TASCAM : DR-701D

6-track Recorder for Video Production

The Ultimate Portable Audio System for Video Production

 

6-track recording (4 tracks + L-R stereo mix)

Using the built-in mixer, 4 tracks and their stereo mix (6 tracks total) can be simultaneously recorded. In addition to pan and level adjustments, the mixer includes a delay function to compensate for distances between mics. A mid-side decoding function is also built-in for use with MS stereo mics.

 

TASCAM becomes a Sennheiser Technology Alliance Member with the latest firmware update for DR-701D

Viewed as the ultimate portable audio system for video production the TASCAM DR-701D now supports Virtual Reality (VR) content creators with the Version 2.00 firmware update. This new update supports Ambisonics recording by enabling encoding both A and B formats and providing a real-time stereo monitor mix of B format content.
Along with robust and compact body, DR-701D is the ideal recording solution for VR production.

 

Perfect camera sync using HDMI video clock synchronization

An HDMI input and output allows the DR-701D's internal clock and the camera to be digitally synchronized. Even when shooting long events, the video files recorded by the camera and audio files recorded by the DR-701D will not drift out of sync.

 

One button press on the camera starts sound recording on the DR-701D

Simply pressing the camera recording start button sends a trigger to the DR-701D to start audio recording. Unlike other systems that force you to press record on both devices, the HDMI start system prevents missed takes, syncs the two recording starts together, and makes single-operator shoots much easier.

 

Cascade feature for additional track recording

By connecting multiple units using HDMI, slave DR-701D units can be made to follow a master unit to start and stop recording simultaneously. Since audio can also be output through the HDMI connection, monitoring selections can be made using slave units without reconnecting headphones.

 

SMPTE timecode stores time data in recorded audio files

The built-in SMPTE generator allows the camera and DR-701D to store the same location reference. Several options are available to integrate SMPTE LTC into your camera system. The BNC timecode input can follow a source signal, or can be "jamsynced" a few times per day for independant freewheel operation. Cameras that send timecode through their HDMI output can be followed by the DR-701D's timecode input. And the internal generator can be started without an external reference for a simple time-of-day stamp on recorded BWAV files.

 

The magnesium-alloy chassis is lightweight yet rugged enough for daily on-set use

The DR-701D's chassis is forged using a magnesium alloy, chosen for its lightweight but solid structure. Desipte its compact size, a high number of inputs and outputs are included. Screw threads for mounting a tripod are included on the bottom of the unit, while a removable camera attachment screw and hot shoe are included on the top of the unit. The DR-701D includes a number of mounting options – either below the camera for best cable management, above the camera, or mounted to a follow-focus cage.

 

High-quality HDDA (High Definition Discrete Architecture) mic preamps

 

 

The microphone preamps have a significant impact on the quality of the recorded audio. The DR-701D features TASCAM HDDA mic preamps. The differential mic preamp circuits use discrete architecture, built with carefully selected components. For example, Texas Instruments OPA1652 op amps were selected for their high quality and low noise – with even better audio performance than the previous DR-70D model. As a result, the unit boasts an equivalent input noise of -124 dBu or better.

 

The A/D converters, which convert analog signals to digital, are made by Asahi Kasei Corporation and are equivalent to those used in the top models in the TASCAM DR series of linear PCM recorders. High audio quality HDDA circuits faithfully convert the amplified audio to digital. Resolutions up to 96kHz/24-bit are supported when recording 6 tracks and 192kHz/24-bit when recording 2 tracks.

 

Multiple mic inputs support various recording options

The four XLR/TRS inputs can be adjusted and recorded independently, allowing various on-set recording options. Talent can be recorded using shotgun mics, lavaliers, or both simultaneously. Ambience can be recorded using a stereo mic (or the built-in microphones.) The 3.5mm stereo input can be selected for channels (1-2) and the built-in omni mics for channels (3-4) for an even wider range of mic setups.

