You’ve recorded dozens of podcasts for your business, but you realize the equipment you’re using might leave something to be desired. The biggest offender is your current mixer — which is why you’ve been looking at the TASCAM Mixcast 4.
The TASCAM Mixcast 4 is a podcast workstation that serves as a USB interface with a built-in recorder. It’s frequently used by professional podcasters and B2B companies looking for a simpler way to record at scale.
There are a lot of reasons to recommend this powerful tool — but it’s not the best solution for every podcaster. This guide covers everything you need to know so you can make an informed decision for your business needs.
Let’s jump in.
- TASCAM Mixcast 4 at a glance
- TASCAM Mixcast 4 features
- TASCAM Mixcast 4 hardware
- How to use the TASCAM Mixcast 4
- Alternatives to the TASCAM Mixcast 4
- The bottom line on TASCAM Mixcast 4
TASCAM Mixcast 4 at a glance
What are the features, specs, and limitations of the TASCAM Mixcast 4? You can use this chart to get the details at a glance.
| Recording Media | USB Connector | Sampling Rate | Recording Format | Inputs and Outputs | Included Items | Price |
| SD cards (64 MB to 2 GB), SDHC cards (4 GB to 32 GB), SDXC cards (48 GB to 512 GB) | USB Type-C | 48 kHz | 24-bit / 48kHz WAV | 14 channels in, 2 channels out | AC adapter, USB Type-C to Type-C cable, Owner’s manual and warranty, TASCAM ID registration guide | $399.00 USD |
Curious what all this means?
Discover how the TASCAM Mixcast 4 compares to other podcast mixers in our comprehensive guide, or keep reading for a full breakdown of its features.
TASCAM Mixcast 4 features
The TASCAM Mixcast 4 bills itself as a complete podcast studio solution. With it, you can record, edit, and mix your podcast all on the same simple tool. Since the mixer itself retails for $400 USD, it may be more cost-effective than purchasing dedicated podcast recording software and podcast editing software separately.
Let’s talk through a few of its features:
- Touchscreen: The TASCAM’s easy-to-use touchscreen is a standout feature for selecting options, editing audio, and mixing audio. Not every mixer offers these kinds of features, including Maonocaster’s E2 and Lite.
- Four mic inputs: You can connect up to four people to a single TASCAM Mixcast — and up to seven if you count phone conversations and other sound sources. Plus, the auto-mix function can capture quality audio without additional work on your part.
- Sound pad: Users can have up to eight different audio files connected to the TASCAM’s eight-button sound pad. You can also add various effects to your audio, which can help your podcast stand out from the crowd.
- Mix Minus: Want to host call-ins during your show? You can use the Mix Minus feature to connect calls through Bluetooth or a four-pole audio cable.
- TASCAM Podcast Editor: You can download the TASCAM Podcast Editor for free so you can edit your audio files. It’s not a bad option for on-the-go edits, but you may want an alternative podcast editing software depending on your needs.
You can also use the TASCAM Mixcast 4 for live streaming, which is a neat feature if you plan to host live shows. Just keep in mind you might need to set a USB delay if you want your audio and video to match up perfectly.
TASCAM Mixcast 4 pros
- Simple-to-use touchscreen
- Free software for podcast editing
- Extremely user-friendly (especially for beginners)
- Options for phone call-ins
- Up to eight different buttons for audio or effects
TASCAM Mixcast 4 cons
- TASCAM Podcast Editor is somewhat limited
- You can only move audio files to the sound pad using the TASCAM Podcast Editor
TASCAM Mixcast 4 hardware
There are no surprises with the TASCAM Mixcast. What you see is what you get.
The hardware is both simple and easy to use:
- Eight rubber buttons for triggering audio and effects loaded to the sound pad
- Eight long-throw faders for adjusting your mix, including controls for four direct inputs and a Bluetooth connection
- Five knobs — one for your stereo monitor and four for your headphones
- A touchpad to access more in-depth features (many of which you likely don’t need)
There are also a few accessories sold separately, including:
- A carrying bag for Mixcast 4 CS-PCAS20
- A dynamic microphone for broadcast streaming TM-70
How to use the TASCAM Mixcast 4
Thanks to its intuitive touchscreen and easy-to-master controls, you can start recording with the TASCAM Mixcast 4 relatively quickly.
