Fixed up a TASCAM DS-M7.1

[mixerizer]

Just a quick post - I just fixed up a TASCAM DS-M7.1 Surround monitoring unit. I got it for parts and had to replace a few capacitors but I had good luck and what a lovely machine! Very useful controller, features stereo downmix and a lot of other useful features.

They run hot, so I am interested to see how it does over time but for now, it is fun mixing in surround on the DM-4800/DM-24 - when I move to and from stereo mixing all I have to do is change modes and unlink one buss pair out of the 6 used for 5.1 surround or add in the second side pair for a custom 7.1 myself. I put it on my interface so I can route whatever I want thru it’s ‘console’, ‘recorder’ and ‘master recorder’ slots (TDIF or AES-EBU in my case. Can recommend!

 

[musk771]

I'm interested about this unit. How is it in term of sound quality? Is it clean, noisy? I had to work with Avid MTRX, truly amazing mastering quality, detailed sound, but I don't want to invest so much money. Can the DS-M7.1 be a good alternative for 7.1 mastering?

 

[mixerizer]

The sound quality is good, but the design and build is pretty universally terrible. The caps on the main board leak and cause segmentation faults, it’s very sensitive and often won’t power up correctly. And I’ve seen this behavior in two of these units - honestly, I use the TC Clarity X now and am glad I switched, even though I do love the TASCAM ecosystem, and the compatibility with the I/o cards from the DM series.

 

[musk771]

Thanks for sharing your experience. Reading around some forums heard not very positive comments about the DSM 7.1 monitor out dac, not very bad but far to be great. The best way to use it is fully digital, but unfortunately I need a monitor controller with neutral, clean sound for my speaker setup, that is analog, without to hook up an external dac. So I think to leave the Tascam, although I'm very happy with other Tascam products. I've found an RTW 31900 Series monitor controller for a very decent price and I purchased it today. It seems to have all "bell and whistles" for serious tasks and metering, analog and digital inputs with comprehensive routing setting, and a refined sound quality. I'm waiting for the delivery. I hope I did a right choice, that will last till I will need an immersive controller.