Taperssection.com

Gear / Technical Help => Recording Gear => Topic started by: BayTaynt3d on September 27, 2007, 11:01:55 PM

Title: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: BayTaynt3d on September 27, 2007, 11:01:55 PM

Alright, maybe I've been had or something, or maybe you all already know about this, but check this out...

I opened my RSS feed reader today and in one of my folders with tech-related feeds, a post about the new PMD620 was there (in the reader). But when I clicked through I got a 404 not found. So I was like WTF? Then, of course, do the obligatory search on google, and sure enough there's only this (former) reference.

I think they leaked it by accident or something. Sounds like a Marantz rep was there giving a demo, but I'm wondering why the specs and the photo aren't there any more?

Any of you heard about this yet? If not, TS is all up in the scoop and sh*t, LMAO...

Cause I still had the goods in my cache, heh... You can thank me later...  :P

Here's what it said:

Quote
Today at the Podcast Academy, Ontario Ca., Marantz Professional introduced
the brand new PMD620 Solid State Portable Recorder. This is the newest edition
to their acclaimed line of professional recording devices. The PMD 620 sports
a pocket size form factor, easy to use menu interface buttons, internal mics,
and a convenient built in speaker. It is designed to be used in may markets,
including podcasting and broadcasting.

pmd620.jpg

The top of the PMD620 houses a pair of high quality omnidirectional condenser
mics for convenient recording. This device also provides an 1/8″ input
for external plugin mono or stereo microphones, with +5v phantom power for
electret condensers. The PMD620 can record 16 or 24bit resolution audio [mono
or stereo] direct to SD flash memory in the WAV or MP3 file formats. The
display screen uses state of the art OLED technology resulting in sharp,
bright references with low power consumption.

The PMD620 uses 2 x AA Alkaline or NiMH batteries for up to 5 hours of operation.

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: danlynch on September 27, 2007, 11:31:01 PM
I'm not sure what this little box has over the MT.  Only 1/8" input? 
Frankly, I was hoping for something with the positive attributes of the 660, with the size
of the MT.  But this doesn't seem to be that unit.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: KLowe on September 28, 2007, 12:17:15 AM
nice work.

any major advantages over the R-09?

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: BayTaynt3d on September 28, 2007, 12:32:47 AM
Maybe a line in jack that doesn't break?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: wklitz on September 28, 2007, 12:46:41 AM
screw that thing, I'll do the Pepsi challenge with my Korg MR-1 any day over a Marantz product.  I've owned Marantz analog decks, DAT decks and CDR stand alone's.  Never had such a headache in my life. 
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Jamos on September 28, 2007, 01:01:57 AM
That thing is eerily similar to the R-09...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Kush on September 28, 2007, 11:20:32 AM
Where is the digital in/out on this thing? I guess they forgot about that nice feature.  ::) Maybe we will have to wait for the PMD631 for a digital in/out on the recorder.

Thanks for posting the news though, nice work.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: flintstone on September 28, 2007, 09:49:50 PM
Of course, Marantz already markets a recorder with digital in/out:  The PMD671.  I doubt any of the less expensive Marantz recorders will have this feature because it would take sales away from the 671.

Fostex follows a similar course.  The $1200 FR-2 has digital in/out, while the $600 FR-2LE does not.

Looks like the bit-bucket options below $400 remain:
M-Audio Microtrack
Hi-MD and standard minidisc
iRiver h120/140
Creative JB3

Flintstone
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Mr.Fantasy on October 01, 2007, 10:42:33 AM
And the R-09 in my book....
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: willndmb on October 01, 2007, 01:23:51 PM
And the R-09 in my book....
i think he means with digi in
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: NOLAfishwater on October 01, 2007, 04:44:10 PM
Here is an article about it that just came out today

http://news.harmony-central.com/Newp/2007/Marantz-Professional-PMD620.html (http://news.harmony-central.com/Newp/2007/Marantz-Professional-PMD620.html)

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: JD on October 01, 2007, 06:34:05 PM
Interesting.....

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u58/jaledu/000019041.jpg)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: OOK on October 01, 2007, 07:10:00 PM
Interesting.....

(http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u58/jaledu/000019041.jpg)

I don't like the metering...Two dots on for level one for over, that sucks.  But the card issue  in terms of size is huge!    Put R9 metering on the screen and I would likely get one.... I wish it had a digi in too.  This market looks like its heating up...Looks like I am still waiting this market out.   8)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: JD on October 01, 2007, 07:12:17 PM
I don't like the metering...Two dots on for level one for over, that sucks.  But the card issue  in terms of size is huge!    Put R9 metering on the screen and I would likely get one.... I wish it had a digi in too.  This market looks like its heating up...Looks like I am still waiting this market out.   8)

I saw another picture somewhere with the meters shown, they looked very similar to the ones on the RO9.

I'll see if I can find it. No dice, Maybe I'm thinking of something else.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: WiFiJeff on October 01, 2007, 09:42:59 PM
Here is an article about it that just came out today

http://news.harmony-central.com/Newp/2007/Marantz-Professional-PMD620.html (http://news.harmony-central.com/Newp/2007/Marantz-Professional-PMD620.html)



"The PMD620 offers direct to MP3 recording in three quality levels, as well as fully uncompressed, CD-quality 44.1/48 kHz .wav format in 16 or 24-bit resolution"

So it's a recycled R-01, or what?

Jeff
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on October 02, 2007, 09:12:07 AM
here another article ;)
http://familyoralhistory.us/news/view/marantz_introduces_new_portable_digital_recorder_pmd_620/

http://news.harmony-central.com/Newp/2007/Marantz-Professional-PMD620.html
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: heyitsmejess on October 02, 2007, 10:09:07 AM
Quote
One more word about the storage capacity. Over the last year or two, industry-wide specification for higher-capacity SD flash memory has been agreed on, and now memory cards with 4 and 8 GB capacity are being released. The PMD620 will accept both SD memory cards and the SDHC Secure Digital High Capacity cards. Marantz has planned for future growth— the recorder itself is built to be able to write to memory cards of up to 2 Terabytes—2048 GB.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Javier Cinakowski on October 15, 2007, 08:00:25 PM
Quote
Marantz has planned for future growth— the recorder itself is built to be able to write to memory cards of up to 2 Terabytes—2048 GB.

 :o

If memory cards and lossless codecs improve, you could put the entire GD and Phish catalog on this thing.
This is exactly what I want.   A nice handheld recorder that I can throw the entire GD memory card in, and record from some AT853's...
Things are going to get exciting for this hobby I hope...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: NOLAfishwater on October 15, 2007, 09:18:02 PM
You can preorder and get a free docking station with it. $399

More information: http://martelelectronics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=PMD620&Category_Code=&gclid=CJvDuMCeko8CFSgZagodvm65fA (http://martelelectronics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=PMD620&Category_Code=&gclid=CJvDuMCeko8CFSgZagodvm65fA)

(http://www.martelelectronics.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/620-360-1.gif)

Things to consider:

PMD660 advantages.
XLR inputs with 48v phantom.
Virtual track mode.
Mark edit capabilities.
Better internal speaker.
Uses Compact Flash.
Larger sizes than SD available.
Front panel LED metering.
Individual channel volume control.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on October 16, 2007, 04:14:06 AM
here another article ;)
http://familyoralhistory.us/news/view/marantz_introduces_new_portable_digital_recorder_pmd_620/

This link has a good in-hand-photo showing the size...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: flintstone on October 16, 2007, 10:11:31 AM
In the "in-hand" photo, the cable sticking out of the left side of the PMD620 is from mains power.  The 1/8" input for mics and the 1/8" output for headphones are on the top of the recorder.

