MTR partitions.
When you want to record, playback or edit a song, select an MTR partition to make it the active partition and load a song on it or create a new song.

Selecting the active partition

If you want to use a le that is on a partition
other than the currently active partition in order to load an existing song or create a new song on it, you must change the partition.
Follow these steps to select a partition on an
SD card that has multiple MTR partitions.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Use the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the menu screen.
MENU
screen.
CARD
CARD
and
3 Use the DATA wheel to select
and press the F4 (¥) key to open the
PA RTITIO N
MTR partition list.
An asterisk (Ú) shows the active partition. The sizes of the partitions are shown (not available space).
4 Rotate the DATA wheel to select the
partition and press F2 ( mation message appears.
5 Press F3 (
current song before changing partitions. It then loads the last used song on that partition.
screen. The display shows the
[SD card with one partition]
[SD card with multiple partitions]
YES
) to select. The unit saves the
EXEC
PA RTITIO N
). A confir-
TASCAM DP-008 37
5 – Song Management

Editing names

You can edit names on the following screens.
When creating, saving or editing the name
of a track (SAVE, CREATE and NAME EDIT)
When exporting a WAV file (EXPORT
TRACK and EXPORT MASTER)
When backing up a song (SONG BACKUP)
Use the following methods to edit names.
Use the Ô/ keys to move the cursor (underline) position. The character at the cursor position is the one that is edited.
Use the
DATA wheel to change the char-
acters at the cursor (underline) position. Ordinary symbols, numerals and English upper and lower case letters can be select­ed.
To insert a blank at the cursor position
when editing a song name, press the F3 (
INS
) key. Press it again to insert an “A” in
the blank space.
Press the
F4 (
DEL
) key to delete the charac-
ter at the cursor position.
When finished inputting and editing, press
the F2 (
EXEC
) key to save the edited name.

Loading a saved song

partition appears with an asterisk (Ú) next to the current song.
4 Use the DATA wheel keys to select the
song to load and press F2 (
EXEC
). The
current song is saved, and the selected song is loaded.
5 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.

Creating a new song

Follow these procedures to create a new song
in the active partition
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Use the DATA wheel to select
press F4 (¥) to open the screen.
3 Use the DATA wheel to select
press F4 (¥) to open the screen.
MENU
screen.
SONG
SONG
menu
CREATE
SONG CREATE
and
and
Follow these procedures to load a song from
the active partition.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Use the DATA wheel to select
press F4 (¥) to open the
MENU
SONG
screen.
SONG
menu
and
screen.
3 Use the DATA wheel to select
press F4 (¥) to open the
LOAD
SONG LOAD
and
screen. A list of the songs on the active
38 TASCAM DP-008
5 – Song Management
A default song name like
SONG***
is given to the new song. The asterisks indicate a number. In the example above the name is
SONG005
.
4 Change the song name as necessary (see
“Editing names” on page 37).
TIP
You can rename a song later by selecting NAME EDIT from the SONG menu. You can also edit the song name when saving it.
5 Press F2 (
EXEC
) to save the currently
loaded song and create the new song.
6 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.

Saving a song

This unit automatically saves the current song during shutdown and when loading another song, for example. You can also save a song at any time using the following procedures.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the menu screen.
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key.
The
SONG SAVE
MENU
screen.
screen appears.
SONG
SONG
SAVE
, and
, and
4 Change the song name if you want and
then press the F2 (
EXEC
) key (see “Editing
names” on page 37).
5 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.

Viewing song information

You can check the name, partition and remaining recording time of the currently loaded song.
1. Press the MENU key to open the screen.
2. Turn the DATA wheel to select
INFORMATION
This opens the
INFORMATION
and press the F4 (¥) key.
SONG (1/3)
screen, which shows the name and remaining recording time of the current song.
MENU
page of the
NOTE
The INFORMATION screen has three pages, including SONG (1/3), CARD (2/3) and F/W (3/3). Use the F1 (PREV) and F4 (NEXT) keys to change the page (see “Viewing infor­mation” on page 66).

Copying songs

Songs in the currently active partition can be copied to the same and different MTR partitions. Multiple songs can also be copied at once.
TASCAM DP-008 39
5 – Song Management
1 When the recorder is stopped, press
MENU to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the menu screen.
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key.
This opens the shows a list of songs in the active partition.
4 Turn the DATA wheel to select a song that
you want to copy, and press the F4 () key.
The song is selected as a copy source and a check appears in the checkbox.
MENU
screen.
SONG COPY
SONG
, and
SONG
COPY
, and
screen, which
7 Turn the DATA wheel to select the copy
destination partition and press the F4
(
EXEC
) key.
When copying completes, the
SONG
menu
screen reopens.
8 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
To cancel copying a song, press the
(
BACK
) key instead of the F4 (
EXEC
F1
) key.

Erasing songs

Songs can be erased. You can also erase mul­tiple songs at once. You might want to erase unneeded songs if the SD card starts to run out of open space.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press
MENU to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the menu screen.
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key.
MENU
screen.
SONG
SONG
ERASE
, and
and
NOTE
To remove the check from the checkbox (deselect the song), press the F4 () key
while the song is selected.
5 To copy multiple songs, repeat step 4.
6 After selecting all the songs that you
want to copy, press the F2 (
NEXT
) key to
open a screen where you can select the partition that you want to be the copy destination.
This opens the
SONG ERASE
screen, which
shows a list of songs in the active partition.
40 TASCAM DP-008
5 – Song Management
4 Turn the DATA wheel to select a song that
you want to erase and press the F4 () key.
A check appears in the checkbox.
NOTE
To remove the check from the checkbox (deselect the song), press the F4 () key
while the song is selected.
5 To erase multiple songs, repeat step 4.
6 After selecting all songs that you want to
erase, press the F2 (
EXEC
) key.
A confirmation screen opens.

Protecting songs

If you protect a song, editing, recording, and erasing of that song is prohibited.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the menu screen.
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select
and press the F4 (¥) key.
The
SONG PROTECT
to turn protection of a song ON and appears.
MENU
screen.
SONG
, and
SONG
PROTECT
screen that allows you
OFF
,
7 Press the F3 (
erased, the
YES
) key. After the songs are
SONG
menu screen reopens.
8 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
To cancel erasing a song, press the
key instead of the F3 (
Every MTR partition must always have at
YES
) key.
F4 (NO)
least one song, so if you erase all the songs on a partition, a new song is created auto­matically.
4 Turn the DATA wheel to turn
“ON,” and press the F2 (
After protection is turned ON, the
EXEC
PROTECT
) key.
SONG
menu screen reopens.
5 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
When the song list used to copy, erase and
conduct other functions is open, a lock icon appears next to protected songs.
If you try to execute a prohibited operation
(edit, record, erase) on a protected song, “
Song Protected
” appears and the
operation is prevented.
To remove protection from a song, follow
the above procedures but set “
OFF
” in step 4.
PROTECT
to
TASCAM DP-008 41
Indicator
6 – Basic Recording

Selecting the input source

This unit has two inputs (INPUT A and INPUT
B) that can be selected separately as input
sources.
The built-in mics (front panel MIC A and MIC
B) or external input signals (inputs through the INPUT A and INPUT B jacks on the rear panel)
can be selected as input sources. In addition to mic and line signals, the INPUT A 1/4” phone jack input can accept guitar input. Set the
MIC/LINE–GUITAR switch on the rear panel
according to the type of input.
1 Press the INPUT SET TING key to open the
INPUT SETTING
Use the
set the input sources for the INPUT A and
INPUT B.
2 Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
the
INPUT A
the DATA wheel to select the input source.
INPUT A/B
Choices Descriptoin
Internal MIC / Low
Internal MIC / High
Ext. Input, LINE / Low
Ext. Input / Mid
Ext. Input / Hig h
3 After changing the setting, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
4 If a source that uses the INPUT A
connector is selected as the input source in step 2 above, set the MIC/
screen.
INPUT A
or
and
INPUT B
selection choices
Built-in MIC A/B (low
(default)
sensitivity)
Built-in MIC A/B (high sensitivity)
External input A/B (low sensitivity)
External input A/B (middle sensitivity)
External input A/B (high sensitivity)
INPU T B
items to
setting, and turn
INPU T A
LINE–GUITAR switch on the rear side
panel appropriately. Set it to GUI TAR when connecting an electric guitar or electric bass directly. Set it to MIC/LINE when inputting a mic or line signal.
TIP
When connecting an electric-acoustic guitar with a built-in preamp or an active electric guitar, as well as when connecting an electric guitar with effect boxes between it and this unit, set the MIC/LINE–GUITAR switch to MIC/LINE.

Phantom power

When connecting a condenser microphone that requires phantom power, follow the procedures below to turn phantom power ON. When phantom power is ON, phantom power is provided to both INPUT A and INPUT B XLR jacks.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press
the PHANTOM key to open the screen.
PHANTOM
42 TASCAM DP-008
Overload warning bar
6 – Basic Recording
2 Press F4 (ON) to turn phantom power ON.
The indicator above the PHANTOM key lights, and the Home Screen reopens.
To turn phantom power OFF, press the
F1 (
OFF
) key in the previous step.
CAUTION
Turn the LEVEL knobs down before • turning phantom power ON or OFF. Depending on the mic, a loud noise could occur, damaging equipment and harming people’s hearing.
Do not connect or disconnect a mic when • phantom power is ON. This could cause a loud noise and damage equipment.
Turn phantom power ON only when • using a condenser microphone that requires phantom power.
Do not supply phantom power to an • unbalanced dynamic microphone. Doing so could break it.
Supplying phantom power to some types • of ribbon microphones could break them. Do not supply phantom power to a ribbon microphone if you are in doubt.
Battery consumption is faster when • phantom power is ON.

About the OL indicators and level meters

The audio levels of this unit can be checked using the INPUT A/B OL indicators and the level meters on the Home Screen.
The meters allow the signal levels to be
checked, and they can also be used to conrm
whether signals are being input into the unit.
For example, if the input meters are moving
a signal is being input into the unit even if you cannot hear anything when you are monitoring.
As shown below, if a “–” appears at the top of a meter, the level is too high (when a “–”
appears, it will stay on screen for a while before automatically disappearing). If the level
is too high and a “–” appears, the sound might be distorted, so lower the level until a “–”
stops appearing.
If an OL indicator lights, the signal from the input source could be too loud or the TRIM knob too high.
If the OL indicator lights even though the
TRIM knob is set to the minimum position, the
input source signal is too strong. Change the
INPUT SETTING
input source.
or lower the volume on the
To monitor an input signal press the REC key for the TRACK set to record that signal. This will light/blink its REC indicator.
When the unit is playing back, both the playback signal and the input source signals are mixed and output through the PHONES and LINE OUT jacks and can be heard with connected headphones and monitoring systems.

