Tascam DR-60DmkII Audio Field Recorder Review

[@DJB1609]

Thank you for this and other videos. I bought this unit after failing to get clean sound in my DSLR. This is actually easy to use and set up at a basic level, and I'm sure as I delve into sound I'll make more use of the features. Absolutely clean and crisp audio now, with the tone at the start and tail making syncing with the in-camera recording a breeze. I've subscribed as I'm sure the wealth of information you offer will be very useful. You are probably the best and most informative youtube reviewers. I just wonder who downvotes a video like this! None so weird as folk!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks David and best wishes on your recordings!

[@djbc6933]

Your reviews on the TASCAM MKI/II are the best thanks for adding this one.

[@curtisjudd]

DJ BC6 Thanks!

[@markgbyrne]

I bought one last month (July 22) for on-location interviews for my podcast. I use it with an ENG dynamic mic or Rode Wireless Go. I'm really impressed by the versatility and sound quality. It's the perfect partner for my Rodecaster. Thanks for the video.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Mark, glad to hear it works well for you. Happy recording!

[@mattlocdproductions]

I love mine too

[@MasterOfBasses]

You are great. One of the best reviewers without a doubt. Thank you very much. Your videos are extremely useful.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Juan.

[@StarOasis26]

I'm an audio recording enthusiast , and I find the low noise preamps to be a whole lot cleaner, in fact I stereo record with a pair of rode m5 microphones on acoustic guitar and it is phenomenal

[@alexanderlyon]

Hi Curtis. Just clicked "purchase" on this recorder AND the Deity S-mic 2. I made sure I came back and went through your links so you'd get a well-earned affiliate commission. Thanks, brother. I appreciate your thorough reviews. And, thanks you, the audio quality in the world just got a tiny bit better. :-)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Alex and I hope they work well for you! Happy recording!

[@scheupoe]

Love your interview setup and lighting this is beautifully done. Great Job.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@junew3015]

i am a film student, and all your review help me a lot !!!!!! thankful

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@bebet12463]

May I ask what did you like with the Dr70d in particular? I was leaning on the Dr60d mkii for the channel monitoring and the price. I was thinking if there was something with the dr70d that was worth choosing it over the Dr60d mkii and shelling out 100dollars more. Thanks

[@curtisjudd]

I like the form factor of the 70D a little better than the 60DmkII which is a bit more brick-like. In terms of audio quality they are essentially identical. I do like that the fact that the 60DmkII has more physical controls (e.g., phantom power switch on the 60DmkII vs having to go into the menu on the 70D). In short, they're both great and if you're ok with the shape of the 60D, it is a great option (I have the original and the mkII)

[@bebet12463]

+Curtis Judd thanks again! Sorry for the double post. Awesome videos

[@muzykfcm9411]

Nice to hear it. Check what new with Tascam this year: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpOWdKqMr919sK8

[@RhubarbSenpai]

Thanks for the review! I found the noise floor comparison especially useful hands-on information. Been very pleased using a TASCAM US-366 for my in-studio recording, so I'm glad to hear their field solutions are similarly up to snuff.

[@curtisjudd]

RhubarbSenpai Thanks!

[@gcprost]

I purchased the DR 60D Mark II when my DR 40 died. The external battery pack which I bought for the DR 40 works with the DR 60 and it attaches the same way. This is an inexpensive unit but the quality of the audio is fine for the way I use it. I have no issues operating this unit, but I don’t use this to its full potential. I basically use this to record the audio from the house mix from the theatre or the club’s audio system. I also record audio with mics on stage with a DR 44 WR in addition I record audio with shotguns on the cameras (scratch audio and backup). This recorder is a really good value in my view. Gerry in Calgary.

[@curtisjudd]

+Gerald Prost thanks Gerry, great to hear your perspective on this!

[@hybridmajik]

This is something im looking into. Hopefully you're still active on youtube and see this. Has your DR 60D Mkii lasted over the years? Ever get xlr cables stuck? My mind is preventing me from buying it based on reviews I'm reading.

[@gcprost]

@@hybridmajik Yes, I'm still using the DR60. It is very reliable. Now I power it with a USB battery and if it is ever disconnected the internal batteries will take over seemlessly. My XLRs have never got stuck.

[@HumbledIAm]

@GeraldPost, I've been considering how I can record audio into my DR60mkII from a house mix, say, for a theatrical production. Would you mind sharing how you integrate yours into a house mix for your events, please?

[@gcprost]

@@HumbledIAm I bring along two 4’ XLR cables. I ask the audio engineer to hook them up (I can do it, but they don’t want strangers messing with their board) and send ma a line level signal. Then I get him/her to play some of the program material at would be about the highest level, then I set the Tascam levels. Then I format the 32 GB card and start the recording. I also hook up a USB power source. In addition to the Tascam, I have a SoundDevices MixPre 3 with a Rode NT4 which I place on the stage. Each camera also has a shotgun microphone. This provides me with audio for syncing and back up audio. Redundancy is your friend.

[@protoman247]

Your videos are some of the best produced on KZbin. You deserve more subscribers.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@kalamfelsameem]

As u are really the best reviewer i watch on KZbin (in my opinion), I recommend that you review the Rode NT USB microphone... i just got one and for the price and being a usb mic you can't imagine how good the sound quality is. Good luck with all your videos.

[@curtisjudd]

Mohamed Elnazer Thanks Mohamed! That sound great--do you have a video or two where you used it?

[@kalamfelsameem]

I'm still working on my first video using it, i will upload it after about a week. I'll send you the link once i upload it.

[@curtisjudd]

Mohamed Elnazer Sounds great! Nice work!

[@reverencelost]

Very informative. I just picked up one of these, and haven't really had time to mess with it. You have yourself another subscriber. Thanks again.

