Tascam DR-680MKII

The DR-680MKII is a portable multi-channel recorder that allows simultaneous recording up to 8 tracks at 96kHz/24-bit, coming equipped with 6 mic/line inputs and digital input channels.

Equipped with a TASCAM-developed high-sound quality HDDA (High Definition Discrete Architecture) microphone amplifier, the DR-680MKII has improved the sound quality of its op-amp and condensers through extensive listening tests.

The DR-680MKII allows high-sound quality multi-channel recording using multiple microphones at various settings such as drama and documentary productions, on-field recording, SE recording, and live concert recordings.

8-Track Field Recorder with up to 192kHz Resolution
6 mic/line inputs and digital input channels allow simultaneous recording of up to 8 tracks at 96kHz/24-bit.

Featuring 6 XLR/TRS inputs with phantom power, and a digital input for versatility. Record live music with multiple mics, capture sound effects in surround, or document film shoots or events with multiple microphones.

When you don't need the digital input, a two-channel mix can be recorded to tracks 7 and 8
Featuring 6 XLR/TRS inputs with phantom power, and a digital input for versatility. Record live music with multiple mics, capture sound effects in surround, or document film shoots or events with multiple microphones.

TASCAM premium HDDA (High Definition Discrete Architecture) mic preamps
Microphone preamps have a significant impact on the quality of the recorded audio. The DR-680MKII has HDDA mic preamps – designed by TASCAM with carefully selected components. Each HDDA mic preamp is built with a differential amplification circuit that employs discrete architecture, and made with parts selected for their audio quality. These preamps also provide +48V phantom power.

8-channels recording at 96kHz/24-bit (6 tracks + stereo mix track) or 2 tracks at 192kHz/24-bit
In addition to WAV format, this unit also records in BWF format - which stores the recording start times in the metadata. Using the WAV/BWF format, the DR-680MKII can record 8 channels at 96kHz/24-bit (6 tracks + stereo track) or 2 tracks at 192kHz/24-bit.

Simultaneous recording of 4 channels in MP3 format possible
Recording of MP3 files with up to 4 channels is also possible at 96k, 128k, 192k and 320k bps. This allows efficient control of files sizes when in situations requiring long recording times.　Stereo or mono file can be selected for file type.

Digital output and 6 unbalanced line outputs
The unit has a built-in coaxial digital input and output (S/PDIF, AES/EBU) and 6 unbalanced line outputs. By connecting a mixer to the outputs, this unit can be used as a 6-track playback device.

Mid-side mic decoding mode
The built-in mid-side decoder enables use with mid-side stereo mics. The 1-2, 3-4 and 5-6 channel pairs can each be set separately. Decoding is possible during recording or when monitoring.

The Cascade function allows transport control of multiple units using a master unit
When using the cascade function, the master unit controls the REC/PAUSE start (front of unit) and the STOP and PLAY/PAUSE keys (on the top) from multiple DR-680mkII units at the same time.

GANG function allows the input gain of multiple channels to be operated simultaneously
The GANG function allows multiple linked channels to be controlled at the same time on the TRIM, PAN and LEVEL screens.

Rugged, compact construction provides excellent resistance to vibration and environmental conditions
SD, SDHC and SDXC cards are used as recording and playback media, and the compact form offers excellent vibration resistance. Along with the included shoulder strap, this unit has a built-in folding stand for tabletop use, making operation easy in a variety of situations.

Improvements from the original DR-680

Improved audio quality
Through extended listening tests, a new op-amp and capacitor were selected for the mic preamps to deliver improved audio quality.

Support for SDXC cards
Readily available SD/SDHC cards are used for recording media. The DR-680MKII also supports SDXC cards, which have higher capacities - enabling recording for long periods of time.

Take (file) numbers can be reset using the "Take No. Init" function
The numbers added to recorded file names can be reset. Resetting the take numbers used for each recorded scene is now possible, making file management even easier.

Improved battery life
The newly improved battery life of the DR-680mkII means that the battery now lasts 150% longer than previous DR-680.