Monitoring input signals

NOTE
Input level meters (A, B)
The two meters on the left side of this unit show the input levels of the INPUT A and
INPUT B.
Use the INPUT A and INPUT B TRIM knobs, the
INPUT SETTING
and the output volume of
the input source to adjust the level.
Track level meters (1–8)
These meters show either the playback signal level or the input signal level for each track. The signal levels shown by the track meters
TASCAM DP-008 43
6 – Basic Recording
depend on the operating conditions as shown below.
REC
indicator not lit during playback: track
playback signal
REC
indicator blinking (record standby)
during playback: track playback signal
REC
indicator blinking (record standby)
when the recorder is stopped: track input signal
REC
indicator lit (during recording): track
input signal
NOTE
When the playback signal is shown, the level of the recorded signal of the track is shown, so the level shown by the meters cannot be changed. When the input signal is being shown, the input levels, and thus the meters, can be changed using the TRIM knobs for INPUT A and INPUT B.
Stereo level meters (L, R)
These show the stereo bus output level of this unit. Adjust the output level with the MASTER
LEVEL knob.

Assigning inputs

the recording source for tracks 2, 4, 6 and
8
.
2 Use the REC keys to set the input source
for each track to either A (INPUT A) or B (INPUT B).
3 When finished making settings, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.

Using input EQ

INPUT A and INPUT B each have a two-band
equalizer (EQ).
Use the
INPUT SETTING
EQ.
1 Press the INPUT SET TING key to open the
INPUT SETTING
2 Press the F2 (EQ) key to open the
equalizer setting screen.
screen to set input
screen.
When using this unit, “assigning inputs” means setting the recording source for each track to either INPUT A or INPUT B.
This unit can simultaneously record a maximum of two tracks. You can also record one input to two tracks simultaneously (in this case, you cannot use the other input). You cannot assign two inputs to the same track.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press
ASSIGN to open the
INPUT ASSIGN
screen.
In the initial setting, A (INPUT A) is assigned as the recording source for tracks
1, 3, 5
and 7, and B (INPUT B) is assigned as
The input equalizer has the following parameters.
Parameter Setting value
EQ-SWITCH
switch)
Hi- F
range)
Hi- G
gain)
Lo-F
range)
Lo-G
gain)
(input EQ
(high frequency
(high range
(low frequency
(low range
ON/OFF (Default: OFF)
1.7 kHz – 18 kHz
(Default: 5 kHz)
±12 dB (Default: 0.0 dB)
32 Hz – 1.6 kHz (Default: 350 Hz)
±12 dB (Default: 0.0 dB)
44 TASCAM DP-008
Input EQ is ON
6 – Basic Recording
Use the F2 (˙¥) key to switch between
INPUT A and B.
Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
parameters.
Use the DATA wheel to adjust the
parameters.
Press the F1 (
previous
BACK
) key to return to the
INPUT SETTING
screen.
3 After making the settings, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
NOTE
When input EQ is ON for an input, the input is shown on the Home Screen as in the illus­tration below.

Making the first recording

Before beginning the following recording procedures, prepare your monitors (headphones), connect a recording source to an input and assign that input as the recording source for a track.
1 Press the REC key of the track to record
on. The REC indicator blinks red (that status is called “record standby”). A maximum of two tracks can be recorded simultaneously. If you press a different
REC key when the REC indicators of
two tracks are already blinking, the track that was put into record standby first will become inactive and the REC indicator will turn off.
For example, if you press the REC keys
for TRACK 1, TRACK 2 and TRACK 3 in that order, TRACK 1, which was pressed first, will no longer be in record standby, but TRACK 2 and TR ACK 3, which were
pressed afterwards, will be in record standby.
2 Set the recording level. Turn the (INPUT
A or INPUT B) TRIM knob to adjust the
input level of the input channel. Watch the display meters and the OL indicator above and to the left of the TRIM knob while setting the level suitably. At the same time, confirm that sound heard from the headphones or the monitor system is not distorted.
NOTE
The level meter of the track that has • an input signal assigned to it shows the input level af ter the application of input EQ. Therefore, when using input EQ, you should also watch the level meter of the track that has the affected input signal assigned to it.
The • OL indicator lights if the input is too loud.
If the • OL indicator stays lit even when you lower the TRIM knob, lower the output level on the signal source connected to the input.
3 Press the playback (Á) key while
pressing and holding the record (–) key.
Recording starts and the record (–) key indicator lights red. The track REC indicator changes from blinking to lit.
4 Press the stop (ª) key to stop recording.
5 To return to the starting point of the
recording, press the key while pressing and holding the stop (ª) key. (This is the Last Recording Point (LRP) function.)
To go to the beginning of the song
(00:00:00:00), press the Ô key while pressing and holding the stop (ª) key. (This is the Return To Zero (RTZ) function)
6 Press the playback (Á) key to play the
recorded track. Use the track LEVEL knob and the MASTER LEVEL knob to adjust the playback level. Use the
VOLUME dial or the volume on your
monitoring system to adjust the final
TASCAM DP-008 45
6 – Basic Recording
monitoring volume.
Use the PAN knobs to set the stereo
positions (between the left and right speakers) of each track signal.
NOTE
The PAN and LEVEL knobs of each track control that track’s playback output signal or monitored input signal. They do not control the signal being recorded to the track.
If you are not satisfied with the recorded
sound, follow the procedures above again from the beginning.
Press the
forward (like a tape recorder). Press and hold these keys to increase the rewind/fast forward speed. Press the stop (ª) key to stop.
Ô/
keys to rewind/fast

Multitrack recording

You can record new sounds to different tracks while playing back already recorded tracks.

REC indicator settings

Turn OFF the
recorded tracks.
Press the
want to overdub to put it into record stand­by (REC indicator blinking).

Track pan and level settings

Use the LEVEL and PAN knobs of already recorded tracks to adjust their level and stereo positions for monitoring during overdubbing.

Input selection and assignment

Use the procedures described earlier in this chapter to assign input sources to tracks for recording.
REC indicators of already
REC key on the track that you
Just as though you were recording, you can monitor the sound of already recorded tracks playing back and the input source on the track for recording, allowing you to check the monitor balance and volume.

Making additional recordings

Press the playback (Á) key while pressing and holding the record (–) key.
This allows you to create a new recording on a different track while listening to the sound of tracks playing back.

Mixdown

Adjusting the volumes and stereo positions of the recorded tracks to create a well-balance stereo mix is called mixdown.

Level and balance

Use the TRACK 18 LEVEL knobs to adjust the relative balance between tracks. Use the
MASTER LEVEL knob to adjust the overall
level. Watching the L/R meters at the right of the display, adjust the level until it is suitable. If the volume is too loud, the sound will be distorted.
NOTE
The track meters on the Home Screen show the recorded signal levels on the tracks. Therefore, these meters do not change even when the LEVEL knobs are adjusted.
TIP
You do not need to keep the entire song at the same volume. For example, you could gradually increase the volume during a guitar solo.

Stereo position (panning)

Using the PAN knob for a track, you can adjust the track signal’s stereo position.

Input level settings

When nished making settings, press the
playback (Á) key to start playback.

Track EQ (equalizer)

Each track has a 2-band equalizer (EQ).
46 TASCAM DP-008
Track EQ is ON
6 – Basic Recording
Set the track EQ using the
EQ SETTING
1 Press the EQ key to open the
screen.
2 Set the track EQ (equalizer).
The track equalizer has the following parameters.
Parameter Setting value
EQ-SWITCH
switch)
Hi- F
range)
Hi- G
gain)
Lo-F
range)
Lo-G
gain)
(track EQ
(high frequency
(high range
(low frequency
(low range
ON/OFF (Default: OFF)
1.7 kHz – 18 kHz
(Default: 5 kHz)
±12 dB (Default: 0.0 dB)
32 Hz – 1.6 kHz (Default: 350 Hz)
±12 dB (Default: 0.0 dB)
screen.
EQ SETTING
NOTE
When track EQ is ON for a track, the track is shown on the Home Screen as in the illus­tration below.

Reverb

This unit has six types of reverb effects.
Adjust the level of the signal sent to the reverb effect from each track by using their REVERB knobs.
The signals are sent to the reverb effect after track EQ (equalizer) is applied.
1 Press the REVERB key to open the
REVERB SETTING
screen.
Use the F1 (˙) and F2 (¥) keys to switch
tracks.
Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
parameters.
Use the DATA wheel to adjust the
parameters.
3 After making the track EQ settings,
press the HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
2 Adjust the reverb settings for the
following parameters.
Parameter Setting value
TYPE
Hall 1/Hall 2/Room/ Studio/Plate 1/Plate 2 (Default: Hall 1)
TASCAM DP-008 47
Track mute ON indication
6 – Basic Recording
TIME
0.2 (0.8 for plate type) –
3.2 seconds (Default: 1.8 sec)
LEVEL
Use
Use
TYPE
TIME
0 – 100 (Default: 80)
to set the type of reverb.
to adjust the reverb time
(depth).
Use
LEVEL
to adjust the amount (volume)
of the reverb.
The signal after the reverb effect is applied (return signal) is mixed into the stereo signal.
3 After making the reverb settings, press
the HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
4 Use the track REVERB knobs to adjust
the amount of signal sent to the reverb effect from each track.

Muting tracks

1 Press the EQ key and REVERB key at
the same time to open the screen.
2 Press the REC key of a track to turn
mute ON or OFF. When mute is ON, the track number is shown in inverse (dark number on light background).
TRACK MUTE
NOTE
The reverb default values are as follows.
TYPE
Hall 1
1.8 80
Hall 2
2.2 80
Room
1.4 10
Stu dio
0.6 20
Plat e 1
Plat e 2
When the setting value is the same as the default value, INI appears below the setting value.
Default values
TIME
LEVEL
1.4 60
1.8 60
3 After muting the tracks as desired, press
the HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
NOTE
When mute is ON for a track, the track number is shown on the Home Screen in inverse (dark number on light background).
48 TASCAM DP-008
6 – Basic Recording

Mastering

When you are satised with your mix, this unit
can record and create a stereo master track internally. We call this process mastering. A stereo master track recorded by this unit is saved as part of the song, and can be recorded by an external stereo recorder. It can also be
converted by the unit into a WAV le and
exported to a computer (see “Exporting a stereo master track” on page 77).
NOTE
Only one stereo master track can be made in a song at a time.

Setting the end point

Before you start mastering, set the mastering end point. The time between the song’s zero point (00: 00: 00: 00) and the OUT point will be recorded as the stereo master track. Ordinarily, the end point of the song is set as the OUT point. In this case, the time at the OUT point is the length of the song. Use the following procedures to set the OUT (end) point.
1 Press the IN/OUT key to open the
SETTING
screen.
I/O
TIP
You can also set the OUT point when playback is stopped by pressing the F4 (OUT) key.
3 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
NOTE
For how to adjust the OUT point and for other functions, see “Setting IN and OUT points” on page 55.