[@curtisjudd]

***** Thanks Brian!

[@mcgovernproductions]

Thanks, Judd for putting this video out. You have helped me make my buying decision. Was going to purchase the Sound Devices Mixpre3 but now going to purchase the Tascam. You have also saved me a pretty penny. Keep up the fantastic work. Much appreciated. Cheers Andy :)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks and happy recording!

[@kalamfelsameem]

I just bought the Tascam dr-60d together with a rode ntg3 mic, i wanted to ask which is better, to record to the tascam or to connect it to my Nikon D5100, and which output to connect the high or the low? thanks in advance 😊

[@curtisjudd]

+‫محمد الناظر‬‎ Best in terms of audio quality or best in terms of convenience? For audio quality, I would record to the Tascam and then sync the audio to the video in editing. The Tascam's audio is significantly better (in my opinion) than what you'd get from the Nikon even using the Tascam as a preamplifier. If your question is about convenience and not having to sync in post, then I'd use the high line-level output from the Tascam to feed to the Nikon and reduce the mic input level on the Nikon to the lowest setting (but not turned off). Best wishes!

[@kalamfelsameem]

+Curtis Judd thank you very much, i wanted a better audio quality, so I will sync them in post. 😊

[@curtisjudd]

+‫محمد الناظر‬‎ Excellent choice, that's what I do. And while it takes a few extra seconds, I've always been pleased with the better quality sound.

[@pol4171]

I always like how calmly you present your subject; very comfortable to listen to and to concentrate on important details with the slow pace editing. I would have you as my mentor. :-)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Polen Ly.

[@electricbent5633]

For battery packs, I use cell phone holders and mount them on the tripod. An example is the Newppon Rotatable Running Phone Armband, which works with various sizes and the armband is Velcro.

[@curtisjudd]

Clever idea - thanks for sharing!

[@JordanCrowderFilms]

I've had a problem with the original Tascam DR-60D not working with Eneloop Pro rechargeable batteries, even after changing the battery settings in the menu. Anyone else have this problem? Anyone know of a workaround?

[@jimkuehn]

Just picked one up.. yes, years late, but it seems to hold up well. Looking forward to adding to my value-based kit. Great coverage as always in CJ videos.

[@curtisjudd]

Congrats and happy recording!

[@RapzoneProductions]

The portion mainly i did not understand was about the audio get record is it necessary to sync everytime or it can get record directly to the footage of camera? and which microphone is better to record Rode or any condenser mic will do?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, yes you can do it either way. The 60DmkII has a 3.5mm output to feed the audio to camera. You would just connect this to your camera using a male to male 3.5mm TRS cable (standard stereo cable). Which mic is best depends on a lot of factors. Which types of microphones are you considering? More importantly, what types of video will you be shooting?

[@stevendelopoulos]

Curtis , thank you for your response. That makes total sense. Have a great day !!!

[@paulisemonger280]

Thank you! Straightforward, pro level advice. All my questions answered in one video.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Paul.

[@JeremiahBostwick]

The crazy part is I'm stumbling on this video in 2022. Wonder how it stacks up now, especially considering Tascam hasn't updated the DR60 for the past, nearly, 8 years.

[@curtisjudd]

Of the $200 field recorders I've used, it is still pretty good. I still prefer it over any version of the ZOOM H4n/Pro.

[@MONTREALITY]

Hello Curtis ! I was wondering which boom stand you use, I have the Sennheiser MKE600 + Tascam DR-60 mk2, and I can't fit them on my boom stand without a 1/4 to 5/8 adapter for the Tascam and 1/4 to 3/8 for the Sennheiser.

[@curtisjudd]

+MONTREALITY For my mic, I use a standard microphone stand like those that musicians use on stage: amzn.to/1S3AiEv I mount the Tascam on my camera rig using the 1/4-20 on top of the recorder. I use the Varavon Armor 2 cage: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4vUgIWGgc-Ue8k

[@curtisjudd]

+OMAR SHABAZZ Question first: Why are you trying to feed the audio to both cameras? I assume this is a multicam shoot where you will cut between the two cameras in post? If so, why do you need to feed audio to both cameras?

[@curtisjudd]

+OMAR SHABAZZ If you're going to do a multicam project, you will have to sync the two cameras together in FCP. So you can just send the audio to one camera and use that audio for the entire multicam sequence, dropping the audio from the other camera. That is a much more direct approach and will make production much easier. In fact, I would just record the audio with the Tascam and then sync the audio clip to the clips from the two cameras and not bother with sending the audio to the camera during the shoot. But you could do it to just one camera and save yourself some hassle. Best wishes!

[@curtisjudd]

+OMAR SHABAZZ No, unfortunately it only takes SDHC cards up to 32GB but here are two things to consider: 32GB can hold well over 4 hours of recorded audio so you'll be fine. More importantly, if you're going to do continuous takes that long (three hours), you will likely experience drift between the recorder and the cameras. This is a case where you are probably better off feeding the audio from the Tascam into one of the cameras so that it will not drift from that camera. Good luck!

[@michaelsvlog]

When I connect the samsung NX1 to line out on tascam it doesn't seem to be recording the audio directly to camera.

[@curtisjudd]

Ok, you'll want to confirm that the microphone input is on. Also try the other camera output on the 60D and you may need to adjust the output level on the 60D with the dial next to the output jack. Good luck!

[@GAMESPOTLIGHTTVLIVE]

yeah this video. it takes me back into memory lane curtis. this was when i first became aware of your channel

[@curtisjudd]

Oh, wow, that's an oldie but goodie. Thanks for watching for all these years!

[@AllThingsFilm1]

Thanks to this video, I bought the DR-60Dmkll earlier this year. Since then, I've captured great audio with it. It makes me look like a pro.