Flintstone
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: BayTaynt3d on October 16, 2007, 10:11:48 AM
Where are the meters on this thing?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Keyser Soze on October 17, 2007, 05:06:58 PM
I'm sure sometime soon the reviews are going to start rolling in on this little unit.  Lets see if it turns out being a winner.

Then hopefully someone will open it up and hack the hell out of it (if needed).  >:D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on November 18, 2007, 12:12:50 PM
UPDATE:  Martel says they have them in stock and shipping.  http://martelelectronics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=PMD620&Category_Code=&gclid=CLnM18XW5o8CFRk0awodBQOlDA (http://martelelectronics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=PMD620&Category_Code=&gclid=CLnM18XW5o8CFRk0awodBQOlDA)

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on November 20, 2007, 12:40:32 AM
OK, I couldn't resist.  Call it an early X-mas present to myself!  Martel promises delivery this week...

I won't have a real-world recording opportunity for a couple of weeks.  If anyone can suggest some tests to run, I'd be happy to give it a whirl when it shows up!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on November 20, 2007, 10:37:22 AM
I'm sure sometime soon the reviews are going to start rolling in on this little unit.  Lets see if it turns out being a winner.

Then hopefully someone will open it up and hack the hell out of it (if needed).  >:D
Did you look at the audio specs? If they're not on the conservative side we need hacks.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: suini on November 22, 2007, 12:29:32 PM
manual is up:

http://www.d-mpro.eu.com/index2.php?CID=3&Pid=139&action=detail&lang=eng
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: suini on November 22, 2007, 12:47:44 PM
 >:( no loop playback  either repeat?
...or when only one file is loaded from the file list is playing looped...?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: seabrook on November 23, 2007, 01:36:23 PM
Unlike the Endirol R-09 you can't view record time remaining and record levels on one screen.  Also no lights out operation after a timeout period while recording.  But perhaps the pre-amps and/or internal mics are better, etc....?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on November 23, 2007, 02:10:29 PM
Unlike the Endirol R-09 you can't view record time remaining and record levels on one screen.  Also no lights out operation after a timeout period while recording. 
Those could be fixed with a software update?

Quote
But perhaps the pre-amps and/or internal mics are better, etc....?
Did you check the specsheet?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: spyder9 on November 23, 2007, 03:25:11 PM
Unlike the Endirol R-09 you can't view record time remaining and record levels on one screen.  Also no lights out operation after a timeout period while recording.  But perhaps the pre-amps and/or internal mics are better, etc....?

I saw that too.  Looks like you have to press some buttons to see record levels, and even that displays for only 2 seconds.  That's need to set the level indicator as the default screen when recording.  I could care less on how much time is left on the card, cause I already know that.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on November 23, 2007, 06:27:30 PM
You can switch from levels to time remaining to time elapsed by pressing the display button...

General first impression:  definitely a bit sturdier in construction than the Zoom H2 or Edirol R-09.  Switches in particular have a more solid feel.  Use is very intuitive (like the other two) and the one-touch recording is nice.  There is a feature for automatic level adjustment, but I haven't had time to check it out yet.  Smaller than either the H2 or R-09.  The power switch is automatically disabled during recording and the key lock can disable all buttons during any operation.  The internal speaker is (predictably) tinny, but might come in handy from time to time.  LEDs can be turned off, and the screen has brightness from 1 - 10...1 is pretty dim, and probably not noticeable from a foot or two...

There is an addendum to the manual that lists somewhat different specs. than the manual (see link to manual in earlier post)...

I will post a pic. next to the H2 later on if I can find a free moment.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: seabrook on November 23, 2007, 07:35:21 PM
The reviews start to pour in!  Here's another from another forum:

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/naturerecordists/message/30684
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Ozpeter on November 23, 2007, 08:59:11 PM
Interesting that it goes beyond 2Gb continuous recording size.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on November 24, 2007, 01:35:33 AM
OK, as promised, here are some side by side photos with the Zoom H2.  I apologize for the crappy photos; I had to borrow a camera and do it quickly.  Also had to compress the images to post them.  But they give a pretty good idea of the size.  The PMD620 is a bit shorter (height) and narrower (depth) but quite similar in terms of width.

Also, I confirmed that the maximum file size exceeds 2 GB.  I just ran it until the file hit 2.25 GB and then stopped it.  Seems to have recorded until then...

As I am traveling (I came State-side for Thanksgiving), I have been unable to really test the sound quality as of yet, but the internals seem comparable to the Zoom or R-09...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on November 24, 2007, 07:00:34 AM
Please post info about signal levels for 0dBFS for mic and line in at maximum and minimum gain.

BTW: Noise versus frequency graphs are also interesting! (Inputs loaded with 1000 ohms 1% metal film resistor)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on November 24, 2007, 08:07:48 AM
I'm sure sometime soon the reviews are going to start rolling in on this little unit.  Lets see if it turns out being a winner.

Then hopefully someone will open it up and hack the hell out of it (if needed).  >:D
Did you look at the audio specs? If they're not on the conservative side we need hacks.

620's very small size and 'looks to be sturdy' build should make it a carry-it-everywhere favorite in any case.

My loaner is arriving next week for doing a tech review. Got a good feeling about this model for no known reason.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: BayTaynt3d on November 24, 2007, 11:47:13 AM
The reviews start to pour in!  Here's another from another forum:

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/naturerecordists/message/30684

In that review, he says...

Quote
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!

That sucks if true, someone should test that ASAP.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on November 24, 2007, 05:42:09 PM
The reviews start to pour in!  Here's another from another forum:

http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/naturerecordists/message/30684

In that review, he says...

Quote
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!

That sucks if true, someone should test that ASAP.

On mine, the click is quite noticeable with the internals.  With an external, I can't hear it at all...And that is with very little background noise (quiet room). 
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: seabrook on November 24, 2007, 08:35:56 PM
I wonder if the internals are simply hearing the mechanical gain switch clicks?  Or is it electrically induced?  Significance: for a loud show mechanical clicks would be masked by the music.  However internal electrical clicks would probably always be heard.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on November 28, 2007, 02:06:03 PM
I wonder if the internals are simply hearing the mechanical gain switch clicks?  Or is it electrically induced?  Significance: for a loud show mechanical clicks would be masked by the music.  However internal electrical clicks would probably always be heard.

Definitely mechanical...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on December 01, 2007, 03:03:45 AM
My loaner is arriving next week for doing a tech review. Got a good feeling about this model for no known reason.
Any updates?
A detailed review could help us very much!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: flintstone on December 01, 2007, 10:13:42 AM
Tucked inside a discussion of the Zoom H2 on the Transom.org forum are comments about the PMD620 by Jeff Towne, Transom's resident gear reviewer.  Here are excerpts taken from Jeff's comments

...When using external mics, the noise level and overall sound quality is SIGNIFICANTLY better than any of the other small flash recorders I've tested...

...the Marantz 620 sounds very good with external mics of any kind, even dynamic omnis, much cleaner than a stock 660, or either of the Zooms...

...larger recorders, specifically the Sound Devices 722 and the Tascam HDP2, still sound better than the 620, but those are much bulkier, and more expensive...

...there's a latency in the headphone monitoring. That is to say, while recording live sound, there's a slight delay in the headphones....

...the ergonomics of using the device are mostly very good...

...there are some issues that make it irritating to use...

The comment in full is found here:
http://talk.transom.org/WebX?50@340.AiPmaCmCbYM.1@.eeb7816

Jeff's full review is promised soon.

Flintstone
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on December 01, 2007, 11:13:19 AM
My loaner is arriving next week for doing a tech review. Got a good feeling about this model for no known reason.
Any updates?
A detailed review could help us very much!

I have received a loaner PMD-620 two days ago, started some testing, and written a start of the review that's not yet ready for first view.

This review wil eventually be posted at: www.sonicstudos.com/pmd620rv.htm (http://www.sonicstudos.com/pmd620rv.htm)

Here is a preview of starting general text and some bench tests.

