AV Freak

How about optical outputs for portable units? They had it on the MZ-1, but that was 10 years ago.

I'm 21, but I bought my first unit when i was 19. Now I have 3 units

If you are going to be toting this thing over the river and through the woods to collect sounds, you might want it look into a unit with a metal casing. I have an Aiwa AM-F70 that has been whalloped at least six times hard enough to dent the cabinet. It still performs without flaw. It also has a backlit screen and remote, perfect for recording at night.

Concerning the cheap feeling of new MD units, I think that it is probably because new units are so light. I have had a MZ-R500 for two years now, and was afraid it was going to just cruble in my hands since the first day I got it. The unit has been great, never missed a beat, even after constant use and repeated drops to the pavement. I don't think these new Sony units are as bad as they are made out to be. Actually, I'm glad they don't make 'em like they used to. I can't seem to keep the screws in my MZ-R30. I think there are little MD elves that come out at night and steal them. I've had to start locking it up at night...