NAMM News: New Fostex MR-8 Digital Muti-Track Studio with CompactFlash
(Fostex | Posted 2003-01-19)
Fostex has introduced the industry's first solid-state memory recorder to use the popular CompactFlash Card media, according to Product Manager Derek Badala.
"We're very excited about the MR-8," Badala said, "because it combines the latest technology of CompactFlash Cards with the proven tactile technology of faders, knobs and buttons--all combined in a great sounding, easy to use, very affordable 8-track recorder/mixer."
Recording and playback are via uncompressed, linear 16-bit/44.1kHz digital audio circuits in normal mode. Recording time is about 25 track-minutes on a 128MB CompactFlash Card (supplied). The Extended Mode doubles the time available and larger capacity flash cards are also available.
The compact MR-8 measures 2.5" x 12" x 8.5" (H x W x D) and weighs 3.5 lbs; operating on 6 AA alkaline batteries, it offers about 3 hours of recording time in the normal mode. "We designed the MR-8 with the working band in mind," Badala said, "and it's especially well-suited for the itinerant singer/songwriter."
The unit features a host of on-board effects, including reverb, delay, guitar distortion, amp simulation, mic simulation, and mastering settings. There are dual XLR mic inputs, 2 guitar inputs and 2 headphone outputs.
Other features include a USB port for .WAV file import/export, archiving and CD burning via a PC interface, S/PDIF digital output and a built-in microphone for memos, notes and quick recordings of ideas. CompactFlash media is, of course, essentially computer based. So cards can go directly from the MR-8 to a laptop, for example, as creative work continues.
A 128 x 64 dot matrix display and self-illuminating keys to show current status are designed to aid operation. "It cannot be stressed enough how easy and intuitive the MR-8 is to use, Badala explained, "We have received tremendous feedback from customers who complain about confusing men-driven operating systems on other recorders, and we took great pains to avoid these mistakes."
"As a final touch, we priced the new MR-8 at just $299.00 MSRP," Badala concluded, "We feel certain that customers will find this price to be extremely attractive, because it is competitive with several digital 4-track recorders now on the market."
For more information, visit their web site at www.fostex.com.
