Answering the call of remote recording engineers, the TASCAM HD-P2 Portable High-Definition Stereo Audio Recorder
is the professional solution for challenging live and on-location
applications. Co-developed with Frontier Design Group, it records at up
to 192kHz/24-bit resolution to Compact Flash media, and its audio files
are instantly available to DAWs through the built-in high-speed
FireWire computer connection. Unlike consumer MP3 sketchpads, the
professional HD-P2 incorporates high-end features like a SMPTE timecode
input for synchronization to external devices while in record or
playback. The user interface is designed for fast and intuitive use
under stressful one-take-only situations, and its large, angled LCD is
perfect for any application from over-the-shoulder location recording
to concert recording and commercial use.
High-definition Recording, To Go
The
HD-P2 records in stereo from 44.1kHz to 192kHz, at 16- or 24-bit, to
affordable Compact Flash media. Not only is Compact Flash absolutely
silent, so no transport noise will show up on your recording, but the
recorded audio is written directly as Broadcast WAVE files for
immediate use in digital audio workstations. The unit even includes a
FireWire jack for the fastest possible transfer of files to your PC or
Mac computer.
The professional design of the HD-P2 extends to convenient details
that pro users will appreciate. The Retake button allows the user to
delete the last recording and set up to re-record with a single button
press. As audio is recorded, the file headers are continually re-saved
to protect your recording against accidental data loss. Files can be
named from the front panel interface or using a PS/2 keyboard, which
can also be used to control transport and setup features.
On
the input side, the unit has a pair of XLR mic inputs with phantom
power and analog peak limiting to curb distortion during unpredictable
live events. The input level control allows the user to change the
level without taking their eyes off the action. The HD-P2 also features
unbalanced RCA ins and outs as well as S/PDIF digital I/O. Monitoring
is available through a headphone out - again, with its own ergonomic
level control - using a built-in speaker. A built-in microphone is also
provided for interviews and educational use.
Built-in Synchronization - Because Being On Time Shouldn't Have To Be An Option
TASCAM's
HD-P2 comes standard with a full-featured timecode input - making it
the most affordable recorder with built-in timecode ever made. Incoming
LTC is connected to the locking XLR input for timestamping your
Broascast WAVE files from a central clock. Not only does the recorder
timestamp your recorded audio with sample accuracy, the HD-P2 chases
incoming timecode during playback for review or loading into an editor.
A video clock input allows frame edge resolve to a central blackburst
source or use as a lock-and-release timecode slave. There's also a
freewheel setting for use with unpredictable timecode sources.
For
maximum compatibility with the post production world, the HD-P2
supports pull-up and pull-down sample rates, even at high-resolution
settings. The video clock input accepts tri-level sync for
high-definition television production.
On Location, It's More Welcome Than The Craft Service Table
The
shoulder-slung design of the HD-P2 with its included locking strap
makes it a natural choice for film production recording. The Compact
Flash media is safely recessed and latched to prevent accidental
ejection, and audio can be recorded locked to timecode and video
reference for absolute lock. It runs for approximately 5.5 hours on
readily-available AA alkaline batteries, and weighs less than two
pounds with batteries installed. At the end of the day, recordings can
be instantly transferred to an editor through the FireWire jack or a CF
reader for use in a non-linear editor to sync dailies or to conform
dialog during post.
Precise recording quality for capturing a live performance
The
HD-P2's 192kHz/24-bit recording resolution is so precise, you can
almost hear what brand of cork was used for the conductor's baton. Its
Compact Flash transport doesn't make any noise, so you don't need to
worry about machine noise on the recording. The high-quality mic
preamps provide phantom power to handle sensitive condenser
microphones, and the analog limiter protects the recording against
sudden transient distortion. With the high capacity of today's Compact
Flash media, you might even be able to enjoy the performance without
constantly watching the time remaining meter.
You don't need a union card to figure it out
Although
the HD-P2 was designed for demanding film shoots and live concerts,
it's still simple and affordable enough for use in everyday classrooms,
churches and home studios. School band and orchestra leaders can use it
to record rehearsals for students, and then record concerts to sell for
fundraising. House-of-worship leaders can record their services for
duplication on CD, and its high-speed FireWire connection provides
instant access to the recording, so that CDs can be authored and
duplication can begin as the laity files out of the church.
With professional connectivity, built-in synchronization,
high-resolution recording and Compact Flash convenience, the HD-P2 is
the professional solution for serious recording in a reliable, portable
package.
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