I use the optional Bluetooth module for two reasons. You don't need to "run around" to see what your x8 is doing or change the settings it ALL can be done with on your phone with a direct clone of the screen. Also, timecode is very important to me and with Bluetooth you can jam the X8 to a master clock and sync in post is a snap. this is the only handheld recorder that currently does that.
Thanks for your comment. Timecode is sweet. I wish that Tascam would include a screen rotate feature for when I want to use the device and point the mic at me at the same time, lol. The app would solve that problem though... Cheers.
@@RobertHamm I had the same thought and can'tbelieve this isn't a thing yet. I was recording myself on guitar with a H4n PPro and basically had to navigate the device upside down!
Great review! I have been loving my X8. I upgraded from the h1n. FYI to anyone purchasing the Bluetooth adapter. I spent an hour trying to get it to work until I realized that the location had to be turned on, on the phone.
The X8 is a game changer for me. I really like it. I'm even getting over the build quality of the onboard mics... still bothers me a little, but they perform so well for sound effects, spoken word, vocals, music... they really are good. Just cheap feeling. I usually use other mics anyway.. I don't have th eBT, so I didn't know that. Thanks for sharing. It's a great tip. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm yeah I agree the mics sound great and this thing has saved the day on many projects so far due to the 32bit. I change the mic config a lot so that mic build quality is terrifying.
Hi Robert, your Video was very helpful for me. After seeing many other Videos about the Portacapture X8, your video was the last one i've watched. After that i bought the Tascam Portacapture X8. ;-) So thank you very much for your entertaining review. Greetings from Hamburg Rudi
Hello! Have you ever worked on sed or for a real production? Just working well isn't the only requirement for professional gear. It needs to be strong and durable, too.
I waited for a sale or a price adjustment, I was on the fence, and surprisingly the price dropped 30% less than the price you quoted, plus I did order the TASCAM AK-BT1 Bluetooth Adapter, it's a must-have for timecode. I always use high-performance cards, so no problems in that area. So far I'm very pleased with the unit, I do agree with you, that the microphones are on the cheap side, but they'll work.
You've hooked me to your honest reviews with this review... The first ive seen of yours. Ill be back before my next purchase! Subscribed. 👍🏼 Thank you!
Great Review. As you demonstrated, you can send any signal into the X8, and if the gain is to high, it's going to distort. Hence, 32bit float will always be able to be useful.
I'm at 9:08 when you're talking about clipping. If the mic, digital or analog, receives input that exceeds its capacity, it distorts, clips whatever. Then that signal gets to the recorder, it is not going to magically heal itself because you're using a 32-bit sample. That signal is done like dinner. Regarding the digital path: if you've recorded it properly, i.e., it stays below 0dB, putting it into a 32-bit package just adds, so to speak, a bunch of zeros on the end of the very large, floating point number that represents each sample. Probably not a perceptible difference.
I own the Tascam X8 you review here. I think you spend too much time on the quality of the mic capsules. My main concern is are they good mics, and they are very good mics. I had purchased the Zoom H8 before I purchased the Tascam X8 and it has much better build quality for the mics, but the mics were very low in sensitivity. The X8 plastic mic sensitivity is exceptional, which surprised me, because the Zoom H8 mics are so solid. I write music and perform original songs and using the Zoom H8 was a pain because it had to be set right in front of my guitar within a foot to pic up my voice and guitar on the X-Y mics. With the Tascam X8, I can set the unit 3' away and it picks up very both the guitar and my vocals very well. The interface on the Tascam X8 is exceptionally easy to use compared to Zoom H8. The H8 simply is a pain in the ass to use. For example, you have to push the record button twice to record (same as Tascam). But several times I was all set up to record a song, I would push the Zoom record button twice, and the damn thing would not start recording. This happened so often, I returned it. However, when I did get it to record, the audio quality was very good. It is also confusing to select the Khtz levels and bit levels that you want to record on the Zoom H8. It is fairly easy to set them on the Tascam X8. Really there is no comparison, the Tascam X8 blows the Zoom H8 out of the water. It is a hundred times more easy to use. You can record at higher quality settings. The Music App is fantastic for singer songwriters. You can add after effects that are important, like reverb. The audio record quality is very good. The touch screen is large and responsive. You can operate the entire recorder via blutooth remote (the Zoom H8 only allows partial control of the recorder via Bluetooth and you have to use an IOS, Apple device). The Tascam X8 is just leagues better than the Zoom H8.
Thanks for your comment. I disagree on the length of time I spent on the mics. Simply put, you could use the chapter buttons to skip around. Yet, more importantly, you paid 500 bucks for your X8 and got poorly built mics. How do you think companies will change if we accept poor quality from expensive items? Answer: you won't get any change if you don't point it out. Next thing, you can make your own review. Just so we are clear, I didn't ask anyone to give me feedback on how to make a video. The audience isn't the producer. I'm not interested in how you think I should make a video. I am interested in seeing your video on the X8. Please make one and post the link to review here. I'd like to see it. I can promise you that any comment I have will not be a suggestion on how to do it better. Once you start making videos you'll get it. You seem to have completely overlooked that I said that I thought the sound quality was good, and possibly excellent. So, no issue there. I also agree that the X8 beats the F8, but the the price difference and extensive interchangeable mic capsules may be useful to some. So, I can see the advantage to other people. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm I think you have misunderstood my comment to you. I AGREE with you that the mics on the Tascam X8 are plastic, and compared to the Zoom H8 mics are steel,. The X8 mics do feel cheap. The Zoom H8 mics are much higher quality materials. I think you should mentioned it - it is an important point. I don't think you should have dwelled on it as long as you did. If the mics did not produce great sound in the X8, THEN it would have been more of an issue. You're right, I spent $500.00 in the X8, but that really is not a lot of money for a 32 bit audio recorder with a revolutionary touch screen interface. I am willing to put up with plastic mics as a trade off for the amazing features that the Tascam X8 provides. For my uses, the X8 is simply a tool, and it is a tool that does its job exceptionally well. I would not want to pay $300.00 more to make it "drop proof," but perhaps Tascam will offer an all metal version in the future. As you mentioned, there will probably be accessory mics that can be added to the X8 in the future because they have a universal plug-in. So X8 owners will probably be able to upgrade their onboard mics in the future if they feel the need to. The bottom line is that the Tascam X8 mics work as good or better than the Zoom H8 mics, probably better. Tascam has stated that these X-Y mics have the largest speaker diaphragm of any in their line up. So Tascam concentrated on making the mics WORK exceptionally well. THAT is what matters to me when I am recording music. I can live with the plastic because the mics record great sound and have very good sensitivity. By comparison, the H8 mics had lower sensitivity and average sound.
@Frank Lnog Thanks for clarifying. I understand what you're saying. I don't think i spennt too long on it for the reasons I stated before. If Zoom can include metal Mics and a whole array of high quality mic capsules for less money, the Tascam can do the exact same. We, the customer, have paid more for less in the build department of the mic's on the X8. I use my field recorders in the field, that is, I take my field recorders on weddings and every event I go on. I need better build quality on the mic's. The reason I took the mic apart was because I though I broke the mic when I was inserting the mic into the slot. I have many Zoom products and they all have well built microphones. I believbe that the Zoom microphones perform just as well as the Tascam X8. I feel like the X8 may have a little more detail in the high end when I record my accoustic guitar. Maybe that's me. I like both Zoom and Tascam in this comparision. Most of the time I will use the Avantone CK1 for instruments (and voice too, sometimes). As for 32 bit float, you could have picked up the Zoom F3 for less if you already have a mic and only need 2 inputs. Either way the 32 bit float is nice, but really not needed for studio work. Just set your levels right and you're goood to go. You should make a video about your equipment. People love to see that stuff. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm I understand what you are saying, and you make good points. Having owned the Zoom H8, I am aware that there is a significant difference in quality of materials between the onboard mics. You are correct. When I first got the Tascam X8, I was a little stunned myself because the Zoom H8 mics are solid metal and the Tascam are light plastic. But after evaluating how the Tascam mics perform, I didn't care, because they are superb mics. Tascam states that these are the largest, most dynamic mics they have ever put on a portable recorder, and they do out-perform the Zoom H8 mics. I think you don't quite understand the cost issue. The large touchscreen on the Tascam X8 is probably the most expensive component of the unit by far. It has to be outsourced because Tascam doesn't have the capability of manufacturing it. This is why that Tascam is more expensive than the Zoom H8. Also, Tascam upped the size and audio capability of their X-Y mics on the unit, this adds cost. Tascam also added the most popular digital audio effects to the X8 like reverb is added to their music app. Nearly ALL singers and musicians use reverb in their recordings. For podcasting, the X8 adds the ability to add sound intros and breaks to your podcasts - which nearly every podcaster does. With A Zoom F3 won't even begin to do the things that the Tascam X8 can do. The Tascam costs more because it does a LOT more than competing units. Hell in many ways this unit does more than the Zoom F8 and Sound Devices recorders will do and they cost $500 to $1500 more than the X8. When you judge the price, you should take into account all of the functions and capabilities of a device. Judging the Tascam X8 based on the mic build-quality alone is not a realistic or fair comparison. Also, I doubt that if you take the X8 into the field that it is going to be more fragile than the Zoom H8. The Zoom H8's design is VERY fragile. It appears that if you drop it once, that you are going to break off one of the connectors. So I don't agree that the plastic mics will break more easily than the Zoom mics in the field. The outside of the metal mics will certainly take more abuse, the inner diaphragm material is delicate and will damage easily on both units, as will the electrical connections. Neither the X8 nor the Zoom H8 are built to be dropped. As I mentioned, my $1300.00 Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is not built to be dropped. So I don't agree that the Tascam is less durable than its Zoom competitors. I have not dropped the Zoom H8 or the Tascam X8 that I own (I returned the Zoom H8). So I have no real-world experience with dropping either units. I would guess that protective cases for the Tascam X8 will be ubiquitous on Amazon soon if they are not already. If you are accident prone, probably this would be a good option for you.
I have to say, I have never owned such expensive and excellent mics.. I have worked with people that did have such mics in the past. My experience with that class of equipment is limited. For what I do, weddings, local commercial media for small businesses, and TH-cam videos, I have tended to seek out more mobile "camera top" solutions. I generally like Zoom for these tasks. Switching to the Portacapture was an easy transition and brought with it several physical and sound quality improvements. Cheers.
Firstly, thank you for the review, it's great. I just have to mention something: from music sound design I know that lead vocal should be mixed down to mono and panned to center (unless I want to be experimental intentionally). Now I know why. I've been listening to your video in headphones. Most of your video is recorder in stereo? Or its panned in the post? It does not sound good - it feels like I'm deaf by one ear (right ear). Unsettling feeling. I can imagine it would work for a TV. Note to myself: always mix vocals/speech down to mono/center.
