Tascam has announced the FR-AV2 Compact 32-bit Float Field Recorder and Timecode Generator with Mixer, targetting a wide range of recording applications, including small-to-mid-size film and video production, videography for weddings and other special events, as well as video journalism.
The FR-AV2's dual ADCs with 32-bit float point recording capability supports sample rates up to 192kHz – no other recorder of this size currently offers 192kHz recording. Dual analogue-to-digital converter technology offer greater dynamic range, making it impossible to clip recordings.
With the addition of the optional AK-BT2 Bluetooth adapter, FR-AV2 users can monitor the source audio wirelessly using wireless Bluetooth enabled headphones and earbuds. The ability to hear what is being recorded enables users to check how their microphone placement sounds, accurately monitor the incoming signal level, while alerting them to any unwanted background noise.
With its the 2-inch colour LCD, the FR-AV2 can fit into any size film/video rig, whether it is a full-sized cinematic camera or a small iPhone content creator set-up.
The FR-AV2 can generate time code, which enables videographers to synchronise cameras and audio. Additionally, the recorder can synchronise and receive time code from other time code equipment, and for those who use it, JamSync is also available. In addition, Bluetooth wireless time code synchronisation using AK-BT2 and Atomos UltraSync Blue products.
For larger projects, the optional AK-BT2 Bluetooth adapter and downloadable Tascam Recorder Connect app allow users to control all the parameters of a recorder while expanding a system up to five units, including control of the Tascam DR-10L Pro.
The FR-AV2’s dual XLR/TRS inputs boast an EIN (Equivalent Input Noise) of -127dBu. With two dual XLR/TRS combo jacks, the FR-AV2 can accommodate most any type of external thanks to the integrated Tascam Ultra HDDA preamps.
Adding further versatility, the FR-AV2 can function both as a standalone recorder or as a USB audio interface. It can be connected to iOS devices, Mac or PC computers, and be used as a 2-input/2-output USB audio interface via the USB-C port.
‘The FR-AV2 represents a bold approach to capturing audio,’ says Paul Youngblood, Tascam’s Division Manager. ‘With a rich feature set and its incredibly compact size, this new recorder & time code generator re-defines field recording. There isn’t another recorder on the market with so much capability. Normally, if a user wanted to get everything the FR-AV2 offers, they would need to have two or three pieces of gear. The ability to monitor audio in real time via Bluetooth is unprecedented. I am confident audio professionals will find much to like.’
