The Legendary 144 Portastudio Multitrack (MTR) Cassette Recorder

As featured in Springsteen: Deliver me from Nowhere
— The DNA of the home studio recorder used on Bruce Springsteen's 'Nebraska' album lives on in TASCAM multitrack recorders

From the film, 'Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere'

The Unique Sound Only Captured by the TEAC 144 PORTASTUDIO

In 1979, TEAC launched the groundbreaking TEAC 144 PORTASTUDIO—the world's first four-track multitrack recorder using a standard cassette tape. Compact yet high-quality and affordable for individuals, the arrival of the "144" transformed music production from an exclusive experience reserved for professional studios into one accessible to everyone. Its innovation earned accolades from publications such as Billboard and Pro Sound News, calling it "the most revolutionary product in history."

At launch, the price was $899. While only weighing about 9 kg, the portable unit packed features such as multitrack recording, overdubbing, equalization, and ping-pong recording.

Bruce Springsteen's 1982 album, Nebraska, was recorded at home using his 144. This work demonstrated new possibilities for music creation and left a lasting impact on popular music history worldwide.

Evolving with Its Inherited DNA: TASCAM Multitrack Recorders Today

The TEAC 144 evolved into TASCAM's PORTASTUDIO series of portable multitrack recorders, supporting musicians' creativity through the decades.

Nearly 40 years after the debut of the 144, TASCAM introduced the Model Series in 2018—a "multitrack live recording mixer" that blends modern technology with classic appeal.

TASCAM Model Series Recording Mixers

The Model Series combines a multitrack recorder, mixer, and audio interface, meeting the needs of today’s music industry across rehearsals, live shows, and music production.

Among them, the Model 12, released in 2020, is a compact, multifunctional mixer designed as a desktop tool for multimedia creators. This 12‑track recording mixer, DAW controller, and USB audio interface integrates TASCAM’s renowned multitrack recording features. In addition to its USB audio/MIDI interface and DAW control capabilities, it offers unique functions such as a mix‑minus feature for podcast production and a smartphone input that enables participation in talk shows via mobile devices. The Model 12 inspires creativity and covers every workflow—from production to live performance, including podcast creation—all in a single unit.

Model 12
12-Track Digital Recording Mixer with DAW Controller & Audio Interface

Released in 2020, this compact, multifunctional mixer designed as a desktop tool for multimedia creators. It integrates TASCAM's renowned multitrack recording capabilities with USB audio/MIDI interface, DAW control, and unique features like mix-minus for podcast production and smartphone input for remote talk participation. The Model 12 inspires creativity and covers workflows from production to live performance—including podcasting—all in one unit.

Model 12 Product Page

Model 16
16-Track Live Recorder & Mixing Console with Audio Interface

Offers a rack-mountable compact body, combining the warmth of analog sound with digital workflow features. Ideal for small-scale live performances, recording, and rehearsal studios, it functions as both a multitrack recorder and USB audio interface, with Bluetooth® wireless playback support.

Model 16 Product Page

Model 24
24-Track Live Recorder & Mixing Console with Audio Interface

Expands possibilities with a 24-track digital multitrack recorder, 24-channel USB audio interface, and 22-channel analog mixer—perfect for both stage and studio.

Model 24 Product Page

Model 2400
24-Track Flagship Analog Recording Console & Live Mixer with Audio Interface

Serves as the flagship model, featuring 22-channel input and 24-track recording, suitable for home recording, studios, and small PA/SR systems.

Model 2400 Product Page

Studio Bridge
24-Track Recorder and USB Audio Interface with MIDI

Seamlessly connects analog and digital equipment, preserving analog warmth while enabling recording to its built-in 24-track recorder or DAW. It also allows mixing multitrack sources through an analog console, supporting diverse recording needs in home studios or live environments.

Studio Bridge Product Page

Film: Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere

From 20th Century Studios, the team behind Bohemian Rhapsody, comes the story of Bruce Springsteen on the eve of Born in the U.S.A.

1982. At a crossroads in his career, Springsteen wrestled with deep loneliness and inner conflict behind the façade of fame. Leaving the chaos of rock stardom, he retreated to a desolate “nowhere.” Armed with only a four-track recorder and fragments of unfinished songs, he began quietly etching his soul—haunted by memories of his lover, childhood moments with his mother, and a strained relationship with his father. What happened during those nights?

The legendary album Nebraska—its creative process and emotional journey—comes to life through Jeremy Allen White (The Bear), delivering a performance of few words yet immense presence. Directed by Scott Cooper (Crazy Heart, Academy Award® winner), the film captures the stark American landscape, voices etched on tape, and prayers for salvation. What was born—and what was broken—that night? A time when a rock icon stripped everything away to face his true self, inviting us to reflect on our own lives today.

Official Website: https://www.springsteenmovie.me/

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