After thinking about this a bit, I agree with Scott Fraser that the
Macbook/Interface option may be the best option, but it is also beyond my
budget right now. Also, I am thinking about upgrading from my trusty MZRH1 to a
flash media portable recorder.
I realized the MZRH1 minidisc recroder has toslink input, but only analog
output. And I have given up on the idea of a dock for the iPod since I don't
like the iPod navigation anyway.
So..
Is there any difference in the quality of the built-in Digital/Analog
Converters on the portable recorders (PCM-M10 etc) that would make one more
suitable than the others for high quality playback?
Same question regarding field recorders that have xlr and phantom power inputs
(Fostex FR-2LE etc). How are the DACs on those units and useability as a
playback device? (I'm borrowing a Marantz PMD670 to see how it serves as a
player. I already know I don't care for it as a recorder).
I'll be looking into which of the above have s/pdif output for use with an
external DAC (like the MOTUs or Focusrites), but if anyone has knowledge of
this, I'm much obliged.
Finally, is there a standalone playback unit that would be more cost effective
than any of the above? I've been looking at the Denon DN-F400, but it seems not
to be so useful without the remote control unit, and that makes it cost
prohibitive.
In the end, a recorder with great preamps and very good DACs on board would
fill two needs at once and therefore be a best solution for me, I think.
Many thanks for your input!
John
--- In "John" <> wrote:
>
> Greetings,
>
> I am looking for the best solution (although price is a factor) to high
> quality playback in a concert setting (we use nature sounds along with
> compositions for harp and cello) and educational setting (I present on marine
> conservation and cetacean communication). I have been using Quicktime on a
> Mac Powerbook for many years with an external USB audio interface (which
> delivers better quality than the headphone jack on the Powerbook). This works
> fine, but since all I am doing is playing back audio files, I would rather
> not have to drag my computer to every gig.
>
> I have tried using the iPod touch, but have not been impressed with the sound
> quality coming out of that into a PA system. We are talking about whales
> here. Low frequencies need to be well reproduced. I also find navigating the
> iPod touch frustrating when on stage.
>
> Do any of you know of a compact, well-designed, high quality digital audio
> player that can play uncompressed WAV or AIF files? Well designed means being
> able to easily arrange, rearrange and access the tunes on the player, and
> play one at a time (the iPod plays in sequence without stopping. I can't stop
> the player while I'm playing the cello!).
>
> How do the digital recorders (PCM-M10, MZRH1, LS-7, H2, etc etc) compare in
> terms of their digital to analog playback qualities? Is one of them more
> suitable than others for playback (I have an H2 and an MZRH1).
>
> What are others using for best quality performance of nature sounds?
>
> I will be comparing everything I have through our sound system, but wondered
> what you all would have to say.
>
> Many thanks!
>
> John
>
> Let us live in harmony with the Earth
> And all creatures
> That our lives may be a blessing
>
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