TASCAM Portacapture X6 Multitrack Recorder Announced

Audio News

by Dave KratzJanuary 26^th, 2023

The TASCAM Portacapture X6 Multitrack Recorder is a very capable audio recorder geared toward videographers and content creators who work with smaller crews. This scaled-down version of the Portacapture X8 offers the same high-quality 32-bit float point audio recordings in a more compact and efficient design. So let’s see what the Portacapture X6 is all about!

Tascam released the original Portacapture X8 in 2021 with the goal of making audio recording easier and more familiar with an interface similar to a mobile phone. It features 4 XLR/TRS inputs, a built-in stereo microphone, a total of 8 tracks (6 single tracks + stereo mix) and built-in apps to make the recording process easier. Now, the new X6 model promises to pack similar features in a more compact form factor.

TASCAM Portacapture X6 – key features

• Music, Field, Podcast & Voice Recording
• Detachable Adjustable Condenser Mics
• Four XLR-1/4″ Inputs with Phantom Power
• Color Touchscreen, Application Presets
• Records in WAV up to 32-Bit / 192 kHz
• 3.5mm Line and Headphone Outputs
• Auto-Gain, Limiter, Low-Cut Filter, Gate
• Powered via Batteries, USB, or Adapter
• Supports microSD Cards up to 512GB
• Optional Bluetooth Wireless Control

TASCAM Portacapture X6 – physical specifications

The new TASCAM Portacapture X6 Multitrack Recorder takes all of the cues from its big brother, the X8. However, the compact size of the X6 makes it easier to pack, and easier to position for various recording applications. 

It is smaller and lighter (3×6.9×1.5″/7.5×17.4×3.7cm & 12.9 oz/365g), uses a smaller 2.4” touch screen, has 2x XLR Mic/Line Inputs, adjustable stereo condensers and records a total of 6 tracks (4 single tracks + stereo mix).

Also, its battery performance boasts a reasonable improvement over the X8. The X6 has a maximum runtime of ~22 hours (using lithium-ion batteries and 1-2 inputs) compared to the X8’s ~18 hours with the same batteries and settings. It is important to note that these runtimes go down to about half when using more tracks and phantom power.

Audio Recording Apps

Just like the X8, the X6 comes loaded with 6 built-in apps that are designed for different audio recording scenarios. The Launcher platform allows for quick access to these apps, and the optional AK-BT1 Bluetooth Adapter doubly allows you to access these apps and trigger recordings through your mobile device.

Here’s a brief description of each recording app:

TASCAM Portacapture X6 for video production

The small size and included apps in the TASCAM Portacapture X6 Multitrack Recorder make it an ideal audio recording component for small crews.  However, two features really stand out specifically for video production: 32-bit float recording and a Bluetooth time-code sync option.

The 32-bit float point recording technology in the Portacapture X6 is claimed to provide a much lower floor and a higher ceiling in your audio recordings. This makes it nearly unlikely for recordings to be over-modulated, and also makes it easier to boost sound levels without boosting inherent noise.

Also, with the optional AK-BT1 Bluetooth Adapter, the X6 is capable of syncing with a timecode device like the Atomos UltraSync Blue. Having matching timecodes makes the task of syncing multiple sources in post as easy and quick as clicking a button.

Competition

There is a lot of competition for handheld audio recording devices. The most direct competition for the Portacapture X6 comes from the Zoom H6 and Zoom H4n.

Both the H6 and H4n offer similar stereo recording capsules, 2-4 XLR inputs, and cost a little less than the X6. However, they are missing 32-bit float recording and a Bluetooth time-code sync option. Not to go unmentioned, their interfaces also are far more basic.

Price and availability

The TASCAM Portacapture X6 Multitrack Recorder is listed for $369 and is currently available for pre-order on B&H. The AK-BT1 Bluetooth Adapter sells for $39.

What do you think about the TASCAM Portacapture X6? Do you use 32-bit float recording in your video productions? Let us know in the comments below.