Version 3.0 Firmware Update for the Tascam DA‑6400 Digital Multitrack Recorder/Player

Bringing Enhanced Functionality

Tascam DA‑6400 Firmware Update

Tascam introduces the version 3.0 update for the DA-6400, the company’s 64-track digital multitrack recorder/player which is said to be the ideal choice for live recording, event capture, as a backup solution for use with DAWs, as well as a multi-channel playback device for theme parks, theaters, and a variety of installations.

The v3.0 update adds nine new functions that improve the overall usability of multi-playback audio, including shorter time for content production, and a more intuitive interface to prevent accidental settings and operation. For a quick view and reference, the addition of Contrast control for the display time counter improves visibility of take names in the home screen. Similarly, the playback setting state of the auto ready and theater play functions can now be displayed on the home screen, providing instant verification of the current setting. Another important addition is an ABS time display for users preferring that time format.

For more intuitive operation, there is now a key combination (Stop + Rewind) for a quick jump to the first take. A key shortcut (F5) is also available for instant access to the playlist edit screen which offers a new ability to switch between the entry number/time counter and display/time mode. Mark setting can now be locked to prevent the creation of undesired mark points during production and, in the event they are not required, pop-up messages during mark point setting and setting lock can be turned off. Further, the display name of the mark point matches the current time on the playlist edit entry screen. As a result, verification is possible from either menu.

Monitoring and controlling each individual track has also been improved for easier operation via VNC, for example. This includes the possibility to switch batch and range settings on and off for all channels at once

Tascam AK-CC25 | SSD storage case for DA-6400 seriesThe DA-6400 supports simultaneous recording/playback of 64 channels at 48-kHz/24-bit or 32 channels at 96-kHz/24-bit hi-res audio. Of note, two DA-6400 can be cascaded, enabling playback and recording of up to 128 channels simultaneously. To ensure the utmost performance, the DA-6400 records to a Tascam-developed SSD that is pre-installed into a storage caddy (Tascam AK‑CC25), which can be hot-swapped for easy delivery to clients. This caddy is also equipped with a USB 3.0 port for rapid transfer of data to DAW systems.

Tascam ak cc25

Thanks to its two expansion slots, the DA-6400 can accommodate various I/O cards that allow it to be integrated into a wide range of applications. These include two MADI options, Dante, and AES/EBU for multi-channel operation – enabling use with nearly any pro audio equipment using the latest digital audio networks using coaxial, optical, or CAT5/CAT6 connections. This versatility makes the DA-6400 the ideal backup recording system for synchronized capture with Pro Tools systems. Further, the DA-6400 includes SMPTE LTC timecode I/O for location synchronization, a parallel remote-control input, and an RS-422 9-pin serial remote control port. Firmware updates take place via the USB port

With support of Gigabit Ethernet for file transfer, remote control, and monitoring over a network, File Transfer Protocol (FTP), plus SNTP (Simple Network Time Protocol) for updating its internal clock over a network, the slim DA-6400 offers exceptional operational flexibility. Video reference (NTSC/PAL blackburst signals and HDTV Tri-level signals) plus word clock input, output and thru are also supported.

Version 3 follows previous notable updates: Version 2.0 and 2.20 included a Theater Play function. This allows marks to be added for starting and ending points on each take, making it possible to trigger a marked playback range of multiple takes, in order. In addition to conventional playback operations, both serial and parallel external control can be used to send play triggers. Another noteworthy addition to version 2 was the playlist function. This not only makes it possible to assign takes to a list in the order one prefers, but also nondestructively set playback ranges for every audio entry without affecting the audio files. Additionally, loading and writing flash start playlist files is supported.

In addition to the aforementioned upgrades, users will also appreciate the Tascam DA-6400 Control remote control app for use with the Apple iPad. Of course, the DA-6400 records in Broadcast WAV format which includes timecode information in the data file and makes both file searches and importing files from Pro Tools quick and easy.

Firmware updates for the Tascam DA-6400 can be downloaded free of charge from the Tascam website.

www.tascam.eu