TASCAM DR-44WL REFERENCE MANUAL

DR-44WL
Black Edition (DR-44WLB) Linear PCM Recorder
REFERENCE MANUAL
D01388320A
1 – Introduction ....................................................................... 4
Features .....................................................................................................4
Conventions used in this manual .....................................................4
About SD cards........................................................................................5
Precautions .........................................................................................5
Trademarks and copyrights ................................................................5
2 – Names and functions of parts ........................................... 6
Top panel ...................................................................................................6
Front panel ...............................................................................................7
Left side panel .........................................................................................7
Right side panel ...................................................................................... 7
Bottom panel ...........................................................................................8
Home Screen ............................................................................................8
Recording Screen ...................................................................................9
Menu item list ....................................................................................... 10
Using menus ......................................................................................... 11
Basic operations ................................................................................... 11
3 – Preparation .......................................................................12
Powering the unit................................................................................ 12
Power sources.................................................................................12
Using AA size batteries ................................................................ 12
Using an AC adapter
Using an external battery pack (sold separately) .............. 12
Using USB bus power .................................................................. 13
Turning the power on and off (standby mode) ........................13
Starting up the unit ...................................................................... 13
Shutting down (standby mode) .............................................. 13
Resume function ........................................................................... 13
Selecting the language ..................................................................... 14
If you accidentally select the wrong language................... 14
Setting the date/time ........................................................................ 14
Inserting and removing SD cards .................................................. 14
Inserting the SD card ................................................................... 14
Removing the card ....................................................................... 14
SD card write protection switches .......................................... 15
Preparing an SD card for use ........................................................... 15
Turning the built-in speaker on/off .............................................. 15
Connecting a monitor device ......................................................... 15
Adjusting the playback volume ..................................................... 16
Input settings ........................................................................................ 16
Recording with the built-in microphone .............................. 16
Recording with an external microphone (EXT MIC IN) .... 16
Recording from an external device (LINE IN) ...................... 16
Selecting Operation Mode............................................................... 17
Setting a mode ............................................................................... 17
Checking mode .............................................................................. 17
4 – Recording .........................................................................18
Overview of recording modes ........................................................ 18
Set where to save the file ................................................................. 18
Select the file format and sampling frequency (4CH mode
only) ......................................................................................................... 18
Adjusting the input level .................................................................. 19
Set the input gain ................................................................................ 19
Using phantom power ................................................................ 19
Settings in the INPUT SETTING screen......................................... 20
Setting channel links (4CH mode only) ................................. 21
Set the track input (MTR mode only) ..................................... 21
DELAY setting ................................................................................. 22
Set the low-cut filter ..................................................................... 22
Using the level control function .............................................. 23
Record in 4CH mode (4CH mode only) ....................................... 23
(sold separately) ........................................12
Record 4 channels ......................................................................... 23
File names when recording in 4-channel ............................. 23
Record in MTR mode (MTR mode only) ....................................... 24
Switch files during recording (track increment, available in
4CH mode only) ................................................................................... 24
Manual track increment during recording ........................... 24
Automatic track increment at specified time...................... 24
Recording automatically (AUTO REC) (4CH mode only)........ 25
Start recording a moment before pressing RECORD (PRE REC,
4CH mode only) ................................................................................... 25
Self-timer function .............................................................................. 26
Simultaneously recording two files with different input
levels/formats (DUAL REC, 4CH only) ........................................... 26
Enabling dual recording ............................................................. 26
Starting dual recording ............................................................... 27
Dual recording file names .......................................................... 27
Create cue marks during recording .............................................. 27
Manual cue marking during recording ................................. 27
Add cue marks automatically during recording ................ 28
Moving to the cue mark position ............................................ 28
Use MS microphone ........................................................................... 29
Punching in/out (MTR mode only) ................................................ 29
Punching in/out manually ......................................................... 29
Punching in/out automatically (AUTO PUNCH) ....................... 29
Recording duration............................................................................. 31
5 – Operating Files and Folders (4CH Mode Only) ..............32
Screen navigation ............................................................................... 32
Icons on the BROWSE screen .......................................................... 32
File operations ...................................................................................... 32
Folder operations ................................................................................ 33
Creating a new folder ........................................................................ 34
6 – Managing Songs (MTR Mode only) ................................. 35
Song Operation .................................................................................... 35
Loading Songs ...................................................................................... 35
Creating a New Song ......................................................................... 36
Changing the Song Name ................................................................ 36
Deleting songs ..................................................................................... 37
7 – Playback ...........................................................................38
Playback .................................................................................................. 38
Pausing.............................................................................................. 38
Stopping ........................................................................................... 38
Fast-rewinding and fast-forwarding (search) ...................... 38
Moving the playback position .................................................. 38
Selecting a playback file (skip) ....................................................... 38
Special Playback Control Functions ..............................................38
Playback Control Screen ............................................................. 38
Repeated Playback of Selection (Loop Playback) .............. 39
Clearing IN and OUT points only ............................................. 39
Changing the playback speed (VSA) ...................................... 39
Key control playback .................................................................... 40
Adding marks manually during playback .................................. 40
Clearing specified marks .................................................................. 40
Setting the mark skip mode ............................................................ 40
8 – QUICK Button Operation ................................................. 41
QUICK button overview .................................................................... 41
Quick menu operation ...................................................................... 41
Closing the Quick menu ............................................................. 42
Deleting the selected file (Quick Delete, only when in 4CH
mode) ...................................................................................................... 43
Dividing the selected file (4CH mode only) ............................... 43
TASCAM DR-44WL
2
Contents
Dividing the selected file manually(DIVIDE) ....................... 43
Dividing the selected file automatically (AUTO DIVIDE) . 44
Deleting track input (MTR mode only) ........................................ 44
Track bounce (MTR mode only) ..................................................... 45
Bouncing tracks ............................................................................. 45
Confirming the results of bouncing ....................................... 45
Mixing down ......................................................................................... 46
Loading master tracks (MTR mode only) ................................... 46
9 – Mixer ................................................................................. 47
Setting the mixer ................................................................................. 47
10 – Useful functions ............................................................. 48
Tuner function ...................................................................................... 48
Chromatic tuner............................................................................. 48
Oscillator mode .............................................................................. 48
Metronome function ......................................................................... 49
Reverb function ................................................................................... 49
Setting the reverb function ....................................................... 49
Reverb type pre-set list ............................................................... 50
Setting the XRI information recording function (4CH mode
only) ......................................................................................................... 50
Viewing XRI information (4CH mode only) ................................ 50
Deleting XRI information (4CH mode only) ............................... 50
11 – Connecting with a computer ........................................52
Transferring files to a computer ..................................................... 52
Transferring files from a computer ............................................... 52
Disconnecting the unit from a computer ................................... 52
Set the voltage value of the phantom power supply ...... 61
Backlight setting ............................................................................ 61
Adjusting the display contrast ................................................. 61
Set the peak hold .......................................................................... 61
14 – Messages ........................................................................ 62
15 – Troubleshooting ............................................................63
16 – Specifications ................................................................. 64
Rating ...................................................................................................... 64
Input/output ratings .......................................................................... 64
Analog audio input and output ratings ................................ 64
Control input/output ratings .................................................... 64
Audio performance ............................................................................ 64
Wi-Fi ......................................................................................................... 64
General .................................................................................................... 65
Dimensional drawings ....................................................................... 65
12 – Using Wi-Fi ...................................................................... 53
Connect the unit and smart phone via Wi-Fi ............................ 53
How to download and install the exclusive application (DR
CONTROL) ........................................................................................ 53
Selecting the Wi-Fi mode ........................................................... 53
Connecting the unit directly to external devices (smart­phones, tablets and computers) by Wi-Fi (TO DEVICE
mode) ................................................................................................ 53
Connecting the unit to external devices (smartphones,
tablets and computers) by Wi-Fi (VIA ROUTER mode) ..... 55
Launching DR CONTROL ............................................................ 56
Connecting this unit to a computer by Wi-Fi ............................ 57
Downloading and installing the TASCAM DR FILE
TRANSFER software ...................................................................... 57
Connecting the unit directly to a computer by Wi-Fi (TO
DEVICE mode) ................................................................................ 57
Connecting this unit to a computer by Wi-Fi after the first
time .......................................................................................................... 58
13 – Settings and Information .............................................. 59
View information (INFORMATION) ................................................ 59
Project information page 1 (PROJECT 1/2) (4CH mode
only) ................................................................................................... 59
Project information page 2 (PROJECT 2/2) (4CH mode
only) ................................................................................................... 59
Card information page (CARD) ................................................. 59
System information page (SYSTEM) ....................................... 59
Configuration (SYSTEM) .................................................................... 60
Setting the file name type ......................................................... 60
Setting the language ................................................................... 60
Restoring the DR-44WL to factory settings ......................... 60
Completely format a SD card .................................................... 61
Power and display settings (POWER/DISPLAY) ........................ 61
Auto power save function setting ........................................... 61
Battery type settings .................................................................... 61
TASCAM DR-44WL
3

