Tascam DR-05 User Manual

DR-05

Linear PCM Recorder

D01231720A

REFERENCE MANUAL

Table of Contents

1–Introduction ............................................6

Features ..................................................................... 6

Conventions used in this manual .................... 8

2–Names and Functions of Parts ............... 9

Top panel ................................................................. 9

Front panel ............................................................. 13

Rear panel .............................................................. 13

Left side panel ...................................................... 14

Right side panel ................................................... 14

Bottom Panel ........................................................ 15

Home Screen ......................................................... 16

Recording Screen ................................................ 18

Playback Control screen .................................... 20

Menu item list ....................................................... 21

Using menus ..........................................................22

Basic operation ..................................................... 23

3–Preparation ............................................25

Powering the unit ................................................ 25

Using AA batteries ..............................................25

Using an AC adaptor (sold separately) ........25

Using USB bus power .........................................26

Start-up & shutdown .......................................... 27

Starting up the unit ............................................27

2 TASCAM DR-05

Shutting down .....................................................28

Resume function .................................................29

Setting the date and time ................................ 29

Inserting and removing microSD cards ...... 31

Inserting the microSD card .............................. 31

Removing the card ............................................. 31

Preparing a microSD card for use .................. 32

Using the built-in speaker ................................ 32

Connecting monitors and headphones ..... 33

4–Recording ..............................................34

Selecting file format/sampling

frequency/type, and maximum file size ..... 34

Set where to save the file ................................. 36

Setting the input functions .............................36

Placing the unit and making connections . 38

Recording with the built-in mics ..................38

Recording with external mics (MIC IN) ........ 38

Recording an external device (EXT IN) ........38

Adjusting the input level .................................. 39

Manually adjusting the input level ...............39

Using the Level Control Function .................41

Recording ............................................................... 43

Recording playback and input sounds

together (overdubbing) ....................................44

Table of Contents

Select the file you want to overdub .............44

Selecting file format ........................................... 45

Simultaneous listening to playback and

input sound (Monitor Mix) ...............................45

Adjusting the input level

(simple adjustment) ...........................................46

Start the overdubbing ....................................... 47

Recording automatically (AUTO REC) .......... 48

Creating and changeover to a new file
during continued recording

(Track incrementing) ..........................................50

Manual track incrementation

during recording ................................................50

Automatic track incrementation

by file size ............................................................... 51

Mark function........................................................ 52

Adding marks manually to a recording ......52

Adding marks automatically to a recording

Moving to a mark position ...............................53

..52

Recording the moment before pushing

RECORD (PRE REC) ...............................................53

Self-timer function ..............................................54

Using the AUTO TONE function ..................... 55

Setting the AUTO TONE function ..................56

Setting the AUTO TONE length ......................56

Adjusting the AUTO TONE volume ............... 57

Recording duration .............................................58

5–Working with Files and Folders

(BROWSE screen) .................................59

Screen navigation ............................................... 59

Icons on the BROWSE screen .......................... 60

File operations ...................................................... 61

Folder operations ................................................62

Creating a new folder ........................................63

6–Playback .................................................64

Adjusting playback volume ............................. 64

Setting the playback area (AREA) ..................64

Selecting a folder for the playback area (1)
Selecting a folder for the playback area (2)

.. 66

..67

Playlist ......................................................................68

Adding tracks to the playlist ...........................68

Editing the playlist ..............................................69

Selecting files for playback (skip) .................. 71

Playback ..................................................................71

Pausing ....................................................................71

Stopping .................................................................72

Rewinding and fast-forwarding (search) ....72

Repeat playback (REPEAT) ................................ 72

TASCAM DR-05 3

Table of Contents

Special Playback Control Functions ............. 73

Playback Control Screen ...................................74

Repeated Playback of Selection (Loop

Playback) ................................................................74

Changing the playback speed (VSA) ............76

Using the playback equalizer (PLAY EQ) ..... 77

Moving back a few seconds for replay

(jump-back playback) ....................................... 78

7-Quick Operations ................................... 79

Features of the QUICK button......................... 79

Quick menu screen ............................................. 80

Closing the Quick menu screen .....................82

Deleting the selected file (Quick Delete) ....82

Dividing the selected file (DIVIDE) ................83

Increasing the perceived overall sound
pressure to enhance listenability (Level

Alignment) .............................................................84

8-Using the Effects ....................................86

Setting the effect.................................................86

Effects Preset List .................................................87

9-Tuning a Musical Instrument (Tuner) ...88

Using the tuner .....................................................88

Setting the tuner .................................................88

4 TASCAM DR-05

Tuning a musical instrument ..........................89

Adjusting the input level for tuning.............89

10–Connecting with a Computer .............90

Transferring files to a computer ..................... 91

Transferring files from a computer ...............92

Disconnecting from a computer ...................92

11–Settings and Information ...................93

Viewing File Information .................................. 93

File information page ........................................93

Card information page ......................................94

System information page .................................94

System Settings and Formatting ................... 95

Setting the automatic power saving func-

tion ............................................................................95

Turning the unit power OFF automatically ..

Setting the backlight .........................................96

Adjusting the display contrast .......................96

Setting the type of AA batteries ....................96

Restoring the factory settings ........................96

Using QUICK FORMAT ........................................97

Using FULL FORMAT ...........................................97

95

Setting the format of file names .................... 98

File name format ................................................99

Setting the WORD item .....................................99

12–Messages ............................................100

13–Troubleshooting ................................104

14–Specifications ....................................107

Ratings ................................................................... 107

Input/output ratings ........................................107

Analog audio input/output ratings ............107

Control input/output ratings ........................107

Audio performance ..........................................108

Computer compatibility .................................108

Other specifications .........................................109

Dimensional drawings ..................................... 111

Table of Contents

TASCAM DR-05 5

1–Introduction

Thank you very much for purchasing the TASCAM
DR-05 Linear PCM Recorder. Please read this
Owner’s Manual carefully in order to maximize
your use of all the unit’s features. We hope that
you will enjoy using this recorder for many years
to come.

After you have nished reading this manual, please
keep it in a safe place for future reference.

You can also download the Reference Manual from
the TEAC Global Site (http://teac-global.com/).

Features

• Compact audio recorder that uses microSD/
microSDHC cards as recording media

• Omnidirectional stereo microphones allow high­quality stereo recording

• 44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit, linear PCM (WAV
format) recording possible

• Compatible with WAV files in BWF format

6 TASCAM DR-05

• 32–320 kbps MP3 format recording possible
(compatible with ID3 tag v2.4)

• Overdubbing allows playback and input signals
to be mixed and recorded together as a new file

• Built-in 0.3 W monaural output speaker

• Built-in effect (reverb) can be used during
recording and playback

• Auto-record function starts recording
automatically when a set sound input level is
detected

• Automatic tone insertion function convenient
for synchronizing with video files when editing

• Can start recording a new file automatically
when a maximum file size set in advance is
reached without interrupting recording

• A QUICK button is available for easy access to
various functions

• Track incrementing function allows a recording
to be split by creating a new file when desired

• Pre-recording (PRE REC) function allows the
unit to record the 2 seconds of sound before
recording is activated

1–Introduction

• Peak reduction function is available to reduce
the level automatically in case of excessively
large input.

• Automatic level control is available to increase or
decrease the recording volume when the input
sound is too small or too large, respectively.

• Limiter function automatically reduces the level
suitably in particular portions where the input
level is too high

• Low cut filter conveniently reduces low­frequency noise

• VSA function can change the playback speed
in the range from 0.5 to 1.5 times (in 0.1
increments) the normal speed without changing
pitch

• Repeat playback and IN-OUT loop playback
functions

• PB CONTROL button is available to show settings
screens for playback speed control and IN-OUT
loop

• Tuner function to tune musical instruments

• Self-timer function to start recording after a set
period of time.

• Jump back and play function allows the last
several seconds of the currently played file to be
replayed again by simply pressing a button

• REC DELAY function can be used to avoid
recording the sound of pressing the RECORD
button

• Playlist function

• DIVIDE function allows files to be split where
desired (only for WAV files)

• MARK function convenient for moving to
specific locations

• Equalizers function for playback, and level
alignment function to enhance the perceived
overall sound pressure

• File name format can be set to use a user­defined word or the date

• Resume function to memorize the playback
position before the unit is turned off.

TASCAM DR-05 7

1–Introduction

• 3.5mm (1/8”) jack for external stereo
microphone input (provides plug-in power) or
external stereo line input

• 3.5mm (1/8”) line/headphones output jack

• 128 x 64 pixel LCD with backlight

• Mini-B type USB 2.0 port

• Operates on 2 AA batteries, an AC adaptor (sold
separately: TASCAM PS- P515U), or USB bus
power

• Tripod attachment screw-hole built into unit

• USB cable included

8 TASCAM DR-05

Conventions used in this manual

The following conventions are used in this manual.

• When we refer to a button or connector or
control on the DR-05, the typeface looks like this:
MENU.

• When we show messages, for example, that
appears on the screen, the typeface looks like
this: ON.

• “microSD memory card” is sometimes
abbreviated as “microSD card”.

• Additional information is introduced in the
styles below when needed:

TIP

We give hints and tips on using the DR-05 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.

2–Names and Functions of Parts

Top panel

1 Built-in stereo microphone

Omnidirectional stereo electret condenser
microphone. If you connect an external
microphone or external input to the MIC/
EXT IN jack on the rear panel, the built-in
microphone becomes inactive.

2 PEAK indicator

Lights when the input volume is too high.

3 Display

Shows a variety of information.

4 (HOME) [ª] button

Press this button during playback to cause the
playback to pause at the current position. Press
this button during pause time to return to the
beginning of the track.

Press this button during recording or recording
standby to cause the recording to stop.

When any other screen is open, press this
button to return to the Home Screen. Use
this button to answer “NO” to a confirmation
message.

Press and hold this button to turn the unit’s
power ON or OFF.

TASCAM DR-05 9

2–Names and Functions of Parts

5 + button

When the Home or
press this button to increase the output level
from the built-in speaker or /LINE OUT jack.
During adjustment, a volume indicator will be
displayed in a pull-up window.

When the Playback Control screen is displayed,
press this button to increase the playback
speed.

When a setting screen is open, use the button
to change the setting of the selected item.

TUNER

screen is displayed,

6 MENU button

When the Home Screen is displayed, press this
button to open the

Press this button to return to the
from the various setting screens.

When the
button to return to the Home Screen.

When the IN and OUT points are set in the track
and the Playback Control screen is displayed,
press this button to turn on or off loop
playback.

MENU

MENU

Screen.

MENU

Screen is displayed, press this

7 Â button

10 TASCAM DR-05

Screen

Press this button to return to the beginning of
a track that is playing or stopped in the middle.
When the IN and OUT points are set between
the current position and the beginning of the
track, pressing this button skips to those points.

If you press this button when a track is stopped
at its beginning, the unit will skip to the
beginning of the previous track.

Press and hold this button to search backwards.
Press this button while pressing and holding

the MARK button to return to the previous
mark.

On the setting screens, use this button to move
the cursor left. On the
this button to move up a level.

Press this button during recording or recording
standby to decrease the input level from the
built-in microphone or MIC/EXT IN jack. During
adjustment, a pull-up window is shown in the
display.

BROWSE

Screen, press

8 PB CONT button

This button activates the Playback Control
screen. When the Playback Control screen is

2–Names and Functions of Parts

displayed, press this button to return to the
Home Screen.

Press this button during recording standby to
turn off the self-timer function or change the
time period.

9 – button

When the Home Screen or the
displayed, press this button to decrease the
output level from the built-in speaker or /LINE
OUT jack. During adjustment, a volume
indicator will be displayed in a pull-up window.

