The postman brought a surprise today: The new Marantz PMD620
recorder. Here is my review.
--oryoki
Marantz PMD620 first impressions
The PMD620 is a departure from the traditional Marantz designs. The
PMD620 has an attractive, almost stylish appearance. The PMD620 is
built of black plastic, with grey metal covering the front. The
effect is rather elegant and professional. No one will mistake this
new machine for a cassette tape recorder!
The PMD620 is a small hand-held recorder. Two useful mics are built
into the top of the PMD620, and a 1/8-inch jack is available for an
external pair of mics. "Plug-in" power is available for external mics
that use it. This $400 model records 24/48 WAV or MP3 files to SDHC
flash cards.
Hearing that the PMD620 is small doesn't prepare you for its size. It
is literally 1/6 the volume and weight of the next largest Marantz,
the PMD660. The PMD620 is almost identical in size to the current
Apple iPod "Classic", except that the PMD620 is one inch (25mm) thick
to make room for two AA batteries. The PMD620 weighs about 6 oz (170
g) ready to record. The recorder slides easily into a trouser or
jacket pocket, or attaches to your belt like a cell phone using the
supplied clip.
Like the iPod, the PMD620 is designed for one-hand operation.
Recording is started with one push of an oversize button. A large
OLED display keeps you informed about the recording. The display is
easy to read indoors, difficult outside in shade, and completely
illegible in direct sun. Selecting the larger font size makes the
display easier to read.
Slide the power switch, and the machine is ready to record in less
than 3 seconds. Press the large Record button and recording starts.
Press the Record/Pause button instead, and the LED screen shows the
metering system in action. The headphone jack lets you monitor the
recording in progress. Record Stop and Shut down are almost
instantaneous.
Marantz claims the 2 AA cells can power the PMD620 for about 5 hours
of recording. The plastic door covering the battery compartment seems
flimsy for a part that will see regular manipulation. The PMD620 can
also run on 6V DC power from an external source.
The preamp specifications Marantz publishes for the PMD620 are similar
to the specs of the PMD660 recorder. This is not a good sign, because
the PMD660 is (correctly) criticized as having relatively high
self-noise and poor performance when recording loud material.
However, in my brief tests the PMD620 sounded better than the specs
might suggest.
The built-in mics are adequate. They have a somewhat better sound
when you point the top of the mic at the subject, holding the recorder
as if it were a TV remote control. The sound is thinner and brighter
when you point the front or back of the recorder at the subject (this
points the top of the recorder and the mics at the ceiling). The belt
clip includes a tripod socket, which enables you to properly orient
the recorder on a stand of some sort.
Handling noise is evident in the recording when the internal mics are
used, as one might expect when the mics are less than 2 inches (50 mm)
away from the controls. Less expected is a pronounced "click" added
to the recording when the control button for mic gain is pressed.
This is true with internal or external mics. Disappointing!
When recording with the built-in mics and volume set to maximum, a
broad-spectrum hissy background sound is noticeable. After plugging
in external mics, the preamp becomes much quieter. At a gain setting
just lower than maximum, the recordings I made with a Sennheiser
ME20/K6 mic were very clear and sounded natural.
Compared to my Oade-modified PMD660, the PMD620 was a bit noisier, but
sounded very good as long as the preamp gain was held a little below
maximum. Overall, I'd say the PMD620's preamp is better than the
stock PMD660, and similar to the well-regarded Sony Hi-MD minidisc
recorder.
The PMD620 menu system allows you to configure many parameters for
your recording session:
Input select (auto or manual select of internal or external mic)
Record format (low, medium or high bit rate MP3, plus 16 or 24 bit WAV)
Stereo or Mono
WAV sample rate (44.1 or 48 thousand samples per second)
Ability to manually split tracks
Silent Skip
Auto level control
Mic attenuation (0, -12, -24)
Low cut filter
dB level of warning LED (-6dB, -12dB, -20dB, -38dB and -54dB)
Skip Back duration (1 to 60 seconds)
File sort (by date/time file was created, or by name)
Date format (M/D/Y or D/M/Y)
LED font size (large or small)
Auto Power Down (on or off)
Battery type (Alkaline or NiMH rechargeable)
Key Lock (all keys or partial
main LED display on or off
LED brightness
Machine ID (a 7 character name for the machine)
Fortunately, the PMD620 remembers up to three sets of parameters,
making it easy to switch between setups without checking all the above
choices. You can save a preset to the flash memory card and copy it
to a second PMD620, ensuring the two recorders are set up the same.
The PMD620 package includes a 512MB SD card, which is enough space for
half an hour or more of recording. The PMD620 can record in monaural
mode as well as stereo. This is useful if you're using a single mic
and need to save space on the flash memory card.
