Like all technology, digital recording has advanced in a relatively consistent manner. First there were big, bulky and expensive hard disc recorders. They worked well but underperformed against their dying analog counterparts. Then computers came into the picture bringing along another batch of new big, bulky and expensive hardware. Surely things eventually get smaller, practical and definitely more cost effective. Today we can find dozens of pocket size recorders that perform as well as the best (and biggest) digital pieces of previous years. Sonic quality has become relatively standard finding an above decent set of results when looking at different portable alternatives across the digital spectrum. Within it, there's always that "bulk" of options usually offering good but not outstanding results at a decent but not incredible value. Then, there are those very few pieces that offer the absolute best of both. The TASCAM DP-004 sets the bar higher than ever bringing an insane set of unique (and very useful) features and amazing sonic results together at an incredible price point.

The DP-004, unlike most digital portable recorders ships with an SD card that is actually able to hold more than 25 seconds of music! The 1GB card can store a ton of recording time at high resolutions not forcing you to go out for a new memory card the second you get the unit. Great start! Also packaged with the DP-004 you'll find batteries and a USB cable making the unit ready for use once is out of the box. TASCAM offers a separate power supply for it to avoid any low battery issues when using the unit for long hauls. Unlike some digital pocket size recorders, the DP-004 isn't bundled with any specific recording or production software but its computer interface capabilities make the use of any software unnecessary to get your recorded material into a computer. Just plug it in (USB) and see the recorder pop up on your screen as a new hard drive or hardware piece. Click and drag your files for backup. That simple.

The first test came in the shape of an acoustic guitar using the unit's internal stereo microphone. I'm not really a "manual type of guy", so if you're like me this unit is perfect for you. Power up, assign a track, hit record and play away. I love it when you can figure a piece of gear out without spending any time looking at manuals or instructions. After recording a few layered acoustic guitar tracks I came to the conclusion that the DP-004 isn't just a digital stereo recorder, it's a full size digital multi track recording studio. The DP-004 offers an incredible recording feature I've never even known existed. The recorder allows you to bounce and consolidate tracks not only to other empty ones but also to tracks that have already been used giving you the possibility of recording endless stereo tracks. Revolutionary to say the least!

In terms of quality the DP-004 records pristine full range audio with no added noise or digital harshness. The guitar tracks I recorded sounded fantastic and smooth to say the least, as well as some speech and vocal tracks (ideal for classes or speaking events!). When using the recorder's mic inputs the results were as equally as impressive. Another very cool feature is the ability to set both a recording level from the unit's front panel input gain knobs as well as internally. You can also record instruments direct through the 2 ¼" mic/line inputs located on the top of the unit.

Regardless of your thoughts on portable recorders, the DP-004 will change them. TASCAM has raised the bar so high on this one the DP-004 should have a new category of its own!

With an incredible set of unique features and truly outstanding performance, TASCAM's digital multi track recorder gives DJs, musician and songwriters no valid excuse not to record music anywhere, anytime, with amazing results, at an unbelievable price.