Introduction:

The PMD-620 model is MARANTZ's latest digital portable recording deck model. The PMD-620 is unique for a Marantz portable for being quite small, stylish, moderate priced, and easy to operate only after some practice with extensive preset menus having two different non-intuitive select buttons.

MOST Unique to portables is having three identical preset menus each with two dozen setup categories to customize. In opposition to a Sony MD deck forgetting settings when turned off, the PMD-620 remembers everything! These presets are both deck stored, and on the flash card! Presettings are flash-card transferable to ANY OTHER PMD-620 using the PRESET SAVE/LOAD menu functions. This unique feature is most welcome to media departments dispensing many identical field recorders to casual recordists needing to successfully operate the recorder with little or no prior experience.

PMD-620 features include 4x2.4x1" shirt-pocket-size, 2 AA disposable alkaline/NiMH rechargeable battery giving ~ 5 hours portable power, 2 sec fast boot-up, near instant shutdown. Also small size, but easy to read OLED display similar to Roland R-09. Some low-noise, and some audible tactile 'transport' and control buttons are mostly recessed type so less chance of actuation while pocketed, but I found somewhat hard to find without looking. Record/pause/stop deck response is very quick.

Shipped with firmware A1.00 installed, there are no firmware updates as yet, or seem needed as PMD-620 tests out to be fully functional for up to 192 MP3, and 24 bit, 44.1/48K wav resolution recordings. Preset Menu on/off controlled 4.4 volt MIC powering works for most electrets using direct connected 'plug-in-powering' input feature.

PMD-620 LINE input connects directly to more featured, higher performance external MIC preamps with up to +16 dBu (= +13.8 dBV = 4.89 Vrms) maximum output.

User MENU process is fast responding wrapping type, but a bit UN-intuitive to understand at first.

The three identical Preset lists seem way too tedious with 24 categories to make operating choices, at least at first. And learning the appropriate choice of two push-for-select function buttons is at first confusing. Preset selection process needs practice, and seems quickest with TWO HANDED THUMB operation.

------end of text preview-----

Recording level working adjustment range is limited to -25 dB to 0 dB with all MIC input modes, and -21 dB to 0 dB in LINE input mode.  Going to <-25 dB MIC, and <-21 in LINE modes to reduce VU levels may result in deck input clipping distortion.

Below are some of the test graphs and model views:


(http://www.sonicstudios.com/620-0log.gif)

(http://www.sonicstudios.com/620-0lin.gif)

(http://www.sonicstudios.com/620-25lin.gif)

(http://www.sonicstudios.com/620-25log.gif)

(http://www.sonicstudios.com/micvs3sx(log).gif)

(http://www.sonicstudios.com/micvs3sx(lin).gif)

Let me say the above graphs at least show me, as compared to other flash decks tested/reviewed, the PMD-620 is a VERY GOOD adequately low noise deck for its size and cost.  More testing to verify frequency response and other matters to appear in the full review. 

NOTE: There is NO usual H/M/L switch setting for changing the MIC/LINE input sensitivity, instead these functions are INSIDE the presetting menu as ATTENUATION SETTINGS (highest sensitivity mic input gain) 0dB, (M) -12dB, and (lowest sensitivity input gain) -24db selections.   And yes, this is a bit confusing at first.

(http://www.sonicstudios.com/pmd620fs.jpg)

(http://www.sonicstudios.com/pmd620lv.jpg)





 
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: suini on December 01, 2007, 11:22:31 AM
is there a repeat function??

cheers
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on December 01, 2007, 11:34:48 AM
is there a repeat function??

cheers

I think to have read of several choices for repeat function with dedicated front panel button fully described  in the owners manual .pdf found linked on this page: http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&CatID=19&SubCatID=188 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&CatID=19&SubCatID=188)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on December 01, 2007, 12:51:36 PM
My loaner is arriving next week for doing a tech review. Got a good feeling about this model for no known reason.
Any updates?
A detailed review could help us very much!
(http://www.sonicstudios.com/620-0log.gif)

(http://www.sonicstudios.com/620-0lin.gif)

Let me say the above graphs at least show me, as compared to other flash decks tested/reviewed, the PMD-620 is a VERY GOOD adequately low noise deck for its size and cost.  More testing to verify frequency response and other matters to appear in the full review. 
Thanks very much!
This info gives already very good insights.
Noise appears comparable (almost) to R09 performance.
The biggest difference are the PMD-620 peaks in the noise graphs.
For me they spoil the fun a bit; in practice you might not hear them?
(could they be fixed somehow?)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: suini on December 01, 2007, 01:58:23 PM
[quote guysonic=guysonic]I think to have read of several choices for repeat function with dedicated front panel button fully described  in the owners manual[/quote]

..its a skip button so no repeat? ??? ??? :o
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on December 01, 2007, 03:44:29 PM
[quote guysonic=guysonic]I think to have read of several choices for repeat function with dedicated front panel button fully described  in the owners manual

..its a skip button so no repeat? ??? ??? :o
[/quote]

You're right, NO repeat!  On re-reading there is a skip back (time is menu selectable to up to 60 seconds).  There IS a COPY section function that makes a new file of a selected portion of an existing recording without changing the original, and this is what I was thinking was a repeat, but not good for auto repeat, only manual repeat of the copied portion.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Ozpeter on December 01, 2007, 06:07:34 PM
Quote
MOST Unique to portables is having three identical preset menus each with two dozen setup categories to customize. In opposition to a Sony MD deck forgetting settings when turned off, the PMD-620 remembers everything!
The HHB PortaMic has similar multiple preset saving features, I believe.  I get the feeling that this Marantz is targetted at the same kind of market and maybe that's where that feature comes from... 

Market positioning is also indicated by lack of 24/96 (though useless IMHO) and lack of higher mp3 bitrates.

You are correct about the Sony MD decks forgetting some settings when turned off but more recent Hi-MD models such as the RH-1 do not suffer from that problem.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: mfoley on December 02, 2007, 07:04:46 AM
One thing that impresses myself is the build construction...at least from the appearance from the outside.  As one who has spent the last thirty years in the aviation industry (and its attention to engineering accuracy), this thing looks well built.  I was so disappointed when I opened my H2 box...and discovered a unit that look cheap/poorly built...whereas the 620 looks like a professional piece of gear....
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Ozpeter on December 02, 2007, 07:48:34 AM
The H2 looks much more robust when painted black!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: danzz1234 on December 02, 2007, 11:24:35 AM
So... for the noobs that dont understand all those graphs  :-X .... is this any better than the R09?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on December 02, 2007, 01:05:57 PM
The H2 looks much more robust when painted black!

You may be on to a good thing here.  Have you done this?!?  :o  I'm also thinking somebody good at masking/spraying might easily try this and post a few views  :smoking2: 

Side panels would need new white-on-black durable laminated function labels as now silver background black lettering would disappear. Any BROTHER PC-connected similar label printer should make short work of this.

 :angel: I could offer the label program file like done for the MT1 VU dB, or just mail a few already printed by SASE requests.

:coolguy: KRYLON BRAND has very good spray product for indoor/outdoor plastic called FUSION FOR PLASTIC.  I've used on my mic WHB/N windscreen headband accessory.  No spraying the deck's windscreen I think to preserve internal mic reception. This might be dappled instead with flat or satin finish?

My favorite was the 'black textured' for looking very cool with a great non-slip grip, but got one back from 3 years intense all-day soundwalks for service with paint melting from hair oils !!!   :sick: 
So I stopped using this for sometime, but think not much an issue for painting small handheld deck?

So... for the noobs that dont understand all those graphs  :-X .... is this any better than the R09?

