General Hi-MD questions..

[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!

[jadeclaw]

1. Hi-SP is very close to CD, I say 98% of all people won't hear a difference to CD. Linear PCM is a different class. As it is completely uncompressed with 16 bits at a sample rate of 44.1kHz, the sound is identical to CD, as CDs use the same format. Standard DAT uses the same format as well, however, a professional DAT-recorder will sound better, at US$1600+, you can expect better components.

2. Yes you will get true stereo in Hi-SP and PCM.

Even 60's style ping-pong stereo is no problem.

Frequency response is no problem either, it is less than +-1 dB throughout the whole range (20 - 20000 Hz).

3. I say, the NH900 seems to me the best choice, as you can add a second battery in parallel for longer running time. Battery case for that is included.