Lovely Vid... I learned a lot. Thanks. Thought that the sun shone out of my Zoom F5. .. Just got this, and I am blowing my mind....Although I totally agree with your "Cons" Section (Subbed you).
Thanks for the detailed video. Does the device still have the ultrasonic tone issue in the higher frequencies when recording at 96k/192khz? (can be seen as a horizontal line in spectral view).
Your digital microphone signal is converted to analog before passing it to the recorder which then reconverts it to digital so the bit depth and sample rate of the wireless signal is insignificant in determining whether or not you’ll clip the Tascam
I'm generally not a fan of plastic construction if for no other reason than just the feel of things. That said it is easy to forget how strong plastic can be given its weight. There is definitely a curve where the added weight and rigidity of metal becomes a liability in the case of something like a drop. Plastic can flex and absorb the shock and being lighter means that for the same drop distance there is less energy to be dissipated. Physics can be tricky that way. The cynic in me wants to say it is cheap manufacturing but there is always the possibility it was a calculated tradeoff. Heck, it may even be a matter of it being preferable for the relatively cheap mic to break off than transfer impact energy to the internals.
I agree with you. My initial impressions still stand that it is made of plastic and feels cheap, compared to other recorders at a similar price, but it has held up remarkably well. The mics provide excellent sound quality as well. They have held up great over my time using it. The plastic build has saved it in a drop or two as well. It was a good purchase and I'm glad I have it.
You can overdub on x8 …it’s called punch in/out on the device …would have been nice for tascam to make us aware of this but somehow I got lucky and figured it out…works well
Greetings. Thanks for the video. I already have the x8 and I love it. Thanks for the 💡 about those Saramonic mics! I was wondering if you were able to get them and if so, how are they in comparison to the Tascam condensers?
Thanks for following up. I appreciate it. I never did get them. I plan on it some day. I have kind of been amazed with the sound quality from the Tascam mics. Although I wish the build quality was better, they haven't broken. I do have some microphones that are similar to the Saramonic mics but mad by Comica. I did use them in place of the Tascam microphones to see how they sounded, and I thought the Tascam was better. That's as far as I got so far. Happy Thanksgiving.
Dude...... Tascam KNOWS verrrrry few pros have ever / will ever use the uni mics on the DR / Porta platform. At least now they are removable / optional.
I don't know about that. The mics have really nice sound quality, just a cheap build. I think they included them with the intent that pros or anyone would use them. I like them a lot.
100% agree. A £400-500 device shouldn't be made of plastic. I had the DR100 MKiii and that was all metal, felt very premium. The X8, build wise, feels like downgrade. I'm glad I got some insurance! Features and sound, can't really fault it.
I'm a musician and have a Tascam DP-008EX for Multi-Track recording. I'm wanting the Portacapture X8 because it is portable, compact and very cool. Can you tell me if I can record layered tracks? I will record a Stereo Backing Track on 1 & 2,... then overdub Stereo Drums on Track 3 & 4,... then Rhythm Guitar on Track 5,... Lead Guitar on Track 6,... Vocals or anything else on 7 & 8. Then I will tinker with levels and panning and come up with some pretty nifty projects for my personal enjoyment. And once in a while send MP3 tracks to my friends via eMail or Social Media. Will this unit allow this type of recording (layering and overdubbing) or should I stick to my trusty old DP-008? Ohhhhh yeah, great video it was very helpful and informative, nice work Robert!!!
Hello Rick. Glad you like the video. No.. not exactly.. you can record 6 channels in manual mode. Channel 1 and 2 are the onboard mics which use a 1/8" connector. So if you wanted to split those channels from the stereo default, you could. You could also take the mic capsules off and plug in external mics with a 1/8" adapter.. for example to 1/4" or XLR.. whatever you want. Channels 3-6 are the standard combo jacks. Channels 7 and 8 are Bluetooth and AUX. Bluetooth and AUX use up one of your other channels, like 6 and 4. So.. if you use aux, you loose channel 4 and if you use Bluetooth you loose channel 6. You can not use all 8 channels at the same time. That has been my experience. If you (or anyone reading this) know a way around this limitation, please post it. So.. 8 channels at once, no. But, 6? Yes. Mixdown, punch in, and punch out is supported in the mixer after a recording has been made. It works ok for light editing on the go, but you wouldn't want to try and mix an album that way.. but it "could" do it. You will have a lot of control over EQ, compression, limiters, and some other effects on all channels. I like the tone, compression, and EQ on vocals and guitar. It's pretty good. The 32bit float will be the most help in desktop editing. Should you overmodulate or set your levels wrong, you will be saved. Good luck and cheers.
I have a Zoom H8, its biggest two cons in comparison to the portacapture are the lack of 32 bit float and the ability to remotely control device settings on Android based devices, something with which Zoom refuses to embrace. My wishlist for these field recorders is low latency wireless audio transmission capability. I want to place the H8 inside a piano, remotely control the audio levels, and wirelessly transmit that audio to something like a video camera or even an Atem Mini for live broadcast. The mic capsule build quality on the Tascam is a huge disappointment and honestly, the major reason I haven't pulled the trigger on one. I rely on my mic capsule for the Zoom H8 to pick up audio for a person speaking. I realize this isn't the greatest solution, but I am not impressed with the current microphone options. I am currently considering the DJI Mic, but as with all new tech, availability is a problem on the DJI Mic. The Tascam appeals to me because I would like to be able to stick the recorder on a stand, stick it in front of the podium with a couple mics plugged into the side for recording the piano, wirelessly send that audio into an Atem Mini or a camera, and be able to mix the sound from the back of the room.
I don't have a lot of experience mic'ing pianos, but my grandmother has a baby grand piano and I've opened it up several times. I guess you could get an H8 in there. However, I'll leave that to you. Please let me know how it turns out. For now, though, know that the small diaphragm microphones that come ont he portacapture may be made cheaply, but they sound great! I can't believe that they sound as good as they do for their build quality. So, if you were giving the X8 a pass because of the build quality, I would say think again. I stand by what I said in the video, that for $500 the capsule build quality is an insult. But i also stand by my statement that they are good and very good. In fact, after recording a lot with them, trying out different wind screens and covers, I have come to really like their ability to pick up sound. I play a lot of guitar and the 14mm diaphragm capsules are kind of medium in size. maybe they are a little small for medium, actually, but they definitely are large for the typical capsule on a field recorder (with the exception of most zoom mic capsules like the XyH6. That's about the same size diaphragm). That is to say that the capsules on the X8 pick up my account guitars very well, and my voice, too. As for an app and remote control, you could get an extension for the zoom connection for around 75 bucks and put your mic in the piano while leaving your recorder body outside of the piano. But I think what I would do Is get a couple of Tascam TM80 mics and some XLR cables and run them in front of the open section of the side of the piano while it's playing. You could put them on stands and boom the arm over the strings. I like the TM80 and it's pretty inexpensive but built like a tank. I did a video about it where I took that mic apart. Run them into your H8 and use your mic capsule for some room tone or put it under the piano. Well, maybe don't put it under the piano, lol. But you get what I'm saying. If you're on a budget, get a pair of the Beringer C02 pencil mics to go with the TM80. That should be a nice setup and cost way less than jumping into the X8. 32bit is legit, however, but don't think you're missing out. You can always record a safety track on the H8. I've done that for years even before 32bit came out. Just set your levels right and you will be good to go. But once you have 32bit, it'll be a tool you only use in certain situations. That is to say, you don't always need it. The most normal time I need it is when I'm running audio and don't have the time to stay on the levels. That's when I set it and forget it. Those times are few and far between because they are like small emergences. As in for some reason I can't set the levels properly, because some action just starts unexpectedly and all I can do is hit record. For your piano, you should be able to mic it perfectly. Cheers!
What are the exact specifications on the micro sd cards that the Tascam X8 will accept? Out of three micro sd cards that I just tried to use in my brand new X8, it is not accepting two of them but they work fine in my drone and my DR-10L. Anybody know what the magic combination of specs is or what cards are you using? 1. Sandisk 32GB A1 / UHS-I / V30 / U3 / Class 10 = This works 2. Sandisk 128GB A1 / UHS-I / V10 / U1 / Class 10 = This will not work 3. Sandisk 256GB A2 / UHS-I / V30 / U3 / Class 10 = This will not work
Hi Robert, Thanks for the insightful review. I am looking for a microphone to record interviews (Investigator - suspect/informant). While the audio will be permanently recorded to a downstream video device (such as an NVR), I like the idea of the microphone being a 'failsafe' device -in that there is a backup copy of the audio on the SD card. So my questions are: 1. Do you think the X8 could be permanently powered by using the USB power in? 2. Can I use the line out to simultaneously provide audio to the downstream device and record to the SD? I think you have answered that. 3. Ease of use: I want the investigator to simply stop and start (the audio) recording using the 'red' button. The key is to have a super simple and foolproof process -do you think this device would be overly complex? If the recording is stopped - does it mute the line-out audio at the same time? Not a dealbreaker... Best wishes from New Zealand.
Hello, thanks for your question. Yes to all. You can power via USBC indefinitely, you can use the line out and record at the same time, and you can set the device to start/stop a recording with a single press of the record button or two presses. It would be a good option for you with the onboard microphones and additional inputs.
Also, the line out is always active. It does not mute the output when the recording is stopped. You can set it up to work that way, but I don't use it that way. It is easy to access that function as part of the pre-record feature.
Maybe Tascam will sell a X8 microphone upgrades/options (in the future as you mention) I am using the Tascam DR-40 and I like that I can power it via a USB powerbank, so I've never run out of battery power when out recording.
You can use it as a multi track recorder, but it is not a DWA. It's lacking many for the features a DAW would provide. But basic levels, some limiters, compression, and EQ is available. There is also the ability to mix down, but it's kind of clunky, actually. I would simply use it as an advanced multi track recorder and be happy.
While the quality of the mic capsules IS a disappointment, for me, the high frequency noise reported by some folks is the deal breaker. The main reason to have 192khz sampling is to down-pitch samples for sound design, and those noise frequencies become audible at that point. Do you know if that issue ever got fixed?
I haven't experienced it. I have recorded some sounds for sound design, but nothing that required pitching down. I don't see any bands in Sufition above 20k, but I'm also not usually looking for it. For recording voice and as a mic, it works great. The capsules could be better, but they sound very good to my ears. Very articulate and clear on voices and guitar especially.