1 – Introduction

Features

•
Compact audio recorder that uses SD/SDHC/SDXC cards as recording media
•
Built-in with high performance directional stereo microphones in XY positions
•
Mid-side decoding function can be used with MS microphones
•
Simultaneous recording of up to four channels is possible
•
Built-in four-track MTR feature
•
Built-in Wi-Fi feature to use smartphone as remote control, transfer files from the PCM recorder, and play back audio
•
44.1/48/96 kHz, 16/24-bit, linear PCM (WAV format) recording possible
•
Compatible with the BWF format
•
32–320 kbps MP3 format recording possible (compatible with ID3 tag v2.4)
•
The dual recording feature allows two files to be recorded simultaneously at different levels
•
Supports dual format recording (WAV/MP3)
•
Built-in 0.3 W monaural output monitor speaker
•
Built-in effector (reverb) function can be used during recording and playback
•
Auto-record function starts recording automatically when a set sound input level is detected
•
Track incrementing function allows you to update a file at a preset time or at desired position without interrupting recording
•
Pre-recording (PRE REC) function allows the unit to record the 2 seconds of sound before recording is activated
•
Peak reduction function is available to reduce the level automatically in case of excessively large input
•
Limiter function is available to reduce the level automatically in case of excessively large input
•
Low-cut filter conveniently reduces low-frequency noise
•
VSA function can change the playback speed in the range from 0.5 to 2.0 times (in 0.1 increments) the normal speed without changing pitch
•
IN-OUT loop playback functions

Conventions used in this manual

In this manual, we use the following conventions:
•
When we refer to buttons, connectors and other parts of this unit and other equipment, we use a bold font like this: MENU button.
•
When we show messages, for example, that appears on the unit’s display, the typeface looks like this: REPEAT.
•
Highlighted area on the DR-44WL display is indicated as a “cursor”.
•
SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards are referred to as “SD cards”.
•
Words that appear on the computer display are shown in quotation marks like this: “DR-44WL”
•
The selected folder is indicated as the “current folder”.
•
A computer or a smartphone that is connected with the DR-44WL via Wi-Fi is referred to as the “Wi-Fi device”.
•
Additional information is provided as “tips", “notes", and “caution” as required.
TIPS
These are tips about how to use the unit.
NOTE
These provide additional explanations and describe special cases.
CAUTION
Failure to follow these instructions could result in injury, damage to equipment or lost recording data, for example.
This product has a Blackfin® 16/32-bit embedded processor made by Analog Devices, Inc. This processor controls digital signal processing.
Inclusion of this Blackfin® processor in the product increases its performance and reduces its power consumption.
TASCAM DR-44WL
4
1 – Introduction

About SD cards

This unit uses SD cards for recording and playback. You can use 64 MB to 2 GB SD cards, 4 GB to 32 GB SDHC cards,
and 48 GB to 128 GB SDXC cards with this unit. A list of SD cards that have been confirmed for use with this unit
can be found on our web site. Please access to a product page of this product from the TEAC Global Site (https://teac-global.com) to find the list or contact the TASCAM customer support service.

