"no_mas_films" wrote:
> ...why not consider the Marantz 660 CF recorder...
The Marantz PMD660 has a lot to recommend it. It's
relatively small and light, has XLR mic inputs and
reliable 48V phantom power, and it's easy to use.
Unfortunately, the PMD660 suffers from two preamp
problems. First, its self noise is pretty high.
If you're using a mic with low self noise, you'll
record lots of hissy sound from the preamp.
You'll hear the preamp noise when you turn up the
preamp volume to record a quiet ambience or a distant
vocalization.
Second, the preamp will overload at a relatively
low sound pressure level. This is of more importance
for recording amplified music, and less importance
for nature recording. But there are situations where
nature sounds can be quite loud, and the PMD660 can
produce disappointing results in this situation.
Here's a good description of the PMD660's strengths
and weaknesses:
http://www.transom.org/tools/recording_interviewing/200503.pmd660.html
Doug Oade modifies the preamp circuitry of several
recorder models to improve their sound. Recently
Oade started offering a modification to the PMD660
designed for nature sound recordists. The Oade
"Ambient" mod costs $650, including the PMD660.
I purchased one and I'm pleased with the result.
Note that he Oade treatment voids your warranty from
Marantz.
Read about the Oade product here:
http://www.oade.com/digital_recorders/hard_disc_recorders/PMD-660MODS.html
--oryoki
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