I own the older tape model also but wanted 8 channels to record with. The DP01 is a little different and takes a little more effort to learn to use but the possibilities are much greater than the older tape models that get worn heads that can load up and belts that deteriorate. The DP01 has a printable quick start manual on line that will get you recording quickly. There are individual channel record buttons to arm each track and a main record button to start recording. The directions don't differentiate between these and at first may seem confusing. I think many have given up on digital units because of un clear instructions. The machine is truely worth the learning effort. It would be much nicer if it had an internal built in reverb like some of it's newer models. Outboard reverb units tend to be overpriced for what you really get! The 40 gig hard drive is worth it's weight in gold saving on tapes laying all over the place. Naming the songs on the hard drive could have been made easier. Like many computer generated programs or texting, one learns to use short abbreviations quickly. I rate it a 4 out of 5 because of difficulty learning to use factor but overall worth the effort.Read full review
If your used to the old analog recording process, prepare yourself! This recorder is easy to use once you learn how to operate.Do not look at the owners manual, use or find online the quick start guide. This unit is notorious for disappearing tracks (check on line) YOU MUST SAVE EVERYTHING AFTER YOU RECORD!!!!!!!! It is a very good bang for your buck! If you need a power cord, Tascam wants alot for it(I think about $60 total) but I bought a universal for $9 and its been working great.
This is a nice digital recording device. The only drawback is that it does not have a reverb effect. (thus the "good" rating)So if you want this feature, you will either have to get the DP01FX, or a seperate vocal processor, which I am in the process of trying to get. I am having a lot of fun, but I'll probably never be able to figure out how to do all the advanced features. The sound quality is very good, and I like the recording space that the hard drive provides as opposed to units that only have a sound card.
For the prices that the DP01 sells for, this unit gives a lot for a small price. It is easy to use. It comes with a fairly basic manual but gives all the info needed. Personally, with so many separate effects options, I would not recommend the money to purchase the newer DP01FX that comes with on board effects. I think back to the first tape Tascam portastudio that I bought years ago for $1000, and can't believe that you can buy this piece of equipment used for so little. It gives the home recording novice all the features you need to get started. Good luck!
The only problem I had with the unit that it never came with a power supply and no manual (Very disappointing). I was able to down load the manual off the internet, but I had to order a power supply to see if the recorder even worked. The unit works. I am happy with the unit now. I always wanted a digital recorder, I have a multi track recorder, but it is analog. next time I will purchase a digital recorder that has the capabilities to record a disc in the unit itself. Kevin McCaskey
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