TASCAM FR-AV2 Audio Recorder Announced – 32-bit Float Field Recorder and More

Audio Gear News

by Omri Keren LapidotOctober 1^st, 2024

The TASCAM FR-AV2 joins the fray of 32-bit float audio field recorders with quite a splash. Successfully checking all the standard boxes, the FR-AV2 adds some significant features like Timecode and Bluetooth monitoring. These, along with dual combo jacks, USB-C compatibility, color LCD screen, rugged build, and 32-bit float recording, make it an excellent companion for any hybrid camera. The compact size and boxy design should allow for easy rigging into your kit of choice.

32-bit recorders have somewhat revolutionized our industry in recent years. While 24-bit isn’t bad, the 32-bit float comes with such headroom that almost no recording mistake can’t be fixed in post. I guess sound professionals will find additional advantages, but from a single operator point of view, 32-bit revolutionized my workflow, allowing me to focus on other things with the peace of mind it provided. Tight teams, quick-response ENG professionals, wedding filmmakers, and documentarists can now count on the recorder without constant monitoring, even in extreme conditions.

Robustly compact

The TASCAM FR-AV2 follows this slogan both in terms of design and in terms of features. Every inch of its surface area teems with functionality. On the device’s main panel, we’ll find a generous 2″ color LCD screen and four function buttons to navigate the displayed menu and options. There are four playback buttons (with additional functions) and a big REC button. Three LEDs will provide recording indication as well as clipping alert per channel. While not as relevant for 32-bit float recording, the device also supports 24-bit, so that’s a nice touch.

Wired connectivity

Two XLR/TRS Combo Mic/Line Inputs tightly fill the left-hand side of the TASCAM FR-AV2. The TRS compatibility sets the FR-AV2 apart from two of its closest competitors, the Zoom F3 and Tascam’s own Portacapture X6, making it more flexible.

But the 3.5mm jacks on the bottom panel make the TASCAM FR-AV2 an amazing fit for hybrid filmmaking. To the left is the input jack, enabling audio from 3.5mm microphones, such as the popular RØDE VideoMic series. Pretty standard, but this input can double as a linear Timecode input, letting us use various Timecode generating options other than the optional Bluetooth add-on. Next, there’s a simple headphone jack with volume control, and to the right is the camera/LINE/TC out.

This is an extremely important feature. Every filmmaker and content creator working with external recorders is well aware of the hustle involved with syncing audio and video in post. The TASCAM FR-AV2 all but eliminates the need for sync in post, which will greatly appeal to video creators across the board.

The right panel houses the rather oversized Micro SD slot (up to 512GB) behind a rubber cover. A USB-C port will double as a power supply and external interface for both desktops and mobile devices, and a sliding on-off switch is also here. Notice the lack of a “Lock” position. The bulge on the top panel is the optional AK-BT2, a new Bluetooth dongle with some meaningful tricks up its sleeve.

Next level Bluetooth

As with many current audio recorders, an optional Bluetooth dongle is available. Most dongles allow for remote operation, REC start/stop, and TC Sync. The new AK-BT2 brings some additional features to the TASCAM FR-AV2. The most useful of these is probably the audio monitoring option. Yes, you can now hear your audio via common Bluetooth headphones or speakers. This can be done in conjunction with wired monitoring.

Five recorders can be simultaneously controlled by a single phone or tablet via the mobile app. The system is also compatible with the Atomos UltraSync BLUE system, so if you’ve invested in these products – fear not.

Price and availability

The TASCAM FR-AV2 is on the pricier side of the 32-bit float audio recorders crowd at $399. It tops the Zoom F3 by $100, which is quite fair considering its added features. It’s also priced higher than TASCAM’s flagship Portacapture X8 current pricing ($369.99), though less than the latter’s launch price. It’s currently available for pre-order. For more information visit the TASCAM website.

Will the new FR-AV2, which is directly aimed at filmmakers and hybrid shooters, cater to your needs? Will it help you start working with external recording? Let us know in the comments.