[@curtisjudd]

👍 Happy recording! 🎤

[@SalveseQuienPuedaUSA]

What make and model is the cage featured in your video at 11:22 min. Same for the Articulating arm. THX

[@curtisjudd]

***** That is the Fhugen Honu 2.0 cage for Panasonic GH4. I reviewed it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/faeZnYmdm5Wojq8 I will confess that I have replaced it with another cage that I prefer: The Varavon Armor II cage which I reviewed here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/o4vUgIWGgc-Ue8k The articulating arm is a Kamerar Tough 7" arm: amzn.to/1KtHYtZ

[@Rivenworld]

Brilliant! Thanks for this, having recently bought the Tascam DR-60D MKII I have watched various reviews on it but this is by far the best, I have just bought a USB battery pack for mine as the AA rechargeables don't really give you a lot of time - even the high capacity ones. Interesting on the stepped potentiometer, never noticed the change on the dialogue but on the tone, wow, what a difference, made it really clear, as you say, anything with either music or a continuous tone this could cause issues and it is worth knowing. As it is I am taking mine (and its manual) into work tomorrow so I can get used to it in my lunch break. Thanks again for another great video - between you and Tony & Chelsea Northrup I am pretty well covered ;-)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks, I appreciate the feedback!

[@sarfios]

is it normal to have noise from the 60D when monitoring through the headset?

[@curtisjudd]

It depends. It isn't the cleanest of headphone preamplifiers, but it will also allow you to hear noise that is being captured or produced by the microphone.

[@ZDWildCamping]

Do you know why channels 1 & 2 have far less natural hiss (even without mics connected) than the 3 & 4 channels?

[@curtisjudd]

I have a guess: Input 3/4 is an unbalanced input by design. Unbalanced inputs are more susceptible to noise and interference. There are probably other factors as well.

[@ZDWildCamping]

thank you for replying. i'm looking to improve the audio of my videos because my last one was terrible. i've taken one of these from a friend but feeling a bit baffled by the natural hissing is this not something you faced? i am using a professional mic and cable but it seems that the machine itself has more natural hiss than i expected

[@curtisjudd]

+CitySteading Yes, that doesn't sound right. Which microphone are you using?

[@ZDWildCamping]

I'm not entirely sure. I'm not an expert in this field as you can imagine but the cable is apparently by Mogami with something which is called neutrik gold. The microphones are: Beyerdynamic M700 TG, an unnamed AKG (which as far as I can recall is good for instruments) and a Blue Baby Bottle. That said, I've read people's comments and saw that other people do report similar "issues" when connecting studio monitoring headphones (I'm using the DT 770) and turning the phones volume to 10 (max) without any microphones connected at all there seems to be quite a bit of hiss. My problem, which again I have to say that reading the comments I see others have faced as well, that I don't have professional software to deal with the hiss in post and using Audacity's noise reduction results in a tinny, robotic, "pixely", matrix-kind-a sound which seems even worse as a minor hiss can be masked by background music. What do you think? Is this a bad unit? If I buy a new one for myself should I expect no hiss? Many thanks for replying!

[@curtisjudd]

Ok, thanks for the additional info. I'm a little confused on what the problem is. Are your recordings full of hiss when you download them to your computer and monitor them with a known good set of headphones? Or is the issue just when monitoring from the Tascam itself? Also, the mics you mentioned I believe are all XLR based mics. Are you recording with channels 3/4 at all? If not and you turn them off, do your recordings still have a lot of hiss? Do you have any sample recordings online I could listen to? Thanks!

[@quigsjnr]

I can't get any sound playback from the 3.5mm Jack it acts as if their is no input and I have tried 3 mics

[@curtisjudd]

Which of the 3.5mm output jacks? Which mics? Gain level? Let's figure this out.

[@AngloSaxon1]

So, could I plug my mic into a professional mic pre , and then the mic pre into the tascam mkII and get a professional sound

[@curtisjudd]

You certainly could. Then your audio signal chain would be limited by the quality of the analogue to digital converter in the Tascam as that is the main thing it would be doing.

[@AngloSaxon1]

Curtis Judd so would you recommend a more expensive recorder than the 60d mkII?

[@curtisjudd]

@@AngloSaxon1 Yes, rather than use a pro level preamp plus a recorder, I would instead save up for a recorder with pro-level microphone inputs like the Zoom F4 or the Sound Devices MixPre-3.

[@AngloSaxon1]

Curtis Judd thank you for your advice, I will definitely go for the better recorder

[@rustycalvera977]

does anyone know if using a good clean signal from a mixer to the line-in Input on the DR-60Dmkll by-passes the Tascam pre-amps? thanks

[@curtisjudd]

If you set the input to line-level on the DR-60D, yes, it bypasses the preamp.

[@rustycalvera977]

thanks for the reply...that's good to know......and thanks for the great video's you produce....they are very informative.

[@bluelid]

Great channel with really good information!! And built-in tech support . . . awesome Curtis - keep up the great videos! Would love to see more videos on how to setup audio on tascam with a canon 6D mII and how to shoot audio back out so you can hear yourself when recording. also, how to set up a macbook pro so that can be your external monitor for corporate and customer testimonial videos for the do-it-yourself marketing teams (no video crew) - most importantly, connecting all of the patch cables between recording device and camera

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Paul for the feedback and input on future episodes!

[@v33dsportsvideoservices40]

Is the 70d worth its premium vs the 60d?

[@AllThingsFilm1]

Is there a setting to change from 24fps to 23.98fps? I searched the manual and online and couldn't find it.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Todd, I don't believe that the DR-60DmkII stamps with frames, just HH:MM:SS so there is not a framerate setting.

[@LearnCanterbury]

Apart from battery life, my only gripe with the DR-60 (mk1) is that every time I change batteries it re-sets the clock/time-stamp. Not sure if this is just me missing some obvious setting, but it makes the time-stamp on audio files useless (changing batteries is something you do fairly often ... and you don't want to be messing about with the time-settings every time.) Just wondering if this happens to anyone else - and if so, is it 'fixed' on the mk2?

