Tascam | DR-44WL | Handheld Portable Audio Recorder

Allowing you to record 4 tracks of audio simultaneously while providing Wi-Fi enabled transport control and file sharing, the DR-44WL Portable Audio Recorder with Wi-Fi from Tascam features a built-in XY stereo microphone and dual combo XLR inputs, and is capable of tracking in up to 24-bit/96 kHz resolution. Thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi, which requires no external network, you can control all transport functions via a free iOS and Android app. Additionally, you can use the built-in Wi-Fi to stream playback to your mobile device, as well as transfer files directly to your smart device or computer, for quick upload to social media.

The recorder features Dual-Level recording, which records duplicate tracks at a lower volume, to create a lower-level safety track. It also supports Dual-Format recording, which tracks simultaneously as WAV and MP3 files, so you have access to smaller file sizes for sharing while maintaining the higher-quality WAV as a master track. The DR-44WL records to SD cards, but includes a microSD card adapter for additional recording options. Also included are a windscreen, a mic grip, a shoe mount adapter, a 4GB microSD card, an AC adapter, 4 AA batteries, a USB cable, and a carrying case.

High-Quality Condenser Microphones

A pair of studio-quality condenser microphones top the DR-44WL, arranged in a true XY pattern for detailed imaging and phase coherence. The mic capsules are built to withstand up to 132 dB SPL – as loud as a jet airplane – without distorting. Record concerts and rehearsals with the confidence that your recording won’t be distorted.
In addition to the great-sounding new capsules, a shockmounting system has been developed for lower handling noise and rumble. The capsules are suspended in a rubber mount that avoids low frequency noises when handheld, mounted on a camera, or used on a tripod

Dual-Level Recording Feature Helps Prevent Overload

If levels get so high that your track is distorted, that recording can’t be saved with any kind of mastering. The DR-44WL includes a limiter to keep levels under control, but an even more effective system is the Dual-Level Recording feature. Dual-Level Recording is a function that solves this problem by simultaneously recording two stereo files at different levels. If your recording is distorted, you have a lower level “safety track” that won’t be distorted. Note, when the Dual-Level recording function is enabled, a maximum of two stereo tracks can be recorded simultaneously

XLR Combo Jacks

The XLR/TRS external input jacks accept either microphone or line level sources. Balanced or unbalanced signals can be plugged in, at either +4 or -10 levels, using the locking XLR connector or the 1/4″ jack. The DR-44WL supplies 48V Phantom Power for condenser microphones that require it. Both the internal mics and external inputs are used during 4-channel recording, for live recording

Microphone Preamp and A/D Conversion

A programmable gain amplifier (PGA) is used to adjust the level of the audio inputs. In many devices, the audio codec level is adjusted to control levels. In the DR-44WL, the mic gain circuit is independent from the A/D converter for low noise performance as well as programmable gain (manual, automatic, or controlled over Wi-Fi.)
The CIRRUS LOGIC CS42L52 is used in the DR-44WL. The A/D – D/A chip features both great audio performance and low power use for longer battery life. The built-in mics and the external inputs both pass through this low-noise audio input circuit

4-Track Recording Mode

The DR-44WL can record both the internal microphones and the external inputs simultaneously for a 4-track recording. Use the microphones to capture the sound in the room while recording a board mix from the PA mixer. Other 4-channel applications include drum set recording, surround recording, and film production

Remote Wi-Fi Control

The DR-44WL creates its own Wi-Fi network with your iOS or Android phone, and a free app called DR Control controls remote operation without touching the unit. The app allows recording to be started and stopped, and can be used to check and adjust input levels. Any of the recording controls on the DR-44WL can be controlled over Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi transmission range is about 65 feet (20m) – well beyond the reach of infrared remotes – so the recorder can be placed wherever the recording sounds best. Audio from the DR-44WL can also be streamed over Wi-Fi to check the recording. Plug headphones into your smartphone and listen to a near-realtime feed from the recorder

Simple Wi-Fi Connections Without a Router

The DR-44WL connects with smartphones and other Wi-Fi devices directly. There is no need for a Wi-Fi router network or other external equipment. Wi-Fi connections can be established simply by inputting the information shown in the app. Connection status can be checked with an LED on the unit as well as the app screen. Even if the Wi-Fi connection is interrupted, recording will not stop

Remote Control Using the Free DR Control App

The free DR Control app allows your iOS or Android phone to control the recorder from anywhere in the room. Start recording on-stage or from the back of the room, while placing the DR-44WL wherever the microphones sound best. Remote start also eliminates handling noise from pressing a button or moving the recorder.
In addition to recording, playback and other transport controls, DR Control can adjust the input levels, switch on the low-cut filter, change the mix, and more. A power-conservation mode is included to minimize battery consumption from Wi-Fi use

Wireless Streaming to Monitor the Recorder

With DR Control, audio from the DR-44WL can be broadcast via Wi-Fi to your smartphone for streaming playback. Even when the DR-44WL is in a place that is out of reach, this capability allows you to check audio from the headphone jack. Ensure that you’re getting the sound you want without leaving your seat

Transfer Recordings to Your Smartphone or PC

In addition to remote control, the DR-44WL allows you to wirelessly transfer recordings to your smartphone or laptop. Upload recordings to SoundCloud through the app, then publish that link to Facebook, Twitter, and other social media. Or simply email the file to friends

Dual-Format Recording Function

Dual-Format Recording simultaneously records WAV and MP3 files to the card. This allows you to have instant access to the MP3 file for online sharing, while retaining the uncompressed WAV file master recording for later use

Wirelessly Transfer Files to Your Computer

A free app for Mac and Windows called File Transfer allows you to move selected recordings from the DR-44WL to your computer over Wi-Fi

Peak Reduction and Limiter

These functions automatically adjust the recording level in response to the input level. The peak reduction function automatically lowers the level if an input overload is detected, optimizing the recorded sound. The limiter reduces excessive input levels without changing the input level setting

Automatic Track Creation by Time

The DR-44WL can automatically create a new file and continue recording without interruption when a set amount of time has elapsed. This function can be used when recording for long periods of time. For example, when set to 5 minutes, a new file will be created automatically every 5 minutes when recording. These files can be combined later in your audio editing software for seamless playback. Manual file increment is also possible by pressing the Record button during recording

Automatic Track Creation by Level

The DR-44WL can create a new track every time a level threshold is passed. This can split a concert recording into tracks, and can be useful when digitizing another recording like a cassette, DAT, or vinyl record

Automatic Mark Function

Marks can be added to files when high levels or peaks are detected. When set to a level, marks can be added automatically at the points when songs end. When set to peak detection and used together with the peak reduction function, these marks will identify the points where peaks were detected – making it easy when using audio editing software on a computer. You can also add markers manually while recording

File Divide

This function can divide files where marks are added. When used together with the automatic marking function, long recordings can automatically be divided into files with individual songs. Files can also be divided manually

MTR Mode

MTR mode allows separate multitrack recording to four tracks. Record using the built-in mics to capture song ideas anywhere. Then plug into the external inputs to add amp simulator and keyboard overdubs. Use the mic inputs with +48V phantom power to bring in condenser mics for vocal recording. When you’re finished recording your song, use the built-in mixer and reverb to mix, then record your mix as a stereo file