"Robert Heckendorn" wrote:
> Why don't more people use CD recorders in the field?
The primary reason is convenience. CD recorders tend to be much
larger and heavier than minidisc, DAT or Compactflash recorders. They
usually have to be held flat (that is, the CD parallel to the ground)
while recording. The CD recording mechanism can be easily
contaminated by dust. And most machines require heavy 12V battery
packs to provide the needed power. The result is a recorder that is
best used in "field" situations where you have access to a table and
mains power.
Minidisc machines, in contrast, are smaller, lighter, much more power
efficient, and can record in any position. The MD writing mechanism
is proven reliable in the dusty and humid field conditions that cause
problems for CD and, especially, DAT tape machines.
Consumer-grade minidisc recorders from Sony and Sharp work very well.
Their control buttons and mic input jack are not as durable as the
controls on a pro recorder, but they can provide years of service
before problems appear. Because the price of a new consumer MD
recorder is so low, repair usually is not cost effective.
--oryoki
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