Best Digital Multitrack Recorders in 2022

Last update: November 21, 2022

Did Les Paul invent multitrack recording?

No, Les Paul did not invent multitrack recording. However, he is credited with developing the first practical system for multitrack recording. His system used multiple tape recorders to record different tracks on separate tapes, which could then be mixed together to create a finished recording.

Do recording studios still use tape?

In the past, recording studios would use tape to record music. However, nowadays, many studios have switched to using digital recording instead of tape. There are a few reasons for this change. First, digital recording is less expensive than tape. Second, digital recordings can be easily edited, while tape recordings are more difficult to edit. Third, digital recordings can be stored on a computer, which is more convenient than storing tapes. Finally, digital recordings can be copied and distributed more easily than tape recordings. Overall, it seems that recording studios are moving away from using tape and towards using

How do I record and mix my own music?

There's no one answer to this question since it can vary greatly depending on your budget, equipment, and level of experience. However, here are a few tips to get you started: 1. Invest in good quality equipment. This doesn't necessarily mean you need the most expensive gear, but it's important to have microphones, interfaces, and monitors that will give you a clear and accurate representation of your music. 2. Learn the basics of sound engineering. This will help you understand how to get the best sound out of your equipment and make better mixing decisions.

How long do tape recorders record?

Most tape recorders on the market today record for between two and four hours on a standard cassette tape. Miniature digital recorders can record for up to 12 hours on a single AA battery.


Zoom F8n Multi-Track Field Recorder Review:


The original F8 has been modified to become the F8n. Online comparisons of the features are available. The build quality is excellent, the sound quality is fantastic, and I'm impressed by how many features can fit into such a compact box. The Sound Devices recorders, which have superior sounding mic pre-amps, should be taken into consideration if you're a production sound pro, though the F8n is not a slouch either. The F8n is employed as a backup recorder in large budget productions as well as in numerous mid- to low-budget productions. This product is outstanding and comes highly recommended.



Zoom H5 Four-Track Portable Recorder with Zoom APH-5 Accessory Pack for H5 Review:


SYNOPSIS: A reliable, reasonably priced recording tool with a ton of capabilities for journalists, audio producers, and podcasters.A Marantz 671 that was recording went from a motorcycle and onto a busy freeway, so I had to replace it. Let's just say that it was beyond repair after being struck by around a dozen vehicles.I did the homework, chose the H5, and I'm satisfied with it, especially given that it's far less expensive, offers a vastly greater range of capabilities, and sounds at least as well as or better than what it replaced.The record level dials are fantastic. I appreciate the Zoom. The operation is fairly simple. The menus are easier to understand than most and are controlled by a little toggle switch. The mic capsules are adequate but not exceptional, so I'm not quite sold on them. Compared to my Shure VP-88, I bought the option MS (mid side) mic, and I was a little let down by the recording quality. However, the Zoom mic is almost exactly 1/10th the price, so...The included X/Y microphone has a high sensitivity to pops and wind. Additionally, the provided foam windscreen is not very helpful. If you choose this vehicle, obtain a windscreen that is fuzzy. I chose the Zoom model because it fits well and gives the recorder a smurf-like appearance. also Don King. But it works and is necessary for almost any recording, whether it is indoors or outside.Compression can be added to recordings if desired. The 'general' preset is set to a staggering 9/1 ratio, which is great for capturing background noise but useless otherwise. Although there is a "voice" preset with a much softer touch that would be helpful, I plan to keep my compression to post for the most part.While some people have complained about the battery life, I have actually found it to be rather good. Instead of phantom power, I've been using an external battery-powered microphone, so maybe that's the issue.The fact that the device sends a monitor signal to the headphones even when it isn't recording is the biggest downside for me so far. Maybe I'm just getting old, but I've set levels, double-checked that everything looked and sounded good, and then forgotten to press the record button, only to discover minutes later (or never) that nothing was actually recording. It would be helpful for me and other pathetic recordists if there was a mechanism to toggle the monitor so that you could only hear audio when you were actually recording. I haven't located it; if you're aware of its existence and can tell me where it is, please.Overall, nevertheless, an excellent machine that will be useful to me. If I remember to hit the record button.