Dual recording function allows two files to be recorded simultaneously at different levels
A second file can be recorded simultaneously at a lower level for a distortion-free safety track. This allows you to set the recording level high and make a backup recording at a lower level in case of an unexpected sudden increase in sound level, which may create distortion in the primary file. The DR-680MKII can make −12dB backup recordings of audio input through inputs 1, 3 and 5.

Playback of multitrack recordings
The DR-680MKII can load multitrack audio files. Multitrack materials (multiple mono files) prepared with a DAW, for example, can be played back.

Improved battery life
The newly improved battery life of the DR-680mkII means that the battery now lasts 150% longer than previous DR-680.

Support for lithium batteries
In addition to alkaline and NiMH batteries, lithium batteries – which can provide extended power – are supported.

FEATURES

• SD/SDHC/SDXC cards used as recording/playback media

• 6 balanced mic/line inputs (1-4: XLR/TRS combo jacks, 5-6: TRS jacks)

• 6 unbalanced outputs (RCA pin jacks)

• COAXIAL digital input and output (S/PDIF, AES/EBU)

• Recording/playback formats: BWF, WAV, MP3

• With BWF format, recording starting times can be stored in files

• 8-track recording at 96kHz/24-bit (BWF, WAV)

• 6 mic/line inputs and stereo mix recording or 6 mic/line input and digital stereo recording

• Record MP3 files at 96, 128, 192 and 320 kbps

• Record 4-channel MP3 files

• From 4 mic/line inputs (XLR/TRS combo jacks) or 2 mic/line inputs and digital stereo inputs

• 2-track recording at 192kHz/24-bit (BWF, WAV)

• From 2 mic/line inputs or digital stereo inputs

• Digital inputs and outputs support double speed 96 kHz and quad speed 192 kHz

• Sampling frequencies

• 44.1k, 48k, 96k, 192k Hz (BWF, WAV) 44.1k, 48k Hz (MP3)

• Quantization bit depth: 16/24-bit (BWF, WAV)

• 6 channels of TASCAM HDDA mic preamps for high audio quality with 48V phantom power

• Limiter and low-cut filter available on each mic/line input

• Built-in stereo monitoring mixer for headphone mix and/or recording

• Dual-recording function allows two files to be recorded simultaneously at different levels

• GANG function allows the input gain of multiple channels to be operated simultaneously

• Pre-recording function allows the capture of audio two seconds before recording is started

• Automatic-recording function can start and stop recording automatically in response to the input signal level (−48, −24, −12 or −6 dB)

• Even when multiple tracks are used, all recordings made at the same time can be managed as a single take/file

• Track incrementation allows a recording to be split by creating a new file at the desired point without interrupting recording

• Up to 1000 takes and 5000 files can be recorded on a single card

• Mark function can be used to move to specific points (up to 99 marks per take)

• Wheel can be used to change the playback position

• Repeat playback function

• Panel lock function to prevent misoperation

• Cascade function allows transport control of multiple DR-680MKII units using a master unit

• File name format can be set to use a user-defined word or the date

• High-speed transfer of files to a computer using USB2.0

• 128×64-dot matrix display with backlight

• Built-in mono speaker with 500mW output

• Headphone output and level control (50mW+50mW/ 32ohm)

• Powered by 8 AA batteries or the included AC adapter

• USB cable and shoulder strap included

• Folding stand convenient for tabletop use

• CS-DR680 carrying case (sold separately)

• AR-DR680 case by Portabrace also available

SPECIFICATIONS

Recording media:

• SD card (64MB to 2GB)

• SDHC card (4GB to 32GB)

• SDXC card (64GB to 128GB)

File system: FAT16 / FAT32
Recording format:

• WAV: 44.1k / 48k / 96k / 192k Hz, 16 / 24-bit *192kHz: 2ch recording/playback

• BWF: 44.1k / 48k / 96k / 192k Hz, 16 / 24-bit *192kHz: 2ch recording/playback

• MP3: 44.1kHz, 16-bit, 96k to 320k bps

Analog audio inputs: MIC/LINE (BALANCED)     
Connector:

• Ch 1-4: XLR-3-31 / 1/4" (6.3mm) TRS Phone Combo jack × 4 (1: GND, 2: HOT, 3: COLD)

