Topic: Edirol R-09 FAQ -- Updated 8-01-2008

[lbgspam]

Please do not ask questions about how to use the R-09 or other types of R-09 commentary in this thread. Please use this thread to provide FAQ answers, new FAQ questions, or FAQ suggestions and I will add all to this first message.  Thanks!

Need answer to question 19 -- Please help! Thanks! 


Pre-FAQ Items:
Latest firmware -- 1.31 is the latest firmware. Be sure you upgrade to this version before asking questions about why something isn't working. download here 

FAQ
1) Do 4gb SD cards work? Yes. Users report the following Transcend 4gb SD card from Newegg works well (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820163159).
The SDHC cards are now on the market and cost the same as the above card, so it makes better sense to get the SDHC 4gb.  Make sure you are using the latest firmware for the R-09 (see pre-faq for latest firmware).

1A) Do 8gb SDHC cards work? -- YES!! 8gb SDHC cards seem to now work thanks to firmware 1.30!!

1B) Do 16gb and 32gb SDHC cards work? -- YES!! Both work thanks to firmware 1.31!!

1C) Invalid header fix: Some users have gotten invalid headers on the 2gb+ sound files (SOME), here is a fix http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=71825.0

2) Does it have a digital input?  No.

3) Does it have a digital output? Yes. Digital out is an optical 1/8" jack  (shared with the analog/headphone out).  The digital/analog out is active during recording when enabled via a menu.

4) What is the quality of the A->D?  Comparison threads to participate in evaulating http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=70838.0 and this continuation http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=70847.0

5) Does Roland plan on making "official" support for 4gb SD cards?  Yes and they have as of 1.10 firmware!

6) Is there a mic input jack problem?  Some users are saying they have their mic input jacks break after just a couple of uses.  Not sure yet if there was just an initial batch issue as it seems these units were mostly purchased in the June-July 2006.  Thread on it is here: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=71160.0.

GuySonic has done a further analysis of the input jack problem and seems to have determined the source of the problem and a way to fix it (if you are handy with a sodering gun): http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=71160.msg963038#msg963038

7) What's the quality of the mic input? See http://www.sonicstudios.com/r-09revw.htm for some noise graphs.  Thanks udovdh!

8 ) What's the quality of the line level input?  See http://www.sonicstudios.com/r-09revw.htm for some noise graphs.  Thanks udovdh!

9) Should I record using line-in or mic in? See question 11 response.

10) Should I buy the R-09 or the Microtrack?  Well, since this is a FAQ for the R-09 you can say that we are a little biased.  However, while the microtrack with the latest firmeware seems to have resolved the major issues, users still report the microtrack to have some issues.  Therefore, unless you must have a digital input, recommend the R-09 over the Microtrack.

11) What sort of noise is generated by the R-09? Check this thread: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=69131.0

12) What line-in level is optimal? According to messages, such as this one, level setting 8: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=68518.msg947298#msg947298
This level setting is up for re-discussion http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,91851.0/all.html


13) Do you have any recommended technical/taper oriented reviews to read?  Yes. Try this one:  http://www.sonicstudios.com/r-09revw.htm

14) What bit rate recordings are supported? 16 and 24 bit

15) What sampling rate recordings are supported? 44.1 and 48.

16) What are the power requirements? Two AA batteries. Runs ~7 hours on 2500mah NIMH batteries. Regular Duracells Vs. 2 kinds of 2700 mAh NiMH comparison -- http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=72305.0

17) Phantom power? No. It does have an option to provide plug power at 3.3v volts which is enough to run many mics such as the AT-853. This power is not enough for very loud sound levels with AT-853.  3.3v is what is stated in the manual, but Nuetrino & SunWizard both measured the mic powering at 2.49v.  Not certain if this varies depending on the battery type used.

18) What configuration are the internal microphones? Omni directional mics. The internal mics are 120 degress from each other. This can be referenced here: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=68518.msg939366#msg939366
Stereo separation & imaging of the internal mics can be greatly improved with a simple folding Jecklin-like baffle http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=70134.msg939775#msg939775

19) What is the quality of recordings using the internal microphones? Need help from the techys

20) Are there any internal pictures of the R-09?  Yes.  Right here thanks to neutrino http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=65175.msg906758#msg906758

21) Can you fast forward & rewind with sound? Yes. http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=70756.0

22) What's a good price for the R-09? $339 http://www.bpmmusic.com/ with free shipping. However, email them for a quote or call them and buy it on the phone. It's not listed on their web page.

23) Why get the R-09 over a MD/HIMD recorder? Discussion in this thread: http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=71130.0

24) What can I do about the BIG RED recording light?  Big red light now can be turned off in the power save settings as of firmware 1.20!

25) Can the display brightness be adjusted? Display brightness can be adjusted from bright to dim & will return to the dimmest setting (but not completely off) after a specified time via menu setting.  It is not especially dim in a dark room (where darker or off would be nice), nor is the bright setting very readable in direct sunlight (needs shading to view).