While the 620 seems similar to R09, and for me harder to learn than R09, direct comparison of noise spectrum performance might need new graphic to clearly see details.   And as with most decks being nearly equal, the better noise performance is sometimes variable between the decks depending on recording input mode being used.  With LINE input mode using external preamp, these two look nearly identical. 

And then there's the build quality, with Marantz 620 being made in Japan, and not China like most these days.


Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: mfoley on December 02, 2007, 01:24:12 PM
being built in Japan should be the deal breaker for anyone...as just about everything coming out of China is pure crap....
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: BayTaynt3d on December 02, 2007, 01:32:48 PM
being built in Japan should be the deal breaker for anyone...as just about everything coming out of China is pure crap....

If that were completely true, then we pretty much wouldn't have any electronics or computers as I'm nearly 100% sure the computer you wrote that comment on wouldn't exist without China. But vague generalities aside, I understand what you're saying...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: JD on December 02, 2007, 01:37:30 PM
being built in Japan should be the deal breaker for anyone...as just about everything coming out of China is pure crap....

Just looked at my R09, "Made in Japan"
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: bgalizio on December 02, 2007, 01:38:17 PM
Thanks for the line-in noise graphs! I'd love to hear an A/D comp between this and the R-09, if anyone has both...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: mfoley on December 02, 2007, 01:48:58 PM
being built in Japan should be the deal breaker for anyone...as just about everything coming out of China is pure crap....

If that were completely true, then we pretty much wouldn't have any electronics or computers as I'm nearly 100% sure the computer you wrote that comment on wouldn't exist without China. But vague generalities aside, I understand what you're saying...

My original statement still stands....China is unloading crap on us...and were gullible enough to buy it as all we want cheap prices...  ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: BayTaynt3d on December 02, 2007, 01:52:32 PM
being built in Japan should be the deal breaker for anyone...as just about everything coming out of China is pure crap....

If that were completely true, then we pretty much wouldn't have any electronics or computers as I'm nearly 100% sure the computer you wrote that comment on wouldn't exist without China. But vague generalities aside, I understand what you're saying...

My original statement still stands....China is unloading crap on us...and were gullible enough to buy it as all we want cheap prices...  ;D

And my point still stands, which is that pretty much every single piece of electronics you own China has touched at some point. Bash 'em all you want, but keep that in mind as you do...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 02, 2007, 03:53:46 PM
Questions of national origin aside, the PMD620 DOES feel substantially more solid than the H2 or R09.  And the buttons and switches are much nicer...

But it would be interesting to see some side-by-side performance comparisons, like bgalizio requested!  I guess you can assume it is pretty similar (performance-wise) to the R09, given that Marantz has priced and positioned the 620 to be a direct competitor, but you never know...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Ozpeter on December 02, 2007, 04:48:18 PM
(I'll start a new topic re black H2 soon - too OT here).
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on December 02, 2007, 10:00:56 PM
Questions of national origin aside, the PMD620 DOES feel substantially more solid than the H2 or R09.  And the buttons and switches are much nicer...

But it would be interesting to see some side-by-side performance comparisons, like bgalizio requested!  I guess you can assume it is pretty similar (performance-wise) to the R09, given that Marantz has priced and positioned the 620 to be a direct competitor, but you never know...

The 620 does give a feeling of better build, and the metal front face certainly helps convey this impression. 

However, even though sporting 'made in Japan' moniker, these days many inside components/sub-assemblies often have origins elsewhere than country of manufacture.

It does seem that Japan has consistently better manufacturing Quality Control procedures in place.  This gives better chance of products having more 'refined' design implementation (fewer bugs, better as-manufactured performance quality), and thorough manufacturing QC testing before being shipped. 

I'm reminded of how the Microtrack (made in China) was shipped with untested firmware with obvious flaws like having the L/M/H switch functions reversed, and some other issues needing many firmware upgrades installed by the customer to finally get right. 

And then there's Roland's 'made in Japan' R-09 shipped with those infamous 'break-away-input-jacks', but otherwise typical of a well designed and tested product needing very minimal firmware refinement.

Of course, as usual with making generalizations, there's always exceptions, so not 'set in cement' as always true in every case.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on December 03, 2007, 01:50:10 PM
So, what's the best price on this? Can't find it lower that $399 on after some lazy googling..

Seen it around EUR350 here in Europe, I think.

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 03, 2007, 04:35:52 PM
So, what's the best price on this? Can't find it lower that $399 on after some lazy googling..

Seen it around EUR350 here in Europe, I think.

Roel

yes, around 350€ in europe.
http://www.thomann.de/gb/master_stereo_recorder.html
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 04, 2007, 09:43:49 AM
So, what's the best price on this? Can't find it lower that $399 on after some lazy googling..

Seen it around EUR350 here in Europe, I think.

Roel

yes, around 350€ in europe.
http://www.thomann.de/gb/master_stereo_recorder.html

Given the exchange rate right now, (buying one at $399 would cost about 270 euro) it might be best to order from the US and have it delivered to someone there and then re-ship it...I got mine while in the States and I was pretty surprised when I saw how many fewer euros disappeared from my account (compared to dollars)!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on December 04, 2007, 11:06:16 AM
So, what's the best price on this? Can't find it lower that $399 on after some lazy googling..

Seen it around EUR350 here in Europe, I think.

Roel

yes, around 350€ in europe.
http://www.thomann.de/gb/master_stereo_recorder.html

Given the exchange rate right now, (buying one at $399 would cost about 270 euro) it might be best to order from the US and have it delivered to someone there and then re-ship it...I got mine while in the States and I was pretty surprised when I saw how many fewer euros disappeared from my account (compared to dollars)!

This is exactly what I'm trying now, asking a board member here >:D It'll save me about 80 euro's.

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roger Gustavsson on December 05, 2007, 02:30:09 AM
But you have to add shipping, customs and VAT if you want it delivered to The Netherlands (from your profile)! EUR 357 from Thomann with shipping to The Netherlands. In the end you will save nothing...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on December 05, 2007, 03:37:41 AM
But you have to add shipping, customs and VAT if you want it delivered to The Netherlands (from your profile)! EUR 357 from Thomann with shipping to The Netherlands. In the end you will save nothing...

Yes, I know, trying to do something 'smarter' than that. But thanks for the heads-up.

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: danzz1234 on December 05, 2007, 10:28:52 AM
guysonic,

Do you think you'll try this "on the field" any soon?  ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on December 05, 2007, 10:21:50 PM
guysonic,

Do you think you'll try this "on the field" any soon?  ;D

This Friday there's an acoustical harp/violin performance in an extremely live room, this is where I've recorded before at White Horse Coffee Company; see Celtic 'MOLLYS REVENGE' session at www.sonicstudios.com/mp3_2slp.htm (http://www.sonicstudios.com/mp3_2slp.htm)

I can use as a testing session for internal mics, external mic input, and external preamp line input session. 

I'll post the results if happening as hoped. 

Only hitch is it's my wife's birthday, and she hates the place and likely will not attend, so I dunno if the loss of domestic 'piece-of-mind' is worth it.  May have to look for an opportunity bearing less personal risk.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 06, 2007, 02:16:59 AM
Only hitch is it's my wife's birthday, and she hates the place and likely will not attend, so I dunno if the loss of domestic 'piece-of-mind' is worth it.  May have to look for an opportunity bearing less personal risk.

Don't kill your marriage for our sake! ;)

But I too am curious for a field test.  I have been scouring the web for a show I find even moderately interesting and local, but it looks like it will be a few weeks...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 12, 2007, 06:53:42 AM
While killing the time waiting for an opportunity to test the PMD620 "in the field", I did some interesting experiments.

First, I checked all of the SD cards I could round up, in various sizes (256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB) from several manufacturer's (SanDisk, Lexar, and unknown).  Some of these are quite old.  All worked perfectly.

