There is a problem with all "affordable" recorders with mic inputs.
First they won't be floating input and may not even be balanced line
and so be prone to phantom power noise.
I have a Tascam DR-100 which is just about acceptable with my MKH mics
and average background noise. The input sensitivity is important and
MKH's give 25mV/Pa output. The ME66 is rated at 50mV/Pa which is 6dB
better or 6dB lower preamp noise. A "Self noise" figure also requires
a mic output level in mV/Pa to make a suitable judgement.
BTW 1Pa is 94dB spl.
The only real way to improve the performance of an affordable recorder
is to use a separate mixer or balanced preamp/phantom supply. I don't
know how this compares in cost to a single semi-pro recorder with good
inputs as I have pro mixers anyway. My Tascams produce excellent
recordings from the line input.
David
David Brinicombe
North Devon, UK
Cogito cogito ergo cogito sum - Ambrose Bierce
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