Recording the master track

Set the OUT point before you start mastering.
1 Press the REC MODE key to open the
RECORDER MODE
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
REC
.
screen.
MASTER
2 Play the song back, and press the F4
(
OUT
) key at the position where you want
the stereo master track end point. “
OUT!
” appears and this position is set as
the OUT point.
SET
3 Press the F4 (
EXEC
) key to put the unit
into master recording mode and return to the Home Screen. In this mode, the track mix signal (which will be recorded) is heard through headphones or a monitoring system during playback and recording.
TASCAM DP-008 49
6 – Basic Recording
NOTE
You cannot enter MASTER REC mode if • you have not set an OUT point.
If you try to enter MASTER REC mode • when the length of the interval between IN and OUT points is too short, a “trk too short” pop-up message appears and you cannot enter MASTER REC mode.
In MASTER REC mode, you cannot change • the OUT point.
Some playback functions and other • functions do not work when the unit is in master recording mode. If you try to use one of these functions, an “In Master Mode” pop-up message appears.
4 Press the playback (Á) key while
pressing and holding the record (–) key to start master recording.
The record (–) key indicator lights.
Regardless of the prior recorder position, recording starts from the 00:00:00:00 point (start of song).
Use the LEVEL and PAN knobs as
necessary to control the mix. These adjustments do affect the recorded stereo master track.
Recording automatically ends when the recorder position reaches the OUT point.
After it ends, do the following to listen to the master track that you created.
5 Press the REC MODE key to open the
RECORDER MODE
6 Turn the DATA wheel to select
PLAY
.
7 Press the F4 (
screen.
EXEC
) key to put this unit
MASTER
into master playback mode and return to the Home Screen.
8 Press the playback (Á) key to play the
stereo master track that you created.
The playback signal of the stereo master track is output through the PHONES or
LINE OUT connector, so it can also be
dubbed to an external stereo recorder.
9 If you are satisfied with this stereo
master track, press the REC MODE key to open the the DATA wheel to select and press the F4 (
RECORDER MODE
MULTI TRACK
EXEC
) key to put the
screen. Turn
unit into multitrack mode (ordinary mode) again and return to the Home Screen.
If you do not like the stereo master track
you made, follow the above procedures to make a master recording again. The new stereo master track replaces the previous stereo master track.
NOTE
To listen to the recorded stereo master track in a saved song, load the song, set the recorder mode to MASTER PLAY and press
the playback (Á) key to start playback.
TIP
A stereo master track can be copied to any track pair among tracks 1–8 by creating a “clone” track (see “CLONE TRACK (track duplication)” on page 62).

Undoing operations (undo)

This unit allows you to undo an operation or recording that did not work as planned or was otherwise unsatisfactory. Undo can be used on many ordinary operations, including editing and recording operations. This unit has two types of undo functions. Single undo can be used with a simple key press, while multi-undo
allows you to return to and undo a specic past
operation.
NOTE
The UN/REDO indicator lights when single undo or multi-undo has been conducted and there are undone operations that can be redone.
50 TASCAM DP-008
Indicator
6 – Basic Recording

Undoing the last operation (single undo)

Press the UN/REDO key to return to the state before the last operation was conducted. After doing this, the UN/REDO indicator lights, showing that redo (see below) is possible.
Cancelling an undo operation (redo)
Press the UN/REDO key when it is lit to return to the state of the last operation. The UN/
REDO indicator turns OFF.
NOTE
If single undo is used when multi-undo (described below) has already been used to return the unit to a previous state, it will go one more step backward.
If you press the UN/REDO key again to redo, the single undo operation is cancelled, and the previous multi-undo state is restored. In this case, the operations undone by multi­undo are still retained in history, so the UN/ REDO indicator stays lit.

Undoing a previous operation (multi-undo)

1 Press the HISTORY key to open the
HISTORY
screen.
This screen shows the operation history as a list. Each operation in the list is called an “event.” The event list starts at the bottom with event number “0” (
-START UP-
). The top event
is the most recent and has “*” next to it.
All events that occurred after a selected event can be undone at once. This operation is called “multi-undo” because it allows you to undo multiple events and return to an earlier state.
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select the event
that you want to return to (all events after the selected event will be undone).
3 Press the F2 (
EXEC
) key to execute the
multi-undo and restore the song state to just after the selected event was conducted. In this state, the UN/REDO indicator lights.
The unit has been returned to a previous state, but the event information undone through the above operation is not erased. The unit has simply been returned to a previous state. On the
HISTORY
screen, a * appears next to the most recent event after undoing.
NOTE
When the HISTORY screen is open, the UN/ REDO key does not function, so single undo and redo cannot be used.
CAUTION
When saving a song, a maximum of 500 • items can be saved in the operation history as song data. If the operation history exceeds 500 items, the oldest events in the histor y are erased when the song is saved. Erased events cannot be restored.
When the power is turned OFF the • operation history is completely erased. The operation history is not restored when the power is turned ON again.
TASCAM DP-008 51
6 – Basic Recording

Erasing the operation history

When the power is turned OFF, the operation
history of the currently loaded song is erased (cleared). The operation history is not restored, so past operations cannot be undone or redone when the power is turned ON again.
NOTE
The operation histories of songs that are not loaded are not erased when the power is turned OFF.
You can also erase (clear) the operation history of the currently loaded song without turning
the power OFF.
1 Press the HISTORY key to open the
HISTORY
2 Press the F4 (
message appears.
screen.
CLEAR
) key. A confirmation
TIP
If you open the HISTORY screen immedi-• ately after erasing the operation history, the event (operation) that appears is “0” (START UP), showing that the operation history has been cleared.
If you want to keep the operation history • even when you power OFF, turn song protect ON before turning the power OFF (see “Protecting songs” on page 40).
CAUTION
You cannot undo erasing the operation history! Only do it if you are certain about it.
3 Press the F3 (
YES
) key. A confirmation
message appears again.
4 Press the F3 (
YES
) key to clear the
operation history and erase unused data.
The Home Screen reopens when this operation completes.
To cancel erasing the operation history,
press the F4 (
NO
) key.
52 TASCAM DP-008
Foot switch
7 – Recorder Functions

Punching in and out

Punching in/out is a technique to replace a part of an already recorded track.
Start playback and when you reach the part that you want to replace, switch to record (punch in), then switch back to playback (or
stop) when you nish the part that you want to
replace (punch out).
1 Decide what part of the track you plan
to replace and choose a point to begin where the new recording can sit well with the existing recording.
2 Press the REC key of the track that you
plan to replace part of to start record standby (REC indicator blinks).
3 Start playback before the part of the
track that you want to replace.
4 Press the record (–) key to start
recording (punch in) when you reach the part. Play or sing what you want to record.
5 Press the playback (Á) key to switch to
playback (punch out) when you finish the replacement recording.
TIP
You can also press the stop ( ª) key to punch out at the end of the replacement recording.

Using the foot switch to punch in/out

Using a foot switch connected to the FOOT
SWITCH jack on the rear panel, you can punch
in and out.
In step 4 above, step on the foot switch instead of pressing the record (º) key. In step 5, step on the foot switch again instead of pressing the playback (Á) key.
Set the foot switch polarity on the
PREFERENCE
Connect the foot switch, and, without stepping on it, set set the unit to operate properly for the polarity of the connected foot switch.
1 Connect a foot switch to the FOOT
2 When the recorder is stopped and the
3 Use the DATA wheel to select the
4 Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
5 Without stepping on the foot switch, use
6 After making the setting, press the

Setting the foot switch polarity

screen.
FootSW Polarity
SWITCH jack on the rear panel.
Home Screen is open, press the MENU key.
PREFERENCE
menu and press the F4 (¥)
key to open the
FootSW Polarity
the DATA wheel to set the value to
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
to
OFF
PREFERENCE
.
. This will
screen.
OFF
.
TASCAM DP-008 53
TRACK 1
Drum L
TRACK 2
Drum R
TRACK 3
Perc. L
TRACK 4
Perc. R
TRACK 5
Bass
TRACK 6
Piano L
TRACK 7
Piano R
TRACK 8
SE
TRACK 3 Perc. L (Over­ writing possible)
TRACK 4 Perc. R (Over­ writing possible)
TRACK 8 SE (Over­ writing possible)
TRACK 7 Piano R (Over­ writing possible)
TRACK 5 Bass (Over­ writing possible)
TRACK 6 Piano L (Over­ writing possible)
TRACK 1 & 2
Rhythm, Bass, Piano, SE
TRACK 1 & 2
Rhythm, Bass, Piano, SE
TRACK 3
Guitar L
TRACK 4
Guitar R
TRACK 5
Lead Guitar
TRACK 6
Lead Vocal
TRACK 7
Chorus L
TRACK 8
Chorus R
New recording possible on tracks 3-8
Bounce tracks 1-8 to mix down to tracks 1-2

Bouncing tracks

Use this unit’s bounce function to mix already
recorded tracks (1–8) down to one or two
tracks.
Multitrack tape recorders can only bounce to an open track (in other words, they can not record to a track that is also a source of
the mix). For example, tracks 1–7 could be bounced to track 8, but tracks 1–8 could not be
bounced to track 1. This unit, however, does not have this limitation. You can bounce tracks
1–8 to mix down to tracks 1 and 2 (stereo bounce), or bounce tracks 1–8 as a mono mix
to track 1 (mono bounce).
NOTE
Inside this unit, a mixdown is made to create a mix master that is recorded to the desig­nated tracks.
Source tracks are erased when they are bounce destinations. (In the illustration above the drum parts are overwritten by the stereo mix). However, you can use the unit’s (undo) function to return to the previous state if you make a mistake (see “Undoing the last operation (single undo)” on page 50).

Using the bounce function

1 Press REC MODE to open the
MODE
screen.
RECORDER
7 – Recorder Functions
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
3 Press the F4 (
EXEC
) key to put the unit in
bounce mode and return to the Home Screen.
4 Press the REC keys for the bounce desti-
nation tracks (the indicators blink).
For a stereo bounce, press the REC keys
for any two tracks. For a mono bounce (bouncing the mix to a single track) press the REC key for any one track.
5 Adjust the LEVEL and PAN knobs for the
bounce source tracks.
When making a stereo bounce, the lower numbered track is the left (L) side.
For a mono bounce, turn the PAN knobs
of the bounce source tracks all the way to
L. Use the MASTER LEVEL knob to adjust
the overall level.
6 After returning to the start of the song,
press the playback (Á) key while pressing and holding the record (–) key to start the bounce.

Confirming the result

Mute the bounce source tracks (see
“Muting tracks” on page 47), and play
BOUNCE
.
54 TASCAM DP-008
7 – Recorder Functions
the song from the beginning.
If you are not satisfied with the result
because, for example, the balance between instruments is poor, or the pan settings are wrong, use the undo function (see “Undoing the last operation (single undo)” on page 50).
If you are satisfied with the result, press
the REC MODE key to open the
MODE
screen and select then press the HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
After bouncing tracks, you can make new recordings over the other tracks.
TIP
If it is possible that you might need the original tracks at some later time, back-up the track data to a computer or copy the song before bouncing (see “Backing-up songs” on page 73 and “Connecting with a computer” on page 71).
MULTI TRACK
RECORDER
,

Locate and search functions

value will carry over automatically when it reaches the highest or lowest value in a field. For example, when turning the
DATA wheel to increase the value in the
seconds field, the number will change from 59 to 0 and the minutes value will increase by one. The time display blinks when using the DATA wheel. The blinking stops when the recorder moves to the displayed position.
3 Press the HOME key to move to a
different time division and turn the DATA wheel to change the value.
4 After setting the desired time value, press
the playback (Á) key to start playback from that position.

