The Tascam Model 12 is a combination of a real multitrack recorder, mixing console and audio interface for rehearsals, live performances or productions. The intuitive design does not pose any major hurdles for beginners and impresses with many practical functions for almost any application. In addition to ample connections for instruments and recordings, the user has various tools at his disposal to be optimally prepared for the respective situation: 1-button compressor, 3-band EQs, depth filters, 60mm faders, recording options in recompressed 44.1/48 kHz, 16/24 bit format and much more - easily visible and quickly accessible.
Anyone who needs a high-quality all-rounder for modern productions is well served by this.
The new firmware for the Tascam Model 12 allows up to 10 phrases per song to be marked and repeated at will (vamp playback). This makes it easier to rehearse these passages or to adapt the backing track to the live situation in a versatile way. In addition, the metronome tempo can now be changed with an audible click, the click can be adjusted in 3 volume levels and a 4-bar count-in has been integrated.
Firmware 1.11 also introduced a continuously adjustable output delay of 1 - 2000ms. What you need that for: Namely, to get a straightforward handle on the inevitable synchronisation problems between image and sound in a live application. Whether you are streaming or recording on a computer or using a separate video encoder, the Model 12 can help. The output delay can be switched to either the USB output, the hardware output or both.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional - the design of the Tascam Model 12 is clear and intuitive and guarantees a short familiarisation phase. All controls are located on the top of the console for quick and easy access. 60 mm faders allow precise level adjustments, while the built-in EQs serve to "clean up" or refine the sound image. Even the input and output connectors can be conveniently reached from the top edge, so you don't have to leave your post when checking and wiring.
Model 12 allows the use of SD cards, with which you can record 16 tracks simultaneously in 24-bit and 48 kHZ format. 8 of the available tracks also allow punch-ins and punch-outs. The 10 built-in, high-quality Tascam microphone preamps ensure the best possible, undistorted sound. But it's not just the recording that plays a major role: thanks to Tascam's recording technology, 12 tracks can be played back simultaneously from an SD card.
The user has a total of 14 versatile analogue inputs, consisting of 12 balanced inputs (eight mono and two stereo) and one unbalanced stereo input. In addition, there is a USB port for connecting the console to your favourite DAW. It can also be paired with smartphones via Bluetooth to stream music for rehearsals, for example, or to get the audience in the mood before the show starts.
The mixer's summing section is designed for quick, intuitive use during live performance and recording, and features a built-in effects processor in addition to the first-class 60mm faders for the stereo sum, both monitor paths, and the subgroup with mute and assign. This allows you to add reverb, delay, chorus, flanger and other effects to one or more source signals and the sum. In addition, an assignable four-band EQ (stereo sum or monitor path) provides the necessary fine tuning.
Even though the Model 12 is a lightweight, it is and always will be a rugged companion designed for the rough and tumble of live performance. Whether in the studio, rehearsal room or performance venue, this mixer can handle it all.
Mixer:
Recorder
Audio interface
Other features
Cover not included in delivery!
I've been working with the Model 12 for about a month now and am really impressed with how flexible it is, and how simple Tascam have kept the interface. It also sounds nice and clean, with perfectly usable channel compression and FX which I mainly use to add a touch of atmosphere to my synth patches.
Haven't used it in a live situation as yet but it feels rugged and has been steady as a rock so far so I'm sure it'll perform well out of the studio too.
For those interested I've been using it as an interface for my MPC One in addition to using it with the Mac and it's been really simple and solid.
As I’m typical home studio artist this is something that I was looking for. I was using one of the first integrated/DAW consoles but it was just too big for what I do. Recording and mixing on M12 is great. Integration with DAW was smooth too. I’m looking forward to explore more ways to integrate it within my projects. Great piece of gear!!
I've been recording for years and have used lots of different levels of equipment. The build quality of this is top notch and sound quality is great. Slightly awkward digital interface but totally learnable.