TASCAM launch new DAW controller

TASCAM’s new FW-1884 is an advanced, expandable DAW controller and audio/MIDI interface which combines IEEE 1394 (FireWire) high bandwidth data transfer, a fully featured 18x8x2 audio mixer and sophisticated DAW control surface.
The versatile mix/control surface features nine touch-sensitive, motorised, 100 mm faders – eight channel and one master fader – 11 dedicated (4-band parametric) EQ, Pan, Solo, Mute Select and Aux send rotary encoders, transport controls, a professional, weighted jog shuttle wheel and an array of assignable function/short-cut keys, for flexible control of the widest possible range of dedicated audio software programmes. A 'FAT Channel' provides for adjustment and GUI representation of EQ, dynamics and effects parameters.
In addition, the FW-1884 provides full, stand-alone, digital audio mix capabilities, with high quality microphone pre-amps, 24/96 AD/DA conversion throughout and 96 kHz operation on all analogue I/O channels, a full compliment of eight analogue microphone/ line inputs – with phantom power and inserts on each input – and 8-channel ADAT and stereo SPDIF digital I/Os. In use, the FW-1884 allows access to up to 18 audio inputs at one time.
Eight analogue outputs enable simultaneous monitoring of stereo and 5.1 multi-channel audio. A 4x4 MIDI interface/ patcher is also featured. Connection to host computer platforms is via either of two high-speed IEEE 1394 (FireWire) interface connections. Word Clock I/O ensures accurate synchronisation within the digital signal chain. An assignable footswitch jack facilitates such operations as hands-free 'punch-in' recording or MIDI control.
The FW-1884 control surface is laid out in order to intuitively support an extensive range of audio production software. Software support is for Windows 2000, Windows XP, Mac OS-9 and Mac OS-X with ASIO, WDM, MME and GSIF drivers, enabling control of major workstation packages such as Protools, Logic, Nuendo/Cubase, Digital Performer, Pyramix, Soundscape, Samplitude, Sequoia.
The FW-1884 also features emulation of the control features of the Mackie Control to enable immediate use of the FW-1884 with software that supports the Mackie Control but does not yet support the FW-1884.
Further system expansion is possible with the FE-8 expansion module, providing
eight additional, fully spec’d, channel strips; including motorised faders, dedicated and assignable encoders and keys.
(GB)