Return To Zero (RTZ) and Last Recording Position (LRP)

Use simple key operations to return to the top of a song or to the position where recording last started.

Direct locate function

The current recorder position is shown at the top of the display as “hours: minutes: seconds: frames” (there are 30 frames per second). You can move the current recorder position to a
specic time by inputting it here.
1 On the Home Screen, use the HOME key
to move the cursor (underline) between time divisions. You can edit the value at the cursor positions.
The seconds are selected in the following figure.
2 Turn the DATA wheel to change the value
above the cursor. When adjusting, the
Return To Zero (song beginning at 00:00:00:00)
Press the Ô key while pressing and
holding the stop (ª) key.
Last Recording Position (the position recording last started)
Press the key while pressing and
holding the stop (ª) key.
This function is useful when you want to record the same passage again.
TASCAM DP-008 55
7 – Recorder Functions
TIP
RTZ and LRP below the Ô and keys are abbreviations for Return To Zero and Last Recording Position, respectively.

Fast forward/rewind search

Press the Ô or key when stopped
or during playback to rewind or fast forward, respectively.
Each time you press one of these keys, the speed increases from 10x to 50x, 100x and 1000x.

Repeat playback

Use the repeat playback function to play
the same part again and again.
The repeated passage is time between the IN and OUT points.

Setting IN and OUT points

In addition to using them for setting the repeat playback passage, the IN and OUT points are also used for interval setting for track editing. Moreover, the OUT point is used as the end point of the master track when mastering.
TIP
You can also use the F3 and F4 keys to capture IN and OUT points when the Home Screen is open.
[SET IN]
[SET OUT]

Editing IN/OUT points

1 When the
(see the first screen figure in the previous section), press the F2 ( the edit screen.
I/O SETTING
screen is open
E DIT
) key to open
Capturing IN and OUT points
IN and OUT points can be captured when stopped, during playback or while recording.
1 Press the IN/OUT key to open the
SETTING
2 Press the F3 (
screen.
IN
) key or F4 (
desired position (regardless of whether the unit is stopped, playing or recording). “
SET IN !
” or “
SET O UT !
captured time appear.
I/O
OUT
) key at
” and the
2 Edit the values of IN and OUT points
using the following guidelines.
Use the
F3 (§) and F4 () keys to move
the cursor between the IN and OUT points.
Use the
between time fields.
Turn the
Ô/
DATA wheel to change the value
keys to move the cursor
at the cursor position.
3 When finished editing, press the HOME
key to return to the Home Screen.
NOTE
In the following cases, IN and OUT points cannot be captured or edited.
56 TASCAM DP-008
Repeat icon
7 – Recorder Functions
During repeat playback• In auto punch in/out mode • When the recorder mode is MASTER REC •
or MASTER PLAY

Using repeat playback

1 Set the starting (IN) and ending (OUT)
points for the time that you want to repeat, and then return to the Home Screen.
2 Press the RE PE AT key to start repeat
playback.
The repeat icon on the Home Screen appears.
Playback starts from the IN point. When the OUT point is reached, after the repeat interval elapses, playback starts again from the IN point. Playback continues to repeat between the IN and OUT points.
1 Press the MENU key to open the
screen.
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
PREFERENCE
open the
3 Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
the setting value for the item. Turn the D ATA wheel to set the value from 1.0 to 9.9 sec. in 0.1-sec. units.
The default setting is
4 When finished making settings, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
, and press the F4 (¥) key to
PREFERENCE
screen.
Repeat Int
1.0sec
MENU
.

Locating to the IN or OUT point

When the Home Screen is open, press the
F1 key while pressing and holding the STOP key to locate to the IN point.
Press the F2 key while pressing and
holding the STOP key to locate to the OUT point

Automatically punching in and out

3 Press the RE PE AT key again to stop
repeat playback.
The repeat icon on the Home Screen disappears.
The next section explains how to set the repeat interval that determines the amount of time until playback starts again after the OUT point is reached.

Setting the interval between repetitions

The interval can be set from 1.0 to 9.9
seconds.
When an IN point and an OUT point are
set, press the record (º) key and the IN/
OUT key at the same time to enter auto
punch in/out mode.
Auto punch in/out mode includes a rehearsal function. When using this function, monitoring between the IN and OUT points in the same way as when recording is possible without actually recording.

Rehearsal

1 Press the REC keys on tracks to use auto
punch in/out with them.
TASCAM DP-008 57
7 – Recorder Functions
2 After setting the IN and OUT points,
press the record (º) and IN/OUT keys at the same time to enter auto punch in/out mode.
3 Press the playback (Á) key.
Playback begins from two seconds before the IN point, and the sound monitored switches at the IN point from the track playback sound and the input sound to just the input sound. The REC indicator blinks when between the IN and OUT points.
When playback reaches the OUT point, the track playback sound and the input sound becomes the monitored sound again, and the REC indicator stops blinking and turns off. Playback automatically stops one second after the OUT point.
You can repeat rehearsal until you are satisfied.
OUT points.
2 One second after reaching the OUT
point, the recorder automatically stops, auto punch in/out mode is exited and the transport locates to two seconds before the IN point.
NOTE
Auto punch in/out mode cannot be • entered during repeat mode or if no REC key has been pushed.
Auto punch in/out can be undone. •

Using auto punch in/out to record

When you are done rehearsing, you can use auto punch in/out for recording.
1 While in auto punch in/out mode, press
and hold the record (º) key, and press the playback (Á) key.
In the same way as during rehearsal, playback begins from two seconds before the IN point. Recording occurs and the record indicator lights between the IN and
58 TASCAM DP-008
8 – Editing Tracks
Editing on a conventional tape recorder in the past required advanced techniques, but with this unit editing tracks is easy and accurate. Moreover, with a tape recorder, an editing error could not be undone, but this unit uses nondestructive editing, allowing you to edit without altering the original data. This means that the undo function can be used to correct an edit easily (see “Undoing the last operation (single undo)” on page 50).

Overview of track editing

This unit has the following track editing functions.
COPY/PASTE (copy and paste)
COPY/INSERT (copy and insert)
MOVE/PASTE (move and paste)
MOVE/INSERT (move and insert)
OPEN (insert a silent section)
CUT (remove part of a track)
SILENCE (erase part of a track)
CLONE TRACK (duplicate a track)
CLEAN OUT (erase a track)
OUT point
The OUT point is the ending point for the part of the track subject to track editing.
Press the IN/OUT key to open the
SETTING
The OUT point is saved as the time when the F4 (
screen.
OUT
) key is pressed.
I/O
TO point
The TO point is used as the PASTE destination point for COPY and MOVE operations.
The position where playback is currently stopped before opening the is set as the TO point.
The IN, OUT and TO points can also be changed on various editing screens.
TRACK EDIT
screen

Basic editing procedures

1 When the recorder is stopped and the
Home Screen is open, press the MENU key to open the
2 Use the DATA wheel to select the
E DIT
menu, and press the F4 (¥) key to
open it.
MENU
screen.
TRACK

Editing points

Among the track editing functions, COPY/ PASTE, COPY/INSERT, MOVE/PASTE and MOVE/INSERT use the IN and OUT points as editing points. They also use the current position when the editing operation is begun as the TO point. SILENCE, CUT, and OPEN use the IN and OUT points. These IN and OUT points are the same IN and OUT points used during repeat playback. See “Setting IN and OUT points” (on page 55) for instructions about how to do this.
IN point
The IN point is the starting point for the part of the track subject to track editing.
Press the IN/OUT key to open the
SETTING
The IN point is saved as the time when the
F3 (
screen.
IN
) key is pressed.
I/O
3 Use the DATA wheel to select the desired
track editing function, and press the F4 (¥) key to open that function’s screen.
TASCAM DP-008 59
4 Select the setting item value. If there are
multiple setting items, use the F3 (§) and
F4 () keys to select one. Turn the DATA
wheel to set an item’s value.
5 Press the F2 (
EXEC
) key to execute the
function.
Press the F1 (
the
TRACK EDIT
BACK
) key to return to
menu screen without
executing the function.

Explanation of items

SOURCE TRK
OPEN TRK
CUT TRK
SILENCE TRK
CLEAN OUT TRK
This is the track to be edited. The choices available depend on the editing function.
1
to 8: single tracks
1
/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8: track pairs
1
-8: all tracks
MST
: stereo master track
ALL
: all tracks or the stereo master track
[SOURCE TRK screen]
8 – Editing Tracks
[IN point editing screen]
[OUT point editing screen]
[TO point editing screen]
DESTINATION TRK
Select the track that you want to be the destination for a COPY, INSERT or MOVE operation. The choices depend on what you have already chosen for the track to be edited.
When a single track has been set as the
SOURCE TRK
, the
DESTINATION TRK
are 1 to 8 (single tracks).
When a track pair (for example, 1/2) has been set as the
SOURCE TRK
choices are 1/2, 3/4, 5/6 and 7/8 (track pairs).
When
1- 8
SOURCE TRK
is
(all tracks) has been set as the
, the
DESTINATION TRK
1- 8
(all tracks). In other words, this setting
cannot be changed in this case.
SOURCE TRK
, the
DESTINATION TRK
as the
choices
choice
[CLEAN OUT TRK screen]
IN/OUT/TO
These are the editing points. To change the IN, OUT or TO point, use the Ô/ keys to move the cursor and the DATA wheel to adjust the time.
60 TASCAM DP-008
OUT
IN TO
OUTIN TO
OUTIN TO
OUTIN TO
8 – Editing Tracks
COPY TIMES
Set the number of times that the copied section will be pasted. Set the number between 1 and
99
.