Precautions

SD cards are delicate media. Please refer to the below when using memory cards to prevent memory and/or card damage:
•
Do not leave a memory card in extremely hot or cold places
•
Do not leave a memory card in extremely humid places
•
Do not spill any liquids on the memory card
•
Do not bend the card or subject it to any excessive force
•
Do not subject the card to any physical shock
•
Do not remove the card while the unit is accessing data, or recording, playing, or making data transfer
•
Always store the memory card in a case

Trademarks and copyrights

•
TASCAM is a trademark of TEAC CORPORATION, registered in the U.S. and other countries.
•
SDXC Logo is a trademark of SD-3C, LLC.
•
Supply of this product does not convey a license nor imply any right to distribute MPEG Layer-3 compliant content created with this product in revenue-generating broadcast systems (terrestrial, satellite, cable and/or other distribution channels), streaming applications (via Internet, intranets and/or other networks), other content distribution systems (pay-audio or audio-on-demand applications and the like) or on physical media (compact discs, digital versatile discs, semiconductor chips, hard drives, memory cards and the like). An independent license for such use is required. For details, please visit http://mp3licensing.com.
•
MPEG Layer-3 audio coding technology licensed from Fraunhofer IIS and Thomson.
•
Wi-Fi is a trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance. The Wi-Fi CERTIFIED Logo is a certification mark of Wi-Fi Alliance.
•
Microsoft and Windows are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.
•
Mac is trademarks of Apple Inc. in the United States and other countries.
•
IOS is a trademark or registered tradmark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.
•
App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
•
Google Play and Android are trademarks of Google inc.
•
Blackfin® and the Blackfin logo are registered trademarks of Analog Devices, Inc.
•
Other company names, product names and logos in this document are the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
TASCAM DR-44WL
5

2 – Names and functions of parts

Top panel

1 Built-in stereo microphone (INT R/INT L)
This is an XY directional stereo electret condenser micro­phone.
On this unit, the mic that appears behind and on the left in the illustration is called INT R and the mic in front on the right is called INT L.
2 PEAK indicator
Lights (red) when the input volume is too high (−2 dB).
3 Display
Displays a variety of information.
4 TRACK/INPUT button
During recording standby (4 CH mode) or when stopped (MTR mode), press this button to select the channel (track) to record.
When the INPUT LEVEL setting screen pops up, press this button to select the channel (track) for adjusting the input level.
When the INPUT SETTING screen is open, press these buttons to show channels (tracks) to set.
5 8/HOME button
If you want to pause, press the button again. Press this button during pause time to return to the
beginning of the file. Press this button during recording or recording standby to
cause the recording to stop. To return to the Home screen, press this button in any screen
display. Use this button to select “NO” to a confirmation message.
6 . button
During playback or when stopped in the middle of a file, press to return to the beginning of the file.
When the IN and OUT points are set between the current position and the end of the playback file, 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 ENTER/ MARK button to return to the previous mark.
On the setting screens, use this button to move the cursor left.
On the BROWSE screen, press this button to move up a level.
7 7/9 button
To start playback in the Home screen, press this button while in stop mode.
If you want to pause, press the button again. When a file or folder is selected on the BROWSE screen, press
this button to return to the Home screen and play the file or the first file in the folder from the beginning.
8 MENU button
When the Home screen is displayed, press this button to open the MENU screen.
Press this button to return to the MENU screen from the various setting screens.
When the MENU screen is open, press this button to return to the Home screen.
9 MTR indicator
Lights up when the operation mode is in MTR mode.
0 MIXER button
Press this button to open the MIXER screen. When the MIXER screen is open, press this button to return
to the Home screen.
q RECORD button/RECORD indicator
4CH mode:
When stopped, press this button to put the unit into
recording standby. The RECORD indicator will start to
blink.
When in standby, press this button to start recording. The
RECORD indicator lights when recording.
Press when recording to pause recording. The RECORD
indicator will start to blink.
MTR mode:
When stopped or playing back, press this button to start
recording. The RECORD indicator lights when recording.
When recording, this button does not function.
w / Fast forward button
Press this button in playback or stop mode to skip to the next track.
When the IN and OUT points are set between the current position and the end of the playback file, pressing this button skips to those points.
Press and hold this button for fast forward search. On the setting screens, use this button to move the cursor
right. Press this button while pressing and holding the ENTER/
MARK button to move forward 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.
e INPUT button
Press this button to open the INPUT SETTING screen. When the INPUT SETTING screen is open, press this button
to return to the Home screen.
r ENTER/MARK button
Use this button to confirm selections or select “YES” to a confirmation message.
Press this button during recording to add a mark manually. (See “Manual cue marking during recording” on page 27.)
While pressing and holding this button during playback, press the . button to return to the previous mark or
TASCAM DR-44WL
6
2 – Names and functions of parts
press the / button to move forward to the next mark. (See “Moving to the cue mark position” on page 28.)
When the PLAY FUNCTION 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 (start) and OUT (end) points are already set, press this button to clear the IN and OUT points.
t QUICK button
When the Home screen, PLAY FUNCTION screen, BROWSE screen or SONG screen is open, press this button to pop up the quick menu. (See “QUICK button overview” on page
41.)
y Wheel
This is used to select items or change value on setting screens. Also used to change the playback position in a file.

Front panel

o SD card slot
Insert or remove a SD card.
p HOLD/ switch
To turn the power on/off, slide and hold the switch towards the icon.
When you slide the switch towards the HOLD side, all the functions of the buttons are locked.
a /LINE OUT jack
A headphone or a line input jack of an external device (via stereo mini-jack cable) can be connected to this jack.
s OUTPUT LEVEL button
These buttons adjust the output sound level of the built-in speaker or the /LINE OUT jack.
During adjustment, a volume indicator will be displayed in a pull-up window.
d Wi-Fi button
Use this button to turn on/off the Wi-Fi function.

