760 Chapter 26
the record button is engaged on the tape transport buttons) switch the track to record. The
mixer also incorporates two send–return loops and the extra line level inputs mentioned
earlier. In addition, an extra monitor mixer is provided, the output of this being selectable
via the monitor output. It is thus a tiny split multitrack console. Despite the inevitable
compromises inherent in such a piece of equipment, many portable multitrack units are
capable of remarkably high quality and many have been used to record and mix release-
quality material. Indeed, so popular has this format proved to be that digital versions have
begun to appear, products that offer musical notebook convenience with exemplary sound
quality. One such is illustrated in Figure 26.10.
Figure 26.10 : Roland digital multitrack.