26) Any case alternatives to the Edirol? BodyGlove cellphone case fits well and is much less expensive than the Edirol case.  Body Glove neoprene mesh Cell Suit case recomended by Eskin HERE
Modifications to the case for side button, hold & headphone jack access http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=68518.msg939736#msg939736

27) 1.10 Firmware Questions -- 1.20 now released. As of the 1.10 firmware, unit will create seamless splits in the recording file at the 2gb point of a recording. If you don't want this split, do not use 1.10 or higher firmware and stay at 1.03.  Additionally the firmware 1.10 or higher enables SDHC support and many other changes.  Full discussion here

28) 1.20 Firmware Questions  -- Discussion thread here

29) Recording Times -- http://digitalmedia.oreilly.com/images/oreilly/digitalmedia/2006/08/09-record-time.jpg

30) What size are the inputs? -- All inputs are 1/8 size - mic-in, line-in, and headphone/digital-out

31) 1.30 Firmware Questions -- Discussion thread
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=90656.0

32) 1.31 Firmware Questions -- Adds support for 16 and 32gb SDHC cards.  Discussion thread
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,105007.0.html

33) What is a R09HR? -- Upgraded R09 from Edirol, came out about 2 months ago.  Variety of pluses and minuses to it versus the older R09. More info that you could possibly ever want http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,105893.0.html

[Nick Graham]

FWIW, "Some users report that it gives the V3 a run for its money" doesn't belong in a FAQ. This should be reported facts, not a very small percentage of owners' opinion.

[lbgspam]

FWIW, "Some users report that it gives the V3 a run for its money" doesn't belong in a FAQ. This should be reported facts, not a very small percentage of owners' opinion.

I read in a thread comparing them that users were reporting it was either indistinguishable or better.  Would it better to just reference the thread here?

[twoheadedboy]

FWIW, "Some users report that it gives the V3 a run for its money" doesn't belong in a FAQ. This should be reported facts, not a very small percentage of owners' opinion.

I read in a thread comparing them that users were reporting it was either indistinguishable or better.  Would it better to just reference the thread here?

How about both? The summary opinion, and the thread link for the blind test.

I know it's hard for some to believe that if you don't spend $1,000's on equipment that you can't get great results, but SOMETIMES, it's true

[lbgspam]

FWIW, "Some users report that it gives the V3 a run for its money" doesn't belong in a FAQ. This should be reported facts, not a very small percentage of owners' opinion.

I read in a thread comparing them that users were reporting it was either indistinguishable or better.  Would it better to just reference the thread here?

How about both? The summary opinion, and the thread link for the blind test.



I know it's hard for some to believe that if you don't spend $1,000's on equipment that you can't get great results, but SOMETIMES, it's true

Agreed.  Done.

[twoheadedboy]

I would still like the definitive word on the gain levels though. Has anyone contacted Roland about this?

[lbgspam]

I would still like the definitive word on the gain levels though. Has anyone contacted Roland about this?

Please keep this sort of question out of this thread as it is off-topic .
Once you get the answer please let me know and I will add it to the FAQ.

[digifish_music]

You should also have

What is the quality of recordings using the internal microphones.

What configuration are the internal microphones

[lbgspam]

You should also have

What is the quality of recordings using the internal microphones.

What configuration are the internal microphones

Sounds great. Do you have answers? :d

[dorrcoq]

Big +T for a worthwhile project!

[neutrino]

What configuration are the internal microphones

The internal mics are 120 degress from each other. This can be referenced in an image about half way down the page at the link below. Thanks to Gutbucket for capturing that one.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=68518.195

It would also nice to reference a file size table similar to this one... http://24bit.turtleside.com/pcm.wav.file.sizes.pdf

Also, some internal pictures I took which may be of some use can be found in this thread.
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=65175.255

[lbgspam]

What configuration are the internal microphones

The internal mics are 120 degress from each other. This can be referenced in an image about half way down the page at the link below. Thanks to Gutbucket for capturing that one.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=68518.195

It would also nice to reference a file size table similar to this one... http://24bit.turtleside.com/pcm.wav.file.sizes.pdf

Also, some internal pictures I took which may be of some use can be found in this thread.
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=65175.255

Thanks! Added to the FAQ!

[SunWizard]

17. Phantom power, no.  It does have an option to provide plug power at 3.3v volts which is enough to run many mics such as the AT-853. This power is not enough for very loud sound levels with AT-853.

Maybe add to #16, How long will it record?  Around 7 hours on a pair of 2500 mah NiMh rechargable batteries.

[lbgspam]

17. Phantom power, no.  It does have an option to provide plug power at 3.3v volts which is enough to run many mics such as the AT-853. This power is not enough for very loud sound levels with AT-853.

Maybe add to #16, How long will it record?  Around 7 hours on a pair of 2500 mah NiMh rechargable batteries.

Great additions.  Added! Thanks!

[Gutbucket]

17. Phantom power, no.  It does have an option to provide plug power at 3.3v volts which is enough to run many mics such as the AT-853. This power is not enough for very loud sound levels with AT-853.

^
3.3v is what is stated in the manual, but Nuetrino & SunWizard both measured the mic powering at 2.49v.  I'm not certain if this varies depending on the battery type used.