Right side panel

u Wi-Fi indicator
Indicates the status of wireless LAN.
Lights out: OFF Blinks: Waiting to be connected Lights up: Operable from the exclusive application (DR
CONTROL)
i EXT MIC/LINE IN 1/L / 2/R jack (XLR/TRS)
These are balanced analog XLR/TRS combo jacks for micro­phone and line level inputs.
XLR (1: GND, 2: HOT, 3: COLD) TRS (Tip: HOT, Ring: COLD, Sleeve: GND)
CAUTION
•
Confirm that phantom power is OFF before connecting a line level device to these EXT MIC/LINE IN jacks. If you connect a line level device while phantom power is being supplied, that device and this unit could be damaged.
•
When connecting to or disconnecting a condenser micro­phone from the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack, confirm that the phantom power for that jack is OFF. If you connect or disconnect a microphone while phantom power is being supplied, that microphone and this unit could be damaged.
•
Do not connect an unbalanced dynamic microphone to an XLR connector when phantom power is being supplied. Doing so could damage that microphone and this unit.

Left side panel

f EXT IN switch
Set the gain for the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack and whether phantom power is on or off.
CAUTION
•
Confirm that phantom power is OFF before connecting a line-level device to the EXT MIC/LINE IN connector. If you connect a line-level device while phantom power is being supplied, that device and this unit could be damaged.
•
Do not connect or disconnect mics when the phantom power switch is set to ON. Doing so could cause a loud noise and might damage this unit and connected equipment.
•
Turn phantom power ON only when using a condenser microphone that requires phantom power. Turning phantom power on when a dynamic mic or other mic that does not require it is connected could damage this unit and connected equipment.
•
When using condenser mics that require phantom power and dynamic mics together, be sure to use balanced dynamic mics. Unbalanced dynamic mics cannot be used when phantom power is enabled.
•
Supplying phantom power to some ribbon mics could break them. If you are unsure, do not supply phantom power to a ribbon mic.
•
When using USB bus power, the unit might not be able to supply phantom power depending on the computer. If this occurs, use the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U:sold separately).
•
Some condenser microphones will not operate when phantom power is set to +24V.
•
Do not connect or disconnect the AC adapter when using phantom power. Doing so could cause the unit to turn off even when batteries are installed in it. This can result in recording data being damaged or lost.
TASCAM DR-44WL
7
2 – Names and functions of parts
g INPUT LEVEL button
Press this button to show the INPUT LEVEL setting screen on the display as a pull-down menu.
When the INPUT LEVEL setting screen is shown, press this button to close the pull-down menu.
h INPUT LEVEL volume
When the INPUT LEVEL setting screen is shown, use this to adjust the input level.
j USB port
Use a USB cable to connect the DR-44WL with a computer. (See “11 – Connecting with a computer” on page 52.)
Power can be supplied through the USB cable or the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately).
CAUTION
Connect the DR-44WL directly be connected directly with the computer, not through a USB hub.

Bottom panel

z Strap holder
A strap can be attached to this holder.
x Battery compartment
Insert four AA batteries into the compartment to power the unit. (See “Using AA size batteries” on page 12.)

Home Screen

k Built-in mono speaker
Use this built-in speaker to listen to recordings. No sound will play when:
• In recording standby
• Headphone is connected
• In recording mode
• Speaker output setting is turned off
l Tripod attachment screw-hole (1/4 inch)
A tripod can be attached to the DR-44WL.
CAUTION
•
Ensure the tripod or microphone stand screws are securely fastened to prevent the unit from falling off.
•
When attaching this unit to a tripod or microphone stand, ensure to place it on a level surface.
•
Some tripods have different screw specifications that make direct connection impossible. Use a commercially-available adapter with such tripods.
; Battery compartment cover
Home Screen in the 4 CH mode
Home Screen in the MTR mode
1 Playback speed status display
One of the following icons appears according to the playback speed setting.
Icon Playback speed
Blank Playback speed not changed
×1.1 – ×2.0
×0.5 – ×0.9
When the playback speed cannot be changed
TASCAM DR-44WL
8
2 – Names and functions of parts
2 Display of the key control function on/off status
This icon shows whether the key control function is on or off.
Icon On/off status
Blank Key control function off
Key control function on Key control function on (setting disabled
state)
3 Reverb on/off status display
This icon shows the reverb on/off status.
Icon On/off status
Blank Reverb is off
Reverb is on (sound effects recording) INT MIC, EXT IN
Reverb is on (SEND status) MIX
4 Speaker output display
displayed: Speaker output on
Blank: Speaker output off
5 Phantom power supply display
Blank: No phantom power supply
: 48V phantom power supplied
: 24V phantom power supplied
6 Power supply status message
When power is supplied from the batteries, the current battery level is displayed in bars ( , , ).
When the battery level is low, the will flash and the power will be switched off (standby mode).
When the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately) or USB bus power is used, appears.
NOTE
When attempting recording or other operations that consume large amount of power, a warning message of Battery Low may pop-up.
7 Recorder status message
The recording status is indicated in the following icons:
Indicator Detail
8
9
7
,
m
/
.
Stop
Pause
Playback
Fast-forwarding
Fast-rewinding Skip forward to the beginning of the next
file Skip backward to the beginning of either the
current or preceding file
NOTE
ID3 tag information contains titles and artist names, which can be stored in MP3 files.
0 Loop playback IN (starting) and OUT (ending) points
setting status
The IN (starting) and OUT (ending) points-setting state of the loop playback is shown.
When the IN (starting) point is set, the icon appears at the set position on the playback position-displaying bar.
The icon appears at the playback position on the bar when the OUT (ending) point is set.
q Playback position display
The current playback position is shown by a bar. As playback progresses, the bar extends to the right.
w Level meter guide display
This is a level meter guide for adjusting the input and output levels. It is displayed at the “−12 dB” position of the scale.
e Level meter
This meter displays the level of an input sound or that of a playback sound.
r File status display
The file state is displayed in different ways, depending on the type of a file to be played back.
: Stereo file status : Status of two mono files : No file
t Elapsed time display
Displays the elapsed time (hours: minutes: seconds) of the current file.
y Remaining time display
Displays the remaining time (hours: minutes: seconds) of the current file.
u Peak value displayed in decibel (dB)
Displays the maximum playback level in decibel reading per set amount of time.

