Here's a list of digital recorder alternatives you can purchase new
today for less than $1000. Prices are typical, search online for
better deals. Comments invited!
--oryoki
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Zoom H2 ($200)
The H2 is promising, but can't be recommended until more people try it
in the field with different mics.
Zoom H4 ($275)
Use external power supply to avoid noise problems created by internal
battery power. Use external mic instead of noisy internal mics.
M-Audio Microtrack 2496 ($300)
Good preamp. An improved model named Microtrack II will be released in
September
Sony MZ-RH1 (also MZ-M200) Hi-MD recorder ($325)
Very good preamp, elegant design
Sony Hi-MD is out of stock almost everywhere, and no longer on
Sonystyle web site. Is this the end of minidisc in North America?
Edirol R-09 ($400)
Good preamp. Poor mechanical design leads to many reports of mic input
jack failure
Marantz PMD660 ($500)
Preamp self-noise is high, preamp overloads easily
Fostex FR-2LE ($600)
Excellent preamp, clever rechargeable battery option
Marantz PMD660 with Oade "Ambient" preamp upgrade ($650)
Preamp upgrade voids warranty, but sounds much better
Marantz PMD671 ($700 at www.martelelectronics.com)
Very good all-around recorder
Korg MR-1 ($700)
records one-bit or PCM
Tascam HD-P2 ($999)
excellent all-around choice, includes time code sync
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