Allowing you to record 4 tracks of audio simultaneously while providing Wi-Fi enabled transport control and file sharing, the Tascam DR-44WL Portable Audio Recorder with Wi-Fi features a built-in XY stereo microphone and dual combo XLR inputs, and is capable of tracking in up to 24-bit/96 kHz resolution. Thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi, which requires no external network, you can control all transport functions via a free iOS and Android app. Additionally, you can use the built-in Wi-Fi to stream playback to your mobile device, as well as transfer files directly to your smart device or computer, for quick upload to social media.
The recorder features Dual-Level recording, which records duplicate tracks at a lower volume, to create a lower-level safety track. It also supports Dual-Format recording, which tracks simultaneously as WAV and MP3 files, so you have access to smaller file sizes for sharing while maintaining the higher-quality WAV as a master track. The DR-44WL records to SD cards, but includes a microSD card adapter for additional recording options. Also included are a windscreen, a mic grip, a shoe mount adapter, a 4GB microSD card, an AC adapter, 4 AA batteries, a USB cable, and a carrying case.
A pair of studio-quality condenser microphones top the DR-44WL, arranged in a true XY pattern for detailed imaging and phase coherence. The mic capsules are built to withstand up to 132 dB SPL - as loud as a jet airplane - without distorting. Record concerts and rehearsals with the confidence that your recording won't be distorted. In addition to the great-sounding new capsules, a shock-mounting system has been developed for lower handling noise and rumble. The capsules are suspended in a rubber mount that avoids low frequency noises when handheld, mounted on a camera, or used on a tripod.
If levels get so high that your track is distorted, that recording can't be saved with any kind of mastering. The DR-44WL includes a limiter to keep levels under control, but an even more effective system is the Dual-Level Recording feature. Dual-Level Recording is a function that solves this problem by simultaneously recording two stereo files at different levels. If your recording is distorted, you have a lower level "safety track" that won't be distorted. Note, when the Dual-Level recording function is enabled, a maximum of two stereo tracks can be recorded simultaneously.
The XLR/TRS external input jacks accept either microphone or line level sources. Balanced or unbalanced signals can be plugged in, at either +4 or -10 levels, using the locking XLR connector or the 1/4" jack. The DR-44WL supplies 48V Phantom Power for condenser microphones that require it. Both the internal mics and external inputs are used during 4-channel recording, for live recording.
A programmable gain amplifier (PGA) is used to adjust the level of the audio inputs. In many devices, the audio codec level is adjusted to control levels. In the DR-44WL, the mic gain circuit is independent from the A/D converter for low noise performance as well as programmable gain (manual, automatic, or controlled over Wi-Fi.). The CIRRUS LOGIC CS42L52 is used in the DR-44WL. The A/D - D/A chip features both great audio performance and low power use for longer battery life. The built-in mics and the external inputs both pass through this low-noise audio input circuit.
The DR-44WL can record both the internal microphones and the external inputs simultaneously for a 4-track recording. Use the microphones to capture the sound in the room while recording a board mix from the PA mixer. Other 4-channel applications include drum set recording, surround recording, and film production. The DR-44WL creates its own Wi-Fi network with your iOS or Android phone, and a free app called DR Control controls remote operation without touching the unit. The app allows recording to be started and stopped, and can be used to check and adjust input levels.
Wi-Fi transmission range is about 65 feet (20m) - well beyond the reach of infrared remotes - so the recorder can be placed wherever the recording sounds best. Audio from the DR-44WL can also be streamed over Wi-Fi to check the recording. Plug headphones into your smartphone and listen to a near-real time feed from the recorder.
