Re: decent portable mic pre with optical out

["oryoki2000" oryoki2000]

Rob D. wrote, "...one would need very quiet and
sensitive mics hoping to improve on Hi-MD
recordings using an eternal pre."

Yes, the "eternal pre's" sound heavenly!
(sorry, couldn't help myself)

The message is that the Hi-MD preamp and A/D circuit
is very good.

One limitation of the Hi-MD recorder is that it doesn't
provide 48V "phantom power" required by many pro mics.
So, depending on the mics you're using, you may need a
separate battery box.

The battery box for phantom power most commonly discussed
here is the Rolls PB224, which runs on two 9V batteries.
The PB224 measures 5.5" x 2.7" x 1.75", weighs 1 lb, and
costs about $75 from online sources.
http://www.rolls.com/new/pb224.html

--oryoki