TASCAM DR-05XP
Brian Long
Introduction
The TASCAM DR-05XP is a compact two-channel handheld audio recorder designed for music, interviews, field recording, rehearsals, video production, sound effects, lectures, and everyday content creation. Its built-in omnidirectional stereo condenser microphones provide a simple self-contained recording system that captures both the primary source and the surrounding ambience without requiring external microphones.
Supporting 32-bit float WAV/BWF recording at up to 96kHz, the DR-05XP provides greater flexibility when recording sources with unpredictable levels while retaining the straightforward controls of TASCAM’s popular DR-series handheld recorders. A 3.5mm external microphone/line input, USB-C connectivity, 2-in/2-out USB audio interface functionality, microSDXC support up to 512GB, and operation from just two AA batteries make the DR-05XP a practical portable recorder for musicians, creators, students, videographers, and field-recording applications.
Product Gallery
Features, Specifications, and Manuals
Features
- 32-Bit Float Recording: Record WAV/BWF audio using 32-bit float resolution for extensive dynamic-range flexibility when capturing sources with unpredictable levels.
- Up to 96kHz Recording: Supports WAV/BWF recording at 44.1, 48, or 96kHz in 16-bit, 24-bit, or 32-bit float resolution.
- Built-In Omnidirectional Stereo Microphones: Integrated electret condenser microphones provide convenient stereo recording while capturing natural ambience around the recorder.
- High-SPL Recording: Built-in microphones can handle sound pressure levels up to 125dB SPL, making the recorder suitable for loud performances and other high-level sources.
- Two-Channel Stereo Recording: Straightforward stereo architecture makes the DR-05XP ideal for portable music, interview, ambience, rehearsal, lecture, and general-purpose recording.
- WAV/BWF Support: Broadcast Wave Format compatibility provides a professional uncompressed recording option for editing and production workflows.
- MP3 Recording and Playback: Supports MP3 bit rates from 32 to 320kbps when compact file sizes are preferred.
- 3.5mm External Input: Stereo MIC/EXT IN connection accommodates compatible external microphones and line-level sources.
- Plug-In Power: The external microphone input can provide plug-in power for compatible compact microphones.
- Peak Reduction: Automatically reduces recording level when an excessively high input level is detected.
- Auto Level: Automatic level control can compensate when incoming audio is unusually quiet or loud.
- Limiter: Helps control excessive signal peaks during recording.
- Selectable Low-Cut Filter: 40, 80, 120, and 220Hz filter settings help reduce wind, handling noise, HVAC rumble, and other unwanted low-frequency sound.
- Two-Second Pre-Recording Buffer: Captures up to two seconds of audio from before recording is activated, helping preserve the beginning of unexpected sounds or performances.
- Automatic Recording: Can begin recording automatically when the incoming signal reaches a configured level.
- Overdub Recording: Mix playback with a new input signal and record the combination as a new file for songwriting, practice, and creative recording.
- Built-In Reverb: Integrated reverb effect can be used during recording and playback.
- Chromatic Tuner: Built-in tuner provides a convenient tool for musicians during practice and recording sessions.
- Variable-Speed Audition: Adjust playback from 50% to 200% of normal speed without changing pitch, useful for transcription, practice, and detailed review.
- Loop and Repeat Playback: IN/OUT loop and repeat functions provide useful tools for music practice, transcription, and reviewing recorded material.
- Dictation Playback Mode: Dedicated playback features make the recorder useful for interviews, meetings, transcription, and spoken-word material.
- Timer Recording: Recording can be configured to start and stop at specified times for scheduled capture.
- USB-C Connectivity: Modern USB Type-C connection supports file transfer, USB audio, bus power, and connection with compatible devices.
- 2-In/2-Out USB Audio Interface: Use the DR-05XP as a portable USB audio interface with compatible computers and mobile devices.
- Built-In Speaker: Integrated 0.3W mono speaker provides convenient reference playback without headphones.
- Headphone / Line Output: 3.5mm stereo output can feed headphones, cameras, mixers, powered speakers, and other compatible equipment.
