Tascam Model 24 Multitrack Recorder

Before you start

The Tascam Model 24 works as a standalone multitrack recorder, so the core recording process runs locally on the unit and does not require a computer. For this task you need the Model 24 powered on, an SD card inserted in the SD card slot, microphones or line-level sources connected to available input channels, and headphones or monitor speakers connected for listening. Check that the SD card is formatted by the Model 24 if you plan to record or play back projects on the unit. The recorder uses its own project and song structure, so familiarise yourself with the SD card menu before relying on the card for a session.

Step-by-step instructions

Start with the input level controls turned down and the monitor or headphone level low. Connect a microphone to an XLR input or a keyboard, instrument or playback device to a suitable line input. If a channel has phantom power requirements for a condenser microphone, enable phantom power only for the channels that need it and only when the connected microphone is designed for it.

Select the source for each channel using its input or mode controls where applicable. Set the channel fader to the nominal position marked on the panel and raise the input gain or trim while sending a normal-level signal, watching the channel meter. Adjust the gain so loud passages stay below the clip point, then bring up the channel fader and monitor level to a comfortable listening volume.

Create or select a song on the SD card using the song management functions. The menu structure can differ slightly by firmware version, so confirm the on-screen labels on your unit. Arm the channels you want to record by pressing their record-arm controls. Press the record button and then play to begin recording; some versions may require a specific record and play sequence, so follow the transport indicators shown on the display.

When the take is finished, press stop. The recording is stored within the selected song on the SD card. You can make another take in the same song or create a new song for a separate section. Keep the SD card door closed during recording and avoid removing the card until the unit has finished writing data.

Check the output

Return the transport to the start of the song and play the recording while listening on headphones or monitor speakers. Check that every armed channel appears at the intended level and that the stereo balance matches the channel pan or balance settings. The Model 24 records at the project sample rate selected for the song, so confirm that the project settings meet the format required for your later editing or distribution.

If a channel was not armed, it will not be present as a separate recorded track even if you heard it while monitoring before recording. Noise, distortion or a missing track is easier to correct before recording another take, so make a short test recording when using new inputs or routing.

Common problems and next steps

A channel that records too quietly usually needs more input gain rather than more fader level, because the fader may affect the monitor mix but the recorded level also depends on the input gain setting. A channel that sounds clipped on playback was likely recorded too hot; lower the input gain and make another take instead of only reducing the fader afterwards.

If the card is not recognised, confirm it is inserted fully and that it is a compatible SD card formatted or initialised through the Model 24. If no audio is recorded on a channel, check that the correct input is selected for that channel, the source is actually sending signal, the channel is armed, and the track is being played from the correct song. Phantom-powered microphones also need the matching phantom power switch enabled.

For recording a live band, set up each input one at a time and use the channel meters rather than relying on the monitor balance alone. For a podcast or spoken recording, test the microphone distance and room noise before a long take. When the recording is complete, safely stop playback or recording before removing the SD card, then transfer the song files using the method supported by the current firmware and your computer.