~Digital out is an optical 1/8" jack (shared with the analog/headphone out)
~The digital/analog out is active for during recording when enabled via a menu.
~4GB cards can be formated by connecting the recorder to the computer via the USB cable, no external reader is required to format.
~BodyGlove cellphone case fits well and is much less expensive than the Edirol case.
~Big red recording light and ways to dim it: tape/nail polish on the LED (requires disassembly), tape on the button, tape on the clear cover of the case.
~Display brightness can be adjusted from bright to dim & will return to the dimmest setting (but not completely off) after a specified time via menu setting.
   It is not especially dim in a dark room (where darker or off would be nice), nor is the bright setting very readable in direct sunlight (needs shading to view).

I'm sure there's plenty more but that just comes to mind..

[lbgspam]

17. Phantom power, no.  It does have an option to provide plug power at 3.3v volts which is enough to run many mics such as the AT-853. This power is not enough for very loud sound levels with AT-853.

^
3.3v is what is stated in the manual, but Nuetrino & SunWizard both measured the mic powering at 2.49v.  I'm not certain if this varies depending on the battery type used.

~Digital out is an optical 1/8" jack (shared with the analog/headphone out)
~The digital/analog out is active for during recording when enabled via a menu.
~4GB cards can be formated by connecting the recorder to the computer via the USB cable, no external reader is required to format.
~BodyGlove cellphone case fits well and is much less expensive than the Edirol case.
~Big red recording light and ways to dim it: tape/nail polish on the LED (requires disassembly), tape on the button, tape on the clear cover of the case.
~Display brightness can be adjusted from bright to dim & will return to the dimmest setting (but not completely off) after a specified time via menu setting.
   It is not especially dim in a dark room (where darker or off would be nice), nor is the bright setting very readable in direct sunlight (needs shading to view).

I'm sure there's plenty more but that just comes to mind..

EXCELLENT! Thanks! I just added.

Can you provide a link to the body glove cell phone case you recommended?

[Gutbucket]

Body Glove neoprene mesh Cell Suit case recomended by Eskin way back on page 2 of the origional release info thread> http://www.bodyglove.com/products/product_buy.php?uselist=showcase&selected_prod=http%3A%2F%2Fbodyglove.mwrc.net%2Fxml%2Fen%2Fproduct.xml%3Fproduct_id%3D9180%26include_offline_products%3Dyes%26include_offline_retailers%3Dyes

Modifications to the case for side button, hold & headphone jack access> http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=68518.msg939736#msg939736

Stereo separation & imaging of the internal mics can be greatly improved with a simple folding Jecklin-like baffle> http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=70134.msg939775#msg939775

[lbgspam]

Body Glove neoprene mesh Cell Suit case recomended by Eskin way back on page 2 of the origional release info thread> http://www.bodyglove.com/products/product_buy.php?uselist=showcase&selected_prod=http%3A%2F%2Fbodyglove.mwrc.net%2Fxml%2Fen%2Fproduct.xml%3Fproduct_id%3D9180%26include_offline_products%3Dyes%26include_offline_retailers%3Dyes

Modifications to the case for side button, hold & headphone jack access> http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=68518.msg939736#msg939736

Stereo separation & imaging of the internal mics can be greatly improved with a simple folding Jecklin-like baffle> http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=70134.msg939775#msg939775

Excellent! Added with many thanks!

[Gutbucket]

Careful with that input jack, Eugene.

[Zaphod]

Check it out here Moke:

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=65175.msg906758#msg906758

[lbgspam]

anyone opened one of these yet?
it would be great to get some pics.
you all know of my past history of opening stuff (the dremel debacle). So, I'll leave that adventure to the more qualified.

Pics were already in the FAQ btw...

[Gutbucket]

anyone opened one of these yet?
it would be great to get some pics.
you all know of my past history of opening stuff (the dremel debacle). So, I'll leave that adventure to the more qualified.

More info on sucessfull opening technique: Open says 'uh' me

[china_rider]

If you want to add a general entry about battery life I just did a test with 3 different types of batteries over the weekend.  Regular Duracells Vs. 2 kinds of 2700 mAh NiMH.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=72305.0

[lbgspam]

If you want to add a general entry about battery life I just did a test with 3 different types of batteries over the weekend.  Regular Duracells Vs. 2 kinds of 2700 mAh NiMH.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=72305.0

Thanks, added to FAQ

[Gutbucket]

Great info here, thanks.How do you split / merge tracks on the R09? Sorry if this was covered, the thread is kinda large ;-)

You don't.
The recorder itself can be used to record, delete & rename files.  Splitting/merging tracks must be done in post.

[lbgspam]

Thanks Gut, I currently place track marks on my MD so I've never done it on the PC, will Nero do that?

Guys, wrong thread to discuss this MD stuff, please move elsewhere and delete your posts.  Thanks!:)

[Brian Skalinder]

Your posts are completely inappropriate for this thread.