Marantz claims that the PMD620 will continue to record as long as
there is file space. There is no 2GB limit to file size. I'll try
to verify this is correct.
Now that the stylish PMD620 has arrived, is there a reason to consider
the larger PMD660? I think so. The $475 PMD660 has XLR inputs and
phantom power for pro mics, and its design makes it easy to operate
while it hangs from your shoulder. The PMD660 has large, easy to use
controls, individual gain controls for each input channel, and better
metering than the PMD620 has.
The PMD620's main competition are the Edirol R-09 ($375), the M-Audio
Microtrack II ($300), and the Zoom H2 ($200). All three are about the
same size as the PMD620.
The R-09 is very similar, with two built-in mics and AA power. I
don't have an R-09 for side-by-side comparison, but I'd say the R-09's
mic preamps sound very similar to the PMD620's preamps. And adjusting
the preamp gain does not add "click" sounds to the recording.
However, the R-09 is notorious for failures of its 1/8-inch input
jacks. They are poorly soldered and develop problems even with the
most careful handling. It's too early to say if the PMD620 will be
more reliable, but Marantz has a good reputation for building solid
equipment.
The Microtrack lacks the built-in mics and field-replaceable
batteries, but offers 24/96 digitization, and SPDIF digital input.
There have been far fewer input jack failures reported by Microtrack
owners. The Microtrack uses Compactflash cards.
The Zoom H2 offers two and four channel recording options using its
built-in mic array. Recordings via the external mic jack can have
high noise levels. The circuits supporting the built-in mics and line
input are quieter. The H2 is a little larger and heavier than the
others mentioned here, and the preamp is a little noisier. At half
the price of the others mentioned above, many buyers are willing to
overlook the H2's shortcomings.
The PMD620 joins the R-09 and Zoom H2 as good choices for a "point and
shoot" recorder that is small enough to be carried discretely
anywhere, and able to capture those serendipitous recording moments.
With external mics, the PMD620 is capable of excellent performance.
I just looked at the spec for the PMD660 if accurate seems to be very good,
thanks for the 'heads up'.
Phil;
----- Original Message ----
From: oryoki2000 <oryoki@...>
To: naturerecordists@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Wednesday, 21 November, 2007 1:34:40 AM
Subject: [Nature Recordists] [gear] Marantz PMD620 first impressions (long msg)
The postman brought a surprise today: The new Marantz PMD620
recorder. Here is my review.
--oryoki
Marantz PMD620 first impressions
The PMD620 is a departure from the traditional Marantz designs. The
PMD620 has an attractive, almost stylish appearance. The PMD620 is
built of black plastic, with grey metal covering the front. The
effect is rather elegant and professional. No one will mistake this
new machine for a cassette tape recorder!
The PMD620 is a small hand-held recorder. Two useful mics are built
into the top of the PMD620, and a 1/8-inch jack is available for an
external pair of mics. "Plug-in" power is available for external mics
that use it. This $400 model records 24/48 WAV or MP3 files to SDHC
flash cards.
Hearing that the PMD620 is small doesn't prepare you for its size. It
is literally 1/6 the volume and weight of the next largest Marantz,
the PMD660. The PMD620 is almost identical in size to the current
Apple iPod "Classic", except that the PMD620 is one inch (25mm) thick
to make room for two AA batteries. The PMD620 weighs about 6 oz (170
g) ready to record. The recorder slides easily into a trouser or
jacket pocket, or attaches to your belt like a cell phone using the
supplied clip.
Like the iPod, the PMD620 is designed for one-hand operation.
Recording is started with one push of an oversize button. A large
OLED display keeps you informed about the recording. The display is
easy to read indoors, difficult outside in shade, and completely
illegible in direct sun. Selecting the larger font size makes the
display easier to read.
Slide the power switch, and the machine is ready to record in less
than 3 seconds. Press the large Record button and recording starts.
Press the Record/Pause button instead, and the LED screen shows the
metering system in action. The headphone jack lets you monitor the
recording in progress. Record Stop and Shut down are almost
instantaneous.
Marantz claims the 2 AA cells can power the PMD620 for about 5 hours
of recording. The plastic door covering the battery compartment seems
flimsy for a part that will see regular manipulation. The PMD620 can
also run on 6V DC power from an external source.
The preamp specifications Marantz publishes for the PMD620 are similar
to the specs of the PMD660 recorder. This is not a good sign, because
the PMD660 is (correctly) criticized as having relatively high
self-noise and poor performance when recording loud material.
However, in my brief tests the PMD620 sounded better than the specs
might suggest.
The built-in mics are adequate. They have a somewhat better sound
when you point the top of the mic at the subject, holding the recorder
as if it were a TV remote control. The sound is thinner and brighter
when you point the front or back of the recorder at the subject (this
points the top of the recorder and the mics at the ceiling). The belt
clip includes a tripod socket, which enables you to properly orient
the recorder on a stand of some sort.
