1. Introduction
The TASCAM DR-70D is a 4-channel portable audio recorder designed for videographers and filmmakers. It provides high-quality multi-track recording capabilities in a compact form factor, suitable for mounting on or below a camera. This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your DR-70D unit and the included AK-DR70C accessory kit.
Image 1.1: The TASCAM DR-70D 4-Channel Audio Recorder, designed for DSLR cameras.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety precautions before using this product. Retain this manual for future reference.
- Power Source: Use only the specified power adapter or batteries. Ensure correct battery polarity when inserting.
- Water and Moisture: Do not expose the unit to rain, moisture, or liquids. Avoid using near water sources.
- Ventilation: Do not block ventilation openings. Ensure adequate airflow around the unit.
- Heat: Keep the unit away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus that produce heat.
- Cleaning: Clean only with a dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
- Servicing: Do not attempt to service this product yourself. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
- Disposal: Dispose of batteries and electronic components according to local regulations.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- TASCAM DR-70D 4-Channel Portable Audio Recorder
- TASCAM AK-DR70C Accessory Kit, including:
- Fuzzy Windscreen
- Shock-absorbing Shoe Mount Adapter
- Two 3.5mm Stereo Cables
- USB Cable
- Owner's Manual (this document)
Image 3.1: The TASCAM AK-DR70C Accessory Kit, including a fuzzy windscreen, two 3.5mm stereo cables, and a shoe mount adapter.
4. Product Overview
4.1. Front Panel Controls and Display
The front panel of the DR-70D features the main display, input level controls, and recording buttons.
Image 4.1: Front view of the TASCAM DR-70D, showing the LCD screen, input gain knobs, and recording controls.
- LCD Display: Shows recording levels, time, battery status, and menu options.
- MENU Button: Accesses the system settings and recording parameters.
- DATA Knob: Navigates menus and adjusts values. Press to confirm selections.
- Input Gain Knobs (1/L, 2/R, 3/L, 4/R): Adjusts the input level for each of the four channels.
- PEAK Indicators: Lights up when the input signal is too high, indicating potential clipping.
- REC Button: Starts and stops recording.
- DUAL REC Indicator: Lights up when Dual Recording mode is active.
- SLATE Button: Generates a slate tone for easy audio/video synchronization.
4.2. Side Panels (Inputs/Outputs)
The DR-70D features various input and output ports for versatile connectivity.
Image 4.2: Side views of the TASCAM DR-70D, illustrating the XLR/TRS inputs on one side and the camera input/output, headphone jack, and remote port on the other.
- XLR/TRS Inputs (1-4): Four balanced inputs with phantom power (24V/48V) for connecting professional microphones.
- EXT IN 1/2: External input for connecting additional devices.
- REMOTE Port: For connecting an optional remote control.
- IN-●-OUT (Camera Input/Output): 3.5mm stereo mini-jack for connecting to a DSLR camera. The input allows monitoring camera audio, and the output sends the DR-70D's mix to the camera.
- PHONES Jack: 3.5mm stereo headphone output for monitoring audio.
- LINE OUT: Stereo line output for connecting to external mixers or other audio devices.
- USB Port: For data transfer and firmware updates.
4.3. Built-in Microphones
The DR-70D includes two built-in omnidirectional microphones for capturing ambient sound or quick stereo recordings without external mics.
Image 4.3: The TASCAM DR-70D mounted on a DSLR camera, with indicators pointing to the built-in omnidirectional microphones (Mic 1 and Mic 2).
4.4. Mounting Options
The compact design allows for versatile mounting options, including above or below a camera, or on a tripod.
Image 4.4: The TASCAM DR-70D showcasing its compact and robust design, suitable for various mounting configurations.
- Tripod Threads: Located on the bottom for mounting on tripods or follow-focus cages.
- Hot Shoe Mount: The optional AK-DR70C adapter allows mounting the DR-70D on a camera's hot shoe.
5. Setup
5.1. Powering the Unit
The DR-70D can be powered by AA batteries (x4), a USB power bank, or an optional AC adapter.
- Battery Installation: Open the battery compartment on the rear of the unit and insert four AA batteries, observing correct polarity.
- USB Power: Connect a USB power bank to the USB port for extended operation.
5.2. Inserting SD Card
The DR-70D records to SD, SDHC, or SDXC cards (up to 128GB).
- Locate the SD card slot on the side of the unit.
- Insert the SD card until it clicks into place. To remove, push the card in again until it springs out.
5.3. Connecting Microphones
Connect your microphones to the XLR/TRS inputs (1-4) or use the built-in microphones.
- For condenser microphones requiring phantom power, enable 24V or 48V phantom power in the menu settings for the respective input channels.
- The 3.5mm stereo mini jack input (EXT IN 1/2) supports standard video camera mics with plug-in power.
5.4. Mounting on Camera
To mount the DR-70D on a DSLR camera:
- Attach the shock-absorbing shoe mount adapter (from AK-DR70C) to the bottom of the DR-70D.
- Slide the adapter into your camera's hot shoe.
Image 5.1: The TASCAM DR-70D mounted on a DSLR camera, demonstrating a typical setup for videography.
5.5. Connecting to DSLR (Input/Output)
Use the provided 3.5mm stereo cables to connect the DR-70D to your DSLR camera.
