Orders placed during Passover Holiday (Wed 4/1 after 4PM ET – Thurs 4/9) will ship Fri 4/10. View our holiday shipping schedule.

Overview
Compare
Specs
Protection
Q&A

Questions & Answers

FAQ

What languages does the Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder support?

The Tascam DR-05X supports 10 languages: English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Russian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Portuguese.

How long can the Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder record for?

With just two AA batteries, the Tascam DR-05X can record for up to 17.5 hours. It can also be powered by a USB mobile battery for even longer use.

What additional features does the Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder have?

The Tascam DR-05X features an auto tone function for easy on-site movie editing, a slate tone generator for easy track making and recognition, and an overwrite mode for punch-in recording from a desired point.

What does the bundle with the Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder include?

The bundle with the Tascam DR-05X includes a rapid battery charger and a 32GB memory card.

Can the Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder be used for live streaming and podcasting?

Yes, when connected to a PC, the Tascam DR-05X can be used for voiceover work, live streaming, podcasting, and songwriting, delivering studio-quality audio.

Shopper : Why Did You Choose This?ROBERT H : I have used one of a friend and loved it, plus have owned tascam products beforeJESSICA D : SchoolTERENCE R : Need it!JAMES H : I have something to sayKARLYN B : My son recommended this for my voice over Audio project

Reviews about this item

Review Summary

2022-12-21T08:13:04

Rated 5 out of 5

Great handheld recorder

I was looking for a handheld recorder with affordable price. I have read many reviews, and this recorder is among the best in the price range. It is definitely better than the Zoom H1n in the same price range for orchestra music recording. I brought this Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder from Adorama during the Cyber Week 2022. The price was very good. With $10 more than the very attractive on-sale price, I also got some accessories including a soft case, a hand grip stick, and an AC charger. I took this recorder to my orchestra rehearsal the next week for a test. The sound is very good for such a small device! I can carry this recorder in my pocket, while I used to carry my laptop and two bulky UBS microphones to record my orchestra and chamber music sessions. To be honest, this device will not replace the high-end recording equipment for orchestra music because its lower frequency response is a little lacking. But for such a small and convenient device, it is well worth the money. Adorama is a great vender. The accessory package somehow was missing a windscreen. I contacted Adorama Customer Service, they went extra miles and got it for me from the supplier, even though it was not their fault. I bought some camera and audio equipment from them before, I also had good experience.

C Z.

2022-01-25T16:55:11

Rated 5 out of 5

Very fine product

Works great, fast shipping!

VINCENT H.

2021-02-12T07:38:07

Rated 5 out of 5

Powerful with lots of features

We picked this up to help our kids with story telling and getting their thoughts down. We then help transcribe the recordings for them.

Scott W.

2021-02-08T07:44:53

Rated 5 out of 5

Good item. Fast shipping

Good product. Very happy with it

ABRAHAM J.

2021-01-26T14:06:48

Rated 5 out of 5

Hand held recorder

Great product. Works great.

SCOTT K.

2020-03-06T06:35:19

Rated 5 out of 5

Excellent recorder

Excellent recorder, and conserve long life bateries.

FREDDY R.

2019-08-22T11:57:30

Rated 4 out of 5

Tascam DR-O5X great recording sound

The Tascam DR-05X is a great digital audio recorder...takes a little study with the manual and reference guide but once you get the hang of it the quality if good.

AL W.

2019-08-13T20:41:11

Rated 5 out of 5

Best portable recorded I eve had

Great device. Not only the audio recording quality is superb, I can use it as an audio interface and usb mic with my laptop and even with my iphone/ipad (with a camera adapter). It feels solid and sturdy in my hand. One of the best purchases I made this past few months.

Jose K.

2019-08-02T08:52:28

Rated 5 out of 5

Impressive Audio Quality

I didn't expect much from this recorder, but I am impressed with the audio quality for the price. There are also a variety of options to tweak the recording settings to adapt the recording to various environments. I'm very satisfied with this purchase.

Christopher P.

2018-07-12T07:46:19

Rated 5 out of 5

No worries about low batteries.

Does what it was intended to do.

John P.

