TASCAM 2488mkII Portastudio

The TASCAM 2488mkII is an all-in-one hard-disk multitrack recorder having eight inputs and 24 tracks. Four of the inputs include XLR connections. One input has a front-panel hi-Z input suitable for use with a guitar. There are also S/PDIF connections for digital audio I/O and a USB connection for file transfers. A built-in CD writer can be used to back up your work and created audio CDs; the writer supports both write-once and rewritable CDs. A highly-legible LCD display serves multiple purposes depending upon the mode. Clearly-marked buttons and controls support the most common functions.

The manual is thin but complete, reflecting the relatively simple functionality of the 2488mkII. I found the simplicity of the 2488 to be a pleasant change from the studio rack system I had built in 2000 and 2001.