[@curtisjudd]

+LearnCanterbury On the mkII, it seems like if you change the batteries relatively quickly (in a couple minutes time), it doesn't require me to reset the time. However, if I leave batteries out for an extended period of time, I have to reset the date. So it would appear that the mkII has the ability to hold a charge internally for at least a couple of minutes.

[@robstowell6830]

+Curtis Judd Good to know, thanks. Almost worth getting for that plus a bit more gain. With a better battery/power set-up they'd be hard to fault.

[@curtisjudd]

+Rob Stowell I agree. That external USB battery is a life saver for me. While it is a pain in terms of additional weight, once I set it up to attach to the battery cover via adhesive velcro, it's been great to work with.

[@LearnCanterbury]

I'm definitely going to get one. I have a small bucket of dead batteries; my rechargables are fine for radio mics, but they don't last long in the Dr60.

[@savingoursharks]

How can I get hold of the Multi-Mount for Attaching Video Gear-on the video

[@curtisjudd]

savingoursharks Hi, thanks for your comment! I'm not quite sure what you mean, would you please clarify?

[@Tvsurfmedia]

Curtis Judd The metal frame with holes where you attach the Tascam & the Ninja with the camera in the middle of the frame.

[@curtisjudd]

Oscar Carranza Oh, that's the camera cage. This one is the Fhugen Honu GH4 cage version 2.0. Here's a review I did a while back: kzbin.info/www/bejne/faeZnYmdm5Wojq8 More recently I found a better cage for the Panasonic GH4 by Varavon: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qaebm6aebp6psKc

[@Tvsurfmedia]

Curtis Judd Thank Curtis you are my video hero,thanks again for taking the time to answear.

[@saysomethingafrica]

And also when camera is in use and you need to make adjustments to the Tascam recorder, does it not cause vibrations to the camera's footage being recorded?

[@curtisjudd]

It definitely can, yes. To avoid that, I almost always have the recorder separate from the camera and cage.

[@GSDPops]

What is that accessory cage thing you have playing at the 12:00 minute mark? I'm looking for something similar to that to attach my accessories to.

[@curtisjudd]

Hey Zack, that's a camera cage. My favorite is the Zeus Uni cage because it adapts to most DSLR and mirrorless cameras whereas in the past you had to find a cage for your specific camera model. Here's a review we did of the Zeus Uni: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXLadIChns5-mpI

[@robertobrito3996]

When I plug my tascam to a power bank there's a clicking sound that not appear using AA batteries, do you know what's causing this?

[@curtisjudd]

Hmm, might be a problem with the battery bank.

[@robertobrito3996]

@@curtisjudd I'll try with another cable because i've used already two different power banks, thank you for the suggestion!

[@laogeng]

Hi Curtis, could you please make a video showing of Tascam DR-60DmkII using a Deity RX-link cable with Deity TC-1? I need TC-1 to generate timecode on a track in the Tascam DR-60D Mark II. And using Deity Sidus to Sync APP to converst it out. I do appreciate it if you could make a video showing of the progress.

[@curtisjudd]

I'm sorry, I don't have a DR-60D anymore.

[@Open-ecommerceOrg]

Hi Curtis, thanks for this tutorial, i have a very similar setup with the ninja but i am always getting crazy to put all things together can you tell me how it is call the rack you use to mount all 3 things together (min 11:20) thanks a lot

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, that is a camera cage. My favorite is the Varavon Zeus Uni cage because it can fit most mirrorless and DSLR cameras. Here's a review of it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXLadIChns5-mpI

[@multimediadude]

Curtis, Hi I'm Rob Furman, I have just bought my DR60D and have having a problem with my card. It says that I have a bad card and I don't understand since I just got it out of the package and inserted it. It asks me BUS POWER OR STORAGE? then it says FORMAT ERROR, FORMAT CARD, ARE YOU SURE? after I press the ENTER KEY, it says WRITE PROTECTED, CHANGE CARD. WHAT THE HELL DO I DO?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Rob, sounds like there are a few different things going on there. Check first that the little switch on the Sadie of the SD card is set to the unlocked position. I would also disconnect any USB cables from the 60D until you get the card issue worked out - if you do have one connected. If that doesn’t help, probably best to contact Tascam support. Best wishes!

[@hermanokelah2319]

Can we connect this tascam to mixer so we could get more XLR mic? Thanks

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, should work great.

[@carlotheatheist]

sir. i have a plan. one of my mixer were have a mix bus output. which is 1 to 4 channel. now my plan is one of my mix bus output is for drums , the other output is for bass guitar, 3 is for vocal and the 4 is for jazz and acoustic area. now sir will can i connect that tascam Dr 60 into my mixer mix bus output?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, just set the input to line level on the DR-60D.

[@obiwanmartyn]

Hi Curtis just want to thank you for another great review I finally took the plunge today and bought the tascam dr 60D mkii and rode ntg2 upgrading from the zoom h1and rode videomic keep up the great work

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks! I hope you enjoy the new recorder and mike and that they help improve your sound further!

[@obiwanmartyn]

+Curtis Judd the tascam arrived in the post yesterday and sounds so much better with the videomic then the videomic did with the zoom H1 can't wait to have the ntg2 to go with it soon

[@botstudioz]

Awww... Nice but little bit pricey. So my next question. I have the 5D Mark 3 and just got the Tascam 60dmk2 as well as an aputure deity super cardioide shotgun mic. Please I am new to this and would like to know the specific settings I can use to put this together especially with the Tascam 60dmk2

[@curtisjudd]

I hope that this will help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iHWxm4Suqa-GqLc This is a session where we talked about setting up the Tascam.