Next, I took the smallest of these SD cards, and recorded to the end to see what happens when a card gets full.  The PMD620 properly closed the file and it (the file) worked fine.

I also looked at maximum file size.  I recorded on the 4 GB card until the recorder stopped due to a full card.  The result:  a 3.78 GB file.  I spot checked this file, including around the 2 GB mark, and it is a continuous file with no problems.  It would be nice to check with an 8 or 16 GB SD, but, at least for the 4 GB, there is no effective file size limitation (this is just under 4 hours at 24/48).

I was also curious to see how the unit would respond to a power disruption.  Using a pair of older batteries, I recorded til they died.  The recorder gave a little note, and then cleanly shut down the file.  I also tried pulling a battery, and pulling the AC adapter cord, while it was recording; in both cases, turning the unit back on gave a "restore" message and the files were fine.  Lastly, when pulling the adapter with batteries inserted, the recorder shifted from socket to batteries with no troubles.

So, in short, some of the issues others have experienced with 2 GB maximum file sizes, seamless splits, or SD cards appear not to be problems with the PMD620.  In addition, it handles power problems well...

Now if I could just find a good show to go to...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: danzz1234 on December 15, 2007, 09:00:03 AM
well
nothing bad - or really bad - about this unity until now
let's see how it works on the field

thank you guys for testing this
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: bugg100 on December 15, 2007, 03:06:34 PM
The things I would be motivated to let go of cash for are #1- 24 bit with good line-in, and #2 - a decent mic input pre-amp.....

Build quality seems good here, how about the above.  Otherwise, I still love my h-140.....
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 17, 2007, 02:23:07 AM
I ordered mine yesterday from www.thomann.de an will report my experiences with the PDM 620 as soon as I tested it in the field...maybe Friday 21th at a concert with my DPA 4060+bbox on line-in, IF I receive it in time.

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: mfoley on December 17, 2007, 03:46:52 AM
Although my field test is probably unlike any of you regulars here...(I'm not a taper but a wedding/event videographer).  I handed the 620 to the pastor to wear to capture his vocals (used audio technica MT830 lav).  In addition to being the pastor at the church, he was also the music director...so he probably had some working knowledge of recording equipment.  He looked at the 620 and said out loud (reading the faceplate of the recorder), "Marantz Professional - good stuff".  In my business, perception is a huge part of what we do.   

He commented after the ceremony that it fit nicely in his pocket, "Unlike some of the other stuff I've been asked to use".   Audio capture was clean...low noise....

Sorry, not a scientific review with performance charts...but satisfied I purchased wisely for this recording process of my business...and in business you use what makes you money.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 17, 2007, 10:13:42 AM

User MENU process is fast responding wrapping type, but a bit UN-intuitive to understand at first.

The three identical Preset lists seem way too tedious with 24 categories to make operating choices, at least at first. And learning the appropriate choice of two push-for-select function buttons is at first confusing. Preset selection process needs practice, and seems quickest with TWO HANDED THUMB operation.


The presets might seem a touch difficult at first glance, but you get used to them really quickly.  It is sort of nice that you can make a couple of configurations and save them; then, at the show, you can just select the one that best matches your situation.  The reality is that many of the items in the list won't be needed often, so won't need to be changed often either.  After a little practice, I can blaze through the menu/options one-handed...

The things I would be motivated to let go of cash for are #1- 24 bit with good line-in, and #2 - a decent mic input pre-amp.....

Build quality seems good here, how about the above.  Otherwise, I still love my h-140.....

I am waiting on some good mics and a pre-amp (should be here any moment; I am wearing a path to the mailbox!), so I haven't tested the line-in yet, but I have looked at the mic-in with a cheap electret I already owned (really designed for voice recording) in a non-scientific way. I was looking to compare the Zoom H2 with the PMD620.  I recorded the same piece of music from my stereo, from the same spot, with both recorders, burned the samples to CD, and listened to them at a pretty loud volume.  The PMD620 sounded better to me, with less audible evidence of handling.  I think this is in line with expectations, as the Zoom mic-in has been previously reported to be noisy (see posts on the Zoom forum, http://www.2090.org/zoom/bbs/viewforum.php?f=15 (http://www.2090.org/zoom/bbs/viewforum.php?f=15)).  To my ears, the pre-amp sounds better than the Zoom.  But better mics may make a difference, so I will revisit the issue when the package arrives, as well as look at the line-in a bit...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: HarpDoc on December 21, 2007, 03:02:46 PM
Has anyone here had a chance to record a show with external mics (without separete preamp)? I'm curious about the unit's pre's and whether it can handle a loud show without needing a battery box or external pre (looking to travel light). Can anyone compair this to H120/140, the new Sony, or the R01?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 21, 2007, 04:18:03 PM
Has anyone here had a chance to record a show with external mics (without separete preamp)? I'm curious about the unit's pre's and whether it can handle a loud show without needing a battery box or external pre (looking to travel light). Can anyone compair this to H120/140, the new Sony, or the R01?

Thanks.
My 620 is still on its way from Germany to Austria...they sent it tuesday morning....its only 400km but xmas-shipping is always delayed....thus I had to quit tonights recording session with the 620+dpa 4061 on mic-in with plugin power at -24db sensitivity(1st set of the show) and 620+bbox on line-in with the dpa 4061 for the 2nd set of the show.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 21, 2007, 07:49:58 PM
My 620 is still on its way from Germany to Austria...they sent it tuesday morning....its only 400km but xmas-shipping is always delayed....thus I had to quit tonights recording session with the 620+dpa 4061 on mic-in with plugin power at -24db sensitivity(1st set of the show) and 620+bbox on line-in with the dpa 4061 for the 2nd set of the show.

And I am having the opposite problem...Holding my 620, but mics in shipping...Sigh!  Soon, though...
EDIT:  Actually, to clarify, I have tried a small, crappy stereo mic through the mic input.  Tried it using the battery in the mic and also with plug-in power, recording the exact same source.  Both worked well and sound good for what it was.  No audible difference between the two...But not exactly a good test...

Getting some good snow over there?  We are even getting a bit here in the lowlands...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 26, 2007, 08:32:59 AM
nice work.

any major advantages over the R-09?



That's the only thing I really want to know.
Any thoughts?  ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 26, 2007, 08:43:24 AM
nice work.

any major advantages over the R-09?



That's the only thing I really want to know.
Any thoughts?  ;D
-better internal preamps(less noise..comparable to the MZ-RH1 preamp according to the review)
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/naturerecordists/message/30684
http://www.transom.org/tools/recording_interviewing/200712_marantz_620/

-no SD-card size limit..no filesplit occurs at 2GB..so the size of the sd-card is the only limiting factor
-hopefully better-built inputs than the r09  ;D...only time will tell ;) can´t be worse though...
-5V plugin-power on mic-in instead of 2,5V(R09)

I´ll get mine tomorrow and run a test at a small club-concert in Vienna...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roving Sign on December 26, 2007, 08:57:37 AM
nice work.

any major advantages over the R-09?



That's the only thing I really want to know.
Any thoughts?  ;D
-better internal preamps(less noise..comparable to the MZ-RH1 preamp according to the review)
http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/naturerecordists/message/30684
http://www.transom.org/tools/recording_interviewing/200712_marantz_620/

-no SD-card size limit..no filesplit occurs at 2GB..so the size of the sd-card is the only limiting factor
-hopefully better-built inputs than the r09  ;D...only time will tell ;) can´t be worse though...
-5V plugin-power on mic-in instead of 2,5V(R09)

I´ll get mine tomorrow and run a test at a small club-concert in Vienna...

No clicks when adjusting levels...as long as the jacks dont break with normal use - it would seem this has the R9 beat hands down...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 26, 2007, 09:13:51 AM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roving Sign on December 26, 2007, 09:16:15 AM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D

On the R9 or Marantz?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 26, 2007, 09:17:41 AM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D
The manual says "LEDs off" is possible...I´ll tell you tomorrow.
Anyway..a black Gaffa-tape hides the red light.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 26, 2007, 09:17:55 AM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D

On the R9 or Marantz?