When the Playback Control screen is open,
press this button to decrease the playback
speed.

When a setting screen is open, use the button
to change the setting of the selected item.

TUNER

screen is

0 REC indicator

The indicator flashes during recording standby.
The indicator lights while recording.

q RECORD [º] button

When stopped, press this button to put the unit
into recording standby. REC indicator starts to
flash. When INPUT is ON on the

MONITOR MIX

screen (MONITOR MIX is ON), a pop-up menu
appears to ask whether overdubbing is ON/OFF.

w QUICK button

When playing back, stopped, paused or in
recording standby in the Home Screen or when
the Playback Control screen is displayed, press
this button to display the Quick Menu screen.
The function to be shown depends on the state
of the unit when the button is pressed.

• Stopped: delete, division, or level alignment for
the current song

• Playback/Playback Control screen: level
alignment

• Recording standby: level control

Press this button to divide the recording by
creating a new file.

When the
is displayed, press this button to show or cancel
the popup menu for file/folder operations.

BROWSE

screen or

PLAYLIST

e ¯ button

Press this button during playback or when
playback is stopped to skip to beginning of the
next track. When the IN and OUT points are set

TASCAM DR-05 11

screen

2–Names and Functions of Parts

between the current position and the end of
the track, pressing this button skips to those
points.

Press and hold this button to search forward.
On the setting screens, use this button to move

the cursor right.
Press this button while pressing and holding

the MARK button to move to the next mark.
On the Browse Screen, press this button to

move down a level. If a file is selected, the file
is loaded and the unit returns to the Home
Screen.

Press this button during recording or recording
standby to increase the input level from the
built-in microphone or MIC/EXT IN jack. During
adjustment, a pull-up window is shown in the
display.

r Á button

When the Home Screen is displayed and
playback is stopped, press this button to start
playback.

During playback, press this button to start
jump-back playback.

12 TASCAM DR-05

When a setting screen is open, use this to
confirm selections.

When a file or folder is selected in the
screen, press this button to return to the Home
Screen and play the file or the first file in the
folder from the beginning.

t MARK button

When recording, use it to add markers
manually.

Press the  or ¯ button while pressing
and holding this button to move to the
previous or next mark, respectively.

When the Playback Control screen is open,
use this button to set the IN (start) and OUT

(end) points of the interval that you want to set
for loop playback. When the IN and OUT points
are already set, press this button to cancel loop
playback and clear the IN and OUT points.

BROWSE

2–Names and Functions of Parts

Front panel

y Strap attachment

Use this to attach a strap.

Rear panel

u MIC/EXT IN jack

Use this input jack to connect a stereo mini-jack
microphone or an external input device. This jack
provides plug-in power when set to do so on the
Input Setting Screen.

The built-in microphone is disabled if an external
microphone is connected to the MIC/EX T IN jack.

TASCAM DR-05 13

2–Names and Functions of Parts

Left side panel

i /LINE OUT jack

Use this to connect with headphones or the line
input jack of an amp or other equipment.

o HOLD switch

Shift to the left end (in the direction of the
arrow) to engage the hold function.

All buttons are inoperative when hold is ON.

14 TASCAM DR-05

Right side panel

p USB port

Use the included USB cable to connect with a
computer USB port.

Power can be supplied through the USB cable
provided with the unit or an AC adaptor (sold
separately: TASCAM PS-P515U).

a microSD card slot

Insert a microSD card into this slot.

2–Names and Functions of Parts

Bottom Panel

s Mono speaker

Use this built-in speaker to listen to recordings.
Sound is not output during recording, when the

unit is in recording standby, when headphones

are connected, when the speaker is disabled, or
when Monitor Mix is enabled.

d Tripod attachment screw-hole (1/4-inch)

Use this to attach the unit to a tripod or mic
stand.

CAUTION

• Tighten the unit securely to the tripod or microphone
stand to prevent it from falling off.

• Place the tripod or microphone stand on a level surface
when using it with this unit.

f Battery compartment cover
g Battery compartment

Install batteries (2 AA) in this compartment to
power the unit. (See “Using AA batteries” on
page 25.)

TASCAM DR-05 15

2–Names and Functions of Parts

Home Screen

1 Playback speed setting status

Icon Playback speed

x1.0
x1.1 - x1.5
x0.5 - x0.9
Playback speed not controllable

2 Loop/repeat playback status

: Single playback
: Single track repeat playback

16 TASCAM DR-05

: All track repeat playback

: Loop playback

3 Monitor mix function status

This shows whether the monitor mix function
is on or off.

: Monitor Mix off
: Monitor Mix on

4 Effect status

Shows whether the effect function is ON or OFF.

: Effect off
: Effect on

5 Power supply 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-P515U AC adaptor (sold

separately) or USB bus power, appears.

NOTE

Sometimes a “Battery Low” warning appears when recording
or conducting other demanding operations even when
battery power remains.

2–Names and Functions of Parts

6 Recorder operation status

ª Stopped
π Paused
Á Playing back
 Fast-forwarding
Ô Fast-rewinding
¯ Skipping forward
 Skipping backward

7 Level meter

The level of the input or playback sounds is
shown.

When Monitor Mix function is ON, the level of
the combined input and playback sounds is
shown.

8 File information

The file name or tag information of the file
currently being played back is shown.

ID3 tag information is shown when available for
an MP3 file being played.

NOTE

ID3 tag information includes the titles and artists names that
can be saved in MP3 files.

9 Playback position display

The current playback position is shown by a bar.
As playback progresses, the bar extends to the
right.

0

Elapsed time

Shows the elapsed time (hours: minutes:
seconds) of the currently playing track.

q Remaining time

Shows the remaining playback time of the
current track (hours: minutes: seconds).

w

Peak value in decibels (dB)

The maximum level that occurs in a fixed period
of time is displayed digitally.

e Monitoring output

: Headphones
: Built-in speaker

TASCAM DR-05 17

2–Names and Functions of Parts

r Playback area

ALL

All files in the

FOLDER
P.LIST

t

Loop playback IN (starting) and OUT

All files in the selected folder
All files added to the playlist

MUSIC

folder

(ending) points

The set starting and ending points of the loop
are shown.

The icon appears at the playback position
when the starting point is set.

The icon appears at the playback position
when the ending point is set.

y

Playback file number/total number of files

The total number of files in the playback area
and the number of the current file are shown.

18 TASCAM DR-05

Recording Screen

This screen appears when recording or in recording
standby.

1 Level control function status

2 Plug-in power status

: Level control off
: Peak reduction on
: Automatic level control on
: Limiter on

: off
: on

2–Names and Functions of Parts

3

Prerecording or Auto recording function
status

: appears when the prerecording function is

ON, and in recording standby.

: appears when the auto recording

function is ON, and recording.

4 Low cut filter status

: Low cut filter off
: Low cut filter on (when set to 40Hz, 80Hz,

or 120Hz)

5 Auto tone function status

This icon shows whether the auto tone function
is on or off. (See “Using the AUTO TONE
function” on page 55.)

: Auto tone o
: Auto tone on

6 Recorder operation status

ª Recording standby
π Recording paused (Recording standby)
º Recording

Recording level meters

7

The input signal level is shown.
During overdub recording, the level of the combined

input and playback sounds is shown.
A ¶ mark is given at the -12dB position on the scale

as a guide mark for input level adjustment.

8 File name

The file name that will automatically be given to
recorded files is shown.

9

Recording mode

Recording file format, sampling frequency, and
stereo/mono (ST/MONO) status are shown.

0

Elapsed recording time

The elapsed recording time of the track appears
as hours: minutes: seconds.

q

Remaining recording time

The remaining recording time until the selected
max file size is reached appears in hours:
minutes: seconds.

If the remaining recording time on the card
is less than the remaining time until the
selected max file size is reached, the remaining
recording time on the card is displayed.

TASCAM DR-05 19

2–Names and Functions of Parts

w Peak value in decibels (dB)

Peak recording level values are shown digitally.

e

Input level display buttons

The  and ¯ buttons are shown on the
display to indicate that the input level can be
changed using these buttons.

Press the button (Â or ¯) to display the
pull-up window that shows the input level at
this position.

20 TASCAM DR-05

Playback Control screen

The Playback Control screen is displayed if the PB
CONT button is pressed during playback or when

playback is stopped.
Recording cannot be performed while this screen is
displayed. Press the  or ¯ button to skip to
the I/O point or the beginning/end, instead of the
previous or next le.

1 Loop playback status

The icon is displayed when loop playback
is enabled.

2 Playback speed

Playback speed as compared with the normal
speed is shown.

VSA

shown on the left to indicate that the VSA

(variable speed audition: enables the tempo

2–Names and Functions of Parts

to be changed without changing the pitch)
function is enabled.

3 Playback position display

The current playback position is shown by a bar. As
playback progresses, the bar extends to the right.

4 Loop playback IN (starting) and OUT

(ending) points

The set starting and ending points of the loop
are shown.
The icon appears at the playback position on
the bar when the starting point is set.
The icon appears at the playback position on
the bar when the ending point is set.

5 Available buttons

The buttons available in the Playback Control
screen are as follows.

MARK : Creates or deletes an IN or OUT point.
MENU : Switch over between ON and OFF

status of the loop playback function.

NOTE

Unlike the other screens, the QUICK button in this screen
works to display the quick menu containing only the LEVEL
ALIGN function, and no other functions will be available.

Menu item list

This list provides an overview of the various menu
items.

Menu item Function Pages

REC SETTING
PLAY

SETTING

BROWSE

SPEAKER

OTHERS OTHERS

Recording mode settings
Play area select, repeat

setting,

playback equalizer,

jump-back settings

microSD card le and
folder operations

ON/OFF status of built-in
speaker

display

submenu

TASCAM DR-05 21

34

64,
72,
77,

78
59

32

Next
table

2–Names and Functions of Parts

The

OTHERS

is selected in the

submenu appears when

MENU

screen. The menu items

OTHERS

contained are as follows.

INFORMATION

MONITOR
MIX

EFFECT
TUNER
FILE NAME
DATE/TIME
SYSTEM

CAUTION

• When recording or in recording standby, only the
following screens and items are shown.

REC SETTING screen: MIC POWER, LOW CUT and AUTO
REC items (AUTO REC setting cannot be changed)

MONITOR MIX screen: INPUT and PB INPUT items
(INPUT setting cannot be changed)

EFFECT screen: all items

Information about the le,
microSD card, and system

Monitor Mix settings

Eect settings
Tuner settings
File name settings
Date and time settings
Various system settings

22 TASCAM DR-05

• The MENU button is disabled in the Playback Control
screen, but works to change over between ON and OFF
status of the loop playback function. (See “Repeated

93

45

86
88
98

Playback of Selection (Loop Playback)” on page 74.)

Using menus

Use the

MENU

screen to make various settings.

Example: setting the playback area

1

Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.

29
95

2 Use the + or – button to select a menu item

(highlighted), and use the Á button to move
to various settings screens.

Example:

PLAY SETTING

screen

2–Names and Functions of Parts

3 Use the + or – button to select a menu item

(highlighted) to be set.

Example:

4 Use the ¯ or Á button to move the cursor

to highlight the value of the setting.

5 Use the + or – button to change the setting.

6 Press the  button to set a different item

AREA

is selected.

in the same menu.
This enables you to select a new item. Use the
+ or − button again to select an item to be
set.

7

Repeat step 3 to 6 as necessary to set each item.

8 To open the

button.
To return to the Home Screen (or
submenu screen), press the (HOME) [ª]
button.

MENU

screen, press the MENU

OTHERS

Basic operation

Use the following buttons to operate the various
screens.

MENU button:

Opens the

PB CONT button:

This opens the Playback Control screen.

