The iRiver H120 (20GB disc) and H140 (40GB) are inexpensive recorders
that are favored by people who record music concerts. These iPod-size
machines have inputs for mic, line, and SPDIF optical signals. The
A/D circuitry digitizes at 16/44.1 (CD quality).
The Tapers Section forum has an extensive FAQ that describes most
aspects of recording using the H120/H140. Review it here:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,73139.0.html
You may need to register as a member of the forum to see this page.
The H120 and H140 were music players first, and recorders second. The
firmware developed by iRiver for recording has several flaws. An
alternative firmware called Rockbox has been developed to address
these flaws. The free Rockbox software is highly recommended if you
intend to use the iRiver machines for recording. http://www.rockbox.org
iRiver introduced the music player/recorder as the iHP-120 in late
Message: 2003.
Subject: Hewlett Packard complained about the name, so the device was
re-named the H120. A successor machine, called the H320, was
introduced in late 2004. The H320 is slightly smaller than the H120,
and has a color display that is easier to read.
The H320 has no digital optical input, so it won't work as a "bit
bucket" for an external preamp with digital output. For this reason,
the H320 is considered less desirable as a music concert recorder.
The H320 still has the stereo mic and line inputs of the H120, and has
a version of Rockbox available, so if you plan to record from a
microphone, the H320 is a viable option.
The H1xx and H3xx series machines are out of production now. You can
find them for sale as used equipment on eBay and on the Tapers Section
"Yard Sale" forum.
--oryoki
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