 

Multiband limiter and 5-stage low-cut filter built-in

The limiter function automatically adjusts excessive input levels, and can operate independently on each of the four inputs. A more natural sound quality is achieved because a multiband limiter is employed, affecting only the frequency ranges that have excessive input. In addition, a low-cut filter can be adjusted to five different frequencies to cut wind noise, rumble and other undesirable low frequencies without damaging the source audio.

 

Record the built-in stereo mic together with external mics

Two omni condenser mics are built into the DR-701D for natural stereo sound images. Used in combination with small handheld or shotgun mics, speakers can be interviewed while capturing the surrounding environment in a compact setup.

 

A temperature-compensated crystal oscillator (TCXO) provides a solid internal clock

A high precision TCXO is employed for the internal clock generator. Like other TASCAM professional studio equipment, the TCXO reduces clock errors (jitter) to improve the quality of the digital recording. Additionally, a PLL (phase-locked loop) circuit with a discrete filter further reduces jitter for the best possible audio quality.

 

Designed for use with video and DSLR cameras

A dedicated connector is included to output mixed audio to a DSLR or video camera. This way, the same audio can be recorded by both the DR-701D and the camera. The output level is adjustable to avoid overloading the mic-level input on many cameras.

In cases where the video or DSLR camera does not include SMPTE sync, the audio on the camera can be synchronized with the DR-701D's audio files in a video editing program. Many editors such as Final Cut Pro X and Adobe Premiere support automatic sync between video and audio recordings using the "multi-camera" or "multi-clip" feature.

 

Slate tone generator for adjusting perfect sync

A slate tone generator is built-in to guide alignment in post production. By zooming into the waveform of both the camera and DR-701D audio, the sine wave can be perfectly aligned for exact synchronization.

 

Stereo mini jack mic input (EXT IN 1/2) enables connection of mics for video cameras

A 3.5mm stereo input connector accepts many video camera mics. One can connect a video camera mic to the 1-2 input jack for recording ambience, then patch XLR shotgun mics into inputs 3-4. Plug-in power can be supplied to the 3.5mm input for mics that require power.

 

