TASCAM DR-05XP

By 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.

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.