Tascam’s previous field recorder was the HD-P2, which is a 2 channel recorder with timecode. Its a pretty sweet recorder.
But now they’ve stepped up their game. In the past couple of years multi channel recorders have been getting cheaper and better. And with the explosion of DSLR film making it creates the stronger need for a dedicated soundie, thus improving our need, which is a huuuuge plus. One thing that really hasn’t been improving lately is the quality to price ratio with sound gear, until now.
Tascam’s DR-680 is possibly a game changer. yeah it doesn’t have timecode, but its not like you can’t stick timecode into an unused input, CAUSE ITS GOT 6! And in the game I’m in, timecode isn’t an issue. So for less than $1000 you’re getting a 6 channel recorder. My idea setup is running my 4 mixer inputs to channels 1-4 and then sending a mix to 5 and 6. Post will wet their panties. Buuuut for now, my current mixer doesn’t have dedicated outs for each input. I’ve got the older PSC mk4 mark2 mixer. although a 4 channel mixer, no dedicated outs. Thus requiring me to step up to the Alphamix or ideally, SD 552.
MANGLERMIXER 