HS-4000

4-track Broadcast Recorder

The HS-4000 is a 4-channel recorder/player purpose built for broadcasting operations.
It was developed by leveraging TASCAM’s accumulated development know-how on professional-level acoustic device development, as well as pursuing durability, operational efficiency, operability, and high-sound quality based on on-site feedback.
In addition, the HS-4000 comes equipped with functions specialized for flash starts.
Using it in conjunction with the RC-HS32PD as a remote control for flash starting will enables users to construct a flash start solution optimal for broadcasting stations.

This model has been discontinued in North, Central and South America.
Please check the availability with your local distributors in other areas.

A recorder/player for the broadcasting operations of the new tape-free generation

Unlike general consumer audio devices, the acoustic devices used in broadcasting stations require having a high sound quality and other various functions that meet the demanding requirements.
By combining together the extensive know-how and information that TASCAM has accumulated through sales and provision of after-service care for various professional-level acoustic devices, the HS-4000 was developed as a recorder/player for broadcasting operations in the new tape-free generation.

Real-time operating system (RTOS) employed to create an environment that resists viruses and other threats

The biggest issue of a multi-purpose personal computer system is not being able to connect to external networks despite establishing a file-based operation via a LAN connection in order to eliminate risks.
The safety secured by such a device adopting a real-time operating system (RTOS) will ensure the convenience inherent to file-based operations.
Furthermore, multiple external controllers can be connected simultaneously in order to ensure smooth operation at a broadcasting station that requires several external devices to be connected.

High-sound quality parts selected through numerous listening tests

The sound quality of recording and playback will also meet the demanding requirements of broadcasting settings.
Each and every part that is used a superior part that has been selected after numerous listening tests conducted at TASAM’s acoustic evaluation facilities.
In regards to the D/A converters, the Burr Brown PCM1796 was used, while a JRC NJM5532 was used for operational amplifiers.
These parts were allocated in a circuit structure that balances operational efficiency and high sound quality.
Indeed, the power supply unit that impacts sound quality heavily is also allocated in this circuit.

Specifications optimized for flash starting at broadcasting stations

The HS-4000 has been optimized for flash starts, in particular for the needs of broadcasting stations.
Using in conjunction with the designated RC-HS32PD controller will result in a compact yet high sound quality, and easy-to-use flash starting solution.
The Japanese display that was introduced as part of its Japan-based development is also a notable feature.
The flash start controller that can be easily understood by anyone will also contribute to reducing erroneous operations.

The HS-4000 was not only developed through the pursuit of quality alone.
Rather, TASCAM leveraged its know-how and researched on-site needs in order to maintain a balance between durability, operational efficiency, operability, and high sound quality.
By further specializing in the specific purpose of flash starting, the HS-4000 has become a recorder/player that meets the requirements of next generation broadcasting operations.

Specifications optimized for flash starting by broadcasters

Lightweight and compact flash starting system

Most of the flash starting systems that have been used until now have been large, so when it has been necessary to move them between studios, the work of transferring them has been extremely difficult. In contrast, a flash starting system composed of our HS-4000 and RC-HS32PD units is extremely compact, making it a worry-free choice for use in environments where portability is necessary.

Efficient flash start operation with 2x2 playback

In situations where the use of two players and a controller are necessary, a setup composed of HS-4000 and RC-HS32PD one pair is extremely efficient, particularly in terms of space, cost and operability. This setup realizes efficient operation in a variety of situations, including when you need to alternate between two sets of background music, you need to flash start effects sounds while playing background music or you need to flash start different effect sounds at the same time.

Flash start keys can display file names making them easy for anyone to use

Each RC-HS32PD flash start key has a built-in 64x64 dot matrix LCD. Since they can show file names, flash starting is as “pressing the file name.”

The playlist mode is perfect for flash starting and PPL is also supported

Since these units were developed not only for applications as recorders, but also considering operation as flash start players, a "playlist mode" is included that is an operation mode especially for flash starting. To use this mode, add the takes to be used to the playlist. You can edit the IN and OUT points and levels of each take, so this is convenient for making fine adjustments for flash starting to use after importing data.

