TASCAM AK-BT1
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.
Product Gallery
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.