Bob - I agree you should start discrete posts in the appropriate forums for your follow-on questions (like about Nero, in the Computer Recording forum).  Not only will you receive better / more complete advice because more people will see them, but it will also make it easier for others to find answers to those same questions later.

That said, nearly -every- thread has inappropriate content, whether it's completely off-topic in a general sense, or off-topic and related specifically to a different question / issue / device / etc.  It's a constant battle and I gave up attempted enforcement long ago.  It's hard enough just keeping up with all the threads posted to the wrong forum - some by the same members, ad nauseum - much less those posted -within- threads.  You're not alone, it's just that in this case someone actually attempted to enforce some structure to a TS thread.  It's rare for someone to actually try to keep a thread on-topic, but I agree in principle it's a good idea.

Hmmmm...maybe I should delete this post...it's off-topic, too... 

[skokiebob]

Well, this occasional poster, almost always looking for advice from all the very helpful, knowledgeable folks here, has deleted his inappropriate, off topic posts. Sorry to have pissed off Freelunch. I guess since he's not a Mod (or is he?) he doesn't have to be as courteous as Brian.

[gtalife]

Anybody patched this thing into SBD yet?   Any differences, compared to, for example a JB3

Just have to say, that i have done several audience recordings with this machine, and have been thrilled to bits with the ease of operation, and the results of the recordings.

also would like to thank everbody that has shared info on the R-09 on this and previous threads.

[guysonic]

Found the display impossible to read outside in daylight. 

After much trouble, luckily found a protective case AND daylight viewing hood 'in-one' solution.

Posted photos in the R-09 review at: www.sonicstudios.com/r-09revw.htm#vu

[guysonic]

Another good thing to know is R-09 MIC/LINE input jacks in certain 2006 production runs were NOT soldered correctly, and this caused early jack connection failures even with being careful with not stressing these normally delicate inputs.

So here's another view of deck's tear-down, and two views of these connections with suggestions.

[lbgspam]

Another good thing to know is R-09 MIC/LINE input jacks in certain 2006 production runs were NOT soldered correctly, and this caused early jack connection failures even with being careful with not stressing these normally delicate inputs.

So here's another view of deck's tear-down, and two views of these connections with suggestions.

Do you have any idea which production runs (perhaps serial number ranges) have this problem?

[guysonic]

Just got a note back from schoepsnbox who reports that he loaned an r09 to a friend and it came back with a busted jack..  He opened it up to discover that the traces ripped off the board..  He ended up epoxying the connector to the board.

I opened mine up this weekend and the solder looked pretty good.  Touched it up a bit. But I doubt that will prevent any trace lifting, if things come to that.. I have also considered that soldering a short pigtail cable to the board might be better for some than just epoxying the jack down.

I doubt the pigtail lead is practical as read.  These jacks need be SOLID down on the board. If the jacks are not fixed in place, even pigtail leads will eventually fatique and break.

If there were enough bad solder connections on any jack (there are 4-5 soldered pads on each) give way, the forced of a (especially straight) plug is enough to lift the remaining good soldered pad(s) completely from the boards glued surface as noted in one instance.

In this case, a pigtail IS likely needed on ONLY the ripped-and-torn-off pad connection AFTER the jack is carefully glued back down, soldered to the remaining board pads.  Short of a ripped pad, good soldered pads using good soldering practice should remedy the situation for most.

Because of extensive use of surface mounted connectors, this is another mini deck that needs EXTRA CAREFUL handling if using straight and most badly engineered right-angled mini plugs.   

In past threads, ONLY two right angle plugs were found to have low enough profile, AND flexible enough cord to mostly prevent jack damaging stresses even if given a hard accidental bump or tug. 

Photo of one such very safe molded plug (Cardas may have the other good design) is below and is standard type on all products here that use 3.5 mm connections.

Adapters, short patches to mini jack/standard mic adapter cables-connectors are available (at least here) if wanting this very-safe type plug for R-09 interface working with your existing gear:

[schoepsnbox]

Despite what some may say, IMO it is a design flaw with these units regardless of serial # or date of manufacture.  These units were designed for the use of the internal mics not so much for patching in external pre's and such.  Great unit, it just has a few quirks one being the line/mic in jacks which are held in there with nothing more than a few solder joints, weak.  The boards are double sided with plated through holes, if your lucky only the solder joints will fracture which is a relatively easy fix.  In my case the jack lifted the traces off the board making the repair a little more difficult.  My solution to this issue was epoxying the jack to the board, had a few other thoughts but this made the most sense.  All IMO of course.  Hope this helps.

[guysonic]

Despite what some may say, IMO it is a design flaw with these units regardless of serial # or date of manufacture.  These units were designed for the use of the internal mics not so much for patching in external pre's and such.  Great unit, it just has a few quirks one being the line/mic in jacks which are held in there with nothing more than a few solder joints, weak.  The boards are double sided with plated through holes, if your lucky only the solder joints will fracture which is a relatively easy fix.  In my case the jack lifted the traces off the board making the repair a little more difficult.  My solution to this issue was epoxying the jack to the board, had a few other thoughts but this made the most sense.  All IMO of course.  Hope this helps.