COPY/PASTE

This function copies the audio data from between the IN and OUT points on the COPY source track, and pastes it on the COPY destination track starting from the TO point. This operation does not change the COPY source track.
This operation overwrites recorded data on the COPY destination track. Therefore, the length of the COPY destination track is not changed.
You can make multiple copies in a single operation. In other words, you can overwrite the COPY destination track from the TO point with a designated number of repetitions of the COPY data.
The following parameters are used in this operation.
SOURCE TRK (
IN/OUT/TO
1
to 8, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 1-8)
DESTINATION TRK
COPY TIMES

COPY/INSERT

This function copies the audio data from between the IN and OUT points on the COPY source track, and inserts it on the COPY destination track starting from the TO point. This operation does not change the COPY source track.
This operation inserts recorded data into the COPY destination track. The recorded data on the COPY destination track after the TO point is offset by the amount of time used by the inserted audio data. Therefore, the COPY destination track becomes longer.
You can make multiple copies in a single operation. In other words, you can insert a designated number of repetitions of the COPY data into the COPY destination track from the TO point.
The following parameters are used in this operation.
SOURCE TRK (
IN/OUT/TO
DESTINATION TRK
COPY TIMES
1
to 8, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 1-8)
TASCAM DP-008 61

MOVE/PASTE

OUTIN TO
OUTIN TO
OUTIN TO
OUTIN TO
OUTIN
OUTIN
The audio data between the IN and OUT points on the MOVE source track is removed and pasted in the MOVE destination track starting from the TO point. This operation leaves a silence between the IN and OUT points on the MOVE source track.
This operation overwrites recorded data on the MOVE destination track. Therefore, the length of the MOVE destination track is not changed.
The following parameters are used in this operation.
SOURCE TRK (
IN/OUT/TO
DESTINATION TRK
1
to 8, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 1-8)
8 – Editing Tracks
The audio data between the IN and OUT points on the MOVE source track is removed and inserted in the MOVE destination track from the TO point. This operation leaves a silence between the IN and OUT points on the MOVE source track.
This operation inserts recorded data into the MOVE destination track starting from the TO point. Therefore, the MOVE destination track becomes longer.
The following parameters are used in this operation.
SOURCE TRK (
IN/OUT/TO
DESTINATION TRK

OPEN (insert silence)

1
to 8, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 1-8)

MOVE/INSERT

This function inserts silence between the IN and OUT points on the selected track.
This function splits the track at the IN point and shifts the recorded data after the IN point to after the OUT point. Therefore, the track becomes longer.
The following parameters are used in this operation.
62 TASCAM DP-008
OUTIN
IN
OUT
OUT
IN
IN
8 – Editing Tracks
OPEN TRK (
ALL
)
IN/OUT
1
to 8, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 1-8,

CUT (remove part)

This function cuts (deletes) the audio data between the IN and OUT points on the selected track, and shifts the remaining recording after the OUT point forward to the IN point. Therefore, the track becomes shorter.
The following parameters are used in this operation.
CUT TRK (
IN/OUT
1
to 8, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 1-8,
ALL
)
This function cuts (deletes) the audio data between the IN and OUT points on the selected track, leaving silence between the IN and OUT points, as though there had been no recording.
This operation does not change the length of the track.
The following parameters are used in this operation.
SILENCE TRK (
IN/OUT
TIP
Using this function, you can delete short noises, for example.
1
to 8, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 1-8)

CLONE track (track duplication)

SILENCE (part erase)

Use this function to duplicate a single track, a track pair or the master track on a different track or track pair. Each track is copied entirely, so the IN/OUT/TO points have no effect.
The following parameters are used in this operation.
SOURCE TRK (
1
to 8, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8,
MST
)
TASCAM DP-008 63
DESTINATION TRK
NOTE
If you choose the same track for both the SOURCE TRK and the DESTINATION TRK and press the F2 (EXEC) key, the “Same Track” message appears and the operation is not executed.

CLEAN out (track erase)

Use this function to completely erase the selected track. This erases the entire track, so the IN, OUT and TO points have no effect.
The following parameter is used in this operation.
CLEAN OUT TRK (
1-8
)
1
to 8, 1/2, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8,
8 – Editing Tracks
64 TASCAM DP-008
9 – Miscellaneous Functions

Metronome

This unit has a built-in metronome function that can be used when the recorder is operating. You can set it to function during both playback and recording or only during recording.
1 Press the METRONOME key to open the
METRONOME
2 Set the following items. Use the F3 (§)
and F4 () keys to select each item, and turn the DATA wheel to change the value.
MODE
Select
REC&PLAY
and playback) or during recording).
TEMPO
Set speed from 20 to (BPM).
The default setting is
BEAT
Set the frequency of the accent from 1 to 12 for different time signatures.
The default setting is 4.
LEVEL
Set the metronome volume from 0 to
screen.
OFF
(default, metronome OFF),
(functions both during recording
REC ONLY
(functions only
250
beats per minute
120
.
100
.
The default setting is
100
.
3 When finished making settings, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.
The metronome functions according to the
MODE
setting made in step 2 above.
The metronome signal is not recorded even if set to operate during recording.
NOTE
If you are using a mic to record and • monitoring through speakers connected to this unit, the metronome sound might be recorded.
When the metronome is operating, you • can adjust the LEVEL, but other items on the METRONOME screen cannot be changed.
TIP
You can use the metronome like a click • track to help keep time when recording the first tracks (rhythm guitar, bass, etc.) in a song.
If you want to use the metronome when • practicing, you can either turn each track’s LEVEL knob all the way down during playback or play a song that does not have any recordings.

Tuner

Use the built-in chromatic tuner to tune guitars and wind instruments.
In addition to the chromatic tuner mode, which allows you to tune an instrument while looking at the tuning meter, this unit’s tuner also has an oscillator mode that outputs a standard pitch.

Chromatic tuner mode

1 Connect a guitar or bass to INPUT A.
INPUT B cannot be used for tuning.
Use built-in MIC A when tuning wind
instruments, for example.
2 On the
INPUT SETTING
INPUT A input source to GUITAR/LINE
screen, set the
(see “Selecting the input source” on page
41).
TASCAM DP-008 65
9 – Miscellaneous Functions
To use the built-in mic, set the
SETTING
to
Internal MIC
INPUT
.
3 When the recorder is stopped, press
TUNER to open the
The value of the
TUNER
CA LIB
item (standard
screen.
frequency) is selected.
4 Turn the DATA wheel to set the standard
frequency of the A note between 435 and 445 Hz. The default setting is 440 Hz.
5 Play the instrument and begin tuning.
The pitch name closest to the string appears above the meters. Tune the string roughly until the sound name that you want appears. Then, fine tune the string until the rectangle at the middle of the meter darkens, showing that the string is in tune. If the pitch is too low, a bar extends to the left of the middle and if it is too high it extends to the right. The more out of tune, the longer the bar appears.
When the pitch played matches the note shown, the note name appears between the ¥˙ icons.
6 When finished tuning, press the HOME
key to return to the Home Screen.
NOTE
If you want to monitor the input sound, press the REC key of a track that has INPUT A assigned to it.

Oscillator mode

1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
TUNER key to open the
2 Press the F4 (
OSC.
oscillator screen.
The following settings can be made on
this screen.
CA LIB
Use this to adjust the standard frequency of A4. The setting range is The default setting is
NOTE
Use this to set the note output. The setting range is C3–B5. The default setting is A4.
LEVEL
Use this to set the output level. The setting range is 10 (minimum) – (maximum).
TUNER
screen.
) key to display the
435Hz–445Hz
440Hz
.
100
.
66 TASCAM DP-008
9 – Miscellaneous Functions
The default setting is
100
.
Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
parameters, and use the DATA wheel to set the parameter values.
Use the F2 (ON) key to turn the output
ON and OFF.
Use the F1 (
CHROM
) key to change to
chromatic tuner mode.
3 When you have finished tuning, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.

Turning the power off automatically

You can set the time until the power
automatically turns OFF after the last use
when using the batteries.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Select
PREFERENCE
key to open the
3 Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
the
Auto Off
DATA wheel to choose from these options:
OFF
(initial setting, Auto Off does not
occur),
setting value, and turn the
3min, 5min, 10min, 30 min
MENU
screen.
and press the F4 (¥)
PREFERENCE
screen.
MENU key to open the
MENU
screen.
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
PREFERENCE
open the
, and press the F4 (¥) key to
PREFERENCE
screen.
3 Use the F3 (§) and F4 () keys to select
Exec
next to the
Press F2 (
In itializ e
EXEC
) to open a confirmation
item.
screen.
4 Press F3 (
PREFERENCE
YES
) to initialize the unit. The
screen reopens when the
process finishes.
NOTE
Press the F4 (NO) key to cancel initialization.
5 When finished, press the HOME key to
return to the Home Screen.
4 When finished making settings, press the
HOME key to return to the Home Screen.

Restoring the initial preference settings

You can restore the settings to their initial values (the values that they had when the unit was shipped from the factory). This operation is called initialization.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
PREFERENCE
screen

Viewing information

You can view information about the current
song, the SD card and the rmware.
1 Press the MENU key to open the
screen.
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
INFORMATION
and press the F4 (¥) key.
MENU
TASCAM DP-008 67
The
INFORMATION
appears.
The
INFORMATION
including this one.
9 – Miscellaneous Functions
screen
SONG
page
screen has three pages
3 Use the F3 (
PREV
) and F4 (
NEXT
) keys to
change the page. The pages contain the following information.
SONG (1/3)
page: name and partition of currently loaded song, remaining recording time on partition
CARD (2/3)
page: MTR partitions and
capacities, FAT partition capacity
F/W (3/3)
page: system rmware version
68 TASCAM DP-008
MTR partition size
FAT partition size
Total card size
10 – SD Card Management

Overview of partitions

As described in “Partitions and songs” (page
47), SD cards formatted by this unit are divided into partitions. MTR partitions are
for recording data while the FAT partition
can be accessed with a personal computer. High-capacity cards can have multiple MTR partitions. In this case, you can use the MTR partitions for different songs, for example, or copy songs to a different MTR partitions
to save their information. The FAT partition is FAT32 format and can be accessed by a
computer connected to this unit by USB. This
FAT partition is used to save songs and export
stereo master tracks to computers, as well as
to allow this unit to import audio les into songs, for example. For this reason, two steps
are necessary to copy from a MTR partition and a computer. You can also format an entire card or individual partition as well as change the divisions between partitions (repartition) as necessary.
CAUTION
Formatting and repartition operations cannot be undone!
NOTE
The FAT (File Allocation Table) format • is a disk format that can be read by a computer.
SD and SDHC card that are at least 512MB • in size can be used.

Formatting cards and setting partition sizes

This operation formats the entire card and allows you set MTR partition sizes for high­capacity cards.
CAUTION
This operation erases all the data on the card and cannot be undone! Confirm that you will not lose important data before formatting a card.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press
MENU to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the
MENU
screen.
CARD
CARD
, and
menu screen.
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select
FORMAT
and press the F4 (¥) key.
The
FORMAT
screen opens.
The following table shows the FAT and MTR
partition sizes for different SD card capacities.
The FAT partition size is set automatically
according to card capacity. The size of the MTR partition on cards 4 GB or smaller is also
xed, but cards that are 8 GB or larger have
multiple MTR partitions and their sizes can be chosen. However, the last MTR partition
is set to ll the remaining space on the card
automatically, so its size cannot be chosen.
Card capacity and partition size
Card
capacity
32 GB 4 GB 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB or
16 GB 4 GB 2 GB, 4 GB or 8 GB
8 GB 2 GB 2 GB or 4 GB
4 GB 2 GB 2 GB fixed
2 GB 1 GB 1 GB fixed
1 GB 512 MB 512MB fixed
FAT
partition
size
MTR partition size
16 GB
TASCAM DP-008 69
10 – SD Card Management
Card
capacity
512 MB 256 MB 256MB fixed
FAT
partition
size
MTR partition size
4 If the card capacity is 8 GB or more,
turn the DATA wheel to select the MTR partition size, and press the F2 (
EXEC
)
key.
A message war ning that all songs will be erased appears.
5 Press the F3 (
YES
) key to format the card.
For example, if you format a 16 GB card
with 4GB MTR partitions, 12 GB are left for MTR partitions after 4 GB is used for the
FAT partition. Three partitions are created.
Two are 4 GB and the last one is 3 GB. (Since 1GB is actually 1024 MB, the total size of the partitions does not always match the card size.)
When formatting finishes the
CARD
menu
screen reopens.
After formatting, one song is automatically
created in each MTR partition.
To cancel formatting, press the
F4 (NO) key.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Use the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the
MENU
screen.
CARD
, and
CARD
menu screen.
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select
REFORMAT
Press the F4 (¥) key to open the
REFORMAT
screen.
A list of the MTR partitions and their sizes (not open capacities) appear.
A * marks the active partition.
4 Turn the DATA wheel to select the
partition that you want to reformat and press the F2 (
EXEC
) key.
A pop-up message warning that all data on the partition will be erased appears.
.

