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Description

In the ever-evolving world of field audio recording, the Tascam DR680 8-track Portable Digital Field Audio Recorder stands out as a formidable ally for audio professionals and enthusiasts alike. This versatile tool is not just about capturing sound; it's about capturing experiences, whether you're working on intricate soundscapes for a documentary or recording live performances at a festival. With its eight channels of simultaneous recording, the DR680 ensures you never miss a note or a nuance, providing flexibility in a portable package.

Equipped with six analog inputs featuring microphone preamps—four XLR/TRS combo and two TRS only—the DR680 caters to a wide range of recording needs. Each channel is enhanced with its own limiter and highpass filter, offering superior control over your audio landscape. For digital enthusiasts, two channels of S/PDIF are available, all recorded at up to 96kHz/24-bit quality, ensuring pristine sound on affordable SD or SDHC cards.

The DR680 is designed with convenience in mind, featuring level-dependent auto-recording and pre-recording functions for seamless operation. A backlit LCD display and built-in speaker further simplify field operations. For those who require even more channels, the cascade function allows two units to work in harmony, expanding your setup to 14 simultaneous tracks. Compact yet powerful, the Tascam DR680 is your go-to choice for dynamic, high-quality recordings on the move.

Key Features:

  • 8-track portable recording
  • Records to SD/SDHC card media
  • 96kHz/24-bit Broadcast WAV file resolution for 8 channels
  • Stereo 192kHz/24-bit recording mode
  • Cascade function for up to 14 tracks when using two units
  • Level-dependent auto-recording and pre-recording features
  • 128x64 backlit LCD display
  • Powered by 8 AA batteries or PS-1225L adapter
  • 6 mic pres with 60dB of gain and phantom power
  • S/PDIF digital in and out
  • Built-in speaker and 1/4" headphone output

Product specs

Brand TASCAM
Model DR-680 8-Track Portable Audio Recorder
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Portable Recorders

FAQs

How many tracks can the Tascam DR680 record simultaneously?

The Tascam DR680 can record up to 8 tracks simultaneously, making it ideal for capturing complex audio setups in field recording situations.

What are the input options on the Tascam DR680?

The Tascam DR680 features 6 mic/line inputs and digital input channels, providing versatility for various recording applications.

Is the Tascam DR680 suitable for high-resolution audio recording?

Yes, the Tascam DR680 supports recording at up to 96kHz/24-bit resolution, ensuring high-quality audio capture for professional projects.

Can the Tascam DR680 be used for location sound recording?

Absolutely, the Tascam DR680 is designed as a portable field audio recorder, making it well-suited for location sound recording in film, television, and live events.

Does the Tascam DR680 offer any onboard mixing features?

While the Tascam DR680 primarily focuses on recording, it does provide basic onboard mixing capabilities to adjust levels during recording sessions.

Black Raven Films

Black Raven Films

Tascam DR 680 Field Recorder Review and How I Power It

Video thumbnail for Tascam DR 680 Field Recorder Review and How I Power It by Black Raven Films

Tascam DR 680 Field Recorder Review and How I Power It

Black Raven Films

Black Raven Films

Video thumbnail for Tascam DR-680 by AudioTechnology Magazine

Tascam DR-680

AudioTechnology Magazine

AudioTechnology Magazine

Video thumbnail for Tascam DR-680 8 Track Audio Recorder For DSLR Dual System Sound by Steve Oakley

Tascam DR-680 8 Track Audio Recorder For DSLR Dual System Sound

Steve Oakley

Steve Oakley

Video thumbnail for TASCAM DR-680 8-Track Portable Recorder by HarmonyCentral

TASCAM DR-680 8-Track Portable Recorder

HarmonyCentral

HarmonyCentral

Video thumbnail for Tascam DR-680 Winter NAMM 2010 Demo by Sweetwater

Tascam DR-680 Winter NAMM 2010 Demo

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for How To Sync Sound Devices 552 To A Tascam DR--680 Or Other Digital Audio Recorder With Digital Input by Steve Oakley

How To Sync Sound Devices 552 To A Tascam DR--680 Or Other Digital Audio Recorder With Digital Input

Steve Oakley

Steve Oakley

Video thumbnail for Tascam DR-680: Eight-Track Portable Recorder Captures It All (Video) by gearwire

Tascam DR-680: Eight-Track Portable Recorder Captures It All (Video)

gearwire

gearwire

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Tascam DR680 8-track Portable Digital Field Audio Recorder.

Features and functionality

  • The Tascam DR680 is not directly mentioned, but the F8's ability to record safety tracks with dual pre-amps provides a useful reference for similar functionality.

    Source
  • The F8 allows dual card slots for simultaneous backup recording, a feature that may be comparable in other advanced recorders.

    Source
  • The Tascam DR680 can record 8 tracks simultaneously and outputs to a WAV POLY file, providing flexibility for complex recordings.

    Source
  • Tascam DR680 can be reverse-engineered to play back tracks simultaneously, providing four discrete outputs for stable live performance.

    Source
  • DR680 has six RCA line outs, allowing for flexible output routing in live settings.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Zoom F series is recommended over the H series due to better features, including true backup channels and dual card slots.

    Source
  • Some users transitioned from the Tascam to the Fostex DC R302, citing better build quality and sound performance for a slightly higher price.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • For backup recordings, an alternative setup includes using compact recorders like the Tascam DR10L, but this sacrifices ISO channels for a mix recording.

    Source
  • The DR680 is favored by freelancers for its ability to handle multiple simultaneous tracks, making it versatile for location sound recording.

    Source
  • Ideal for bands needing crash-proof playback, the DR680 offers reliable multitrack playback with separate outputs for click and backing tracks.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report significant battery drain when using the Tascam DR680 with AA batteries, suggesting frequent replacements or an alternative power source.

    Source
  • Owners report the DR680's versatility, being used both for stable live playback and as a multitrack recorder for rehearsals or shows.

    Source

Other

  • A Portabrace bag is highly recommended for the Tascam DR680 to improve portability and protection during field use.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • At around $600, the DR680 is a cost-effective alternative for reliable multitrack playback compared to more expensive hardware solutions.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Recording In The Field: The Tascam DR680 | Joint Custody Productions LLC

jointcustodyprod.com

The Tascam DR680 impresses as a versatile 8-track portable digital field recorder, ideal for capturing pristine audio on-the-fly in challenging environments. Its intuitive design makes it accessible to those familiar with digital recorders, while offering practical features like solo tracking and live panning. The device’s lightweight construction and battery efficiency are commendable, although its plastic build demands careful handling in rugged conditions. Despite the misleading "8-track" label—realistically a 6-track setup—the DR680 delivers exceptional audio quality and reliability, making it a recommended choice for smaller studios in need of a cost-effective and user-friendly solution.

positive

Tascam DR-680 Portable Recorder Review

mixonline.com

The Tascam DR-680 shines as a mid-level field recorder with impressive sound quality, transparent digital capture, and sufficient inputs for most applications. Its lightweight design and convenient monitoring options make it a solid choice for field recording. However, users may encounter occasional file management errors and a somewhat clunky menu interface. Despite these drawbacks, its performance and features make it a worthwhile investment for those in need of a reliable portable recorder.

positive

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Artist usage

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See how Oneohtrix Point Never uses Tascam DR680 8-track Portable Digital Field Audio Recorder

Oneohtrix Point Never

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Ford & Lopatin

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Yeah, I mean I'm not out there with a DR680 getting all Nat Geo in the field. I just use a Roland SP-404.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Tascam DR680 8-track Portable Digital Field Audio Recorder, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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