Actually, I found the R-09 the MOST SUITABLE of all minidecks for external analog signal inputs, the minijack problem is a mechanical weakness that's best treated with more than a little bit of care. 

All minijacks are way too delicate not to be extra careful with what gets plugged in and how the plug is handled afterwards. 

If you pulled ALL THE TRACES up off the board, then obviously the soldering held just fine, but your use of a straight plug is likely, and severe bump or cord tug did the damage.   The jack internal contacts would likely have been weakened or otherwise compromised with such use, EVEN IF THE TRACES DIDN'T BREAK.

So suggest being more careful in the future, and consider a right angle plug of proper design to give needed margin against fatally stressing this type input.

[Gutbucket]

I've been using the 9" (I think) right angle stereo mini cable that came with a Headroom Total Airhead headphone amp I bought a few years ago to connect the R-09 and mic pre.  The cable alone is available inexpensively here . That length works perfectly if the two units are taped or velcro'd together.  If I use the two units that way every thing is neat & compact without protruding connectors to damage or snag. The ends are very low profile and the cable is very thin and flexible.  Most importantly for me, the right angle jack on that cable fits nicely into the recessed area where the output jack is located on the DPA MMA6000 mic-pre, & I've had a hard time finding 1/8" stereo mini right angle jacks that fit in there.

Using a right angle cord is especially important when I put the pre-amp in a bag or in one cargo pants pocket (or large regular pocket) and the recorder in the other.  Because the output jack is on the bottom of the preamp, a straight termination would stick out and not allow it to sit in the pocket or bag with the controls facing up.  Unfortunately the Headroom cable is too short to reach to the other pocket where I keep the recorder, so I currently extended it using a RatShack headphone extender which has an ooph straight end into the line in of the R-09.  Though I've been gentle with it in use, it is in a pocket and finally went wobbly and intermitant a few weeks back.  I've switched over to using the mic in jack since then as I have had things I wanted to record and haven't wanted to open it up or wait out a warranty claim right now.

Thanks to Leonard's pics I think I'll open it up and re-solder myself and probably epoxy the jack to strengthen the mounting.  I've considered eliminating the jack for a pig-tail since lifted traces from a strong, well soldered jack that gets bumped too hard is a worse problem I'd rather avoid.  Yeah, the pig tail could fatigue & break a conductor, but I could easily replace it with another.   

Of course what I really need is a 3' version of the Headroom cable, or some other 3' cable with two 1/8" stereo-mini right-angle ends that fits the recessed line out of the MMA6000.  That would make me more comfortable with re-soldering and strenghtening the exisitng jack.  Hell, some of those right angle jacks are freaking huge and are often paired with thick cable sheathing that puts the input jack at risk as much as a straight termination. DPA makes one which is a good quality cable that fits i'm sure, but it's bit pricey, and none of the other right angle cables I've found that do fit are as flexible or have ends that are as compact as the Headroom one to reduce the strain on the R-09 jack.

[Gutbucket]

^^^
Guysonic, I've heard good things about the quality of your cables with the amber colored right angle jacks. Can you confirm that your cables would fit in the recessed output of the DPA MMA6000? 

(I think this question is R-09 related enough to post)

[guysonic]

^^^
Guysonic, I've heard good things about the quality of your cables with the amber colored right angle jacks. Can you confirm that your cables would fit in the recessed output of the DPA MMA6000? 

(I think this question is R-09 related enough to post)

No idea on the fit.  Maybe someone with a MMA6000 knows someone having a piece of gear with one of my plugs on it to try out and post the results?

[Jamos]

I just purchased a Pelican 1010 microcase for my R-09.  It fits in there almost perfectly.  There's a bit of space around it, and I have a little bit of bubble wrap in there so that it stays nice and snug. 

For traveling and transport, this case works out perfectly for me.  No worries about scratches or damage to the unit while it's in my bag.

Hadn't seen anyone post about using this case, so I thought I would!

 

I can get pics if anyone's interested.

[guysonic]

I have a friend's mma6000 here... The center of the 1/8" socket is .250" from both near side walls.  The face of the socket is .325 below the surrounding lip.  The far wall is about .80" from the center of the socket.

So whether it fits would depend on whether the cable height is above that .325".. And whether the plastic part can fit in the .80" long space..

Didn't Moke use hot glue or epoxy to create an ultra low pro connector?  The mma design makes that very easy to do.. Though expoy is much harder to work with than hot glue.

With those measurements, it seems my plug will fit nicely if laid into the .80" long space leaving ~.20" for the plug's bare cable to 'climb' the remaining ~.10" height to clear the recessed area.

[bzhayes]

I had a hard time finding this som you might want to add it to the FAQ:

physical dimensions: 2.5" x 4.06" x 1.19"

[Gutbucket]

I store all my raw recodings as FLAC files.  To save some time when transfering files from the SD card to they computer, I open FLAC and set it read the WAV's from the SD card and write the resulting compressed files to a directory on the HD.  After confirming that the files were compressed and written correctly I re-format the SD card.  Done.

