Tascam Model 24
In an audio mixing landscape that seems to be pushing the entire industry towards a digital future, it's easy to assume that all of the interesting development is built for those who want to mix digitally. However, a few manufacturers understand the merits of analog-based consoles and are continuing to make use of them, while at the same time integrating technology that improves their utility and capability. Tascam, one such manufacturer, is doing this with the model 24 and its siblings, the Model 16 and Model 12. Effectively, Tascam has taken small-format analog mixers and brought in digital effects and converter technology, allowing these mixers to be used in a variety of ways.
What we do know
While we wait for our review unit to arrive for evaluation, here's what we do know: The Model 24 is a 22-input mixer with 16 phantom power microphone preamps (the Model 16 and Model 12 have 14 inputs and 10 inputs, respectively) that also happens to be a 24-channel digital multi-track recorder and audio interface. Each channel 1-12 makes use of a Tascam Ultra-HDDA Mic Pre-amp, three-band EQ (with sweepable-mid), low cut filter, single knob compressor, and 100mm long-throw faders. Channels 13-20 are mono/stereo channels, with channels 21/22 comprised of a stereo input that supports RCA, 1/8-inch TRS, as well as Bluetooth connections. Channels 1-20 support direct input, with channels 1 and 2 also supporting instrument inputs for direct use with guitars and other instruments.
Effects are provided by an onboard digital effects unit with 16 available pre-set effects programs....
The unit boasts a main stereo output along with two monitor buses, a stereo subgroup (routable to mains or for use as a stereo aux), an effects bus, as well as a control room and HP outputs. Outputs are connected via a combination of balanced connectors with XLR being used for the main outputs. Effects are provided by an onboard digital effects unit with 16 available pre-set effects programs, and are routable to both of the monitor outputs, as well as to the mains. Outputs are also supported by a seven-band graphical EQ.
Potential uses
As a mixer, the model 24 looks to be a very capable small-format desk that could be well suited for a small sanctuary, playing out with a small outreach group, or supporting many of the seminars and conferences that come with ministerial work. However, with the addition of its digital converters and multi-track capability, the utility of this desk increases substantially.
... with the addition of its digital converters and multi-track capability, the utility of this desk increases substantially.
Tascam claims that the unit is capable of capturing 24 channels of audio (48kHz/24bit audio in .WAV format) sourced from its 22 inputs and its main L/R output. This capture can be saved to an onboard SD, SDHX, or SDXC card. Alternatively, using its built-in USB interface, the console is also able to send that audio directly to your favorite DAW, acting as a digital interface for your studio. The Model 24 also has support for the use of a foot switch to control playback, as well as punch-in/punch-out controls. And as you might expect, the desk is able to play back audio from either an onboard storage card or from your DAW. Welcome to the world of self-contained virtual soundcheck while using a small footprint analog console. Pretty nifty.
Each input of the mixer allows its source to be selected from its analog input, the USB input, or the onboard SD card. This makes for an interesting capability that would allow you to mix a session using live inputs as well as pre-recorded material.
Each input of the mixer allows its source to be selected from its analog input, the USB input, or the onboard SD card. This makes for an interesting capability that would allow you to mix a session using live inputs as well as pre-recorded material. For example, you could use backing tracks and pre-recorded click during an event to fill in for missing musicians or filling out the musical parts. Also, while mixing that live performance you could be tracking the analog inputs for later use, to include the mix itself to use as a reference.
Used as the heart of a small studio, this mixer would allow for the use of a fully featured DAW for session control while using the console for analog summing with onboard effects and tone shaping. There are any number of ways that this system could be used for church production or studio-based content creation. Because of its integration between analog and digital capabilities, the Model 24 could be a great option for churches looking for a small-format solution to bridge the gap between live production and studio work.