(HOME) [ª] button:

MENU

screen.

TASCAM DR-05 23

2–Names and Functions of Parts

When any other screen is open, press this to
return to the Home Screen. Use this to answer
“NO” to a confirmation message.

Á button:

Use this to confirm the selection of a setting
item or to answer “

message.

YES

” to a confirmation

¯ button:

Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted
area) to the right on the screen, and to open
folders on the

BROWSE

screen.

 button:

Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted
area) to the left on the screen, and to close
folders on the

+ button:

Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted
area) upward on the screen, or increase values.

– button:

BROWSE

screen.

24 TASCAM DR-05

Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted
area) downward on the screen, or decrease
values.

QUICK button:

This opens the Quick menu.

A popup menu is turned on or off in the

BROWSE

screen or

PLAYLIST

screen.

3–Preparation

Powering the unit

DR-05 can operate on two AA batteries, or through
an optional AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P515U) or USB
cable provided with the unit (USB bus power).

Alkaline or Ni-MH batteries can be used.

Using AA batteries

Open the battery compartment cover on the back
of the unit. Fit two AA batteries to the + and –
marks shown in the compartment, and close the
battery compartment cover.

When using AA batteries, set the type of battery
in order to accurately show the amount of power

remaining and allow the unit to accurately
determine whether power is available for proper
operation. (See “Setting the type of AA batteries” on
page 96.)

NOTE

• Manganese dry cell batteries (R6) cannot be used with

this unit.

• This unit cannot recharge Ni-MH batteries. Use a

commercially available recharger.

• The included alkaline batteries are for confirming

operation of the unit and might not last very long.

Using an AC adaptor (sold separately)

Connect the PS- P515U AC adaptor and the USB
cable to the USB port of the unit as shown in the
illustration.

TASCAM DR-05 25

3–Preparation

TASCAM
PS-P515U

CAUTION

• Never use any adaptor other than the designated PS­P515U AC adaptor. Use of a different adaptor could
cause malfunction, fire or electric shock.

• Noise may occur when recording with a microphone if
the unit is too close to the AC adaptor. In such a case, keep
sufficient distance between the AC adaptor and the unit.

26 TASCAM DR-05

AC Outlet

USB (mini B) plug

NOTE

When both batteries are installed and the AC adaptor is
connected, power will be supplied from the AC adaptor.

Using USB bus power

Connect the unit to a PC using the attached USB
cable as shown in the illustration.

PC

The

USB SELECT

between USB bus power for power supply or
connection with a PC through the USB cable when
USB cable is connected after the unit is turned on
or when the unit is turned on after connecting the
USB cable. Use the + or – button to select

POWER

and press the Á button to select power

screen appears to choose

USB (mini B)

BUS

3–Preparation

supply from the USB port. The Home Screen will
appear.

NOTE

Power is supplied from the USB port if the USB cable is
connected to the unit that contains batteries (USB bus power
prioritized).

Start-up & shutdown

CAUTION

• The unit goes in standby mode if shut down when the
unit is operating on AC power supplied through the AC
adapter (TASCAM PS-P515U, sold separately), or bus
power supplied from a USB port of a PC.

• Turn down the volume of the sound system connected to
the unit before starting up or shutting down the unit.

• Do not use headphones when starting up or shutting
down the unit. Otherwise, a large noise would cause
damage to headphones or your ears.

Starting up the unit

To start up the unit from the stopped state, press
and hold the (HOME) [ª] button until

TASCAM DR-05

the display. The Home Screen appears when the
unit starts up.

(start-up screen) is displayed on

TASCAM DR-05 27

3–Preparation

Start -Up Screen

(highlighted area), and use the + or - button to change
values.

Press the Á button to fix the settings.
The start-up screen is displayed, and then the Home Screen

appears after the unit has started up.
Date/time adjustment may be skipped by pressing the Á

button, and made later. (See “Setting the date and time” on
page 29.)

Home Screen

CAUTION

When the unit is started up for the first time (or when
the built-in clock is reset after being left unused without
batteries), the DATE/TIME screen appears before the start-up
screen to adjust the date and time.

Press the  or ¯ button to move the cursor

28 TASCAM DR-05

Shutting down

Press and hold the (HOME) [ª] button until

LINEAR PCM RECORDER

The power turns o after the unit completes its
shutdown process.

appears on the display.

3–Preparation

CAUTION

Always use the (HOME) [ª] button to shutdown the
unit.

Do not remove the batteries or disconnect the power cable
(AC adapter TASCAM PS-P515U or USB cable) accidently
while the unit is operating. If you do so, the unit cannot shut
down properly and all recordings, settings and other data
will be lost. Lost data cannot be restored.

Resume function

The unit has resume function. When started up, the
unit is located to the position (time) where it left o
when shut down previously.

If the Playback button is pressed after start-up,
the track the unit was playing when shut down
previously starts to be played from the position
(time) where the unit left o when shut down.

NOTE

The required data are stored in the microSD card. The resume
function does not work if the card is exchanged or formatted.

Setting the date and time

Using its internal clock, this unit remembers the
date and time when a le is recorded.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or – button to select the

menu item (highlighted), and press the Á
button.

The

OTHERS

screen is displayed.

MENU

OTHERS

TASCAM DR-05 29

3–Preparation

3 Use the + or – button to select the

TIME

menu item, and press the Á button.

The

DATE/TIME

4 Press the  or ¯ button to move the

cursor (highlighted area), and use the + or –
button to change values.

5 Press the Á button to confirm the change

and return to the

screen is displayed.

OTHERS

screen.

DATE/

30 TASCAM DR-05

NOTE

You can set the unit to automatically add the date to file
names. (See “Setting the format of file names” on page 98.)

CAUTION

The date and time setting can only be maintained for a few
minutes if the unit is not powered from batteries or through
the AC adaptor TASCAM PS-P515U or the USB cable. When
using batteries, replace them before they completely lose
power.

3–Preparation

Inserting and removing microSD cards

Inserting the microSD card

NOTE

A microSD card is already installed when the unit is shipped
from the factory. If you want to use this card to record and
play tracks, there is no need to reinstall it.

1 Open the microSD slot cover on the right side

panel.

2 Insert the microSD Card into the slot as

shown in the following illustration until it
clicks into place.

Removing the card

1 Open the microSD slot cover on the right side

panel.

2 Press the microSD card in gently and then

release it to allow it to come out.

CAUTION

• Do not remove the microSD card from the unit when it is
connected to a computer by USB.

• microSD cards that meet microSD or microSDHC
standards can be used with this unit.

• A list of microSD cards that have been confirmed to
work with this unit can be found on the TEAC Global Site
(http://teac-global.com/).

TASCAM DR-05 31

3–Preparation

Preparing a microSD card for use

In order to use a microSD card in this unit, you must
format it rst.

1 Confirm that a microSD card is installed and

turn the power ON.

2 The following message appears when a new

card or a card formatted for use with another
device is installed in the unit.

3 Press the Á button to start formatting.

4 When formatting ends, the Home Screen

opens.

You can also reformat the card in this unit at any
time. (See “System Settings and Formatting” on
page 95.)

32 TASCAM DR-05

CAUTION

• When formatting a card, the unit should be operating on
AC power supplied through the PS-P515U adapter (sold
separately), USB bus power supplied from a computer, or
batteries with sufficient remaining power.

• Formatting a card erases all the data on it.

Using the built-in speaker

Enable

SPEAKER

unit to play over the built-in speaker.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or – button to select the

and press the Á button.

The

SPEAKER

on the

MENU

screen to allow the

screen is displayed.

MENU

SPEAKER

3–Preparation

3 Use the + or – button to select ON.

4 When finished, press the (HOME) [ª]

button to return to the Home Screen.

NOTE

Even if

SPEAKER

the speaker when the unit is recording sound, in recording
standby, or muted with headphones or external speaker
system connected.

is enabled, the unit will not play through

Connecting monitors and headphones

To listen with headphones, connect them to the /
LINE OUT jack.

To listen with an external monitoring system to the

/LINE OUT jack.

Headphones

Powered monitor speakers or
amplier and speakers

TASCAM DR-05 33

4–Recording

In addition to using the built-in microphone, you
can record using an external microphone or record
the output signal from a mixer or other audio
source. You can select among MP3 (44.1/48 kHz,
32–320 kbps) and WAV (44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit)
audio recording formats.

As the unit is compatible with the BWF format for
WAV les, marks added to the WAV les during
recording are available when playing back the les
using a BWF compliant software, etc.

With this unit, you can mix and record a sound
input through the built-in mic or one of the input
jack with an audio le that is played back using the
overdubbing function.

Selecting file format/sampling frequency/type, and maximum file size

Select the audio le type that you want to record
before you start recording.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

34 TASCAM DR-05

MENU

Screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

SETTING

REC SETTING

3 Use the + or − button to select

press the ¯ or Á button.

Set the file format with the + or − button to

from the following:

WAV: 16bit (default), WAV 24bit

MP3: 32kbps, 64kbps, 96kbps, 128kbps,
192kbps, 256kbps, 320kbps

, and press the Á button.

screen appears.

REC

FORMAT

, and

4–Recording

NOTE

• Higher values provide better recording quality.

• WAV files are higher quality than MP3 files, but they
take up more space, so MP3 formats allow for longer
recordings.

4 Press the  button to show settings.

5 Use the + or – button to select

TYPE

, and

press the ¯ or Á button.

The procedure to select the creation of a stereo
or mono file is as follows.

Use the + or – button to select
or

MONO

.

If

MONO

is selected, a mono file is created, and

STEREO

(default)

the same signals are sent to both L and R level
meters and output channels.

If sound is recorded in
file size will be half that recorded in

MONO

in WAV format, the

STEREO

allowing long time recording.

6 Press the  button to show settings.

7 Use the + or – button to select

SAMPLE

, and

press the ¯ or Á button.

Set the sampling frequency with the + or −

button to one of the following options.

44.1k

(default),

NOTE

96k

cannot be selected if

48k, 96k

FORMAT

is set to MP3.

8 Press the  button to show settings.

9 Use the + or – button to select

SIZE

, and

press the ¯ or Á button.

TASCAM DR-05 35

,

4–Recording

Set the maximum file size with the + or −

button to one of the following options.

64M, 128M, 256M, 512M, 1G, 2G

(default)

Set where to save the file

Set the folder where recorded les are saved. The
created sound le will be saved in the currently
selected folder. For details, see “SELECT” popup
menu under “Folder operations” on page 62.

If no setting is made, new recording les are placed
in the

MUSIC

folder.

NOTE

• If the maximum set file size is exceeded during recording,
the unit will automatically continue recording in a new
file.

• Depending on the file format, the amount of recording
time will differ for the same file size. The amount of
recording time is shown on the right of the setting value
(in parentheses).

• Recording automatically stops if recording time exceeds
24 hours.

10 Press the (HOME) [ª] button to return to

the Home Screen.

36 TASCAM DR-05

Setting the input functions

1 Press the MENU button to open the

Screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

SETTING

REC SETTING

The following input settings are made in this screen.

, and press the Á button.

screen appears.

REC

MENU

4–Recording

Use the  or ¯ button or the + or − button
to select the following settings.

MIC POWER:

When connecting a microphone that requires plug­in power, set this to ON. The factory default is

OFF

.

LOW CUT:

The factory default setting of the low cut lter is

OFF

, but you can also select

40Hz, 80Hz

or

120Hz

as the cut-o frequency for a low cut lter.

CAUTION

• Set

MIC POWER

connecting a dynamic microphone or microphone with
a built-in battery. If set to ON, the plug-in power may
damage such microphones.

• Use headphones to monitor when you are recording with

a microphone. If you use speakers to monitor, the sound
output from the speakers may also be recorded, causing
a poor recording and even feedback.

