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Average Price: $250

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$1700+

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Description

The MT400 consists of three major sections:

  • Mixer section that enables you to mix sounds (with eight inputs and one stereo output)

  • Recorder section that records and plays sound (with four tracks and four channels)

  • Utility sections including meters, power switches, etc.

Mixer

  • Continuously variable GAIN controls on Input Channels 1 through 4 allow the MT400 to handle any type of input source with ease, including microphone and line-level signals such as synthesizers.

  • Musical three-band EQ on each input channel, and INSERT I/O jacks on Input Channels 1 and 2 for external processor patching enable high-quality recording.

  • Two auxiliary sends for external reverb and other effects processor patching.

  • Two stereo input jacks for connecting a synthesizer and other line-level instruments that have stereo outputs. These jacks can be also used to return processed signals from external signal processors.

  • In-line configuration that allows you to control input signals and tape playback signals simultaneously. You can monitor track signals adjusted by the CUE controls while making a recording on all four input channels. During mixdown, you can play back four-track signals via the input channels, while mixing input signals via the CUE controls.

Recorder

  • dbx™ noise reduction system provides a signal-to-noise ratio in excess of 80 dB.

  • Punch in/out functions using a footswitch or the switch on the panel.

  • SYNC OUT outputs a sync track (Track 4) signal, providing synchronous operation between the MT400 and a MIDI sequencer. In SYNC mode, the dbx™ noise reduction can be turned off for Track 4, ensuring reliable synchronization.

  • Tape speed is switchable between 9.5 cm/second and 4.8 cm/second. The MT400 standard tape speed is 9.5 cm/second for greater sonic performance. A speed of 4.8 cm/second is the same speed as a normal cassette recorder, doubling the recording time relative to the MT400 standard speed.

  • Pitch control enables you to fine-adjust the pitch in the range between –10% and +10%.

Owner's manual

Yamaha MT400 Multitrack Cassette Recorder User Manual

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model MT400 Multitrack Cassette Recorder
Finish Black
Year 1990s
Made In China
Categories Recording Gear
Electronics Analog, Solid State
Format Desktop Standalone
Number of Analog Inputs 8
Number of Analog Outputs 6
Number of Channels 4
Number of Digital Inputs 0
Number of Digital Outputs 0
Number of Headphone Outputs 1
Number of MIDI Inputs 0
Number of MIDI Outputs 0

FAQs

How many tracks can be recorded simultaneously on the Yamaha MT400?

The Yamaha MT400 allows you to record up to four tracks simultaneously, making it suitable for small band recordings or solo projects with multiple layers.

What type of inputs does the Yamaha MT400 Multitrack Cassette Recorder have?

The Yamaha MT400 features eight analog inputs, allowing for versatile connectivity with various instruments and microphones for recording.

Is the Yamaha MT400 suitable for modern home studios?

While the Yamaha MT400 is an analog cassette-based recorder, it offers a unique vintage sound that can complement digital setups, though it may require additional equipment for integration with modern DAWs.

Can I use headphones with the Yamaha MT400?

Yes, the Yamaha MT400 includes one headphone output for monitoring your recordings directly from the unit.

Does the Yamaha MT400 have digital input or output options?

The Yamaha MT400 does not have digital inputs or outputs, as it is an entirely analog device designed for cassette recording.

Jensen Forshaw Music

Jensen Forshaw Music

Lofi Tape saturation on the MT400

Video thumbnail for Lofi Tape saturation on the MT400 by Jensen Forshaw Music

Lofi Tape saturation on the MT400

Jensen Forshaw Music

Jensen Forshaw Music

Video thumbnail for Tape's a Hard-A$$! Why You Should Start Using a 4 Track! Setup and Demo Recording with Yamaha MT-400 by Soundacres Studio

Tape's a Hard-A$$! Why You Should Start Using a 4 Track! Setup and Demo Recording with Yamaha MT-400

Soundacres Studio

Soundacres Studio

Video thumbnail for Cassette Beat Tape 2 by Brothers Nylon

Cassette Beat Tape 2

Brothers Nylon

Brothers Nylon

Video thumbnail for Ambient tape loop [ Yamaha MT400 / Death by audio rooms ] by Pepe Ivañez

Ambient tape loop [ Yamaha MT400 / Death by audio rooms ]

Pepe Ivañez

Pepe Ivañez

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA MT400 by SONIDO LA CAOBA

YAMAHA MT400

SONIDO LA CAOBA

SONIDO LA CAOBA

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha MT400 Multitrack Cassette Recorder.

Features and functionality

  • The Yamaha MT400 distorts well, though it may have lower bass response depending on the microphone used.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • One owner paid $200 plus shipping for an MT400 with its original box and unused Yamaha speakers, comparing favorably to higher-priced Tascams.

    Source
  • A non-functional unit like the MT400 with faulty FF/RWD commands should be valued under $300 AUD, reflecting its repair requirements.

    Source
  • US prices for non-working "junk" MT400 units range from $130-160 USD, providing a benchmark for international pricing comparisons.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Users appreciate the MT400 for its vintage tone and the creative focus required when limited to four tracks, as opposed to unlimited digital options.

    Source
  • One owner has used the MT4X to record approximately 20 albums in genres like dungeon synth, dark jazz, ambient, and black metal over four years, highlighting its versatility.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The MT400's analog recording offers a distinct experience absent in digital multitrackers like the Zoom R8, appealing to those seeking vintage sound and workflow.

    Source

Other

  • The MT400's simplicity of interface becomes apparent after initial use, making it less daunting than it first appears.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the MT4X report it as their best-sounding 4-track recorder, providing great fidelity and warmth, especially with keyboards and microphones.

    Source

Build quality

  • Long-term users note that their Yamaha MT400 units are starting to show wear and tear, suggesting potential longevity concerns for heavy users.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Fast-forward and rewind issues likely linked to belt problems, suggesting potential repair needs before purchase.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
rawplaya

Пушка

Отличный кассетный микшер с прекрасным звуком, интуитивно понятный, простая индикация при этом верная. Кассеты хавает все, от пленки к пленке звук меняется, можно экспериментировать. Давольно живая эквализация. Вот что не понравилось так это гейны, очень говнят, не в хорошем смысле для звука.

From Gear Setup

Artist usage

Add artist
See how emma essex uses Yamaha MT400 Multitrack Cassette Recorder

emma essex

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

The MT-400 can be seen in many of emma’s production streams and album notes.

4-channel tape loops show up in my work far more frequently than one might imagine, usually in the form of 5~ second loops, but here are a couple exceptions: "closet" (60sec tape) and a more recent one i haven't recorded yet (30sec tape dubbed at 2x speed). accidentally recorded this in mono :(

See how Jason Nazary uses Yamaha MT400 Multitrack Cassette Recorder

Jason Nazary

Drummer, Keyboardist

Anteloper

...
Verified via Instagram

Featured in this May 15, 2017 Instagram post, in which Nazary demonstrates accelerating a cassette tape of his drumming.

figured out how to get that next level speed 🚀

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Yamaha MT400 Multitrack Cassette Recorder, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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rawplaya

rawplaya

Gear IQ 269

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