
DR-40
Handheld 4-track Recorder
This model has been discontinued in North, Central and South America.
Please check the availability with your local distributors in other areas.
It has been replaced with the DR-40X.
TASCAM DR-40 captures up to four tracks from built-in, high-quality condenser microphones, XLR mic or line inputs. The internal mics are adjustable from XY to AB position, helping you to tailor your recording to the sound of the room, while a pair of great-sounding TASCAM microphone preamps are ideal for condenser microphones with phantom power, recording at up to 96kHz/24-bit resolution.
The adjustable Mics, four-track recording and extended battery life of the DR-40 give you the flexibility you need to record tracks anywhere.
This model has been discontinued in North, Central and South America.
Please check the availability with your local distributors in other areas.
It has been replaced with the DR-40X.
XLR Mic Inputs Combine with Built-In Mics for Dynamic Studio and Live Recording
The DR-40 accommodates balanced XLR or 1/4" line inputs using locking Neutrik Combo jacks. The DR-40 accepts SD or SDHC cards up to 32GB, and a 2GB card is included.
Once recorded, play back your takes with EQ and the optional Level Align feature to avoid volume jumps. Stereo reverb is also built-in, as well as a speaker and chromatic tuner. Transfer recordings to computer using the USB 2.0 jack. Other features include overdub mode, variable speed playback, limiting and low cut filter, and much more – all with TASCAM's simple-to-use interface. No other recorder makes home or live recording as simple as the TASCAM DR-40.
"DR-05", "DR-07MK2" and our brand new "DR-40" Linear PCM Recorders are part of TASCAM's handheld recorders. Select a model based on your functional needs.

High-quality Microphones for A-B/X-Y recordings
High-quality unidirectional stereo condenser microphones that can record in both A-B and X-Y positions according to the situation
Another handy additions include a tripod mount on its back and a chromatic tuner for musicians.

Proven high sound pressure design for capturing loud sounds of up to 125dB SPL, making it ideal for loud band recordings

MS decoding function making it possible to use M-S stereo microphones
*M-S type microphone is not included.
Versatile recording functions
Peak reduction function that detects peaks and automatically sets the optimal level
Peak reduction | When a peak is detected, the input signal level is automatically lowered and recording continues. It is perfect for music recordings that have variation in volume, which can be difficult to listen to.![]() |
Auto level | The input signal level is automatically adjusted according to the input sound volume. This is perfect for recording meetings. |
Limiter | Prevents distortion of excessively high input signals. |
4-channel mode that can be used for dual recording and nondestructive overdub recording, etc.
Dual Recording Mode |
The same sound source can be recorded at two different levels. This gives you a safety stereo track you can use in case the main recording is distorted.. ![]() Dual Recording records a second copy of your performance up to -12dB lower as a safety track. This mean if your recording gets accidentally distorted, you'll have a backup copy that isn't distorted. ![]() |
4CH Mode |
Two different stereo materials can be recorded simultaneously. Combination of the sources is flexible, recording the built-in microphones along with a pair of external Mics, like close-up and ambient microphones, or recording the built-in Mics along with a balanced line input, such as the feed from a mixer along with the sound in the room.. ![]() |
Overdubbing Mode |
A new sound source can be recorded as a separate channel while listening to a pre-recorded sound source. This is perfect for music production or song demo. ![]() |
Flexible playback functions
Tempo change (VSA) function for adjusting the speed from 0.5 to 1.5 times (in 0.1 increments), which is great for practicing music and language study

Level align feature prevents uneven volume levels for enhanced listenability

More useful playback features
More professinal-grade features and Expandability
Locking XLR/TRS inputs compatible with +4dBu line level / +48V phantom power


Optional RC-3F foot switch and RC-10 wired remote control can be connected
More optional accessories are shown below section.

