Today, many recorder designs use a Compactflash memory card (CF)
as the storage medium. Once the recording session is complete,
the files are transferred from CF to a computer. The CF is then
erased and re-used.
If a computer isn't handy (for example, when you're traveling),
the next best thing is a Portable Storage Device (PSD).
The PSD is equipped with a CF reader, a battery-powered hard disc,
and electronic controls necessary to copy the files from CF to
hard disc at the touch of a button.
Despite having disc capacity up to 100GB, most PSDs are only
slightly larger and heavier than the ubiquitous iPod. They fit
easily into your gear bag.
When you return home, attach the PSD to your computer via USB
(or Firewire, if available). The PSD appears to the computer as
an external hard disc, and can be used as such until the next
recording trip.
Two inexpensive PSDs favored by digital photographers these days
are the Nexto-CF by Savit Micro, and the PD70X by Compact Drive.
These two models are less expensive than many PSDs because
they don't have an expensive color LCD screen to enable
you to review stored photos. That's no problem for an
audio recordist!
These two PSDs are reputed to be the fastest at copying the
contents of a Compactflash card to the internal hard disc.
Figure 2 minutes to copy 1GB of files, or less if you're using
a high-speed CF.
Both PSDs are available without a hard disc if you already have
a 2.5" IDE drive you'd like to use. Or you can purchase the PSD
with drive already installed. Prices range from $150 to $400
depending on hard disc size.
Both the Nexto-CF and the PD70X have advantages.
The Nexto-CF is somewhat smaller than PD70X, offers Firewire and
USB 2.0 to connect to PC or Mac, and usually tests to be somewhat
faster than the PD70X. The Nexto-CF has an internal rechargeable
battery good for transferring about 20GB on a charge. It has a
Compactflash slot only.
The PD70X is slightly less expensive than the Nexto-CF. It uses 4 AA
batteries, easily replaceable when needed. The AA batteries last
about twice as long as the Nexto-CF's built-in battery. The PD70X has
an 8-in-1 card reader, including Compactflash, SD, XD, and Sony Memory
Stick. It has a USB 2.0 port for connection to your computer.
Neither of these PSDs is available from a dealer in USA. Photographers
in America report successful dealings with JAL Digital and Power in
Numbers, Australian companies that carry both models. Delivery takes
two to three business days by FedEX.
JAL Digital, http://www.jaldigital.com.au/
Power in Numbers, http://www.powerinnumbers.com.au/
Please note that these two PSDs are strictly storage devices. They
cannot play back audio files on their own. If you want to use the
PSD to view photos, play audio or display video, you'll need one of
the new multimedia PSDs, also called Portable Media Players. Examples
include the Archos AV400 and Epson P2000. These devices are larger,
heavier, more expensive, and use battery power more quickly.
--oryoki
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"Microphones are not ears,
Loudspeakers are not birds,
A listening room is not nature."
Klas Strandberg
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