Faders support fader-starting and have locks at 0dB

In addition to flash start keys, the RC-HS32PD has a pair of 100mm faders that support fader-starting as a form of transmission control. These enable complete 2x2 operation (with one HS-4000 functioning as two players). These faders also have physical 0dB locking mechanism.

Use in combination with an RC-900 transport controller

While using an RC-HS32PD as a remote control for flash starting, you can also use an RC-900 for control over the transport. Since these units prioritize response to the most recent command signal received, interface devices are unnecessary to connect them.

The pursuit of operational efficiency

Five operation modes that respond to the requirements of various conditions are included

The definition of "superior operability" depends on the use conditions and the operator. The HS-4000 includes five operattion modes in order to respond to various conditions and user needs.

Real-time operating system (RTOS) created to resist infection and other threats

For the operating system, we have adopted a real-time operating system (RTOS) developed for use with real-time applications. This OS can respond to various needs of broadcasters that ordinary PC-based systems are unable to handle. In addition to quick startup and speedy execution, which are crucial prerequisites, this OS also has great resistance against infection by computer viruses, which is a concern when connected to network and importing external data. Since you can connect these units to networks with peace of mind, the fundamental convenience of file-based operation has been fulfilled.

Multiple remote controllers and a variety of external controls can be used together

You are not limited to just one remote controller or other external controller, but rather you can connect and simultaneously use as many as can be connected to the unit. Since parallel control is possible while an RC-HS32PD is also connected, by keeping both controllers connected at all times, in addition to the main flash start operator, other staff can conduct flash start operations and control emergency broadcasts. These units prioritize response to the most recent command signal received. Support for RS-422 SONY P2 protocol is also standard, making connections with existing control devices easy.

Supports for Gigabit Ethernet enables flexibility and a wide-range of applications

Using a network, even more flexibility and a wider range of applications are possible. With support for 1000BASE-T Gigabit Ethernet, these units use the common file transfer protocol (FTP), which is not restricted to specific systems. As a result, you can access these units from computers running Windows, Macintosh, UNIX and many other operating systems. Files can be transferred between CF cards and computers using FTP client software. Files sent to systems can be stored and otherwise worked with in a variety of ways. In addition, a telnet remote control environment that works over network is also supported. These features contribute to making user systems and workflows more efficient.

Focus on quick and stable operation and security to eliminate user stress

In addition to using RTOS, we have considered operational security from a variety of angles. ALL of the connectors include locking mechanisms to prevent accidental disconnection. Moreover, the power button and other important keys have button guards. When these guards are unneeded, they can be removed and the unit can be used without them. Of course, the unit also has a panel lock function.

The pursuit of operability

Touch-sensitive TFT color displays enable intuitive operation

The graphical user interface shared by the HS-series enables intuitive and straightforward operation. The menus are sinple with only one level and you can return to the Home Screen with one touch when you complete making a setting. These units enable stress-free operation.

Built-in monitor speaker enable quick confirmations

You can monitor audio even if the RC-HS32PD is located far away from the main unit or console. In addition to monitoring with headphones, these units have built-in speakers, so you can quickly monitor whenever you need to check something.

Support for VNC and the ability to use connected computers to check and control units

These units support Virtual Network Computing (VNC) over local area networks (LAN). You can view the screen of an HS-4000 on a computer connected to it on the same LAN. When doing so, you can also operate the unit's screen using a mouse.

The pursuit of durability

CF cards used recording media (Ultra DMA supported)

CF cards that boast high durability because their contracts are not exposed are used for the recording media. High durability also results from using media that do not require rotating mechanisms. This helps realize recording and playback equipment with the critical trait of high reliability as well as resistance to vibrations and other features that allow them to be used in all types of situations, including field recording. Since they require little maintenance, they reduce expenses over time. Moreover this type of media makes audio file management and utilization easy.

Independent circuit boards for each connector prevent contact defects due to twisting and other causes

Since the layout includes one circuit board for each connector, not only do they boast excellent strength against twisting and pulling from cables, interference with other connectors is also suppressed. Since these systems are designed to be movable, if unexpected force is applied to cables when parts of the system are moved individually, their excellent resistance to these stresses can prevent accidents.

