TASCAM Portacapture X6 is a new handheld 96kHz audio recorder with up to 6 tracks, ready-to-use presets, and 32-bit float support.
32-bit float is the future for mobile audio recorders. You can observe that from the last releases. More and more companies rely on 32-bit float. With the Portacapture X8, for example, TASCAM has a direct competitor to the popular Zoom H6 or H8 with 32-bit support.
Today, TASCAM has added another member to this series. The Portacapture X6 is the smaller brother of the X8. Less connectivity but still a very intriguing package.
TASCAM Portacapture X6
To the hard facts: the new Portacapture X6 can record 6 tracks simultaneously, consisting of four tracks and 2 mixes in up to 96kHz and 32-bit float. This is a step up from other portable recorders like the Zoom H4. With 32-bit float, you have a wider dynamic range giving you more headroom to control and flexibility over your recordings.
Connection side, you get two XLR inputs (mic/line) with phantom power support (24V/48V). Two are a bit limited, if you want more, you have to go for the X8. There are also dual built-in mics with switchable AB/true-XY patterns. Plus, you get a stereo line input.
Additionally, you can turn the Portacapture X6 into a 6-in/2-out USB audio interface. The recorder is operated via a 2.4-inch color touch display, dedicated app-like controls, a wheel, and buttons. Wireless remote control from smartphones/tablets is possible with the optional AK-BT1 Bluetooth® adapter (sold separately).
Then, it also includes timecode sync via Bluetooth. According to TASCAM, it will be supported by firmware update 1.10.
The Portacapture X6 also features handy apps, which are presets for specific application areas. You can choose between different modes:
- manual: basic app of the unit for multitrack recording of up to six channels
- podcasts: recording with up to two people
- field: for recording outdoors
- voice: for capturing interviews, dictation, and meetings
- music: for easily capturing instrumental and vocal performances
- ASMR: the screen visual effect changes in response to the input sound.
At first glance an exciting little recorder with a good feature set. With its two XLR inputs, you can compare it with the Zoom H4N Pro. The feature side, however, it’s more modern and interesting. Above all, 32-bit float is a highlight that the Zoom H series does not yet have but hopefully soon.
TASCAM Portacapture X6 is available soon for $369 USD/355€.
More information here: TASCAM
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