According to Tascam, the new FR-AV2 is based on a dual analog-to-digital (ADC) converter, designed to support 32-bit float point record capability with support for sample rates up to 192kHz. Recordings are captured with greater dynamic range and clarity — making it impossible to clip the recording. When editing audio recorded in 32-bit float, quiet passages can be brought up in level while louder parts can be scaled down — without introducing any additional noise. The FR-AV2 is also unique in the fact that it supports a 192kHz sample rate, which no other recorder of this size on the market offers. Recordings are in WAV format at 48kHz, 96kHz, and 192kHz, with BEXT and iXML metadata stored in SDXC cards (up to 512GB).
With the addition of the optional AK-BT2 Bluetooth adapter, users can monitor the source audio wirelessly using any Bluetooth enabled headphones and earbuds. This is valuable given the compact size of the FR-AV2, allowing for a camera rig with the audio recorder attached, while the camera operator or others in location are able to hear what is being recorded, check how their microphone placement sounds, pay attention to any unwanted background noises, etc. All the while, knowing that everything that is being recorded is free from clipping or distortion in the signal level thanks to 32-bit float technology.
For larger projects, the FR-AV2 and the optional AK-BT2 Bluetooth adapter can be used in combination with the downloadable Tascam Recorder Connect app for external confidence recording. And users can control all the parameters of their recorders while expanding their system up to five FR-AV2 units, including control of the Tascam DR-10L Pro ultra-compact 32-bit float recorder with lavalier microphone.
For critical recording tasks, intuitive operation, a compact form factor, and an easy-to-read display are crucial. Easily fitting within the palm of one's hand, the FR-AV2 can fit into any size film/video rig. Whether it is a full-sized cinematic camera or a significantly smaller iPhone content creator setup, the FR-AV2 is small enough to avoid being burdensome or occupying precious real estate. Further, the 2-inch color LCD display makes using the product much easier, without any need to dive through a convoluted menu system.
Timecode and synchronization are vitally important to today's video production tasks and, in this regard, the FR-AV2 does not disappoint. The FR-AV2 can generate timecode, which enables videographers to conveniently synchronize their cameras and audio together. Additionally, the recorder can synchronize and receive timecode from other timecode gear, and for those who use it, JamSync is also available. In addition, Bluetooth wireless timecode synchronization is also possible using the AK-BT2 adapter and Atomos UltraSync BLUE products.
Adding to the multiple functions, the FR-AV2 includes a low-cut filter, compressor, limiter, and noise gate on the audio inputs. For more complex productions, it offers adjustable input delay to compensate for distance between microphones [0-300 ms], and output delay adjustment to compensate for camera video and audio output [0-300 ms]. There are even mark and auto-slate tone functions.
The FR-AV2 (USD $399.00 retail) features dual XLR/TRS combo jack inputs with an EIN (Equivalent Input Noise) of -127dBu supporting any type of audio source signal, thanks to the integrated Tascam Ultra HDDA preamps. Adding even greater versatility, the new FR-AV2 can function both as a standalone recorder or as a USB audio interface. The FR-AV2 can be connected to iOS devices, Mac, or PC computers, and be used as a 2-In/2-Out USB audio interface via the USB-C port.
www.tascam.com