Zoom H4N PRO Digital Multitrack Recorder Review:


In the last ten years, I've had four Zoom H4 cameras. They keep getting better, and every time I upgrade, it's been worthwhile. I use a Zoom H4 to record the audio because I film video. Since I primarily conduct interviews, the noise floor on the older H4s has occasionally been an issue for me. The first thing I did after taking it out of the package was to compare the noise levels between it and my 2015 H4nSP. The distinction was astounding! On this new machine, there is hardly any noise at all. Let's face it, it's all about the noise, and Zoom really knocked it down on this latest iteration, even though everything else is essentially the same. Really, I'm amazed.You must wear headphones if you really want to hear the difference between the noise floors on the two units, according to my A/B test, which I demonstrate in the video. If the extreme compression used by Amazon prevents you from hearing it here, you can get a higher resolution version of this video by searching "Zoom H4nPRO vs H4nSP" on YouTube.PS: I've developed an unintentional pleasure out of writing reviews, and it always brightens my day to hear that they are useful to others (and if not, why.) Please feel free to leave a comment below if you have any additional queries, explanations, or suggestions. I nearly always react within 24 hours and do so rather promptly.



Zoom Digital Multitrack Recorder (H4n Pro All Black) Review:


In the last ten years, I've had four Zoom H4 cameras. They keep getting better, and every time I upgrade, it's been worthwhile. I use a Zoom H4 to record the audio because I film video. Since I primarily conduct interviews, the noise floor on the older H4s has occasionally been an issue for me. The first thing I did after taking it out of the package was to compare the noise levels between it and my 2015 H4nSP. The distinction was astounding! On this new machine, there is hardly any noise at all. Let's face it, it's all about the noise, and Zoom really knocked it down on this latest iteration, even though everything else is essentially the same. Really, I'm amazed.You must wear headphones if you really want to hear the difference between the noise floors on the two units, according to my A/B test, which I demonstrate in the video. If the extreme compression used by Amazon prevents you from hearing it here, you can get a higher resolution version of this video by searching "Zoom H4nPRO vs H4nSP" on YouTube.PS: I've developed an unintentional pleasure out of writing reviews, and it always brightens my day to hear that they are useful to others (and if not, why.) Please feel free to leave a comment below if you have any additional queries, explanations, or suggestions. I nearly always react within 24 hours and do so rather promptly.



Tascam DP-006 6-Track Digital Pocketstudio and Deluxe Accessory Bundle w/Headphones + Case + Cables + 16GB + Xpix Tripod + More Review:


I haven't had a lot of time with my Tascam DP-006, but I can tell that after a big cup of coffee and about 15 minutes of reading the handbook, I was up and running without any difficulty. This was a simple move for me because I previously owned a Tascam 4-track cassette recorder and more recently an Olympus digital recorder. The controls are well-known and understandable. A 2GB SD card with a demo track and 4 AA batteries are included in the box to get you going. In order to increase its adaptability when composing tunes or synching to videos, it also came with a USB connector to connect to a computer.The total value of the package is excellent! I adore the XPIX case that can be customized that was provided ( considering buying another for some of my other gear). A small tripod that can also be used as a pistol grip for a camera was also provided. This tripod works excellent with the recorder because it can be tilted slightly to make it easier to see and access all the buttons when recording. Samson corded headphones, which seem lightweight and might not last for years of use but are suitable for my current needs, two 15 ft 1/4" patch cords, a 16GB SD card, and an extra pair of AA batteries were also included in this bundle to round things up.This is a great package that checks all the necessary boxes if you're looking for a portable multi-track recording setup that's simple to use and allows you to record virtually anywhere. Good Value



Tascam, 4 AD Converter, Black, DR-40 (DR-40) Review:


I had done some research before buying this recorder because I had never owned one before. This past weekend, I used it for the first time to record my band performing live, and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. I studied some of the handbook and watched a few YouTube lesson videos to become familiar enough with it to use it without much difficulty. In addition, I purchased a 32 GB SD card and an adaptor to allow me to attach it to a microphone stand. I made music for about three hours and forty-five minutes (WAV, 24 bit, 44.1 khz). I recorded each set on three distinct SD cards because I wasn't sure how big the files would end up becoming. The average file size was 1.3 GB. It recorded a separate backup file in dual mode, totaling about 8 GB (2.6 GB x 3). It turns out that I could have gotten by with only utilizing my single 32 GB card. In a rather small room, we used only the built-in microphones in A-B mode, lowered the input level down to 26, and raised the microphone about 8 feet in the air level with the PA speakers around 10 feet distant. Although the crowd was boisterous, it didn't at all overpower the music, and there was no cutting either. Each instrument's levels were accurately recorded. Drums, bass, guitar, and vocals were all clearly audible. I'm delighted I made the purchase based on this first-hand experience and the ease of use/learning curve, and I'd suggest it to someone else looking to utilize it to record live music.



Zoom H1n Handy Recorder (2018 Model) Review:


I've been looking for an audio solution for my YouTube videos, and here it is. It's actually a three-in-one gadget that combines a USB desktop microphone, a stand-alone microphone, and a pocket- or belt-clip-sized recorder (for a separate wired lapel mic). I had tried a few wireless mic systems so that I could move around in my films without being attached to the camera, but none of them had sound quality that I was comfortable with that was within the consumer pricing range. The Zoom H1, however, sounds amazing, serves the same goal, and also performs those additional roles that I didn't really anticipate it to.The two stereo microphones that are supplied sound fantastic and have a very high fidelity to noise ratio. Every other microphone system I've used, whether connected or wireless, has had a noise issue. Either there is a lot of noise and/or hiss, or the upper end of the voice is muffled because that is how the inherent noise is being managed. But the H1 is an exception to this. Even if there isn't much noise, it is perhaps a little too bright, but I'm sure a simple windscreen might manage that.The workflow for recording through the camera versus utilizing an off-camera audio recorder is a little different, but Davinci Resolve (even the free version) makes it easy to sync it up, so don't worry if that's what's stopping you. Resolve can be instructed to simply sync everything up by waveform (assuming you also recorded audio on camera), in which case it will compare the files and automatically link and sync your audio files to their corresponding video files. There is essentially just one extra step involved in importing the audio files in addition to the video files. Other apps, I assume, offer comparable features, but some may require human intervention, in which case a slate would be useful.When using this recorder to take self-portraits, I normally wear the H1 on my belt while connected to a Sony ECMCS3 lapel mic that is fastened to my shirt. Since my camera can be controlled by a smartphone, I can roam around while filming. I only need to remember to click the record button on both devices; honestly, this has been simple to get used to. The record button on the H1 is so large that you can simply press it with your fingertip without having to look at the recorder, which is... useful.Other than the large record button, the overall build quality, workmanship, and design are my only minor criticisms. The device is made of plastic, and it's that disgusting, slippery, slick plastic that, after a few days of usage without routine cleaning, feels perpetually nasty and sweaty. Additionally, the buttons other than the record button are small and recessed, which is preferable so you don't accidently hit them. However, this makes initial setup and changing settings as necessary challenging.Additionally, I've found that when I transition from 16k to 24k sample rates, there seems to be a little bit more noise. Since I only record my spoken voice, I don't need 24k, but for someone who records music, it would be an issue. Even while there's still a very small quantity of noise, I tested it out in stillness and found that, with the volume somewhat turned up, I could hear it over headphones. I'm very certain it is the recorder because it was accurate with either the internal microphone or an external mic engaged. For what it's worth, I had the record level set at about 75 and the auto level control off.However, I still think this recorder is a steal for roughly $100 (or much less for the white one as I type this). It sounds amazing for "live" material and in-studio voice-overs, and I currently record practically all of my audio using it.I do suggest a few add-ons to make this recorder genuinely practical and adaptable. A belt clip is the first item. A desktop tripod is the second. An external lapel mic comes in third. Fourth, a windscreen to control the high end (but I don't yet have one that fits). Even though I now use one, you don't really need a pop filter with a windscreen. Having a mini-USB cable is also useful for using the recorder as a USB microphone, but you presumably already have around 15 of those. You can record anything with this recorder if you have those things, and you can obtain fantastic sound that sounds almost professional for a reasonable price.