• Ch 5-6: 1/4" (6.3mm) TRS Phone jack × 2

Set to MIC

• Input impedance: 2.4kΩ

• Phantom power: +48V (+5%, –10%), +10mA/Ch

• Standard input level: LOW: –51.5dBu, HIGH: –75.5dBu

• Maximum input level: LOW: +3dBu, HIGH: –21dBu

• MIC input gain: 63dB

Set to LINE

• Input impedance: 10kΩ

• Standard input level: +4dBu

• Maximum input level: +24dBu

• LINE input gain: 63dB

Analog audio output
LINE OUT (UNBALANCED)

• Connector: RCA Pin jack × 6

• Output impedance: 200Ω

• Standard output level: –10dBV

• Maximum output level: +6dBV

Phones     

• Connector: 1/4" (6.3mm) Stereo Phone jack × 1

• Maximum output level: 50mW + 50mW (32Ω loaded)

Speaker

• Diameter: 35 mm

• Impedance: 8Ω

• Maximum output level: 500mW

Digital Input/Output     

• Connector: RCA Pin jack × 1

• Format: IEC60958-3 (S/PDIF), AES3-2003 (AES/EBU)

• Single: 44.1k / 48k Hz

• Double: 96kHz

• Quad: 192kHz

• Level: 0.5 Vp-p typical

• Output impedance: 75Ω ±20% unbalance

SYNC Input/Output     

• Connector: RCA Pin jack × 1

USB

• Connector: USB Mini-B type × 1

• Format: USB2.0 HIGH SPEED (480Mbps)

Power: 8 AA batterie s(LR6), AC100 - 240V, 50/60Hz
Power consumption: 8W (Phantom power on)
Continuous operation time: * All times are approx.mate.

• Alkaline batteries (EVOLTA): 6 hours (Rec: 2ch, Phantom power OFF), 4.5 hours (Rec: 2ch, Phantom power ON), 3.5 hours (Rec: 6ch, Phantom power ON)

• NI-MH batteries (eneloop): <5.5 hours (Rec: 2ch, Phantom power OFF), 4.5 hours (Rec: 2ch, Phantom power ON), 4 hours (Rec: 6ch, Phantom power ON)

• Lithium batteries (Energizer ULTIMATE LITHIUM): 11 hours (Rec: 2ch, Phantom power OFF), 9.5 hours (Rec: 2ch, Phantom power ON), 7.5 hours (Rec: 6ch, Phantom power ON)

Dimensions: 8.5" × 2.2" × 7.4" / 216.4 × 56 × 188.4 mm
Weight: 3.1 lbs. / 1.4 kg (including batteries), 2.6 lbs. / 1.2 kg (excluding batteries)
Operating temperature: 32˚F to 104˚F / 0˚C to 40˚C
Standard accessories: AC adaptor, USB cable, Shoulder strap, Owner's manual including warranty card

Audio performance
Frequency response:

• 20Hz to 20kHz +0.5/–1.5dB (Fs 44.1kHz, LINE IN to LINE OUT, Input Level=FS–1dB)

• 20Hz to 20kHz ±0.5dB (Fs 48kHz, LINE IN to LINE OUT, Input Level=FS–1dB)

• 20Hz to 40kHz +0.5/–1.0dB (Fs 96kHz, LINE IN to LINE OUT, Input Level=FS–1dB)

• 20Hz to 80kHz ±5.0dB (Fs 192kHz, LINE IN to LINE OUT, Input Level=FS–1dB)

Distortion: 0.007% (1kHz, LINE IN to LINE OUT)
S/N ratio: 100dB (A-Weight, MIC IN to DIGITAL OUT), 100dB (A-weight, LINE IN to LINE OUT)
EIN: –124dBu or less

Computer compatibility
Windows: Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8
Macintosh: Mac OS X Jaguar (V10.2), Mac OS X Panther (V10.3), Mac OS X Tiger (V10.4), Mac OS X Leopard (V10.5), Mac OS X Snow Leopard(V10.6.8), OS X Lion(V10.7), OS X Mountain Lion(V10.8)

For more information, click here to visit the manufacturers website.