Tascam DR-05X Specifications

Portable Recorder

Portable Recorder

Jump to...
  • Number of Tracks

    WAV: 2

  • Max Sample Rate/Resolution

    96 kHz / 24-Bit

  • Microphone

    Built-In Omnidirectional Condenser Stereo Pair, A/B Configuration

  • Built-In Speaker

    Yes, 0.3 W Mono

  • Display

    Monochrome LCD (Backlit)

  • Memory Card Support

    microSD (64 MB 2 GB)
    microSDHC (4 GB to 32 GB)
    microSDXC (48 Up to 128 GB)

  • Internal Storage

    None

Recording

Jump to...
  • Audio File Formats

    BWF, MP3, WAV

  • Sample Rates

    WAV: 44.1 / 48 / 96 kHz

  • Bit Depth

    16/24-Bit

  • Bit Rates

    32 to 320 kb/s (Record)
    32 to 320 kb/s + VBR (Playback)

  • Signal Processing

    Auto Gain, EQ, Limiter, Low-Cut Filter, Reverb

  • Timecode

    None

  • Recording Time

    WAV 44.1 kHz/16-Bit: 1 Hr 41 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    WAV 48 kHz/16-Bit: 1 Hr 33 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    WAV 96 kHz/16-Bit: 46 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    WAV 44.1 kHz/24-Bit: 1 Hr 7 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    WAV 48 kHz/24-Bit: 1 Hr 2 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    WAV 96 kHz/24-Bit: 31 Mins per GB (Stereo)

  • Recording Time (Contd.)

    MP3 32 kb/s: 74 Hrs 32 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    MP3 64 kb/s: 37 Hrs 16 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    MP3 96 kb/s: 24 Hrs 50 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    MP3 128 kb/s: 18 Hrs 38 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    MP3 192 kb/s: 12 Hrs 25 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    MP3 256 kb/s: 9 Hrs 19 Mins per GB (Stereo)
    PCM 320 kb/s: 7 Hrs 27 Mins per GB (Stereo)

Connectivity

Jump to...
  • Analog I/O

    1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Female Unbalanced Line/Mic Input
    1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Female Unbalanced Headphone/Line Output

  • Digital I/O

    None

  • Phantom Power

    None

  • Plug-In Power

    Yes

  • Host Connection

    1 x Micro-USB (USB 2.0)

Performance

Jump to...
  • Frequency Response

    20 Hz to 20 kHz +1/-3 dB (At 44.1 kHz, JEITA)
    20 Hz to 22 kHz +1/-3 dB (At 48 kHz, JEITA)
    20 Hz to 40 kHz +1/-3 dB (At 96 kHz, JEITA)

  • Max Input Level

    Mic/Line Inputs: -4 dBV

  • Max Output Level

    Line Outputs: +2 dBV

  • Headphone Output Power

    20 mW per Channel into 32 Ohms

  • Impedance

    Mic/Line Inputs:
    >=18 kOhms (Plug-In Power Off)
    >=2 kOhms (Plug-In Power On)

    Line Outputs:
    12 Ohms

  • SNR

    Line Inputs: >=92 dB

  • THD

    <=0.05%

  • Microphone Max SPL

    125 dB SPL

  • Power Options

    Batteries, USB Bus Power, AC/DC Power Adapter

  • Battery Type

    2 x AA (Included)

  • Approximate Battery Life

    WAV 44.1 kHz/16-Bit:
    17.5 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, without Headphones)
    16.5 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, with Headphones)
    14.5 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, without Headphones)
    14 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, with Headphones)

  • Approximate Battery Life (Contd.)

    WAV 96 kHz/24-Bit:
    15.5 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, without Headphones)
    14 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, with Headphones)
    12.5 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, without Headphones)
    13 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, with Headphones)

  • Approximate Battery Life (Contd.)

    WAV 96 kHz/24-Bit:
    15.5 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, without Headphones)
    14 Hours (Alkaline, 2 Channels, with Headphones)
    12.5 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, without Headphones)
    13 Hours (NiMH, 2 Channels, with Headphones)

  • AC/DC Power Adapter

    VDC Not Included

Physical

Jump to...
  • Mounting Options

    1/4"-20 Female

  • Operating Temperature

    32 to 104 Degree F (0 to 40 Degree C)

  • Dimensions

    2.4 x 5.6 x 1" (61 x 141 x 26mm)

  • Weight

    4.2 oz (119g) (Without Batteries)
    5.8 oz (165g) (With Batteries)

  • UPC Code

    192223127289

About Tascam DR-05X

FEATURED REVIEWS

Impressive Audio Quality

By Christopher P.

I didn't expect much from this recorder, but I am impressed with the audio quality for the price. There are also a variety of options to tweak the recording settings to adapt the recording to various environments. I'm very satisfied with this purchase.

Great handheld recorder

By C Z.

I was looking for a handheld recorder with affordable price. I have read many reviews, and this recorder is among the best in the price range. It is definitely better than the Zoom H1n in the same price range for orchestra music recording. I brought this Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder from Adorama during the Cyber Week 2022. The price was very good. With $10 more than the very attractive on-sale price, I also got some accessories including a soft case, a hand grip...