Recording media	SD card(64MB to 2GB), SDHC card(4GB to 32GB), SDXC card(48GB to 128GB)
Recording format
WAV	44.1k/48k/96k/192k Hz, 16/24-bit
BWF	44.1k/48k/96k/192k Hz, 16/24-bit
Number of input channels
44.1k/48k/96k Hz	4 maximum
192kHz	2 maximum
Number of recording tracks
44.1k/48k/96k Hz	6 maximum
192kHz	2 maximum
Analog audio inputs	*The maximum input level the level that the input knob can be adjusted and a digital full-scale(0dBFS) signal can be input without distorting. *The minimum input level is the level that the input knob can be adjusted and a -20dBFS signal can be input.
IN 1, IN 2, IN 3, IN 4	XLR can provide phantom power
Connectors	XLR-3-31 (1:GND, 2:HOT, 3:COLD) 6.3mm(1/4")standard TRS jacks(tip:HOT, Ring:COLD, Sleeve:GND)
Input gain	”LOW”/”MID”/”HI”/”HI+”
Input impedance	2k ohms
Phantom power	48V +/-4V(10mA/CH), 24V +/-4V(10mA/CH)
Maximum input level	+4dBu
Minimum input level	-72dBu
MIC input gain	TRIM MAX
LOW	+20dB
MID	+40dB
HI	+52dB
HI+	+64dB
Input gain	"LINE"時
Input impedance	10k ohms or later
Nominal input level	+4dBu
Maximum input level	+24dBu
EXT IN 1/2
Connector	3.5mm(1/8")stereo mini jack (can provide plug-in power)
Input impedance	10k ohms
Maximum input level	+10dBV
Minimum input level	-50dBV
MIC input gain	TRIM MAX
LOW	+3dB
MID	+11dB
HI	+26dB
HI+	+38dB
IN
Connector	3.5mm(1/8")stereo mini jack
Input impedance	10k ohms
Nominal input level	-10dBV
Maximum input level	+6dBV
Analog audio outputs
LINE OUT
Connector	3.5mm(1/8")stereo mini jack
Output impedance	200 ohms
Nominal output level	-14dBV
Maximum output level	+6dBV
OUT
Connector	3.5mm(1/8")stereo mini jack
Output impedance	200 ohms
Nominal output level	-44dBV
Maximum output level	+6dBV
PHONES
Connector	3.5mm(1/8")stereo mini jack
Maximum output	50mW + 50mW
Control inputs/outputs
HDMI IN/OUT
Connectors	Type A receptacle
USB
Connector	Micro-B
Format	USB2.0 HIGH SPEED mass storage class
TIMECODE IN
Connector	BNCConnector
Signal voltage amplitude	0.5Vp-p to 5Vp-p
Input impedance	10k ohms
Format	SMPTE 12M-1999 compliant
REMOTE
Connector	2.5mm TRS jack
Power	4 AA batteries(Alkaline, NI-MH or lithium),  AC adapter(TASCAM PS-P515U, sold separately),  External battery pack(TASCAM BP-6AA, sold separately)
Power consumption	6.5W(maximum)
Current consumption (USB bus power)	1.3A(maximum)
Battery operation time (continuous operation)	2ch WAV, 48kHz, 16bit rec *When using phantom power, the operation time might be reduced depending on the mic being used.
DR-701D
Lithium (Energizer ULTIMATE LITHIUM)	About 7:30 : Built-in mic used for 3/4ch, Phantom power unused,HDMI not connected About 6:30 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI not connected About 3:30 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI input connected(1080/60i)
NI-MH batteries (eneloop)	About 4:00 : Built-in mic used for 3/4ch, Phantom power unused,HDMI not connected About 2:30 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI not connected About 2:00 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI input connected(1080/60i)
Alkaline batteries (EVOLTA)	About 3:45 : Built-in mic used for 3/4ch, Phantom power unused,HDMI not connected About 2:00 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI not connected About 1:30 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI input connected(1080/60i)
DR-701D + BP-6AA	*BP-6AA is using the alkaline batteries (EVOLTA).
Lithium batteries (Energizer ULTIMATE LITHIUM)	About 12:30 : Built-in mic used for 3/4ch, Phantom power unused,HDMI not connected About 7:30 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI not connected About 5:30 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI input connected(1080/60i)
NI-MH batteries (eneloop)	About 9:30 : Built-in mic used for 3/4ch, Phantom power unused,HDMI not connected About 7:00 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI not connected About 4:00 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI input connected(1080/60i)
Alkaline batteries (EVOLTA)	About 9:00 : Built-in mic used for 3/4ch, Phantom power unused,HDMI not connected About 6:30 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI not connected About 3:45 : 1/2ch used, 3mA phantom power used for 2ch, HDMI input connected(1080/60i)
Dimensions	169(W)×57.3(H)×113.5(D)mm (with the top adapter attached)
Weight	654g (including batteries) / 567g (without batteries)
Operating temperature	0˚C to 40˚C
Standard accessories	USB cable, Camera attachment bracket screw hole covers × 6 Owner's Manual (including warranty)

 

Audio performance

Frequency response	20-20kHz +0.5/-1dB(LINE IN to LINE OUT, Fs48kHz, JEITA) 20-40kHz +0.5/-1dB(LINE IN to LINE OUT, Fs96kHz, JEITA) 20-80kHz +0.5/-5dB(LINE IN to LINE OUT, Fs192kHz, JEITA)
Distortion	0.007% or less(MIC IN to LINE OUT Fs44.1k/48k/96k/192k Hz, JEITA)
S/N ratio	100dB or more (MIC IN to LINE OUT, -10dBu input, 1kHz, Fs44.1k/48k/96k/192k Hz, JEITA)
Equivalent input noise	-124dBu or less