The Tascam 44 reel-to-reel tape recorder was part of the robust and versatile Series 40 line, a range engineered for professional mastering, editing, and post-production.
Designed and manufactured by Tascam, the professional division of TEAC Corporation, the Tascam 44 represented the pinnacle of compact ¼” tape-based multitrack recording during its era, combining build quality, precision engineering, and dependable operation into a format suitable for studios, post houses and broadcasters alike.
The Tascam 44 is a 4-track ¼-inch recorder/reproducer that shares its architecture with the Tascam 42, but omits the microphone inputs, making it particularly suitable for video and multi-image mastering where external mic preamps are not required.
It accommodates both 7-inch and 10½-inch reels and supports NAB or IEC equalisation standards. Operating at 7½ or 15 ips, the TASCAM 44 delivers flat frequency response up to 22 kHz at 15 ips, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 64 dB (A-weighted), and impressively low crosstalk, better than 55 dB at 1 kHz.
Like all Series 40 machines, the Tascam 44 features a three-motor servo control system: reel motors and the capstan motor are all governed by a quartz-referenced microprocessor, ensuring precise tape tension, speed accuracy within ±0.2%, and ultra-stable transport even under SMPTE synchroniser control. This system provides flawless cueing, reduces stretch and wear, and ensures accurate positional control during editing.
Its servo-driven direct drive capstan motor, paired with a non-magnetic ceramic pinch roller bearing system, eliminates common dropout issues caused by mechanical wobble or misalignment. Playback is always smooth and consistent, with full real-time sync playback equal to repro response. That means transfers, overdubs and inserts remain in phase across all tracks without the need for continual switching between playback heads, an essential for mastering or multi-image sound design.
The Tascam 44 includes both balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connections, allowing it to interface cleanly with a range of professional studio systems. A +4 dBm nominal level on the XLRs offers 24 dB of headroom, while the RCA inputs provide similar performance at -10 dBV.
The robust power supply design, utilising separate outputs for motors and audio stages, helps prevent heat build-up and guarantees long-term reliability.
Thanks to its internal layout, with all electronics for each channel mounted to a rugged glass-epoxy circuit card, the Tascam 44 is designed for serviceability and performance. It includes clearly marked calibration trimmers for EQ, bias and levels, all arranged for easy access. A master oscillator governs system timing, ensuring stable and clean signal paths without internal beating or phasing.
The unit also supports full plug-in compatibility with leading SMPTE controllers and synchronisers via its accessory port. It requires no additional add-ons for full sync capability and avoids the need for guard bands thanks to its low crosstalk circuit design, which prevents time code bleed into programme material.
With its precision transport, durable build, and advanced servo logic, the Tascam 44 was a go-to solution for mastering engineers, video post-production facilities, and audio professionals who needed dependable multitrack performance in a compact, serviceable format.
Features
- Industry standard 4 track format
- Balanced +4 dBm and unbalanced –10 dBV, compatible with all professional equipment
- 24 dB of headroom ensures low distortion and allows more leeway in mix levels
- Sync playback response equal to repro response saves time by allowing critical judgments during recording
- Capstan drives the back of the tape, eliminating tape scuffing and dropouts
- Full servo system, including capstan and reel motors, for faster and more precise control of tape motion
- All servo adjustments accessible from front panel
- Manual and Dump Edit for fast and convenient editing, and a splicing block in front of the heads where it belongs
- A custom microprocessor ensures rapid yet gentle tape handling in all modes
- Out-of-the-carton, plug-in compatibility with all leading (SMPTE) controller/synchronizers; no extras to buy
- Exceptionally low crosstalk means no wasted “guard band” track needed to isolate SMPTE time code
- Multiple power supplies prevent heat build-up for longer service life
- Premium components and exceptionally stable circuit design contribute to superb long-term stability
- Heavy duty chassis construction and motors explain why Series 40 machines weigh as much as a third more than other brands