Hi - thanks for the video! just wondering did you ever replace the the microphone shotgun capsules? Did you ever receive a response or mics from Saramonic? I’d like to know how that worked out. Also do you still enjoy the x8? I’m new to the audio world and would appreciate any advice.
Thanks for your question. No and no. In fact, I would say that although I would still prefer better build quality overall, the entire unit, especially the microphones, has proven to be very robust. I find the sound quality of the microphones to be excellent. I'm quite pleased with the whole thing. My big complaint with the mic build quality has a lot to do with the price of the device and what the competition provides at a similar price point. Zoom buc build quality is excellent. I would have liked for Tascam to mirror that. It was surprising to see the images of the XY microphone capsules as silver, tending my thinking toward metal; just to find out that they were plastic. I could go on. However, I have found that they are great just they way they are. They may even be better considering that I've dropped the unit from hip and camera on tripod height a couple of times and nothing has broken or dented.. this is directly related to the plastic build. So, maybe it's better and my complaints were unjustified. I will say that every quality microphone I have ever bought have been metal. Or it has had a metal housing. Imagine buying a Rode NTG and it being made of plastic. I suppose that was my overall point. The build quality was something I expected to be better because I thought it felt cheaply built. I don't believe that anymore. It's not solid like a metal unit, not even as solid feeling as the H6n to me, but it has proven to be my go to recorder- mics and all. And I like it a lot. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm Thank you so much for your response! Based on your video (& several others) I decided to move forward with purchasing the Tascam X8 yesterday. ::Shrugs:: This will be my first recording device and I am thrilled to hear you still enjoy using Tascam X8. Also glad to hear it has been thoroughly tested it in the field (aka you went ahead and dropped it for me). The plastic build quality was a reiterated as a concern by many early adapters of the X8 but I am willing to compromise for the improved sound quality and the fool-proof software it may provide. (Also, I found one for below $300, almost the same price as the x6). I was terrified that I was making the wrong decision, but I really do want something that is "run and gun" ready since I have zero audio engineering experience. I have already clipped a lot of audio files. It's super rad that you took the time to respond! Thanks again! Best - K
Sure, they are amazing monitors: Dell Ultrasharp 43" 4k: amzn.to/3xTzwqj Dell Ultrasharp 25" 4k with 90° swivel stand: amzn.to/3xUrsFL You will like them, especially if you do a lot of content creation.
I saw those Saramonic mic capsules you referred to for the X8. do you think it would work? do agree with you it can be frustrating to get use to. I haven't got used to it yet. I just bought it
Thanks for watching and your question. If have to say that I believe the satanic mics could be useful, but, after over a year of using the X8 in the field, with all the drops and bumps that come along with that activity, the included mics have worked out great. Yes, I would have preferred something with a higher build quality even though something on the level of Zoom mic capsules would be a great improvement. All in all, I like the sound and they have held up. Good job to Tascam. I like the X8 a lot.
Not that I'm aware of, but through firmware updates there seem to be fewer issues with the launcher. I haven't noticed anything lately that makes it difficult to use. Well, I wish they would give us overdubbing and track bouncing in the multitrack recorder mode from mixed down and overdub. That would be nice. That way you could use the two inbuilt microphones to record music sounds or whatever, and then move that recording to the unused tracks. Currently, this is not possible. So if you don't have a microphone plugged into input 5, you won't record anything on input number five.
@@RobertHamm Could it maybe bounce tracks to a single file and then start a new project and import that file to an empty track? A sort of roundabout way?
i just bought one, but after seeing your video i don't know if i did the right choice. I will use it to record voice and guitar live, maybe even outside, and i saw some inccredible sound samples. do you think it's better than the zomme H6 for this use ? the mixing part of the Tascam is nice but not mandatory i would say, i will have to edit video so a little sound editiing first on computer is not an issue
It's a great recorder. After lots of use and using it for almost a year, maybe a year already, I'd say that the sound quality is amazing, I enjoy the mixing capabilities, and the build quality has not been an issue like I thought it would be. There was also a price drop from 499 to 399, and that seems to be the sweet spot. You made a good choice. Cheers.
Say I've recorded 6 Chanels at once. Next day I want to play the 6 channel mix back on device. Is this easy to do? Will it remember the whole mix on playback? Or do I have to manually select all of the files?
Yes, just bring the file up that you want to play and switch over to the mixer screen and make adjustments as you see fit. If you want to save the new mix as a new file, you can do that as well.
Just getting started and trying to make the best of my budget while also future proofing. (I've come to realize that buying cheap/intro tools has always come back to bite me.) I was stuck between the H4n pro and the X8. The lower cost of the H4n was promising since it'd allow me to buy 1-2 additional mics for the same price as the X8. Was there anything in particular that you disliked about the H4's? Something that might come to bite me?
I would stay away from the h4. Any of the model, and just jump up to the h5n at the minimum. Stage 4 Pro got a screen update, and a little bit of a body redesign, but not much else. The buttons are clicky, which means they make noise when you press them, and the handling noise is terrible. Not to mention zoom is known for detachable microphone capsules. So you would be missing the headline feature for having a zoom product. If that were the case I believe Tascam would give you better preamps.
Thank you for the review. The zoom h6 built in xy mics have incredible range for a small concert ambience from a distance(6-10feet) based on what I’ve heard on TH-cam, albeit I’m looking for a recorder with built in xy mics that also includes 32bit float. Would you say the x8 xy mic is comparable?
I have the Zoom h6 and the tascam X8. The build quality of the zoom mics are better, and you're right, I have found them to be excellent. I like the XY and AB patterns you can get just by rotating them. It's pretty cool. The X8 has excellent microphones. Maybe even better. I have tested them side by side and found it difficult to tell a difference. Although the X8 microphones don't have the same build quality, they have stood up to in the field use and being dropped. This is something I thought would be a problem when I first received my unit. It turned out to be a non-issue. And changing them from XY to AB pattern is pretty simple. Plus I like the fact that if I want to I can take one of the microphones, or both of the microphones, out of the X8 and then plug in an eighth inch Jack from another microphone. So, that's a neat benefit. I have not used that benefit though. But it is possible. Hope this helps. Cheers.
Thank you for the quick response! I was curious about those mics, since I wanted something comparable to the h6 built in mics but with 32bit. Thanks again.
I've never found it to be a problem. I'm not sure I've even got that problem. There was a big fuss about it when it was first released, but I think they fixed it. I've never seen it pop up in Audition when I've been mixing sound. Also, it's outside of human hearing range. So, I never gave it a second thought.
The fact that with the 2020 Zoom H6 Black Edition they stuck with MINI B for data is inexcusable. WHY? MINI B OF ALL THINGS. I had to go hunting for MINI B cables from when I had a PSP. Even then that was only for data transferring and hacking. COMICA holy cow, what a great find that was for me. Some real weird (cool) products at a not absurd price. I prefer their wireless to the Rode Wireless Go 2. I looked up the XU QUad yeah the X-U fleat cheaper to me but I did like the X-D version. Also the fact that you had to be cognizant of which way the antenna arm swung out was also annoying.
This isn't an iPod. It's a field recorder. It will play back whatever you record with it, including recordings from a computer or other device, with whatever settings you have set. It is a capture device, not a playback device. Although you can play files back and do some working on the devices the files are captured with the intent of finalization in a mastering program. So playing back lossless isnt something that would happen at the capture stage. The device captures audio in upto 32bit float at 182khz sample rate. That's more like raw compared to lossless.
We will be recording our bands gigs with the X8, crowed/moshpit view and sometimes from the mixer (strangely, there is no one recording their band or gig with the X8, on YT anyway, which is very strange) Can you record to a Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 2TB or similar also? (edit: 3.5mmm jacks huh? MM Rode mics he he) And what is the best SD card for the X8? Thanks.
You know, I just though that iw would record to an SSD over usbc, but it wont. I tried it and checked the specs online. I use a 512 SDXC card and call it a day. When recoering in 32bit float, you don't really have to worry about setting your levels... but that's not exactly correct either. 32bit float isn't a walkaway and your good to fix in post kind of thing, although that's exactly how easy it is. For the Pit and what you are talking about recording, 32bit float will be helpful without a doubt because it will allow you to record souonds over 0Db. that means you will be able to record overmodulated sound. You will also be able to recover very low volume sounds. BUT.. You have to consider the environment. You're going to pick up everything. So, although you could set it to 32 bit float and probably be ok to fix it in post, if you take the time to set your levels right in the dirst place, then you wont have to worry so much about 32bit float saving you. Basically, if you choose to "do it in post" you are moving your entire workflo to post production AND, if you don't set your levels up properly in the first place, nicing the band, drums, but, area, ect... then you are just creating more work for yourself in the long run. Also, other than professional software and hardware, you won't have any way to listen back to your recording in 32bit float. Your cellphone wont play the file, neither will your computer (most of the time.. like regular media player or movies and TV app on windows} does not currently support native 32bit floar playback.. so the only device you will be able to play back on is premiere, audition, the portacapture, ect.. So, you'll have to set your levels properly to hear it in the first place, and if you take the time to do that you can just as easily make a sual recording in 24bit. The 24bit recording will play anywhere. As long as the 24bit recording is good, then no need to mess with the 32bit file. So, that's my suggestion. Unless you need the 192 sample rate, the record in 32bit gfloat with a 24bit dual recording. You will have to use 48 or 96Khz sample rate, maybe only 48, i cant remember rignt this moment, but you will get the 32bit file if you need it, and have a 24 bit file if you dont. Easy.
@@RobertHamm Outstanding, thank you very much Sir :) Do you know if it can be rendered in Shotcut? I'll be testing before hand any way, well before the gig :) Thanks again.
I have not used Shotcut, but did look it up real quick. Looks interesting. As for 32bit float, I could not find anything definitive. SOme people say that they can and others that the can't (when looking on the forums). Google it yourslef and let me know. I think that the dual record feature of the X8 would help you here. I know that Shotcut can handle 24 bit. The tascam would give you both 24 bit and 32 bit. So, you would bee good to go and use Shotcut as long as you use the dual record function. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm The xy mics are junk, throw them away as soon as you get this! Save your self some grief!! The Boya BY-a100 is a great replacement. Or use an xlr to 3.5mm jack cable and use a $1000 mic or what ever mic you like through the 1-2. I record my sons band Ahiru, it's on YT, he's the bass player. I mix it in with the iPhone 15 phone sound, which is awesome btw. I use 2 Behringer xm5800, I have just brought a Rode videomic go ii and a blimp for windy days. Boya BY-MM1 is actually great for recording in a loud environment like a gig. EQ everything you don't need out and in. I also record our friends band Poly& Co, also Hillbilly Skank with the Portacapture X8, both on YT. Oh, and yes the 32bit float works in Shotcut just fine.