Reformatting MTR partitions

You can reformat an MTR partition if you want. Use this function when you just want to
format a specic partition without changing
its size.
CAUTION
You cannot undo this operation! All the data on the selected partition will be erased, so be certain that you will not lose anything important when reformatting.
5 Press the F3 (
YES
) key to reformat the
partition.
When reformatting finishes the
CARD
reopens.
After reformatting, one song is automati-
cally created in the MTR partition.
To cancel reformatting, press the
F4 (NO)
key.
menu
70 TASCAM DP-008
10 – SD Card Management

Reformatting the FAT partition

You can also reformat just the FAT partition. The size of the FAT partition cannot be
changed.
CAUTION
You cannot undo this operation! All data on the FAT partition will be erased, so be certain that you will not lose anything important when reformatting.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the menu screen.
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select
REFORMAT
, and press the F4 (¥) key.
A pop-up message warning that all data on
the FAT partition will be erased appears.
MENU
screen.
CARD
CARD
FAT
, and

Initializing SD cards

If you want to use an SD card that was used with this unit, we recommend that you initialize it.
When you initialize an SD card, the entire card
is formatted as FAT32.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
press the F4 (¥) key to open the CARD menu screen.
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select the
INITIALIZ E
item and press the F4 (¥)
key.
A pop-up message warning that all data on the card will be erased appears.
MENU
screen.
CARD
, and
SD
4 Press the F3 (
YES
) key to reformat the
FAT partition.
When reformatting finishes the
screen reopens.
To cancel reformatting, press the
ke y.
CARD
F4 (NO)
menu
4 Press the F3 (
YES
) key to initialize the
entire card and format it as FAT32.
To cancel initialization, press the
F4 (NO)
ke y.
NOTE
After initializing an SD card, it is necessary to format it if you want to use it with the DP-008 again. (See “Formatting SD cards” on page 33).
TASCAM DP-008 71
11 – Exchanging Data with a Computer
You can backup song data on this unit to a computer and restore backed-up song data
later. Moreover, you can export track les and master les from a song to a computer and import audio les on the computer to the unit.
Backed-up data can be restored to a different DP-008 unit than the one that created it. In
other words, les can be freely exchanged
between DP-008 units, making it easy to add additional recordings or mix existing recordings in a different location.
NOTE
The MTR partitions where song files are • stored cannot be directly accessed from a computer.
In this chapter, “computer” refers to • a Windows or Macintosh personal computer connected to this unit (see “Suppor ted operating systems” below).
CAUTION
If you want to remove an SD card from this unit and back-up its data on a computer using a card reader, always turn off the unit’s power before removing the card.
The following types of data can be transferred from this unit to a computer.

Supported operating systems

You can connect this unit to computers with the following operating systems.
Windows
Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7
Mac OS X
Mac OS X 10.2 or later
When this unit is connected to a computer, the computer recognizes it as a removable disk. There is no need for a special driver.
NOTE
Data transfer between this unit and a computer occurs at USB 2.0 speed (maximum). Data can still be transferred if the computer connection is USB1.1, but it will be slower.
In addition, to assure USB 2.0 speed, use the included cable or a cable that meets USB 2.0 standards.

Connecting with a computer

Entire songs
You can transfer the data for an entire song from the unit’s BACKUP directory on the
FAT partition to a computer. This operation
is called “backup.” In addition, data backed­up on a computer can be transferred to the
BACKUP directory on the FAT partition, and
then restored as song data. This operation is called “restore.”
WAV format tracks
One or more tracks can be converted to WAV
les and exported to a computer, and WAV les on a computer can be imported to this unit. These WAV les are stored on the WAVE directory of this unit’s FAT partition.
Stereo master track
A stereo master track made on this unit can be
transferred to a computer as a stereo WAV le from the WAVE directory on the FAT partition.
Only export is possible.
To use the FAT partition of this unit, the unit
must be connected to a computer by USB. When connected by USB, this unit’s record, playback and other recorder operations cannot be used.
To connect with a computer, connect the USB port on the right side panel of the unit with a USB port on the computer using the included USB cable. It does not matter whether you turn the unit’s power ON before or after the USB connection is made.
If the USB connection is made while the unit’s power is ON, the currently loaded song is saved before the USB connection becomes effective. When connected, the following screen appears on the display.
72 TASCAM DP-008
11 – Exchanging Data with a Computer
CAUTION
When transferring data, do not disconnect the unit or remove the USB cable. Doing so could cause data on the computer or this unit to be damaged.
If you turn the unit’s power ON after making the USB connection, the screen above appears right away.
The unit appears as an external drive named “DP-008” on the computer’s display.
The FAT partition of the TASCAM DP-008
has three directories (folders): BACKUP, WAVE and UTILITY.
CAUTION
This unit can receive power from • batteries or an AC adaptor. It cannot be powered by a USB connection.
Do not change the names of three direc-• tories (folder) in “DP- 008”.
The total number of files and folders that • this unit can recognize on a FAT partition is 100. If the number exceeds 100, use a computer or other device to move them.
Do not make a USB connection when the • remaining battery level is low.
If the power turns OFF during data • transfer, all the data will be lost. This lost data cannot be restored.
NOTE
Confirm that you have copied all the files • that you want to transfer to a computer to the FAT partition before connecting the unit and the computer by USB.
The UTILITY directory is used to, for • example, update the system software used by the unit. Please see the instruc­tions included with the software update for how to update.

Disconnecting

Use the following procedures to disconnect the USB connection correctly.
NOTE
When disconnecting from a computer, the procedure on the computer might be called “eject” or “unmount.”
Disconnecting from Windows XP/ Windows Vista/Windows 7
Follow the procedures below to disconnect
computers that use Windows XP, Windows Vista, or Windows 7 operating systems.
A PC card icon and arrow appear in the taskbar (usually at the bottom right of the screen).
1 Left-click on this icon to open a pop-up
bar. Click this pop-up bar to disconnect this unit from the computer.
2 After a message appears on the computer
screen saying that this unit can be dis­connected, remove the USB cable.
This unit restarts and the Home Screen appears on the display.
If a message appears on the computer
screen saying that this unit cannot be disconnected safely, do not disconnect the USB cable. Close all the computer programs and windows that are accessing files on this unit, and then try the operation again.
Disconnecting from Macintosh systems
1 Drag the “DP-008” icon that repre-
sents this unit to the Trash, or type Command-E to eject the DP-008.
TIP
Depending on the OS version or OS settings you might also be able to eject the “DP-008” icon by clicking an eject button next to it in the Finder window or by using a control key.
TASCAM DP-008 73
11 – Exchanging Data with a Computer
2 After the icon disappears from the
desktop, remove the USB cable.
This unit restarts and the Home Screen
appears on the display.

Song backup and restoration

Song backup saves not only audio tracks, but also backs up editing data and other song data. Song restoration is the reverse of this process. In short, song data is transferred from the
computer to the FAT partition of the unit and
then used to restore the song.

Backing-up songs

Before starting a backup, check that the MTR partition that has the song that you want to backup is selected (see “Selecting the active partition” on page 36).
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2. Turn the DATA wheel to select
BACKUP
. Press the F4 (¥) key to open the
DATA BACKUP
menu.
3 Use the DATA wheel to select
BACKUP
, and press the F4 (¥) key to open
a song list.
4 Turn the DATA wheel to select the song
that you want to backup, and press the
F4 (
NEXT
) key.
A screen appears that allows you to set the
MENU
screen.
DATA
SONG
file name for the song being backed up.
5 Use the
and the F3 (
Ô/
keys, the DATA wheel
INS
) and F4 (
DEL
) keys, to name the song (maximum of 8 charac­ters) (see “Editing names” on page 37).
6 After setting the name, press the F2
(
EXEC
) key.
A backup copy of the song on the active
partition is made on the FAT partition
(“.001” is added as an extension).
Writing File
” and an icon appear on the
display.
When the backup is complete, the
BACKUP
menu reopens.
NOTE
If the open space necessary to back-up a songs is not available in the FAT partition, an error message appears. In this case, connect this unit and a computer, and erase unnecessary files on the partition using the computer to make enough open space.
DATA
7 Connect this unit to a computer using
the USB cable (see Connecting with a computer on page 71).
8 Use the computer to copy backup files
from the BACKUP directory on the FAT partition of the unit to the computer.
9 After copying finishes, disconnect the
unit from the computer using the proper procedures and then remove the USB cable (see “Disconnecting” on page 72).
74 TASCAM DP-008
11 – Exchanging Data with a Computer
CAUTION
If you use a computer to change the • name of a song file that has been backed up, use no more than eight ordinary single-byte English letters and numbers.
Do not change the file extension.•

Restoring songs

Basically, restoring is the reverse of backing
up. In short, transfer a backup le on a
computer to this unit to restore a song.
1 Connect this unit to a computer using
the USB cable (see Connecting with a computer on page 71).
2 Use the computer to copy backup files
from the computer to the BACKUP directory on the FAT partition of the unit.
3. When copying finishes, disconnect the unit from the computer using the proper procedures and then remove the USB cable (see “Disconnecting” on page 72).
4 After this unit restarts automatically,
press MENU to open the
5 Turn the DATA wheel to select
BACKUP
and press the F4 (¥) key.
DATA BACKUP
screen appears.
6 Turn the DATA wheel to select
RESTORE
, and press the F4 (¥) key.
MENU
screen.
DATA
SONG
NOTE
An error message appears if there are no files on the FAT partition.
7 Turn the DATA wheel to select the file
that you want to restore, and press the F2
(
EXEC
) key.
The actual song name and a confirmation message (“
NOTE
If the file name is short, spaces appear after the file name on the FAT partition, but those spaces are not included in the actual file name.
8 Press the F3 (
Are y ou su re
YES
) key.
?”) appear.
After the currently loaded song is saved, the song selected in step 6 is restored and loaded.
NOTE
If the open space on the card is insufficient, an error message appears.
9 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
The screen shows the backup files on the
FAT partition.

