N10 Or Better

[logicgirl]

I'm swimming in information about MD players to replace my n10 that recently crapped out on me. I could use some perspective.

I need a really durable MD player for recording live shows. I am in the process of learning all about engineering and producing so I archive a lot of material to help out the learning process. IE: I use my MD's really hard. It's not unusual to record at least 3 hours/day 5-7days/week.

Needless to say, I'm concerned with quality parts and durability not to mention the best preamp and sound quality I can get for my buck. I'm not worried about S.S. I use another software editing program to upload my recordings through a great preamp.

I had the 707 and loved it but it got swiped after Sony discontinued them. I'd get one again on Ebay if I knew they had a ton of life. Then I had the n10 which was working perfectly until about 3 months ago. Sony in the US no longer repairs them. Sonystyle telephone operators are about as useful as goldfish for advice. Bottom line is that they have that dumb exchange thing they do where they will exchange your broken unit for a refurb. for a little less thatn what it costs to buy a new one. ((Interestingly enough, I called Sony Style in Vancouver (seeing as I was going to be going there for Christmas)) and talked to a guy who really knew his ****. That store still repair all sony units on site. Hmmmmmmmmmm.

Well anyway, I'm thinking I might get another N10 for around $160.00 until the second generation of High MD's is born.

It seems to me, (like cars), the older MD's were made to last. The new ones feel like cheap plastic boxes to me. Am I just being cynical?

I'm grateful for any advice I can get.

Thanks!

[bobt]

Hi Logicgirl,

I just replaced a 707 which lost it's recording capability with an MZ NH1. The difference between the two is phenominal. It is very solid, the magnesium body is beautiful, and the recording options unbelievable. At reasonable quality you can get 8 to 9 cd's on a 74 min disc, and you have the ability to upload live recordings. If I were you, I would not hesitate to get either the 900 or the NH1.

Good luck,

Bobt

[aeriyn]

If you're using analog output to get your recordings to CD, might as well go with an R900 until you can get/try a 2G Hi-MD. R900 is a freaking tank. I dropped mine off of a two-story height and the thing still worked for another year after that. I've seen them on eBay for $80ish US.

Hi-MD first generation didn't have the best build quality, especially not NH1... I was expecting much better, but maybe I shouldn't have considering how flimsy N10 and N1 were... maybe 2G Hi-MD will have higher build quality.

[bobt]

I Beg to differ. Compared to an I-Pod, the NH1 is built like a tank. Thae unit is solid, no flimsyness at all.

2nd generation may offer more, but with the chance of a retrograde uprade I'll chance my NH1 for a while.

Again, for recording capability, bulletproof construction and ease of use, do MD.

IMHO

Bobt

[logicgirl]

Thanks for the input. I think I will try the R900. I checked out that model and the R909 and they both look like they can do the job. Built like a tank is what I need.

Cheers!

[Happy Hopping]

I agree w/ Bobt. NH1 is very well done, there are bugs in the software, but I am almost 100% convinced those same bugs exist in the other HiMD. Overall, I'm happy w/ my Nh1.

[olijones1984]

not sure if this is the right post but does anyone know if current himd players could be recalibrated or whatever to play mp3's like 2G players will. or is this impossible?