Thank you for the in depth information and insights. I am carefully studying this type of device to just record separately and combine with the G9 outdoor videos later. I am a beginner and don't have a computer that can be used for this work right now. I know that this is very am amateur but do you think that it's possible to output the captured audio into the camera mic in and synch it? Thanks
It is and that's not an amateur way to do it at all. That's one of the best ways to do it. You can also sync the camera audio and Tascam audio in post on your phone or iPad if you use LumaFusion or iMovie. The best way to so it would be to send the audio out from the Tascam to the mic on on your camera. Then it's already synced. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm Thank you. Perhaps more specifically, I meant can I record the audio on the tascam ( not wired to the camera at all ) the video on the camera, and do the post video sync just with those two devices? No tablet or computer. Thanks
No. That does not work. You won't be able to do that. That would be like saying you have a coffee cup on your table and coffe in a coffee pot and you would want the coffee pot to pour into the cup without you touching it. It's not possible. Also, asking the question reveals that you may be very new to video produciton. That's not a problem, but it tells me that this is a developing skill for you. You need to connect a couple more dots for it all to make sense. I can help you with that. Email me.
I almost did the same thing. That's one of the reasons I think they should have been made to a higher durability standard. However, in my use, they haven't broken yet. I've taken them all over the place and recorded quite a few events with them, done some sound recordings, I use them all the time in the studio for ambient mics of my recordings. I really like how they sound. I just wish they were built better. Heck, I would even be happy if you could buy replacements as a part. However, Tascam does not allow that at this point.
Please keep in mind how I use my recorders: for weddings, interviews, and field recording. This means I need the 32 but float because it simplifies my workload. Whenever I live stream, that requirement is not important because I have to set my levels properly so the viewers can hear. So the 32 bit recordongs aren't as important in that application. Even considering that, the easy answer is the X8. The features alone make it the better choice and that's even before you consider the 32bit hloat recording. I feel like the unit is much more responsive to interaction, such as navigation, reviewing, splitting/"editing" clips, and changing settings. If you were to ask me about price, I would say that the H5n is hard to beat. The H6 issue is with the interface. It's slow and the screen isn't bright for outdoor sunlight use. But it has physical dials and pads that make the screen visibility a non issue for me. If you were to ask me about recording and if 32 bit was soo much better I would say that it definitely is, but if you know about audio, or want to take a little time experimenting and learning, there is little that a 32 bit recorder will give you over a 24 bit recorder. In fact, the peace of mind you get from not clipping can easily be made up on a 24 bit recorder by enabling a safety track recording at a lower level. The 32 bit workflow takes more time to process and to get the benefit I have to go into Audition to take advantage of the extra dynamic range of the recording. Premiere pro only works with the 24bit processing of the 32bit file for now. Adobe will likely update that at some point if they haven't already. So, in short, the answer for me is the X8 because I can just press record and walk away. I don't have to monitor it. I know whatever audio it captures can be used because of the dynamic range of 32 bit float recording. Since I have been using mine, I have used it in 32 bit mode even when live streaming, but I've still gone through the practice of setting my levels properly. I have not lost any audio because of bad recordings because I set my audio properly. I have not had to take advantage of the 32 bit float benefits, however, the peace of mind I have knowing I have room if I mess up is priceless. I would say get whatever recorder you like. Don't worry about 32 bit unless you know you need it or just want it. You will love the X8. It's well made, feels balanced, and the mics sound great, even if I thought their build quality was questionable when I got mine. It's been wonderful and I haven't looked back since. I used all of my recorders, but the X8 the most. It does eat batteries, though. So keep that in mind. Please subscribe and let me know what you decide.
@@RobertHamm thank you for this response i am actually waiting for the h6 in the mail right now. However, i do everything you just mentioned , and , i can easily send it back and buy the x8. The 32bit float is something i was eyeing for sure, because during weddings people can be screaming at the mic during speeches and i need that ability to have the peace of mind that its not going to clip.
great video thanks! I've just bought the X8 and have a shoot coming up where they plan to use Tentacle Sync and send me audio timecode to sync up later in post. How do I mute the timecode monitor channel so I don't have it coming through the headphones?
Bought it for use with guitar what's the best way to record different tracks (layers) of guitar rhythm, leads, bass ect onto it, there's not much info out there on it and first time I have bought one of these
It has a 4 track mixer with doensampling built in to the app, but it's pretty limited. You wouldn't be attempting to record separate instrument tracks and then mix them together into a single sun output. The recorder isn't designed for that. You can, however, mix 6 different instruments at the same time using all of the inputs. You will have access to EQ, compression, levels/gain, stereo separation l/r, and others. So, if you were to record them all in one take you would have a lot more options with on device post production, but it's still going to be very limited. A better way to use the recorder is to record and bring the recordings into a DAW and set up your mix from there. Good luck.
Form factor and price. I was specifically looking for a field recorder, not a sound bag recorder. Not as important, but still part of the decision was price. $500 bucks was ok for me at the time. It has currently dropped in price to around $400 on sale. The F8 pro is considerably more expensive and a lot bigger. However, had Zoom come out with an updated H6 with touch screen around the same price and 32bit float, I would have probably bought that. I have a collection of zoom microphone modules that I would be able to use.
Yeah, completely agree. An update in case you were wondering. The mic capsules, although they feel cheaply made, perform very well. I really like them. I do, however, Generally use other microphones more often because of my workflow, but the included ones have turned out to be really good regardless of the build quality. Cheers.
Yes, but not like you think. It saves a new track and allows you to lunch in. I wish it could work better as a production device with overdubs, it's got everything else. But, no. It doesn't work well for that task.
Tascam DOES NOT SELL REPLACEMENT MIC CAPSULES for the Portacapture X8. How do I know? One of mine broke (I don't even know how it broke). I called Tascam's parts department. I was told, THEY DO NOT SELL REPLACEMENT CAPSULES, but do sell the individual parts that is used in the manufacturing to make a new capsule. They sent me a parts list for the capsule. There are more than 13 parts used to build the capsule. WTF? I don't want to solder parts together with wires and jigsaw the capsule's plastic parts together with tiny little screws. Just sell me a finished part to plug in the recorder. To EVERYONE ELSE, STAY AWAY FROM THIS RECORDER. I can see if Tascam was trying to make money off of parts they know their customer's will break, but it's worse, they are selling a product and have no way to provide parts that WILL break. It just feels like cash and grab. for $500, I am extremely disappointed. The Mic Capsules are the cheapest I have ever seen and will likley break because of how far they stick out. -SIDE NOTE- I was about to return my unit (with in the 30 day window since purchased), but Tascam had a new firmware update 1.20 , so I figured I'd try the new update in the field to see if it fixed some weird recording issues, and that's where my Mic broke. Never got a chance to try the recorder and now I cant return it. STAY AWAY people. I should of just bought the Zoom F3 for the 32bit float.
@@RobertHamm I managed to snag it for $100! I hope they don't cancel my order lol. I think what happened was - all the major outlets have $100 off 9.1.-9.30. and they accidentally made the price $100 instead $100 off! It was only like that since 9pm last night (morning on East Coast) until 9am this morning. Crazy :)
@@RobertHamm Very early this morning, around 6 or 7, it was showing as "on back order". I'm guessing a lot of people ordered and it went out of stock. Around 9 they put the price back up to $399. I just checked and it's still saying "we're preparing your order for shipment" and I've been charged $109. I'll let you know what happens, but it looks like I lucked out. Someone is getting fired though :(
I use the optional Bluetooth module for two reasons. You don't need to "run around" to see what your x8 is doing or change the settings it ALL can be done with on your phone with a direct clone of the screen. Also, timecode is very important to me and with Bluetooth you can jam the X8 to a master clock and sync in post is a snap. this is the only handheld recorder that currently does that.
Thanks for your comment. Timecode is sweet. I wish that Tascam would include a screen rotate feature for when I want to use the device and point the mic at me at the same time, lol. The app would solve that problem though... Cheers.
agree. it's not perfect but for 400$ currently it's a god sent especially that Float!
what do you use to jam timecode?
hey do you know if the bluetooth allows you to connect wireless headphones to it? thanks in advance
@@RobertHamm I had the same thought and can'tbelieve this isn't a thing yet. I was recording myself on guitar with a H4n PPro and basically had to navigate the device upside down!
Great review! I have been loving my X8. I upgraded from the h1n. FYI to anyone purchasing the Bluetooth adapter. I spent an hour trying to get it to work until I realized that the location had to be turned on, on the phone.
Thanks, I hate it when applications are so invasive and want our personal information like that.
The X8 is a game changer for me. I really like it. I'm even getting over the build quality of the onboard mics... still bothers me a little, but they perform so well for sound effects, spoken word, vocals, music... they really are good. Just cheap feeling. I usually use other mics anyway.. I don't have th eBT, so I didn't know that. Thanks for sharing. It's a great tip. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm yeah I agree the mics sound great and this thing has saved the day on many projects so far due to the 32bit. I change the mic config a lot so that mic build quality is terrifying.
that goes for all things now.
Hi Robert, your Video was very helpful for me. After seeing many other Videos about the Portacapture X8, your video was the last one i've watched. After that i bought the Tascam Portacapture X8. ;-) So thank you very much for your entertaining review.
Greetings from Hamburg
Rudi
That ka. I'm glad you found it helpful. Good luck with your recordings. Cheers.
Even if the build quality is terrible BUT it sounds good? HELLO! it works and does what it's supposed to do!
Hello! Have you ever worked on sed or for a real production? Just working well isn't the only requirement for professional gear. It needs to be strong and durable, too.
Great Information! Looked all around and no one explained it better than you did. Thanks!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Robert, I'm a trumpet player and was looking to do home recording. I think you've sold me on the X8. Thanks for the review.
I waited for a sale or a price adjustment, I was on the fence, and surprisingly the price dropped 30% less than the price you quoted, plus I did order the TASCAM AK-BT1 Bluetooth Adapter, it's a must-have for timecode. I always use high-performance cards, so no problems in that area. So far I'm very pleased with the unit, I do agree with you, that the microphones are on the cheap side, but they'll work.
Spectacular, my left ear enjoyed this.
You've hooked me to your honest reviews with this review... The first ive seen of yours. Ill be back before my next purchase! Subscribed. 👍🏼 Thank you!
I'm glad you like the video. Thanks.
This is an absolutely fantastic review - thanks very much.
Thanks..