Track import and export

You can import and export individual tracks
between a computer and this unit’s FAT partition. Files that can be imported/exported as tracks must be WAV les (with the “.WAV”
extension). You can import both mono and
stereo les and export mono les. If you
want to import audio into this unit that is of a different format, you must convert it to a
16-bit, 44.1-kHz mono/stereo WAV le rst.
TASCAM DP-008 75
11 – Exchanging Data with a Computer

Importing tracks

Before importing a track, rst select the
partition with the song that you want to import it into as the active partition. Then, load the song that you want to import tracks into.
1 Connect this unit to a computer using
the USB cable (see Connecting with a computer on page 71).
2 Use the computer to copy WAV files on
its drive to the WAVE directory in this unit’s FAT partition.
3 Disconnect the unit from the computer
using the proper procedures and then remove the USB cable (see “Disconnecting” on page 72).
4 After this unit restarts automatically,
press the MENU key to open the screen.
5 Turn the DATA wheel to select
EXPORT
, and press the F4 (¥) key to open
the
IMPORT/EXPORT
menu.
6 Turn the DATA wheel to select
TRACK
, and press the F4 (¥) key.
WAV files on the FAT partition are shown.
NOTE
This unit cannot use WAV files that are a • sampling frequency other than 44.1 kHz. Such files are not displayed even if they have been imported.
If no files that can be imported are on the FAT partition, a pop-up saying “Import File Not Found” appears.
MENU
IMPORT/
IMPORT
If the file name is short, spaces appear • after the file name on the FAT partition, but those spaces are not included in the actual file name.
7 Turn the DATA wheel to select the WAV
file that you want to import, and press the F2 (
NEXT
) key.
The amount of open space on the
currently active partition and the size of the selected WAV file appear on the display.
8 Turn the DATA wheel to select the track
that you want to import the WAV file to, and press the F4 (
EXEC
) key.
Importing begins.
NOTE
If there is not enough open space or the • file format is wrong, an error message appears.
The track that is the destination for the • import must be empty.
This unit reads the file from the FAT partition, and imports it to the desig­nated track. The beginning of the file is set at the start of the song (00:00:00:00).
In the same way as other recording tracks, you can edit the track that has received the imported file (see “8-Editing tracks” on page 58).
To import a stereo WAV file, an empty • track pair is necessary.
9 After importing completes, press HOME
to return to the Home Screen.
76 TASCAM DP-008
11 – Exchanging Data with a Computer

Exporting tracks

You can export tracks as 16-bit, 44.1-kHz
mono WAV les.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
EXPORT
, and press the F4 (¥) key to open
the
IMPORT/EXPORT
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select the
TRACK
item, and press the F4 (¥) key.
Song tracks that have audio recordings are displayed in a list. The file name makes the source track number clear.
MENU
menu.
screen.
IMPORT/
EXPORT
By checking multiple checkboxes, you
can export more than one track at once. Select a track and press the F4 ()
key again to remove the check from its checkbox.
5 When you finish putting checks next to
the tracks that you want to export, press the F2 (
NEXT
) key.
The amount or open space on the FAT
partition (which is the destination for the exported tracks) and the total number of tracks to be exported is shown.
TIP
Press F3 (NAME) to change the file name.
NOTE
Song tracks that do have audio recordings are not displayed in the file list.
4 Turn the DATA wheel, to select a track for
export, and press the F4 () key to put a check in the checkbox.
6 Press the F4 (
EXEC
) key. The selected
track is exported to the FAT partition with the edited file name with the “.WAV” extension added as the track file name. If you have previously exported a track file with the same name, a confir­mation message (“
you s ure?
Duplicate name
”) appears. Press the F3 (
key to overwrite the older track.
7 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
8 Connect this unit to a computer (see
Connecting with a computer on page
71).
YES
Are
)
TASCAM DP-008 77
11 – Exchanging Data with a Computer
9 Use the computer to copy track files
from the WAVE directory on the FAT partition to the computer.
10 After exporting track files to the
computer, disconnect the unit from the computer using the proper procedures and then remove the USB cable (see “Disconnecting” on page 72).

Exporting a stereo master track

You can export a stereo master track that you have made on the unit (see “Mastering” on page 48) to a computer. When you create a new stereo master track for a song, the existing stereo master track is overwritten, so if you want to keep multiple different stereo master tracks, you might want to save them to a computer.
Before starting the following export procedures, make sure that the song that you want to export a stereo master track for is currently loaded and that you have already created a stereo master track for it.
1 When the recorder is stopped, press the
MENU key to open the
2 Turn the DATA wheel to select
EXPORT
, and press the F4 (¥) key to open
the
IMPORT/EXPORT
3 Turn the DATA wheel to select
MASTER
, and press the F4 (¥) key.
The default file name is displayed and can be edited.
MENU
menu.
screen.
IMPORT/
EXPORT
NOTE
If there is no stereo master track, an error message appears.
4 Use the
Ô/
keys, the DATA wheel and the F3 and F4 keys to edit the name of the stereo master file being exported (See “Editing names” on page 37).
5 After setting the name, press the F2
(
EXEC
) key.
A stereo master track file is exported as a 16-bit, 44.1-kHz, stereo WAV file to
the FAT partition. The file name of the
exported file is the name set in step 3 above plus the “.WAV” extension.
If you have previously exported a stereo master track with the same name, a confirmation message (
- Are y ou su re?
Press the F3 (
YES
Duplicate name
) appears.
) key to overwrite the
older track.
NOTE
To cancel expor ting, press the F1 (BACK) key.
6 Press the HOME key to return to the
Home Screen.
7 Connect this unit to a computer using
the USB cable (see Connecting with a computer on page 71).
8 Use the computer to copy the stereo
master file from the WAVE directory on the FAT partition of the unit to the computer.
9 After copying finishes, disconnect the
unit from the computer using the proper procedures and then remove the USB cable (see “Disconnecting” on page 72).
78 TASCAM DP-008
12 – Troubleshooting
When working with any new piece of
equipment like the unit, it’s sometimes difcult
to work out why something isn’t happening the way you expect. The main thing is to take your time—after all, you’re not paying hourly studio rates! Stop and think. Ask yourself questions, like the ones below, and you can
usually nd the answer.
Also, see the “Messages” section on page 79 for the meaning of messages that may pop up on the display. Consult this table when a message appears when an operation cannot be completed by the unit.
Why can’t I hear any sound when I play back?
Are the
LEVEL knobs of the tracks set to
high enough?
Is the
MASTER LEVEL knob set to high
enough?
Have you connected the
OUT jack to your monitoring system prop-
erly, and is your monitoring system set up correctly?
Is the
VOLUME control set to high enough?
PHONES or LINE
Why does the sound I'm recording sound distorted?
Are the
TRIM knobs of the INPUT A or
INPUT B on the top panel of the unit set too
high? Is the input source too loud?
Isn’t the monitor system distorted as the monitor level is too high?
up or exported to the FAT partition? (Files
on the MTR partition cannot directly be read.)
When using the AC adaptor, noise occurs if I connect a passive guitar or bass directly.
Connecting another device to the unit’s line
output (LINE OUT) jacks might reduce the noise.
This might be caused by interference noise
from another device. If there is a power amplifier or other device that uses a large transformer, a fluorescent light or some­thing similar nearby, you might be able to reduce the noise by changing the distance and orientation of this unit in relation to such equipment.
Why can’t I record?
You must have at least one track armed
(REC indicator f lashing) before you start recording by pressing the PL AY (¥) key while pressing the RECORD (–) key.
Are input channels assigned to tracks (see “Assigning input” on page 43)?
Why can’t my computer “see” the unit files?
Is the unit connected to the computer via
the USB terminal (see “Connecting with a computer” on page 71)?
Before making the USB connection, songs,
tracks, or stereo master tracks are backed
TASCAM DP-008 79
13 – Messages
The following popup messages alert you to conditions that may arise while you are using the unit. Consult this table if you see something you do not understand.
Messages Meaning and remedy
Empty Export Track
File Not Foun d
I/O Too Short
Impo rt File Not Fou nd
Impo rt File Too La rge
In Bou nce M ode
In Master Mode
In Rep eat Mode
In Pun ch Mo de
Mast er Track Not Found
Master Track Too Large
No Ar med Track
No Disk Spa ce
No Master Trk
No Song
No Un do Histor y
Not Stopped
Now Recording
You are trying to export a track ("Track import and export" on page 74) which does not have anythng recorded on it. Pick another tarck to eport.
You are trying to restore a song when there are no backed-up songs on the FAT partition ("Song backup and restoration" on page 73).
You are trying to enter repeat mode, but the time between the IN and OUT points is too short. Make the time longer.
You are trying to import a WAV file from the FAT partition when there are no WAV files there ("Importing tracks" on page 75). Connect the unit to a PC and transfer some files to the FAT partition for import.
You are trying to import a WAV file from the FAT partition that is too large for the remaining space on the partition. Free up some space on the (active) partion and try again.
You tried to perform an action that cannot be done while in Bounce mode.
You tried to perform an action that cannot be done while in Master mode.
You tried to perform an action that cannot be done while in Repeat mode.
You tried to use a function that is prohibited during punch in/out mode.
You have tried to export a stereo master track ("Exporting a stereo master track" on page 77) when the song does not have one. Master the song and then export the stereo master track.
You tried to export a stereo master track which was too large for the remaining space on the FAT partition ("Exporting a stereo master track" on page 77). Connect the unit to a computer and free up some space on the FAT partition or reformat the FAT partition.
You tried to enter auto punch in/out mode when no tracks were in record standby. (See “Automatically punching in and out” on page 56.) Put a track into recording standby before enabling auto punch in/out mode
You tried to create a song, but there is not enough space on the partition to create a song. Erase an unwanted song (see “Erasing songs” on page XX), format the card (see “Formatting cards and setting partition sizes” on page XX) or take other steps to make space available on a card.
You have tried to use a non-existent master track as the source in a track cloning operation ("CLONE track (track duplication)" on page 62). Select another source or master the song and try again.
You are trying to load a song from a partition that has no songs on it ("Loading a saved song" on page 37). Change partitions ("Selecting the active partition" on page 36).
There are no actions to be undone. See "Undoing operations" on page
49.
The recorder is moving (not stopped, but playing back, recording, etc.) and you have pressed a key such as the UN/REDO key which cannot be used until you press STOP.
You are trying to perform an action which cannot be done while recording.
80 TASCAM DP-008
13 – Messages
Messages Meaning and remedy
Sam e Track
Song Protected
Too Many songs
Tra c k F ull
Trk Too Sh ort
No SD C ard
I
nvalid Card
Protected Card
Ca rd Full
Trk Edit Fail
Battery Empty
Battery Low
SD Size Er ror
Work Memory Full
SD No t Foun d
SD Re ad Bu sy
SD Write Bu sy
I
/F Error
FileErr
Audio Rst Fail
SaveParam Fail
Mount Error
SD-Card Error!
FX Rx Failed
FX Busy
You cannot clone a track to itself. ("CLONE track (track duplication)" on page 62.)
The song is protected ("Protecting songs" on page 40) and you are trying to change it (record or edit, etc.). Unprotect the song.
You have 250 songs on one partition. You must delete some before you can create another song.
This message appears if you try to import a file when all tracks already have recordings. (See “Importing tracks” on page 75.)
You are trying to master with the OUT point at the zero position ("Mixdown" on page 45 and "Mastering" on page 48). Set the OUT point ("Setting IN and OUT points" on page 55) and try again.
Insert an SD card after turning off the unit.
Insert another SD card after turning off the unit, or format the card by MENU ®
To record or edit, turn off the unit and un-protect the SD card.
The SD card is full during recording.
Save the song and turn the unit off and then on, and perform track edit again.
Replace the batteries with new ones or use a PS-P520 AC adaptor (sold separately).
Replace the batteries with new ones or use a PS-P520 AC adaptor (sold separately).
Use an SD card larger than 512 MB.
Even if the card has enough remaining memory space, this error may occur when you record a long song or edit a lot. You may be able to continue the work if you clear the history ("Erasing the operation history" on page 51.) which may increase the open work memory. You may also be able to continue work by turning the unit off and then on again,which may increas the open work memory.
If any of these errors occur, turn the the unit power OFF and restart it. If these error message continue to appear, please contact a TEAC Repair Center.
CARD
®
FORMAT
.
TASCAM DP-008 81
14 – Specifications and Block Diagram