[@gogiaudios]

Hey Curtis, I dont think you noticed the plug in power on 3 and 4 adds a lot of hiss. Also the headphone output has lots of noise. I wish you had addressed these in your video

[@curtisjudd]

Me too. I haven’t found the headphone jack to be problematic with Sony MDR7506s but the 3.5mm input is a noise factory.

[@priyanthasamaranayake5285]

I want to know from this recorder can record live musical show from mixer to this recorder directly or need any other part to connect those two. i mean big mixer and this recorder.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, you can feed a line level signal from a mixing board to the input on this recorder. Works great!

[@priyanthasamaranayake5285]

Thank you.

[@jeep69628]

The Sanken works well .... now I need to test it in the field .... seems it was the Sennheiser Mic the problem and not the preamp ...

[@curtisjudd]

Ok, good find!

[@quedecree]

I read a negative comment about the Tascam regarding an 'auto gain' that couldn't be turned off which caused the level to rise automatically in quiet sections. I haven't been able to find any other mention of this - have you ever struck this with the DR 60?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi, no, I set the gain manually. I don't believe I've ever seen an auto gain feature on this unit.

[@quedecree]

@@curtisjudd Thanks Curtis, that's reassuring. Must have been a case of crossed wires on the review I read.

[@JacquesCoulombe]

Bonjour Curtis, at 5:14 you wrote the screw is 1/2-20 is this en error, this thread is not standard, normally they are 1/4-20.

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, my mistake--it is a 1/4-20 thread. Thanks!

[@BravingTheOutDoors]

Do you power with both batteries and powerbank? Could you only use a powerbank? If you use both, will it draw the power from the powerbank first leaving the batteries charged and use them as a "backup" or is it the other way around?

[@curtisjudd]

+BravingTheOutDoors Yes, using the USB battery, it will pull from that first and then fail over to the internal AA batteries when the USB source can no longer provide power. You can use USB without internal batteries but it is best to keep AA batteries in the 60D so that you don't have to reset the date and clock each time you power up.

[@aaronwoodallphotography2280]

great review, still waiting to see some reviews popup for the new Tascam DR-100mk3

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Aaron. I've got the 100Dmk3 on my list to review but admittedly a little ways down the list. Hopefully I'll get there before too much longer.

[@ritterdude]

You didn't mention the USB power supply which I ordered with the unit.

[@curtisjudd]

+Dan Ritthaler Correct, I prefer the USB battery packs which power the DR-60DmkII longer than Tascam's battery unit.

[@LuxuryCotswoldRentals]

Hi, You very kindly helped me out in the past with this recorder and I'm hoping you will take the trouble and do so again? I haven't been able to figure out the playback of files when doing a dual channel recording. In the manual it says: 'Use the Monitor Select button during playback to switch between monitoring the two files created..' It won't let me do that. Ay advice/clarification would be extremely appreciated. Thank you. Maria

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Maria/Nigel, After pressing play, if I press the monitor select button, a menu appears which allows me to choose which single channel to listen to. I can then select the one I want and it only plays that one. Is that what you're looking to do? Good luck!

[@LuxuryCotswoldRentals]

Hi, apologies for the delay in replying but have only just seen. It doesn't work on mine. I press play and then monitor select but nothing happens. Maria

[@gsixx8fpv499]

Curtis if I have rechargeable batteries in the recorder when I connect a USB charging cable, will the batteries in the recorder charge?

[@curtisjudd]

No

[@mamadawley]

I have a lighting question. when shooting stage a stage lit situation that you have little control over how do you get rid of hot spots such as foreheads, noses, etc? Are polarizing filters of any use for this as some of this problem seems to be due to reflection?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Ruthann, usually makeup, powder in particular, is the tool to manage hot spots on foreheads, noses, and cheeks. Polarizers might help a touch but affect exposure quite a lot so not an ideal solution. They're also a little sensitive to angle so don't work 100% of the time.

[@RKRK-ci2vv]

Hi Cutis... I will be implementing that for my use. Great review, Good job! Thank you somuch RK

[@askay2k]

Beachtek and Juicedlink don't have 3.5mm input do they? I have got a stereo mic with 3.5mm jack, how can I hook it to Beachtek?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, the Beachtek DXA-Micro Pro does have a stereo 3.5mm input so you'd be all set if you decide to go that direction.

[@askay2k]

Cheers.

[@SecondCircleMedia]

What settings should I focus on for crowd noise or reduction. For Doing interviews in a night club

[@curtisjudd]

The main thing to focus on for rejecting crowd noise is to get the microphone close to those you're interviewing and use a microphone with a cardioid polar/pickup pattern. Then on the Tascam you just increase the gain setting until the meters top out at around -12 dB when the person is speaking into the microphone.

[@SecondCircleMedia]

@@curtisjudd thank u

[@andrejbjorn]

Well, I do absolutely live your thoughts. Amazing. Thank you.

[@FrootyRecords]

Very Clear explanation. Thank you for taking the time to do this.

[@curtisjudd]

+FrootyRecords You're welcome and thanks for the feedback!

[@BeauHannamGuitars]

Do you know if the only difference between the Tascam dr60mkii and dr-70d is the 70 has 4 xlr jacks???? And are these two still the best in their price range?? (the zoom F6 is just a little to much for me)- Thanks so much for all your excellent videos.

[@curtisjudd]

The menus are also a little different, the form factor is substantially different. I haven't officially tested the preamps in the DR70 so cannot speak to that. But the DR60DmkII is still a pretty decent option. I'd choose it over a Zoom H4n Pro.

[@HardikPatelBuzz]

Hi, Do you have a comparison video between Tascam DR 60d ii vs 70d? I will like to see that. I admire your work.