Let’s walk through a hypothetical recording session so you can learn the basics. You can also check out the step-by-step video below this list.
- Plug the TASCAM Mixcast 4 power cord into an outlet and connect your microphone(s).
- Tap the upper left corner of the touchscreen to enter the menu.
- Tap the icon that looks like a four-part window and select Mic One.
- Adjust your settings as desired.
- Raise the fader for channel one and make sure you see movement on your display.
- Connect headphones to their corresponding mic channel and raise the volume until you can hear the mix.
- Snap in your SD card to begin collecting data and tap ‘yes’ on the touchscreen to authorize file creation.
- Press the record button above the touchscreen to start recording your podcast.
- When you’re ready to stop, press the stop button and confirm you want to wrap your session on the touchpad.
- Enter a name for your podcast (you’re prompted to do this, so no worries about forgetting!)
- To listen to your recent audio recordings, tap the play symbol on the menu screen and select your audio file
- Connect the mixer to your computer to begin transferring your audio files.
- Tap the SD card settings button on the menu screen and turn on SD device mode.
- Open the new Mixcast 4 drive on your computer and find your .wav file in the PODCAST folder.
You can now upload your podcast to any relevant platform or import it to TASCAM Podcast Editor, although there are a few further steps we usually recommend. For example, as most hosting companies won’t accept .wav files you might want to convert your .wav file to an .mp3 file, ensuring easier distribution. You might also want to have a professional do an audio edit and production of your podcast file. Then, you can work on promoting your podcast and gathering an audience of dedicated listeners.
Alternatives to the TASCAM Mixcast 4
If the TASCAM Mixcast 4 doesn’t check enough boxes for you, there’s always a competitor around.
Some of the mixers we like to recommend to our clients include:
Maonocaster E2
The Maonocaster E2 is a slightly cheaper mixer missing the TASCAM’s touchpad screen. Although it only has two mic inputs and a simplified interface, you still have access to eight sound pad buttons and fades for your channels. If you’re looking to get into live-streamed audio (or want to pay less for a mixer), the Maonocaster E2 may be in your best interests.
You can learn more about the Maonocaster E2 in our comprehensive guide.
Maonocaster Lite
The Maonocaster Lite is exactly what you think it is — a slightly more condensed version of the Maonocaster E2. It’s perfect for basic voice-overs or smaller podcast shows, although the eight pre-formatted sound buttons may be frustrating to those looking for more customization. Still, if you want to pay even less (read: $119.99) for a mixer that gets the job done, the Maonocaster Lite is likely a great option for you.
You’re welcome to read our guide to the Maonocaster Lite for additional details.
ZOOM PodTrak P8
Like the TASCAM Mixcast 4, the ZOOM PodTrak P8 serves as a multitrack mixer, recorder, and audio interface. It’s also a bit more of a ‘prosumer’ device, which means it’s a little more accessible for intermediate podcasters. Keep in mind this mixer is more expensive than the TASCAM — prices usually start at $549.99.
If you’d like to learn more about it, see all its specs and read our opinion on it, check out our guide about it here.
The bottom line on TASCAM Mixcast 4
The TASCAM Mixcast 4 is an excellent workstation for beginner podcast producers. It’s also a plug-and-play solution for business podcasts, but be warned — it still takes time to learn.
If you’re looking to scale up podcast production or want to avoid bad habits and follow best-practices, it may be worth partnering with an expert to help you determine next steps.
Whether you’re looking to launch a new podcast, find a professional for production and editing, or would like to do an audit of your podcast, we’ll help you get set up for success. We’ve produced thousands of episodes for hundreds of clients — and we’d love to help you, too.
Curious to see how TPC can help? You can learn more about our podcasting services for businesses, or by scheduling a quick call with us today.