Great Review. As you demonstrated, you can send any signal into the X8, and if the gain is to high, it's going to distort. Hence, 32bit float will always be able to be useful.
Yes, exactly. Thanks for the comment.
Great video can you post a link of the better mic capsule replacements?
I'm at 9:08 when you're talking about clipping. If the mic, digital or analog, receives input that exceeds its capacity, it distorts, clips whatever. Then that signal gets to the recorder, it is not going to magically heal itself because you're using a 32-bit sample. That signal is done like dinner. Regarding the digital path: if you've recorded it properly, i.e., it stays below 0dB, putting it into a 32-bit package just adds, so to speak, a bunch of zeros on the end of the very large, floating point number that represents each sample. Probably not a perceptible difference.
I own the Tascam X8 you review here. I think you spend too much time on the quality of the mic capsules. My main concern is are they good mics, and they are very good mics. I had purchased the Zoom H8 before I purchased the Tascam X8 and it has much better build quality for the mics, but the mics were very low in sensitivity. The X8 plastic mic sensitivity is exceptional, which surprised me, because the Zoom H8 mics are so solid. I write music and perform original songs and using the Zoom H8 was a pain because it had to be set right in front of my guitar within a foot to pic up my voice and guitar on the X-Y mics. With the Tascam X8, I can set the unit 3' away and it picks up very both the guitar and my vocals very well.
The interface on the Tascam X8 is exceptionally easy to use compared to Zoom H8. The H8 simply is a pain in the ass to use. For example, you have to push the record button twice to record (same as Tascam). But several times I was all set up to record a song, I would push the Zoom record button twice, and the damn thing would not start recording. This happened so often, I returned it. However, when I did get it to record, the audio quality was very good. It is also confusing to select the Khtz levels and bit levels that you want to record on the Zoom H8. It is fairly easy to set them on the Tascam X8.
Really there is no comparison, the Tascam X8 blows the Zoom H8 out of the water. It is a hundred times more easy to use. You can record at higher quality settings. The Music App is fantastic for singer songwriters. You can add after effects that are important, like reverb. The audio record quality is very good. The touch screen is large and responsive. You can operate the entire recorder via blutooth remote (the Zoom H8 only allows partial control of the recorder via Bluetooth and you have to use an IOS, Apple device). The Tascam X8 is just leagues better than the Zoom H8.
Thanks for your comment. I disagree on the length of time I spent on the mics. Simply put, you could use the chapter buttons to skip around. Yet, more importantly, you paid 500 bucks for your X8 and got poorly built mics. How do you think companies will change if we accept poor quality from expensive items? Answer: you won't get any change if you don't point it out. Next thing, you can make your own review. Just so we are clear, I didn't ask anyone to give me feedback on how to make a video. The audience isn't the producer. I'm not interested in how you think I should make a video. I am interested in seeing your video on the X8. Please make one and post the link to review here. I'd like to see it. I can promise you that any comment I have will not be a suggestion on how to do it better. Once you start making videos you'll get it.
You seem to have completely overlooked that I said that I thought the sound quality was good, and possibly excellent. So, no issue there. I also agree that the X8 beats the F8, but the the price difference and extensive interchangeable mic capsules may be useful to some. So, I can see the advantage to other people. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm I think you have misunderstood my comment to you. I AGREE with you that the mics on the Tascam X8 are plastic, and compared to the Zoom H8 mics are steel,. The X8 mics do feel cheap. The Zoom H8 mics are much higher quality materials. I think you should mentioned it - it is an important point. I don't think you should have dwelled on it as long as you did. If the mics did not produce great sound in the X8, THEN it would have been more of an issue.
You're right, I spent $500.00 in the X8, but that really is not a lot of money for a 32 bit audio recorder with a revolutionary touch screen interface. I am willing to put up with plastic mics as a trade off for the amazing features that the Tascam X8 provides.
For my uses, the X8 is simply a tool, and it is a tool that does its job exceptionally well. I would not want to pay $300.00 more to make it "drop proof," but perhaps Tascam will offer an all metal version in the future. As you mentioned, there will probably be accessory mics that can be added to the X8 in the future because they have a universal plug-in. So X8 owners will probably be able to upgrade their onboard mics in the future if they feel the need to.
The bottom line is that the Tascam X8 mics work as good or better than the Zoom H8 mics, probably better. Tascam has stated that these X-Y mics have the largest speaker diaphragm of any in their line up. So Tascam concentrated on making the mics WORK exceptionally well. THAT is what matters to me when I am recording music. I can live with the plastic because the mics record great sound and have very good sensitivity. By comparison, the H8 mics had lower sensitivity and average sound.
@@RobertHamm I don't make TH-cam videos on recording tools. I will be making TH-cam videos of my original songs in the future.
@Frank Lnog Thanks for clarifying. I understand what you're saying. I don't think i spennt too long on it for the reasons I stated before. If Zoom can include metal Mics and a whole array of high quality mic capsules for less money, the Tascam can do the exact same. We, the customer, have paid more for less in the build department of the mic's on the X8. I use my field recorders in the field, that is, I take my field recorders on weddings and every event I go on. I need better build quality on the mic's. The reason I took the mic apart was because I though I broke the mic when I was inserting the mic into the slot.
I have many Zoom products and they all have well built microphones. I believbe that the Zoom microphones perform just as well as the Tascam X8. I feel like the X8 may have a little more detail in the high end when I record my accoustic guitar. Maybe that's me. I like both Zoom and Tascam in this comparision. Most of the time I will use the Avantone CK1 for instruments (and voice too, sometimes).
As for 32 bit float, you could have picked up the Zoom F3 for less if you already have a mic and only need 2 inputs. Either way the 32 bit float is nice, but really not needed for studio work. Just set your levels right and you're goood to go.
You should make a video about your equipment. People love to see that stuff. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm I understand what you are saying, and you make good points. Having owned the Zoom H8, I am aware that there is a significant difference in quality of materials between the onboard mics. You are correct. When I first got the Tascam X8, I was a little stunned myself because the Zoom H8 mics are solid metal and the Tascam are light plastic. But after evaluating how the Tascam mics perform, I didn't care, because they are superb mics. Tascam states that these are the largest, most dynamic mics they have ever put on a portable recorder, and they do out-perform the Zoom H8 mics.
I think you don't quite understand the cost issue. The large touchscreen on the Tascam X8 is probably the most expensive component of the unit by far. It has to be outsourced because Tascam doesn't have the capability of manufacturing it. This is why that Tascam is more expensive than the Zoom H8. Also, Tascam upped the size and audio capability of their X-Y mics on the unit, this adds cost. Tascam also added the most popular digital audio effects to the X8 like reverb is added to their music app. Nearly ALL singers and musicians use reverb in their recordings. For podcasting, the X8 adds the ability to add sound intros and breaks to your podcasts - which nearly every podcaster does. With A Zoom F3 won't even begin to do the things that the Tascam X8 can do. The Tascam costs more because it does a LOT more than competing units. Hell in many ways this unit does more than the Zoom F8 and Sound Devices recorders will do and they cost $500 to $1500 more than the X8.
When you judge the price, you should take into account all of the functions and capabilities of a device. Judging the Tascam X8 based on the mic build-quality alone is not a realistic or fair comparison.
Also, I doubt that if you take the X8 into the field that it is going to be more fragile than the Zoom H8. The Zoom H8's design is VERY fragile. It appears that if you drop it once, that you are going to break off one of the connectors. So I don't agree that the plastic mics will break more easily than the Zoom mics in the field. The outside of the metal mics will certainly take more abuse, the inner diaphragm material is delicate and will damage easily on both units, as will the electrical connections. Neither the X8 nor the Zoom H8 are built to be dropped. As I mentioned, my $1300.00 Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra is not built to be dropped. So I don't agree that the Tascam is less durable than its Zoom competitors. I have not dropped the Zoom H8 or the Tascam X8 that I own (I returned the Zoom H8). So I have no real-world experience with dropping either units.
I would guess that protective cases for the Tascam X8 will be ubiquitous on Amazon soon if they are not already. If you are accident prone, probably this would be a good option for you.
Excellent video, my last sound design setup was 2 DPA 2006 C mics and a Prism Sound Atlas... but now I want something mobile and this looks good.
I have to say, I have never owned such expensive and excellent mics.. I have worked with people that did have such mics in the past. My experience with that class of equipment is limited. For what I do, weddings, local commercial media for small businesses, and TH-cam videos, I have tended to seek out more mobile "camera top" solutions. I generally like Zoom for these tasks. Switching to the Portacapture was an easy transition and brought with it several physical and sound quality improvements. Cheers.
Cool review! Much deeper than most. As an aside, your monitor set up give me a really good idea.😎🤘
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for your presentation.
Glad it was helpful!
Firstly, thank you for the review, it's great. I just have to mention something: from music sound design I know that lead vocal should be mixed down to mono and panned to center (unless I want to be experimental intentionally). Now I know why. I've been listening to your video in headphones. Most of your video is recorder in stereo? Or its panned in the post? It does not sound good - it feels like I'm deaf by one ear (right ear). Unsettling feeling. I can imagine it would work for a TV. Note to myself: always mix vocals/speech down to mono/center.
Can you make a video about using the X8 with a camera
Nice work Robert. Thanks for all the useful info.
Glad it was helpful!
This guy knows his trade . . . audio ninja . . .
Thanks.
Lovely Vid... I learned a lot. Thanks. Thought that the sun shone out of my Zoom F5. .. Just got this, and I am blowing my mind....Although I totally agree with your "Cons" Section
(Subbed you).
Glad it helped!
Thanks for the detailed video. Does the device still have the ultrasonic tone issue in the higher frequencies when recording at 96k/192khz? (can be seen as a horizontal line in spectral view).
Your digital microphone signal is converted to analog before passing it to the recorder which then reconverts it to digital so the bit depth and sample rate of the wireless signal is insignificant in determining whether or not you’ll clip the Tascam
Thanks for the info!
I'm generally not a fan of plastic construction if for no other reason than just the feel of things. That said it is easy to forget how strong plastic can be given its weight. There is definitely a curve where the added weight and rigidity of metal becomes a liability in the case of something like a drop. Plastic can flex and absorb the shock and being lighter means that for the same drop distance there is less energy to be dissipated. Physics can be tricky that way. The cynic in me wants to say it is cheap manufacturing but there is always the possibility it was a calculated tradeoff. Heck, it may even be a matter of it being preferable for the relatively cheap mic to break off than transfer impact energy to the internals.
I agree with you. My initial impressions still stand that it is made of plastic and feels cheap, compared to other recorders at a similar price, but it has held up remarkably well. The mics provide excellent sound quality as well. They have held up great over my time using it. The plastic build has saved it in a drop or two as well. It was a good purchase and I'm glad I have it.
