The Tascam Portacapture X8 is a highly versatile portable 6+2-track audio recorder with a clear touchscreen, USB audio interface, and two detachable condenser microphones.

The Portacapture X8 user interface is straightforward. Immediately after setting up the device, the Launcher mode allows you to select the best audio settings for your purpose. Using presets leaves more time to focus on the recording itself. However, if you prefer to adjust everything manually, you can do so in MANUAL mode. The Recording Guide assists with the required settings if desired.

The Portacapture X8 offers preset level control using high-quality A/D converters and 32-bit recording technology. This achieves uncompromising sound quality even in low volume recordings. Later, when editing the audio data, you can increase the volume without degrading the signal-to-noise ratio. Additionally, the internal normalization automatically balances the stereo mix volume after recording.

Driverless plug-and-go functionality and built-in microphones enable the Portacapture X8 to be used as a compact mixer for live streaming via OBS or similar platforms. You can also record audio tracks directly to video footage for DAW and editing software.

The Portacapture X8 streams up to 8 channels (six inputs + stereo mix) via USB. Through the USB-C connection, the recorder supports an external phantom-powered microphone via USB bus power. In conference calls, the Portacapture X8 functions as a USB stereo microphone and can also record audio simultaneously.

The Portacapture X8 includes two high-quality condenser microphones. Thanks to the detachable mechanism, both L and R microphones can be flexibly connected or removed from the unit in A-B or X-Y configurations.

With the separately sold AK-BT1 Bluetooth adapter, the Portacapture X8 can be remotely controlled with a smartphone or tablet using the free iOS- and Android-compatible Portacapture Control app. This allows, for example, recording nature sounds without coat rustling or handling noises affecting the recording.

The Timecode Sync included in the update makes post-editing significantly easier by allowing recordings to be arranged chronologically. Wireless timecode sync works with Atomos AtomX Sync, UltraSync Blue, and other compatible products*, such as Atomos Connect and Shogun Connect.

The recorder has lockable XLR/TRS combo inputs for microphone and line-level signals. Thanks to the 3.5mm input and output, you can connect a camera or other audio device. Naturally, the recorder also features a headphone output.

Weighing under 500 grams, the Portacapture X8 can be connected directly to a DSLR, camera, or AV devices via a cold shoe adapter. You can also mount it on microphone stands or wireless receivers.

(*Check compatible products on the Atomos website https://cloud.atomos.com/)

Features:

• High-resolution PCM audio recorder
• 3.5″ color touchscreen
• 192 kHz / 32-bit resolution
• Intuitive launcher system for preset configuration (6 recording modes: MANUAL, VOICE, PODCAST, MUSIC, FIELD, ASMR)
• Two detachable 14.6mm condenser microphones (A-B, X-Y)
• Built-in USB audio interface (8 inputs / 2 outputs): Microphones can be used as USB audio sources; signals received via USB can be recorded to an SD card
• 4 x mic/line inputs (XLR/TRS combo)
• Phantom power (24 V / 48 V)
• Multichannel recording for up to eight channels (6 tracks + stereo mix)
• MS decoder, reverb
• Pre-recording, Auto-recording, Dual-recording
• Slate-Tone: can be added automatically or manually
• Built-in mixer with audio processing including EQ, low-pass filter, compressor, limiter, auto gain control, noise gate, etc.
• Camera/line input with selectable attenuation
• Audio monitoring via headphone jack or built-in speaker
• Wireless remote control via mobile device with separately sold AK-BT1 adapter
• Micro SD support (up to 512 GB)
• Power supply: 4 x AA batteries or separately sold Tascam power supply (PS-P520U)