TASCAM Ships HD-P2 Portable Stereo Recorder

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TASCAM's HD-P2, unveiled at the AES show in New York this past October, is now shipping. The unit, which received Pro Audio Review's PAR Excellence Award, answers the call of remote recording engineers as the professional solution for the challenging requirements of live and on-location recording. It records at up to 192kHz/24-bit resolution for audiophile quality to Compact Flash media, locked to the built-in SMPTE timecode input. The Broadcast WAVE audio files are instantly available through the built-in high-speed FireWire computer connection.

"The HD-P2 includes the features that professionals rely upon, such as timecode sync, built-in analog limiting and dependable performance," says Rick McClendon, Division Manager for TASCAM. "We prepared the HD-P2 for grueling professional use while keeping it affordable and simple enough for anyone to use. It's the least-expensive recorder to ever feature timecode lock for recording and playback, and the 192kHz/24-bit audio specs are nothing short of phenomenal. The HD-P2 records to Compact Flash media — constantly saving the audio to prevent against data loss — and the time-stamped Broadcast WAVE files are available for instant use in any DAW."

Unlike consumer MP3 sketchpads, the professional HD-P2 incorporates high-end features like a SMPTE timecode input for synchronization to external devices while in record or playback. When recording, the HD-P2 writes time-stamped Broadcast WAVE audio files that can be loaded into your DAW projects with sample accuracy. Its XLR microphone inputs include phantom power and a limiter to curb distortion during unpredictable live events. The user interface has been designed for fast and intuitive use under stressful one-take-only situations, and its large, angled LCD is perfect for any application from over-the-shoulder location recording to concert recording and commercial use.

HD-P2 Recording features:

• Stereo recording to Compact Flash media
• 44.1kHz to 192kHz recording resolution at 16- or 24-bit
• Time-stamped Broadcast WAVE file format is easily imported into DAW
software and spotted into projects with sample accuracy
• Retake button allows user to re-do last recording with a single button press
• Audio files continually re-saved to safeguard against data loss
• Comprehensive system and transport control from the front panel or a PS/2 keyboard

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HD-P2 I/O features:

• XLR mic inputs with phantom power and analog peak limiter
• Unbalanced stereo RCA I/O
• S/PDIF digital I/O
• Headphone output
• Built-in mono microphone and speaker for desktop interview applications
• Analog level controls allow easy operation without the need to look at the unit
• FireWire interface for fast data transfer to a computer

HD-P2 Synchronization features:

• SMPTE/LTC timecode input on locking XLR balanced jack
• Timestamps Broadcast WAVE recordings from SMPTE input
• Chase locks to incoming SMPTE timecode
• Video clock input resolves to house clock
• Tri-level sync support for HDTV applications
• Includes Frame Lock, Lock and Release and flexible Freewheel settings for unpredictable timecode sources
• Pull-up and Pull-down sample rates included for video format compatibility

HD-P2 Convenience Features:

• Familiar tape machine-style layout and function
• Angled screen for table-top or shoulder strap use
• Large, uncluttered LCD display
• Shortcut keys and LED indicators for frequently-accessed functions
• Recessed Compact Flash slot
• Runs on (8) readily available AA batteries or DC power adapter
• Approximately 5.5 hours of operating time on battery power

For more information, visit their web site at www.tascam.com.