MIXCAST4 - How to Utilize the Sound Pads

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through utilizing the sound pads on the TASCAM Mixcast 4, allowing you to add creativity and uniqueness to your podcast. With eight sound pads and multiple banks, you can easily enhance your production with jingles, sound effects, and more, increasing listener engagement.

Step 1: Access the Sound Pads

• Locate the sound pads on the Mixcast 4’s touchscreen.
• The default sounds include applause, an air horn, and a drum beat.
• Consider how these sounds can enhance your podcast, such as introducing guests or adding flair to segments.

Step 2: Use TASCAM Podcast Editor Software

• Open the TASCAM Podcast Editor Software included with your Mixcast 4.
• Click on the sound pads icon in the upper right corner to enter the sound pad editor.
• Choose a bank and select a pad to add sounds.

Step 3: Add Sounds to Pads

• To add a sound:
  • Click the ellipsis next to the highlighted pad and navigate to your sound effects folder.
  • Select the desired sound file.
• Alternatively, drag and drop the audio file directly onto the pad.
• Repeat this process for additional pads (up to 8 sounds per bank).

Step 4: Customize Playback Settings

• Change the color of each pad for easy identification.
• Select from six playback options:
  • Latch: Press once to play, press again to stop. Restarts from the beginning when pressed again.
  • Pause: Play and pause functionality.
  • RePlay: Plays the sound until the end or restarts from the beginning upon pressing.
  • One Shot: Plays sound to the end; press and hold to stop.
  • Repeat: Plays sound repeatedly until stopped.
  • Touch: Plays sound only while the pad is pressed.
• Use the advanced settings to modify effects, such as applying a bleep for sensitive content or adjusting reverb/pitch.

Step 5: Edit Sounds

• To edit sounds:
  • Select the desired sound file in the Podcast Editor.
  • Use the white boxes to trim the beginning or end of the audio.
  • Click apply edit to save your changes.

Step 6: Sync Changes to Mixcast 4

• After making edits, connect your Mixcast 4 to the computer.
• Click the sync button to save the new settings directly to the device.

Step 7: Record Original Sounds

• Access sound pad settings on the Mixcast.
• Navigate to an empty bank and select “pad record.”
• Raise the fader for the input channel (e.g., Bluetooth).
• Click record start and play the audio you wish to capture.
• Press record stop once finished, and name the new file.

Step 8: Assign and Edit New Sounds

• Assign a color to your newly recorded pad.
• For additional edits, return to the Podcast Editor to modify the sound further.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively utilize the sound pads on the TASCAM Mixcast 4 to enhance your podcast with creative audio effects. Experiment with different sounds and playback settings to engage your audience further. For additional support, refer to TASCAM’s resources or subscribe for more tutorials. Enjoy making your podcast unique!