Professional Audio Recording Without the Guesswork
The Tascam DR-05XP makes capturing high-quality audio simple. Whether you're recording band rehearsals, songwriting ideas, podcasts, interviews, lessons, field recordings or video audio, the DR-05XP delivers professional results in a compact handheld recorder that's easy to carry anywhere.
Its standout feature is 32-bit floating-point recording, letting you record without worrying about input levels. Loud sounds, quiet sounds and unexpected volume changes can all be captured cleanly without clipping or distortion, making it an excellent choice for musicians, content creators, videographers and educators.
With built-in stereo condenser microphones, USB-C connectivity and the ability to function as a 2-in/2-out audio interface, the DR-05XP is much more than just a portable recorder.
Why You'll Love It
- 32-Bit Float Recording – Capture audio without worrying about setting recording levels or clipping distortion.
- Built-In Stereo Condenser Microphones – Delivers detailed, natural recordings straight out of the box.
- Built-In Speaker – Quickly review recordings on the spot without needing headphones or external speakers.
- Handles Loud Sound Sources – Microphones can handle sound pressure levels up to 125dB SPL, making them suitable for rehearsals, concerts, and live events.
- Portable & Easy to Use – Simple one-handed operation allows you to start recording quickly.
- USB-C Audio Interface Functionality – Use as a 2-in/2-out audio interface for recording directly to your Mac or PC.
- Supports microSDXC Cards up to 512GB – Plenty of storage for long recording sessions.
- Built-In Tuner – Convenient for musicians preparing to record.
- Overdub Recording – Layer additional recordings over existing tracks.
- Variable Speed Playback – Slow down recordings for transcription, learning and practice.
- Battery Powered – Up to 17.5 hours of operation using just two AA batteries.
Our Take
The DR-05XP is one of those products that solves a problem many people don't realise they have until it's too late.
Traditional portable recorders require careful level setting before recording. Get it wrong, and your recording can distort beyond repair. The DR-05XP's 32-bit float technology removes that stress entirely, making it incredibly forgiving for beginners while still offering the quality professionals expect.
For musicians, it's an excellent rehearsal and songwriting recorder. For teachers and students, it's ideal for recording lessons and performances. For content creators and videographers, it provides a huge upgrade over built-in camera or smartphone microphones.
The addition of USB-C audio interface functionality makes it even more versatile, allowing it to serve double duty as both a field recorder and desktop recording interface.
At this price point, it's one of the most capable portable recorders available.
Specifications
Recording Formats
- WAV (32-bit Float, 24-bit, 16-bit)
- MP3
- Sample Rates: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 96kHz
Microphones
- Built-In Stereo Condenser Microphones
- Maximum SPL: 125dB
Storage
- microSDXC Card Support
- Maximum Capacity: 512GB
Connectivity
- USB-C
- Stereo Mini Mic/Line Input
- Plug-In Power for External Microphones
- Stereo Headphone/Line Output
Recording Features
- 32-Bit Float Recording
- Auto Record
- Pre Record
- Self Timer
- Overdub Recording
- Limiter
- Peak Reduction
- Marker Function
- Playlist Function
Audio Tools
- Built-In Chromatic Tuner
- Reverb Effect
- Variable Speed Audition (0.5x – 2.0x)
- Four Low-Cut Filter Settings (40Hz, 80Hz, 120Hz, 220Hz)
Display
- Backlit 128 × 64 Graphic LCD
Power
- 2 × AA Batteries
- Up to 17.5 Hours Battery Life
Additional Features
- Built-In Speaker
- Tripod Mount
- Auto Tone Output for DSLR Cameras
- Multi-Language Menu Support