NOTE

MIC POWER

and

to

OFF

when using the built-in mic or

LOW CUT

can be set when recording/in

recording standby.

TIP

• The LOW CUT filter can reduce noise such as offensive
wind noise from air-conditioners and projectors.

• Use the built-in effects of this unit as necessary on the
input source. (See “8-Using the Effects” on page 86.)

TASCAM DR-05 37

4–Recording

Placing the unit and making connections

Recording with the built-in mics

Point the mics at the sound source and place
the unit in a stable location where there is little
vibration.

Recording with external mics (MIC IN)

Connect an external mic to the MIC/EXT IN
connector.

Point the mics at the sound source and place
the unit in a stable location where there is little
vibration.

38 TASCAM DR-05

Recording an external device (EXT IN)

Use a stereo miniplug cable to connect to the
output of an external audio device.

Other audio equipment or
external sound source

CAUTION

• Reduce the output level of the external audio device if the
input sound is distorted even when reducing the input
gain level on the unit.

• When an external audio device with a fixed output line
level is connected, it would be impossible to control the
gain level appropriately because of excessively large
input signals. In such cases, use the headphone jack or
other level-controllable output for connection to the unit.

4–Recording

Adjusting the input level

Before starting recording, the input level should
be adjusted to prevent the recorded sounds from
being distorted due to excessively large input
signals or from being inaudible due to excessively
small input signals compared to noise.

In addition to manual adjustment, the unit has the
following three level adjustment functions: peak
reduction, automatic level control, and limiter. Any
of these can be used as required.

TIP

In addition to adjusting the INPUT level, try changing the
distance and angle between the microphone and the sound
source. The angle and distance of the microphone can also
change the character of the recorded sound.

Manually adjusting the input level

The following procedures explain how to use the
Record Screen to set the levels.

CAUTION

Manual adjustment cannot be performed when the
automatic level control mode is selected as a level control
function ( lighted on the upper left in the recording
screen). To enable manual input level adjustment, select OFF
or other mode in the level control setting screen (see “Using
the Level Control Function” on page 41).

1 Press the RECORD [º] button to begin

recording standby.

The record indicator flashes red and the
recording screen appears.

TASCAM DR-05 39

4–Recording

2 The  or ¯ button is used to adjust the

input level. Press the  or ¯ button to
show a pull-up menu screen for input level
setting.

If the input is too high, the PEAK indicator on
the upper left above the display lights.

A ¶ mark is provided at -12dB on the level
meters. Set the input level so that the indicator
bars move to and fro with this mark at about the
center without causing the PEAK indicator to
light red when the loudest sounds occur.

40 TASCAM DR-05

NOTE

• Press the (HOME) [ª] button to exit recording
standby.

• When in recording standby or during recording, the
speaker does not output sound even if the
setting is enabled. Connect headphones to the /LINE

OUT jack if you want to adjust the level or record while

monitoring the input. Use the + or − button in the Home
Screen to adjust the monitoring volume. This does not

affect the sound to be recorded.

SPEAKER

4–Recording

Using the Level Control Function

The level control function for recording through a
microphone is set as follows.

1 Press the RECORD [º] button to bring the

unit in recording standby. The REC indicator
will flash and the recording screen will
appear.

2 Press the QUICK button.

The Quick menu screen will appear.

3 Select (highlight)

LEVEL CTRL

, and press the

Á button.

The level control setting screen will appear.

Options:

AUTO LEVEL, LIMITER

4 Use the + or − button to select (highlight) a

mode, and press the Á button to enable the
mode and return to the recording screen.

The selected mode is shown with an icon in the
recording screen.

PEAK REDUCTION:

The input volume is reduced automatically to an
appropriate level when excessively large signals
come in. This allows recording level setting to be
performed easily.

The recording level can be raised manually if
required.

OFF

(default),

PEAK REDUCTION

TASCAM DR-05 41

,

4–Recording

TIP

When recording live performances, for example, test for peak
reduction may be performed before actual recording.

Select the peak reduction mode in recording standby, and
maximize the recording level.

As a test performance is given subsequently, the input gain
for recording is reduced to an appropriate level to meet
the input signals, and an optimum recording level for the
performance is set.

Recording will be stored at this recording level if this mode is
disabled before starting recording.

Otherwise, the recording level will continue to be controlled
automatically during recording.

It is also possible to store the recording in the limiter mode
after automatically setting the recording level in the peak
reduction mode.

42 TASCAM DR-05

AUTO LEVEL:

The recording level is controlled automatically to
increase or decrease the input level when the input
signals are too small or too large, respectively.
This mode is useful for recording at meetings. In
this mode, the recording level cannot be changed
manually.

LIMITER:

This prevents distortion of sounds when excessively
large input signals come in suddenly.

This mode is also suited for recording of live
performances with large volume changes.

In this mode, the recording level can be changed
manually during recording.

CAUTION

Distortion of sounds may occur when excessively large input
signals come in even if the LIMITER function is activated. In
such a case, lower the recording level or keep proper distance
between the unit and the source.

4–Recording

Recording

Before starting the following operation procedures,
level adjustment should be completed, and the
Home Screen should be open.

1 Press RECORD [º] button to begin recording

standby.

The screen shows the recording file name, the
input source, the recording audio file type and
sampling frequency. Please confirm that these
are as desired before starting recording.

NOTE

If you have set the
to ON so that you can always monitor the input, a pop-up
appears that allows you to turn overdubbing ON or OFF. For
ordinary recording, select OFF and continue to step 2.

MONITOR MIX

Screen’s INPUT item

2 To start recording, press the RECORD [º]

button again.

When recording starts, the REC indicator lights
continuously, and the display shows the elapsed
recording time and the remaining recording
time.

3 Press the (HOME) [ª] button to end

recording and create the audio file.

To pause recording, press the RECORD

[º] button. Press the RECORD [º] button
again to restart recording in the same track.

If you press the (HOME) [ª]button
after pausing a recorded audio file up to
the moment that you paused recording is
created.

NOTE

To avoid accidental recording of the noise from pressing the

TASCAM DR-05 43

4–Recording

RECORD [º] button, the start of recording is delayed by 0.3
second (fixed) after the RECORD [º] button is pressed. (REC

DELAY)

CAUTION

Noise may occur when recording with a microphone if
the unit is too close to the AC adaptor. In such a case, keep
sufficient distance between the AC adaptor and the unit.

Recording playback and input sounds together (overdubbing)

By overdubbing, you can play an instrument or sing
as you play back a saved track and mix and record
both sounds in a new le.

NOTE

• You cannot overdub if input monitoring is OFF.

• The prerecording function is disabled if the input monitor
is ON for overdubbing.

• Overdub recording is not possible when using the AUTO
REC function.

44 TASCAM DR-05

• When overdub recording, you cannot start new files
manually.

• You cannot pause during overdub recording. (You
cannot use the RECORD [º] button.)

• The sampling frequency of the playback file is preserved
regardless of the sampling frequency setting for overdub
recording.

• You cannot make an mp3 file when overdubbing a WAV
file with a sampling frequency of 96kHz.

Select the file you want to overdub

1 Use the  and ¯ buttons and the

BROWSE

want to overdub.

NOTE

See “5–Working with Files and Folders (BROWSE screen)” on
page 59 for selecting files using the BROWSE screen.

screen to select that files that you

4–Recording

Selecting file format

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

SETTING

REC SETTING

3 Use the + or − button to select

press the ¯ or Á button.

4 Set the file format with the + or − button.

5 Press the (HOME) [ª] button to return to

the Home Screen.

, and press the Á button.

screen appears.

MENU

REC

FORMAT

, and

Simultaneous listening to playback and input sound (Monitor Mix)

This allows you to listen to playback and input
sound at the same time (Monitor Mix). You can use
a recorded (or copied from a computer) audio track
for instrument practice or karaoke.

CAUTION

The prerecording function is disabled if the “MONITOR MIX” is
“ON”

.

1

Press the MENU button to open the

2 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button to open the
submenu.

3 Use the + or − button to select

MIX

, and press the Á button.

MONITOR MIX

screen appears.

MENU

screen.

OTHERS

MONITOR

, and

OTHERS

TASCAM DR-05 45

4–Recording

4 Use the + or − button to select

press the ¯ or Á button.

5 Use the + or - button to select ON.

(Default:

Monitoring of input sound is now enabled.

6 Press the  button to highlight the item.
7 Use the + or − button to select

and press the ¯ or Á button.

8 Use the + or - button to adjust the playback

volume level in a range from 0 to 20.

9 When finished, press

button to return to the Home Screen.

OFF

)

the (HOME) [ª]

INPUT

, and

PB INPUT

,

46 TASCAM DR-05

NOTE

You cannot change the MONITOR MIX setting during
recording or when in recording standby.

TIP

By making the above settings, in addition to overdubbing,
you can use a recorded (or copied) audio track for instrument
practice or karaoke.

Adjusting the input level (simple adjustment)

If Monitor Mix is enabled (
the

MONITOR MIX

adjusted in a simple way in the Quick menu screen.

NOTE

The level meters are designed to be hidden from the Quick
menu screen, so you cannot use them when you make
adjustments.

1 Press the QUICK button while the Home

Screen is open during playback or when
stopped.

INPUT

screen), the input level can be

is enabled in

4–Recording

The Quick menu screen appears.

2 While listening to the input sound, use the

 or ¯ button to adjust the input level.

When the  or ¯ button is pressed, a
pull-up window showing input level settings
appears in the display.

CAUTION

• If the Monitor Mix function is disabled, the pull-up window

will not appear when pressing the  or¯ button.

• When distortion of sound is about to occur as the input
sound level is increased, the PEAK indicator on the upper left
above the display will be turned on. Adjust the input level for
recording so as not to allow the PEAK indicator to be turned
on.

NOTE

When input monitoring is ON and during overdub recording,

the PEAK indicator lights when the combined input and
playback signals become higher than the set level.

Start the overdubbing

1 Press the RECORD [º] button to set the unit

to record standby.

The overdubbing ON/OFF pop-up appears.

The recording file name, input source, recording
audio file type and sampling frequency also
appear so that you can confirm them before you
start recording.

2 Use the + or - button to select ON from the

overdubbing ON/OFF pop-up.

TASCAM DR-05 47

4–Recording

3 Press the RECORD [º] button to start

overdubbing.

When recording starts, the REC indicator
lights and the display shows the elapsed and
remaining recording times.

The following error message appears if the
selected file cannot be played back.

4 To stop recording, press the (HOME)[ª]

button.

48 TASCAM DR-05

Recording automatically (AUTO REC)

The unit starts and pauses recording, renews les,
and sets marks automatically depending on the
input signal level.

This function allows the unit to respond to input
sound levels and start and pause recording, as well
as set marks and create new les, for example.

1 Press MENU to open the Menu Screen.

2 Use the + or - button to select

and press the Á button.

REC SETTING

3 Use the + or - button to select the

press the ¯ button or Á button.

screen appears.

REC SETTING

MODE

and

,

4

Use the + or - button to set the “AUTO REC”
setting.

OFF

(Default): Off

REC

: Records and pauses automatically

MARK

: Sets marks automatically during

recording

5 Press the  button to select the other

item.

6 Use the + or - button to select

LEVEL

and

press the ¯ button or Á button.

7 Use the + or - button to select the level that

signal is judged to have been input when it

4–Recording

exceeds this level.

Set the value to one of the following selection.

-6dB/-12dB

8 Press the (HOME)[ª] button to return to

the Home Screen.

9 Press the RECORD [º] button to put the unit

into recording standby.