On the new Marantz. On the R-09 this problem has been solved long time ago.
Thanks for the fast reply ;)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roving Sign on December 26, 2007, 09:20:06 AM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D

On the R9 or Marantz?

On the new Marantz. On the R-09 this problem has been solved long time ago.
Thanks for the fast reply ;)

Probably a simple fix if it doesnt already do this...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 26, 2007, 09:21:54 AM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D
The manual says "LEDs off" is possible...I´ll tell you tomorrow.
Anyway..a black Gaffa-tape hides the red light.

How are you doing, my friend? Yes, the old black tape trick...
I understand the "leds off" controls the leds only (level and over).But maybe I'm wrong.
Thanks for your comments. I'll end up buying this one anyways. I just can't help myself. ;D

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 26, 2007, 09:28:06 AM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D
The manual says "LEDs off" is possible...I´ll tell you tomorrow.
Anyway..a black Gaffa-tape hides the red light.

How are you doing, my friend? Yes, the old black tape trick...
I understand the "leds off" controls the leds only (level and over).But maybe I'm wrong.
Thanks for your comments. I'll end up buying this one anyways. I just can't help myself. ;D


;D Don´t forget to sell your existing gear! ;)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 26, 2007, 09:36:10 AM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D
The manual says "LEDs off" is possible...I´ll tell you tomorrow.
Anyway..a black Gaffa-tape hides the red light.

How are you doing, my friend? Yes, the old black tape trick...
I understand the "leds off" controls the leds only (level and over).But maybe I'm wrong.
Thanks for your comments. I'll end up buying this one anyways. I just can't help myself. ;D


;D Don´t forget to sell your existing gear! ;)

 Speaking of which...Where is the brand new HLSC-1 pair? Gone already? ;D
But, no, I'll keep my trusty ;D ;D ;D R-09. I'm one of the lucky ones that never had a problem with the faulty inputs.
Mind you, I was considering buying a new R-09 as a back-up. But with the new Marantz, well...you know.
Let me know about your field test!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 26, 2007, 01:12:36 PM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D

There are four sources of light on the PMD620: 1. level LED, 2. over LED, 3. red ring around record button (the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light), and 4. the OLED screen.  The 'LED off' option in the pre-sets shuts off 1 - 3, but not 4.  The OLED has a separate brightness setting (1 - 10).  I have asked Marantz if they will do a firmware update to allow auto-off on the OLED, but haven't heard back yet...

EDIT:  But on '1', the OLED is pretty discrete, especially with the sort of blue-ish letters on black background...Not a problem for most people, I think.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roving Sign on December 26, 2007, 01:32:08 PM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D

EDIT:  But on '1', the OLED is pretty discrete, especially with the sort of blue-ish letters on black background...Not a problem for most people, I think.

Man - I would think in todays world of cellphones, PDAs ,etc...a recorder is about the LAST think anyone is going to assume...always seems to be no shortage of people fooling with their phones at shows - lights blinking etc...(depends on the setting obviously)

Todays stealther has it made!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 26, 2007, 01:36:27 PM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D

EDIT:  But on '1', the OLED is pretty discrete, especially with the sort of blue-ish letters on black background...Not a problem for most people, I think.
Yes LEDs 1/2/3(red REC-ring) OFF sounds great and I wouldn´t like the OLED(4) being totally dark/off neither.

Man - I would think in todays world of cellphones, PDAs ,etc...a recorder is about the LAST think anyone is going to assume...always seems to be no shortage of people fooling with their phones at shows - lights blinking etc...(depends on the setting obviously)

Todays stealther has it made!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 26, 2007, 02:04:27 PM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D

EDIT:  But on '1', the OLED is pretty discrete, especially with the sort of blue-ish letters on black background...Not a problem for most people, I think.

Man - I would think in todays world of cellphones, PDAs ,etc...a recorder is about the LAST think anyone is going to assume...always seems to be no shortage of people fooling with their phones at shows - lights blinking etc...(depends on the setting obviously)

Todays stealther has it made!

Hey, you're probably right. But being caught with an actual recorder is the LAST think I'd like to worry my mind with. One thing is being asked "what is that?" by a huge security guy when you have an ordinary cell phone in your hands. But a digital recorder with plugs, wires, battery box, all that hidden under your shirt, man, that's a whole different situation.
Take care and good luck
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 26, 2007, 02:11:55 PM
I don´t hold the recorder in my hands when stealthing BUT i alwyas am able to check levels with my technique of stealthing ;).

Usually you know your gear and the venue and set the correct levels in advance and during the 1st song I do a short check of the levels and then I enjoy the show.
After 21 years of successful stealthing (never got caught) that´s no problem for me.
Recently a security guy stood right in front of me during the whole show..maybe at 5 feet distance, he couldn´t see anything ;).



Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 26, 2007, 02:42:28 PM
Thanks.
But unless I'm not very well informed, there's no way to avoid the "hey-I'm-taping-here" red light. Am I right or wrong?
Thanks in advance ;D

EDIT:  But on '1', the OLED is pretty discrete, especially with the sort of blue-ish letters on black background...Not a problem for most people, I think.

Man - I would think in todays world of cellphones, PDAs ,etc...a recorder is about the LAST think anyone is going to assume...always seems to be no shortage of people fooling with their phones at shows - lights blinking etc...(depends on the setting obviously)

Todays stealther has it made!

Hey, you're probably right. But being caught with an actual recorder is the LAST think I'd like to worry my mind with. One thing is being asked "what is that?" by a huge security guy when you have an ordinary cell phone in your hands. But a digital recorder with plugs, wires, battery box, all that hidden under your shirt, man, that's a whole different situation.
Take care and good luck

With the screen brightness set to '1', I think it is considerably less bright than the average mobile phone...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 26, 2007, 03:33:39 PM
Friends,

I'm not trying to argue about stealth skills. I have my own tricks too. ;) But that's not the point. I'm just asking if the red light could be turned off or hidden with black tape( my good friend Arni already told me so). If not, no problem at all. When I started to use my R-09, the hey-I'm-taping-here light was always On. A piece of black tape took care of this issue. No sweat.
I'm a man of simple tastes and simple questions.

Thanks a lot ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 27, 2007, 06:14:26 AM
Here is another little tid-bit on the PMD620...Using a pair of fresh Duracells, I got about seven hours of record time using the internal mics.  Formatted the card, made some menu selections, then recorded an entire 4 GB card (6 hours 23 minutes at 16 bit/44.1 kHz), erased the file and started recording again (around 45 minutes).  So not quite continuous recording time, but definitely continuous use...

I guess with mic plug-in, it would be quite a bit less; with line-in a bit more.  With some nice rechargeables, I think you get a pretty long record time...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 27, 2007, 08:29:48 AM
Here is another little tid-bit on the PMD620...Using a pair of fresh Duracells, I got about seven hours of record time using the internal mics.  Formatted the card, made some menu selections, then recorded an entire 4 GB card (6 hours 23 minutes at 16 bit/44.1 kHz), erased the file and started recording again (around 45 minutes).  So not quite continuous recording time, but definitely continuous use...

I guess with mic plug-in, it would be quite a bit less; with line-in a bit more.  With some nice rechargeables, I think you get a pretty long record time...

Thanks for all the great info. But there's something I must confess: I'm a lost case.
I'd buy this recorder anyways. Actually, next week I'll have one in my hands.
I just can't help it :) Plus, so far I've only heard good things about the new Marantz.
Thanks! ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 27, 2007, 09:03:01 AM
Mine hasn´t arrived yet, hopefully tomorrow Friday ???.
At least I was able to purchase an 8GB SD-HC Transcend card today. ;)
later...

