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Re: iRiver iHP120, better than iPod as field recorder

Subject: Re: iRiver iHP120, better than iPod as field recorder
From: Roy Beckham <>
Date: Wed, 01 Feb 2006 09:34:19 -0800
Oryoki,

Nice summary of the capabilities. Thank you.

-Roy

> If you're really interested in using a small hard disc-based audio
> player as a field recorder, check out the iRiver iHP-120 and the
> Rockbox software.
>
> iRiver is a Korean company that makes personal music players. The
> iHP-100 was introduced in mid-2003, and replaced in early 2005 with
> the newer 300 series.  The iHP-100, -120 and -140 are iPod style
> devices, with 10, 20 and 40GB hard drives respectively. Unlike the
> iPod, the iHP-100 series has several features oriented to recording audio=
:
>
> --3.5mm line level input jack
> --SPDIF optical digital input and output
> --records in 16/44.1 WAV format or up to 320kbps MP3
> --large remote control to manage most recording settings
>
> There are a few problems with the iRiver design:
> --maximum WAV file recording is 75 minutes
> --can't adjust levels while recording, must pause
> --1300mAh battery provides only 2.5 hours of recording time
>
> These problems have been addressed by the open-source audio
> software called Rockbox.  Rockbox is developed by volunteers
> and offered to everyone for free.  You load the Rockbox
> software into the iHP-100 series from your computer using a
> USB cable.
>
> Running Rockbox, the iRiver iHP-100 series players now record WAV
> files up to 2GB (more than 3 hours).  The record levels are displayed
> on the LCD screen, and can be adjusted on the fly as needed.  And the
> Rockbox software runs more efficiently, making the battery last almost
> twice as long.  Not bad for a free software upgrade!
>
> The Rockbox software development continues. Bug fixs and new features
> are added weekly.  You can find out more about the Rockbox project and
> download software by following links at www.rockbox.org
>
> The iHP-100 series machines are available used from eBay.  The iHP-120
> seems to be the most common model.  Prices for the iHP-120 range from
> $275 for a factory refurbished model with 90 day warranty, to
> $175-$200 for a used model with all accessories.
>
> Recording via the line level input works OK with most mics if the
> source has a high sound pressure level (like a waterfall or a rock
> concert).  Nature recordists will probably need an external preamp of
> some sort to raise the signal level.
>
> Admittedly, a setup like the iRiver iHP-120 and Rockbox software won't
> appeal to everyone.  Most of us would be better served by a device
> designed first and foremost as a recorder, such as the recently
> announced Edirol R-9.   But the iHP-120 combination offers real
> advantages over the current iPod as a field recorder.
>
> --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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