Saves time from copying the WAV's to HD, then compressing to FLAC, then checking files, then deleting the WAV's on the HD and formatting the card. Perhaps this is obvious, but I just started doing this and it works well for me, YMMV.

[it-goes-to-eleven]

I store all my raw recodings as FLAC files.  To save some time when transfering files from the SD card to they computer, I open FLAC and set it read the WAV's from the SD card and write the resulting compressed files to a directory on the HD.

I really don't want to get into a flac discussion in this FAQ thread but can't let that go by... I'm sure that workflow saves time but it may get you into serious trouble...

If the wav header says the file is 10 minutes and the file is actually 100 minutes, flac will only archive 10 minutes.  The rest will be lost.  The archive will test and verify just fine.  You may see a warning from flac about 'subchunk something wasn't right' but it will surely not convey the seriousness of the problem.  And, ultimately, flac exits with a "everything is cool" exit code rather than an error code.  So some flac front ends may assume everything is fine.

I've filed a bug against this but there are no plans to fix it in a way that would have flac save ALL of the data.  It is also a very low priority bug.  The flac guys naturally think the header should be corrected.. I see their point but I also have this thing about not modifying my master WAVs in any way.

[Gutbucket]

Thanks for the warning.  I usually check the error codes and look at the size of the resulting file. If anything seems amiss I'll play the begining and end of the FLAC to check.  I have occasional files with header issues that I just leave uncompressed, but you're exactly right, you have to be alert to catch it. I'll be even more careful now. I'd love to find a front end that checks the entire file and gives a OK or NOT OK, but that's for another thread.  [off topic side trip off/]

[gmm6797]

Firmware 1.10 to be released 11.17.06
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=75463.0

[phr]

newegg.com now has 8GB Transcend SDHC class 2 for $129.95, I see no reason to mess with smaller cards any more.

[gmm6797]

newegg.com now has 8GB Transcend SDHC class 2 for $129.95, I see no reason to mess with smaller cards any more.

Has anyone used one of these in the R09?

With which firmware/firmwares?

FYI, they are 118 @ mwave.com

[bluntforcetrauma]

please advise on which SD card to buy for this

I see the trascend 4GB SD card at neweg.com for like 49.97 and at buy.com for 130.00

why is there such a big difference in price with the SAME card

what am i missing?

[china_rider]

Transcend 4gig is fine... The earlier version will work fine with the newest firmware.  The newer version is SDHC 2.0 complaint.

FYI... I've had a few calls and emails with Edirol support and it is a known issue that SDHC 2.0 8Gig cards will not work.  I've been told that sizes up to 16gig will be supported soon, however, it is not a guaranty that it will be in the next firmware update.

[it-goes-to-eleven]

Edirol response to some concerns about the input jack.  I can't say I really like the answer from a "gear that lasts for years" perspective.   Mine hasn't failed but I guess I should just epoxy it up..


Support response:


I have an early R-09 and I\'ve heard the input jacks are prone to break. I know a number of people who have had the failure. I also have a friend who may purchase an r09 but is very concerned about the longevity of the input jack.  I have heard the new silicone reinforcement of the jack is still a poor fix and still prone to tear out.  Surface mount jacks rip out, that\'s a basic fact.  Without pins through the board, I don\'t see how the jack can last for years.

1. How long is the warranty on the input jack?
2. What is the typical cost of repair outside the warranty?
3. How long does repair take?
4. If someone buys an r-09 today, how long will the jack warranty last?




The warranty for the R-09 is one year parts, and 90 days labor. Here is a link to our website for more warranty info:

http://www.rolandus.com/support/?ssection=s_service_repair

For out-of-warranty work, we charge $70.00 per hour plus parts (charged in 15 minute increments). We would expect that the repair or replacement of a jack on most of our products would take 30 minutes to 1 hour or a techs time.

If you need more information on this, or if you need to have a product serviced, please contact our Customer Service department at 1-323-890-3700 x2289. They are available Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30am and 5pm Pacific Standard Time.

Sincerely,
Roland Product Support

[dorrcoq]

I don't know...to me a design flaw should mean a factory recall, not warranty or out-of-warranty work.

[Zaphod]

I don't know...to me a design flaw should mean a factory recall, not warranty or out-of-warranty work.

Yeah I agree, but they haven't declared it a design flaw. 

All I know is that I am extra careful whenever I plug-in/out the jack and make sure it can't be harmed when taping.

[mike1061]

It doesn't even look like they admit there is a problem with the jack.
I don't think they will recall what the don't admit.
Thanks Mike

[dorrcoq]

I don't know...to me a design flaw should mean a factory recall, not warranty or out-of-warranty work.

Yeah I agree, but they haven't declared it a design flaw. 

All I know is that I am extra careful whenever I plug-in/out the jack and make sure it can't be harmed when taping.

Get a flexible adapter and leave it plugged in at all times, then plug your mics or pre into the adapter.  I got mine from Guy Sonic.  The less you wiggle things in and out of the unit's jack the better.

[ballerusk]

Is it possible to update the FAQ reg. the latest firmware (1.20) and thus the solved problem with the red light? 