Recording Screen

The following recording screen is displayed in recording or recording standby mode.
8 Loop playback setting status display
During loop playback, the icon is displayed.
9 Filename/song name display
When the 4CH mode is selected, the name or tag infor­mation of a file being played back is shown.
The ID3 tag information is displayed instead when included in the MP3 file.
When there are multiple files in the 4CH mode, only the format portion of each of the file names and the basic number of a recording file are displayed. When a single file is recorded, its name is shown.
When the MTR mode is selected, the name of an opened song is shown.
Recording screen in the 4 CH mode
TASCAM DR-44WL
9
2 – Names and functions of parts
Recording screen in the MTR mode
1 Display of the dual recording function on/off status (4CH
mode only)
Blank: dual recording function off
: dual recording function on
2 Reverb on/off status display
This icon shows the reverb on/off status.
Icon Detail
Blank Reverb is off
Reverb is on (sound effects recording) INT MIC, EXT IN
Reverb is on (SEND status) MIX
3 Phantom power supply display
Blank: No phantom power supply
: 48V phantom power supplied
: 24V phantom power supplied
4 Recording status message
The recording status is indicated in the following icons:
Indicator Detail
09
0
5 Display of the setting status of the PRE REC or AUTO REC
function (4CH mode only)
When the PRE REC function is ON, the icon appears. When the AUTO REC function is ON, the icon appears.
6 Filename/song name display
Displays the file name automatically assigned to the recording file.
When there are multiple files in the 4CH mode, only the format portion of each of the file names and the basic number of a recording file are displayed. When a single file is recorded, its name is shown.
When the MTR mode is selected, the name of an opened song is shown.
7 Level meter guide display
This is a level meter guide for adjusting the input and output levels. It is displayed at the “-12 dB” position of the scale.
8 Level meter
Displays the input sound level.
9 File status display
The file state is displayed in different ways, depending on the type of a file to be recorded.
Recording standby or recording pause mode
In recording mode
Self-timer recording activated
: Stereo file status : Status of two mono files
0 Elapsed recording time
Displays the elapsed recording time of a recorded file (hours: minutes: seconds).
q Remaining recording time
The remaining time left on the SD card is shown in hours: minutes: seconds.
w Peak decibel (dB) message
Displays the peak input level in decibel reading.
e Auto punch in/out function on/off status or master track
loading status (MTR mode only)
No icon: auto punch in/out function off
: auto punch in/out function on
: master track loaded

Menu item list

Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen. Menu items are as follows:
Menu item Function Ref. page
MODE
REC SETTING
AUTO FUNCTION
BROWSE
(4CH mode only) SONG (MTR mode only)
TOOLS
REVERB
POWER/DISPLAY
SYSTEM
Switch the operation mode of this unit.
Make recording settings
Set different recording functions.
SD card file and folder operations Operate songs on the card.
Configure settings for different functions
Configure reverb settings. Set the power and the display
Various system settings
page 17
page 18 page 25 page 26 page 29
page 24 page 25 page 28
page 32
page 35
page 15 page 48 page 49 page 53 page 55 page 57
page 49
page 61
page 59 page 60
TASCAM DR-44WL
10
2 – Names and functions of parts

Using menus

The following explains the menus, using the display contrast setting as an example.
1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Use the wheel to select a menu item (highlighted), and press the ENTER/MARK or / button to move to various settings screens.
3. Use the wheel to select an item to set (highlighted).

Basic operations

Use the following buttons to operate the various screens.
8
MENU button
Opens the MENU screen.
8
8/HOME button
To return to the Home screen, press the 8/HOME button in any screen display.
Use this to answer “NO” to a confirmation message.
8
ENTER/MARK button
Use this button to confirm selection of a setting item or to select “YES” to a confirmation message.
8
/ button
Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted area) to the right on the screen or to open folders on the BROWSE screen.
8
. button
Use this to move the cursor (the highlighted area) to the left on the screen, and to close folders on the BROWSE screen.
8
Wheel
Use this to select (highlight) each item or to change value.
8
MIXER button
Open the MIXER screen.
8
INPUT button
Open the INPUT SETTING screen.
8
QUICK button
This opens the quick menu pop-up. (See “QUICK button overview” on page 41.)
4. Press the ENTER/MARK or / button to move the cursor to highlight the setting.
5. Use the wheel to change the setting.
6. Press the ENTER/MARK or . button to set a different item in the same menu.
This enables you to select a new item. Use the wheel to select an item to be set (highlighted).
7. Repeat the 3. to 6. steps to set each items, as necessary.
8. Press the MENU button to return to the MENU screen. Press the 8/HOME button to return to the Home screen.
TASCAM DR-44WL
11

3 – Preparation

Powering the unit

Power sources

The DR-44WL operates on four AA batteries, the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately) or USB cable (USB bus power).
Use either alkaline batteries or Ni-MH batteries.

Using AA size batteries

Remove the battery compartment cover on the back of the unit, insert four AA batteries into the battery compartment, aligning to the ¥ and ^ markings inside the battery compartment, and close the cover.
Using an AC adapter
Connect the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately) and the USB port of the unit with the USB cable (Type-A to micro-B: Included with TASCAM PS-P520U) as shown in the illustration.
AC outlet
PS-P520U
(sold separately)
micro-B USB plug
(sold separately)
Connect the USB cable
NOTE
When both batteries and the AC adapter are attached to the unit, power will be supplied from the AC adapter.
CAUTION
•
Use only the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately). The use of another adapter may cause malfunction, fire or electric shock.
•
Noise may occur during microphone recording when the unit and AC adapter are in close proximity. If noise occurs, move the AC adapter away from the unit.
Select the same type of batteries to get an accurate reading of the remaining battery power and required minimum power for operation. (See “Battery type settings” on page 61.)
CAUTION
•
Do not use Manganese dry cell batteries.
•
Ni-MH batteries will not be recharged with this unit; use a separate battery recharger instead.
•
The supplied alkaline batteries are for testing and may not last long.
NOTE
A large amount of power is consumed to provide phantom power to a condenser microphone. If you use a condenser microphone while running the unit on AA batteries (NiMH rechargeable or alkaline), the operating time will be extremely shortened.
If you need to operate the unit for a long time, use the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately) or TASCAM BP-6AA external battery box (sold separately) to power the unit.

