Tascam Model 12 Analog Audio Mixer Board Review

The Tascam Model 12 is much more than just a mixer. Included is a combination of the traditional mixer, a USB interface (specifically 12 in/ 10 out), a DAW controller (with HUI/MCU protocol), as well as onboard FX and a multi-track recorder that supports 12 tracks (via SDHC, SD, or SDXC).

All this technology allows for a wide array of different features.

At its core the device is still an analogue mixer, but to access the range of other features, there’s an LCD screen with a detailed menu interface.

Via these menus you’ll find multi-track options, SD card options, metronome options, DAW preset options, as well as many different mixer settings like global solo mode and channel phase invert. 

Some of these features won’t jump out at you right away, so be sure to have a good look through the menu interface so you know you’re making the most of your device. 

This incredible board blew us away the moment we first tried it at rehearsal. Our initial needs were to find a mixer that allowed us to rehearse silently, without disturbing the neighborhood.

We are: 2-guitars, bass, drums (electric full-kit) and 4 vocals. We all go direct into the TASCAM. We got us a multi-channel headphone amp and we were quickly and silently rehearsing away with the full band volume in our ears that first day! As a weekend musician-warrior, I can tell you this board offers a quick, easy path to tracking and recording. The onboard reverb/delay feature is killer. The EQ on each channel is setup well to help dial in each band member's instrument and vocal. Including compression! The Bluetooth feature is really cool. We can connect any of our cellphones to the Model 12 and play music we have on our phones right into every headphone.

Tascam Model 12 is a compact all-in-one integrated mixing and recording suite designed for music and multimedia creators, songwriters and performers. It consists of a 10-input mixer, a 12-track version of the highly acclaimed Tascam multi-track audio recorder, USB audio interface, MIDI connectivity, DAW control functions, and unique podcasting capability including mix-minus and smartphone input.

Tascam Analog Board Model 12

Combining the feel of an analogue user interface with the efficient workflow and pristine quality associated with digital recording and production, the compact and affordable Model 12 supports your creative process from start to finish.

The Model 12 incorporates several features for podcasting and internet streaming like mix-minus, smartphone input, multiple mic-ready channels, Bluetooth pairing, dual headphone monitoring, and internal multi-track recording. Use the Model 12 as a versatile live production recorder, USB audio interface and live streaming tool.

Tascam 12 provides a flexible recording tool that allows you record up to 10 tracks simultaneously and then mix, master and export a final product. As the unit saves files to .WAV files it is easy to copy your raw files to other computer- based DAW platforms such as ProTools or Logic for editing. It is also easy to import loops, beats and other audio content for songwriting. The first 10 of the 12 available tracks are assignable to one of three modes––Live, PC or Multitrack Recording–– while tracks 11 And 12 are the Master outs.

Tascam Model 12 allows you to record onto SD and SDHC cards as well as SDXC cards up to 512 GB. Model 12 is a great tool for capturing band practices, performances, live recording and tracking sessions. You can use the Model 12 as a Playback engine or simply as a live mixer for mixing and capturing live performances. It also has a storage mode that makes it easy to transfer files to your computer desktop for file storage or importing into other software programs.

Tascam Analog Audio Mixer Model 12

Tascam can record at 44.1k / 48k Hz. The Model 12 features Tascam's Ultra HDDA Mic Preamps. The preamps have a maximum of +22DB of headroom. Its mixing surface features sweepable equalizer on all 12 channels. Each channel features Low Cut, Hi Shelving Mid Peaking and Low Shelving. The unit features a Master EQ section with High Shelving, Mid Peaking and Low Shelving controls. Each channel also has available Compression. The Aux sends can be used to route signal to the FX engine, or to the Aux 1 & 2 outputs on the Tascam Model 12. Next to the faders are buttons for routing signal to either Main or Sub outputs, or both simultaneously. There are Inserts on channels one and two.

Tascam board Model 12 features a built-in Metronome, two headphone outputs with individual volume controls. The TASCAM Model 12 has a dedicated TAP Tempo function allowing you to monitor and adjust the recording tempo in live and recording situations. It also has Bluetooth capability that provides for a variety of playback options. The TASCAM Model 12 connects to your computer via a USB Type C Connector. While the TASCAM Model 12 has the basic capability to control many basic recording functions (including fader, Pan, Solo, and Record), it does not have the more advanced MIDI Machine Control functionality required to control more advanced features on your DAW.

Tascam recently released a firmware update for the Model 12, which adds VAMP looping functions, auto-calculates tempo sets in and out points. This VAMP feature allows you to easily set a start and endpoint and loop playback selected audio content on the TASCAM Model 12.

Tascam Model 12 Recording Mixer: Rear

You can, for example, rehearse a selected track before you record the part. The Tascam Model 12 is compatible with the Tascam RF 1 Footswitch for controlling VAMP looping and punching in and out. Tascam has invested a significant amount of resources in the podcasting market. The Tascam Model 12 features mix-minus and smartphone inputs. The basic concept of a mix-minus is to input multiple sources of audio into an audio mixer (your microphone, phone messages, Skype, etc.) then send that audio back out to Skype, minus (without) the Skype caller's voice.

The Tascam Model 12 shines as a standalone recorder that brings a lot of the original Portastudio functionality dialed in for the 21st century. It is easy to use and is a fun, refreshing change from “all in the box” computer-based recording while retaining tight computer integration and the ability to control the basic functions of your DAW if you want it to. It’s a portable, flexible and cost-effective recording tool adaptable for a wide variety of home and professional recording environments.