"Introducing the TASCAM Porta One Mini Studio, a portable analog recorder
that offers 4 tracks and features cassette functionality. With 2 line
inputs and 4 mic inputs, this model is perfect for musicians and audio
professionals looking for a high-quality recording device. The analog in
and out ports provide clear, crisp sound, and the compact form factor
makes it easy to take on the go.
Made in Japan, this model boasts a number of impressive features,
including its ability to record on 4 tracks simultaneously and the
option to use both analog in and out ports. Whether you're a musician
looking to record your latest masterpiece or an audio professional in
need of a reliable recorder, the TASCAM Porta One Mini Studio has got
you covered." ---[that's what eBay's AI says]
Here are my details:
Included in this offering is the TASCAM Porta One
itself, a TEAC mic that was part of the package (but seems not to work), the power supply, a
carrying case and strap, a case for the mic, the manuals and studio log
sheet shown in the pictures, and a small white envelope containing the
broken FF belt and a couple spare rubber bands. The Porta One is in working condition, as far as my testing shows.
I bought this in 1986 to use as a field recorder for music festivals, mostly the Philadelphia Folk Festival, which is located near me. Any knowledgeable person would recognize that it was too "ambitious" a tool for the job. I have only ever used 2 tracks, for 2 mics. I never used the mixers, or frankly any of the other features that this machine offers. I assume they all work. I have a handful of cassettes, from 1986, 1987, and 1991, which were my last field recordings. This recorder has been on the shelf ever since. The main concern with a machine like this is the rubber drive belts. When I fired it up, I found that it played a cassette just fine, but would not rewind or fast forward. I learned that there are three drive belts, the FF/Rew one lies on top, and is very thin. It was broken. I replaced it with an ordinary rubber band that fit, and retested. FF/Rew now works, but the buyer may want to obtain a proper belt from the company.
I made clumsy video attempts meant to show that the device does record, and that it plays back. Not being an experienced YouTube video creator, the result is not worth showing here. However, I can say that, using a mic, I did record a test count onto the tape, channel 1, rewound, and played it successfully.
I have no reason to believe that any of the functions do not work, but given that this has been on the shelf for 30+ years, I am offering it AS IS.