Handling noise is evident in the recording when the internal mics are
used, as one might expect when the mics are less than 2 inches (50 mm)
away from the controls. Less expected is a pronounced "click" added
to the recording when the control button for mic gain is pressed.
This is true with internal or external mics. Disappointing!
When recording with the built-in mics and volume set to maximum, a
broad-spectrum hissy background sound is noticeable. After plugging
in external mics, the preamp becomes much quieter. At a gain setting
just lower than maximum, the recordings I made with a Sennheiser
ME20/K6 mic were very clear and sounded natural.
Compared to my Oade-modified PMD660, the PMD620 was a bit noisier, but
sounded very good as long as the preamp gain was held a little below
maximum. Overall, I'd say the PMD620's preamp is better than the
stock PMD660, and similar to the well-regarded Sony Hi-MD minidisc
recorder.
The PMD620 menu system allows you to configure many parameters for
your recording session:
Input select (auto or manual select of internal or external mic)
Record format (low, medium or high bit rate MP3, plus 16 or 24 bit WAV)
Stereo or Mono
WAV sample rate (44.1 or 48 thousand samples per second)
Ability to manually split tracks
Silent Skip
Auto level control
Mic attenuation (0, -12, -24)
Low cut filter
dB level of warning LED (-6dB, -12dB, -20dB, -38dB and -54dB)
Skip Back duration (1 to 60 seconds)
File sort (by date/time file was created, or by name)
Date format (M/D/Y or D/M/Y)
LED font size (large or small)
Auto Power Down (on or off)
Battery type (Alkaline or NiMH rechargeable)
Key Lock (all keys or partial
main LED display on or off
LED brightness
Machine ID (a 7 character name for the machine)
Fortunately, the PMD620 remembers up to three sets of parameters,
making it easy to switch between setups without checking all the above
choices. You can save a preset to the flash memory card and copy it
to a second PMD620, ensuring the two recorders are set up the same.
The PMD620 package includes a 512MB SD card, which is enough space for
half an hour or more of recording. The PMD620 can record in monaural
mode as well as stereo. This is useful if you're using a single mic
and need to save space on the flash memory card.
Marantz claims that the PMD620 will continue to record as long as
there is file space. There is no 2GB limit to file size. I'll try
to verify this is correct.
Now that the stylish PMD620 has arrived, is there a reason to consider
the larger PMD660? I think so. The $475 PMD660 has XLR inputs and
phantom power for pro mics, and its design makes it easy to operate
while it hangs from your shoulder. The PMD660 has large, easy to use
controls, individual gain controls for each input channel, and better
metering than the PMD620 has.
The PMD620's main competition are the Edirol R-09 ($375), the M-Audio
Microtrack II ($300), and the Zoom H2 ($200). All three are about the
same size as the PMD620.
The R-09 is very similar, with two built-in mics and AA power. I
don't have an R-09 for side-by-side comparison, but I'd say the R-09's
mic preamps sound very similar to the PMD620's preamps.. And adjusting
the preamp gain does not add "click" sounds to the recording.
However, the R-09 is notorious for failures of its 1/8-inch input
jacks. They are poorly soldered and develop problems even with the
most careful handling. It's too early to say if the PMD620 will be
more reliable, but Marantz has a good reputation for building solid
equipment.
The Microtrack lacks the built-in mics and field-replaceable
batteries, but offers 24/96 digitization, and SPDIF digital input.
There have been far fewer input jack failures reported by Microtrack
owners. The Microtrack uses Compactflash cards.
The Zoom H2 offers two and four channel recording options using its
built-in mic array. Recordings via the external mic jack can have
high noise levels. The circuits supporting the built-in mics and line
input are quieter. The H2 is a little larger and heavier than the
others mentioned here, and the preamp is a little noisier. At half
the price of the others mentioned above, many buyers are willing to
overlook the H2's shortcomings.
The PMD620 joins the R-09 and Zoom H2 as good choices for a "point and
shoot" recorder that is small enough to be carried discretely
anywhere, and able to capture those serendipitous recording moments.
With external mics, the PMD620 is capable of excellent performance.
I tried recording continuously until the battery gave out. The PMD620
created a 2.7 GB file, proving that there is no 2GB file size limit
with this machine. Windows Media Player was able to open and play the
file. The recording (of household noises) sounded fine, with minimal
self-noise evident.
This demonstration shows that the PMD620 has good manners as it
approaches the end of battery life. The open file was closed and
saved properly as the machine shut down.