Tough CANARE's BNC connectors that are nut-tightened

Unlike ordinary connectors that are fixed to circuit boards, the CANARE's BNC connectors used in the HS-4000 are individually secured using nuts, providing superior strength against pulling, twisting and other forces.

High-durability knobs use metal even in their stems

An aluminum materials is used in the HS-4000 DATA knob to prevent breaking and the reduction of operaility due to deterioration. It also makes helpful feedback "clicks" during operation.

Adopted aluminum side-panels for High-durability (RC-HS32PD)

The RC-HS32PD adopted two aluminum side-panels for both side. These side-panels provide high-durability from crashing when moving these units.

The pursuit of high-quality sound

Components have been selected carefully through numerous listening evaluations

In the development of the HS-4000 and other equipment with specifications that meet the demands of the broadcast industry, we have not only focused all the expertise that we have gained while developing professional audio equipment over decades, we have also conducted listening evaluations during the selection of individual components and made audio quality the standard when choosing parts. We conducted our listening evaluations in an audio room installed in our headquarters, studios and other locations.

BurrBrown PCM1796 D/A converters and JRC NJM5532 operational amplifier

In these units, we used BurrBrown PCM1796 digital to analog converters because they have earned great praise for audio applications. We also adopted JRC's NJM5532 op-amps, which have a great reputation for audio, after listening evaluations.

Decoupling capacitors that contribute to power supply stability also selected carefully

In audio equipment, a stable power supply is indispensable for providing high audio quality. We also conducted listening tests numerous times for the decoupling capacitors (bypass capacitors) that provide power to the audio circuits in order to select the ones that contribute the most to the audio quality.

Power sections use high-capacity capacitors and achieve audio quality and high efficiency in compact spaces

The power sections use high-capacity capacitors in order to provide stable power supplies. For specifications that meet the requirements of the broadcast industry, in addition to providing high audio quality, we have also pursued the creation for power supply sections that are compact and very efficient. As a result, these units offer high audio quality in a compact 2U rack siz.

NEUTRIK's metal-plated connectors allow little sound quality degradation over time

These units include metal-plated XLR connectors made by NEUTRIK that resist oxidization even over long periods of use and maintain high audio quality.

Options

RC-HS32PD

RC-SS20

RC-900

Features at a Glance

CF cards used as recording media (Ultra DMA supported)
Dual CF card slots
Simultaneous recording of up to four 24bit/96kHz
Confidence monitoring function (playback while recording) can be used when recording two tracks (44.1/48kHz)
Simultaneous playback up to 4 tracks or 2 stereo tracks (in dual playlist mode)
Five operation modes: timeline, take, single playlist, dual playlist and on-air
In timeline mode, recording and playback like a tape recorder is possible using a linear timeline
In take mode, playback and flash starting in take units is possible
In playlist mode, takes can be added to a list for playback in list order and flash starting
In single playlist mode, playback of up to 4 tracks is possible
In dual playlist mode, 2 stereo tracks can be independent played back and controlled
ON LINE key can be used for on-line playback and monitoring playback
BWF and WAV file formats supported
RC-HS32PD and RC-SS20 units (sold separately) can be used for flash starting
Flash starting using parallel control and keyboards is possible
Auto cue, auto ready and incremental play functions
AES31 editing information can be imported and exported in timeline mode
Playlist function in playlist mode (PPL supported)
Jog and shuttle functions
Intuitive operation is possible using graphical interface on TFT color touch sensitive screen
Four XLR analog balanced In/Out
Two stereo pairs of XLR AES/EBU digital In/Out
Two channels of XLR analog monitoring outputs
Headphones output
XLR timecode input and output
BNC video reference (NTSC/PAL black burst signals and HDTV Tri-level signals) and word clock In/Out/Thru
Compatible with 48kHz pull-up/pull-down operation
LAN (Gigabit Ethernet) supports FTP file transmission, telnet remote control and VNC
Parallel remote control
RS-232C serial remote control
RS-422 (9-pin serial protocol) serial remote control
Rack mounting possible (2U)