[@AdrianTschubarov]

Hi Curtis, can I just plug it into the phone charger, the one that goes plugged to the wall outlet?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, if it supplies enough amperage. It won't work if the AC wall adapter does not supply enough amperage.

[@AdrianTschubarov]

@@curtisjudd Thanks for the prompt response! I love your channel and it is my reference for all related to AV.

[@7863348]

Great review but I do have a question if you could answer it. I have two Sennheiser G3 receivers that I want to use for both talents. Can I hook the two of the Sennheiser receivers up to this unit and have the two artists audio appear on the video? Thanks in advance

[@curtisjudd]

Paul Short Yes! You'll just need to use 3.5mm to XLR cables from the Sennheiser receivers into the Tascam. If you want to record that to your camera, then just run a 3.5mm line out from the Tascam to your camera.

[@7863348]

Thanks Curtis. I appreciate your fast response. I'm trying to get the best possible audio for two people speaking at the same time so I'll use this as a mixer for both Sennheiser units. Enjoyed your presentation on this and thought it was very well done. So much in fact I subscribed. ;)

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Paul!

[@juliesteel4536]

Can I ask how do you use the earphones with this? My dad has bought this to connectsoemthinf to help him Hear the birds around him, I can not figure out how to get it to work

[@curtisjudd]

I believe there's a headphone volume roller controller on the side of the recorder.

[@juliesteel4536]

@@curtisjudd there is and I have tried this but still can hear nothing, only a bit of static

[@juliesteel4536]

Would he be able to actually hear the birds whilst recording live?

[@curtisjudd]

@@juliesteel4536 yes, it is real-time monitoring.

[@curtisjudd]

@@juliesteel4536 hmm, sounds like there’s a technical issue, then. Probably best to work with Tascam support.

[@SkintSNIPER262]

Could you also use the USB Charger with the DR100 Mkii?

[@curtisjudd]

***** I'm not sure. I sold it and now use the Tascam DR-60DmkII which has much cleaner preamps with more gain. You do give up the built-in mics with the 60D, but I didn't really use those anyway.

[@artistraindwain9855]

So would this be good for separate standard Video Canon HDV VIXIA camera not DSLR. Look like a nice addition to any kit,and I just want to know before I waste money.. Hope you have time to for my question

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, definitely good as a standalone recorder and if your camera has a 3.5mm input, you can route it into your camera and just take advantage of the XLR based preamps on the Tascam.

[@artistraindwain9855]

Thanks my friend ,,I feel better now . I`m a photographer and I will use it for interviews while I am not shooting during entertaiment @ graduation parties. I work alone and need all the help I can get . To me video is video and SLR is SLR. Primitive to some but still shoot B&W :)

[@curtisjudd]

MasteranArtform Dwain Totally agree - when in a really fast-paced solo situation, you can't mess around. Dedicated video cams can make things a little easier.

[@NyoMurdi]

Any info on how this recorder would handle Dynamic microphones such as the Sure SM58 and that type?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, at 00:45 :) It works great with the SM58.

[@inayabazzi4983]

Hi,I have camera canon 6d mark 2 and canon 5d mark 4 .can I use it ??

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, definitely. Best wishes!

[@alpine10]

Hello i recently got the DR60 Dmk2, really hapoy with the sound but ivwas surprised that the input gain potentiometers pruduced a stepped result on the gain.. Im used to a smooth ruse abd fall in gain and im worried that this is a fault or that its going to be annoying moving forward..

[@curtisjudd]

It is how it works, unfortunately.

[@alexanderlyon]

Yes! Received my Diety S Mic-2 and this DR-60mkII. They sound really great. Thank you!!! Super-detailed question. Would you recommend I (1) set my gain to low and just ease up the potentiometer to get the best signal level and quality OR should I (2) set the gain on mid and ease the potentiometer down? Does it matter or is the channel potentiometer just another way to boost or reduce gain incrementally? It's for talking head KZbin videos, btw. Thank you, again, for all of your help.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Alex, glad to hear they're working out well! I generally find myself set to mid gain and adjust the potentiometer from there to dial in the peaks to -18-ish. You can do it either way you outlined. Happy recording!

[@johnjames5370]

how does the recorder work with a lavalier microphone

[@curtisjudd]

Most lavalier microphones have a 3.5mm plug. There are two main ways to route this type of microphone into the Tascam DR-60DmkII: 1) via the 3.5mm microphone input and 2) via a wireless microphone system which has an XLR output or 3.5mm output. The DR-60D's 3.5mm input is not stellar in terms of self-noise. So this would not be my first recommendation for that scenario. If on the other hand you plan to use a wireless system with XLR output, the XLR inputs on the Tascam are quite impressive for the price and I would recommend it. I hope that clarifies. Thanks!

[@creativejuicesvideo]

Regarding the XLRs sticking in the original DR-60, I had that happen to me. Until viewing your video, I didn't realize it was something that happened to others. I just thought I had a bad one. I can assure you, though, that it was not just a matter of the XLR cannon being bent or too tight. It had to do with the locking pin inside the DR-60 that engages with the slot on the male XLR sleeve. In my case, pushing the release didn't move that pin far enough out of the slot, and there was absolutely no way to remove the XLR once it was locked in. This was a pro-quality cable with brand new Neutrik connectors. We even took it into our shop, desoldered and disassembled the cable, so that the only thing left in the port was the cannon sleeve and attempted to dislodge it with various tools, but it was impossible. I ended up having to return it to B&H with the sleeve still attached, and they sent me a new DR-60 unit that worked fine.

[@curtisjudd]

+creativejuicesvideo Interesting, thanks for the details. Perhaps some of those locking mechanisms were defective on some production runs.

[@JimineyBob]

Do you think that you could go in depth of how you organized the pre-amplifiers and settings to get the audio that you have? I just received mine (Merry Christmas), and I don't know what to do with it other than stare at its glory. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Hi JimineyBob, here's one of our Sound for Video Sessions where we talked about setting up your recorder: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iHWxm4Suqa-GqLc I hope that helps and Merry Christmas!