Thank you. I wish Tascam would allow multitrack recording (not just multichannel), so musicians can overdub onto other tracks.
Me too.
You can overdub on x8 …it’s called punch in/out on the device …would have been nice for tascam to make us aware of this but somehow I got lucky and figured it out…works well
Excellent work. Thank you.
Many thanks!
So this is for podcasts and film? Should musicians stay clear of this model?
Thanks for the review. But you missed a very important topic. Does a receive timecode and does it waste a track. etc Thanks
Greetings. Thanks for the video. I already have the x8 and I love it. Thanks for the 💡 about those Saramonic mics! I was wondering if you were able to get them and if so, how are they in comparison to the Tascam condensers?
Thanks for following up. I appreciate it. I never did get them. I plan on it some day. I have kind of been amazed with the sound quality from the Tascam mics. Although I wish the build quality was better, they haven't broken. I do have some microphones that are similar to the Saramonic mics but mad by Comica. I did use them in place of the Tascam microphones to see how they sounded, and I thought the Tascam was better. That's as far as I got so far. Happy Thanksgiving.
Dude...... Tascam KNOWS verrrrry few pros have ever / will ever use the uni mics on the DR / Porta platform. At least now they are removable / optional.
I don't know about that. The mics have really nice sound quality, just a cheap build. I think they included them with the intent that pros or anyone would use them. I like them a lot.
100% agree. A £400-500 device shouldn't be made of plastic. I had the DR100 MKiii and that was all metal, felt very premium. The X8, build wise, feels like downgrade. I'm glad I got some insurance!
Features and sound, can't really fault it.
Thanks for your comment. I feel the same way.
32 bit float has a dynamic range of 1,500db--more than anyone would ever need--while 24 bit tops out at around 144db.
Great video, congrats! Did Tascam answer any of your questions?
The ks for your comment. No, I didn't hear back from Tascam.
I'm a musician and have a Tascam DP-008EX for Multi-Track recording. I'm wanting the Portacapture X8 because it is portable, compact and very cool. Can you tell me if I can record layered tracks? I will record a Stereo Backing Track on 1 & 2,... then overdub Stereo Drums on Track 3 & 4,... then Rhythm Guitar on Track 5,... Lead Guitar on Track 6,... Vocals or anything else on 7 & 8. Then I will tinker with levels and panning and come up with some pretty nifty projects for my personal enjoyment. And once in a while send MP3 tracks to my friends via eMail or Social Media. Will this unit allow this type of recording (layering and overdubbing) or should I stick to my trusty old DP-008? Ohhhhh yeah, great video it was very helpful and informative, nice work Robert!!!
Hello Rick. Glad you like the video. No.. not exactly.. you can record 6 channels in manual mode. Channel 1 and 2 are the onboard mics which use a 1/8" connector. So if you wanted to split those channels from the stereo default, you could. You could also take the mic capsules off and plug in external mics with a 1/8" adapter.. for example to 1/4" or XLR.. whatever you want. Channels 3-6 are the standard combo jacks. Channels 7 and 8 are Bluetooth and AUX. Bluetooth and AUX use up one of your other channels, like 6 and 4. So.. if you use aux, you loose channel 4 and if you use Bluetooth you loose channel 6. You can not use all 8 channels at the same time. That has been my experience. If you (or anyone reading this) know a way around this limitation, please post it. So.. 8 channels at once, no. But, 6? Yes.
Mixdown, punch in, and punch out is supported in the mixer after a recording has been made. It works ok for light editing on the go, but you wouldn't want to try and mix an album that way.. but it "could" do it.
You will have a lot of control over EQ, compression, limiters, and some other effects on all channels. I like the tone, compression, and EQ on vocals and guitar. It's pretty good.
The 32bit float will be the most help in desktop editing. Should you overmodulate or set your levels wrong, you will be saved.
Good luck and cheers.
Just read today you can’t overdub
You can over dub. Punch in and out@@daniel_mana
This video is very helpful. Would the Tascam X8 be a good choice for recording live bands?
I have a Zoom H8, its biggest two cons in comparison to the portacapture are the lack of 32 bit float and the ability to remotely control device settings on Android based devices, something with which Zoom refuses to embrace. My wishlist for these field recorders is low latency wireless audio transmission capability. I want to place the H8 inside a piano, remotely control the audio levels, and wirelessly transmit that audio to something like a video camera or even an Atem Mini for live broadcast. The mic capsule build quality on the Tascam is a huge disappointment and honestly, the major reason I haven't pulled the trigger on one. I rely on my mic capsule for the Zoom H8 to pick up audio for a person speaking. I realize this isn't the greatest solution, but I am not impressed with the current microphone options. I am currently considering the DJI Mic, but as with all new tech, availability is a problem on the DJI Mic. The Tascam appeals to me because I would like to be able to stick the recorder on a stand, stick it in front of the podium with a couple mics plugged into the side for recording the piano, wirelessly send that audio into an Atem Mini or a camera, and be able to mix the sound from the back of the room.
I don't have a lot of experience mic'ing pianos, but my grandmother has a baby grand piano and I've opened it up several times. I guess you could get an H8 in there. However, I'll leave that to you. Please let me know how it turns out. For now, though, know that the small diaphragm microphones that come ont he portacapture may be made cheaply, but they sound great! I can't believe that they sound as good as they do for their build quality. So, if you were giving the X8 a pass because of the build quality, I would say think again. I stand by what I said in the video, that for $500 the capsule build quality is an insult. But i also stand by my statement that they are good and very good. In fact, after recording a lot with them, trying out different wind screens and covers, I have come to really like their ability to pick up sound. I play a lot of guitar and the 14mm diaphragm capsules are kind of medium in size. maybe they are a little small for medium, actually, but they definitely are large for the typical capsule on a field recorder (with the exception of most zoom mic capsules like the XyH6. That's about the same size diaphragm). That is to say that the capsules on the X8 pick up my account guitars very well, and my voice, too.
As for an app and remote control, you could get an extension for the zoom connection for around 75 bucks and put your mic in the piano while leaving your recorder body outside of the piano. But I think what I would do Is get a couple of Tascam TM80 mics and some XLR cables and run them in front of the open section of the side of the piano while it's playing. You could put them on stands and boom the arm over the strings. I like the TM80 and it's pretty inexpensive but built like a tank. I did a video about it where I took that mic apart. Run them into your H8 and use your mic capsule for some room tone or put it under the piano. Well, maybe don't put it under the piano, lol. But you get what I'm saying. If you're on a budget, get a pair of the Beringer C02 pencil mics to go with the TM80. That should be a nice setup and cost way less than jumping into the X8. 32bit is legit, however, but don't think you're missing out. You can always record a safety track on the H8. I've done that for years even before 32bit came out. Just set your levels right and you will be good to go. But once you have 32bit, it'll be a tool you only use in certain situations. That is to say, you don't always need it. The most normal time I need it is when I'm running audio and don't have the time to stay on the levels. That's when I set it and forget it. Those times are few and far between because they are like small emergences. As in for some reason I can't set the levels properly, because some action just starts unexpectedly and all I can do is hit record. For your piano, you should be able to mic it perfectly. Cheers!
Dude, it's on Adorama right now for $100! I just got one.
What are the exact specifications on the micro sd cards that the Tascam X8 will accept? Out of three micro sd cards that I just tried to use in my brand new X8, it is not accepting two of them but they work fine in my drone and my DR-10L. Anybody know what the magic combination of specs is or what cards are you using?
1. Sandisk 32GB A1 / UHS-I / V30 / U3 / Class 10 = This works
2. Sandisk 128GB A1 / UHS-I / V10 / U1 / Class 10 = This will not work
3. Sandisk 256GB A2 / UHS-I / V30 / U3 / Class 10 = This will not work
Hi Robert, Thanks for the insightful review. I am looking for a microphone to record interviews (Investigator - suspect/informant). While the audio will be permanently recorded to a downstream video device (such as an NVR), I like the idea of the microphone being a 'failsafe' device -in that there is a backup copy of the audio on the SD card. So my questions are:
1. Do you think the X8 could be permanently powered by using the USB power in?
2. Can I use the line out to simultaneously provide audio to the downstream device and record to the SD? I think you have answered that.
3. Ease of use: I want the investigator to simply stop and start (the audio) recording using the 'red' button. The key is to have a super simple and foolproof process -do you think this device would be overly complex?
If the recording is stopped - does it mute the line-out audio at the same time? Not a dealbreaker...
Best wishes from New Zealand.
Hello, thanks for your question. Yes to all. You can power via USBC indefinitely, you can use the line out and record at the same time, and you can set the device to start/stop a recording with a single press of the record button or two presses. It would be a good option for you with the onboard microphones and additional inputs.
Also, the line out is always active. It does not mute the output when the recording is stopped. You can set it up to work that way, but I don't use it that way. It is easy to access that function as part of the pre-record feature.
Maybe Tascam will sell a X8 microphone upgrades/options (in the future as you mention) I am using the Tascam DR-40 and I like that I can power it via a USB powerbank, so I've never run out of battery power when out recording.
You can power the X8 with a battery pack. No problem.
Can i use the portacapture as a multitrack recorder, like a DAW
You can use it as a multi track recorder, but it is not a DWA. It's lacking many for the features a DAW would provide. But basic levels, some limiters, compression, and EQ is available. There is also the ability to mix down, but it's kind of clunky, actually. I would simply use it as an advanced multi track recorder and be happy.
While the quality of the mic capsules IS a disappointment, for me, the high frequency noise reported by some folks is the deal breaker. The main reason to have 192khz sampling is to down-pitch samples for sound design, and those noise frequencies become audible at that point. Do you know if that issue ever got fixed?
I haven't experienced it. I have recorded some sounds for sound design, but nothing that required pitching down. I don't see any bands in Sufition above 20k, but I'm also not usually looking for it. For recording voice and as a mic, it works great. The capsules could be better, but they sound very good to my ears. Very articulate and clear on voices and guitar especially.
If Robert Duzic can use it for sound design it surely isn't a problem.
I don't experience it. I've been using it for sound gathering and interviews. Do you have it?
I've read this is due to EM interference. When somebody did not bring his phone and any other EM generation devices, there was no HF noise.
Thanks!
Thanks for the Super, that's really appreciated!
Hi - thanks for the video! just wondering did you ever replace the the microphone shotgun capsules? Did you ever receive a response or mics from Saramonic? I’d like to know how that worked out. Also do you still enjoy the x8? I’m new to the audio world and would appreciate any advice.
