Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 or Tascam DP 004/006

[moominboy]

Ok so I've narrowed my options to these 2.

Anyone have any thoughts/opinions on which to go with and why? I have used Tascam in the past but have no recent experience. Have never used Focusrite but have heard good things about them.

Thanks in advance.

[scripsit]

I'm still grappling with recording, but I think you are comparing two completely different work flows here.

The Scarlett 2i2 is a neat preamp which can give excellent results (it's what I use, for what it's worth), but you'll need a couple of decent microphones to plug into it and a computer and DAW software which it sends signals to.

My understanding is that the Tascam is a fairly sophisticated portable recorder, which has everything in the box. I'm not familiar with it, but I've used other portable recorders, including the Zoom H2 which can also double as a stereo microphone if you do have a computer and DAW, and the results for me were not up to even the entry level separate preamp like the Scarlett.

Kym

[bbrown]

So far, I've recorded two ways:

1. With a Zoom H4N
2. With the Scarlett 2i2 preamp and two mics (both ADK A6).

I get better sound with the zoom H4N.

[Steven Bollman]

I can't give you comparative input, but I use the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and like it.

[MikeBmusic]

Like scripsit says, 2 completely different approaches.

At first (4-5 years ago) I used a Boss BR600 for home recording because I knew my computer at the time wasn't up to the challenge. Recorded my whole first CD on it. Looking back on it, I wish I had waited to go the interface/DAW route. Steeper learnign curve, but the results are much more rewarding.
A stand-alone recorder is what it is, of course you can always move the recorded tracks to a computer for mixing. An interface - as long as it is a quality one - will last you a lot longer as you update microphones and instruments.

[moominboy]

Originally Posted by MikeBmusic

Like scripsit says, 2 completely different approaches.

At first (4-5 years ago) I used a Boss BR600 for home recording because I knew my computer at the time wasn't up to the challenge. Recorded my whole first CD on it. Looking back on it, I wish I had waited to go the interface/DAW route. Steeper learnign curve, but the results are much more rewarding.
A stand-alone recorder is what it is, of course you can always move the recorded tracks to a computer for mixing. An interface - as long as it is a quality one - will last you a lot longer as you update microphones and instruments.

Yes, from what I can see, if I go with the Tascam I am gaining the ability to record or 'sketch' whenever, wherever, but giving up on sound quality and build quality.

Whereas with the Scarlett 2i2, I have (from what I've read) a better quality machine overall but I give up internal mics that the tascam offers. Basically I have to have the laptop with me if I want to record.

Laptop is late model and can cope with anything, so that's not an issue.

Maybe I should just go with the 2i2 and a Shure SM57 to start with. Then maybe buy a Zoom H1 for recording on the spot.

Hmmmm.....

[MikeBmusic]

Or go with the Zoom H4n, built-in mics are much better than the Tascam, and it can also be used as an interface.

[bbrown]

The Zoom H4N has a 4 channel option, whereby you can use both the Zoom internal mics (which are excellent) along with either one or two external mics connected to the Zoom with XLR connections.