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Marantz 661 (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter Saburosan
- Start date
temmie
Well-known member
One of the best and still handy to use in the field (compared to e.g. 671), but maybe overkill. I would suggest this one if you are a scientist.
You have an Edirol R-09 for nearly half the price. This one doesn't come with XLR input, but recordings are still possible in WAV. Widely used by birdwatchers.
You have an Edirol R-09 for nearly half the price. This one doesn't come with XLR input, but recordings are still possible in WAV. Widely used by birdwatchers.
Some reviews of comparable recorders can be found here:
http://www.wildlife-sound.org/equipment/index.html
The Fostex FR2-LE is very good.
http://www.wildlife-sound.org/equipment/index.html
The Fostex FR2-LE is very good.
I've had one for a year. However, I don't have experience with other devices for comparison. I use it with a Sennheiser ME67.
You have to use class 6 SD cards, otherwise it'll hiccup.
Using rechargeable batteries, I go about 4 hours before I put in a fresh set. I don't think this is ~supposed~ to happen, but the first time the batteries ran out while actively recording, the file in progress was corrupted. I recovered the file, minus the very end, using a copy-paste feature on the unit itself; so no harm, no foul. So, I never push the batteries after that.
I use it under rather "vanilla" conditions... no wet or sub-freezing conditions. It won't be water/rain proof. I'm gentle, so durability isn't tested.
The recording timer (set start time by calendar + clock, and set hour/min duration) is great for night migration. However, it does not record at *low* enough quality to seamlessly use with the (admittedly old) OldBird tools. I use a workaround to lower the quality.
I like the display. I think the interface is good. The bevel with the recording levels is ~okay~. Instead, I set the main display to show recording levels. I find it easier to see in bright light than the bevel.
Built-in speakers are enough for personal listening, but do not project.
The rec/pause/stop buttons are a good size. The Record button has a raised rim for tactile feedback, so can be operated without looking.
It's gotten the job done for me.
You have to use class 6 SD cards, otherwise it'll hiccup.
Using rechargeable batteries, I go about 4 hours before I put in a fresh set. I don't think this is ~supposed~ to happen, but the first time the batteries ran out while actively recording, the file in progress was corrupted. I recovered the file, minus the very end, using a copy-paste feature on the unit itself; so no harm, no foul. So, I never push the batteries after that.
I use it under rather "vanilla" conditions... no wet or sub-freezing conditions. It won't be water/rain proof. I'm gentle, so durability isn't tested.
The recording timer (set start time by calendar + clock, and set hour/min duration) is great for night migration. However, it does not record at *low* enough quality to seamlessly use with the (admittedly old) OldBird tools. I use a workaround to lower the quality.
I like the display. I think the interface is good. The bevel with the recording levels is ~okay~. Instead, I set the main display to show recording levels. I find it easier to see in bright light than the bevel.
Built-in speakers are enough for personal listening, but do not project.
The rec/pause/stop buttons are a good size. The Record button has a raised rim for tactile feedback, so can be operated without looking.
It's gotten the job done for me.
Thank you Temmie, Andrew and Buile - all excellent information. I am slowly gaining knowledge of the options. I think that, like all tools, one must become expert within the limitations of any particular configuration. I am still leaning towrd the Marantz - call it product loyalty - but the Edirol is certainly a bargain in comparison. Which ever way I eventually go, I shall be sure to keep you all posted on the success of the expedition, which is nominally a raptor seeking one near Caracol in Belize lead by a local biologist who did his doctoral work in the region. It should be quite rewarding.
Again, thank you all and if you have any other suggestions I am all supercardoid ears.
Again, thank you all and if you have any other suggestions I am all supercardoid ears.
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