Meen

I'm about to purchase a Hi-MD and would like to seek suggestion on three aspects of Hi-MD. Hope they don't sound too naive. (1) Much has been said about the Hi-SP 256 mode. Did anyone try the PCM Linear mode? How does it compare to the Hi-SP 256 in terms of sound quality? How does it compare to other digital non-compression means of recordings, like DAT? Can I transfer contents recorded in PCM Linear mode to computer as easy and as lossless as those in Hi-SP 256 mode? (2) If I purchase a stereo condenser mic, like Sony 907 or 957, will I get "real" stereo with Hi-MD? Does the input of Hi-MD support stereo, or just mono input like older MDs (even if you use a stereo mic)? Also, does the input of Hi-MD support/compatible with the full functions of the mic of Sony 957, like the frequency response? (Or it would be a waste to buy Sony 957, 907 is enough?) (3) In fact, I'm looking for a portable machine that can replace (or close to) the going-to-disappear DAT. I mainly use it for field recording (live musical performance, both indoor and outdoor), probably like advanced-amateur level. Do you think Hi-MD is suitable for my purpose? Which model would you suggest? Thanks a lot!