Tascam DP-24SD 24-Track Digital Portastudio Multi-Track Audio Recorder, 8 XLR Inputs, Effects, Mastering, Color Screen

This recorder is amazing. I was able to record 8 tracks fairly quickly the day I received it. There are lots of YouTube videos showing how to use it. I'm still working of figuring out the effects for vocals and guitars, but it is fairly simple to use. One of the best things about it is that it is a standalone recorder. It does everything from recording tracks to the mix down without the need for a computer. All I had to do after the mixdown was put the SD card in my computer and transfer the mixdown wave file to my computer. I highly recommend this recorder for anyone who likes recording their own music. The sound quality is also amazing. Sounds like a studio recording. I love it!!!!! Great price too for everything this recorder can do.

I wanted something I could record to without worrying about DAW latency issues, software compatibility, etc., and this unit seemed like my best option. I'm not looking to make the White Album, just some backing tracks for solo gigs and maybe a few demos and vanity "sell at the gig for ten bucks" CDs. At that, the DP-24 SD excels.It's a very solid piece of hardware and more than capable of producing professional-sounding recordings without a HUGE learning curve. Not to say there's NO learning curve; there is. It took me a couple weeks to become fairly proficient with the thing, and that only after several hours alone with YouTube tutorials, of which there are many. If you're willing to put in the time, though, it quickly becomes second nature and you can crank out decent recordings in a fairly quick and painless fashion.It's also easy to transfer WAV files to and from the unit and into (or out of) your DAW. I've finally decided on a workflow in which I record all my tracks to the DP24, then load them into my laptop for final mix-down and mastering. It's all fairly seamless once you get the hang of it.I also plan to use the unit as a live mixer at solo gigs, since it has all the effects (verb, exciter, compressor, etc.) that I need for live shows, and will allow me to easily play the backing tracks along with my live performance.I paired my DP24 with a good set of earphones, some mid-priced studio monitors, a mid-priced mic, studio pre-amp, pop filter, acoustic panels, etc., to make a fairly decent little home studio that fits in one corner of my dining room. All told, I probably dropped less that a grand for the entire set up and the results I've been getting are at least as good as what I've gotten in "real" studios in the past.For the money, this unit is an amazing piece of hardware!

The technology has finally caught up! Previous versions of the portastudio used CDs or tapes. Now, you can depend entirely on SD cards/USB, making this a perfect component for regular recording and later uploading to a more advanced editing setup. Recording can be done in seconds, with no setup or preparation, taking away all of the headaches of moving your regular computer into your studio, setting up drivers, etc. I keep this as part of my electronic drum setup, with it serving as a daily rehearsal/practice recorder. I'm also involved in a satellite recording project, and this works very well for that, with .wav files easily uploaded and then saved back to a laptop or desktop.I would classify this as a high-end demo recorder. If you're looking for a more serious studio setup, you'll want to explore multiple components at a higher price point (probably closer to $1000-2000). But for the non-professional that is tired of using computers, this should address all of your needs at a very reasonable price point. Unlike older CD or four-track recorders with lots of moving parts, this unit should stay in good repair if well looked after and I expect it will hold its re-sale value well.

This 24 channel recorder has 8 assignable inputs, onboard effects, click track, guitar tuner, 32GB SD storage, plus, plus, plus. Amazingly affordable! Very intuitive!

Even though there's quite a learning curve to this machine, it works very well.I am happy with it.

I remember when a couple rolls of 2" tape (15 minutes each) used to cost more than a block of studio time. Back in the day. When home recording started to become a possibility I had a Fostex Model 80, 8 tracks on 1/4" tape. It sounded surprisingly good. I spent a lot of time soldering patch bays back then. Then came ADAT's and finally Pro Tools. Having worked with those (and more) formats dating back to 1972 I cannot believe what this recorder can do for $350. The interface is the most intuitive I have ever used. There are certainly limitations compared to more expensive computer based systems but for the price of good guitar pedal you get 24 tracks (8 mic pre's) plus effects, mastering, you name it. We were recording a scant few minutes after opening the box. Record your tracks, mix and master no problem. Or pop out the SD card and take it to a legit studio with all the latest gear and mix away. The BEST audio purchase I have made in a long long while. Thanks Tascam.