MODE | Foot Switch | ||
L | C | R | |
PLAY | REW | PLAY/ STOP |
FWD |
RECORD1 | STOP | REC/ PAUSE |
INC |
RECORD2 | STOP | REC/ PAUSE |
MARK |
MINUTES | FLASH | PLAY/ STOP |
SPEED CHANGE |

MODE | Function | |||
F1 | F2 | F3 | F4 | |
1/2 [SOLO] |
3/4 [SOLO] |
INPUT VOL+ |
INPUT VOL- |
- Reverb effect for vocal and instrument resonance
- Auto recording function that can detect the sound input signal level and automatically start recording
- Equalizer setting for adjusting playback sound quality
- Divide/delete functions make it easy to organize files after recording
- Loop/repeat playback function that is convention for practicing music and studying languages
- Self timer recording function that is helpful for recording your own musical performances
- Three low cut filter levels that cut unnecessary low frequency noise such as from air conditioning equipment
Options





Features at a Glance
- Unidirectional stereo condenser microphones that can record in A-B and X-Y positions
- XLR/TRS inputs compatible with +4dBu line level / +48V
- 4-channel mode that can be used for dual recording and nondestructive overdub recording, etc.
- MS decoding function making it possible to use M-S microphones
- Optional RC-3F foot switch and RC-10 wired remote control can be connected
- Long-time operation of over 20 hours is possible using just the internal batteries
- Reverb effect
- Auto recording function that can detect the sound input signal level and automatically start recording
- Proven high sound pressure design for capturing loud sounds of up to 125dB SPL
- Peak reduction function that detects peaks and automatically sets the optimal level
- Self timer recording function
- Seamless gain control
- Low-cut filter with three levels (40/80/120Hz)
- Speed change (VSA) function for adjusting the speed from 0.5 to 1.5 times (in 0.1 increments), which is great for practicing music and language study
- Level align feature that prevents uneven volume levels
- Equalizer setting for adjusting playback sound quality
- Divide/delete functions
- Loop/repeat playback function that is convention for practicing music and studying languages
- Resume function that retains the last stop position and starts playback from that position when power is turned back ON
- Jump-back playback function that skips back a preset number of seconds during playback
- QUICK menu button for easy access to various functions
- High-quality 24-bit/96kHz WAV/BWF linear PCM recording and long recordings as MP3 files possible
- SD/SDHC cards can be used for recording media
- 2GB SD card is included
- Mark function that can set up to 99 points for a single track
- Audio files created on computers can be played (Only in formats compatible with this product)
- Built-in monaural speaker with an output of 0.3W
- Pre-recording buffer that can record up to 2 seconds prior to starting recording
- When a predetermined maximum file size is reached, a new file is created to continue recording
- Track increment creates new files at arbitrary locations during recording
- File name format can be set to use a user-defined word or the date
- The first six characters of the file name for recording can be set freely
- Playlist function
- A chromatic tuner is equipped which is helpful for practicing musical instruments
- Stereo mini headphone line output / Headphone output connector
- 128×64 pixel graphic LCD with backlight
- High-speed file transfer to a computer is possible using USB 2.0
- Powered by 2 AA batteries, USB bus power, or optional AC adapter (PS-P515U)
- Mini USB cable included
- Rubber feet for improving acoustic properties during desktop recordings are included
- Tripod attachment screw-hole built in to the unit