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 27, 2007, 10:37:02 AM
Mine hasn´t arrived yet, hopefully tomorrow Friday ???.
At least I was able to purchase an 8GB SD-HC Transcend card today. ;)
later...


Hey Arni, can you use that 8GB with the Marantz? I mean, without file splits? ???
This is awesome :o
Take care,

Sergio
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 27, 2007, 11:13:22 AM
Mine hasn´t arrived yet, hopefully tomorrow Friday ???.
At least I was able to purchase an 8GB SD-HC Transcend card today. ;)
later...


Hey Arni, can you use that 8GB with the Marantz? I mean, without file splits? ???
This is awesome :o
Take care,

Sergio
Sure, the SD card size determines the filesize...no 2GB splits as we know from the R09, irivers, Microtracks, etc...aaron hast tested this yet with his 4GB card resulting in a 3.78GB file.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: JD on December 27, 2007, 11:21:34 AM
Has anyone seen the insides of one of these yet? I'm curious about how the jacks are mounted to the PCB.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on December 27, 2007, 12:51:38 PM
Sure, the SD card size determines the filesize...no 2GB splits as we know from the R09, irivers, Microtracks, etc...aaron hast tested this yet with his 4GB card resulting in a 3.78GB file.
Yes, but a WAV over 4GB in size?
Can you please run a test on the 8GB card and see what it does after 4GB of audio?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 27, 2007, 01:24:37 PM
Sure, the SD card size determines the filesize...no 2GB splits as we know from the R09, irivers, Microtracks, etc...aaron hast tested this yet with his 4GB card resulting in a 3.78GB file.
Yes, but a WAV over 4GB in size?
Can you please run a test on the 8GB card and see what it does after 4GB of audio?

As soon as I got my 620, hopefully tomorrow friday, I´ll run the test at 24/48 ;) and check the result.
WAV files seem to be limited to 4GB of size, so I guess the Marantz will do a seamless split at 4GB.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roving Sign on December 27, 2007, 01:29:46 PM
Sure, the SD card size determines the filesize...no 2GB splits as we know from the R09, irivers, Microtracks, etc...aaron hast tested this yet with his 4GB card resulting in a 3.78GB file.
Yes, but a WAV over 4GB in size?
Can you please run a test on the 8GB card and see what it does after 4GB of audio?


As cool as this sounds - doesnt this create another set of potential headaches...arent some of these files getting too big for a lot of editors?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 27, 2007, 01:31:17 PM
Sure, the SD card size determines the filesize...no 2GB splits as we know from the R09, irivers, Microtracks, etc...aaron hast tested this yet with his 4GB card resulting in a 3.78GB file.
Yes, but a WAV over 4GB in size?
Can you please run a test on the 8GB card and see what it does after 4GB of audio?


As cool as this sounds - doesnt this create another set of potential headaches...arent some of these files getting too big for a lot of editors?
I don´t think I´ll ever record a concert resulting in a file larger than 2-3GB.
The 620 has the auto-trackmark(known from MD-recorders) feature so ie. for meetings you can have a new track created automatically after 5,10,...minutes or 1,2,...12 hours.

The most important "breakthrough" is the non-existing 2GB-split problem ;).
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 27, 2007, 01:59:16 PM
Sure, the SD card size determines the filesize...no 2GB splits as we know from the R09, irivers, Microtracks, etc...aaron hast tested this yet with his 4GB card resulting in a 3.78GB file.
Yes, but a WAV over 4GB in size?
Can you please run a test on the 8GB card and see what it does after 4GB of audio?


As cool as this sounds - doesnt this create another set of potential headaches...arent some of these files getting too big for a lot of editors?
I don´t think I´ll ever record a concert resulting in a file larger than 2-3GB.
The 620 has the auto-trackmark(known from MD-recorders) feature so ie. for meetings you can have a new track created automatically after 5,10,...minutes or 1,2,...12 hours.

The most important "breakthrough" is the non-existing 2GB-split problem ;).


I totally agree.No more 2GB-split is awesome.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on December 27, 2007, 04:08:35 PM

The most important "breakthrough" is the non-existing 2GB-split problem ;).


What's the file format used on this machine?

Quoted from Wikipedia: "The WAV format is limited to files that are less than 4 GB in size, due to its use of a 32 bit unsigned integer to record the file size header (some programs limit the file size to 2-4 GB)."

So if this recorder uses standard WAV there is still a 4GB limit. Not that that should be a big problem, but just wondering if that's the case here. Is it?

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 03:53:37 AM
My Marantz PMD620 arrived 10 minutes ago  ;D.
Will run the 24/48 test with the 8GB card later as soon as the 620´s temperature changed from "frozen" to "room" ;).
test is running....
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: greenman on December 28, 2007, 05:35:42 AM
ive got a 620 here

seems nice and starts quick

compared to a zoom h2 i tested in a store find it difficult to aim toward a certain noise source as mics seem to want to record 360 degrees

also, i wonder if it or any device can charge batteries while they are inside so that they dont need to be taken out. though marantz sems more robust compared to edirol, batteries come out easier out of the edirol

and has anyone made tests how long it can record in 16 bit 44.1 wav or 192khz mp3?

a firmware update would be good to make it record 320k mp3

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 06:06:16 AM
ive got a 620 here

seems nice and starts quick

compared to a zoom h2 i tested in a store find it difficult to aim toward a certain noise source as mics seem to want to record 360 degrees

also, i wonder if it or any device can charge batteries while they are inside so that they dont need to be taken out. though marantz sems more robust compared to edirol, batteries come out easier out of the edirol

and has anyone made tests how long it can record in 16 bit 44.1 wav or 192khz mp3?

a firmware update would be good to make it record 320k mp3



On a 8GB card I can record 7h48min at highest quality 24bit/48kHz.

At 16bit 44.1kHz you get 12h48min on a 8GB card, 6h24min on a 4GB card or 3h12min on a 2GB card.

Press "Display" and you´ll see remaining rec-time depending on your card and bitrate.

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 28, 2007, 06:33:31 AM
compared to a zoom h2 i tested in a store find it difficult to aim toward a certain noise source as mics seem to want to record 360 degrees

The PMD620 has one pair of omni-directional mics, whereas the H2 has two pairs (front/90 and back/120) of cardioids...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 28, 2007, 07:06:23 AM
Quote from: Marantz Technical Support, Thu, 27 Dec 2007 16:39:10 -0500
Hello,

Thanks for your message.

There are no plans for a firmware update to allow the screen to be turned off at this point in time.

Feel free to contact technical support at (866) 405-2154 if you have any further questions.

Best regards,

Technical Support
D&M Professional
(Denon & Marantz Professional)
(866) 405-2154 - Toll Free
www.d-mpro.com
www.denondj.com

And this just in from the folks at Marantz...Guess there won't be a way to turn the screen off in the immediate future.  However the OLED is pretty subdued, as I mentioned earlier.

EDIT:  Also, I guess if they receive enough inquiries they may decide to make an update.  I doubt the low level of light coming from it will be problematic for anyone, though...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 07:59:59 AM
8GB card test-update: 24/48 internal mics with 2 rechargeables: 3h48min and still showing full battery on the display.
soon a new file should be created at the 4GB limit at about 4h....

The 620 saves the file and shuts down at 4GB which is 3h52:01 at 24bit/48kHz on my 8GB card.The recorded seamless filesize is 3.906.248KB
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 08:20:24 AM
Am starting the 2nd file now to check the capacity of the 2 rechargeables....
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on December 28, 2007, 09:47:01 AM
8GB card test-update: 24/48 internal mics with 2 rechargeables: 3h48min and still showing full battery on the display.
soon a new file should be created at the 4GB limit at about 4h....

