Tascam PORTACAPTURE X8 – 6-Input/8-Track 32-Bit Float Handheld Recorder

Product Overview

The TASCAM Portacapture X8 is a 6-input/8-track 32-bit float handheld field recorder designed for videographers, documentary filmmakers, sound designers, podcasters, and musicians who need professional multitrack recording in a portable format. Its 32-bit float recording engine eliminates the need to set input levels before recording — audio captured too loud or too quiet can be corrected in post without quality loss — making it particularly suited to unpredictable live recording environments. It records to microSDXC card, functions as a 6-in/2-out USB audio interface, and supports optional Bluetooth remote control via the AK-BT1 adapter.

Product Description

The Portacapture X8 provides 4 XLR/TRS combo mic/line inputs with individual phantom power, plus dual built-in microphones with switchable stereo patterns, for 6 total inputs routing to 8 tracks on the microSD card. The large touchscreen display and launcher interface organizes recording into purpose-specific modes — Field, Music, Podcast, Voice, ASMR, and Manual — with presets that configure gain, EQ, and limiting automatically for each scenario. Manual app supports multitrack overdubbing and punch in/out for layered production work. 32-bit float recording at up to 192 kHz captures the full dynamic range of the ADC without clipping, enabling level correction in post-production with no artifacts. TASCAM's Auto File Save System saves data approximately every 20 seconds during recording to minimize loss from unexpected power interruptions. As a USB audio interface, the Portacapture X8 operates driverlessly for plug-in-and-go DAW connection and live streaming via OBS or similar software. Power options include 4 AA batteries or USB bus power. The optional AK-BT1 Bluetooth adapter enables wireless remote control via the TASCAM Portacapture Control app on iOS and Android. The Portacapture X8 is available at Creation Networks alongside the optional AK-BT1 Bluetooth adapter.

Key Features

• 32-Bit Float Recording — Records without level setting required; audio captured at any gain can be corrected in post without quality loss.
• 6 Inputs / 8 Tracks — 4 XLR/TRS combo inputs with individual phantom power plus dual built-in mics recording to 8 tracks simultaneously.
• Up to 192 kHz Sample Rate — High-resolution recording for film, broadcast, and archival audio production.
• Touchscreen Launcher with Recording Modes — Purpose-specific presets for Field, Music, Podcast, Voice, ASMR, and Manual recording reduce setup time.
• Overdub and Punch I/O — Multitrack overdubbing and punch in/out in the Manual and Pocketstudio apps for layered production.
• Driverless USB Audio Interface — 6-in/2-out USB interface for DAW recording and live streaming without driver installation.
• Auto File Save System — Saves recording data every 20 seconds to minimize loss from power interruptions.
• AA Battery or USB Power — Field-deployable on 4 AA alkaline, NiMH, or lithium batteries, or USB bus power.

Typical Applications

• Film and video production location audio recording
• Documentary and news field recording
• Podcast and interview multi-person recording
• Music field recording and ambient capture
• Sound design and ASMR content production
• Live streaming USB audio interface

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does 32-bit float recording eliminate the need for gain setting?

32-bit float captures the full dynamic range of the ADC with no clipping ceiling. If audio is recorded too loud or too quiet, the level can be adjusted in post-production software without introducing noise or distortion artifacts.

How many tracks can the Portacapture X8 record simultaneously?

The X8 records up to 8 tracks simultaneously: 4 from XLR/TRS inputs, 2 from built-in mics, and 2 track stereo mix channels.

Does the Portacapture X8 work as a USB audio interface?

Yes. It operates as a driverless 6-in/2-out USB audio interface for DAW recording, live streaming via OBS, and video/audio conferencing without driver installation.

What is the optional Bluetooth adapter for?

The optional AK-BT1 Bluetooth adapter enables wireless remote control of the Portacapture X8 via the TASCAM Portacapture Control app on iOS and Android.

What warranty applies to the Portacapture X8?

TASCAM products purchased through authorized dealers including Creation Networks carry TASCAM's standard limited warranty.