The Sound Quality of Tascam DP 008EX Built-in Microphones vs. External Mics

When it comes to digital recording, the Tascam DP 008EX is designed to provide an affordable solution, striking a balance between cost and functionality. However, this affordability comes with trade-offs in terms of audio quality, particularly in the use of the built-in microphones compared to external mics. Let's explore the differences and implications.

The Cost-Effective Design

The Tascam DP 008EX is engineered with a focus on usability and cost-effectiveness. Its specifications include a 16-bit, 44.1 kHz sampling rate, which aligns with consumer-grade applications but falls short in professional settings where higher sample rates and bitrates are required for pristine audio.

Why the Low Specifications?

Given that the primary goal is to provide a listenable recording at a lower cost, the manufacturer does not allocate substantial resources to enhancing the built-in microphones. These microphones, likely designed for telephone use, are not optimized for high-fidelity recording.

What to Expect from the Built-in Microphones

According to TASCAM's literature, the DP 008EX is intended for quickly capturing ideas. This doesn't mean that professional-grade recordings are impossible, but it does highlight the limitations of the internal microphones.

Limitations: The electret omni-directional microphones, while sufficient for basic recordings, have fixed placement, which limits their ability to capture the full stereo image. Room Acoustics: The quality of the recording is heavily influenced by the room's acoustics. In rooms with good acoustic properties, the internal microphones might produce satisfactory results. Room Problems: In rooms with poor acoustic properties, the limitations become more apparent. The stereo image cannot be manipulated, and ambient room noise can be more prominent in the final recording.

Improving Sound Quality with External Mics

If you require better sound quality and more control over your recordings, attaching an external microphone can significantly enhance the audio output. External mics offer several advantages:

Flexibility: You can position the microphone to better capture the desired sound, enhancing the stereo image. Sound Isolation: External mics allow you to minimize ambient room noise and unwanted background sounds. Professional Sound: High-quality external microphones, such as condensers or large-diaphragm microphones, can produce exceptionally clear and detailed audio.

For critical applications, external mics are an essential tool. They provide unparalleled control over the recording process, enabling you to achieve professional-grade sound even with consumer-level equipment like the Tascam DP 008EX.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the Tascam DP 008EX is a cost-effective and practical solution for quick recording needs, the built-in microphones are not designed for professional applications. If you prioritize better sound quality and have the flexibility to use external mics, you can significantly improve the recording's performance.

Ultimately, the choice between using the built-in microphones and external mics depends on your specific needs. For basic recording and impromptu audio capture, the internal microphones are adequate. However, for more rigorous applications or when capturing high-quality audio is a priority, external mics are the way to go.