Description

With its large touchscreen, 32-bit float resolution to avoid clipping and tailored modes for music, field, podcast, and voice recording applications, the TASCAM Portacapture X8 portable handheld multitrack recorder makes it incredibly easy to capture up to six individual tracks (plus a stereo mix) of detailed, high-resolution audio for common production scenarios. Its detachable condenser mics can be set for a wide or tight stereo image and may be used simultaneously with the mic/line combo inputs. Equally adept as a handheld device or when used in stand- or camera-mounted setups, the Portacapture X8 can handle anything from sampling sessions and interviews to podcasts, live concerts, and multi-mic setups.

Flexible powering methods—batteries, USB bus power, or an AC adapter—make the Portacapture X8 well suited to on-the-go recording, all-day video shoots, and computer-based audio production. Need to patch in external mics or an outboard mixer? The Portacapture X8’s four balanced combo XLR-1/4″ inputs accommodate mic- or line-level signals and can supply phantom power if needed. Whether you use the built-in mics or an external source, selectable modes such as dual recording, low-cut filtering, limiting, gating, and auto level give you options for achieving a clean, undistorted recording. Separate line and headphone outputs are provided for real-time monitoring while recording to a camera.

Touchscreen User Interface

Rather than requiring manual configuration to accommodate different scenarios, the Portacapture X8 offers presets that optimize the recorder for common applications such as basic multitrack recording, podcasts, music, voice (interviews, vlog, etc.), field recordings, ASMR, and more.

The Launcher system makes these readily accessible via the large 3.5″ color touchscreen.

Detachable Condenser Microphones

The Portacapture X8’s detachable 14.6mm large-diaphragm condenser microphones enable crisp stereo capture even without external mics. Both mics can be attached or detached to form A-B or X-Y mic configurations.

Use the A-B position (capsules facing outward) to produce a wide stereo image, or switch to X-Y (capsules facing inward) for a tighter stereo field with stronger center presence and fewer phase differences.

When the mics are not connected, input jacks 1 and 2 can be used to connect lavalier microphones with 3.5mm TRS plugs, including models that require plug-in power.

Four Combo XLR-1/4″ Mic/Line Inputs with Phantom Power

Four Neutrik XLR-1/4″ TRS combo jacks support mic- and line-level signals, allowing connection of external microphones or balanced outputs from a mixer or FOH console.

With selectable 24V or 48V phantom power, the HDDA mic preamps support a wide range of microphones such as dynamic and condenser types.

Using the onboard microphones, you can capture the ambient sound of the audience while recording directly from an external console—ideal for live performances.

Additional inputs include:

3.5mm mic input with plug-in power for lavalier or compact shotgun microphones
3.5mm camera input for monitoring return audio from a DSLR

High-Resolution Capture

The Portacapture X8 records BWF-compliant WAV files at up to 192 kHz / 32-bit float resolution and supports multitrack recording of up to eight tracks (six inputs plus stereo mix).

Dual recording mode allows each track to be recorded in a different file format simultaneously.

With dual premium A/D converters and 32-bit float recording, the X8 provides:

Wide dynamic range
Clip-free recording
Ability to adjust levels later without degrading signal-to-noise ratio

Supports microSD Cards up to 512GB

The Portacapture X8 records directly to microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards up to 512GB, allowing long recording times even at high resolutions.

3.5mm Line and Headphone Outputs

Connect the 3.5mm camera/line output to your camera to record directly while capturing audio internally.

A separate 3.5mm headphone output allows monitoring without interrupting the camera feed.

Quick checks can also be performed using the built-in mono speaker.

USB Microphone and Audio Interface Functionality

With its USB-C port, the Portacapture X8 can connect to a computer for bidirectional audio streaming.

It can function as:

USB microphone
8-input / 2-output audio interface
USB card reader for file transfers

Powered via AA Batteries, USB, or AC Adapter

The recorder can operate using:

Four AA batteries
USB power from a computer or mobile battery
Optional TASCAM PS-P520U AC adapter

Ideal for Handheld or Camera / Tripod Use

Compact and lightweight design makes the X8 easy to use handheld.

Mounting options include:

1/4″-20 threaded mount for tripods or mic stands
Integrated cold shoe mount for direct camera attachment

Built-In Level Modes and Signal Processing

Enhance recordings using built-in processing tools:

Automatic level control
Compressor and limiter
Low-cut filter
Noise gate
Reverb for ambience

Tone Generator for Synchronizing Files

An internal tone generator allows synchronization between the Portacapture X8 and a camera.

Using the slate tone, the recorder sends an audible sync tone to both devices, simplifying alignment in video editing software.

Supports Wireless Remote Control

Remote control via smartphone or tablet is available using the optional AK-BT1 Bluetooth adapter, which also enables timecode synchronization.