Recording starts automatically when the input
signal exceeds the

10 The recording mode changes according to

the setting of the

REC

:

If the input signal level falls below the standard
level for more than five seconds, which is set
on

LEVEL

standby. When the input signal level becomes
higher than the standard level, the unit restarts
recording on a new file.

MARK

If the input signal level falls below the standard
level for more than five seconds, which is set

(default)/

-24dB/-48dB

LEVEL

.

MODE

.

, the unit goes into in recording

:

TASCAM DR-05 49

4–Recording

on

LEVEL

signal level becomes higher than the standard
level again.

11 Press the (HOME)[ª] button to stop

automatic recording.

TIP

By using this in combination with the
you can record events without losing the beginnings of
sounds.

CAUTION

• Overdub recording is not possible when using the

REC

• Self-timer function is not possible when using the

REC

50 TASCAM DR-05

, the unit adds marks when the input

PRE REC

function.

function.

function,

AUTO

AUTO

Creating and changeover to a new file during continued recording (Track incrementing)

You can manually or automatically split a recording
by creating a new le. (Track incrementing)

Manual track incrementation during recording

You can manually split a recording by creating a
new le.

1 Press the QUICK button while recording.

NOTE

When new files are created, incremental numbers are added
to the end of each file name.

CAUTION

• A new file cannot be created if the total number of files
and folders would exceed 5000.

• Files shorter than two seconds cannot be created.

4–Recording

• If the name of a newly created file would be the same as
that of an existing file, the number will be incremented
until the new file has a unique name.

• Track incrementing is not possible when overdub recording.

Automatic track incrementation by file size

Without pausing recording, a new le can be
created automatically during recording when a le
size set in advance is exceeded.

1 Press the MENU button to open the MENU

Screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

SETTING

REC SETTING

, and press the Á button.

screen appears.

REC

3 Use the + or − button to select

press the ¯ or Á button.

Use the + or − button to set the maximum

file size at which track incrementing takes
place, by selecting (highlighting) from the
following:

64M/128M/256M/512 M/1G/2G

4 Press the (HOME) [ª] button to return to

the Home Screen.

CAUTION

A new file cannot be created if the total number of files and
folders would exceed 5000.

NOTE

For the same file size, the possible recording time differs
depending on the file type selected. Furthermore, if the
recording time is 24 hours or more, this will be displayed as
23:59:59.

SIZE

, and

(default)

TASCAM DR-05 51

4–Recording

Mark function

Adding marks manually to a recording

You can manually add marks to a recording where
you want them.

Press the MARK button while recording to

add a mark.

Mark number pull-up appears.

NOTE

• Mark information is stored in the file with numbers
between 01–99. The maximum number of marks in a
file is 99.

• As the unit is compatible with the BWF format for WAV
files, marks added to a WAV file during recording are
stored in the file. Marks stored in the file are available

52 TASCAM DR-05

when playing back the file using a BWF compliant
software, etc.

Adding marks automatically to a recording

This function allows the unit to add marks
automatically using

Set the

MODE

screen.

See “Recording automatically (AUTO REC)” on
page 48.

AUTO REC

to

MARK

on the

.

AUTO REC

4–Recording

Moving to a mark position

You can move to marks in the currently selected le
when paused and during playback.

You can use this function to identify points to create
shortcuts to the beginning of songs, for example.

Press the  or ¯ button while pressing

and holding the MARK button during
playback or when stopped.

NOTE

You cannot move to a mark in a different file.

Recording the moment before pushing RECORD (PRE REC)

By using prerecording, when the unit is in recording
standby you can record up to two seconds of the
signal input before the RECORD [º] button is
pushed to start recording.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

SETTING

3 Use the + or − button to select

press the ¯ or Á button.

4 Use the + or − button to select ON.

5 Press the (HOME) [ª] button to return to

the Home Screen.

, and press the Á button.

MENU

REC

PRE REC

TASCAM DR-05 53

, and

4–Recording

NOTE

• If the amount of time in record standby is less than two
seconds, the sound for that amount of time is recorded.

• You cannot use the PRE REC function with overdub
recording. The prerecording function is disabled when
you record using overdubbing.

TIP

By using this in combination with the AUTO REC function,
you can record events without losing the beginnings of
sounds.

54 TASCAM DR-05

Self-timer function

Like a camera, the unit has a self-timer to trigger the
start of recording after a set period of time.

1

Press RECORD [º] button when stopped
or playing back to set the unit in recording
standby, and press the PB CONT button.

2 The self-timer icon appears in the recorder

status screen, and time is shown on the right.

Each time you press the PB CONT button, the

setting changes as follows:

OFF (Default) œ 5S (5 seconds) œ 10S (10
seconds) œ OFF

4–Recording

3 Set the time period, and press the

RECORD[º] or Á button.

Recording will start after the set time period.

NOTE

• This function cannot be used when recording is paused

in the middle of recording.

• Self-timer function is not possible when using the AUTO

REC function.

Using the AUTO TONE function

The AUTO TONE function can be used to
automatically insert a tone signal whenever
recording starts and stops.

When connecting this unit to a digital SLR camera,
for example, connect the attenuator cable included
in the AK-DR11C accessory kit (sold separately) to
the /LINE OUT jack on the left side of the unit
and the external mic input jack of the camera. If the
auto tone function is used when connected, the
same tone signal will be recorded to the les on

both units. These tones can be used as guides when
synchronizing the les in video editing software.

Digital SLR camera

External mic input jack

TASCAM DR-05 55

4–Recording

Setting the AUTO TONE function

1. Press the MENU button to open the
screen.

2. Use the + and − buttons to select the

SETTING

open the

3. Use the + and − buttons to select the

TONE

4. Use the + and − buttons to set when tone
signals are inserted.

Options: OFF (default), HEAD (recording start
only), HEAD+TAIL (recording start and stop)

5. After completing the setting, press the
(HOME) [ª] button to return to the Home

Screen.

menu and press the Á button to

REC SETTING

item and press the ¯ or Á button.

screen.

56 TASCAM DR-05

MENU

REC

AUTO

Setting the AUTO TONE length

You can set the length of the AUTO TONE.

1. Press the MENU button to open the
screen.

2. Use the + and − buttons to select the

SETTING

open the

3. Use the + and − buttons to select the

SECS

4. Use the + and − buttons to set the tone
length.

Options: 0.5sec, 1sec (default), 2sec, 3sec

menu and press the Á button to

REC SETTING

item and press the ¯ or Á button.

screen.

MENU

REC

TONE

4–Recording

5. After completing the setting, press the

(HOME) [ª] button to return to the Home
Screen.

Adjusting the AUTO TONE volume

You can adjust the volume of the AUTO TONE.

1. Press the MENU button to open the
screen.

2. Use the + and − buttons to select the

SETTING

open the

3. Use the + and − buttons to select the

VOL

menu and press the Á button to

REC SETTING

item and press the ¯ or Á button.

screen.

MENU

REC

TONE

4. Use the + and − buttons to adjust the tone
volume.

Options: −12dB, −18dB (default), −24dB, −30dB,

−36dB

5. After completing the setting, press the
(HOME) [ª] button to return to the Home

Screen.

TASCAM DR-05 57

4–Recording

Recording duration

The table below shows the maximum recording time on microSD/microSDHC cards of dierent capacities
for dierent le formats for recording.

File format (recording setting)

44.1 kHz 1:41 3:22 6:44 13:28
48 kHz 1:33 3:06 6:12 12:24
96 kHz 0:46 1:33 3:06 6:12

44.1 kHz 1:07 2:15 4:30 9:00
48 kHz 1:02 2:04 4:08 8:16
96 kHz 0:31 1:02 2:04 4:08

WAV

(stereo)

MP3

(stereo/

mono)

16 bit

24 bit

32 kbps 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 74:32 149:04 298:08 596:16
64 kbps 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 37:16 72:32 149:04 298:08

96 kbps 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 24:50 49:40 99:20 198:40
128 kbps 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 18:38 37:16 74:32 149:04
192 kbps 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 12:25 24:50 49:40 99:20
256 kbps 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 9:19 18:37 37:16 74:32
320 kbps 44.1 kHz/48 kHz 7:27 14:54 29:48 59:36

• The recording times shown above are estimates. They might differ depending on the microSD/microSDHC card in use.

• The recording times shown above are not continuous recording times, but rather they are the total possible recording times
for the microSD/microSDHC card.

• If recorded in mono in WAV files, the maximum recording time will be double the figures above.

58 TASCAM DR-05

microSD/microSDHC card capacity (hours:minutes)

1 GB 2 GB 4 GB 8 GB

5–Working with Files and Folders (BROWSE screen)

On the

BROWSE

the Music Folder, which contains the audio les on the
microSD card that you can use with the DR-05. On this
screen, you can also play and erase selected audio les,
create folders, add tracks to the playlist and so on. (See
“Playlist” on page 68.)

TIP

If you connect the DR-05 with a computer by USB, or mount
the microSD card on a computer using a card reader or
other input, you can change the folder structure within the

MUSIC

would the contents of a hard drive. Furthermore, you can
change file names from the computer.

To open the
to open the
select

BROWSE

Screen, you can view the contents of

Folder and erase files from the computer as you

BROWSE
MENU

Screen, press the MENU button

screen. Use the + or − button to

and press the Á button.

The contents of the folder that contains the le
that was selected on the Home Screen before the

BROWSE

Screen was opened appears on the display.

Screen navigation

On the

BROWSE

appear in a hierarchical structure much like they
would appear on a computer. On the DR-05, folders
can only be used to two levels.

• Use the + or − button to select files and folders.

• When a folder is selected, press the ¯ button

to show the contents of that folder.

• When a file or folder is selected, press the Â

button to exit the currently open folder and go
to a higher level in the folder structure.

• When a file or folder is selected, press the QUICK
button to open the pop-up window.

• When a file is selected, press the Á button to
return to the Home Screen and play the file.
This folder that contains this file becomes the
current folder, and new recorded file will be

Screen, folders and music les

TASCAM DR-05 59

5–Working with Files and Folders

saved in this folder. If the playback area has been
set to

FOLDER

playback area.

• When a folder is selected, press the Á button

to return to the Home Screen. The first file in the
folder (shown at the top of the file list) will be
played.
This folder becomes the current folder, and
new recorded files will be saved in this folder.
Regardless of the previous setting, the playback
area is set to

the new playback area.

, this folder becomes the new

FOLDER

, and this folder becomes

60 TASCAM DR-05

Icons on the BROWSE screen

The meanings of icons that appear on the
Screen are as follows.

Root Music Folder (

The

MUSIC

in the hierarchy shown on the

This icon appears before the names of music les.

This icon shows folders that contain subfolders.

This icon shows folders that do not contain
subfolders.

The contents of the folder marked with this icon
currently appear on this screen.

Folder is the highest (root) level folder

Audio le

Plus folder

Plain folder

Open folder

MUSIC

)

BROWSE

BROWSE

Screen.

5–Working with Files and Folders

File operations

Select the desired audio le on the
and press the QUICK button to open the pop-up
window that is shown below.

Use the + or − button to select the item you want
from the following list and press Á button to
execute it.

INFO

Information (date/time, size) about the selected
le appears. Press the Á button again or press the

(HOME) [ª] button to return to the

screen.

BROWSE

BROWSE

Screen

ADD LIST

Adds the selected le to the playlist. (See “Playlist” on
page 68.)

DELETE

A message appears to conrm that you want to
delete the le. Press the Á button to erase the
le and the (HOME) [ª] button to cancel the
deletion operation.

CANCEL

The operation for the selected (highlighted) le is
canceled, and the pop-up menu is closed.

NOTE

The pop-up menu can also be closed by pressing the QUICK
button.

TASCAM DR-05 61

5–Working with Files and Folders

Folder operations

Select the desired folder on the
and press the QUICK button to open the pop-up
window that is shown below.