Thanks for your question. No and no. In fact, I would say that although I would still prefer better build quality overall, the entire unit, especially the microphones, has proven to be very robust. I find the sound quality of the microphones to be excellent. I'm quite pleased with the whole thing.
My big complaint with the mic build quality has a lot to do with the price of the device and what the competition provides at a similar price point. Zoom buc build quality is excellent. I would have liked for Tascam to mirror that. It was surprising to see the images of the XY microphone capsules as silver, tending my thinking toward metal; just to find out that they were plastic. I could go on. However, I have found that they are great just they way they are. They may even be better considering that I've dropped the unit from hip and camera on tripod height a couple of times and nothing has broken or dented.. this is directly related to the plastic build. So, maybe it's better and my complaints were unjustified.
I will say that every quality microphone I have ever bought have been metal. Or it has had a metal housing. Imagine buying a Rode NTG and it being made of plastic. I suppose that was my overall point. The build quality was something I expected to be better because I thought it felt cheaply built. I don't believe that anymore. It's not solid like a metal unit, not even as solid feeling as the H6n to me, but it has proven to be my go to recorder- mics and all. And I like it a lot. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm Thank you so much for your response! Based on your video (& several others) I decided to move forward with purchasing the Tascam X8 yesterday. ::Shrugs:: This will be my first recording device and I am thrilled to hear you still enjoy using Tascam X8. Also glad to hear it has been thoroughly tested it in the field (aka you went ahead and dropped it for me).
The plastic build quality was a reiterated as a concern by many early adapters of the X8 but I am willing to compromise for the improved sound quality and the fool-proof software it may provide. (Also, I found one for below $300, almost the same price as the x6).
I was terrified that I was making the wrong decision, but I really do want something that is "run and gun" ready since I have zero audio engineering experience. I have already clipped a lot of audio files.
It's super rad that you took the time to respond! Thanks again!
Best - K
You're going to love it. It's a great recorder.
2 questions:
1) Can the X8 fit in a pocket?
2)Which computer monitors are you using? I tried finding in your equipment links, but couldn't find. :-)
No it can't fit in a pocket. It can fit in a cargo pocket. I don't know which monitors you are talking about. Computer or field?
@@RobertHamm Pocket information is great!
Computer (Visual) monitors please :-)
Sure, they are amazing monitors:
Dell Ultrasharp 43" 4k: amzn.to/3xTzwqj
Dell Ultrasharp 25" 4k with 90° swivel stand: amzn.to/3xUrsFL
You will like them, especially if you do a lot of content creation.
@@RobertHamm That's AWESOME! Thank you!
@@RobertHamm Thank you SO very much :-D
I saw those Saramonic mic capsules you referred to for the X8. do you think it would work? do agree with you it can be frustrating to get use to. I haven't got used to it yet. I just bought it
Thanks for watching and your question. If have to say that I believe the satanic mics could be useful, but, after over a year of using the X8 in the field, with all the drops and bumps that come along with that activity, the included mics have worked out great. Yes, I would have preferred something with a higher build quality even though something on the level of Zoom mic capsules would be a great improvement. All in all, I like the sound and they have held up. Good job to Tascam. I like the X8 a lot.
thanks for the video! do you have any links for those Saramonic mic replacements you were talking about?
You're welcome. Here is a link amzn.to/3wZxtkF
Great video! Do you or anybody know how many minutes per gigabyyte of video do you get when recording in 32 bit float and 48k?
Can you bounce tracks recorded down to one?
What video editing software you are using, I mean the one you have behind you. Thanks for the video!
Premiere Pro
@@RobertHamm Thanks!
You mention using the launcher and the issues there. Do you know if you can create a Template and then use that as your "go-to" starting point?
Not that I'm aware of, but through firmware updates there seem to be fewer issues with the launcher. I haven't noticed anything lately that makes it difficult to use. Well, I wish they would give us overdubbing and track bouncing in the multitrack recorder mode from mixed down and overdub. That would be nice. That way you could use the two inbuilt microphones to record music sounds or whatever, and then move that recording to the unused tracks. Currently, this is not possible. So if you don't have a microphone plugged into input 5, you won't record anything on input number five.
@@RobertHamm Could it maybe bounce tracks to a single file and then start a new project and import that file to an empty track? A sort of roundabout way?
i just bought one, but after seeing your video i don't know if i did the right choice. I will use it to record voice and guitar live, maybe even outside, and i saw some inccredible sound samples. do you think it's better than the zomme H6 for this use ? the mixing part of the Tascam is nice but not mandatory i would say, i will have to edit video so a little sound editiing first on computer is not an issue
It's a great recorder. After lots of use and using it for almost a year, maybe a year already, I'd say that the sound quality is amazing, I enjoy the mixing capabilities, and the build quality has not been an issue like I thought it would be. There was also a price drop from 499 to 399, and that seems to be the sweet spot. You made a good choice. Cheers.
Say I've recorded 6 Chanels at once. Next day I want to play the 6 channel mix back on device. Is this easy to do? Will it remember the whole mix on playback? Or do I have to manually select all of the files?
Yes, just bring the file up that you want to play and switch over to the mixer screen and make adjustments as you see fit. If you want to save the new mix as a new file, you can do that as well.
Just getting started and trying to make the best of my budget while also future proofing. (I've come to realize that buying cheap/intro tools has always come back to bite me.) I was stuck between the H4n pro and the X8. The lower cost of the H4n was promising since it'd allow me to buy 1-2 additional mics for the same price as the X8. Was there anything in particular that you disliked about the H4's? Something that might come to bite me?
I would stay away from the h4. Any of the model, and just jump up to the h5n at the minimum. Stage 4 Pro got a screen update, and a little bit of a body redesign, but not much else. The buttons are clicky, which means they make noise when you press them, and the handling noise is terrible. Not to mention zoom is known for detachable microphone capsules. So you would be missing the headline feature for having a zoom product. If that were the case I believe Tascam would give you better preamps.
@@RobertHamm thanks, I appreciate it.
Thank you for the review. The zoom h6 built in xy mics have incredible range for a small concert ambience from a distance(6-10feet) based on what I’ve heard on TH-cam, albeit I’m looking for a recorder with built in xy mics that also includes 32bit float. Would you say the x8 xy mic is comparable?
I have the Zoom h6 and the tascam X8. The build quality of the zoom mics are better, and you're right, I have found them to be excellent. I like the XY and AB patterns you can get just by rotating them. It's pretty cool. The X8 has excellent microphones. Maybe even better. I have tested them side by side and found it difficult to tell a difference. Although the X8 microphones don't have the same build quality, they have stood up to in the field use and being dropped. This is something I thought would be a problem when I first received my unit. It turned out to be a non-issue. And changing them from XY to AB pattern is pretty simple. Plus I like the fact that if I want to I can take one of the microphones, or both of the microphones, out of the X8 and then plug in an eighth inch Jack from another microphone. So, that's a neat benefit. I have not used that benefit though. But it is possible. Hope this helps. Cheers.
Thank you for the quick response! I was curious about those mics, since I wanted something comparable to the h6 built in mics but with 32bit. Thanks again.
What about the high-frequency hum in 96kHz/192kHz mode? Tascam does not seem to care about it.
I've never found it to be a problem. I'm not sure I've even got that problem. There was a big fuss about it when it was first released, but I think they fixed it. I've never seen it pop up in Audition when I've been mixing sound. Also, it's outside of human hearing range. So, I never gave it a second thought.
The fact that with the 2020 Zoom H6 Black Edition they stuck with MINI B for data is inexcusable. WHY? MINI B OF ALL THINGS. I had to go hunting for MINI B cables from when I had a PSP. Even then that was only for data transferring and hacking.
COMICA holy cow, what a great find that was for me. Some real weird (cool) products at a not absurd price. I prefer their wireless to the Rode Wireless Go 2. I looked up the XU QUad yeah the X-U fleat cheaper to me but I did like the X-D version. Also the fact that you had to be cognizant of which way the antenna arm swung out was also annoying.
Yeah, USB c is the standard..
I wish you had discussed the accessories.
Google. That will help you.
Can you use it to play lossless audio files? Like HiFi player?
This isn't an iPod. It's a field recorder. It will play back whatever you record with it, including recordings from a computer or other device, with whatever settings you have set. It is a capture device, not a playback device. Although you can play files back and do some working on the devices the files are captured with the intent of finalization in a mastering program. So playing back lossless isnt something that would happen at the capture stage. The device captures audio in upto 32bit float at 182khz sample rate. That's more like raw compared to lossless.
What program are you using for audio? I’m new to all this 😅
I use audition and premiere pro.
We will be recording our bands gigs with the X8, crowed/moshpit view and sometimes from the mixer (strangely, there is no one recording their band or gig with the X8, on YT anyway, which is very strange) Can you record to a Seagate Expansion Portable Drive 2TB or similar also? (edit: 3.5mmm jacks huh? MM Rode mics he he) And what is the best SD card for the X8? Thanks.
You know, I just though that iw would record to an SSD over usbc, but it wont. I tried it and checked the specs online. I use a 512 SDXC card and call it a day.
When recoering in 32bit float, you don't really have to worry about setting your levels... but that's not exactly correct either. 32bit float isn't a walkaway and your good to fix in post kind of thing, although that's exactly how easy it is.
For the Pit and what you are talking about recording, 32bit float will be helpful without a doubt because it will allow you to record souonds over 0Db. that means you will be able to record overmodulated sound. You will also be able to recover very low volume sounds. BUT..
You have to consider the environment. You're going to pick up everything. So, although you could set it to 32 bit float and probably be ok to fix it in post, if you take the time to set your levels right in the dirst place, then you wont have to worry so much about 32bit float saving you.
Basically, if you choose to "do it in post" you are moving your entire workflo to post production AND, if you don't set your levels up properly in the first place, nicing the band, drums, but, area, ect... then you are just creating more work for yourself in the long run.
Also, other than professional software and hardware, you won't have any way to listen back to your recording in 32bit float. Your cellphone wont play the file, neither will your computer (most of the time.. like regular media player or movies and TV app on windows} does not currently support native 32bit floar playback.. so the only device you will be able to play back on is premiere, audition, the portacapture, ect..
So, you'll have to set your levels properly to hear it in the first place, and if you take the time to do that you can just as easily make a sual recording in 24bit. The 24bit recording will play anywhere. As long as the 24bit recording is good, then no need to mess with the 32bit file.
So, that's my suggestion. Unless you need the 192 sample rate, the record in 32bit gfloat with a 24bit dual recording. You will have to use 48 or 96Khz sample rate, maybe only 48, i cant remember rignt this moment, but you will get the 32bit file if you need it, and have a 24 bit file if you dont. Easy.
