Tascam CA-XLR2d-F XLR Microphone Adapter for Mirrorless Cameras Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Tascam CA-XLR2d-F is an XLR microphone adapter kit designed to enhance the audio capabilities of compatible mirrorless cameras, specifically FUJIFILM models. It provides professional-grade audio input by allowing the connection of external XLR microphones, directly transmitting digital audio to the camera via its accessory shoe. This adapter features high-performance preamplifiers and an A/D converter for pristine sound quality, low noise, and a wide dynamic range.

Key Features:

• XLR Input Expansion: Equipped with two XLR/TRS input terminals for versatile microphone options.
• High-Performance A/D Converter: Directly transmits digital audio to the camera via the accessory shoe, ensuring high-quality sound without deterioration.
• Camera Power Supply: Can be powered directly from compatible camera bodies (Canon, FUJIFILM) via the accessory shoe.
• HDDA Mic Preamplifier: Features a high-performance HDDA mic preamplifier for superior sound quality, low noise, and wide dynamic range, supporting microphone/line level switching and +48V phantom power.
• Flexible Microphone Support: Accommodates various microphone types including handheld, shotgun, wireless receivers, and lavalier microphones.
• User-Friendly Controls: Built-in processing with convenient switches for auto-level, low-cut filter, and limiter.
• Direct Monitoring: Analog output terminal with headphone mode options for latency-free direct monitoring.

2. Setup

2.1 Package Contents

Before beginning, ensure all components are present:

• CA-XLR2d-F XLR Microphone Adapter Unit
• Microphone Holder Attachment (pre-installed or separate)
• 3.5mm Stereo Mini Jack Cable (for cameras without digital hot shoe integration)
• Standard Hot Shoe Adapter (for cameras without native hot shoe integration)
• Battery Box Module (for AA battery power when camera power is unavailable)

2.2 Attaching to Camera

The CA-XLR2d-F is designed to mount directly onto the camera's hot shoe. For compatible FUJIFILM cameras, the adapter integrates directly with the camera's digital hot shoe, allowing for power and audio signal transfer without additional cables.

1. Align the adapter's hot shoe mount with the camera's hot shoe.
2. Slide the adapter fully into the hot shoe.
3. Secure the adapter by tightening the locking mechanism, if present, on the camera or adapter.

For cameras without native hot shoe integration, use the provided standard hot shoe adapter and the 3.5mm stereo mini jack cable to connect the adapter's output to the camera's microphone input.

2.3 Powering the Unit

• Via Camera Hot Shoe: For compatible cameras (e.g., FUJIFILM), power is supplied directly from the camera body through the hot shoe connection.
• Via AA Batteries: If your camera does not supply power through the hot shoe, attach the battery box module to the adapter. Insert two AA batteries into the module to power the unit.

3. Operation

3.1 Connecting Microphones

The adapter features multiple input options:

• INPUT 1 & INPUT 2: Two XLR/TRS combo jacks for connecting professional microphones.
• INPUT 3: A 3.5mm stereo mini jack for connecting smaller microphones or line-level devices.

Connect your desired microphone(s) to the appropriate input jacks. Ensure secure connections to prevent audio dropouts.

3.2 Input Controls

Each input channel (INPUT 1/INPUT 3 and INPUT 2) has dedicated controls:

• SELECT Switch: Choose between INPUT 1, INPUT 1+2, or INPUT 3.
• ATT (Attenuator) Switch: Adjust input sensitivity (0dB, -20dB, -46dB) to prevent clipping.
• LOW CUT Switch: Engage the low-cut filter (80Hz, 220Hz, OFF) to reduce unwanted low-frequency noise.
• MIC/LINE/+48V Switch: Select input type (MIC, LINE) and enable +48V phantom power for condenser microphones.
• LEVEL Knob: Manually adjust the input gain for each channel.
• AUTO/MAN/OFF Switch (Limiter): Select automatic level control, manual level control, or turn off the limiter. The limiter prevents audio distortion from excessively loud inputs.
• 1+2 LINK Switch: Link INPUT 1 and INPUT 2 for synchronized stereo recording.

3.3 Monitoring Audio

The adapter includes a headphone output for direct, latency-free audio monitoring.

• Connect headphones to the OUTPUT jack on the side of the unit.
• Use the VOLUME buttons (+ and -) to adjust the monitoring volume.
• The CENTER button can be used to center the audio for monitoring.

4. Specifications

5. Warranty & Support

5.1 Warranty Information

The Tascam CA-XLR2d-F comes with a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

For extended protection, optional 4-Year Protection Plans and Complete Protect monthly plans may be available from your retailer.

5.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or service inquiries, please visit the official Tascam website or contact their customer support directly. Refer to the contact information provided in the product packaging or on the official Tascam support page.