The TASCAM DA-38 Multitrack DTRS Recorder was introduced in 1997 as part of TASCAM’s modular digital multitrack (MDM) range, designed to bring high-quality digital recording into the personal and project studio environment. Built around the Hi-8mm tape format, the TASCAM DA-38 Multitrack DAT Recorder offered an 8-track recording system with extended recording times of up to 1 hour and 48 minutes on standard 120-minute Hi-8 videocassettes, and up to 116 minutes using dedicated audio cassettes. This format provided a practical alternative to other digital systems by allowing extended recording sessions without restrictive time limits, making it suitable for live performances and complex compositions.
The TASCAM DA-38 Multitrack DTRS Recorder was engineered to deliver high sonic performance, featuring 18-bit, 64-times oversampling Delta-Sigma A/D converters and 20-bit, 8-times oversampling Delta-Sigma D/A converters. It provided a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz and a dynamic range exceeding 92dB, aligning it with professional digital recording standards of the time. The unit supported both 44.1kHz and 48kHz sampling rates, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of digital equipment and eliminating the need for sample rate conversion. Full compatibility with TASCAM DA-88 systems allowed seamless tape interchange and the ability to link up to 16 machines, enabling systems of up to 128 tracks for scalable studio expansion.
Operationally, the TASCAM DA-38 Multitrack DTRS Recorder was designed with musicians in mind, offering an intuitive front panel interface with SHIFT and MENU functions for rapid configuration. Features such as Digital Track Copy allowed composite editing by combining multiple takes into a single performance, while the built-in electronic patchbay enabled flexible routing of inputs to any track directly from the front panel without the need for external patching. Track Advance and Delay functions provided timing adjustments from -200 to 7200 samples, allowing precise control over musical feel. A built-in test tone generator referenced to A-440 facilitated calibration and tuning, while MIDI integration via the optional MMC-38 interface allowed full synchronisation with sequencers using SMPTE or MIDI Timecode.
The transport system of the TASCAM DA-38 Multitrack DTRS Recorder was built for reliability, using direct-drive brushless motors and a 4-head write-after-read system to improve data integrity and dropout protection. The Hi-8mm format incorporated Auto Track Finding technology, embedding timing information within the tape to ensure accurate tracking and interchangeability without reliance on analogue control tracks. Editing capabilities were enhanced through variable digital crossfade times between 10ms and 90ms, enabling seamless punch in and out operations under a range of recording conditions. Additional transport features included shuttle control from one-quarter to eight times playback speed and independent pre-roll settings for locate and punch functions.
The TASCAM DA-38 Multitrack DTRS Recorder also supported a range of optional accessories and interfaces, including the RC-808 and RC-848 remote controllers for extended transport and system control, and digital interface options such as the IF-88AE for AES/EBU and S/PDIF connectivity, and the IF-88SD for integration with DASH systems. These options expanded the DA-38’s role within both standalone and integrated digital recording environments.
The TASCAM DA-38 Multitrack DDTRSAT Recorder combined extended recording capability, digital precision, and modular scalability, making it a key system for project studios transitioning into digital multitrack recording during the late 1990s
Features
- 8 track modular digital multitrack recording system
- Hi 8mm tape format with extended recording time up to 116 minutes
- Compatible with TASCAM DA-88 systems and expandable up to 128 tracks
- 18 bit A D and 20 bit D A converters with Delta Sigma design
- Digital track copy for composite editing
- Electronic patchbay for flexible input routing
- Track advance and delay from minus 200 to 7200 samples
- Built in test tone oscillator referenced to A 440
- MIDI synchronisation via optional MMC 38 interface
- Auto Track Finding system for accurate tape tracking
- Variable digital crossfade for seamless punch in and out
- Direct drive brushless transport motors for reliability
- Front panel control of all major functions
- Optional remote controllers and digital interface expansion
