Looking for new recorder with specific needs

[lforman]

Hi,

I'm going on my third record cause I haven't had much luck to get them work for more than a year.

My last recorder was a Sharp MT-770. I just got it back from Japan after 4 months and they didn't fix the problem. I've had a Sony MZ90 years ago and found that Sharp's recording quality is better, but I am not wary about dealing with Sharp repair again in Japan.

I am mainly using the recorder to record live percussion classes and events. I play drum and need to record myself and others.

I want these abilities:

digital line out (still doesn't exist right?)

manual recording

digital amp prefered

line in and out (I use the IMic to get DAD into my computer)

reads old disc without problem

Any models, advice, is appreciateds.

I'd rather not pay more than 300 bucks.

Oh, any information on the new Sony units that take 30gig discs?

[Christopher]

Hi,

First off, there is no "30 gig" disc. Only one gigabyte is on the plate, and that's in conjunction with the new Hi-MD format.

Now, when you state digital line out, do you mean an actual line out, a fake one [basically the volume all the way up with no bass/etc], or a digital optical out? I'm assuming you meant optical out, and the answer is no.

I really think that the new Hi-MD format is going to be your best bet. You can upload your recorded works via USB, and whilst this isn't an optical out, it's the best you're going to come across. I would suggest you look at the new units that are currently going to be available soon as well. I honestly think you'd be best off with a NH900. You can also wait until Sharp tips their hat in the Hi-MD realm, which would probably be later this year, if not early next.