A 2.7 GB file represents about 4 hours and 20 minutes of WAV recording
at 16/44.1. Giving an allowance for extra time I spent with the
recorder powered on but not recording, and the fact that the OLED
screen was powered on the entire time recording was in progress, I
think 4.5 hours is a conservative estimate of the battery life when
using standard alkaline AA cells. Turning off the OLED screen could
stretch battery life another 15 minutes or so.
For the recording session, I used a Transcend 4GB SD card (not SDHC).
The PMD620 had no difficulty recognizing this non-standard card.
At 1:34 AM +0000 11/21/07, oryoki2000 wrote:
>The postman brought a surprise today: The new Marantz PMD620
>recorder. Here is my review.
>--oryoki
>
>Marantz PMD620 first impressions
>
>The PMD620 is a departure from the traditional Marantz designs. The
>PMD620 has an attractive, almost stylish appearance. The PMD620 is
>built of black plastic, with grey metal covering the front. The
>effect is rather elegant and professional. No one will mistake this
>new machine for a cassette tape recorder!
>
>The PMD620 is a small hand-held recorder. Two useful mics are built
>into the top of the PMD620, and a 1/8-inch jack is available for an
>external pair of mics. "Plug-in" power is available for external mics
>that use it. This $400 model records 24/48 WAV or MP3 files to SDHC
>flash cards.
>
>Hearing that the PMD620 is small doesn't prepare you for its size. It
>is literally 1/6 the volume and weight of the next largest Marantz,
>the PMD660. The PMD620 is almost identical in size to the current
>Apple iPod "Classic", except that the PMD620 is one inch (25mm) thick
>to make room for two AA batteries. The PMD620 weighs about 6 oz (170
>g) ready to record. The recorder slides easily into a trouser or
>jacket pocket, or attaches to your belt like a cell phone using the
>supplied clip.
>
>Like the iPod, the PMD620 is designed for one-hand operation.
>Recording is started with one push of an oversize button. A large
>OLED display keeps you informed about the recording. The display is
>easy to read indoors, difficult outside in shade, and completely
>illegible in direct sun. Selecting the larger font size makes the
>display easier to read.
>
>Slide the power switch, and the machine is ready to record in less
>than 3 seconds. Press the large Record button and recording starts.
>Press the Record/Pause button instead, and the LED screen shows the
>metering system in action. The headphone jack lets you monitor the
>recording in progress. Record Stop and Shut down are almost
>instantaneous.
>
>Marantz claims the 2 AA cells can power the PMD620 for about 5 hours
>of recording. The plastic door covering the battery compartment seems
>flimsy for a part that will see regular manipulation. The PMD620 can
>also run on 6V DC power from an external source.
>
>The preamp specifications Marantz publishes for the PMD620 are similar
>to the specs of the PMD660 recorder. This is not a good sign, because
>the PMD660 is (correctly) criticized as having relatively high
>self-noise and poor performance when recording loud material.
>
>However, in my brief tests the PMD620 sounded better than the specs
>might suggest.
>
>The built-in mics are adequate. They have a somewhat better sound
>when you point the top of the mic at the subject, holding the recorder
>as if it were a TV remote control. The sound is thinner and brighter
>when you point the front or back of the recorder at the subject (this
>points the top of the recorder and the mics at the ceiling). The belt
>clip includes a tripod socket, which enables you to properly orient
>the recorder on a stand of some sort.
>
>Handling noise is evident in the recording when the internal mics are
>used, as one might expect when the mics are less than 2 inches (50 mm)
>away from the controls. Less expected is a pronounced "click" added
>to the recording when the control button for mic gain is pressed.
>This is true with internal or external mics. Disappointing!
>
>When recording with the built-in mics and volume set to maximum, a
>broad-spectrum hissy background sound is noticeable. After plugging
>in external mics, the preamp becomes much quieter. At a gain setting
>just lower than maximum, the recordings I made with a Sennheiser
>ME20/K6 mic were very clear and sounded natural.
>
>Compared to my Oade-modified PMD660, the PMD620 was a bit noisier, but
>sounded very good as long as the preamp gain was held a little below
>maximum. Overall, I'd say the PMD620's preamp is better than the
>stock PMD660, and similar to the well-regarded Sony Hi-MD minidisc
>recorder.
