The DR-701D's chassis is forged using a magnesium alloy, chosen for its lightweight but solid structure. Desipte its compact size, a high number of inputs and outputs are included. Screw threads for mounting a tripod are included on the bottom of the unit, while a removable camera attachment screw and hot shoe are included on the top of the unit. The DR-701D includes a number of mounting options – either below the camera for best cable management, above the camera, or mounted to a follow-focus cage.

The microphone preamps have a significant impact on the quality of the recorded audio. The DR-701D features TASCAM HDDA mic preamps. The differential mic preamp circuits use discrete architecture, built with carefully selected components. For example, Texas Instruments OPA1652 op amps were selected for their high quality and low noise – with even better audio performance than the previous DR-70D model. As a result, the unit boasts an equivalent input noise of -124 dBu or better.

The A/D converters, which convert analog signals to digital, are made by Asahi Kasei Corporation and are equivalent to those used in the top models in the TASCAM DR series of linear PCM recorders. High audio quality HDDA circuits faithfully convert the amplified audio to digital. Resolutions up to 96kHz/24-bit are supported when recording 6 tracks and 192kHz/24-bit when recording 2 tracks.

The four XLR/TRS inputs can be adjusted and recorded independently, allowing various on-set recording options. Talent can be recorded using shotgun mics, lavaliers, or both simultaneously. Ambience can be recorded using a stereo mic (or the built-in microphones.) The 3.5mm stereo input can be selected for channels (1-2) and the built-in omni mics for channels (3-4) for an even wider range of mic setups.

The limiter function automatically adjusts excessive input levels, and can operate independently on each of the four inputs. A more natural sound quality is achieved because a multiband limiter is employed, affecting only the frequency ranges that have excessive input. In addition, a low-cut filter can be adjusted to five different frequencies to cut wind noise, rumble and other undesirable low frequencies without damaging the source audio.

A high precision TCXO is employed for the internal clock generator. Like other TASCAM professional studio equipment, the TCXO reduces clock errors (jitter) to improve the quality of the digital recording. Additionally, a PLL (phase-locked loop) circuit with a discrete filter further reduces jitter for the best possible audio quality.