TASCAM has announced the FR-AV4, a 4-Channel 32-Bit Float Audio Field Recorder with Mixer, Timecode Generator, and HDMI Sync.
The TASCAM FR-AV4 sort of reminds me of the Sound Devices MixPre series.
Key features
- Dual ADCs with enhanced 32-bit float recording up to 192kHz
- Record six tracks (four tracks plus stereo mix) using internal 4-in/2-out mixer
- Four XLR/TRS combo inputs (Ultra HDDA preamps), EIN -127dBu
- Timecode generation, LTC jam sync, and wireless timecode sync ((Requires optional Bluetooth adapter AK-BT2)
- 6-in/2-out USB-C audio interface (32-bit float)
- HDMI sync (rec trigger, timecode, clock cascade with 4K/8K pass-through
- Bluetooth audio monitoring (Requires optional Bluetooth adapter AK-BT2)
- App control via TASCAM RECORDER CONNECT (Requires optional Bluetooth adapter AK-BT2)
The FR-AV4 offers 32-bit float recording with dual analog-to-digital converters, allowing users to capture audio up to 192kHz without worrying about clipping or gain staging. What you need to be very careful of is not overloading the microphone you are using, because if it clips, 32-bit float won’t save you.
There are four Ultra HDDA mic preamps across four XLR/TRS combo inputs and a built-in 4-input/2-output mixer. This enables you to record six tracks (four mono inputs plus a stereo mix), making it a decent all-in-one solution for on-location production.
The FR-AV4 comes in a reasonably slim form factor, and its compact size and integrated camera mount make it a decent solution when capturing sound for interviews, narrative film, documentary, or immersive spatial audio.
It weighs 756g / 1.66 lb, and it has physical dimensions of 184 x 42 x 130 mm (W x H x D, including protrusions)
Yes, you could mount it on or with a camera, but it is going to take up a fair amount of real estate.
To support synchronization in multi-camera and dual-system audio workflows, the FR-AV4 includes a full-featured timecode generator with LTC jam sync capabilities and HDMI timecode sync.
HDMI I/O supports record triggering and passthrough of 4K/8K video signals. HDMI also allows multiple units to be cascaded, allowing for recording over four channels, while also supporting video output to industry-standard monitor recorders like those from Atomos and Blackmagic Design. Bluetooth timecode support is still very limited, and you would need to use an ULTRASYNC BLUE for that to work.
In addition, the unit functions as a 6-in/2-out USB-C audio interface, supporting both 24-bit and 32-bit float formats for professional DAW recording or live streaming applications.
For monitoring and control, the FR-AV4 supports Bluetooth audio output and can be remotely managed using the free TASCAM Recorder Connect mobile app (available for iOS, iPadOS, and Android) when paired with the optional AK-BT2 Bluetooth adapter ($69 USD). The app supports control and monitoring of up to five units, with any combination of products within the TASCAM ecosystem. The 1.9-inch color touchscreen and tactile jog wheel provide intuitive on-device navigation, while ambisonic recording support and automatic file protection enhance performance in dynamic production environments.
Additional features include built-in EQ, limiter, low-cut filter, and noise gate processing, SDXC card support up to 512 GB, and versatile power options including four AA batteries with the BH-4AA battery holder for quick one-touch installation, USB mobile power banks, or the optional PS-P520U AC adapter.
Pricing & Availability
The TASCAM FR-AV4 retails for $999 USD, and it’s expected to start shipping in late October.