[@jimihindrix7977]

The SM58 Impedance is Rated 150Ω (300Ω actual) for connection to microphone inputs rated low impedance. The DR-60DmkII input impedance is 2 kΩ for the XLR input. There is no matching impendance. Is it a problem or no. I don't understand. One of the comparison was made with the Sure SM 58 microphone.

[@curtisjudd]

This is a bridging impedance situation. Yes it works. This is almost always the case these days with modern preamplifiers. The idea is that if the input impedance of the preamp is 10x or more that of the output impedance of the mic, all is well.

[@jimihindrix7977]

Thanks Curtis for this very fast answer. I have another question. I want to connect two microphones to this Tascam in the XLR inputs (SM85). The output of the box will be connected to an audio input of a camcorder (sony HDR-XR550V). Should I use the # camera out # or # the camera In # of the Tascam to connect to the audio input of my camcorder? how about the output impedance, Does it match the sony's input impedance? Depending on your answer, wich output I have to use, what is the second output for?

[@curtisjudd]

Hi Karim, you would use the Camera Out to run a line to your camcorder. The impedances should be find as this is what they were designed for. Best wishes!

[@jimihindrix7977]

Thanks. Happy new year 2018! I am watching your videos and I appreciate a lot. Thanks again.

[@lorenvieramedia]

what mounting bracket is that that you have everything attached to?

[@curtisjudd]

+Loren Viera that's the Fhugen Honu 2.0 camera cage for Panasonic GH4: kzbin.info/www/bejne/faeZnYmdm5Wojq8

[@puertafilms]

I plugged a rode video mic pro directly into the 3-4 connection using the 3.5mm jack but I'm unable to record. Is there any specific setting I need to modify in order to select that input?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, in the Rec Mode Menu, set the Rec Mode to Stereo and the Source to Ch 3/4. Good luck!

[@KBFilms2]

im getting alot of hiss and echo from mine, any explanation?

[@curtisjudd]

Things to check: The microphone, the cable, nearby EMF or RF interference. Which microphone are you using?

[@KBFilms2]

I hear the hissing even when I unplug my mic . I'm using the ntg2 thanks for the response

[@curtisjudd]

@@KBFilms2 Gain setting? How far from the microphone are you positioned? Any sound/noise sources in the room - fans, compressors, heating/AC, etc?

[@stevendelopoulos]

Im a bit green , but looking to possibly buy the DR 60 Dmk 2, My question is why would you need to plug directly in the dslr ? Would it be to sink with the slate button ? I have a road mic pro on my 5d mark 3 , would I plug the road directly into the tascam ? And use the road on my dslr and xlr a shotgun mic simultaneously ? Thank you for this great video.

[@curtisjudd]

+Steven Delopoulos I usually do not connect the Tascam to my camera. I record with an XLR microphone to the Tascam, record audio with the built-in mic on my camera and then sync them together in post production. You could use your VideoMic Pro on your camera just to record better reference sound which you would use for syncing in post to the better quality sound recorded by your XLR mic and Tascam. Good luck!

[@ceeskrommenhoek479]

Tnx for your clear explanation! What are the remote possibilities?

[@curtisjudd]

No remote, as far as I'm aware.

[@theslimeylimey]

Excellent review. No fluff just clear well presented needed info which i appreciate.

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks!

[@sebastianciho]

Another thing about the Tascam dr 60 mk II: I have encountered case where the preamps of the tascam set on mid gain, would give weird results. Used up 35-40 the gain is ok, once you go above 40-45 the level is affect in abrupt way, increasing level and noise floor very much all of a sudden. It seems that external preamp or mixer is mandatory if you are in a situation with a lot of loud and quiet switches, where you need adjust levels constant :(

[@curtisjudd]

Hmm, I have not experience this. When you say 35-40 gain, are you adjusting the gain setting in the menu or the potentiometer knob?

[@sebastianciho]

Pot knob, the gain inside the menu was set on the mid setting. 35-40% course, that being just shy before a 11`a clock position. After that, the gain stage would pop up 6-9dB, regarding the mic used (me66/k6 - internal 1.5v used for phantom, nt5 rode, akg c480b with ck 63 or 61 capsule, shure sm57). I think this happening because it is not a linear fader (as you have mentioned in one of you're videos - that digital stepping) My guess is that fast correction on the rotary encoders are not perceived very well by the software and interface.. and leads to this kind of behavio . On line in setting, with a feed coming from a mixer, this is not happening!

[@curtisjudd]

Good info, thank you.

[@MisterWealth]

Can anyone explain why when in recording the audio levels are almost non existent? They're so low but I have the dials maxed out. The gain is set to low, because someone the noise sound will be too much if I up the gain. Is this true? How can I make audio louder? I've tried 4 different mics they're all too low when recording through this.

[@curtisjudd]

Hi MisterWealth, which microphone(s) are you using? Have you turned on phantom power for those which require it? You can safely use mid or high gain levels on this recorder.

[@MisterWealth]

@@curtisjudd Samson q2u

[@curtisjudd]

@@MisterWealth Yes, you're going to need to increase the gain to high. Also, ideally should be 3-4 inches from the grill on the mic. Good luck!

[@MisterWealth]

@@curtisjudd wont gain also increase the static sound alot more?

[@curtisjudd]

@@MisterWealth It should not. The DR-60DmkII is designed to work with the gain at all of the settings. The highest gain setting will have a tiny bit more self noise, but the high setting should be fine. Give it a try. You won't hurt anything.

