TASCAM Portacapture X8 32-bit float HDR Audio Recorder

In this week’s episode, we have a look at and listen to the Tascam Portacapture X8 32-bit float audio recorder. This hand-held sound recorder includes a set of stereo microphones (X/Y and A/B) plus 4 XLR microphone/line inputs. With its 32-bit float capabilities, it can record wide dynamic range audio and when you’re recording spoken word or singing vocals, even if the levels exceed 0dB, you can recover the audio in post production. We have a closer look at the features and performance in this extensive review.

Copyright 2022, Curtis Judd

#TASCAM #Portacapture #X8

Index:
00:00 Start
00:12 Summary
00:22 Recorded with X8 and RODE NT1
01:21 4 XLR/TRS inputs
01:45 32-bit float HDR recording
02:33 Sample rates 44.1 to 192kHz
02:48 +24 or +48V phantom power
02:58 Practical noise sample
04:22 microSD cards
04:48 Included stereo microphones
05:43 3.5mm input and output
05:53 Headphone jack
06:10 In-build speaker
06:23 Bluetooth app control Android/iOS
06:51 Handling noise
07:13 Power options and performance
07:51 USB-C audio interface for computer or mobile
08:12 Pre-record
08:47 Color touch screen
09:06 Easy modes
09:39 Podcast sound pads
09:53 Effects — Low cut, limiter, compressor, EQ
10:22 Mounting options
10:36 Warranty
10:48 Plastic build
11:34 Limited dynamic range relative to other 32-bit float recorders
12:38 Recover clipped audio sample
13:59 USB Audio Interface 24-bit max
14:14 Handling noise
15:12 No redundant recording media
15:44 Reflective screen
15:56 Arm then record?
16:45 192kHz sample rate hum above 20kHz
17:23 Need windshield for outdoor recording
17:52 Price
18:05 My recommendation
20:23 ZOOM H6, H8, or Portacapture X8
24:11 Please buy my courses

[curtisjudd]

This video is normalized to -23 LUFS so that I didn't have to do any post processing and so you can hear how it sounds directly out of the recorder.

[aclarkedesign]

On 32 bit Float…I don’t know about anyone else, but I never thought I’d see the day when you could record something with clipping or really low and still be able to adjust to make it sound good. Blows my mind.

[crowlsyong]

Curtis I appreciate this. Here are some things I like (in no particular order)
1.) The notes at the beginning. Specifically the timing of them, like you understand that I can pause it if I need to which is great.
2.) Colors, I watch these at night sometimes and you keep the colors....gentle on my eyes
3.) You're cadence and voice. It's accurate, paced properly, clear, concise, relevant, and human.
4.) The info. You give us exactly what we need to know.
5.) Kindness. I see you pop up on other channels to comment sometimes and it's always kind, supportive, and makes me happy.
6.) Honesty honesty honesty. You tell it like it is.
7.) Have a great day man. Thanks for doing what you do. We random humans are ACTUAL humans that ACTUALLY appreciate you! Haha be well.

[rosshoyt]

Easily the best review I've seen for this product (and similar). Thanks so much!

[kblam]

Bought a Tascam Portacapture X8 on the strength of this clear and comprehensive review! Thanks, Curtis.

[DJBooks]

I brought it two weeks ago. I was waiting for this review. I like the interface and ease of use. It's a great piece of kit.

[luke]

Nice! I love it! I'm addicted to taking high quality audio samples of more than just speech. I really like this channel! Subscribed. Great video!

[AllenCavedo]

There are many reasons why yours is an excellent review but let me comment on one aspect. The lighting and product presentation is the best in the business. The colorful background, controlled depth of field combined with high res image and sharp focus make a very engaging video.

[ernie]

I've had the DR100 MK3 for a couple years now and have not been disappointed. It has worked well even under fairly rough conditions, including heavy costal moisture in the air.

[patentjt]

Just got the X8 and really enjoying it thus far. Coming from a mixpre 6-ii, the large touchscreen and easy to navigate UI is a godsend. As Curtis points out, the flexibility/versatility is probably what is the best thing about the X8.

[KyleSVT]

Always love a new Curtis Judd video! Thanks for making these videos, really helps to find what gear to get and just fun getting knowledge on things

[ChaseTheSummit]

Does the Portacapture have Mix Minus for USB or phone inputs?

[Jyotirmayshuva]

Your review is by far the best and most elaborated with detailed explanation. Now waiting for your Zoom F8n Pro review and workflow because i am gonna have one next month :D

[EVOlutionHTCg]

Thanks Curtis for this review. Definitely not wasting my time or money on this device. Nice review.

[nikspring]

Thanks for another great review, Mr Judd.

[djima]

hahah, I love the expression when discussing the price. Thanks for another great review.

[DavidConnors]

Very detailed review - nice work Curtis!

[jlaw]

Excellent review, thanks for the attention to detail.

[Whaever_]

Wow! What a great review as always. Thanks so very much!!! :D

[gummoman]

im really waiting for this video. I have heard a lot of problems of the Portacapture X8 and I was waiting for your review to make a good decision.