Features added in Version 1.05

Recording function in tale mode
Support for simultaneous input of PLAY and RECORD signals from an external device

Features added in Version 1.22

Automatic recognition of external files
Manual locating based on timecode time now possible in take mode and playlist modes
Playlist mode changes to ADJUST screen operations and addition of rehearsal playback
Assignment change function on the ENTRY list screen
Change BC$STANDBY/END range at once function
BC$END operation mode setting
System setting backup and preset memory functions
Take copy function

Features added in Version 1.40

Support for P2 Vari Pitch commands
Support for the importing and playback of ADL files that have two files attached to them
Support for MECHA STATUS SENSE, CURRENT TRACK (TAKE) TIME SENSE and IMPORT ADL telnet commands

Spec description

	HS-4000	HS-2000
Recording media	CF card (Compact flash card)
File system	FAT32 (4GB or more), FAT16 (2GB or less)
File format	BWF(monophonic, polyphonic), WAV	BWF, WAV
Number of channels	4 2×2	2
Quantization bit rate	16/24bit
Sampling frequency	44.1 / 47.952 48 / 48.048 88.2 / 96kHz	44.1/47.952/48/48.048/88.2/96/176.4/192kHz
	(47.952/48.048:48kHz +/-0.1%, Pull-up/PUull-down)
Clock reference	INTERNAL, WORD IN, VIDEO IN, DIGITAL IN（CH 1-2 IN, CH 3-4 IN）	INTERNAL, WORD IN, VIDEO IN, DIGITAL IN
Timecode frame	23.976 / 24 / 25 / 29.97DF / 29.97NDF / 30DF / 30NDF
Analog audio Inputs
ANALOG IN[LINE]	XLR-3-31(1:GND/2:HOT/3:COLD)
Input impedance	4.3kohms
Nominal input level	+4dBu(1.23Vrms)+/-1dB / -20dBu(0.0775Vrms)+/-1dB (+4dBu/-20dBu selectable) (+6dBu when Digital Ref. level is set to -9dB)
Maximum output level (selectable)	+15dBu (4.36Vrms) (D.Ref:-9dBFS, A.input:+6dBu) +18dBu (6.16Vrms) (D.Ref:-14dBFS, A.input:+4dBu) +20dBu (7.75Vrms) (D.Ref:-16dBFS, A.input:+4dBu) +22dBu (9.76Vrms) (D.Ref:-18dBFS, A.input:+4dBu) +24dBu (12.3Vrms) (D.Ref:-20dBFS, A.input:+4dBu) -6dBu (0.388Vrms) (D.Ref:-14dBFS, A.input:-20dBu) -4dBu (0.489Vrms) (D.Ref:-16dBFS, A.input:-20dBu) -2dBu (0.616Vrms) (D.Ref:-18dBFS, A.input:-20dBu) 0dBu (0.775Vrms) (D.Ref:-20dBFS, A.input:-20dBu)
	D.Ref:Digital Ref. Level A.input:Analog Input Ref. Level
Analog audio outputs
ANALOG OUT[LINE]	XLR-3-32(1:GND/2:HOT/3:COLD)
Output impedance	100ohms or less
Nominal output level	+4dBu(1.23Vrms)+/-1dB / -20dBu(0.0775Vrms)+/-1dB (+4dBu/-20dBu selectable) (+6dBu when Digital Ref. level is set to -9dB)
Maximum output level (selectable)	+15dBu (4.36Vrms) (D.Ref:-9dBFS, A.output:+6dBu) +18dBu (6.16Vrms) (D.Ref:-14dBFS, A.output:+4dBu) +20dBu (7.75Vrms) (D.Ref:-16dBFS, A.output:+4dBu) +22dBu (9.76Vrms) (D.Ref:-18dBFS, A.output:+4dBu) +24dBu (12.3Vrms) (D.Ref:-20dBFS, A.output:+4dBu) -6dBu (0.388Vrms) (D.Ref:-14dBFS, A.output:-20dBu) -4dBu (0.489Vrms) (D.Ref:-16dBFS, A.output:-20dBu) -2dBu (0.616Vrms) (D.Ref:-18dBFS, A.output:-20dBu) 0dBu (0.775Vrms) (D.Ref:-20dBFS, A.output:-20dBu)