- Tripod Mount: Integrated mounting thread allows the recorder to be attached to a tripod or compatible production accessory.
- Flexible Power Options: Operates from two AA alkaline or NiMH batteries, USB bus power, or the optional TASCAM PS-P520U AC adapter.
- Long Battery Operation: Provides approximately 14.5 hours of continuous 96kHz/32-bit-float recording using the built-in microphones and specified alkaline batteries under TASCAM test conditions.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Portable 2-channel stereo handheld recorder and USB audio interface |
| Recording Media | microSD / microSDHC / microSDXC |
| Maximum Media Capacity | 512GB |
| Recording / Playback Formats | WAV/BWF and MP3 |
| WAV Sampling Rates | 44.1 / 48 / 96kHz |
| WAV Resolution | 16-bit / 24-bit / 32-bit float |
| MP3 Sampling Rates | 44.1 / 48kHz |
| MP3 Bit Rates | 32 / 64 / 96 / 128 / 192 / 256 / 320kbps |
| Input Channels | 2 (stereo) |
| Recording Tracks | 2 (stereo) |
| Built-In Microphones | Omnidirectional electret condenser stereo microphones |
| Built-In Mic Maximum SPL | 125dB SPL |
| Stereo Microphone Configuration | Fixed A-B |
| MIC / EXT Input | 3.5mm stereo mini jack |
| Plug-In Power | Supported |
| Input Impedance | ≥18kΩ with plug-in power off; ≥2kΩ with plug-in power on |
| Nominal External Input Level | -20dBV |
| Maximum External Input Level | -4dBV |
| Headphone / Line Output | 3.5mm stereo mini jack |
| Output Impedance | 12Ω |
| Nominal Line Output Level | -14dBV into 10kΩ |
| Maximum Line Output Level | +2dBV into 10kΩ |
| Maximum Headphone Output | 20mW + 20mW into 32Ω |
| Recommended Headphone Impedance | 16–250Ω |
| Built-In Speaker | 0.3W mono |
| USB Connection | USB Type-C |
| USB Mass Storage | USB 2.0 High Speed |
| USB Audio | USB 1.1 Full Speed Audio Class |
| USB Audio Sampling Rates | 44.1 / 48kHz |
| USB Audio Resolution | 24-bit |
| USB Audio Channels | 2-in / 2-out |
| Frequency Response at 44.1kHz | 20Hz–20kHz, +0/-1dB |
| Frequency Response at 48kHz | 20Hz–22kHz, +0/-1dB |
| Frequency Response at 96kHz | 20Hz–40kHz, +0/-1.5dB |
| THD+N | 0.01% or less |
| Low-Cut Filter | 40 / 80 / 120 / 220Hz |
| Pre-Recording Buffer | 2 seconds |
| Variable-Speed Playback | 50–200% |
| Power | 2 × AA alkaline or NiMH batteries; USB bus power; optional PS-P520U AC adapter |
| Maximum Power Consumption | 1.7W |
| Maximum Current Draw | 0.5A |
| 96kHz / 32-Bit Float Battery Life — Alkaline | Approx. 14.5 hours using built-in microphones |
| 96kHz / 32-Bit Float Battery Life — NiMH | Approx. 11.5 hours using built-in microphones |
| Dimensions (W × H × D) | 61 × 142 × 27mm (2.39 × 5.61 × 1.07 in) |
| Weight Without Batteries | 126g (4.4 oz) |
| Weight With Batteries | 174g (6.1 oz) |
| Operating Temperature | 0–40°C (32–104°F) |
Manuals and Documents
- Owner’s Manual - Complete TASCAM operating instructions covering 32-bit float recording, built-in and external microphones, recording functions, USB audio, playback tools, system configuration, and technical specifications.
- DR-05XP Downloads - Current TASCAM manuals, firmware, drivers, tested storage media, operating-system compatibility information, and product images.
- TASCAM DR-05XP Product Page - Official U.S. manufacturer product information and support resources.