A multi-track recorder is an all-in-one solution for musicians who want to record and mix their own music without the need for a laptop or computer. Typically equipped with standard effects such as EQ, compression, reverb and delay, multi-track recorders allow you to record multiple tracks at once and save them to an SD card.
DAW Software vs. Portable 8 or 16-Track Recorders
Nowadays, computers and DAW software rule the music industry - their advantage being that you get to determine the extent of your set-up, and whether you use a basic or a more comprehensive audio interface. Not only that, DAW packs can usually be expanded with countless effect-and-instrument plug-ins. Meanwhile, multi-track recorders keep things more manageable, setting you up with a fixed number of a tracks and a fixed collection of built-in effects. Also, since everything comes crammed into one device, you won't have to worry about compatibility issues either.
Handheld Recorders vs. Recording Interfaces With Mixers
Multi-track recorders are cut out for musicians who prefer the feel of real faders and buttons instead of software-based interfaces. What's more, with a multi-track recorder you can produce your own songs from start to finish without the need for a computer. Outside of the music industry, standalone recorders like handheld recorders are popular among podcasters and journalists. You can even find podcast-recorders these days, and we also stock multi-track field recorders for film shoots: reinforced recorders with extra features such as time-code registration and hot-swappable batteries.
Multi-Track Recorder Apps
You can also download a multi-track recorder app on your smartphone or tablet and add a mobile audio interface. This sets you up with multiple high-quality audio inputs and enables you to capture audio on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions About Multi-Track Recorders
What's a multi-track recorder?
Multi-track recorders can be used to record multiple audio sources at once and edit and mix the individual tracks afterwards.
What do I need to record multi-track audio?
To record multiple tracks at the same time, you'll need hardware fitted with multiple inputs, so either a multi-track recorder or an audio interface in combination with DAW software.