Tascam DM3200 - Mixing Consoles / Studio Signal Flow

The Tascam desk is a 32-track digital mixing console which we have the option of using within this module for recording and mixing during our recording assignment. Operating this desk requires the following workflow to get signal in, out, recorded and monitoring.

From the mic input the signal is sent to the stagebox, this is where the audio input track is specified as each 1-16 audio input to the stagebox directly corresponds to the track input on the desk, therefore using input 1 as the example the audio signal from the mic will enter into channel 1’s analog input section. If the mic is requiring phantom power then this is first activated on the top across groups of four channels along the inputs, pre-gain is then pushed from the trim panpots and with PFL solo enabled this can be monitored and set to an appropriate level.

This signal then being sent to layer 1 on the desk (Ch1-16) can be levelled for recording using the faders (acting as short-faders on this layer) and routed to whichever desired audio input within the DAW via the output assign buttons. This will then bring the signal to the DAW where the track can be set to the same input to match that which was set in the output assign, arming the track should then display the signal being routed in to record.

At this point there is no monitoring / mixing path established for the signal for playback, therefore we need to send the signal back out to the desk via the channel out within the DAW, this being again for example being sent on output 17 will bring the signal back into the desk on channel 17 in layer 2 (CH17-32) which utilises the same fader used as the short fader on layer one, making the two different layers effectively switch between SF and LF for each channel.

This signal then brought back to the desk can be soloed and monitored before then being sent to the stereo mix within the output assign to playback on the control room monitors. The control room monitor level is set by CR pan-pot in the top right, other functionalities such as EQ, inserts and aux sends are configured within the control section menu.

Overview of DM-3200 -
Tascam Owner’s Manual, pg 14 - https://www.tascam.eu/en/docs/DM-3200_Owners_Manual_E.pdf - TEAC Corp