Using an external battery pack (sold separately)

Connect a TASCAM BP-6AA external battery pack (designed for use with this unit and sold separately) to the recorder with the USB cable as shown in the illustration. For details, see the BP-6AA Owner’s Manual.
TASCAM BP-6AA (sold separately)
Connect the USB cable (sold separately)
micro-B USB plug
CAUTION
The DR-44WL cannot detect the remaining battery charge of a BP-6AA. If you use a BP-6AA to operate the DR-44WL without batteries in the recorder itself, the unit might stop operating suddenly if the battery pack runs out of charge.
In order to avoid problems, put batteries with sufficient charge into the DR-44WL before connecting and using a BP-6AA.
TASCAM DR-44WL
12
3 – Preparation

Using USB bus power

Use the USB cable to connect the unit and the computer as illustrated below.
Computer
USB
micro-B USB plug
When you connect a USB cable while the unit power is on, or turn on the power after making a connection, the USB SELECT screen will pop up, prompting the user to select either to operate the unit with USB bus power or make a USB connection with the computer.

Starting up the unit

When the unit is turned off, slide the HOLD/ switch of the left side panel in the direction, and when the TASCAM DR-44WL (start-up screen) appears, release the switch.
The DR-44WL starts up and the Home screen is displayed.
Start-up screen Home screen
CAUTION
When turn the power on for the first time (or when the built-in clock is reset due to no battery power), the DATE/ TIME screen will appear before the Home screen to set date/ time. (See “Song Operation” on page 35.)

Shutting down (standby mode)

When the unit is turned on, slide the HOLD/ switch of the left side panel in the direction, and when the TASCAM DR-44WL shutting down… appears, release the switch.
The power turns off after the unit completes its shutdown process.
Use the wheel to select BUS POWER (highlighted) and press the ENTER/MARK button to select power supply from the USB port. The Home screen will appear.
NOTE
Power is supplied from the USB port when USB cable is connected to the unit inserted with batteries (USB bus power prioritized).
CAUTION
•
Depending on the USB bus power specifications of the computer, the DR-44WL may not operate with a USB connection. If this occurs, use the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately).
•
This unit is not compatible with the computer's power-save mode or sleep-mode. Please turn off these modes when operating the unit from the computer's USB bus power.

Turning the power on and off (standby mode)

CAUTION
•
When you turn the power switch off while supplying power from the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately) or the USB bus power connected to a computer, the unit will go into standby mode.
•
Before turning the power switch on and off, turn the volume down for the sound system connected to the unit.
•
Do not wear headphones when turning the power switch on and off (standby mode); the noise may cause damage to your ears and/or headphones.
CAUTION
Always use the HOLD/ switch to turn the power off. Do not remove the batteries or disconnect the power cable
accidentally 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. Any lost data and/or settings cannot be restored.

Resume function

The DR-44WL is equipped with a resume function to locate the previous position (or time) when the power was turned off.
Turn the power on and press the 7/9 button to play back from the previous file position (time) when the power was turned off.
NOTE
The position is recorded in the SD card. The resume function does not work if the SD card is replaced or formatted.
TASCAM DR-44WL
13
3 – Preparation

Selecting the language

You can change the language shown on the display. The first time you turn the unit on after purchasing it, the LANGUAGE screen will open. You can set the language used on this screen. You can also change this setting with the SYSTEM screen LANGUAGE item.
1. Turn the wheel to move the cursor and select the language.
Options
English: use English
日本語: use Japanese
Français: use French Español: use Spanish Deutsch: use German Italiano: use Italian
Русский
: use Russian
5. Press the . button or / button to move the cursor (highlighted area), and use the wheel to change values.
6. Press the ENTER/MARK button to confirm the change and return to the SYSTEM screen.
NOTE
The file name will include the set date/time. (See “Setting the file name type” on page 60.)
CAUTION
The date and time setting can only be maintained for a few minutes if the battery power becomes low or the unit is not powered by the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately) or USB cable.
When using batteries, we recommend to replace them before they are completely drained.

Inserting and removing SD cards

2. After making the selection, press the ENTER/MARK button to confirm it.

If you accidentally select the wrong language

Slide the HOLD/ switch to turn the power off. Then, slide the HOLD/ switch while pressing and holding the MENU button to turn the unit on again.
The language selection menu where you can set the language appears.

Setting the date/time

The DR-44WL uses its internal clock to record the date and time to the recorded files.
1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Using the wheel, select (highlight) SYSTEM menu item and press the ENTER/MARK or / button.
The SYSTEM screen is displayed.
3. Use the wheel to select DATE/TIME and press the ENTER/ MARK or / button.
Exec appears selected for the DATE/TIME item.

Inserting the SD card

1. Open the SD card slot cover on the left side panel.
2. Insert the SD card into the slot as shown in the following illustration until it clicks into place.

Removing the card

1. Open the SD card slot cover.
2. Press the SD card in gently and then release it to allow it to come out.
4. Press the ENTER/MARK button to open the DATE/TIME
screen.
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14
3 – Preparation
CAUTION
•
Do not remove the SD card from the unit during recording, playback or at other times when it is being accessed.
•
Do not remove the SD card from the unit when it is connected to a computer via USB.
•
SD cards that meet SD, SDHC or SDXC standards can be used with this unit.
•
A list of SD cards that have been confirmed for use with this unit can be found on our web site. Please access to a product page of this product from the TEAC Global Site (https:// teac-global.com) to find the list or contact the TASCAM customer support service.
•
When using a microSD card in an SD card adapter, do not remove just the microSD card. Always remove the adapter with the microSD card in it. Removing only the microSD card could cause malfunction.