	D.Ref:Digital Ref. Level A.input:Analog Output Ref. Level
ANALOG OUT[MONITOR](L/R)	XLR-3-32(1:GND/2:HOT/3:COLD)
Output impedance	100ohms
Nominal output level	+6dBu(1.55Vrms) (D.ref level = when set to -9dB) +4dBu(1.23Vrms) (D.ref level = when not set to -9dB)
Maximum output level	+15dBu (4.36Vrms) (D.Ref:-9dBFS, A.output:+6dBu) +18dBu (6.16Vrms) (D.Ref:-14dBFS, A.output:+4dBu) +20dBu (7.75Vrms) (D.Ref:-16dBFS, A.output:+4dBu) +22dBu (9.76Vrms) (D.Ref:-18dBFS, A.output:+4dBu) +24dBu (12.3Vrms) (D.Ref:-20dBFS, A.output:+4dBu)
	D.Ref:Digital Ref. Level A.input:Analog Output Ref. Level
PHONES	6.3mm(1/4") stereo phone jack
Maximum output level	45mW + 45mW (THD+N 0.1% or less, 32ohms loaded)
Digital audio inputs
DIGITAL INPUT	XLR-3-31
Min/Max input signal voltage range	2Vp-p - 7Vp-p	200mVp-p - 10Vp-p
Input impedance	110ohms+/-20%
Format	IEC60958-4 (AES-2003、AES/EBU)
Supported sampling frequency	44.1/47.952/48/48.048/88.2/96kHz (Single/Double) (set to SRC ON, 32kHz-192kHz)	44.1/47.952/48/48.048/88.2/96/176.4/192kHz (Single/Double/Quad) (47.952/48.048:48kHz+/-0.1% pull-down/pull-up)
Digital audio outputs
DIGITAL OUTPUT	XLR-3-32
Output voltage	2-5Vp-p
Output impedance	110ohms+/-20%
Format	IEC60958-4 (AES2003、AES/EBU)
Supported sampling frequency	44.1/47.952/48/48.048/88.2/96kHz (Single / Double)	44.1/47.952/48/48.048/88.2/96/176.4/192kHz (Single/Double/Quad) (47.952/48.048:48kHz+/-0.1% pull-down/pull-up)
TIMECODE IN	XLR-3-31
Signal voltage amplitude	0.5-10Vp-p
Input impedance	10kohms
Format	SMPTE 12M-1999 compatible
TIMECODE OUT	XLR-3-32
Signal voltage amplitude	2Vp-p
Output impedance	100ohms
Format	SMPTE12M-1999 compatible
WORD/VIDEO IN	BNC
Input voltage	5V TTL equivalent (WORD IN)
Signal voltage amplitude	1Vp-p (VIDEO IN)
Input impedance	75ohms or less	75ohms+/-10%
Allowable Frequency deviation of external synchronization	+/-100ppm
Input frequency (WORD)	44.1/47.952/48/48.048/88.2/96kHz (47.952/48.048kHz:48kHz+/-0.1% Pull-down/Pull-up)
Input signal (VIDEO)	24/25/29.97/30Frame (NTSC/PAL Black burst、HDTV Tri-level)
WORD/VIDEO THRU/OUT	BNC
Signal voltage amplitude	5V TTL equivalent
Output impedance	75ohms or less	75ohms+/-10%
Output frequency (WORD) (OUT/THRU switchable)	44.1/47.952/48/48.048/88.2/96kHz	44.1/47.952/48/48.048/88.2/96/176.4/192kHz
	(47.952/48.048kHz:48kHz+/-0.1% Pull-up/Pull-down)
Frequency stability	+/-10ppm or less
ETHERNET	RJ45
Supported standards	100BASE-TX,1000BASE-T
USB	USB Atype 4 pin
Fromat	USB2.0 HIGH SPEED (480Mbps) compatible
KEYBOARD	Mini DIN (PS/2)
CONTROL I/O
REMOTE	ETHERCON (CAT6 supported)
Power supply voltage	13V/41V
Signal	LVDS serial
Contents	LCD display data, asynchronous serial transmission control signals, port control signals
PARALLEL	D-sub25pin
RS-422	D-sub9 pin
RS-232C	D-sub9 pin
Power	AC100V-240V, 50-60Hz
Power consumption	25W
Dimensions	482.6(W) x 94(H) x 317.1(D)mm
Weight	5.1kg
Operating temperature	5-35˚C