Use the + or − button to select the item you want
from the following list and press the Á button to
execute it.

SELECT

Returns to the Home Screen and selects the rst
le in the folder. Regardless of the previous setting,
the playback area is set to
becomes the new playback area. When recording,
les are created in this folder.

62 TASCAM DR-05

BROWSE

FOLDER

Screen

, and this folder

ALL DEL

A pop-up message appears to conrm that you
want to delete all the les in the selected folder at
once.

Press the Á button to erase the les or press the

(HOME) [ª] button to cancel.

NOTE

You cannot erase read-only files and files that are not
recognized by this unit.

CANCEL

The operation for the selected (highlighted) le is
canceled, and the pop-up menu is closed.

NOTE

The pop-up menu can also be closed by pressing the QUICK
button.

5–Working with Files and Folders

Creating a new folder

In the le list,

Select (highlight)
button. A pop-up appears to conrm that you want
to create a new folder.

Press the Á button to create a new folder or press
the (HOME) [ª] button to cancel.

Note that the unit supports only a two-level folder
structure, and accordingly
exist in the second-level folders.

A newly created folder becomes the current one,
and new recorded les are saved in this folder. If the

NEW FOLDER

NEW FOLDER

appears at the bottom.

, and press the Á

NEW FOLDER

does not

playback area has been set to
becomes the playback area.

FOLDER

TASCAM DR-05 63

, this folder

6–Playback

On the Home Screen, you can use the  and

¯ buttons to select the playback track. The les

that you can select are determined by the playback
area setting.

Limiting the playback area makes track selection
easier when you have numerous recorded and
copied tracks on the microSD card.

On the

PLAY SETTING

all les, the current folder or the playlist as the
playback area. You can also use the
Screen to set a folder as the playback area.

TIP

On the

BROWSE

setting, you can select any file on the card that you want.

Screen, regardless of the playback area

Screen, you can select

BROWSE

Adjusting playback volume

The volume of output through the built-in speaker
or the /LINE OUT connector can be adjusted
using the + or − button while the Home Screen is
shown.

64 TASCAM DR-05

A pull-up volume indicator appears.

Setting the playback area (AREA)

Set the playback area for repeat and ordinary
playback on the

1 Press the MENU button to open the

Screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

SETTING

PLAY SETTING

and press the Á button.

screen.

PLAY

MENU

3 Use the + or − button to select (highlight)

AREA, and press the ¯ or Á button.

4 Use the + or − button to set the playback

area.

ALL FILES

Set the playback area as all les in the Music
Folder on the microSD card.

FOLDER (default)

Set the playback area as all the les in the
currently selected folder.

PLAYLIST

Set the playback area as the tracks in the
playlist. (See “Playlist” on page 68.)

If there is no playlist dened, a
pop-up appears.

No PLAYLIST

6–Playback

5 Press the (HOME) [ª] button to return to

the Home Screen.

NOTE

The current playback area setting appears in the lower left of
the Home Screen.

Playback area indication

TASCAM DR-05 65

6–Playback

Selecting a folder for the playback area (1)

Regardless of the current playback area, if you
select a folder on the
area changes to the selected folder.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button.

BROWSE

A file list of the folder that contains the file
selected in the Home Screen is displayed.

3 Use the  or ¯ button to select a folder

level, and use the + or − button to select a
folder.

screen appears.

66 TASCAM DR-05

BROWSE

Screen, the playback

MENU

BROWSE

, and

For an explanation of how to use the Browse
Screen, see “Screen navigation” on page 59.

4 Press the QUICK button to open the following

pop-up window.

5 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button.

The display returns to the Home Screen. The rst le in
the folder is selected, and the unit is stopped.

Regardless of the previous setting, the playback
area is set to
the playback area. This folder becomes the current
folder, and new recorded les will be saved in this
folder.

FOLDER

, and this folder becomes

SELECT

, and

6–Playback

Selecting a folder for the playback area (2)

When the playback area is set to
select a le on the
contains the selected le becomes the playback
area.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button.

BROWSE

A file list of the folder that contains the file
selected in the Home Screen is displayed.

3 Use the  or ¯ button to select a folder

level, and use the + or − button to select the
folder that contains the track (file) you want

BROWSE

screen appears.

FOLDER

Screen, the folder that

, if you

MENU

BROWSE

, and

to play.

For an explanation of how to use the
Screen, see “Screen navigation” on page 59.

4 Press the ¯ button.

5 Use the + or − button to select the desired

file.

6 Press the Á button.

The display returns to the Home Screen, and the
selected track starts playing.

This folder becomes the current folder, and
new recorded les will be saved in this folder.
In addition, the folder that contains this track
becomes the playback area regardless of the
playback area folder set previously.

BROWSE

TASCAM DR-05 67

6–Playback

Playlist

You can make a list of tracks for playback (playlist).
On the Play Setting Screen if you select
for the

AREA

tracks in your playlist.

item, you can set playback to just the

Adding tracks to the playlist

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button.

BROWSE

NOTE

For an explanation of how to use the
“Screen navigation” on page 59.

3 Use the + or − button to select the file you

want to add to the playlist, and press the
QUICK button.

68 TASCAM DR-05

screen appears.

PLAYLIST

BROWSE

BROWSE

MENU

, and

Screen, see

NOTE

For details about how to select the file, see “Screen
navigation” on page 59.

A pop-up window appears.

4 Use the + or - button to select

5 Press the Á button.

The track is added to the playlist and the popup
window closes.

6 Repeat steps 3, 4, and 5 as necessary to add

more tracks to the playlist. The tracks are
numbered in the order that they are added.

ADD LIST

.

Editing the playlist

You can view and edit the playlist you have made
on the

PLAYLIST

You can also use this screen to play tracks and to
edit the playlist.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button.

BROWSE

3 Use the  button to move to the top folder

level.

4 Use the + or − button to select

and press the ¯ button.

PLAYLIST

screen.

screen appears.

screen appears.

MENU

BROWSE

PLAYLIST

, and

,

6–Playback

5 Use the + or − button to select the file you

want to edit, and press the QUICK button.

A pop-up window appears.

6 Use the + or − button to select an item, and

press the Á button to cause the unit to work
as follows.

ALL CLR

A conrmation message appears to conrm that
you want to remove all the les from the playlist.
Press the Á button to remove all the les or the

(HOME) [ª] button to cancel this operation.

For this operation, it does not matter which track
you select in step 5. All the les are removed from

TASCAM DR-05 69

6–Playback

the playlist, but they are not erased from the
microSD card.

DELETE

Remove the selected track from the playlist.

The le is removed from the playlist, but it is not
erased from the microSD card.

MOVE

Select this to change the order of tracks in the
playlist.

In addition to the le name, the track number also
appears highlighted in inverse.

• Use the + or − button to move the selected track
to a different position in the playlist.

70 TASCAM DR-05

In the above example, the 4th track has been
moved to the 3rd track position.

• Press

CANCEL

The operation for the selected le is canceled.

the Á button

The display returns to the

.

PLAYLIST

screen.

6–Playback

Selecting files for playback (skip)

When the Home Screen is open, press the  and

¯ buttons to select the le for playback.

If you press the  button when the playback
position is located at the middle of a le, it will
return to the beginning of that le. If you press the

 button when located at the beginning of a

le, the playback position will skip to the beginning
of the previous le.

If you press the ¯ button when located at
the beginning of or middle of a le, the playback
position will skip to the beginning of the next le.

NOTE

• Only files in the playback area that is currently set can be

selected for playback.

• The track name, file number and other file information

for the currently playing track appear on the display.

• The ª icon appears on the display when playback

is stopped at the beginning a track, and the π icon
appears when playback is stopped in the middle of a
track (paused).

• When the IN and OUT points are set in the file, pressing

the  or¯ button skips to those points. Press the
button repeatedly until the file you want is selected.

Playback

When the Home Screen is open and playback

is stopped, press the Á button to start
playback.

NOTE

• Files in the playback area can be played.

• You can also choose files for playback by name on the

BROWSE

Pausing

When the Home Screen is open and a track

is playing back, press the (HOME) [ª]
button to pause playback at the current
position. (PAUSE)

Press the Á button again to restart playback

from that position.

screen.

TASCAM DR-05 71

6–Playback

Stopping

When the Home Screen is open and a track

is playing back, press the (HOME) [ª]
button to pause playback, and press the

(HOME) [ª] button to return to the beginning
of the file. (STOP)

Rewinding and fast-forwarding (search)

When the Home Screen is open and a track

is playing back or stopped, press and hold
the  or ¯ button to rewind or fast-

forward and search the playback track.

NOTE

Press and hold the  or ¯ button to accelerate the
search speed.

72 TASCAM DR-05

Repeat playback (REPEAT)

You can repeatedly playback one le or multiple
les within a designated area.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

SETTING

PLAY SETTING

3 Use the + or − button to select

press the ¯ or Á button.

4 Use the + or − button to select a repeat mode.

, and press the Á button.

screen appears.

PLAY

REPEAT

MENU

, and

6–Playback

CONTINUOUS

All tracks in the playback area are played in
sequence one time. (This setting is the ordinary
playback mode.)

SINGLE

The selected track is played once without
repeating. The icon appears on the Home
Screen.

1 REPEAT

The current track is played repeatedly. The
icon appears on the Home Screen.

ALL REPEAT

All tracks in the selected playback area are
played back repeatedly. The icon appears
on the Home Screen.

NOTE

If you start loop playback, the REPEAT item automatically
switches to OFF if it is in a different mode.

5 Press the (HOME) [ª] button to return to

the Home Screen.

(default):

:

:

:

Special Playback Control Functions

The unit has some special playback control
functions. For example, you can playback a selected
section of a track repeatedly or change the tempo
of music without changing the pitch. You can also
enhance the perceived overall sound pressure
for comfortable listening when the playback is
indiscernible.

These playback control functions serve for eective
practice on musical instruments and analysis of
musical passages.

TASCAM DR-05 73

6–Playback

Playback Control Screen

Use the Playback Control screen to set the playback
control functions.

While the Home Screen is open when stopped or
playing back, press the PB CONT button to open
the Playback Control screen.

This screen can be used to make settings for the
playback speed and loop playback.

After you nish making settings on this screen,
press

the

CONT button) to return to the Home Screen.

74 TASCAM DR-05

(HOME) [ª] button (or press the PB

Repeated Playback of Selection (Loop Playback)

With this function, you can continuously repeat
(loop) the playback of a selection that you make.

1 While the Home Screen is open when stopped

or playing back, press the PB CONT button to
open the Playback Control screen.

2 Press the Á button to start playback, and

press the MARK button at the start point of
the section that you want to play repeatedly.
This position is set as IN (start) point. Then,

appears at the corresponding point under

the playback indicator bar.

6–Playback

3 Press the MARK button at the end point of

the section that you want to play repeatedly.
This position is set as OUT (end) point, and
loop playback of the section between the IN
and OUT points starts. Then, appears at
the corresponding point under the playback
indicator bar.

During loop playback the indicator also
appears.

Press the PB CONT button to return to the
Home Screen while maintaining the I/O and
loop settings effective. Even after returning to
the Home Screen, the icon continue to be
shown, along with the and marks shown
at the points corresponding to the IN and OUT
points under the playback indicator bar.

NOTE

• The pop-up message of “I/O Too Short” appears if the
section between the IN and OUT points is too short. Set
them again. The section should be 1 second or longer.

• Press the MARK button again to clear the IN and OUT
points.

• To stop loop playback, press the MENU button when
the Playback Control screen is open. Press the MENU
button again to start loop playback between the set IN
and OUT points.

• You cannot set the IN and OUT points in different files.