>
>The PMD620 menu system allows you to configure many parameters for
>your recording session:
>Input select (auto or manual select of internal or external mic)
>Record format (low, medium or high bit rate MP3, plus 16 or 24 bit WAV)
>Stereo or Mono
>WAV sample rate (44.1 or 48 thousand samples per second)
>Ability to manually split tracks
>Silent Skip
>Auto level control
>Mic attenuation (0, -12, -24)
>Low cut filter
>dB level of warning LED (-6dB, -12dB, -20dB, -38dB and -54dB)
>Skip Back duration (1 to 60 seconds)
>File sort (by date/time file was created, or by name)
>Date format (M/D/Y or D/M/Y)
>LED font size (large or small)
>Auto Power Down (on or off)
>Battery type (Alkaline or NiMH rechargeable)
>Key Lock (all keys or partial
>main LED display on or off
>LED brightness
>Machine ID (a 7 character name for the machine)
>
>Fortunately, the PMD620 remembers up to three sets of parameters,
>making it easy to switch between setups without checking all the above
>choices. You can save a preset to the flash memory card and copy it
>to a second PMD620, ensuring the two recorders are set up the same.
>
>The PMD620 package includes a 512MB SD card, which is enough space for
>half an hour or more of recording. The PMD620 can record in monaural
>mode as well as stereo. This is useful if you're using a single mic
>and need to save space on the flash memory card.
>
>Marantz claims that the PMD620 will continue to record as long as
>there is file space. There is no 2GB limit to file size. I'll try
>to verify this is correct.
>
>Now that the stylish PMD620 has arrived, is there a reason to consider
>the larger PMD660? I think so. The $475 PMD660 has XLR inputs and
>phantom power for pro mics, and its design makes it easy to operate
>while it hangs from your shoulder. The PMD660 has large, easy to use
>controls, individual gain controls for each input channel, and better
>metering than the PMD620 has.
>
>The PMD620's main competition are the Edirol R-09 ($375), the M-Audio
>Microtrack II ($300), and the Zoom H2 ($200). All three are about the
>same size as the PMD620.
>
>The R-09 is very similar, with two built-in mics and AA power. I
>don't have an R-09 for side-by-side comparison, but I'd say the R-09's
>mic preamps sound very similar to the PMD620's preamps. And adjusting
>the preamp gain does not add "click" sounds to the recording.
>
>However, the R-09 is notorious for failures of its 1/8-inch input
>jacks. They are poorly soldered and develop problems even with the
>most careful handling. It's too early to say if the PMD620 will be
>more reliable, but Marantz has a good reputation for building solid
>equipment.
>
>The Microtrack lacks the built-in mics and field-replaceable
>batteries, but offers 24/96 digitization, and SPDIF digital input.
>There have been far fewer input jack failures reported by Microtrack
>owners. The Microtrack uses Compactflash cards.
>
>The Zoom H2 offers two and four channel recording options using its
>built-in mic array. Recordings via the external mic jack can have
>high noise levels. The circuits supporting the built-in mics and line
>input are quieter. The H2 is a little larger and heavier than the
>others mentioned here, and the preamp is a little noisier. At half
>the price of the others mentioned above, many buyers are willing to
>overlook the H2's shortcomings.
>
>The PMD620 joins the R-09 and Zoom H2 as good choices for a "point and
>shoot" recorder that is small enough to be carried discretely
>anywhere, and able to capture those serendipitous recording moments.
>With external mics, the PMD620 is capable of excellent performance.
>
Thanks for the useful run-down, Oryoki. Your analogy of a "point and
shoot" recorder is a good one.
For those who appreciate the advantages of low-noise mics, the most
important development in recorders might be the lowering of the
price-point of recorders with phantom powering and low-noise/high
gain mic preamps like the Fostex FR-2LE. For only $90USD more than a
PMD620, one can invest in a recorder that can excel in the most
demanding situations. While miniaturization, itself, can be amazing,
the FR-2LE is still small enough to slip into a large coat pocket,
fanny pack or small camera case. Rob D.
--
About the Fostex FR-2LE, Rob Danielson wrote:
> For only $90USD more than a PMD620, one can invest in a
> recorder that can excel in the most demanding situations.
Rob, I agree that the FR-2LE is a wonderful machine. Its preamps rank
with the best, it has XLR cable inputs, and the optional 7.2V 3600 mah
rechargeable battery has plenty of juice to provide phantom power to
mics that need it.
The Marantz PMD620 costs $400. The cheapest source I see online
tonight for the Fostex FR-2LE is $539. That's more than a $90
difference, but the point remains valid: You can spend somewhat more
and get a recorder with better all-around performance.
The PMD620's strength is its decent performance in a very compact
package. The analogy from the world of photography applies: While a
SLR camera gives better performance, a pocket-size point and shoot is
more likely to be taken along. Both have their place.
I spoke too soon about the price of the FR-2LE. Group member J. Young
pointed me to eBay, where several sellers are offering the FR-2LE, new
and in the factory packaging, for less than $500. So Rob D. was
correct when he said the FR-2LE could be purchased for a price similar
to the Marantz PMD620.
One seller's price for the FR-2LE is $399, with $20 shipping. This
seller had 10 remaining when I looked.
At that price, I couldn't resist! I bought one so I can compare it
side-by-side with the new Sony PCM-D50, which should arrive in early
December.