View full Review

Before you settle for any handheld recorder, consider the Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder. This high-quality, durable device sets a new standard in portable audio recording technology. Its simple interface, coupled with powerful features, makes it an ideal choice for recording meetings, music, audio-for-video, dictation, and more.

The DR-05X is designed for easy operation, with a revamped layout that allows you to control all functions with just one thumb. Whether you're recording, adjusting levels, deleting takes, or adding markers, everything is just a button press away.

This versatile recorder boasts dual internal condenser microphones that can handle a wide range of volumes, from subtle whispers to loud sounds up to 125dB SPL. Its sensitivity ensures every detail is captured, delivering clean and clear audio no matter where you are.

The DR-05X supports 10 languages, including English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, Russian, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Portuguese, making it a user-friendly device for a global audience.

With its extended battery life, the DR-05X can record for up to 17.5 hours using just two AA batteries. It can also be powered by a USB mobile battery for even longer use.

The DR-05X is more than just a handheld recorder. Connect it to a PC and it transforms into a tool for voiceover work, live streaming, podcasting, and songwriting, delivering studio-quality audio. Its built-in microphones function as USB microphones, eliminating the need for complicated driver installations.

The DR-05X also features an auto tone function for easy on-site movie editing, a slate tone generator for easy track making and recognition, and an overwrite mode for punch-in recording from a desired point. It supports a microSDXC card, allowing you to record up to 192 hours of CD-quality sound or up to 896 hours in MP3/320kbps mode.

This bundle includes a rapid battery charger and a 32GB memory card, adding even more value and convenience. With the Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder, you're not just buying a device, you're investing in a high-quality, easy-to-use, and versatile tool for all your audio recording needs.

Tascam DR-05X Features

  • Stereo omni directional condenser microphones
  • Support multiple menu languages (ENG/FRA/DEU/ITA/ESP/RUS/PRT/JPN/CHI/KOR)
  • Overwrite function for Punch-In recording with one level of Undo
  • Functions as a 2in/ 2out USB Audio Interface for Mac, PC or iOS recording
  • Dictation mode designed for human voice recording and transcription
  • Reverb effect for vocal and instrument resonance
  • Auto recording function that can detect the sound input signal level and automatically start recording
  • Proven high sound pressure design for capturing loud sounds of up to 125dB SPL
  • Peak reduction function
  • Self timer recording function
  • Seamless gain control
  • Three low cut filter levels (40/80/120Hz)
  • Speed change (VSA) function for adjusting the speed from 0.5 to 2.0 times (in 0.1 increments)
  • Level align feature that prevents uneven volume levels
  • Equalizer setting for adjusting playback sound quality
  • Divide/delete functions
  • Loop/repeat playback function
  • Resume function that retains the last stop position and starts playback from that position when power is turned back ON
  • Jump back and play (1 to 10 sec in 1 sec increments, 10 sec, 20 sec, 30 sec)
  • QUICK menu button for easy access to various functions
  • High-quality 96kHz/24-bit WAV/BWF linear PCM recording and long recordings as MP3 files possible
  • microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC (up to 128GB) cards can be used as recording media
  • Mark function that can set up to 99 points for a single track Mark information can be utilized by BWF compatible software
  • Audio files created on computers can be played (Only in formats compatible with this product)
  • Built-in monaural speaker with an output of 0.3W
  • Pre-recording buffer that can record up to 2 seconds prior to starting recording
  • When a predetermined maximum file size is reached, a new file is created to continue recording
  • Track increment creates new files at arbitrary locations during recording
  • File name format can be set to use a user-defined word or the date
  • The first six characters of the file name for recording can be set freely
  • Playlist function
  • A chromatic tuner is equipped which is helpful for practicing musical instruments
  • Stereo mini jack for external stereo microphones (provides plug-in power) / External line input
  • Stereo mini line output / Headphone output connector
  • 128 x64 pixel graphic LCD with backlight
  • High-speed file transfer to a computer is possible using USB 2.0
  • Powered by 2 AA batteries, USB bus power, or optional AC adapter (PS-P520E)
  • Tripod attachment screw-hole built in to the unit

Product Documents

User Manual

Key Features

  • Bundle includes a rapid battery charger and a 32GB memory card for added value and convenience

What's in the box:

  • DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital-Audio Recorder with USB Audio Interface
  • 2x AA Alkaline Batteries
  • Tascam 1 Year Limited Warranty
  • Bundle With:
  • Rapid Battery Charger
  • 32GB Memory Card