TASCAM DR-05X

^# 23

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$67.00 to $83.06 Price Tier: Budget

4.0 (2)

3 Critic Reviews

All time low price

Newer option

Tascam DR-05 V2

$235.00

4.5 (34)

Find out who is using TASCAM DR-05X

3 wishlisted

18 saved

Page last updated Jun 09, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated June 9, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

5.0 (1)

$79.00

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4.0 (26)

$79.00

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4.4 (2573)

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5.0 (1)

$83.06 3 available Used

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3.0 (6)

$79.00

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4.5 (2)

$79.00

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4.5 (36)

$79.00

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4.6 (227)

$71.00

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£75.00

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Average Price: $77

Budget/Beginner

$149

$400+

Price Tier

In the Portable Recorders category, TASCAM DR-05X is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "TASCAM DR-05X". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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The TASCAM DR-05X is your all-in-one solution for capturing pristine audio, whether you're recording a podcast, live performance, or simply jotting down musical ideas on the go. This compact and versatile digital recorder is designed to fit comfortably in your hand, making it the perfect companion for musicians, journalists, and creators alike. With its dual omnidirectional condenser microphones, the DR-05X captures every nuance of your sound environment with exceptional clarity and detail.

Navigate with ease thanks to an intuitive one-touch user interface, allowing you to adjust levels, delete takes, and add markers with just a few taps. The DR-05X doesn't just stop at portable recording; it doubles as a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface compatible with both Mac and PC, making it ideal for home studio setups and live streaming.

The DR-05X supports high-resolution audio formats, offering WAV/BWF recordings up to 96kHz/24-bit for superior audio fidelity, and can handle MP3 formats for longer recording times. Its Auto Recording and Overwrite functions streamline your workflow, while dictation modes provide added functionality for voice recordings and transcriptions. With a robust design that offers up to 17.5 hours of battery life, this recorder ensures that you won't miss a beat, even on the longest recording sessions.

Key Features:

Dual omnidirectional condenser microphones for stereo recording
2-in/2-out USB audio interface for Mac and PC
Records in WAV/BWF (up to 96kHz/24-bit) and MP3 formats
Auto Recording and Overwrite modes for seamless operation
Up to 17.5 hours of battery life with 2 AA batteries
Supports microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards (up to 128GB)
Intuitive one-touch user interface with Quick Menu button

Product specs

Audio Interface	2 x 2 USB 2.0 Interface
A/D Resolution	24-bit/96kHz
Simultaneous Rec Tracks	2
Simultaneous Play Tracks	2
Built-in Mic(s)	Dual Condenser Mics, Omnidirectional/Stereo
Analog Inputs	1 x 1/8" TRS (mic)
Headphones	1 x 1/8" (headphones/line)
Built-in Speaker	Yes
Memory (removable)	microSD (3GB max), microSDHC (32GB max), microSDXC (128GB max)
File Format	WAV, MP3
Effects	6 x Reverbs
USB	1 x Type Micro-B
Power Supply	2 x AA batteries, USB bus power (cable sold separately)
Battery Life	17.5 hours (Alkaline), 15.5 hours (NiMH)
Stand Mountable	1/4" Tripod screw-hole
Height	5.55"
Width	2.4"
Depth	1.02"
Weight	0.25 lbs.

FAQs

What type of microphones does the TASCAM DR-05X have?: The TASCAM DR-05X features dual omnidirectional condenser microphones, providing stereo recording capabilities ideal for capturing detailed audio in various environments.
Can the TASCAM DR-05X be used as a USB audio interface?: Yes, the TASCAM DR-05X can function as a 2 x 2 USB audio interface, allowing you to record directly to your computer and use the device for live streaming or podcasting.
What file formats does the TASCAM DR-05X support for recording?: The TASCAM DR-05X supports recording in both WAV and MP3 formats, offering flexibility in choosing between high-quality uncompressed audio and space-saving compressed files.
How long does the battery last on the TASCAM DR-05X?: The TASCAM DR-05X offers up to 17.5 hours of battery life using alkaline batteries and up to 15.5 hours with NiMH rechargeable batteries, ensuring extended recording sessions without frequent battery changes.
Is the TASCAM DR-05X compatible with microSD cards?: Yes, the TASCAM DR-05X is compatible with microSD, microSDHC, and microSDXC cards, supporting capacities up to 128GB for extensive storage of recordings.
Does the TASCAM DR-05X have built-in effects?: The TASCAM DR-05X includes six reverb effects, allowing users to add depth and character to their recordings directly on the device.

Videos

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TASCAM Channel

TASCAM DR-05X - Stereo Handheld Digital Audio Recorder and USB Audio Interface

TASCAM Channel

Tascam DR-05X Quick Start Setup Guide for Content Creators 2021 | AUDIO TUTORIAL

Audio for Content Creators

Tascam DR-05X Audio Recorder - Review

Eraser Tech

Tascam DR-05X Digital Recorder // The Sound Professionals

Sound Professionals

Tascam DR-05X Internal Mics review (and portable audio recorders in general)

Audio for Content Creators

Tascam DR-05X Handheld Digital Recorder | Review

Guitar Interactive Magazine

Tascam DR-05X Real Audio Test

Slava Visuals

Tascam Dr-05x Review | Portable Recording Power!

