TASCAM DR-40XP

By Brian Long

Introduction

The TASCAM DR-40XP is a professional portable four-track audio recorder designed for musicians, field recording, interviews, filmmaking, rehearsals, live performances, sound effects, and content production. Its built-in unidirectional stereo condenser microphones can be configured for either A-B or X-Y stereo recording, while two XLR/TRS combo inputs with TASCAM HDDA microphone preamps accommodate professional microphones, mixers, and line-level sources.

With 32-bit float WAV/BWF recording at up to 96kHz, the DR-40XP provides the dynamic-range flexibility needed for sources with unpredictable levels while retaining straightforward handheld operation. Four-track recording allows the built-in stereo microphones and two external inputs to be captured simultaneously, and USB-C connectivity adds 2-in/2-out audio interface operation with compatible computers and iOS devices. Support for microSDXC cards up to 512GB, long battery operation, phantom power, and professional production tools make the DR-40XP a versatile portable recorder for both everyday and demanding 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 and easier capture of 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.
  • Four-Track Recording: Capture four tracks simultaneously using the built-in stereo microphones together with the two external XLR/TRS inputs.
  • Adjustable Stereo Condenser Microphones: Built-in unidirectional condenser microphones can be repositioned for either A-B or X-Y stereo recording.
  • A-B Stereo Configuration: Provides a wider stereo image that is useful for ambience, ensembles, live performances, and environmental recording.
  • X-Y Stereo Configuration: Provides a focused stereo image with reduced phase differences, making it useful for music, interviews, and sources where mono compatibility is important.
  • High-SPL Microphones: Built-in microphones can handle sound-pressure levels up to 125dB SPL for recording loud instruments, rehearsals, performances, and other high-level sources.
  • Dual XLR/TRS Combo Inputs: Two professional balanced inputs accommodate external microphones or line-level equipment.
  • TASCAM HDDA Mic Preamps: High-quality microphone preamplifiers provide low-noise amplification with an Equivalent Input Noise rating of -126dBu or lower.
  • 24V / 48V Phantom Power: XLR inputs provide selectable phantom power for compatible professional condenser microphones.
  • Professional +24dBu Line Inputs: External inputs accept line-level signals up to +24dBu for direct connection to professional mixers and other audio equipment.
  • 112dB Dynamic Range: Improved analog performance provides a dynamic range of 112dB or greater through the external microphone inputs.
  • MP3 Recording and Playback: Supports MP3 recording at bit rates from 32 to 320kbps for applications where compact file sizes are preferred.
  • Mid-Side Decoder: Built-in MS decoding supports compatible mid-side microphone configurations during recording or playback.
  • Dual Recording Mode: Create a second recording at a reduced level to help protect against unexpected overloads when using compatible recording modes.
  • Overdub Recording: Layer new material with previously recorded audio for songwriting, rehearsal, and music-production applications.
  • Pre-Recording: Captures audio from immediately before the record button is pressed, helping prevent the beginning of an unexpected performance or event from being missed.
  • Auto Recording: Recording can start automatically in response to the incoming audio level for unattended or event-driven recording applications.
  • Peak Reduction: Helps establish practical input levels by responding to excessive signal peaks.
  • Low-Cut Filter: Reduces unwanted low-frequency noise such as handling noise, HVAC rumble, and wind-related energy.
  • Built-In Effects: Integrated processing provides useful tools for music recording and practice.
  • Chromatic Tuner: Built-in tuner provides a convenient tool for musicians during rehearsal and recording sessions.
  • Variable-Speed Playback: Adjust playback speed without significantly changing pitch for transcription, music practice, language study, and detailed review.
  • USB-C Connectivity: Modern USB-C connection provides file transfer, bus power, and audio-interface functionality.
  • 2-In/2-Out USB Audio Interface: Functions as a USB audio interface with compatible Mac, Windows, and iOS devices.
  • Built-In Speaker: Integrated mono speaker provides convenient reference playback without requiring headphones or external monitors.
  • Headphone / Line Output: 3.5mm stereo connection supports headphones or connection to cameras, mixers, and other audio equipment.
  • Tripod Mount: Integrated 1/4-inch mounting point simplifies attachment to tripods and compatible production accessories.
  • Flexible Power Options: Operates from three AA alkaline, NiMH, or lithium batteries, USB bus power, or the optional TASCAM PS-P520U AC adapter.
  • Long Battery Operation: Provides up to approximately 25.5 hours of 32-bit float stereo recording with the built-in microphones when using specified lithium batteries under TASCAM test conditions.
Specifications
Specification Details
Product Type Portable four-track digital audio 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 4 (2 stereo pairs)
Maximum Recording Tracks 4
Built-In Microphones Unidirectional stereo condenser microphones
Stereo Microphone Configurations A-B / X-Y
Built-In Mic Maximum SPL 125dB SPL
External Inputs 2 × balanced XLR/TRS combo jacks
External Input Modes Microphone / Microphone + Phantom / Line
Mic Maximum Input Level +5dBu
Mic Minimum Input Level -84dBu
Mic Input Impedance 2.4kΩ or greater
Phantom Power 24V / 48V
Line Maximum Input Level +24dBu
Line Nominal Input Level +4dBu
Line Input Impedance 10kΩ or greater
Headphone / Line Output 3.5mm stereo mini jack
Maximum Line Output Level 0dBV
Nominal Line Output Level -20dBV
Maximum Headphone Output 20mW + 20mW into 32Ω
Recommended Headphone Impedance 16–600Ω
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
Equivalent Input Noise (EIN) -126dBu or lower
Dynamic Range 112dB or greater
Total Harmonic Distortion 0.008% or less
Frequency Response at 44.1kHz 20Hz–20kHz, +0/-1dB
Frequency Response at 48kHz 20Hz–22kHz, +0/-1dB
Frequency Response at 96kHz 20Hz–40kHz, +0/-1dB
Power 3 × AA alkaline, NiMH, or lithium batteries; USB bus power; optional PS-P520U AC adapter
Maximum Power Consumption 1.7W
Maximum Current Draw 0.34A
32-Bit Float Battery Life — Alkaline Approx. 16.5 hours using built-in microphones
32-Bit Float Battery Life — NiMH Approx. 16 hours using built-in microphones
32-Bit Float Battery Life — Lithium Approx. 25.5 hours using built-in microphones
Dimensions — Mics Closed (W × H × D) 70 × 155 × 35mm (2.76 × 6.10 × 1.38 in)
Dimensions — Mics Open (W × H × D) 90 × 155 × 35mm (3.54 × 6.10 × 1.38 in)
Weight Without Batteries 213g (7.5 oz)
Weight With Batteries 282g (9.9 oz)
Operating Temperature 0–40°C (32–104°F)
Manuals and Documents
  • Owner’s Manual - Complete TASCAM operating instructions covering 32-bit float recording, four-track operation, microphones, external inputs, USB audio, playback functions, system configuration, and technical specifications.
  • Tested Storage Media - TASCAM’s tested microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC media list for the DR-40XP.
  • DR-40XP Downloads - Current manuals, tested storage media, operating-system compatibility, drivers, and product images.
  • TASCAM DR-40XP Product Page - Official U.S. manufacturer product information and support resources.