Tascam DP-006 6-Track Digital Pocketstudio Multi-Track Audio Recorder Review:


To start with, I'm glad Tascam still makes Hardware multitrack recorders at all! They can be of great assistance while producing demos and developing songs.I thoroughly investigated the portable Tascam line and the portable Zoom brand of multi-track recorders while deciding which multi-track system to purchase. I am already thrilled to have a Tascam dr-40 for recording live performances, ideas, and notes. It offers a great balance of features and quality, but its multitrack functionality amounts to little more than a two-track recorder with one track for recording and one for playing back. For each new track, a mixdown (sometimes known as a "bounce") is necessary. I find it much simpler to have more than two tracks playing at once for my actual song demo approach. Second, it is much simpler to queue and record on a different track at a precise point in a song while putting together a demo song. On the DR-40, though, you have to listen to every take from start to finish. No doubt, there are advantages to this. You are extremely compelled to organize yourself and learn your song inside and out. However, it can also make the arduous and frustrating process of putting together a good demo much worse. The dr-40 would satisfy all of my requirements if I could split the two stereo tracks into two mono recordings, or even one mono and one stereo track, and if I could record from a queued location. But it doesn't, so I'm here.Although I like zooms transparent WAV file recording, after reading through their user manuals, I discovered that because they don't have any distinct controls, operating them is highly time-consuming and difficult. The additional capabilities of the zoom and boss recorders do not appeal to me because I only record with genuine instruments, and they also give the devices a level of sophistication that makes me uneasy. The only really Hardware Direct alternative remaining was the Tascam devices.I took into account this device, the dp-006, as well as its larger brothers, the dp-008ex and the dp-03sd, while I was considering the Tascam series. I chose the dp-006 in the end for the following reasons:First off, the portable Dr recorder range of microphones, whose sound quality is actually rather good, is used in the microphones of all three recorders. However, one of the most crucial elements in producing a good recording is the positioning of the microphone. superior to the kind of mic, the caliber of the preamps, etc. The only factors that are more significant are the surroundings and the Sound Source, which is essentially a strong performance and composition. Confoundingly, unlike the dp-006, neither the dp-008ex nor the dp-03sd feature a tripod mounting option! This undermines our ability to set the mics properly to maximize recording quality. You must use the built-in microphone preamps on the dp-008ex and dp-03sd in order to get any kind of reasonable microphone positioning. Even though the dp-006 lacks a built-in microphone preamp, you can get the most out of its internal mics. More microphones entail more equipment and a more complicated setup, which slows down workflow. In order to use external mics, we may always add an outboard mixer feeding the dp-006 if necessary.Second, compared to its larger sibling, the dp-006 has a substantially longer battery life. Its footprint is significantly more transportable. This indicates that I am more likely to carry it with me and utilize it effectively. The dp-03sd's ability to be used as a portable device and the extent to which its internal microphones may be used are both severely constrained by the need for AC power. Internal microphones are unnecessary for the dp-03sd since it is honestly probably too big to consider any meaningful placement of its internal microphones while still offering a tripod mounting option. The same tripod thread mount that the dp-006 has is desperately needed for the dp-008ex!Third, I prefer having the choice of remote control while I'm filming alone. It's interesting that the footswitch settings for the dp-008ex and dp-03sd differ. In contrast to the latter, which uses a Tascams RC 3F footswitch that I already own, the former uses a normal quarter-inch Jack single-function footswitch. But in the end, I came to the conclusion that the absence of a footswitch and improved mic location were considerably more crucial. On that topic, I usually don't require a foot switch because a good mic location puts the recorder within rather close working distance for me.Fourth and lastly, the dp-006 lacks any built-in EQ or effects. It only contains level and pan controls, which are unquestionably the most crucial controls we require to assess the likelihood of a decent mix. Effects come next, then EQ, and finally EQ comes last. That the dp-008ex and the dp-03sd devote a priceless Hardware control to a Reverb send perplexes me! While their EQ section is excellent for a few rough adjustments, it lacks the features needed to perform any real mixing. It, in my opinion, offers a perilous diversion. The dedicated Reverb knob on the dp008ex and dp03sd should be swapped out for a dedicated assignable EQ knob for a versatile EQ section, as well as an easy reverb or effects switch and even an EQ bypass button to hear the vital dry signal. The DP-006 forces and enables us to concentrate on capturing high-quality recording takes right away, focusing on mic placement, the recording environment, which we have much more control over because to the portability of the DP-006, and ultimately, more concentration on the performance and the composition. The entire full track library can then be exported to a digital audio workstation for far more potent EQ and effect processing. Ironically, though, great takes require much less laborious post-production effort!It may appear limiting to have only six tracks as opposed to eight, but it is actually much more so because it is essentially a four track recorder with two stereo recordings that can be made into mono tracks. The combinations of four mono tracks, three mono tracks and one stereo track, or two mono tracks and two stereo tracks are now available.