The Pedal Guy

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptionally sensitive built-in microphones capture detailed sounds
Compact size, easily fits in pockets for impromptu recordings
Supports high-capacity memory cards, offering extensive recording time
Versatile recording formats and quality levels for various needs
Functions as both a standalone recorder and a USB interface
Compatible with PC, Mac, and iOS for broad usability
Features like high pass filters and limiter enhance recording quality
Capable of driving full-size pro headphones for monitoring
Quick boot-up time enables rapid start of recording
Receives firmware updates, ensuring sustained performance improvement

CONS

Built-in speaker quality is poor, not suitable for critical listening
Handling noise can be captured due to insufficient damping on mic mounts
Windshields may obscure LEDs and part of the display
Sharp casing around the USB port and fragile battery cover
Picks up radio interference when near certain electronic devices

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about TASCAM DR-05X.

Features and functionality

0 0

The TASCAM DR-05X offers more audio setting options, allowing users to reduce background noise effectively compared to typical phone/tablet mics.
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0 0

The DR-05X includes a micro-USB connector and can serve as a class-compliant audio interface, unlike the DR-05.
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0 0

The DR-05X supports timer recording, which is not available on the older DR-05 model.
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Users confirm the DR-05X works well as a USB mic without interference from laptops or tablets, as these devices emit less RF energy compared to cell phones.
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Use cases and applications

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Owners prefer the TASCAM DR-05X in professional settings to avoid interruptions from phone calls or alarms, ensuring continuous recording.
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0 0

The DR-05X performs effectively for field recording, such as capturing nature sounds, especially when equipped with an additional wind blocker for windy conditions.
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User experience

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Some users find the TASCAM DR-05X less convenient than phones, as it requires carrying an extra device and transferring audio manually.
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Owners mention RF interference issues with TASCAM DR-05X, notably from nearby cell phones, but interference diminishes significantly with distance, often disappearing at a foot or two away.
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Software and compatibility

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The DR-05X cannot run DR-05 firmware due to a redesigned digital board, making firmware updates model-specific.
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Comparisons

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The DR-05X supports larger SD cards up to 128GB, compared to the DR-05's 32GB limit, catering to users needing more storage.
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Some users prefer Zoom H1n over the DR-05X due to its ease of use and sufficient memory for recording despite the 32GB limit, which allows approximately 30 hours at 44kHz 32-bit.
Source

Build quality

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The DR-05X features a brighter, white backlit screen, enhancing visibility compared to the DR-05's display.
Source

Critic Reviews

Tascam DR-05x Review - Academic Transcription Services

weloty.com

The Tascam DR-05X showcases a wealth of features, making it an enticing option for musicians on a budget. While it improves on its predecessor with support for larger SD cards and handy functions like mono recording, it still suffers from significant issues, particularly persistent radio interference that hampers its usability. The bulky design may also deter those seeking a compact recorder. In short, it's a versatile tool, but the drawbacks—especially for voice recording—are hard to overlook. A decent choice for music recording, but not without its quirks.

neutral

Full Review

Tascam DR-05X Review: Quiet Enough for Nature? — Acoustic Nature

acousticnature.com

The Tascam DR-05X serves as a competent entry-level field recorder, excelling in affordability and ease of use, particularly for capturing sounds above 45dB. However, it struggles significantly with self-noise in quieter environments, which may deter serious nature recorders. The plastic build raises durability concerns, and the slow gain adjustments can be frustrating. On the plus side, its long battery life and intuitive menu system are commendable. Interference from nearby electronics is a noted issue, especially in urban settings, while the lack of wind protection is a glaring oversight. Ultimately, the DR-05X is a decent choice for beginners but falls short for more advanced users seeking pristine audio quality.

neutral

Full Review

Tascam DR-05X stereo handheld recorder review - Higher Hz

higherhz.com

The Tascam DR-05X shines as an affordable entry point into field recording, boasting user-friendly controls and solid performance. Its flexibility allows for microphone upgrades, enhancing audio quality over time. However, it falls short in durability with a plastic body that may not withstand rough handling, and self-noise becomes noticeable in quieter environments. While it’s a fantastic tool for beginners, those needing robust build quality and whisper-quiet recording might want to look elsewhere. Overall, it’s a great starting point for aspiring recordists, but with caveats.

positive

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4.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

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Mika Vainio

Composer, Music Producer

Pan Sonic

Verified via Twitter

A Tascam DR-05 recorder can be seen in this gear photo

Shingo Nakamura

Music Producer, DJ

Verified via Twitter

Shingo Nakamura has confirmed the acquisition of a TASCAM DR-05X portable recorder for his music production work. His enthusiasm for using the new gear was expressed in a tweet stating, "I bought a new recorder and want to use it as soon as possible." This statement was accompanied by a photo of the TASCAM DR-05X, directly linking the artist to this specific gear. The confirmation comes from a tweet by the artist himself, @_shingonakamura.