--- In "escalation746"
<> wrote:
>
> Thanks again Oryoki.
>
> The Marantz PMD661 now appears to be the lightest and smallest solid
> state recorder on the market that has the crucial XLR sockets and full
> spec phantom power. At 552cc and 410g it is half the weight and
> one-third the size of the Fostex FR-2LE, though that device has
> distinctly lower noise floor and twice the battery life, as you note.
>
> They compete at the same price point, making the decision an
> interesting one.
>
> -- robin
>
Agreed. After much deliberation I decided on the Marantz 661. The
basis of my decision was information gleaned from the internet. I had
not handled, or even seen, either machine before making my purchase.
Things which pushed me towards the Marantz were:-
1/ Use of SD/SDHC cards rather than compact flash (already use SD/SDHC
with an Olympus LS10 - incidently, a card used in the LS10, containing
files made with that machine, can be used in the 661 as is. The LS10
files/folders do not show up in the Marantz file list. Both machine's
files show up on the card when it is read by a computer).
2/ Reported headphone amp noise on the FR-2LE
3/ Reported better build quality of the 661.
4/ The longer recording time of the FR-2LE when using Tamiya batteries
was not an issue for me (even though I already have two Tamiya type
Message: 7.
Subject: 2 type RC batteries) I am changing over to Eneloop AAs thereby
saving the need to recharge "normal NiMHs" just before use in order to
maximise their charge. I will also make a sled for four D batteries
which, hopefully, will allow long recording times if I ever need that
facility.
5/ The 661 is about 3 years further up the evolution trail. Hopefully
this will be of some benefit.
I've had the 661 for a few days. Today I managed to test it with
AT3032s and NT1As. Just a quick test in a somewhat damp back garden.
Pre-amp sensitivity seems a touch lower than that of my HiMD machines
using an ART Phantom (but what bliss not to have to have the
paraphenalia that that set up requires. This was my main reason for
moving away from HiMD - note: my machines are pre RH1).
I experienced some mains hum using the supplied AC adaptor whilst
recording with the in-built microphones. When switching to external
mics the hum disappeared completely.
All in all a nice machine to handle (fondle?) and use. Although, at
the moment I prefer the file/menu system and general ergonomics of the
LS-10 which, after pre RH1 HiMD, is superb.
Some sunshine is forecast for tomorrow so hope to take the 661 for its
first outing.
Cheers
TomR
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