TASCAM : HS-20 TASCAM

The TASCAM HS-20 is a professional solid-state audio recorder and player, built for the needs of network-connected installations. Reliable recording and playback can be controlled, accessed, and scheduled from an internet connection, allowing remote access without visiting the site. 

Recording and playback can be scheduled for automatic operation. A built-in FTP client and server are included in the HS-20, for either automated or manual file transfer and management. Record meetings, classes, or worship services on a regular schedule, then automatically upload the recording to a server and delete the recording, all without supervision. Or upload a new playlist for in-store music playback, including promotional announcements, all from a central location. 

The HS-20 records to either SD Card or Compact Flash media, at up to 192kHz/24-bit Broadcast WAV formats. Balanced and unbalanced connections are available on the rear panel, as well as RS-232C Serial and Parallel connections for wired remote control. It’s built on TASCAM’s more reliable recording platform, designed for broadcast use.

For automated recording or playback with network accessibility and control, TASCAM’s HS-20 is the only choice.

FTP client for uploading and downloading files to/from servers.

The included FTP client function allows the user to move files using a network computer, or from the HS-20 unit itself.

Automatic uploading function

After recording, the HS-20 can automatically upload recorded files to a designated server. This allows simple archive creation for recorded data. This is important for archiving regularly scheduled events like classes, lectures, worship services, and performances. Since uploading occurs in the background, recording and playback operations are not interrupted.

SNTP client function enables accurate time setting

The SNTP client functions of the HS-20 enable automatic synchronization of the date and time with an NTP server over the Internet. Automatic time synchronization can be set to occur whenever the unit is started, and every (24) hours.

Event lists with time-based management

Event lists enable the automatic playback of files such as background music and announcements - useful in retail stores and restaurants. Utilize the event lists for scheduled recording, playback, downloading and other events. By combining playback events with download events, audio files can be automatically retrieved from a server for playback. The HS-20 FTP server functions also enable centralized file management from a corporate headquarters to multiple locations - perfect for playing files simultaneously in a chain of retail stores.

SD/SDHC and Compact Flash Recording Media

In addition to Compact Flash cards (widely used in the broadcast industry), the HS-20 also supports SD and SDHC cards. The HS-20 was designed for solid-state recording - with no moving parts and immunity to vibration. This design ensures broadcast-level reliability and durability in any environment.

Touchscreen TFT color display allows intuitive operation

The HS-20 features a touchscreen color display. The graphical user interface is intuitive and easy to understand. Menus for inputs, outputs, and other settings are simple and on one screen. All parameters can be accessed by touching the screen and changing the settings. Compared to earlier displays that could only show small bits of information, this interface is complete and easy to use.

Network Access via 1000BASE-T (Gigabit) Ethernet 

The HS-20 supports 1000BASE-T Gigabit LAN and uses FTP as its work protocol. It can be accessed from any system, including Windows, Macintosh and UNIX. Inclusion of FTP functions allows file transfers between CF/SD cards and servers. This enables various applications, including loading of files onto a transfer system. In addition, this also provides an environment for remote control over a network. These features contribute to making systems and workflows more efficient. VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is also supported, allowing a VNC viewer application to operate the system from a computer by viewing the screen shown on this unit's LCD.

TASCAM Broadcast-Quality Operation and Reliability

The HS-20 utilizes a real-time operating system for fast start-up time and system operation. Files are automatically saved during recording about every (25) seconds to prevent loss of data due to unexpected power interruptions. Even removal of a memory card during operation will not stop the system.

• FTP client function support enables uploading and downloading files from the HS-20 without supervision
• FTP server function support enables uploading files to and downloading them from the HS-20 using an FTP client
• Event lists for recording, playback, downloading and other functions enabled with time-based management
• Uses SD/SDHC cards and CF cards (supports Ultra DMA)
• Mirror recording function between SD/SDHC and CF media
• Solid-state design with no moving parts for reliability and durability
• Editing functions and simple operation equivalent to a MiniDisc recorder
• 44.1/48/88.2/96/176.4/192kHz,16/24-bit resolutions supported
• Compatible with BWF and WAV files (playback only of WAV files)
• AES31 file import/export
• JPPA flash start playlist import/export
• Playlist mode allows takes to be added to a playlist and played back in the desired order
• Take mode handles recorded takes separately
• Touchscreen TFT color display allows intuitive operation
• Files can be copied between USB flash drives and CF/SD cards
• RC-HS20PD and RC-SS20 remote controls (sold separately) supported and can be used to flash start from 100 or 20 points, respectively
• Flash starting is also possible using parallel control, serial control or a keyboard
• FTP file transfer and remote control using telnet over 1000BASE-T LAN
• Real-time operating system reduces application stress and realizes quick operation and high stability
• VNC (Virtual Network Computing) supported
• 25-pin D-sub connector for parallel control
• 9-pin D-sub connector for RS-232C serial control
• Jog and shuttle functions.
• Auto cue, auto ready and incremental play functions
• Analog XLR/RCA outputs
• XLR AES/EBU digital inputs and outputs
• RCA S/PDIF digital inputs and outputs
• Headphone output
• Word clock input, output and thru
• PS/2 and USB keyboard connections
• BNC video reference (NTSC/PAL black burst and HDTV Tri-level signals) supported
• Timecode synchronization and RS-422 serial remote control can being supported by installing optional SY-2
• EIA 2U rack mount size
• RoHS compliant

By utilizing the high-speed data transfer of 1000BASE-T, sophisticated transmission systems can be created. Complete audio control is possible using the HS-20 on a local area network - including transport control and audio transfer.

In-store broadcasting system using the HS-20

Using one or more units, you can automatically distribute and start the playback of background music or custom in-store announcements from a central headquarters to several locations. By setting the units to download files at regular intervals using event lists, HS-20 units can automatically retrieve audio files from a central server. Retrieved audio can be played back according to the event list settings. The SNTP function allows scheduled playback with accurate time synchronization.

Management System for Sharing Meeting and Lecture Data

Recorded meeting files, classes, worship services, or performances can be uploaded immediately to a server with an automatic upload function that triggers when when recording stops. This enables recordings to be managed and shared immediately after recording. This feature can also be used for the transcription of minutes - allowing the data to be used on the server to start work quickly.

Broadcast System for Transportation Applications

In this system, files stored on a server are computer-synthesized, and transmitted via radio to vehicles in the field. 

Since audio signals can be transmitted by LAN, and machine control signals sent by parallel control, the separation of functions allows this system to be incorporated with existing facility equipment.