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Learn MoreSpec description
Recording media | SD card (64MB to 2GB), SDHC card (4GB to 32GB) |
File system | FAT16/32 |
File format | WAV, BWF, MP3 |
WAV / BWF | 44.1k/48k/96k Hz, 16/24-bit |
MP3 | |
Sampling frequency | 44.1k/48k Hz |
Bit-rate for recording | 32k/64k/96k/128k/192k/256k/320k bps |
Playback bit rate | 32k to 320kbps, VBR, ID3 tag Ver. 2.4 |
Number of channels | 4-channel (2 Stereo) |
Playback speed control (VSA) | 0.5 to 1.5 times (in 0.1 increments) * 44.1k/48k Hz only |
Built-in microphone | Unidirectional, stereo (Possible to switch between A-B/X-Y positions) |
EXT MIC/LINE IN | |
Connector | XLR/TRS combo jack (1: GND, 2: HOT, 3: COLD) |
Input impedance | 2.2kΩ (MIC) / 10kΩ (LINE) |
Nominal input level | –19dBV (MIC) / +4dBu (LINE) |
Maximum input level | –3dBV (MIC) / +20dBu (LINE) |
PHONES/LINE OUT | |
Connector | 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo mini jack, Unbalanced |
LINE OUT | |
Output impedance | 12Ω |
Standard output level | –14dBV (10kΩ load) |
Maximum output level | +2dBV (10kΩ load) |
PHONES | |
Maximum output level | 20mW + 20mW (32Ω load) |
Built-in speakers | 0.3W, Mono |
Low-cut filter | 40/80/120 Hz |
USB | |
Connector | Mini-B type |
Format | USB2.0 HIGH SPEED |
REMOTE | 2.5mm TRS jack |
Effector | 6 presets (HALL1/2, ROOM, STUDIO, PLATE1/2) |
Chromatic tuner | C1 - B6, A4 = 435Hz - 445Hz (in 1Hz increments) |
Tripod attachment screw-hole | 1/4 inch, Tripod attachment screw-hole |
Power | 3 AA batteries, USB bus power, AC100 - 240V (Optional AC adapter) |
Power consumption | 1.7W (Max) |
Battery operation time (Playback) |
*All times are approximate. |
With alkaline batteries (Panasonic EVOLTA) |
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With Ni-MH batteries (Panasonic eneloop) |
|
Battery operation time (Recording) |
*All times are approximate. |
With alkaline batteries (Panasonic EVOLTA) |
|
With Ni-MH batteries (Panasonic eneloop) |
|
Dimensions (W×H×D) | 2.8" × 6.1" × 1,4" / 70 × 155 × 35 mm (when the microphones are in X-Y position) 3.5" × 6.1" × 1,4" / 90 × 155 × 35 mm (when the microphones are in A-B position) |
Weight | 10.05 oz. / 285 g (including batteries) 7.51 oz. / 213 g (excluding batteries) |
Accessories | microSD card, USB connection cable, 3 AA batteries for confirming operation, Owner's Manual, Warranty card |
Audio Performance
Frequency response | 20Hz to 20kHz +1dB/–3dB (Fs 44.1kHz, EXT IN to LINE OUT, JEITA) 20Hz to 22kHz +1dB/–3dB (Fs 48kHz, EXT IN to LINE OUT, JEITA) 20Hz to 40kHz +1dB/–3dB (Fs 96kHz, EXT IN to LINE OUT, JEITA) |
Distortion | 0.05% or less (Fs 44.1k/48k/96k Hz, EXT IN to LINE OUT, JEITA) |
S/N ratio | 92dB or more (Fs 44.1k/48k/96k Hz, EXT IN to LINE OUT, JEITA) |
Computer Requirements
Windows | |
CPU | Pentium 300MHz or more |
Memory | 128MB or more |
USB | USB2.0 recommended |
Macintosh | |
CPU | Power PC, iMac, G3, G4, G5 266MHz or more |
Memory | 64MB or more |
USB | USB2.0 recommended |
Supported Media / Other
SD Supported Mediadr40v2_tested_media_list_.pdf 112.9 KB
Information
Latest version info | |
Firmware | V2.51 |
- When the AUTO TONE function was set to HEAD and the HOLD switch was set to HOLD, starting recording by operating the RC-10 would result in the tone being output continuously. This has been fixed.
Manuals
Reference Manual (Deutsch) | 01-11-2018 | 1.8 MB |
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Reference Manual (português) | 01-11-2018 | 4.6 MB |
Reference Manual (Italiano) | 01-11-2018 | 2.0 MB |
Reference Manual (Français) | 01-11-2018 | 1.9 MB |
Reference Manual (Español) | 01-11-2018 | 1.8 MB |
Reference Manual (Русский) | 01-11-2018 | 1.9 MB |
Reference Manual V2.30 | 12-16-2016 | 1.8 MB |
DR-40 Owner's Manual | 09-22-2011 | 6.3 MB |
Documents
Release Notes | 06-03-2021 | 11.9 KB |
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Firmware update procedures | 11-09-2016 | 81.8 KB |
TASCAM Portable Recorder Comparison, June 2012 | 06-15-2012 | 101.6 KB |
Firmware
Firmware V2.51 | 06-03-2021 | 1.2 MB |
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Firmware V2.50 | 06-10-2019 | 1.2 MB |
Supported Media / Other
SD Supported Media | 10-31-2023 | 112.9 KB |
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FAQs
When recording with only one microphone, set the recording mode to MONO to properly terminate the input.
The DR-40 is only designed to work with balanced microphones. Do not use an unbalanced microphone with the DR-40.
You need to "unzip" the files that you download, ending in ".zip" These files are compressed by the server to make your download times as quick as possible.
On Mac OSX, double-click the file to expand it.
On Windows OS, right-click the file and "Extract All."