TASCAM DR-100MKIII Digital Recorder

Used in a variety of combinations, depending upon the selected function, the DR-100mkIII features dual AKM AK4558 converters with VELVET SOUND architecture, providing both high sound quality and low power consumption, achieving a signal-to-noise ratio of 102dB.

The dual ADC mode uses two AK4558 AD converters in parallel operation. Signal-to-noise ratio is maximized and audio fidelity is improved, delivering a 109dB S/N ratio as compared to the (already excellent) 102dB S/N ratio achieved when recording in standard mode.
Note: As the S/N ratio when recording exceeds the S/N ratio of the entire circuit, data recorded in dual ADC mode will be limited to a 102dB S/N ratio when played back on the DR-100mkIII. This does not affect the S/N ratio of the actual file, which is maintained at 109dB S/N

The XLR/TRS inputs, used to connect external mics, deliver the highest sound quality and lowest noise of any TASCAM Handheld Digital Recorder. HDDA (High Definition Discrete Architecture) mic preamps are also included to maintain a pristine audio signal path throughout.

A newly designed microphone housing for the directional mics is based on exhaustive research of previous TASCAM hand held recorders and achieves the perfect marriage of protection and performance. Similarly, the omnidirectional stereo microphone setup features sound pressure level tolerance of 125 dB SPL – able to withstand virtually any audio environment.

The TASCAM DR-100mkIII supports high definition recording at both 96kHz/24-bit and 192kHz/24-bit, ensuring that remote recordings achieve the same sonic fidelity as their studio-born counterparts.

An integrated shock mount structure for the directional stereo microphone suppresses unwanted vibration and handling noise.

With a dual battery structure that allows the built-in high-capacity lithium-ion battery to be used with in concert with AA batteries, operation is possible for extended periods of time ensuring that the DR-100mkIII is ready to go when you are. Additionally, the DR-100mkIII can be rapidly charged by connecting an AC adapter and even support USB Bus power from an external battery pack commonly used to charge mobile phones and tablets.

TASCAM’s exclusive Dual Level Recording function simultaneously records a secondary backup file at a lower gain level than the primary recording. This safety file, recorded at a 12db lower level protects your recording session from unexpected volume spikes and accidental overload.

Locking XLR/TRS combo jacks made by Amphenol ensure high reliability in the field and protect against unwanted connectivity issues.

Marrying light weight with long-term reliability, the TASCAM DR-100mkIII’s tough aluminum body ensures many years of trouble-free use.

The precision of the built-in clock is crucial when digital recordings made on what device are to be used in conjunction with materials recorded on other devices, such as when combining digital audio and video assets. To ensure stability, the DR-100mkIII utilizes the same Temperature-Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) used in professional studio master recorders. Moreover, the TCXO is not affected by the temperature of the environment, critical for a portable device which must maintain its precision in support of high-quality recording.

When working on location, decisions must be made quickly and efficiently, and an intuitive and consistent User Interface is critical. By gathering feedback from users of the original DR-100 and the MKII, we have been able to add a variety of usability enhancements designed to streamline workflow and help audio professionals achieve success quickly and efficiently.

The user interface has been designed to maximize visual confirmation, and includes a large LCD screen (double the size of the screen on the DR-100mkII), dedicated status LEDs for features such as record levels and status and easy-to-read legends on the casework.

Dedicated hardware controls have been implemented for the most commonly accessed features to enable quick, positive operation in the field.

Dual format recording function allows simultaneous recording of both uncompressed WAV(BWF) and MP3 files. This provides the user with instant access to both the original, full resolution master file and a compressed MP3 file (with a much smaller file size) for easy emailing or posting to social media sites.

XRI (eXtended Recording Information) function stores keeps track of all recording settings as part of the file. This powerful features allows the user to easily double-check the details of the original recording for logging or replication of recording conditions at a later date. This information includes date and time of recording, input sources selection and levels, ADC mode on/off status and more. XRI information is stored as part of the BWF data block.