Tascam HD-P2 Hi-Res Portable Stereo Recorder

Manufacturer's Description for Tascam HDP2 Hi-Res Portable Stereo Recorder

Answering the call of remote recording engineers, the TASCAM HD-P2 Portable High-Definition Stereo Audio Recorder is the professional solution for challenging live and on-location applications. Co-developed with Frontier Design Group, it records at up to 192kHz/24-bit resolution to Compact Flash media, and its audio files are instantly available to DAWs through the built-in high-speed FireWire computer connection. Unlike consumer MP3 sketchpads, the professional HD-P2 incorporates high-end features like a SMPTE timecode input for synchronization to external devices while in record or playback. The user interface is designed for fast and intuitive use under stressful one-take-only situations, and its large, angled LCD is perfect for any application from over-the-shoulder location recording to concert recording and commercial use.

High-definition Recording, To Go

The HD-P2 records in stereo from 44.1kHz to 192kHz, at 16- or 24-bit, to affordable Compact Flash media. Not only is Compact Flash absolutely silent, so no transport noise will show up on your recording, but the recorded audio is written directly as Broadcast WAVE files for immediate use in digital audio workstations. The unit even includes a FireWire jack for the fastest possible transfer of files to your PC or Mac computer.

The professional design of the HD-P2 extends to convenient details that pro users will appreciate. The Retake button allows the user to delete the last recording and set up to re-record with a single button press. As audio is recorded, the file headers are continually re-saved to protect your recording against accidental data loss. Files can be named from the front panel interface or using a PS/2 keyboard, which can also be used to control transport and setup features.

On the input side, the unit has a pair of XLR mic inputs with phantom power and analog peak limiting to curb distortion during unpredictable live events. The input level control allows the user to change the level without taking their eyes off the action. The HD-P2 also features unbalanced RCA ins and outs as well as S/PDIF digital I/O. Monitoring is available through a headphone out - again, with its own ergonomic level control - using a built-in speaker. A built-in microphone is also provided for interviews and educational use.

Built-in Synchronization

TASCAM's HD-P2 comes standard with a full-featured timecode input - making it the most affordable recorder with built-in timecode ever made. Incoming LTC is connected to the locking XLR input for timestamping your Broascast WAVE files from a central clock. Not only does the recorder timestamp your recorded audio with sample accuracy, the HD-P2 chases incoming timecode during playback for review or loading into an editor. A video clock input allows frame edge resolve to a central blackburst source or use as a lock-and-release timecode slave. There's also a freewheel setting for use with unpredictable timecode sources.

For maximum compatibility with the post production world, the HD-P2 supports pull-up and pull-down sample rates, even at high-resolution settings. The video clock input accepts tri-level sync for high-definition television production.

On Location

The shoulder-slung design of the HD-P2 with its included locking strap makes it a natural choice for film production recording. The Compact Flash media is safely recessed and latched to prevent accidental ejection, and audio can be recorded locked to timecode and video reference for absolute lock. It runs for approximately 5.5 hours on readily-available AA alkaline batteries, and weighs less than two pounds with batteries installed. At the end of the day, recordings can be instantly transferred to an editor through the FireWire jack or a CF reader for use in a non-linear editor to sync dailies or to conform dialog during post.

Precise Live Recording Quality

The HD-P2's 192kHz/24-bit recording resolution is so precise, you can almost hear what brand of cork was used for the conductor's baton. Its Compact Flash transport doesn't make any noise, so you don't need to worry about machine noise on the recording. The high-quality mic preamps provide phantom power to handle sensitive condenser microphones, and the analog limiter protects the recording against sudden transient distortion. With the high capacity of today's Compact Flash media, you might even be able to enjoy the performance without constantly watching the time remaining meter.

You don't need a union card to figure it out

Although the HD-P2 was designed for demanding film shoots and live concerts, it's still simple and affordable enough for use in everyday classrooms, churches and home studios. School band and orchestra leaders can use it to record rehearsals for students, and then record concerts to sell for fundraising. House-of-worship leaders can record their services for duplication on CD, and its high-speed FireWire connection provides instant access to the recording, so that CDs can be authored and duplication can begin as the laity files out of the church.

With professional connectivity, built-in synchronization, high-resolution recording and Compact Flash convenience, the HD-P2 is the professional solution for serious recording in a reliable, portable package. zZounds is an authorized dealer of Tascam products.

HD-P2 Recording features:

Stereo recording to Compact Flash media

44.1kHz to 192kHz recording resolution at 16- or 24-bit

Time-stamped Broadcast WAVE file format is easily imported into DAW software and spotted into projects with sample accuracy

Retake button allows user to re-do last recording with a single button press

Audio files continually re-saved to safeguard against data loss

Comprehensive system and transport control from the front panel or a PS/2 keyboard

HD-P2 I/O features:

XLR mic inputs with phantom power and analog peak limiter

Unbalanced stereo RCA I/O

S/PDIF digital I/O

Headphone output

Built-in mono microphone and speaker for desktop interview applications

Analog level controls allow easy operation without the need to look at the unit

FireWire interface for fast data transfer to a computer

HD-P2 Synchronization features:

SMPTE/LTC timecode input on locking XLR balanced jack

Timestamps Broadcast WAVE recordings from SMPTE input

Chase locks to incoming SMPTE timecode

Video clock input resolves to house clock

Tri-level sync support for HDTV applications

Includes Frame Lock, Lock and Release and flexible Freewheel settings for unpredictable timecode sources

Pull-up and Pull-down sample rates included for video format compatibility

HD-P2 Convenience Features:

Familiar tape machine-style layout and function

Angled screen for table-top or shoulder strap use

Large, uncluttered LCD display

Shortcut keys and LED indicators for frequently-accessed functions

Recessed Compact Flash slot

Runs on (8) readily available AA batteries or DC power adapter

Approximately 5.5 hours of operating time on battery power

Dimensions and Weight in Packaging

Shipping Weight: 6 lbs

Shipping Dimensions: 16 x 11 x 5 in