SD card write protection switches

An SD card comes equipped with a write protect switch.
Unprotected Protected
If you slide the protect switch to the LOCK position, file recording and editing is not possible. Move the switch to the unlocked position in order to record, erase and otherwise edit data on the card.
CAUTION
When formatting the SD card, make sure the unit is connected to the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately), a computer via USB bus power, or fully­charged batteries.

Turning the built-in speaker on/off

The factory setting for the built-in speaker output is selected as ON. To turn it off, open the TOOLS screen and select OFF for the SPEAKER setting.
1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Using the wheel, select (highlight) TOOLS menu item and press the ENTER/MARK or / button.
TOOLS screen appears.
3. Using the wheel, select (highlight) SPEAKER and press the ENTER/MARK or / button.
4. Using the wheel, turn on or off and press the ENTER/MARK button.
Options: OFF, ON (default setting)
5. Once the setting has been completed, press the 8/HOME button to return to the Home screen.

Preparing an SD card for use

In order to use an SD card in this unit, you must format it first.
1. Confirm that an SD card is installed and turn the power ON.
2. The following message appears when a new card or a card formatted by another device is inserted into the unit.
SD/SDHC card
SDXC card
3. Press the ENTER/MARK button to start formatting.
NOTE
In a recording standby or recording mode, or when a headphone or a speaker system is connected to the DR-44WL, the built-in speaker will not emit sound even when the SPEAKER setting is ON.

Connecting a monitor device

To listen with a headphone, connect it to the /LINE OUT jack. External monitor system (powered monitor speaker or an
amplifier and speaker): connect the external monitor system to the /LINE OUT jack.
Powered speakers
Headphone
or Amplifier and speaker
CAUTION
Formatting an SD card erases all the data on it.
4. When formatting is complete, it will return to the Home screen. You may format the card whenever required.
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15
3 – Preparation

Adjusting the playback volume

When the Home screen is being displayed, use the OUTPUT LEVEL (+/−) button on the left side panel to adjust the volume
of output through the built-in speaker or the /LINE OUT jack. A volume level indicator will pull up at the bottom of the display.
When increasing the volume, this pop-up message might appear: “INCREASE YOUR RISK OF HEARING DAMAGE.”

Input settings

Recording with the built-in microphone

Point the built-in microphone toward the sound source and place the unit on a stable surface with minimum vibration.
NOTE
During mono recording, orient the mic set for the recording channel toward the sound source.

Recording with an external microphone (EXT MIC IN)

Connect an external microphone to the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack of this unit.
Point the external microphone toward the sound source and place the unit on a stable surface with minimum vibration.
This warning appears when the volume is set above a level recommended by the European Union (EU) to avoid hearing damage (EU volume limit regulation).
Reconnecting headphones will reset the volume to its default value.
NOTE
•
You can continue to adjust the volume even after the pop-up message appears.
When you raise or lower the volume, the pop-up message will disappear.
•
If the output level is set to 12 or higher and the unit is restarted when headphones or another device are connected to the /LINE OUT jack, the upper level will be set to 12 after the unit restarts.
CAUTION
Listening at high volumes could cause hearing damage. If the surroundings are noisy, the sound of playback might seem quieter than it actually is.
Start playback of the audio and check the volume before putting on headphones, for example.
Microphones
NOTE
To provide phantom power to a condenser microphone, set the EXT IN switch to MIC+PHANTOM. (See “Set the input gain” on page 19.)

Recording from an external device (LINE IN)

Use stereo plug cables to connect to the output of an external audio device.
Audio device or external device
TASCAM DR-44WL
16
CAUTION
•
If the input sound is still distorted after adjusting the input level of the unit, reduce the playback sound of the external device.
•
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.

Selecting Operation Mode

Two operation modes are available in this unit: 4CH and MTR modes. (See “Overview of recording modes” on page 18.)

Setting a mode

1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Using the wheel, select (highlight) MODE menu item and press the ENTER/MARK or / button.
The MODE screen is displayed.
3. Using the wheel, select (highlight) MODE and press the ENTER/MARK or / button.
3 – Preparation
4. Use the wheel to select operation mode. Options: 4CH (default value), MTR
5. Once the setting has been completed, press the 8/HOME button to return to the Home screen.
NOTE
The selected mode is stored and started in the selected mode when the power is turned on next time.

Checking mode

When the operation mode is set to MTR, the MTR indicator on the top of the display lights up.
TASCAM DR-44WL
17

4 – Recording

In addition to the built-in microphone, an external microphone or external audio devices (i.e. CD player) can also be used for recordings.
Recordings can be made in MP3 (32k -320kbps, 44.1k/48kHz) and WAV/BWF (44.1k/48k/96kHz, 16/24-bit) audio formats.
Cue marks in WAV file that supports BWF (Broadcast Wave Format) can be used in BWF compatible softwares.

Overview of recording modes

This recorder can record sounds in two modes: 4CH and MTR modes.
8
4CH mode
A maximum of four channels can be recorded simultaneously from the built-in mics and external input jacks (input jack assign­ments are fixed).
The recorded files are as follows according to the recording channel link settings.
•
Mono × 1–4
•
Stereo × 1–2
•
Stereo × 1 + Mono × 1–2 (WAV or BWF only)
8
MTR mode
You can use this device as a multitrack recorder (MTR) to record individual tracks and overdub them.
A maximum of four channels can be recorded simultaneously from the built-in mics and external input jacks (input jack assign­ments can be selected). These can also be recorded into already recorded files (overdubbing) .
The recorded files are as follows.
•
Mono × 4
3. Using the wheel, select (highlight) FORMAT and press the
ENTER/MARK or / button. Set the file format.
Using the wheel, select one of the following options. Options: BWF 24bit, BWF 16bit, WAV 24bit, WAV 16bit
(default value), MP3 320k, MP3 256k, MP3 192k, MP3 128k, MP3 96k, MP3 64k, MP3 32k
NOTE
•
BWF is a format created for broadcasting that has the same sound quality as the standard WAV format. It also uses the same .wav file extension as WAV files. In this manual, we distinguish these file types by using the terms BWF and WAV.
•
The WAV and BWF formats offer higher quality recording than MP3 files.
•
The MP3 format can record for longer hours compared to the WAV and BWF formats.
•
With MP3 format, recording with higher values offers better quality.
4. Press the ENTER/MARK or . button to confirm the setting and enable selection of other setting items.
5. Using the wheel, select (highlight) SAMPLE and press the ENTER/MARK or / button.
Set the sampling frequency.