Audio input/output ratings

INPUT A jack
XLR type (Balanced)
Connector: XLR-3-31
(1: GND, 2: HOT, 3: COLD)
Input impedance: 2.4 kΩ
Standard input level: –8 dBu
Maximum input level: +8 dBu
1/4” phone jack type (Unbalanced)
Connector: 6.3 mm (1/4”) phone jack
Input impedance:
10 kΩ (when INPUT A selector switch is set to MIC/LINE) 1 MΩ (when INPUT A selector switch is set to GUI TAR)
Standard input level: –10 dBV
Maximum input level: +6 dBV
Headroom: 16 dB
INPUT B jack
XLR type (Balanced)
Connector: XLR-3-31
(1: GND, 2: HOT, 3: COLD)
Input impedance: 2.4 kΩ
Standard input level: –8 dBu
Maximum input level: +8 dBu
1/4” phone jack type (Unbalanced)
Connector: 6.3 mm (1/4”) phone jack
Input impedance: 10 kΩ or more
Standard input level: –10 dBV
Maximum input level: +6 dBV
Headroom: 16 dB
LINE OUT jack
Connector: RCA pin jack
Standard output level: –10 dBV
Maximum output level: +6 dBV
PHONES jack
Connector: 3.5 mm stereo mini jack
Maximum output level: 20 mW + 20 mW or
more (THD + N 1 % or less, 32Ω load)

Audio performance

Frequency response
INPUT (MIC/LINE) LINE OUT: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Distortion
INPUT (MIC/LINE) LINE OUT: 0.05% or less
S/N ratio
INPUT (MIC/LINE) LINE OUT: 81 dB or more

General

Recording media
SD card (512 MB - 2 GB) or SDHC card (4 GB - 32 GB)
File system
MTR partition: TASCAM original
FAT partition: FAT32
Built-in mic
Omni directional, Stereo
Power supply
Four AA batteries or Optional AC adaptor
(PS-P520)
Battery life
About 5.5 hours (recording, phantom power off)
About 6 hours (playback)
(When measured with alkaline batteries. Battery life may vary depending on the operating conditions)
Operating temperature range
5 - 35°C/41 - 95°F
Power consumption
2.4 W
82 TASCAM DP-008
14 – Specifications and Block Diagram
Foot switch polarity
Dimensions (WHD)
221 x 36 x 126.5 mm/
8.70 x 1.42 x 4.98 in
(w/o projections)
Weight
610 g/19.69 oz (w/o batteries)

Optional accessories

AC adaptor
PS-P520

Computer requirements

Windows
Pentium 300 MHz or faster
128 MB or more memory
USB port (USB 2.0 recommended)
Macintosh
Power PC, iMac, G3, G4 266 MHz or faster
64 MB or more memory
USB port (USB 2.0 recommended)
Recommended USB host controller
Intel chipset
Supported OS
Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7
Macintosh Mac OS X 10.2 or later

Backup memory

The following settings are backed up even when the unit power is turned off.
INPUT SETTING item (except Input
EQ)
PREFERENCE item
Contrast
Backlight
Auto off
TASCAM DP-008 83
221 mm
36 mm
126.5 mm
14 – Specifications and Block Diagram

Dimensions

Block diagram

84 TASCAM DP-008
15 – Commonly-used Functions
This section is a brief guide to some operations on the DP-008 which may not be immediately obvious from looking at the panel controls.
Key sequences are written like this:
STOP
+ Ô means “press and hold the STOP
key, select the
FORMAT
The list of popup messages and their mean-
action.
CARD
menu, and then the
ing (“Messages” on page 79) may also be useful to you.
key and press Ô.”
Menu items are written like this:
CARD
®
FORMAT
, meaning “press the MENU
How to Keys, etc. TO press Description
Format the FAT partition
Set the IN and OUT points "IN/OUT, F3, F4" See "Setting IN and OUT points"
Edit the IN and OUT points "IN/OUT, F2" See "Setting IN and OUT points"
Use the USB connection Connect the unit and a PC with the USB
Remove the USB connection Disconnect the unit from a PC See "Disconnecting" on page
Import a WAV file to a track
Choose another partition as the active partition
Tune a guitar or wind instrument
Find out the current partition
Make all of an SD card usable by a PC
Format an SD card
Create a new song
Create a stereo master track
Export a stereo master track to a PC
Redo one operation UNDO/REDO See "Undoing operations" on
Undo one operation UNDO/REDO See "Undoing operations" on
Name a song
MENU ®
MENU ®
cable.
MENU ®
IMPORT TRACK
MENU ®
TUNER
MENU ®
MENU ®
MENU ®
MENU ®
REC MODE ® MENU ®
EXPORT MASTER
MENU ®
CARD
IMPORT/EXPORT
CARD
INFORMATION
CARD
CARD
SONG
IMPORT/EXPORT
SONG
®
FAT REFORMAT
®
® PARTITION
®
SD INITIA LIZE
®
FORMAT
®
CREATE
MASTER REC
®
®
NAME EDIT
See "Reformatting the FAT partition" on page 70.
on page 55.
on page 55.
See "Connecting with a computer" on page 71.
72.
See "Importing tracks" on page
75.
See "Selecting the active partition" on page 36.
See "Tuner" on page 64.
See "Viewing information" on page 66.
See "Initializing SD cards" on page 70.
See "Formatting cards and setting partition sizes" on page
68.
See "Creating a new song" on page 13.
See "Mastering" on page 48.
See "Exporting a stereo master track" on page 77.
page 49.
page 49.
See "Editing names" on page
37.
TASCAM DP-008 85
15 – Commonly-used Functions
How to Keys, etc. TO press Description
Un-protect a song
Display the song name
Copy a song
Delete a song
Back up a song to a PC
Protect a song
Save a song
Load a song
Delete the whole of a track
Insert silence at a point in a
MENU ®
MENU ®
MENU ®
MENU ®
MENU ®
BACKUP
MENU ®
MENU ®
MENU ®
MENU ®
OUT
MENU ®
SONG
®
PROTECT
INFORMATION
SONG ® COPY
SONG
®
ERASE
DATA BACKUP
SONG
®
PROTECT
SONG
®
SAVE
SONG
®
LOAD
TRACK EDIT
TRACK EDIT
®
®
®
CLEAN
OPEN
SONG
track
Cut and close up part a track
Remove a section of a track
MENU ®
MENU ®
TRACK EDIT
TRACK EDIT
®
®
CUT
SILENCE
and replace it with silence
Make an exact copy of (clone) a track
Export a track's contents to PC
Bounce tracks
Format one partition
Restore a song from a PC
Ping-pong (bounce) to ohter
MENU ®
TRACK
MENU ®
EXPORT TRACK
TRACK EDIT
IMPORT/EXPORT
REC MODE ®
MENU ®
MENU ®
RESTORE
CARD
DATA BACKUP
REC MODE ®
BOUNCE
®
REFORMAT
BOUNCE
®
®
CLONE
®
SONG
tracks
Metronome settings
Use the metronome
Find out how much time is
METRONOME
METRONOME
MENU ®
INFORMATION
left for recording
Playback a created stereo
REC MODE ®
MASTER PLAY
master track
Use the built-in mic INPUT SETTING See "Selecting the input source"
See "Protecting songs" on page
40.
See "Viewing information" on page 66.
See "Copying songs" on page
38.
See "Erasing songs" on page
39.
See "Backing-up songs" on page 73.
See "Protecting songs" on page
40.
See "Saving a song" on page
38.
See "Loading a saved song" on page 37.
See "CLEAN OUT (track erase)" on page 63.
See "OPEN (insert silence)" on page 61.
See "CUT (remove part)" on page 62.
See "SILENCE (part erase)" on page 62.
See "CLONE track (track duplicatin)" on page 62.
See "Exporting tracks" on page
76.
See "Bouncing tracks" on page
53.
See "Reformatting MTR partitions" on page 69.
See "Restoring songs" on page
74.
See "Bouncing tracks" on page
53.
See "Metronome" on page 64.
See "Metronome" on page 64.
See "Viewing song information" on page 38.
See "Mastering" on page 48.
on page 41.
86 TASCAM DP-008
15 – Commonly-used Functions
How to Keys, etc. TO press Description
Record a guitar INPUT SETTING See "Selecting the input source"
Change the track to which INPUT A/B is assigned
Change the interval time during repeat
Use the auto off function
Change the screen contrast
Add reverb REVERB See "Reverb" on page 46.
Use EQ on an input signal
Use EQ on a track EQ See "Track EQ (equolizer)" on
Use phantom power PHANTOM See "Phantom power" on page
Mute the playback sound of the track
ASSIGN See "Assigning inputs" on page
MENU ®
MENU ®
MENU ®
INPUT SETTING
REVERB
PREFERENCE
PREFERENCE
PREFERENCE
®
F2
+
EQ See "Muting tracks" on page
on page 41.
43.
See "Setting the interval between repetitions" on page
56.
See "Turning the power off automatically" on page 66.
See "Adjusting the contrast" on page 34.
See "Using input EQ" on page
43.
page 45.
41.
47.
TASCAM DP-008 87
DP-008
TEAC CORPORATION
Phone: +81-42-356 -9143
1-47 Ochiai, Tama-shi, Tokyo 206-853 0 Japan
TEAC AMERICA, IN C. Phone: +1-323-726-03 03
7733 Telegra ph Road, Mo ntebello, California 906 40, USA
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5939 Wallace Street, Missi ssauga , Ontario L4Z 1Z8, Canada
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Río Chur ubusco 3 64, Colonia Del Car men, Delegació n Coyoacán, CP 04100, México D F, México
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Suites 19 & 20, Building 6, Croxley Gre en Business Park, Hatter s Lane, Wat ford, He rtfordshire. WD18 8TE, U.K.
TEAC EUROPE GmbH Phone: +49- 611-71580
Bahnstrasse 12, 65205 Wiesbaden-Er benheim, Germa ny
www.tascam.jp
www.tascam.com
www.tascam.com
www.teacmexico.net
www.tascam.co.uk
www.tascam.de
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