Regarding the preamps, did you or someone else proceed to some other
tests,
Do you think they are better than the ones of a HiMD like the RH1 or
the RH10?
I'd consider using it with an AT-822..
Kind regards,
JM.
--- In naturerecordists@yahoogroups.com, Rob Danielson <type@...>
wrote:
>
> At 1:34 AM +0000 11/21/07, oryoki2000 wrote:
> >The postman brought a surprise today: The new Marantz PMD620
> >recorder. Here is my review.
> >--oryoki
> >
> >Marantz PMD620 first impressions
> >
> >The PMD620 is a departure from the traditional Marantz designs.
The
> >PMD620 has an attractive, almost stylish appearance. The PMD620 is
> >built of black plastic, with grey metal covering the front. The
> >effect is rather elegant and professional. No one will mistake
this
> >new machine for a cassette tape recorder!
> >
> >The PMD620 is a small hand-held recorder. Two useful mics are
built
> >into the top of the PMD620, and a 1/8-inch jack is available for
an
> >external pair of mics. "Plug-in" power is available for external
mics
> >that use it. This $400 model records 24/48 WAV or MP3 files to
SDHC
> >flash cards.
> >
> >Hearing that the PMD620 is small doesn't prepare you for its
size. It
> >is literally 1/6 the volume and weight of the next largest
Marantz,
> >the PMD660. The PMD620 is almost identical in size to the current
> >Apple iPod "Classic", except that the PMD620 is one inch (25mm)
thick
> >to make room for two AA batteries. The PMD620 weighs about 6 oz
(170
> >g) ready to record. The recorder slides easily into a trouser or
> >jacket pocket, or attaches to your belt like a cell phone using
the
> >supplied clip.
> >
> >Like the iPod, the PMD620 is designed for one-hand operation.
> >Recording is started with one push of an oversize button. A large
> >OLED display keeps you informed about the recording. The display
is
> >easy to read indoors, difficult outside in shade, and completely
> >illegible in direct sun. Selecting the larger font size makes the
> >display easier to read.
> >
> >Slide the power switch, and the machine is ready to record in less
> >than 3 seconds. Press the large Record button and recording
starts.
> >Press the Record/Pause button instead, and the LED screen shows
the
> >metering system in action. The headphone jack lets you monitor the
> >recording in progress. Record Stop and Shut down are almost
> >instantaneous.
> >
> >Marantz claims the 2 AA cells can power the PMD620 for about 5
hours
> >of recording. The plastic door covering the battery compartment
seems
> >flimsy for a part that will see regular manipulation. The PMD620
can
> >also run on 6V DC power from an external source.
> >
> >The preamp specifications Marantz publishes for the PMD620 are
similar
> >to the specs of the PMD660 recorder. This is not a good sign,
because
> >the PMD660 is (correctly) criticized as having relatively high
> >self-noise and poor performance when recording loud material.
> >
> >However, in my brief tests the PMD620 sounded better than the
specs
> >might suggest.
> >
> >The built-in mics are adequate. They have a somewhat better sound
> >when you point the top of the mic at the subject, holding the
recorder
> >as if it were a TV remote control. The sound is thinner and
brighter
> >when you point the front or back of the recorder at the subject
(this
> >points the top of the recorder and the mics at the ceiling). The
belt
> >clip includes a tripod socket, which enables you to properly
orient
> >the recorder on a stand of some sort.
> >
> >Handling noise is evident in the recording when the internal mics
are
> >used, as one might expect when the mics are less than 2 inches
(50 mm)
> >away from the controls. Less expected is a pronounced "click"
added
> >to the recording when the control button for mic gain is pressed.
> >This is true with internal or external mics. Disappointing!
> >
> >When recording with the built-in mics and volume set to maximum, a
> >broad-spectrum hissy background sound is noticeable. After
plugging
> >in external mics, the preamp becomes much quieter. At a gain
setting
> >just lower than maximum, the recordings I made with a Sennheiser
> >ME20/K6 mic were very clear and sounded natural.
> >
> >Compared to my Oade-modified PMD660, the PMD620 was a bit
noisier, but
> >sounded very good as long as the preamp gain was held a little
below
> >maximum. Overall, I'd say the PMD620's preamp is better than the
> >stock PMD660, and similar to the well-regarded Sony Hi-MD minidisc
> >recorder.
