TASCAM AK-BT1

By Brian Long

Introduction

The TASCAM AK-BT1 is a compact Bluetooth adapter designed to add wireless remote-control capability to compatible TASCAM recording products. Installed directly into the dedicated Bluetooth connector on a supported recorder, the adapter provides a convenient wireless connection to compatible smartphones, tablets, computers, and other supported devices without requiring a separate external receiver.

When paired with compatible TASCAM hardware and software, the AK-BT1 allows recorder functions to be accessed remotely—particularly useful when the recorder is positioned on a camera rig, near a performance, on talent, or somewhere that makes direct physical operation inconvenient. Compatible products include models such as the Portacapture X6, Portacapture X8, and DR-10L Pro, with available functions determined by the connected recorder and its software or firmware.

Features, Specifications, and Manuals

Features
  • Bluetooth Expansion for Compatible TASCAM Products: Adds supported Bluetooth communication to TASCAM equipment equipped with the appropriate Bluetooth device connector.
  • Wireless Remote Control: Allows compatible recorder functions to be operated remotely from supported smartphones and tablets.
  • Direct Recorder Integration: Plugs directly into the dedicated Bluetooth connector on compatible TASCAM equipment without requiring an external receiver or additional audio cabling.
  • Portacapture X8 Compatibility: Enables Bluetooth remote control of the Portacapture X8 from a compatible smartphone or tablet.
  • Portacapture X6 Compatibility: Adds wireless remote-control functionality to the compact Portacapture X6.
  • DR-10L Pro Compatibility: Supports compatible wireless-control and synchronization workflows with the DR-10L Pro.
  • Portacapture Control Support: Compatible Portacapture recorders can be operated using TASCAM’s Portacapture Control application when the AK-BT1 is installed.
  • Remote Access to Recorder Functions: Available controls depend on the connected recorder and application, allowing important recording functions and settings to be accessed without physically touching the recorder.
  • Useful for Camera and Field Rigs: Wireless control is particularly useful when a recorder is attached to a camera, tripod, stand, or production rig.
  • Useful for Bodypack Recording: Compatible recorders worn by talent can be accessed without repeatedly removing or handling the recording system.
  • Wireless Timecode Workflows: Compatible host products can use the AK-BT1 as part of supported wireless timecode synchronization workflows.
  • Compact Form Factor: Measures approximately 22.3 × 14.9 × 5.7mm, adding minimal size to a portable recording system.
  • Ultra-Lightweight Design: Weighs approximately 1.5g, making it well suited to handheld and body-worn recording equipment.
  • Approximately 10-Meter Transmission Range: TASCAM specifies an approximate wireless transmission distance of 10 meters, subject to environmental and reception conditions.
  • 2.4GHz Wireless Operation: Communicates using the standard 2.4GHz Bluetooth frequency band.
  • Bluetooth Class 2: Maximum transmitter output is specified at less than 2.5mW.
  • No Separate Accessory Battery: The adapter receives power from the compatible host recorder and does not require its own replaceable or rechargeable battery.
  • Purpose-Built TASCAM Accessory: Designed specifically for compatible TASCAM products rather than as a universal Bluetooth audio receiver.
  • Host-Dependent Functionality: Available remote-control, timecode, and application functions depend on the capabilities and firmware of the connected TASCAM product.
Specifications
Specification Details
Product Type Bluetooth adapter for compatible TASCAM products
Primary Function Wireless remote control and supported Bluetooth communication
Connection Dedicated Bluetooth device connector on compatible TASCAM products
Operating Frequency 2.4GHz band
Frequency Range 2402–2480MHz
Bluetooth Power Class Class 2
Maximum Transmitter Output Less than 2.5mW
Approximate Transmission Distance 10m (32.8 ft)
Remote Control Supported with compatible TASCAM products and applications
Mobile Device Connection Compatible smartphones and tablets
Computer Connection Bluetooth communication supported where provided by compatible host product/workflow
Portacapture Control Supported with compatible Portacapture products
Wireless Timecode Available with compatible host products and supported equipment/workflows
Bluetooth Audio Monitoring Not an AK-BT1 feature; use AK-BT2 with compatible host products where Bluetooth audio monitoring is supported
Power Source Supplied by compatible TASCAM host product
Separate Battery Required No
Dimensions (W × H × D) 22.3 × 14.9 × 5.7mm (0.88 × 0.59 × 0.22 in), including protrusions
Weight 1.5g (0.05 oz)
Operating Temperature 0–40°C (32–104°F)
Installation Direct connection to compatible TASCAM product
Manuals and Documents
  • Owner’s Manual - Current multilingual Revision C owner’s manual covering installation, wireless precautions, transmission characteristics, dimensions, weight, and operating requirements.
  • AK-BT1 Downloads - Current TASCAM documentation, Portacapture Control software links, and product resources for the AK-BT1.
  • TASCAM AK-BT1 Product Page - Official U.S. manufacturer product information, compatibility details, documentation, and support resources.