[@robtarry]

Thanks for this! One kinda obscure question I have about the DR60mkII - why the different gain menu settings (lo med hi hi+) as well as the adjustable gain knob? I guess what i mean is, if you set it to Med in the menu, but then crank the gain knob aren't you in "hi+" territory? What's the best practise - set the 'menu-gain' setting that gives you the lowest noise then adjust with the knobs? Apologies if this is a total newbie question.

[@curtisjudd]

Think of the knobs as trim or fine adjustments. You first set the gain in menu and then use the knobs to fine tune things. Ideally set the gain with the knob at its center setting as a start.

[@robtarry]

@@curtisjudd amazing, so helpful and clear. Thanks a million!

[@stephencullen441]

Would this work for record vocal and video? What is the primary difference between Marantz PMD-602A 2-channel DSLR Audio Interface and this unit? Thank you.

[@curtisjudd]

The main difference is that this is a recorder which can also send audio to your camera at the same time. The Marantz is just a preamp to which you can attach XLR microphones and then feed the audio to your camera. It does NOT record.

[@Shauny_D]

Does this also work as a computer audio interface via the usb?

[@curtisjudd]

Unfortunately no. But the Zoom H6 and H5 and H4n Pro do.

[@rainy2324]

I am new new to sound gear, and I am a bit confused as to this unit having 4 channels. How does the 3/4 count as two?

[@curtisjudd]

3/4 is a stereo input with a left and right channel.

[@rainy2324]

@@curtisjudd thank you for this! Take care!

[@showreel2]

GAIN on MID REC LEVEL DIALS up just under half way/ K6 ME66. is that ok for boom? or is it better GAIN on LOW and dials up higher. I find it slightly louder with it being MID

[@showreel2]

+showreel2 and it DUAL MONO

[@curtisjudd]

+showreel2 Yes, mid is almost always what I use.

[@astralaudio101]

Excellent review. It would be great to see your list of Films you have worked on.. cheers 🙏

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Cameron. Here are a couple of shorts I worked on. But most of my work is on corporate internal training and marketing videos for my day job. The Music Maker: kzbin.info/www/bejne/paHbpWibp7KHpLc Listen: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fKm9aGiDg62HZqc Homeless: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nGe7pXqMiM6Vd5o The Army Nurse (I only did production sound and foley recording on this one): kzbin.info/www/bejne/hnXGg3qVodSge6M

[@JullianFioriti]

Great vid, complete, straight to the point, thanks a lot from France!

[@curtisjudd]

Thanks Julian!

[@severancepro]

I was wondering if you could use this device as an audio interface for a PC.... I have a +48v mic I would like to use for some VO work in premier but also need a stand alone recorder.

[@curtisjudd]

Unfortunately it doesn't, but most of Zoom's recorders do. Here's an overview of several including the H4n Pro, H5, H6 (each of which CAN be used as an audio interface or stand-alone recorder). Of course they have their downsides as well, but that's explained here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoPHXqGQfKyGrJY I hope that helps!

[@GabrielsLogic]

how does it save recodrings? through an sd card?

[@curtisjudd]

Yes, to an SD card.

[@GabrielsLogic]

@@curtisjudd thanks so much for the quick response! Loved your new video on the deity mic. Keep up the great work 😃

[@brendanoconnor8522]

Great review! My main consideration (besides budget and portability!) is that i can independently control phantom power on each input as I have a condenser mic and a ribbon mic (which could be damaged with phantom power). From my research, most recorders within my price range have an all-or-none control with the phantom power. Any insight you can provide would be greatly appreciated. I am recording a wide variety of sources so I'd like to be as flexible as possible. Thanks!

[@curtisjudd]

Good news! The DR60D has separate phantom power switches for each of the XLR inputs so you can power your condenser mic and keep your ribbon safe at the same time.

[@georgesoutham]

Is the tascam dr60d mk2 good for recording nature sounds outdoors thunder rain and wind sounds

[@curtisjudd]

Hi George, it is ok for this with the right microphones, yes. Do you have particular microphones in mind?

[@georgesoutham]

@@curtisjudd AKG

[@curtisjudd]

@@georgesoutham Ok, thanks. I would say for the $200 USD price, it is about as good as you'll get for XLR based microphones.

[@AirsoftReviewerHD]

I deciding between this and the Zoom H6. The price differs but do you think the sacrifice of build quality and battery is worth the MK II?

[@curtisjudd]

That's a tough one - they are in different leagues in terms of price as you know. I like the amount of gain and the clean preamps on the Tascam recorders. If the number of inputs is a concern, the Tascam DR-70D has 4 XLR inputs and may be a good choice. But you can't beat the battery life of the Zoom. The only way to rival that with a Tascam is with an external USB battery. The screen on the Zoom doesn't work well outdoors while the Tascam screens do well outdoors. As you can probably tell, I'm biased toward the Tascam recorders. :-) But there are plenty of people that are quite happy with their Zoom H6 recorders, so I guess go with what your intuition tells you. They're both pretty decent for non-pro recorders.

[@AirsoftReviewerHD]

Curtis Judd Alright thanks! I am leaning more towards the Tascam now. I love the features of the Zoom but for $200 more I do not think only better battery life is worth that. (Especially since you can get a USB one). My only concern, is the build quality of the DR-60 MK II. Is it a cheap plastic that is at a big risk of cracking? Thanks for the response!

[@curtisjudd]

AirsoftReviewerHD I would call the case a quality plastic. It is not the quality of something like an extruded aluminum Sound Devices mixer and probably at more risk of cracking than the Zoom H6 if you drop it, but not likely to fall apart with reasonable care. Just don't huck it into a bag full of other metal and and heavy gear and it should be fine for several years of use. :)

[@this_time_imperfect]

I’ve had the Mk2 for a couple years now and before that I used the Mk1 since the year it came out. The only issue I’ve had is that the headphone jack has a terrible amount of noise.

[@curtisjudd]

👍