> >
> >The PMD620 menu system allows you to configure many parameters for
> >your recording session:
> >Input select (auto or manual select of internal or external mic)
> >Record format (low, medium or high bit rate MP3, plus 16 or 24
bit WAV)
> >Stereo or Mono
> >WAV sample rate (44.1 or 48 thousand samples per second)
> >Ability to manually split tracks
> >Silent Skip
> >Auto level control
> >Mic attenuation (0, -12, -24)
> >Low cut filter
> >dB level of warning LED (-6dB, -12dB, -20dB, -38dB and -54dB)
> >Skip Back duration (1 to 60 seconds)
> >File sort (by date/time file was created, or by name)
> >Date format (M/D/Y or D/M/Y)
> >LED font size (large or small)
> >Auto Power Down (on or off)
> >Battery type (Alkaline or NiMH rechargeable)
> >Key Lock (all keys or partial
> >main LED display on or off
> >LED brightness
> >Machine ID (a 7 character name for the machine)
> >
> >Fortunately, the PMD620 remembers up to three sets of parameters,
> >making it easy to switch between setups without checking all the
above
> >choices. You can save a preset to the flash memory card and copy
it
> >to a second PMD620, ensuring the two recorders are set up the
same.
> >
> >The PMD620 package includes a 512MB SD card, which is enough
space for
> >half an hour or more of recording. The PMD620 can record in
monaural
> >mode as well as stereo. This is useful if you're using a single
mic
> >and need to save space on the flash memory card.
> >
> >Marantz claims that the PMD620 will continue to record as long as
> >there is file space. There is no 2GB limit to file size. I'll try
> >to verify this is correct.
> >
> >Now that the stylish PMD620 has arrived, is there a reason to
consider
> >the larger PMD660? I think so. The $475 PMD660 has XLR inputs and
> >phantom power for pro mics, and its design makes it easy to
operate
> >while it hangs from your shoulder. The PMD660 has large, easy to
use
> >controls, individual gain controls for each input channel, and
better
> >metering than the PMD620 has.
> >
> >The PMD620's main competition are the Edirol R-09 ($375), the M-
Audio
> >Microtrack II ($300), and the Zoom H2 ($200). All three are about
the
> >same size as the PMD620.
> >
> >The R-09 is very similar, with two built-in mics and AA power. I
> >don't have an R-09 for side-by-side comparison, but I'd say the R-
09's
> >mic preamps sound very similar to the PMD620's preamps. And
adjusting
> >the preamp gain does not add "click" sounds to the recording.
> >
> >However, the R-09 is notorious for failures of its 1/8-inch input
> >jacks. They are poorly soldered and develop problems even with the
> >most careful handling. It's too early to say if the PMD620 will be
> >more reliable, but Marantz has a good reputation for building
solid
> >equipment.
> >
> >The Microtrack lacks the built-in mics and field-replaceable
> >batteries, but offers 24/96 digitization, and SPDIF digital input.
> >There have been far fewer input jack failures reported by
Microtrack
> >owners. The Microtrack uses Compactflash cards.
> >
> >The Zoom H2 offers two and four channel recording options using
its
> >built-in mic array. Recordings via the external mic jack can have
> >high noise levels. The circuits supporting the built-in mics and
line
> >input are quieter. The H2 is a little larger and heavier than the
> >others mentioned here, and the preamp is a little noisier. At half
> >the price of the others mentioned above, many buyers are willing
to
> >overlook the H2's shortcomings.
> >
> >The PMD620 joins the R-09 and Zoom H2 as good choices for
a "point and
> >shoot" recorder that is small enough to be carried discretely
> >anywhere, and able to capture those serendipitous recording
moments.
> >With external mics, the PMD620 is capable of excellent
performance.
> >
>
> Thanks for the useful run-down, Oryoki. Your analogy of a "point
and
> shoot" recorder is a good one.
>
> For those who appreciate the advantages of low-noise mics, the
most
> important development in recorders might be the lowering of the
> price-point of recorders with phantom powering and low-noise/high
> gain mic preamps like the Fostex FR-2LE. For only $90USD more than
a
> PMD620, one can invest in a recorder that can excel in the most
> demanding situations. While miniaturization, itself, can be
amazing,
> the FR-2LE is still small enough to slip into a large coat pocket,
> fanny pack or small camera case. Rob D.
> --
>
At 4:48 PM +0000 12/10/07, jmcharcot wrote:
>Thanks for this review..
>
>Regarding the preamps, did you or someone else proceed to some other
>tests, do you think they are better than the ones of a HiMD like the RH1 or
>the RH10? I'd consider using it with an AT-822..
>
>Kind regards,
>
>JM.
Hi JM--
In terms of noise performance, the AT-822's "self-noise" [~24dB(A)]
is likely to be appreciably louder and "mask" much or all of the mic
preamps' noise associated with all of these recorders unless the
PMD620 is much noisier than its predecessors (unlikely). The same
would probably be true for many, older MD recorders. Based on some
tests with Hi-MD mic pres, one could begin to hear some preamp noise
performance differences when the mics' self noise is lowered into the
realm of 12dB(A). Rob D.