Tascam DR-60DMKII 4-Channel Portable Audio Recorder for DSLR Review:


This recorder has been in my possession for more than 18 months, and I have largely used it in my studio to record audio during video interviews. Since the built-in camera sound mics are inadequate, I use separate audio files that I later sync to the video. Price-wise, the DR-60 is really worthwhile. You may read about its many fantastic features in the specifications. However, I just have two criticisms, or perhaps disappointments: First off, this device uses automatic gain control, or AGC, just like every other recorder I've recently tested. This means that even when the gain level is correctly set manually during speech with a specific microphone, the gain automatically increases during periods of silence, raising the background noise level to audible, objectionable levels! I use two condenser lav microphones, and to see -12dB on the display, I must set the gain to "high" and the level to the 1 o'clock position. I frequently hear background noise when my clients are being interviewed and there are pauses in their speaking. For instance, I can hear air conditioners and refrigerator compressor noise from two studios away! Unfortunately, unlike my Radio Shack tape recorder, it lacks an AGC cut-out switch. Second, the controls on this device do not allow me to blend two mics in a reasonable manner to produce high-quality monaural sound. I could be ignorant, but I had to buy an Alto ZMX862 mixer to make this happen. Additionally, the noise issue was resolved. I was able to connect my two microphones to the Alto, which does not employ AGC, and transfer the Alto output mix to the stereo inputs of the DR-60. This also enabled me to reduce the DR-60 gain setting to LOW and set the Alto gain control to 1 o'clock, the level controls to 3 o'clock! The noise issue was solved as a result. Now, when combined with the Alto ZMX862, the DR-60 performs flawlessly. You won't likely encounter any issues if you are recording music. But for some applications, AGC is an issue that all audio engineers must overcome. Purchase one; you'll love it. Also buy the Alto!



Zoom R24 Digital Multitrack Recorder Review:


