TASCAM Portacapture X8

By Brian Long

Introduction

The TASCAM Portacapture X8 is a professional handheld multitrack recorder designed for field recording, music production, filmmaking, interviews, podcasting, sound design, and content creation. Its pair of detachable large-diaphragm condenser microphones provides high-quality stereo recording without requiring external microphones, while four additional XLR/TRS combo inputs make it possible to build more advanced multichannel recording setups.

Supporting 32-bit float WAV/BWF recording at up to 192kHz, the Portacapture X8 combines high-resolution audio performance with an intuitive color touchscreen interface. Application-style recording presets simplify configuration for common production tasks, while manual control remains available for experienced users. With up to six input channels, eight-track recording, USB audio interface functionality, optional Bluetooth remote control, and flexible battery or USB power, the Portacapture X8 can serve as anything from a self-contained handheld recorder to the center of a compact multichannel production rig.

Features, Specifications, and Manuals

Features
  • 32-Bit Float Recording: Capture high-resolution WAV/BWF audio using 32-bit float technology for exceptional dynamic-range flexibility and greater freedom when recording unpredictable sources.
  • Up to 192kHz Resolution: Supports WAV/BWF recording at sampling rates up to 192kHz for demanding music, field-recording, sound-design, and production applications.
  • Detachable Condenser Microphones: Supplied with two high-quality condenser microphones that connect directly to the recorder for self-contained stereo recording.
  • Large-Diaphragm Microphone Design: The included microphones use 14.6mm diaphragms to capture detailed stereo audio across a wide range of applications.
  • A-B and X-Y Stereo Configurations: The detachable microphones can be arranged for different stereo recording techniques to suit the source and recording environment.
  • Four XLR/TRS Combo Inputs: Inputs 3–6 accommodate balanced professional microphone and line-level sources, allowing the recorder to expand beyond its built-in stereo microphone pair.
  • Professional Phantom Power: XLR microphone inputs support phantom power for compatible professional condenser microphones.
  • Six Input Channels: Record using the supplied stereo microphones together with four external microphone or line sources.
  • Up to Eight Recording Tracks: Capture six individual input channels together with a stereo master mix for flexible multitrack production and post-production.
  • Color Touchscreen Interface: Large color touchscreen provides intuitive access to recording applications, mixer controls, settings, meters, and system functions.
  • Application-Style Recording Presets: Built-in recording apps provide optimized starting points for common production scenarios without preventing more detailed manual adjustment.
  • Manual Recording Mode: Provides direct control for users who want to configure recording parameters and signal processing themselves.
  • Music Recording: Multitrack capability and professional microphone inputs make the Portacapture X8 suitable for rehearsals, acoustic performances, concerts, songwriting, and location music recording.
  • Field Recording and Sound Design: High-resolution stereo microphones and 32-bit float recording make the X8 well suited to ambience, effects, nature, environmental, and location sound capture.
  • Podcast and Interview Recording: Multiple microphone inputs allow several speakers to be recorded to independent tracks for editing and mixing after the session.
  • Video Production: Compact multichannel recording provides an independent professional audio system for filmmaking, interviews, documentaries, and other video productions.
  • USB Audio Interface: USB connectivity allows the Portacapture X8 to function as a multichannel audio interface with compatible computers and mobile devices.
  • USB Type-C Connectivity: Modern USB-C connection supports computer integration, file transfer, audio interface operation, and compatible power configurations.
  • Optional Bluetooth Remote Control: Add the AK-BT1 TASCAM Bluetooth adapter to control supported recorder functions wirelessly from a smartphone or tablet.
  • TASCAM Portacapture Control: Compatible mobile application provides supported remote operation when the optional Bluetooth adapter is installed.
  • microSDXC Recording: Supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards with capacities up to 512GB.
  • WAV/BWF and MP3 Support: Provides high-resolution WAV/BWF recording as well as MP3 recording and playback for applications where smaller files are preferred.
  • Professional Signal Processing: Includes useful production tools for managing microphone sources and preparing audio during recording.
  • Dedicated Headphone Monitoring: Built-in headphone output provides direct monitoring during setup, recording, and playback.
  • Camera Connectivity: Dedicated camera-related connections help integrate the recorder into DSLR and mirrorless video-production rigs.
  • Flexible Power Options: Operates from four AA batteries or compatible external USB power for both mobile and extended recording sessions.
Specifications
Specification Details
Product Type Professional high-resolution handheld multitrack recorder
Recording Media microSD / microSDHC / microSDXC
microSD Capacity 64MB–2GB
microSDHC Capacity 4GB–32GB
microSDXC Capacity 48GB–512GB
WAV Format WAV / BWF
WAV Sampling Rates 44.1 / 48 / 96 / 192kHz
WAV Resolution 16-bit / 24-bit / 32-bit float
MP3 Sampling Rates 44.1 / 48kHz
MP3 Bit Rates 128 / 192 / 256 / 320kbps
Maximum Input Channels 6
Maximum Recording Tracks 8
Included Microphones 2 × detachable condenser microphones
Microphone Diaphragm Diameter 14.6mm
Stereo Mic Configurations A-B / X-Y
External Inputs 3–6 4 × balanced XLR/TRS combo jacks
External Input Modes Microphone / Line
Phantom Power Supported through XLR microphone inputs
Mic Input Impedance 2.2kΩ or greater
Mic Maximum Input Level +2dBu
Mic Minimum Input Level -75dBu
Line Input Impedance 9kΩ or greater
Line Nominal Input Level +4dBu
Line Maximum Input Level +24dBu
Line Minimum Input Level -53dBu
Headphone Output 3.5mm stereo mini jack
USB Connection USB Type-C
USB Functions File transfer / USB audio interface
Display Color touchscreen
Wireless Remote Control Optional Bluetooth adapter required
Power 4 × AA batteries or USB power
Manuals and Documents
  • Owner’s Manual - Complete TASCAM operating manual covering recording applications, 32-bit float operation, microphone configuration, multitrack recording, USB audio, system settings, and technical specifications.
  • TASCAM Portacapture X8 Product Page - Official U.S. manufacturer product information, firmware, software, manuals, compatibility information, and support resources.