• The previous IN and OUT point settings are lost when you
set the IN point on a different file.

• Accurate assignment of IN and OUT points is not always
possible for variable bit rate (VBR) MP3 files.

TASCAM DR-05 75

6–Playback

Changing the playback speed (VSA)

The unit features the VSA (Variable Speed Audition)
function that changes the playback speed without
changing its pitch.

CAUTION

The VSA function cannot be effective for files recorded with a
sampling frequency of 96kHz, and will be shown in
the Home Screen. However, the setting of playback speed
can be changed. To apply the adjustment of playback speed,
select a file recorded with a sampling frequency of 44.1 kHz
or 48 kHz by using the  or¯ button.

Press the + or – button after opening the Playback
Control screen to increase or decrease the playback
speed.

76 TASCAM DR-05

The VSA function can change the playback speed in
the range from 0.5 (50%) to 1.5 (150%) times (in 0.1
increments) the normal speed.

Press the PB CONT button to the Home Screen
while maintaining the set playback speed eective.
The or icon appears if the playback
speed is set to a value larger or smaller than 1.0,
respectively.

6–Playback

Using the playback equalizer (PLAY EQ)

You can choose from dierent sound types to
enhance the listenability (PLAY EQ: playback
equalizer).

Set the playback equalizer in the
screen.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

SETTING

PLAY SETTING

3 Use the + or − button to select

press the ¯ or Á button.

4 Use the + or − button to set the equalizer.

, and press the Á button.

screen appears.

PLAY SETTING

MENU

PLAY

PLAY EQ

, and

TREBLE, MIDDLE, and BASS indicate that
adjustment in the high, middle, or low
frequency range is enabled, and + and –
indicate that the sound level in that range is
increased or decreased, respectively.

Options:

TREBLE -, MIDDLE +, MIDDLE -, BASS
+, BASS -

5 When finished, press

button to return to the Home Screen.

OFF

(factory setting),

the (HOME) [ª]

TREBLE +,

TASCAM DR-05 77

6–Playback

Moving back a few seconds for replay (jump-back playback)

Press the Á button during playback to move back
a few seconds (adjustable) and restart playback.
(Jump-back playback).

If you nd a favorite passage of music or lyrics
during playback, press the Playback button to go
back a few seconds and replay that passage.

The jump-back time is set as a

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

SETTING

PLAY SETTING

, and press the Á button.

screen appears.

78 TASCAM DR-05

JUMPBACK

PLAY

setting.

MENU

3 Use the + or − button to select

and press the ¯ or Á button.

4 Use the + or − button to set the jump-back

time.

The setting options include 1 sec (1 second) to
10 sec (10 seconds) in increments of 1 second,
and 20 sec (20 seconds), and 30 sec (30 seconds)
(default: 3 sec).

5 When finished, press

button to return to the Home Screen.

the (HOME) [ª]

JUMPBACK

,

7-Quick Operations

Features of the QUICK button

The QUICK button serves for the following purposes.

• While the Home Screen is open and when stopped or
paused, opens the Quick menu screen for deletion,
division, and level alignment (enhancing the
perceived overall sound pressure) of the current track.
During playback, the Quick menu screen appears only
for level alignment.

• While the Home Screen is open during recording
standby, the Quick menu screen appears for level
control setting.

• While the Home Screen is open during recording,
track increment occurs to stop recording on the
current file and continue recording on a new file. (See
“Manual track incrementation during recording” on
page 50.)
The Quick menu screen will not appear in this case.

• A pop-up menu to work with a selected file or folder
appears if the BROWSE screen or the PLAYLIST
screen is open.

• Switches CALIB and INPUT LEVEL on the

TUNER screen.

NOTE

The QUICK button is disabled if the MENU screen, OTHERS submenu,
REC SETUP screen, or a settings screen is open for various settings.

Actions of the QUICK button for dierent screens
and states are as follows.

Screen State Action

Home

Playback Control Opens Quick menu only for

BROWSE, PLAYL­IST
TUNER

MENU
OTHERS

Other settings
screens

Stop
Pause

Playback Opens Quick menu only for

Recording
Standby

Recording Creates a new le for continued

screen,

submenu,

Opens Quick menu for deletion,
division, and level alignment

level alignment
Opens Quick menu for level

control

recording (track increment)

level alignment
Opens pop-up menu for working

with selected le (or folder)

Switches CALIB and INPUT

LEVEL

—

TASCAM DR-05 79

7-Quick Operations

Quick menu screen

To show the Quick menu screen, press the QUICK
button while the Home Screen is open. The contents
of this screen depend on the state of the unit at the
time when the QUICK button is pressed.

• When stopped with the Home Screen open
Deletion, division, and level alignment of the
current track can be selected.

DELETE

“Deleting the selected le (Quick Delete)” on
page 82.)

DIVIDE

(See “Dividing the selected le (DIVIDE)” on page

83.)

LEVEL ALIGN

sound pressure can be increased to enhance
listenability.
(See “Increasing the perceived overall sound

80 TASCAM DR-05

: The current track can be deleted. (See

: The current track can be divided.

: The perceived overall

pressure to enhance listenability (Level
Alignment)” on page 84.)

• During playback with the Home Screen open,

or while the Playback Control screen is open

Only level alignment can be selected.

• During recording standby with the Home

Screen open

Level control can be selected.

Select

LEVEL CTRL

open the level control setting pop-up window.

, and press the Á button to

In this window, you can choose from the
following three level control options.

PEAK REDUCTION

:
When the input sound is too large, the recording
volume is decreased automatically to an
appropriate level.

AUTO LEVEL

:
When the input sound is too small or too large,
the recording volume is increased or decreased,
respectively, automatically to an appropriate
level.

LIMITER

:
This prevents distortion of sound due to sudden
excessive input.

For details of the level control function, see
“Using the Level Control Function” on page 41.

7-Quick Operations

When Monitor Mix is enabled, the input level can
be adjusted in a simple way using the  or ¯
button.

Press the  or ¯ button to open the input
level setting pull-up window. Adjust the input level
while checking the input sound. (See “Adjusting the
input level” on page 39.)

NOTE

• This is a simple adjustment function for Monitor Mix.
During this adjustment, the level meters are hidden
and the input level for recording cannot be adjusted
accurately. Accurate adjustments should be made when
in recording standby. (See See “Adjusting the input level”
on page 39.)

• The input level cannot be changed if the level control
function is set to

AUTO LEVEL

.

TASCAM DR-05 81

7-Quick Operations

Closing the Quick menu screen

Press the QUICK button to close the Quick menu
screen.

Deleting the selected file (Quick Delete)

The currently selected le can be deleted without
using the

1 T

2 Open the Quick menu screen by pressing the

3 Use the + or − button to select

82 TASCAM DR-05

BROWSE

screen.

o delete a file, select it using the  or ¯

button or the

QUICK button while the Home Screen is open
when stopped.

BROWSE

screen.

DELETE

.

4 Press the Á button. A confirmation screen

for file deletion appears.

Press the Á button to delete the file, or press

the (HOME) [ª] button to cancel the
deletion.

7-Quick Operations

Dividing the selected file (DIVIDE)

A recorded le can be divided into two at a
specied position.

1 Select a file to be divided using the  or

¯ button or the

2 While the Home Screen is open when

stopped, press the QUICK button to show the
Quick menu screen.

3 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button.

DIVIDE

4

Use the + or − button to select to specify the

screen appears.

BROWSE

screen.

DIVIDE

, and

position for file division, and press the RECORD
[º] button.

The following pop-up window appears.

5 Press the Á button to divide the file.

Or press
to the
file.

NOTE

• When the

the (HOME) [ª] button to return

DIVIDE

screen without dividing the

DIVIDE

screen is open, you can press the

Á button and set the divide position while playing the

track.

• When the
to pause/resume playback and press the  or ¯
button to move to the beginning or the end of the
track. Adjust the position for file division using the + or

− button. Press and hold the + or − button to move the
position continuously.

DIVIDE

screen is open, press the Á button

TASCAM DR-05 83

7-Quick Operations

• After dividing a file, two new files with ”_a” and ”_b” added
to the end of the original file name are created. For example
if the original filename is “DR0000_0000.wav” then the new
files will be named “DR0000_0000_a.wav” (the recording
before the division point) and “DR0000_0000_b.wav” (the
recording after the division point).

CAUTION

• MP3 files cannot be divided.

• If the microSD card has insufficient open space, division
might not be possible.

• Division is not possible if the file name would become
more than 200 characters long.

• Division is not possible if a file that already exists has the
same name as the name that would be given to a new
file created by division.

TIP

Add marks during recording at positions where you want to
divide a file. (See “Mark function” on page 52.)

84 TASCAM DR-05

Increasing the perceived overall sound pressure to enhance listenability (Level Alignment)

If the playback sound is very small and
indiscernible, the perceived overall sound pressure
can be increased to enhance listenability. (Level
Alignment)

1 While the Home Screen is open when stopped

or playing back, press the QUICK button to
open the Quick menu screen.

When stopped During playback

2

Use the + or − button to select
and press the Á button

3 A screen to enable/disable the level

alignment function appears.

4

Use the + or − button to select ON, and press
the Á button to enable the level alignment

function.
Or select

the level alignment function.

OFF

and press the Á button to disable

LEVEL ALIGN

.

7-Quick Operations

NOTE

The level alignment function may not be able to achieve
sufficient effect depending on the source of the sound
(example: a music file whose sound pressure has been
already adjusted).

TASCAM DR-05 85

8-Using the Effects

The DR-05 has built-in eects that can be applied to
the input signal during recording and practice. They
can also be applied to the output signal during
playback.

The icon appears as light letters on a dark
background.

Eects ON indication

Setting the effect

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button to open the
submenu.

3 Use the + or – button to select

86 TASCAM DR-05

MENU

OTHERS

OTHERS

EFFECT

, and

, and

press the Á button.

The

EFFECT

As shown in the above illustration, there are four
setting items on the

Set each item using the  or ¯ buttons
or + or - buttons.

EFFECT:

Use this to turn the effect on or off.

The default setting is

PRESET:

See the “Effects Preset List” on page 87 for
details about the preset effects.

screen appears.

EFFECT

OFF

.

screen.

8-Using the Effects

LEVEL:

Use this to change the output level of the preset
effect selected in the

Setting range: 0 -

PRESET

20

item.

SOURCE:

Use this to set whether the effect is applied to
the input signal (
(

OUTPUT

The default setting is

INPUT

) or the output signal

).

OUTPUT

.

4 Use the + or – button to select the desired

item and press the Á button or ¯ button
to access that item’s settings.

5 Use the + or – button to set the desired value.

6 Press the  button when you are done

making the setting to return to item selection
status.

7 Press

the (HOME) [ª] button to return to

the Home Screen.

CAUTION

When the sampling frequency is set to 96 kHz, or a WAV file
with a sampling frequency of 96 kHz is played, the built-in
effects do not work.

However, you can still set the built-in effects.

Effects Preset List

Preset name Eects

HALL 1 (Default)

HALL 2

ROOM

STUDIO

PLATE 1 This is a bright plate reverb.
PLATE 2 This is a warm plate reverb.

This is a bright reverb modeled
after a large hall-like space.

This is a warm reverb modeled
after a large hall-like space.

This reverb is modeled on a
small indoor space.

This reverb is modeled on a
studio-like space.

TASCAM DR-05 87

9-Tuning a Musical Instrument (Tuner)

TASCAM DR-05 has a built-in tuner. The unit
receives a sound from a musical instrument and
allows you to tune it accurately on the tuning meter
shown in the display.

Using the tuner

Setting the tuner

1 Press the MENU button to open the

screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button to open the
submenu.

3 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button.

TUNER

screen appears.