@@RobertHamm Outstanding, thank you very much Sir :) Do you know if it can be rendered in Shotcut? I'll be testing before hand any way, well before the gig :) Thanks again.
I have not used Shotcut, but did look it up real quick. Looks interesting. As for 32bit float, I could not find anything definitive. SOme people say that they can and others that the can't (when looking on the forums). Google it yourslef and let me know. I think that the dual record feature of the X8 would help you here. I know that Shotcut can handle 24 bit. The tascam would give you both 24 bit and 32 bit. So, you would bee good to go and use Shotcut as long as you use the dual record function. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm The xy mics are junk, throw them away as soon as you get this! Save your self some grief!! The Boya BY-a100 is a great replacement. Or use an xlr to 3.5mm jack cable and use a $1000 mic or what ever mic you like through the 1-2. I record my sons band Ahiru, it's on YT, he's the bass player. I mix it in with the iPhone 15 phone sound, which is awesome btw. I use 2 Behringer xm5800, I have just brought a Rode videomic go ii and a blimp for windy days. Boya BY-MM1 is actually great for recording in a loud environment like a gig. EQ everything you don't need out and in. I also record our friends band Poly& Co, also Hillbilly Skank with the Portacapture X8, both on YT. Oh, and yes the 32bit float works in Shotcut just fine.
Thank you for the in depth information and insights. I am carefully studying this type of device to just record separately and combine with the G9 outdoor videos later. I am a beginner and don't have a computer that can be used for this work right now. I know that this is very am amateur but do you think that it's possible to output the captured audio into the camera mic in and synch it? Thanks
It is and that's not an amateur way to do it at all. That's one of the best ways to do it. You can also sync the camera audio and Tascam audio in post on your phone or iPad if you use LumaFusion or iMovie.
The best way to so it would be to send the audio out from the Tascam to the mic on on your camera. Then it's already synced. Cheers.
@@RobertHamm Thank you. Perhaps more specifically, I meant can I record the audio on the tascam ( not wired to the camera at all ) the video on the camera, and do the post video sync just with those two devices? No tablet or computer. Thanks
No. That does not work. You won't be able to do that. That would be like saying you have a coffee cup on your table and coffe in a coffee pot and you would want the coffee pot to pour into the cup without you touching it. It's not possible.
Also, asking the question reveals that you may be very new to video produciton. That's not a problem, but it tells me that this is a developing skill for you. You need to connect a couple more dots for it all to make sense. I can help you with that. Email me.
Is it good for ambience nature recording ? low noise had tested ?
It's great for that. It's a great field recorder with a good set of microphones (mic build quality could be a little higher).
I came close to snapping my mics I thought they pivoted. I need to find a solution to carrying it so the mics are not damaged.
I almost did the same thing. That's one of the reasons I think they should have been made to a higher durability standard. However, in my use, they haven't broken yet. I've taken them all over the place and recorded quite a few events with them, done some sound recordings, I use them all the time in the studio for ambient mics of my recordings. I really like how they sound. I just wish they were built better. Heck, I would even be happy if you could buy replacements as a part. However, Tascam does not allow that at this point.
but! ? Can I have the individual files (each separate microphone) and edit and mix them on the computer? or the file is mixed all in the recorder
Yes. It saves each input as a separate file and a stereo mic of all the files. So you get it all.
if you had to choose, would you go with the h6 or x8?
Please keep in mind how I use my recorders: for weddings, interviews, and field recording. This means I need the 32 but float because it simplifies my workload. Whenever I live stream, that requirement is not important because I have to set my levels properly so the viewers can hear. So the 32 bit recordongs aren't as important in that application. Even considering that, the easy answer is the X8.
The features alone make it the better choice and that's even before you consider the 32bit hloat recording. I feel like the unit is much more responsive to interaction, such as navigation, reviewing, splitting/"editing" clips, and changing settings.
If you were to ask me about price, I would say that the H5n is hard to beat. The H6 issue is with the interface. It's slow and the screen isn't bright for outdoor sunlight use. But it has physical dials and pads that make the screen visibility a non issue for me.
If you were to ask me about recording and if 32 bit was soo much better I would say that it definitely is, but if you know about audio, or want to take a little time experimenting and learning, there is little that a 32 bit recorder will give you over a 24 bit recorder. In fact, the peace of mind you get from not clipping can easily be made up on a 24 bit recorder by enabling a safety track recording at a lower level.
The 32 bit workflow takes more time to process and to get the benefit I have to go into Audition to take advantage of the extra dynamic range of the recording. Premiere pro only works with the 24bit processing of the 32bit file for now. Adobe will likely update that at some point if they haven't already.
So, in short, the answer for me is the X8 because I can just press record and walk away. I don't have to monitor it. I know whatever audio it captures can be used because of the dynamic range of 32 bit float recording. Since I have been using mine, I have used it in 32 bit mode even when live streaming, but I've still gone through the practice of setting my levels properly. I have not lost any audio because of bad recordings because I set my audio properly. I have not had to take advantage of the 32 bit float benefits, however, the peace of mind I have knowing I have room if I mess up is priceless.
I would say get whatever recorder you like. Don't worry about 32 bit unless you know you need it or just want it. You will love the X8. It's well made, feels balanced, and the mics sound great, even if I thought their build quality was questionable when I got mine. It's been wonderful and I haven't looked back since. I used all of my recorders, but the X8 the most. It does eat batteries, though. So keep that in mind.
Please subscribe and let me know what you decide.
@@RobertHamm thank you for this response i am actually waiting for the h6 in the mail right now. However, i do everything you just mentioned , and , i can easily send it back and buy the x8. The 32bit float is something i was eyeing for sure, because during weddings people can be screaming at the mic during speeches and i need that ability to have the peace of mind that its not going to clip.
great video thanks! I've just bought the X8 and have a shoot coming up where they plan to use Tentacle Sync and send me audio timecode to sync up later in post. How do I mute the timecode monitor channel so I don't have it coming through the headphones?
I have not encountered that issue at all. So if you find a solution, close to here I'd like to hear it.
@@RobertHamm the solution was to return the Tascam X8 and buy a Zoom H6 instead which supports monitor mix channel muting
Thanks for the update.
Can you record phone calls on here and is all tracks able to do 32 bit float on manual mode and can you punch in punch out on manual mode?????
Yes. Just plug it in or use the mic and put the phone on speaker.
@@RobertHamm asking because the new update just gave it mix minus
Bought it for use with guitar what's the best way to record different tracks (layers) of guitar rhythm, leads, bass ect onto it, there's not much info out there on it and first time I have bought one of these
It has a 4 track mixer with doensampling built in to the app, but it's pretty limited. You wouldn't be attempting to record separate instrument tracks and then mix them together into a single sun output. The recorder isn't designed for that. You can, however, mix 6 different instruments at the same time using all of the inputs. You will have access to EQ, compression, levels/gain, stereo separation l/r, and others. So, if you were to record them all in one take you would have a lot more options with on device post production, but it's still going to be very limited.
A better way to use the recorder is to record and bring the recordings into a DAW and set up your mix from there. Good luck.
@@RobertHamm thank you very much, I'll get cracking on it
Glad to help. Let me know how it goes.
Why didn't you just go with a zoom f8 Pro ?
Form factor and price. I was specifically looking for a field recorder, not a sound bag recorder. Not as important, but still part of the decision was price. $500 bucks was ok for me at the time. It has currently dropped in price to around $400 on sale. The F8 pro is considerably more expensive and a lot bigger. However, had Zoom come out with an updated H6 with touch screen around the same price and 32bit float, I would have probably bought that. I have a collection of zoom microphone modules that I would be able to use.
Have you got any responseM
No. Never heard anything back.
also comes without any strap or protective case. Not much to ask considering the price!!!
Yeah, completely agree. An update in case you were wondering. The mic capsules, although they feel cheaply made, perform very well. I really like them. I do, however, Generally use other microphones more often because of my workflow, but the included ones have turned out to be really good regardless of the build quality. Cheers.
Can I overdub with it?
You can mix down and punch in. No overdubbing feature.
Does it do overdubs??
Yes, but not like you think. It saves a new track and allows you to lunch in. I wish it could work better as a production device with overdubs, it's got everything else. But, no. It doesn't work well for that task.
Very frustrating unit to say the least. Decided to return it.
Can you plug it into an iPhone
Yes. Just use the right cable.
i buy is ok for me.. i record field sound
You will love it.
Tascam DOES NOT SELL REPLACEMENT MIC CAPSULES for the Portacapture X8. How do I know? One of mine broke (I don't even know how it broke). I called Tascam's parts department. I was told, THEY DO NOT SELL REPLACEMENT CAPSULES, but do sell the individual parts that is used in the manufacturing to make a new capsule. They sent me a parts list for the capsule. There are more than 13 parts used to build the capsule. WTF? I don't want to solder parts together with wires and jigsaw the capsule's plastic parts together with tiny little screws. Just sell me a finished part to plug in the recorder. To EVERYONE ELSE, STAY AWAY FROM THIS RECORDER. I can see if Tascam was trying to make money off of parts they know their customer's will break, but it's worse, they are selling a product and have no way to provide parts that WILL break. It just feels like cash and grab. for $500, I am extremely disappointed. The Mic Capsules are the cheapest I have ever seen and will likley break because of how far they stick out.
-SIDE NOTE- I was about to return my unit (with in the 30 day window since purchased), but Tascam had a new firmware update 1.20 , so I figured I'd try the new update in the field to see if it fixed some weird recording issues, and that's where my Mic broke. Never got a chance to try the recorder and now I cant return it. STAY AWAY people. I should of just bought the Zoom F3 for the 32bit float.
That sucks. Thanks for the info.
I just got it on Adorama for $100 new :-/
They've already updated the pricing! I missed it.
@@RobertHamm I managed to snag it for $100! I hope they don't cancel my order lol.
I think what happened was - all the major outlets have $100 off 9.1.-9.30. and they accidentally made the price $100 instead $100 off! It was only like that since 9pm last night (morning on East Coast) until 9am this morning. Crazy :)
Did they honor your order? Any word from Adorama since the price change?
@@RobertHamm Very early this morning, around 6 or 7, it was showing as "on back order". I'm guessing a lot of people ordered and it went out of stock. Around 9 they put the price back up to $399.
I just checked and it's still saying "we're preparing your order for shipment" and I've been charged $109. I'll let you know what happens, but it looks like I lucked out. Someone is getting fired though :(
@@RobertHamm It shows as shipped! :)
Thanks!
No problem.