The Zoom R8 is an amazing, motivating piece of gear. You can get all the specifications elsewhere, so I won't go into the technical details. Let me just discuss how it fits into my process.* The option to enter recordings.WAV files are very good. It's one of the primary factors in my decision to go with this over alternatives like the Tascan DP series. If you recorded it on the R8, all you have to do is copy it and use it wherever you choose.* Its timing, measured in BPM, is flawless and compatible with DAWs. For instance, if I record a demo on the R8 at 120 bpm, I can easily import the R8's WAV files into the 120 bpm project I make in my DAW (Sonar X3). It simply syncs flawlessly. No need to record again. There's no need to time-stretch or edit. Onboard microphones are excellent. If you have a really quiet environment (they are sensitive and omni-directional), you should be able to record some excellent performances. They're also quite handy if you merely want to make a noise-free scratch track somewhere. I frequently use the inbuilt drum machine. Although it sounds somewhat like a late-90s Boss DR or Alesis SR-16 type sound, which I cannot honestly call authentic, it is incredibly helpful for providing something to play against. They are useful for determining the rhythm and feel you desire for your song. Although I generally track my own patterns, the R8 comes with a ton of pre-made ones.All the aforementioned were utilised in one of my most recent tracks. I made some drum patterns in the R8, then used the inbuilt mic and the 1/4" input to record an electric bass and two acoustic baritone ukulele tracks (the lead and rhythm). A few vocal recordings were also recorded by me to complete the composition. The bass and ukulele tracks were already perfect when I was ready to create a complete production version of the song, so I just imported them into Sonar X3. Then I recorded full drums and synth in the DAW after re-recording the vocals. The bass and ukulele, on the other hand, are original R8 instruments.I've also recorded a couple finished tracks inside of it, utilizing the built-in mixing and effects. The effects can be altered quite a bit, and there are some surprises. For instance, you can perform a subtle tempo-synched delay. Additionally, the original tracks are not damaged as you bounce down them. You can easily recall them by returning to the file system. Simply put, the machine has a ton of depth. I've owned it for a while, yet I still discover new things inside of it.* I'd suggest using it in conjunction with a solid voice preamp or processor. Personally, I enjoy using the TC Electronics Harmony G-XT. Use rechargeable battery technology. It works perfectly with 4 Eneloop AAs. I employ the Case Logic LNEO-10 for a case. The R8 and its manual fit neatly in the main pocket of the netbook case, which also has a side pocket for the USB adapter and wires. A fantastic sound companion for the R8 is the Volca Keys. The Keys can create a wide range of sounds, including strong leads, flute-like tones, shimmering synth pads, and excellent bass noises. It's really simple to play and very flexible. I bring the R8, a solid body electric ukulele, and Volca Keys with me when I travel. I always travel with a little, battery-operated studio.Search SoundCloud for "markrossmore travel 03 demo" to hear an instrumental I created aboard a cruise ship using nothing but the R8 and setup mentioned above. The ukulele (both clean and distorted), the Volca Keys (both as bass and synth lead), and the R8's drums are used to create a straightforward, upbeat composition.Drawbacks? If you have three drum patterns (for example, a verse, chorus, and bridge), you only have three acceptable recording tracks because each drum pattern needs its own track. This might or might not be a major deal, depending on the song. I've used a single four-bar drum pattern across a couple songs I've recorded on the R8. Not a deal breaker, to repeat.However, I like how compact the unit is. It moves gracefully.


How many channels does music record?

There are many different types of music recordings, and each one has a different number of channels. The most common type of music recording is a stereo recording, which has two channels. Other types of music recordings can have four, eight, or even more channels.

How many minutes of music can a cassette hold?

How many minutes of music can a cassette hold? The length of time a cassette can hold music depends on the size of the cassette. A cassette that is 60 minutes long can hold about 30 minutes of music on each side.

How many tracks can you record on tape?

A tape recorder, also called a tape deck or cassette deck, is a piece of sound recording and reproduction equipment that uses magnetic tape for storing audio signals. Tape recorders were first developed in the 1930s and became widely used in the 1950s. Over the years, the technology has evolved to include digital recording capabilities. The number of tracks that can be recorded on tape depends on the format of the tape and the recorder. The most common format is the stereo cassette, which can record two tracks. Some recorders can record four or more tracks, depending on the model.

What are three advantages to multitrack recording over live recording?

There are three main advantages to multitrack recording over live recording: 1. Multitrack recording allows you to record each instrument or vocal separately, giving you much more control over the final sound of the recording. 2. You can easily edit individual tracks in a multitrack recording, whereas with live recording everything is set in stone. 3. Multitrack recording gives you the ability to add effects to individual tracks, something that is very difficult to do with live recording.

What do I need for multi-track recording?

In order to do multi-track recording, you need a few things. First, you need a device that can record multiple tracks at the same time. This could be a digital audio interface, a stand-alone recorder, or a multi-track recorder built into a mixing board. Second, you need a way to get audio into that device. This could be done with microphones, direct inputs, or a combination of both. Third, you need some sort of monitoring system so you can hear what you're recording. This could be headphones, speakers, or a combination of both. Finally

What is a 8-track recorder?

An 8-track recorder is a device that records and plays back audio on eight separate tracks. It is typically used in professional recording studios and for live music performances.