When digital multitrack recording became the new standard, DTRS (Digital Tape Recording System) quickly became a go-to format for professional studios. Often referred to as “DA-88 tapes” after TASCAM’s popular recorder, DTRS provided an affordable and dependable way to record up to eight digital audio tracks on a single cassette. Studios could link multiple machines together to create larger recording systems, making DTRS a favorite for music production, broadcast audio, live concert recording, post-production, and houses of worship throughout the 1990s and early 2000s.
Many of these recordings still contain original multitrack sessions that have never been transferred to a computer or backed up. As DTRS tapes continue to age and the specialized playback machines become increasingly difficult to service, preserving these recordings becomes more important than ever. Without properly maintained equipment, valuable recordings can become inaccessible.
At LA Video Transfer, we specialize in preserving DTRS recordings using professional playback equipment designed specifically for the format. Each recorded track can be digitized individually, allowing you to remix, restore, edit, archive, or continue working with your recordings in today’s digital audio software. Whether you’re preserving a studio master, recovering a live performance, or revisiting recordings from years past, we’ll help ensure your projects remain accessible for years to come.