- Connect the DR-70D's LINE OUT to your camera's audio input for recording the mixed audio directly to your camera.
- Connect your camera's audio output to the DR-70D's IN-●-OUT (Camera Input) to monitor the camera's audio through the DR-70D's headphone jack.
Image 5.2: Close-up of the TASCAM DR-70D's camera input jack, used for monitoring audio from the camera.
Image 5.3: Close-up of the TASCAM DR-70D's camera output jack, used for sending the recorder's audio mix to the camera.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Basic Recording
- Power on the DR-70D.
- Connect your microphones and set input levels (see 6.2).
- Press the REC button once to enter record-ready mode.
- Press the REC button again to start recording. The REC indicator will light up.
- To stop recording, press the REC button.
6.2. Input Level Adjustment
Adjust the input gain for each channel using the dedicated knobs on the front panel. Aim for levels that peak around -6dB to -12dB on the meter to avoid clipping.
- If the PEAK indicator lights up frequently, reduce the input gain.
- The DR-70D features high-quality HDDA mic preamps with up to 64dB of gain.
Image 6.1: The TASCAM DR-70D features Ultra High Definition Discrete Architecture (HDDA) mic preamps for clear audio capture.
6.3. Recording Modes
The DR-70D offers multiple recording modes to suit different scenarios:
- MONO/DUAL MONO: Ideal for recording a single performer. Dual Mono records a safety track at a lower level.
- STEREO/DUAL STEREO: Best for recording with the built-in microphones or an external stereo mic. Dual Stereo records a safety track.
- 2MIX/DUAL 2MIX: Creates stereo files from two or more mixed inputs. Dual 2MIX creates a backup track at up to 12dB lower levels to prevent distortion.
Image 6.2: Illustration of the DR-70D in MONO/DUAL MONO recording mode, suitable for single-source audio.
Image 6.3: Illustration of the DR-70D in STEREO/DUAL STEREO recording mode, for stereo sound capture.
Image 6.4: Illustration of the DR-70D in 2MIX/DUAL 2MIX recording mode, showing a setup with multiple microphones.
6.4. Using the Built-in Mixer
The DR-70D includes a built-in mixer for its four inputs, allowing for individual recording and stereo mixing. Access mixer functions via the MENU button.
Image 6.5: The TASCAM DR-70D's display showing the built-in mixer interface with four inputs and two outputs.
- Pan: Adjusts the stereo position of each input.
- Limiter: Prevents input signals from exceeding a set level, reducing distortion.
- Low-Cut Filter: Reduces unwanted low-frequency noise (e.g., wind, rumble).
- Mid-Side Decoding: For use with Mid-Side microphone configurations.
6.5. Slate Tone Generator
The slate tone generator produces reference tones to simplify audio/video alignment in post-production.
- Press and hold the SLATE button to generate a tone manually.
- Slate tones can also be set to generate automatically at the start and/or end of recordings via the menu.
Image 6.6: Close-up of the TASCAM DR-70D's SLATE button, used for generating alignment tones.
6.6. Monitoring Audio
Connect headphones to the PHONES jack to monitor your audio during recording and playback. Adjust headphone volume using the dedicated knob.
6.7. Playback
Use the transport controls (Play, Stop, Fast Forward, Rewind) on the front panel to review your recordings.
7. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the DR-70D in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Remove batteries if storing for extended periods.
- Firmware Updates: Check the TASCAM website periodically for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not power on. | Dead batteries; incorrect battery insertion; no power source. | Replace batteries; check battery polarity; connect USB power or AC adapter. |
| No sound recorded. | Microphones not connected; input gain too low; phantom power off for condenser mics; incorrect recording mode. | Check mic connections; increase input gain; enable phantom power; verify recording mode settings. |
| Distorted audio. | Input gain too high; limiter off. | Reduce input gain; enable limiter. |
| SD card error. | Card not inserted correctly; incompatible card; card full; card corrupted. | Reinsert card; use compatible SD/SDHC/SDXC card; delete files or use new card; format card (will erase data). |
| No headphone output. | Headphone volume too low; headphones not connected; incorrect monitoring source. | Increase headphone volume; check headphone connection; select correct monitoring source in menu. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tascam |
| Model | DR-70D |
| Hardware Interface | Secure Digital Card |
| Microphone Form Factor | Built-In, Lavalier, Shotgun (via inputs) |
| Audio Format | WAV |
| Headphones Jack | 3.5 millimeters |
| Digital Recording Time | Up to 120 hours (depending on card size and settings) |
| Microphone Operation Mode | Stereo (built-in mics) |
| Inputs | 4 x XLR/TRS combo, 1 x 3.5mm stereo mini-jack (EXT IN 1/2) |
| Outputs | 1 x 3.5mm stereo mini-jack (LINE OUT), 1 x 3.5mm stereo mini-jack (PHONES) |
| Phantom Power | 24V/48V selectable |
| Storage Media | SD card (64MB to 2GB), SDHC card (4GB to 32GB), SDXC card (48GB to 128GB) |
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official TASCAM website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
- Online Resources: The TASCAM website provides FAQs, driver downloads, and additional support documentation.
- Contact Support: Contact TASCAM customer service for assistance with product issues or repairs.