Set where to save the file

Set the folder where recorded files are saved. The recorded file will be saved in the current (currently selected)
folder. For details, see the SELECT quick menu item under (See “Folder operations” on page 33.).
In 4CH mode if no setting is made, new recording files are created in the “MUSIC” folder.
In MTR mode, new recording files are created in the “MTR” folder.

Select the file format and sampling frequency (4CH mode only)

Select the desired audio file type before you start recording.
1. Press the MENU button to open the MENU screen.
2. Using the wheel, select (highlight) REC SETTING and press
the ENTER/MARK or / button. The REC SETTING screen appears.
Using the wheel, select one of the following options. Options: 44.1k (default value), 48k, 96k
NOTE
96k cannot be selected for a MP3 format file.
TIP
You can record with audio quality equivalent to a CD by selecting WAV 16bit and 44.1k.
6. Press the ENTER/MARK or . button to confirm the setting and enable selection of other setting items.
7. Once the setting has been completed, press the 8/HOME button to return to the Home screen.
TASCAM DR-44WL
18
4 – Recording

Adjusting the input level

Before starting recording, the input level should be adjusted to prevent the recorded sounds or signals from being distorted due to excessively large input signals or from being inaudible due to excessively low input signals compared to noise.
In addition to manual adjustment, the unit has the following two level adjustment functions: peak reduction and limiter. Any of these can be used as required. (See “How to download and install the exclusive application (DR CONTROL)” on page 53.)
TIPS
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 sound quality.
1. In the Home screen mode, press the INPUT LEVEL button at
the right side panel to make the INPUT LEVEL setting screen pop up.
All the TRACK/INPUT buttons start flashing.
Press a TRACK/INPUT button to select a channel (track) for input level adjustment.
Selected TRACK/INPUT buttons light.
NOTE
If you select multiple channels/tracks (1/2 or 3/4) for input level adjustment, you can adjust them at the same time.
2. Use the INPUT LEVEL volume of the right side panel to adjust the input level.

Set the input gain

When an external input is selected for the input source, select the option for the EXT IN switch at the right side panel to suit the connected external device.
8
MIC+PHANTOM:
Use this setting when connecting condenser microphones that require phantom power (+24V or +48V) to the recorder. (See “Using phantom power” on page 19.)
8
MIC:
Use this setting when connecting microphones to the recorder.
8
LINE:
Use this setting when connecting line output jacks of external devices to the analog inputs of this recorder.
CAUTION
Depending on this setting, the input level setting range changes. For this reason, the input level might change greatly when this setting is changed. Before changing it, you should turn the power OFF or turn the output level all the way down.

Using phantom power

In stop mode, if you change the EXT IN switch at the right side panel to MIC+PHANTOM, a pop-up message appears confirming that you want to turn phantom power on.
When the input sound is too loud, the PEAK indicator of the top panel is lit in red.
A tg mark is provided at the “-12 dB” position on the level meters.
Set the input level so that the level changes near this mark without causing the PEAK indicator to light in red.
3. Press the INPUT LEVEL button at the right side panel or the 8/HOME button at the top panel to return to the HOME screen.
NOTE
When in recording standby or during recording, the speaker does not output sound even if the SPEAKER setting is enabled.
If you need to monitor sound to adjust the input level and make recordings, connect the headphone to the /LINE OUT jack.
To adjust monitor sound, go to the Home screen and use the OUTPUT LEVEL button at the left side panel. Adjusting the monitor sound will not affect the recording quality.
When the confirmation pop-up message opens, press the
ENTER/MARK button to turn phantom power on for the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack and supply phantom power (+24V or +48V) to
the connected microphone. While the confirmation pop-up message is displayed, change
the EXT IN switch to either MIC or LINE to close the confir­mation pop-up message and turn phantom power off.
Use the POWER/DISPLAY screen to set the voltage to +24V or +48V. (See “Set the voltage value of the phantom power supply” on page 61.)
NOTE
Battery power will be consumed faster when set to +48V than when set to +24V.
CAUTION
•
Confirm that phantom power is OFF before connecting a line level device to the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack. If you connect a line level device while phantom power is being supplied, that device and this unit could be damaged.
TASCAM DR-44WL
19
4 – Recording
•
When connecting to or disconnecting a condenser micro­phone from the EXT MIC/LINE IN jack, confirm that the phantom power for that jack is OFF. If you connect or disconnect a microphone while phantom power is being supplied, that microphone and this unit could be damaged.
•
Turn phantom power ON only when using a condenser microphone that requires phantom power.
•
Supplying phantom power to some ribbon microphones will break them. If you are unsure, do not supply phantom power to a ribbon microphone.
•
When using USB bus power, the unit might not be able to supply phantom power depending on the computer. If this occurs, use the dedicated AC adapter (TASCAM PS-P520U: sold separately).
•
Some condenser microphones will not operate when phantom power is set to +24V.
•
Do not connect or disconnect the AC adapter when using phantom power. Even when the battery were inserted in the unit, the power might be cut off, causing data being recorded to be damaged or lost.

Settings in the INPUT SETTING screen

The contents of the INPUT SETTING screen displayed by pressing the INPUT button vary depending on which mode to be selected between 4CH mode and MTR mode.
INPUT SETTING screen TRACK 1 display when in 4CH mode
INPUT SETTING screen TRACK 1 display when in MTR mode
NOTE
When a channel (track) link is turned on, the link status shown at the bottom of the INPUT SETTING screen will change.
INPUT SETTING screen TRACK 1 display when in 4CH mode
TASCAM DR-44WL
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