88 TASCAM DR-05

MENU

OTHERS

OTHERS

TUNER

, and

, and

The

TUNER

to set the fundamental frequency of the A. Press
the  or ¯ button to decrease or increase
the fundamental frequency.

Setting range: 435Hz - 445Hz (in 1Hz increments,
default: 440Hz)

NOTE

When the

screen contains the

TUNER

screen is open, you can press the

CALIB

option

Á button to reverse the screen orientation, making

it easier to tune using the built-in mic.

9-Tuning a Musical Instrument (Tuner)

Tuning a musical instrument

1 Open the TUNER screen, and sound a note

near the unit.

2

Tune the instrument so that the target pitch name
appears and the center of the tuner lights.

A bar appears on the left or right of the center
if the sound is lower or higher than the target
pitch. The bar becomes longer as the sound
shifts away from the target pitch.

Adjusting the input level for tuning

1 Press the QUICK button to switch CALIB to INPUT

LEVEL in the bottom of the TUNER

2 Use the  or ¯ button to adjust the

input level. The pull-up display appears to
show the input level setting. See “Manually
adjusting the input level” on page 39 for
the adjustment operation.

screen.

TASCAM DR-05 89

10–Connecting with a Computer

By connecting this unit with a computer using
the USB cable, you can transfer audio les on the
microSD card in the unit to a computer, as well as
transfer audio les on the computer to the microSD
card in the unit.

This unit can handle audio les of the following
formats.

MP3: 32k-320kbps, 44.1k/48kHz

WAV: 44.1k/48k/96kHz, 16/24 bit

PC

USB (mini B)

NOTE

Instead of using USB to connect the DR-05 and a computer,
you can also conduct the same operations by removing the
microSD card from the DR-05 and connecting it directly to a

90 TASCAM DR-05

computer that has a built-in microSD card slot or by using a
card reader.

CAUTION

• You cannot use this unit’s other functions when it is
connected to a computer by USB.

• The unit should be connected directly with the computer
instead of via a USB hub.

When the unit is connected through USB after
being turned on, or when the unit is turned on after
being connecting through USB, the
screen appears to choose between bus power
supply or data transmission through USB.

Use the + or − button to select
press the Á button to connect the unit with the
computer for data transmission. The message of
“

USB connected

” appears in the display.

USB SELECT

STORAGE

, and

10–Connecting with a Computer

Transferring files to a computer

Make sure that the microSD card is inserted
properly.

NOTE

If the USB cable is connected to the unit when batteries has
been installed, the power is supplied from the USB port (USB
bus power prioritized).

If a microSD card is not properly inserted before
making the USB connection, “
appears on the screen.

If you open the “Computer” directory, this unit will
appear as an external drive named “DR-05”.

Can't Save Data

1 Click the “

screen to show the “
folders.

2 Open the “

the files that you want to transfer to the
computer to destinations of your choice.

”

DR-05

” drive on the computer

MUSIC

MUSIC

” folder and drag and drop

” and “

UTILITY

TASCAM DR-05 91

”

10–Connecting with a Computer

Transferring files from a computer

1 Click the “

screen to show the “
folders.

2 Drag and drop files on the computer that you

want to transfer to the unit to the “
folder.

TIP

• You can manage the

• You can create subfolders in the
the second level for use with this unit. The DR-05 cannot
recognize subfolders and audio files on the third level or
below.

• Since you can set the DR-05 to only play the contents of a
specific folder, you can organize tracks into genres, artists
or other categories as you like.

• If you name the subfolders and music tracks, these
names will appear on the screen of this unit.

92 TASCAM DR-05

DR-05

” drive on the computer

MUSIC

MUSIC

folder from the computer.

” and “

MUSIC

UTILITY

MUSIC

folder up to

”

”

Disconnecting from a computer

Before disconnecting the USB cable, use the proper
procedures for your computer to unmount the “DR­05” (as an external drive).
The power turns o after disconnecting the USB
cable.

See the computer’s operation manual for
instructions about how to unmount an external
drive.

11–Settings and Information

Viewing File Information

Use the Information Screen to view various types of
information about your DR-05.

1

Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button to open the
submenu.

3 Use the + or - button to select

and press the Á button.

The

INFORMATION

three pages. Use the + or − button to move through
the pages.

File information page (FILE)

Shows information about the currently loaded le.

Card information page (CARD)

Shows the use status of the currently inserted
microSD card

System information page (SYSTEM)

Shows the unit’s system setting information and
rmware version

screen contains the following

OTHERS

OTHERS

INFORMATION

, and

File information page

The

FILE

currently selected le.

,

WAV or MP3

Shows the audio le type.
For WAV les, bit length, stereo/mono, and
sampling frequency (Hz) also appear.
For MP3 les, the bit rate (kbps), CBR (constant bit
rate) or VBR (variable bit rate) type, and sampling
frequency (Hz) also appear.

TITLE

Shows the le name. If an MP3 le has ID3 tag title
information that information appears.

DATE

Date of le creation

SIZE

File size

page shows information about the

TASCAM DR-05 93

11–Settings and Information

Card information page

The CARD page shows the status of the currently
inserted microSD card.

TOTAL MUSIC

Shows the number of playable les contained by
the Music Folder.

TOTAL FOLDER

Shows the total number of folders in the Music
Folder.

TOTAL SIZE

Shows the total microSD card capacity.

REMAIN SIZE/USED SIZE

Shows the amount of unused/used capacity on the
microSD card.
Press the  or ¯ button to switch between

REMAIN SIZE

94 TASCAM DR-05

and

USED SIZE

.

System information page

The SYSTEM page shows information about the DR­05’s system settings and rmware version.

AUTO OFF

Shows the automatic power OFF setting.

BACKLIGHT

Shows the automatic backlight OFF setting.

BATTERY

Shows the battery type options.

System Ver.

Shows the system rmware version.

11–Settings and Information

System Settings and Formatting

From the
settings to optimize the device for your use
environment and other requirements. You can also
initialize the unit and format the microSD card.

1 Press the MENU button to open the

2 Use the + or − button to select

3 Use the + or - button to select

The following settings can be made for the items on
the

SYSTEM

screen.

press the Á button to open the
submenu.

press the Á button.

SYSTEM

SYSTEM

Screen, you can change various

SYSTEM

screen appears.

screen.

MENU

OTHERS

OTHERS

, and

, and

Use the  or ¯ button and the + or − button
to set each item.

Setting the automatic power saving function

You can use the
amount of time from when the unit last operated or
was used until the power turns o automatically.

Options:

30min

(factory setting)

AUTO PWR SAVE

OFF

(turned o),

item to set the

3min, 5min, 10min

,

Setting the backlight

Use

BACKLIGHT

automatically turns OFF after the last operation
when powered by the internal battery.

Options:

10 sec, 15 sec, 30 sec, ALWAYS

to set the time until the backlight

OFF

(turned o), 5

sec

(factory setting),

(always on)

TASCAM DR-05 95

11–Settings and Information

Adjusting the display contrast

Use

CONTRAST

Options: 1–20 (factory setting: 5)

to adjust the display contrast.

Setting the type of AA batteries

Use

BATTERY TYPE

batteries that you are using. This setting is used to
show the amount of remaining battery charge and
determine if the unit has enough power for normal
operation.

Values:

ALKAL

Ni-MH

(nickel-metal hydride batteries)

96 TASCAM DR-05

to set the type of the AA

(alkaline batteries, default),

Restoring the factory settings

Use the

INITIALIZE

settings of this unit to their factory settings.

1 Use the + or − button to select

and press the Á button to highlight

2 Press the Á button again to open a

confirmation pop-up window.

3 Press the Á button to initialize the unit.

Press (HOME) [ª] to cancel initialization.

item to restore the various

INITIALIZE

Exec

,

.

11–Settings and Information

Using QUICK FORMAT

Using

QUICK FORMAT

card and automatically creates new “
“

UTILITY

necessary to use the microSD card with the DR-05.

1 Use the + or − button to select

2 Press the Á button to open a pop-up

3 Press the Á button to execute the quick

” folders as well as the “dr-1.sys” le that is

FORMAT
Exec

confirmation window.

formatting, or press the (HOME) [ª]
button to cancel formatting.

, and press the Á button to highlight

.

erases all music les on the

MUSIC

QUICK

” and

Using FULL FORMAT

Use the

FULL FORMAT

the microSD card.

Full formatting checks the memory for errors
while formatting, so it takes more time than quick
formatting.

Using FULL FORMAT erases all music les on the
card and automatically creates new “MUSIC” and
“UTILITY” folders as well as the “dr-1.sys” le that is
necessary to use the

1 Use the + or − button to select

and press the Á button to highlight

2 Press the Á button to open a pop-up

confirmation window.

3 Press the Á button to execute the full

formatting, or press the (HOME) [ª]
button to cancel formatting.

item to completely format

micro

SD card with the DR-05.

FULL FORMAT

Exec

TASCAM DR-05 97

.

,

11–Settings and Information

CAUTION

When formatting a card, the unit should be operating on
AC power supplied through the PS-P515U adapter (sold
separately), USB bus power supplied from a computer, or
batteries with sufficient remaining power. If the power fails
during formatting, the formatting may not occur correctly.

Setting the format of file names

You can select the format of names given to les
recorded by this unit.

1

Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.

2 Use the + or − button to select

press the Á button to open the
submenu.

3 Use the + or − button to select

and press the Á button.

OTHERS

OTHERS

FILE NAME

98 TASCAM DR-05

, and

,

FILE NAME

Use the  or ¯ button and the + or − button
to set each item.

On this screen you can make the following settings
for each item.

screen appears.

File name format

The

TYPE

setting) or

WORD: When set to
used as the beginning of each le name.
Example: DR0000_0000.wav

DATE: The date is used as the le name (in yymmdd
format).
Example: 110101_0000.wav

The date is set using the unit’s internal clock. (See “Setting the
date and time” on page 29.)

item can be set to either

DATE

.

NOTE

WORD

, a 6-character le name is

WORD

(default

Setting the WORD item

To set the
buttons to move the cursor, and use the + or −
button to select the character.
In addition to the alphabet and numbers, the
following characters can be used:

! # $ % & ' ( ) + , - . ; = @ [ ] ^
_ ` { } ~

WORD

item, use the  and ¯

11–Settings and Information

TASCAM DR-05 99

12–Messages

The following is a list of the popup messages that might appear on the DR-05 under certain conditions.
Refer to this list if one of these popup messages appears and you want to check the meaning or determine a
proper response.

Message Meaning and response

File Name ERR

Dup File Name

File Not Found

Non-Supported

Battery Empty
I/O Too Short

File Not Found
PLAYLIST

No PLAYLIST

PLAYLIST Full

100 TASCAM DR-05

The DIVIDE function would cause the le name to exceed 200 characters. The DIVIDE
function adds "_a” or “_b” to the end of the le name. Before choosing the DIVIDE

function, connect the unit to a computer and edit the le name to less than 198 characters.

The DIVIDE function would cause the le name to be the same as that of an existing
le. The DIVIDE function adds "_a” or “_b” to the end of the le name. Before

choosing the DIVIDE function, connect the unit to a computer and edit the le name.

The le added to the playlist cannot be found or a le could be damaged. Please
check the le in question.

The audio le is not a supported format. Please see "10–Connecting with a
Computer" for le formats that this unit can use.

The battery is almost out of power. Replace the AA batteries.

The IN and OUT points are too close together. Reset the IN and OUT points with at
least 1 second between them.

The le in the Playlist cannot be found. Please conrm that the le is still in the Music
Folder.

No les have been added to the Playlist. Add a le to the Playlist or change the play
mode to something besides

The playlist is full. You cannot add more than 99 tracks to the Playlist.

PLAYLIST

.