Thread: Need Help With TASCAM DP-01

I recently acquired a good condition Tascam DP-01 Hard Disk Portastudio(40GB), not the FX Model. For the line inputs there is only to 1/4" jacks ( NOT XLR) ( WTF right?). So what cables or type of pre amp would I need to record via my Condenser mic ( w/ 48v)? This is my portable studio not my home studio by the way.

The DP-01 has two TRS inputs, which Tascam says can also be used for dynamic mic, guitar or as line inputs. You cannot plug a condenser microphone into them that requires phantom power. If you want to use a condenser mic, you need to put it through an external pre-amp that can supply the 48V phantom power to the microphone and produce a line-level output that you plug into the DP-01.

What make and model of pre-amp you use is a function of your budget and where in the world you are, as different countries (or at least opposing sides of the Atlantic) have different relative pricing structures. In the UK, the DAV BG1 or the Audient Mico are excellent quality pre-amps and good value at around £300 - £350 for two channels. At the bottom end of the market, ART does a few single- and dual-channel pre-amps with analogue output, and these tend to be cheaper on the Western side of the Atlantic.

Let us know what your budget is and where you are located.