Tascam M-208 & M-216 - How to Add Direct Outputs

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Note: This is an early draft based on internal tech notes. It’s not the final article, but due to repeated requests, we’re sharing the current version. If you have feedback, feel free to send suggestions.

Please note: the power supply on the larger M series desks will not power full implementation of direct output mods (maximum of 8 direct outs on the M216). We cannot offer further info on other models.

Overview: Direct Output Modification

This mod replaces the 8x RCA Tape In sockets with 1/4" jack direct outputs - post-fader, post-EQ, and parallel to the pan pot and effect bus.

Key Benefits:

• Individual channel outputs for multitrack recording
  
  

• Post-fader signal = less interference with bus output
  
  

• Option to push both the preamp and bus amp for analog saturation
  
  

• Behaves similarly to direct outs on the Tascam M-30 and Model 3
  

• Disclaimer

  Please read before proceeding:

  • No liability accepted. Attempting this mod assumes a good working knowledge of electronics.
    
    

  • We cannot respond to emails about the modification steps - though suggestions to improve this guide are welcome.
    
    

  • Your mixer should be fully serviced and electrically safe before beginning this work.
    

BEFORE AND AFTER

Rear view before modification:

Rear view after modification:

• 1. Prep the Mixer

  • Service the unit first
    
    

  • With channels removed, start by:
    
    

  • Removing metal clips from the jack plate
    
    

  • Desolder and remove the jack plate
    
    

  • Remove RCA Tape In connectors (8 on M-208, first 8 on M-216)
    
    

  • Reinstall the jack plate, attach mod jacks using the supplied plastic nuts
    
    

   

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  2. Soldering the Mod

  • Solder the positive and ground wires of the mod tail to each side of R139 (solder side of the PCB)
    
    

  • Follow the solder mask to identify ground
    
    

  • Let the cable run neatly across the back of the board to avoid interference when refitting
    
    

• 3. Building the Mod Tail

  We use:

  • Neutrik NMJ2HF-S jack (check dimensions if substituting)
    
    

  • Shielded single-core wire (RS 207-5311)
    
    

  • 33nF 50v Nichicon capacitor (yellow)
    
    

  • 10kΩ ¼-watt metal film resistor
    
    

  • 100Ω ¼-watt metal film resistor inline with the positive lead
    
    

  Tips:

  • Add a small red wire to the resistor leg for strain relief
    
    

  • Heat shrink over resistor-to-core joint
    
    

  Tin exposed ends and apply additional heat shrink for neatness
  

4. Solder to Board & Jack

• Wire the signal core to the jack’s tip and the shield to ground
  
  

• Route the other ends to the designated PCB points
  
  

Modding All 16 Channels on a Tascam M-216

We only recommend modding the first 8 channels as the power supply on the M-216 cannot handle any more.

To mod channels 9–16:

• Remove the entire back panel
  
  

• Mark and drill holes for additional jack outputs
  
  

Drilling Guide:

• Use masking tape and a ruler to mark vertically and horizontally
  
  

• Create crosshairs (X) at center points
  
  

• Use a punch to mark centers
  
  

• Drill holes with a 12mm or 13mm bit
  
  

Final Notes

These instructions were prepared by the Soundgas Workshop
with thanks to Nick Allott for his original version of this mod.

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