--
I have been reading many posts about preamp noise and microphones
self-noise (including an interesting thread "new recorder - mic pre
factors" – http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/naturerecordists/message/18839),
but I still cannot figure out what gear to buy.
(a) If I were to record chamber music at a concert hall with a
Marantz PMD-620 + MM-BSM-8, there would be any perceptible hiss from
the mics or preamps?
(b) There would be a lesser amount of hiss with MKE-2 Sennheiser
capsules option?
(c) If a choose MKE-2 Sennheiser capsules, would be better to buy,
for instance, a Sony PCM-D50 (which I presume has a better preamp
than PMD-620)? Would the MKE2 self-noise (~27dB) be capable of
masking the flash recorder preamp?
(d) Is there any in-ear binaural mic with lower self-noise?
I would appreciate any comments, given the fact that I live in Brazil
and is very hard to test those new devices here.
Best regards,
Jose Luis
> Hi JM--
> In terms of noise performance, the AT-822's "self-noise" [~24dB(A)]
> is likely to be appreciably louder and "mask" much or all of the
mic
> preamps' noise associated with all of these recorders unless the
> PMD620 is much noisier than its predecessors (unlikely). The same
> would probably be true for many, older MD recorders. Based on some
> tests with Hi-MD mic pres, one could begin to hear some preamp
noise
> performance differences when the mics' self noise is lowered into
the
> realm of 12dB(A). Rob D.
When the sound source is moderately loud, as with
a symphonic concert, mic placement is usually a
greater determinant than differences in
self-noise performance with most, popular
electret mics. With loud music and near-to-stage
mic placement, one should be able to make fairly
noise-free recordings. If you have to turn-up
the recorder gain above ~1/2 way-- as with the
music that is performed at low volume or you are
recording from considerable distance-- all
electret mics are likely to contribute at least
some, audible noise.
The MM-BSM-8 mic is rated at 34 dB(A) self-noise.
Recordings made with mics that have somewhat
lower self-noise like the MKE-2 [28dB(A)] or the
Shure WL-183 [22.5dB(A)] might be preferable--
but don't expect a huge improvement.
You do not need to invest a lot of money on a
recorder to use with electret mics. The noise
inherent in the microphone preamp of many older,
MD recorders, for example, is low enough to be
obscured by the self-noise produced by electret
mics. For reference, you would need mics with
around 12dB(A) self-noise* to begin to take
advantage of a more expensive recorder with very
low-noise mic pres like a Fostex FR-2LE. Rob D.
* Which is considerably lower than all electret
mics I know of besides the EMKS-23's which
might(?) be border-line with ~14dB(A) self noise.
= = = =
At 11:00 PM +0000 12/12/07, argentino_sf wrote:
>Dear all,
>
>I have been reading many posts about preamp noise and microphones
>self-noise (including an interesting thread "new recorder - mic pre
>factors" –
><http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/naturerecordists/message/18839>http://tech.\
groups.yahoo.com/group/naturerecordists/message/18839),
>but I still cannot figure out what gear to buy.
>
>I have narrowed to Marantz PMD-620 and Microphone Madness MM-BSM-8 in
>ear binaural mics, with stock capsules (not Sennheiser MKE-2
>capsules –
><http://www.microphonemadness.com/products/mmtrunathook.htm>http://www.micropho\
nemadness.com/products/mmtrunathook.htm).
>
>My newbie questions are:
>
>(a) If I were to record chamber music at a concert hall with a
>Marantz PMD-620 + MM-BSM-8, there would be any perceptible hiss from
>the mics or preamps?
>
>(b) There would be a lesser amount of hiss with MKE-2 Sennheiser
>capsules option?
>
>(c) If a choose MKE-2 Sennheiser capsules, would be better to buy,
>for instance, a Sony PCM-D50 (which I presume has a better preamp
>than PMD-620)? Would the MKE2 self-noise (~27dB) be capable of
>masking the flash recorder preamp?
>
>(d) Is there any in-ear binaural mic with lower self-noise?
>
>I would appreciate any comments, given the fact that I live in Brazil
>and is very hard to test those new devices here.
>
>Best regards,
>
>Jose Luis
>
>> Hi JM--
>> In terms of noise performance, the AT-822's "self-noise" [~24dB(A)]
>> is likely to be appreciably louder and "mask" much or all of the
>mic
>> preamps' noise associated with all of these recorders unless the
>> PMD620 is much noisier than its predecessors (unlikely). The same
>> would probably be true for many, older MD recorders. Based on some
>> tests with Hi-MD mic pres, one could begin to hear some preamp
>noise
>> performance differences when the mics' self noise is lowered into
>the
> > realm of 12dB(A). Rob D.
>
--
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