[lbgspam]

Is it possible to update the FAQ reg. the latest firmware (1.20) and thus the solved problem with the red light? 

Yes. It is updated. Thanks for the reminder

[bluntforcetrauma]

anyone have issues with the trascend 4GB 150x SD card?

or should i just stick with the original trascend 4GB

please advise

[lbgspam]

anyone have issues with the trascend 4GB 150x SD card?

or should i just stick with the original trascend 4GB

please advise

At this point I would say to only buy the SDHC version, for future proofing.

[bluntforcetrauma]

thank you

proofing?

[gmm6797]

anyone have issues with the trascend 4GB 150x SD card?

No problems with any of the 3 I have been running in the R09 since August

[bluntforcetrauma]

thank you

[Arni99]

I hope with the next firmware upgrade, the peak light will be ON when the REC-light is OFF, or at least there should be an option in the menue to configure it as desired.
PEAK ON/OFF when unit is in REC-mode with REC-light OFF.

[udovdh]

And proper support for SDHC cards of 8GB or larger, please.

[EvenflO]

Hello!
I was reading in this review: http://www.sonicstudios.com/r-09revw.htm that the new firmware supports SD cards up to 32 gig.... can anyone verify this? Or how reliable they are?

[guysonic]

Hello!
I was reading in this review: http://www.sonicstudios.com/r-09revw.htm that the new firmware supports SD cards up to 32 gig.... can anyone verify this? Or how reliable they are?

I've heard mostly 32gig still not in (full) production, and while maybe a 1 or two companies making 16gig SDHC might be had at a premium price, know of no place to buy (anyone?) or user reports.

[vanark]

The FAQ may need an update?  I contacted Roland today about the unity gain setting and was told it is 13.  Here is a link to the thread.

http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,91851.0.html

[billymisfits]

i am also having trouble trying to get rid of the record light.  im using 1.30 firmware.  i went to the display setup menu and chose "power save" in the Rec/Peak LED option.  this seems to do absolutely nothing. am i missing something? any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks.

[lbgspam]

hey just a question

i have a the new firmware [1.30] and still can't turn my big shining RED light off... what am I doing wrong...?
thanks guys... please PM me in stead...

thanks 

bhakti

i am also having trouble trying to get rid of the record light.  im using 1.30 firmware.  i went to the display setup menu and chose "power save" in the Rec/Peak LED option.  this seems to do absolutely nothing. am i missing something? any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks.

Not to be too uptight, but please delete your posts from the FAQ.

As mentioned in the First Post, this thread is really just for additions/subtractions/edits to the FAQ and not general user questions.

Thanks so much!

[su6oxone]

i am also having trouble trying to get rid of the record light.  im using 1.30 firmware.  i went to the display setup menu and chose "power save" in the Rec/Peak LED option.  this seems to do absolutely nothing. am i missing something? any help would be greatly appreciated. thanks.

The power save option just means that the LED light will turn off when the screen goes into powersave.  Unfortunately, doesn't seem to be any way to have the LED light off but the screen/backlight turned on at the same time.

[Seph-eS]

Edirol just released the new 1.31 firmware update that adds support for 16 a 32 Gb cards!   

http://www.rolandus.com/support/downloads_updates/eula.aspx?DownloadId=1817

[rhinowing]

I have the dreaded line/mic in issue. Is there a dedicated thread for it?

[gmm6797]

just send it back to Edirol, they should fix it for free since it is a know issue

[rhinowing]

I bought it on ebay (new, but from a dealer). Would that be an issue?

edit-OK. I went to the edirol website and tried to submit a support request ticket, but the R-09 is not a product you can register on their website, and therefore you can't submit a support ticket for it. Is there some other way of contacting their support?

[gmm6797]

just call them, and mention you bought it from said dealer (not ebay) but they will want to see a copy of the sales receipt... or it was a birthday present and you have no receipt

[rhinowing]

birthday present, but from my parents, so hopefully there's a receipt.

[digifish_music]

Is it time to augment the R09 with an R09HR section?

digifish

[dactylus]

Is it time to augment the R09 with an R09HR section?

digifish

Yes, it is time to augment the R09 with an R09HR section.

 

[mike1061]

What is a R09HR?
Thanks Mike

[gmm6797]

the upgraded R09 from Edirol, came out about 2 months ago

[mike1061]

Thanks
Mike

[mrmojorisen]

Got the r09 hr trying to do the first firmware update and its not happening any idea what i may be doing wrong ?

Followed instructions over and over and not having any joy ?

[mike1061]

If you want help, IMO you should post some comments about what you did, and what went wrong. Including what the error message was. Give as much info as possable.
Thanks Mike

[gmm6797]

Grab the directions from Edirl's site, they are straight forward and correct

[mrmojorisen]

Grab the directions from Edirl's site, they are straight forward and correct

Yer followed the instuctions word for word and not had any joy.

I have tried putting the single DMZ15.UPD file onto it and also the file & folder.
The DMZ15.UPD file is showing up on the card and in the root folder when plugged into pc but not in the R-09 root folder when uplugged from pc.

