Description

For speech, sound effects, and live music recording applications, the TASCAM DR-05X portable handheld recorder is capable of capturing two tracks of high-resolution audio without requiring external microphones. Its onboard omnidirectional condenser microphones are fixed in an A-B configuration, providing a spacious stereo image of the source audio. Equally effective as a handheld device, mounted on a stand, or mounted on a camera, the DR-05X can handle everything from sampling sessions and recitals to interviews and podcasts.

Flexible power options such as batteries, USB bus power, or an AC adapter make the DR-05X well suited for on-the-go recording, all-day video shoots, and computer-based audio production.

Need to connect a lavalier microphone or an external mixer? The 3.5mm mini-jack input on the DR-05X supports both mic-level and line-level signals and can provide plug-in power when needed. Whether you use the built-in microphones or an external source, selectable modes such as peak reduction, limiting, and auto level provide options for achieving clean and undistorted recordings.

Onboard Omnidirectional Microphones

The DR-05X’s onboard condenser microphones provide stereo capture for sources producing sound pressure levels up to 125 dB, meaning even loud concerts can be recorded without difficulty.

The omnidirectional microphones respond to sound from all directions and are permanently spaced in an A/B configuration, resulting in a wide, sphere-like pickup pattern.

3.5mm Microphone / Line Input with Plug-In Power

For maximum intelligibility and optimal vocal tone, recordists often prefer lavalier microphones that can be attached to a subject’s clothing.

The 3.5mm mini-jack input on the DR-05X is designed precisely for this situation. Simply clip a lavalier microphone (available separately) to the talent and plug it into the recorder.

Because many lavalier microphones require a small voltage known as plug-in power, TASCAM provides a selectable setting to supply plug-in power through the 3.5mm input.

If you need to record the output of a wireless microphone receiver or an audio mixer, the input also accepts line-level signals.

Any source connected to the 3.5mm mini-jack automatically overrides the onboard microphones, so there is no need to navigate menus to select the correct input.

Supports microSDXC Cards up to 128GB

To maximize portability and maintain a compact design, the DR-05X records directly to microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards up to 128GB.

With a 128GB card, the DR-05X can record up to 192 hours of stereo audio at 16-bit / 44.1 kHz using the uncompressed, BWF-compliant WAV format.

3.5mm Line / Headphone Output

When you want to record simultaneously to your camera and the DR-05X, simply connect the 3.5mm mini-jack output to your camera’s input and adjust the output level using the +/- buttons on the screen.

Alternatively, connect a pair of headphones for critical monitoring. Quick monitoring checks can also be performed using the built-in mono speaker.

USB Microphone and Audio Interface Functionality

Connect the DR-05X to your Mac/Windows computer or iOS device via USB for real-time bidirectional audio routing.

Once recognized and configured, the DR-05X can function as:

• a USB microphone

• a 2-in / 2-out audio interface

For convenient file transfers, the DR-05X can also operate as a card reader when connected via USB.

Powered via AA Batteries, USB, or AC Adapter

Using the two included AA alkaline batteries, the DR-05X can operate for up to 17.5 hours of stereo recording at 16-bit / 44.1 kHz resolution.

For extended recording sessions, the DR-05X can also be powered via:

• USB connection to a computer or mobile battery

• TASCAM PS-P520E AC adapter (sold separately)

Ideal for Handheld or Tripod-Mounted Use

Designed for maximum portability, the DR-05X is compact and lightweight.

Its streamlined body allows comfortable use in the hand or even in a pocket. To prevent accidental button presses, engage the side-panel hold switch.

A standard 1/4″-20 threaded socket on the bottom allows mounting on microphone stands or tripods for stable positioning.

Built-In Level Modes and Signal Processing

Enhance the sonic quality of your recordings using the DR-05X’s built-in level modes and signal processing.

Automatic level control increases or decreases recording volume when the input signal is too quiet or too loud. The limiter compresses the signal before it reaches distortion.

During rehearsal or recording, the peak reduction function automatically reduces input gain to a suitable level.

To reduce wind noise and low-frequency rumble, the low-cut filter can be set to 40, 80, or 120 Hz.

You can also apply hall, room, studio, or plate reverb presets to the input or output signal.

During playback, treble, mid, and bass frequencies can be adjusted for custom output tone.

Selectable Recording Functions

The DR-05X includes several recording functions that simplify workflow and help ensure you never miss the beginning of a performance.

The prerecord function keeps the recorder in standby mode and allows it to capture up to two seconds of audio before the record button is pressed.

The auto-record function can start recording automatically when audio reaches a selected threshold of -6, -12, -24, or -48 dB.

If you are recording yourself playing an instrument, the self-timer can start recording after 5 or 10 seconds.

Nondestructive Overdubbing

The DR-05X’s overdub function allows you to layer a new performance over an existing recording.

You can play an instrument or sing while listening to a previously recorded track, creating a new file that combines both signals while leaving the original recording intact.

Tone Generator for Synchronizing Files

An internal tone generator makes it easy to synchronize files recorded on the DR-05X with your camera.

When connected to a camera, an adjustable auto-tone is sent and recorded on both devices. These tones can be used as reference points when synchronizing files in video editing software.

Additional Features

128 × 64 pixel backlit graphic LCD display
Quick-menu button for easy access to functions
10 menu languages
Overwrite function for punch-in recording with one level of undo
Dictation mode designed for voice recording and transcription
Adjustable playback speed from 0.5 to 2.0 times (in 0.1 increments)
Automatically creates a new file when the maximum file size is reached
File divide and delete functions
Loop / repeat playback
Resume function retains the last stop position even after power cycling
Jump-back-and-play feature (1–10 seconds or 10 / 20 / 30 seconds)
Up to 99 marks per track
Track increment function to create new files during recording
File name format can use a user-defined word or the date
The first six characters of the file name can be customized
Playlist function
Chromatic tuner