This short series on recorders is not to compare units of $160 vs $5000, but instead is simply my recommendation within each price range.
Last time we looked at a recorder that was listed under $450. The next step up is:
Field Recorders under $1300.
In the high-priced range is the Marantz PMD 670/671.
In an attempt to make the pre-amps quieter Oade Brothers Audio does modifications on various recorders. It is my suggestion that anyone looking at the Marantz for nature recording only buy a unit from Oade that has had the pre-amps modified. The quality of my recordings were dramatically improved after this modification.
The manufacturers website:
The user’s manual can be found at:
Forums discussing this recorder are:
Recording media – uses a CompactFlash card.
Maximum recordable time – Using a 4 GB card the record time in .wav at 44.1kHz 16bit CD quality mode is 6 hours 30 min.
Batteries – uses D batteries – about 8 hrs record time, I use an external battery supply.
Recordings:
Sound clips –
1 – Using a non-modified Marantz 671 DB Donlon recorded what he calls the East Central Ohio Chatter.
2 – Using a modified Marantz 670 I recently recorded this lone coyote. Most of the recordings on my website were made with this recorder before I had it modified.
Microphones – both DB Donlon and myself have been using the AT3032 Omnidirectional Condenser Microphones. However these mics are no longer being made. I typically use omnidirectional mics because I am leaving my gear overnight in the woods therefore I do not know which direction the sound will be coming from.
Conclusion – I have been recording with the 670 for 4 years now. It has been proven to be consistent, easy to use and durable. After having the unit modified the quality of my recordings were greatly improved.
Pros:
– great sound quality
– very easy to use
– sturdy build
Cons:
– battery compartment is poorly designed
– plastic body