recorders

[almeriastrings]

IIRC the 4 tracks (2 stereo) also drift from each other.

I have been using Tascam recorders since the original DR-100 came out and have used multiple models over the years since in various roles. Must have handled countless hundreds of tracks/samples. This has never happened. Not once. I would certainly have noticed it...

[treidm]

I think he is referring to syncing to videos in really long recordings.
In most normal situations I don't think it will matter or come into play

If you are doing really serious long video recordings, you most likely will have a much nicer and expensive recorder
And they can be very complicated to operate

We were discussing small affordable recorders that are easy to operate
Many to choose from. I like Tascam DR-40. Many others to choose from. Most are similar.
Need to take time and make all parameter adjustments, then it's very simple to operate with the push of just a few buttons...
, Reid

[almeriastrings]

If you are doing really serious long video recordings, you most likely will have a much nicer and expensive recorder
And they can be very complicated to operate

Totally agree minor drift is completely irrelevant for recording jams, typical musical takes, etc. It only becomes an issue in longer video takes.

I don't really agree that the higher end pro recorders are complicated to operate, however. Most are very straightforward. I use the Zoom F4/F8 and the Sound Devices 633 and both are really clear and easy - actually easier than some of the lower end devices as they use hardware switching for most routine things, rather than having to delve into layered menus. Especially the 633....

[treidm]

Totally agree minor drift is completely irrelevant for recording jams, typical musical takes, etc. It only becomes an issue in longer video takes.

I don't really agree that the higher end pro recorders are complicated to operate, however. Most are very straightforward. I use the Zoom F4/F8 and the Sound Devices 633 and both are really clear and easy - actually easier than some of the lower end devices as they use hardware switching for most routine things, rather than having to delve into layered menus. Especially the 633....

I personally do not find them more complicated as you don't but a person just starting out may find it overwhelming with all the adjustments that can be made, even if it's not menu based.

It's never hard if you know how...

I've evolved from 2-track cassette, then 4-track cassette, Reel to Reel and so on up through modern digital recording. Many are just starting now though and it's all new to them.

Heck, I still use an ADAT recorder, which is truly easy recording. no adjustments, just straight 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz, 16 or 20 bit, 8-track recording. Basic buttons and that's it. And really high, consistent, quality recordings. It's basically like recording to 1/2" tape, but in digital and allowing easier editing, unlike analog which is harder to edit..