Audio performance
Frequency response Analog in to Analog out	20-20kHz:+/-0.5dB (Fs=44.1/48kHz,JEITA) 20-40kHz:+0.5dB/-2dB (Fs=88.2/96kHz,JEITA)	20Hz-20kHz:+/-0.5dB (Fs:44.1/48kHz,JEITA) 20Hz-40kHz:+0.5dB/-2dB (Fs=88.2/96kHz,JEITA) 20Hz-80kHz:+0.5dB/-5dB (Fs=176.4/192kHz,JEITA)
Distortion Analog in to Analog out	0.005% or less (JEITA)
S/N ratio Analog in to Analog out	100dB or more (JEITA)

Supported Media / Other

USB Supported Media 07-28-2023
hs-4000_media_usb_list_.pdf 76.4 KB CF Supported Media 05-19-2020
hs-4000_media_cf_list_.pdf 93.3 KB

Information

Update Information

Latest version info
Firmware	V3.01

Firmware V3.01

When a CF card formatted with exFAT or NTFS was loaded in the unit, a "Reading Media" pop-up message would stay on screen. This has been fixed.
In on-air mode, after pausing during credit playback followed by turning the ON AIR button on without stopping, playback operation would cause the following behavior without on-air playback starting. This has been fixed.
- PLAY button blinked
- Instead of moving to the next take using the END mark, it would stop at the END mark.
Stop tally output from the parallel connector would turn off after the CF card in the non-current slot completed automatically loading if the CF card in the noncurrent slot did not have a project and was loaded when stopped or if the unit was stopped after a CF card that did not have a project was loaded in the noncurrent slot while not stopped. This has been fixed.
If multiple new sessions were created on a CF card using TASCAM HS Editor, for example, only one of the created sessions would be recognized when that card was installed in the unit. This has been fixed.
After switching projects or sessions while creating waveform display data using the WAVEFORM VIEW function (when the progress icon was turning above and to the right of the session name button), a playback error would occur if the previous session was returned to and playback attempted. This has been fixed.
When the operation mode was playlist mode (A/B MIXED), if a flash start button was pressed the operation setting would differ from the setting value on rare occasions. This has been fixed.
Operation stability has been improved.

Using the RC-900 control remote: To use the RC-900 control remote, please make sure that the firmware version of the RC-900 unit is above V1.40.

Manuals

Owner's Manual Addendum V3.00	12-17-2018	600.8 KB
Owner's Manual Addendum V2.11 -New functions in firmware version 2.11	08-21-2015	395.6 KB
Owner's Manual V2.00	05-26-2015	10.3 MB
HS-4000 V1.22 Manual Addendum	12-06-2011	1.6 MB
HS-4000 V1.21 Manual Addendum	12-06-2011	1.8 MB

Documents

Release Note	01-07-2020	174.2 KB
RS-232C Protocol Specification	05-26-2015	1.3 MB
TASCAM Pro Audio Brochure 2011	05-24-2011	4.1 MB

Firmware

Firmware V3.01	01-07-2020	2.3 MB
Firmware V3.00	12-17-2018	3.6 MB
Firmware V2.13	02-27-2017	2.1 MB
Firmware V2.12	02-22-2016	2.1 MB
Firmware V2.11	08-21-2015	2.1 MB
HS-4000 firmware version 2.00	05-15-2013	1.6 MB

Software

Poly/Mono Converter for Windows	03-13-2013	8.4 MB

Supported Media / Other

USB Supported Media	07-28-2023	76.4 KB
CF Supported Media	05-19-2020	93.3 KB

HS-4000

4-track Broadcast Recorder

Options

Features at a Glance

Spec description

Supported Media / Other

Information

Update Information

Manuals

Documents

Firmware

Software

Supported Media / Other

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