Emulation of a TASCAM recorder classic in software format
Overview
high-quality emulation of the popular TASCAM 388 recorder
can be used as a plug-in or in standalone mode
DSM and SCC IK technology accurately models tape machine components for detailed and lifelike sound
full latency compensation
supports sample rates up to 192 kHz
Note: This product is delivered as license code. No product box, no data medium or similar. Please check registration/download/compatibility with your system/etc. on the manufacturer's site BEFORE purchasing. Software is not returnable.
IK Multimedia delivers with this software a special emulation of the Tascam 388 hardware classic and brings the magic analog touch on a digital level directly into your studio. Whether in standalone mode or as a plug-in in your favorite DAW, it's much easier to use than the original, but delivers an equally impressive sound that you won't soon forget. Thanks to IK's DSM and SCC modeling technologies, it was possible to capture the Vintage-Sound and make it available to you for only a fraction of the price of the Hardware.
Analog Stereo Sound
Even perfectly aligned tape recorders exhibit slight level, EQ, and distortion differences between right and left channels, which is part of the nature of analog recording. The software recreates these subtle differences to give a 1-to-1 match to the real experience. Of course, this feature can be easily disabled if needed.
Tape Speed
The speed of the tape transport can be changed to either provide more fidelity or a warmer, rounder tone.
Transport Modeling
This precisely models the behavior of the mechanical transport to recreate the small irregularities in the movement of the tape that lead to sonic changes. However, it is also possible to bypass this effect if you prefer a more natural sound processing.
Record Bias
Ideal bias voltage settings provide maximum sensitivity and low distortion. Intentional overdriving is a common technique to create a warmer, slightly saturated sound. Underbiasing can be used to boost high frequencies in unique ways, adding distortion and other non-linear effects.
The power of T-RackS
Like all of IK's T-RackS plug-ins, the Porta One plug-in can be used as a standalone app or within T-RackS 5. The latter allows you to combine it with other effects to mix and master even faster - so it's perfect for creating your very own workflow with your favourite tools. It's a unique modular system that can connect up to 16 processors in series or parallel. And it does so at up to 192 kHz/32-bit floating point.
The sound and the agony of choice
The software also lets you choose between four different "Band Formulas" that affect the sound.
35: Modeled after the BASF LPR35, this is the formula TASCAM recommends for an optimal balance between warmth and precision on the TASCAM 388.
456: This model was modeled after the Ampex 456 and went into production around 1974. It is perhaps the most widely used tape and has contributed the most to what is considered "the" tape sound. It offers a warm, round tone with a slight hint of saturation that responds strongly to recording level.
GP9: Modeled after the Quantegy GP9, this tape accepts higher signal levels with minimal distortion and compression. It is very punchy and perfect for modern, high quality analog recording.
499: Modeled after the Ampex 499 formula, this tape is designed to handle a large amount of level with minimal distortion and compression. It also features added high frequency definition making it perfect for printing "digital-like" recordings while maintaining the analog sound.