Contents

IMPORTANT SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Safety Information
1 Introduction
- Features
- Included items
- Conventions used in this manual
- Trademarks and copyrights
- Precautions for placement and use
- Beware of condensation
- Cleaning the unit
- About SD cards
  - Precautions for use
- Using the TEAC Global Site
- Product registration
- About TASCAM customer support service
2 Names and functions of parts
- Front panel
  - Behind front cover
- Rear panel
- Home Screen
- Recording screen
- Menu structure
- Basic Menu Screen operations
  - Menu operation procedures
- Basic operation
3 Preparation
- Connecting other equipment
- Powering the unit
  - Power sources
  - Using an AC adapter
  - Using AA batteries
- Turning the power on and off (putting it in standby)
  - Turning the unit on
  - Turning the unit off (putting it in standby)
  - Resume function
- Setting the date and time
- Inserting and removing SD cards
  - Inserting the card
  - Removing the card
  - SD card write protection switches
- Preparing an SD card for use
- Setting the key lock function
4 Recording
- Setting where to save files
- Opening the INPUT 1-2 and INPUT 3-4 screens
- Opening the REC SETTING screen
- Setting the recording input sources
- Adjusting the input level
- Setting the low-cut filter
- Setting phantom power
- Using the Level Control Function
- Setting the file format and sampling frequency
- Recording (MONO/STEREO/4ch)
  - Starting recording
  - File names when recording in MONO/STEREO
  - File names when recording 4 channels
- Recording the moment before pushing RECORD (PRE REC)
- Creating a new file while continuing to record (file splitting)
  - Splitting files manually while recording
  - Splitting files automatically at set times while recording
- Starting recording automatically (AUTO REC)
  - Setting the automatic recording function
  - Recording using the automatic recording function
- Using mark functions
  - Adding marks manually to a recording
  - Adding marks automatically when recording
  - Moving to a mark position
- Simultaneously recording two files at different input levels (DUAL REC)
  - Enabling dual recording
  - Starting dual recording
  - Dual recording file names
- Recording duration
5 Working with Folders and Files (BROWSE screen)
- Opening the BROWSE screen
- Screen navigation
- Icons on the BROWSE screen
- Folder operations
- File operations
- Creating new folders
- Playlist
  - Adding files to the playlist
  - Editing the playlist
6 Playback
- Opening the PLAY SETTING screen
- Playback area
  - Setting the playback area
  - Using the BROWSE screen to select the playback area folder (1)
  - Using the BROWSE screen to select the playback area folder (2)
- Playing files
  - Pausing playback
  - Stopping playback
  - Rewinding and fast-forwarding (search)
- Selecting files for playback (skipping)
- Changing the playback speed (VARI SPEED)
- Setting the play mode
- Repeating playback
- Jumping back a few seconds and replaying (jumpback playback)
7 Settings and Information
- Dividing a selected file manually (DIVIDE)
- Setting the file name format
  - Setting the WORD item
  - Resetting the count (COUNT INIT)
- Show media information
- Restoring factory default settings
- Formatting SD cards
- Setting the output level
- Make system settings
  - Setting the type of batteries
  - Set the automatic power saving function
  - Setting the backlight
  - Adjusting the display contrast
- Viewing system information
8 Using the REMOTE jack
- Using a footswitch (TASCAM RC-3F)
  - Setting up the footswitch
  - Using the footswitch
- Using a remote control (TASCAM RC-10)
  - Setting up a wired remote control
  - Using the wired remote control
9 Messages
10 Troubleshooting
11 Specifications
- Ratings
- Input/output ratings
  - Analog audio input and output ratings
  - Control input/output
- Audio performance
- General
- Dimensional drawings

Tascam SD-20M Owner's Manual

Pages 44

Year 0

Language(s)

of 44

Tascam SD-20M Specification

The Tascam SD-20M is a versatile, rack-mounted solid-state recorder designed for professional audio applications, offering a comprehensive set of features tailored for high-quality sound capture and playback. It supports recording directly onto SD/SDHC cards with capacities up to 128GB, providing ample space for extended recording sessions. The device records in WAV and MP3 formats, allowing for flexibility in audio quality and file size management. Equipped with dual microphone preamps, the SD-20M offers phantom power support, catering to both dynamic and condenser microphones, while its XLR and TRS combo inputs ensure compatibility with a wide range of audio equipment.

The SD-20M features a four-track recording capability, enabling simultaneous recording of multiple audio sources. Its built-in stereo microphone facilitates quick and easy on-the-go recordings, while the analog limiter and low-cut filter enhance audio clarity by minimizing distortion and eliminating unwanted low-frequency noise. The recorder's front-panel controls are intuitively designed for efficient operation, and the bright, easy-to-read OLED display provides clear visibility of recording settings and levels.

For connectivity, the SD-20M includes unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR outputs, making it adaptable to various sound systems. The unit also supports remote control via a footswitch or the optional RC-3F footswitch, allowing for hands-free operation during performances or presentations. Additionally, the SD-20M offers a relay recording function, enabling seamless transition from one SD card to another for uninterrupted recording. Its rugged 1U rackmount design ensures durability and easy integration into professional audio setups, making it an ideal solution for live events, installations, and studio environments where reliability and sound quality are paramount.

Tascam SD-20M F.A.Q.

How do I set up the Tascam SD-20M for the first time?

To set up the Tascam SD-20M, connect it to a power source using the included AC adapter, then connect your audio inputs and outputs. Power on the device and format an SD card using the built-in menu system.

What should I do if the SD card is not recognized by the SD-20M?

Ensure the SD card is properly inserted and formatted correctly. If the issue persists, try using a different SD card or reformatting the current card using a computer.

How can I improve the recording quality on the Tascam SD-20M?

To improve recording quality, ensure you are using high-quality cables and microphones. Adjust the input levels on the SD-20M so that the signal is strong but not clipping. Consider using a quieter environment to minimize background noise.

What is the maximum supported SD card size for the SD-20M?

The Tascam SD-20M supports SD cards up to 128GB. Ensure the SD card is formatted to FAT32 for compatibility.

How do I perform a firmware update on the SD-20M?

To update the firmware, download the latest firmware file from the Tascam website, copy it to an SD card, and insert the card into the SD-20M. Follow the menu prompts to complete the update.

What maintenance is required for the Tascam SD-20M?

Regularly check and clean the SD card slot and input/output jacks to prevent dust accumulation. Keep the device in a dry, cool place when not in use. Periodically check for firmware updates.

How can I transfer recordings from the SD-20M to a computer?

Remove the SD card from the SD-20M and insert it into a card reader connected to your computer. You can then copy the audio files directly from the SD card to your computer.

What should I do if the recorded audio has distortion or noise?

Check the input levels to ensure they are not too high, which can cause distortion. Also, inspect your cables and connections for any damage or interference.

Can I use the Tascam SD-20M for live performances?

Yes, the SD-20M can be used for live performances. It offers reliable recording capabilities suitable for capturing live audio directly from mixers or microphones.

How do I delete recordings on the Tascam SD-20M?

Navigate to the file management section in the menu, select the files you wish to delete, and confirm the deletion. Ensure important files are backed up before deletion.