[guysonic]

THE QUESTION IS: Even though the file is not showing on the deck, does it still grab the .upd file and upgrade?

Personally have NOT tried to view the file with the deck itself, so cannot say this is normal, I have had a deck in here that took 3-4 turn-on upgrade tries finally finding the file and do the right thing.

[mrmojorisen]

No not upgrading at all.

Followed all instructions holding down Rec button then switching the unit back on and thats when i get the message "no update file".
I screen does seem to flash like its trying to do something but to no avail.
Now in the readme its says that can happen and that it not a fault and you should quote "return to the previous procedure, and check the SD memory card and update data.".

Now i have done this at least 20 times a mate has also had a go and still nothing doing which seems very strange, Thinking of getting intouch with edirol/roland tommorow..

[Gutbucket]

Are you holding the REC button down when you turn the R-09 on?  I also always use the little 64M card that came with the recorder for firmware updates.

Edirol firmware install guide PDF

[gmm6797]

When I have done the upgrades (on the R1, R09 or R09hr), I always copy the upgrade files and firmware to a SD card, then put the card in the recorder, then follow the instructions.

I have never had the need/want to connect any of the R* devices to a PC directly, I just pull the memory card and put it into a card reader and go from there.

May be you can try that

[Gutbucket]

Possibility a corrupt file or card problem, try downloading a new copy of the firmware from the Edirol site and use a different SD card.  If still no, try installing a previous firmware update & contact Edirol.

[mrmojorisen]

We now have lift off guys tried it a 3 times today no joy then on the 4th attempt it has finally upgraded.

Thanks for all your assistance in getting this problem sorted.

[pwig]

I just updated my r-09 to firmware 1.31. In the recorder setup - do I want the file split on or off? I have the file size set to 2 gig.

Thanks!

[Gutbucket]

File split on/off concerns not the auto-spit function (based on filesize), but controls the ability to create a manual split by pressing the repeat button.  If 'on', the ability is locked out like everything else with the hold button. Choice is yours, I like it.

[pwig]

File split on/off concerns not the auto-spit function (based on filesize), but controls the ability to create a manual split by pressing the repeat button.  If 'on', the ability is locked out like everything else with the hold button. Choice is yours, I like it.

When would you use this feature?

[LEDZEPZOSO]

File split on/off concerns not the auto-spit function (based on filesize), but controls the ability to create a manual split by pressing the repeat button.  If 'on', the ability is locked out like everything else with the hold button. Choice is yours, I like it.

When would you use this feature?

A Person on dime records his shows this way.

[pwig]

File split on/off concerns not the auto-spit function (based on filesize), but controls the ability to create a manual split by pressing the repeat button.  If 'on', the ability is locked out like everything else with the hold button. Choice is yours, I like it.

When would you use this feature?

A Person on dime records his shows this way.

In between songs or to avoid missing a snippet of a song in case you get close to the 2 gig limit?

[Gutbucket]

I don't track between songs, too much hassle and inaccuracy. Some typical scenarios I use it for-
Start recording before the performers enter... wait... wait... 20 minutes later the lights dim [hit file split]
End of set 1.. applause dies [hit file split] roll during intermission so as not to miss the start of set 2, just before set 2 starts [hit file split] or not.  No missed intros, delete the intermission later.. or not.

IME, file split serves 3 purposes- 1) Easy way to eliminate the chaff 2) Easy way to manage where the file size based autosplit happens (not the end of the world if it splits mid-set since it's seamless but it would be nice to have each set as a single file. 3) Starts a new file which means the last one is somewhat safer with an intact file header if something happens like the batteries failing.

[pwig]

I don't track between songs, too much hassle and inaccuracy. Some typical scenarios I use it for-
Start recording before the performers enter... wait... wait... 20 minutes later the lights dim [hit file split]
End of set 1.. applause dies [hit file split] roll during intermission so as not to miss the start of set 2, just before set 2 starts [hit file split] or not.  No missed intros, delete the intermission later.. or not.

IME, file split serves 3 purposes- 1) Easy way to eliminate the chaff 2) Easy way to manage where the file size based autosplit happens (not the end of the world if it splits mid-set since it's seamless but it would be nice to have each set as a single file. 3) Starts a new file which means the last one is somewhat safer with an intact file header if something happens like the batteries failing.

I like what you described. So, set it to off to be able to make this happen?

[Gutbucket]

On.

[LEDZEPZOSO]

In between songs or to avoid missing a snippet of a song in case you get close to the 2 gig limit?

He used the track split for between songs.

[lbgspam]

Guys, glad you like all this info, but it would be helpful to me in maintaining this if you kept questions about use of the R09 OUT of the FAQ. Please delete your messages that are not relevant.

Thanks!

[digifish_music]

Need answer to question 19 -- Please help! Thanks! 

I wrote up this comparison of the Edirol R09, R09HR & R44.

www.digifishmusic.com/public/articles/edirol_recorder_mics.htm

Summary, R09 marginal (due to self noise), R09HR much better, R44 forget it.

R09 and R09 HR are both OK for live band-level sound but limited due to the mic spacing (narrow).

digifish