The 620 saves the file and shuts down at 4GB which is 3h52:01 at 24bit/48kHz on my 8GB card.The recorded seamless filesize is 3.906.248KB
Hmmm. Size is not 4GiB but maybe 4GB. (4.000.000.000 bytes)
Shutdown is not implying seamless continuation after 4GB.
The MT also had the 4GiB issue....
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 10:21:18 AM
8GB card test-update: 24/48 internal mics with 2 rechargeables: 3h48min and still showing full battery on the display.
soon a new file should be created at the 4GB limit at about 4h....

The 620 saves the file and shuts down at 4GB which is 3h52:01 at 24bit/48kHz on my 8GB card.The recorded seamless filesize is 3.906.248KB
Hmmm. Size is not 4GiB but maybe 4GB. (4.000.000.000 bytes)
Shutdown is not implying seamless continuation after 4GB.
The MT also had the 4GiB issue....

I personally will NEVER run into this "issue" as I´ll never tape a show that lasts 3h52min AND I never use 48kHz but 44.1kHz.
;)
SO this is not really a big issue for tapers IMHO.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on December 28, 2007, 10:26:02 AM
Hmmm. Size is not 4GiB but maybe 4GB. (4.000.000.000 bytes)
Shutdown is not implying seamless continuation after 4GB.
The MT also had the 4GiB issue....

I personally will NEVER run into this "issue" as I´ll never tape a show that lasts 3h52min AND I never use 48kHz but 44.1kHz.
;)
SO this is not really a big issue for tapers IMHO.
It depends.
When a file can be 2^32 bytes, you want 2^32 and not less.
Also how, what, when and where you record could give you the need for more than 4 hours at 24/48.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 28, 2007, 10:30:06 AM
The MT also had the 4GiB issue....

Perhaps I am mistaken, but I thought the MT had it's file size issues at 2GB?

For me, the 4 GB limit is fine (and appears to be the WAV format limit anyway).  I will never tape something with sets longer than 3h 52m.  Starting a new file on the 620 can be done with one touch too (three if you count key lock off and key lock back on).
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 28, 2007, 10:40:14 AM
My Marantz PMD620 arrived 10 minutes ago  ;D.
Will run the 24/48 test with the 8GB card later as soon as the 620´s temperature changed from "frozen" to "room" ;).
test is running....


My dear Arni,

Looks great! I'll have mine next week in NY. I'm really looking forward to put my hands on this package.

Thanks for the tests.

Sergio
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 10:53:54 AM
regarding dimensions:
it´s 2-3mm shorter than the iriver h120 but a little thicker than a h120.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roving Sign on December 28, 2007, 10:58:23 AM
Can you define where the splits occur?

Could I always split at 2GB or 4GB?

Personally I would want to avoid files that go beyond the WAV spec -

Curious why Marantz would take that approach? - seems like they are just asking for support issues!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 10:59:06 AM
Hmmm. Size is not 4GiB but maybe 4GB. (4.000.000.000 bytes)
Shutdown is not implying seamless continuation after 4GB.
The MT also had the 4GiB issue....

I personally will NEVER run into this "issue" as I´ll never tape a show that lasts 3h52min AND I never use 48kHz but 44.1kHz.
;)
SO this is not really a big issue for tapers IMHO.
Also how, what, when and where you record could give you the need for more than 4 hours at 24/48.
In this case I´d press the REC button in between 2 songs or whatever to start a new track as aaron said.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 11:00:02 AM
Can you define where the splits occur?

Could I always split at 2GB or 4GB?

Personally I would want to avoid files that go beyond the WAV spec -

Curious why Marantz would take that approach? - seems like they are just asking for support issues!
No you can´t define in the presets where to split.
Press REC and it will begin a new file.
BUT you can set the "auto track" funtion and start new files EVERY:
1,5,15 or 30minutes
OR
1,2,6,8,12, or 24 hours.

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roving Sign on December 28, 2007, 11:01:50 AM
Can you define where the splits occur?

Could I always split at 2GB or 4GB?

Personally I would want to avoid files that go beyond the WAV spec -

Curious why Marantz would take that approach? - seems like they are just asking for support issues!
No you can´t define in the presets where to split.
Press REC and it will begin a new file.

Has anyone tried to open a 6 GB file in something like CDWave? Will the software load such a file?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 11:03:00 AM
Can you define where the splits occur?

Could I always split at 2GB or 4GB?

Personally I would want to avoid files that go beyond the WAV spec -

Curious why Marantz would take that approach? - seems like they are just asking for support issues!
No you can´t define in the presets where to split.
Press REC and it will begin a new file.

Has anyone tried to open a 6 GB file in something like CDWave? Will the software load such a file?
hey there is NO 6GB file ;) WAV has its limit at 4GB as mentioned above.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roving Sign on December 28, 2007, 11:06:44 AM
Can you define where the splits occur?

Could I always split at 2GB or 4GB?

Personally I would want to avoid files that go beyond the WAV spec -

Curious why Marantz would take that approach? - seems like they are just asking for support issues!
No you can´t define in the presets where to split.
Press REC and it will begin a new file.

Has anyone tried to open a 6 GB file in something like CDWave? Will the software load such a file?
hey there is NO 6GB file ;) WAV has its limit at 4GB as mentioned above.

Got that - but  - if understand this thread correctly - the 620 will record files bigger than 4GB...so it does not obey the WAV spec...

So - you CAN have a 6GB Wav file...just wondering what Windows would think of a 6GB wav???
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 11:18:34 AM
Can you define where the splits occur?

Could I always split at 2GB or 4GB?

Personally I would want to avoid files that go beyond the WAV spec -

Curious why Marantz would take that approach? - seems like they are just asking for support issues!
No you can´t define in the presets where to split.
Press REC and it will begin a new file.

Has anyone tried to open a 6 GB file in something like CDWave? Will the software load such a file?
hey there is NO 6GB file ;) WAV has its limit at 4GB as mentioned above.

Got that - but  - if understand this thread correctly - the 620 will record files bigger than 4GB...so it does not obey the WAV spec...

So - you CAN have a 6GB Wav file...just wondering what Windows would think of a 6GB wav???
No, the 620 will NOT record files bigger than 4GB(WAV limit) ;), i just ran the test and at ~4GB it shut down.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 11:21:07 AM
test-update: my 620 at 24/48 using internal mics and LEDs OFF is at 7 hours recording-time now with 2 rechargeables 2600mAh.
all 3 segments of the battery-power-indicator are still at 100% ;).

49min recording time remaining until the 8GB card is filled with 2  ~4GB files(max. 7h48min on a 8GB sd-hc card at 24/48)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Roving Sign on December 28, 2007, 11:42:20 AM
Can you define where the splits occur?

Could I always split at 2GB or 4GB?

Personally I would want to avoid files that go beyond the WAV spec -

Curious why Marantz would take that approach? - seems like they are just asking for support issues!
No you can´t define in the presets where to split.
Press REC and it will begin a new file.

Has anyone tried to open a 6 GB file in something like CDWave? Will the software load such a file?
hey there is NO 6GB file ;) WAV has its limit at 4GB as mentioned above.

Got that - but  - if understand this thread correctly - the 620 will record files bigger than 4GB...so it does not obey the WAV spec...

So - you CAN have a 6GB Wav file...just wondering what Windows would think of a 6GB wav???
No, the 620 will NOT record files bigger than 4GB(WAV limit) ;), i just ran the test and at ~4GB it shut down.


So the statement "The 620 can make very long uninterrupted recordings, restricted only by the size of the recording media. " is erroneous???

Arni - I think you also said something to this effect in an earlier post - hence my confusion...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: HarpDoc on December 28, 2007, 12:07:20 PM
Great job on the tests, Arni. Keep 'em coming. Here are the things that I'd like to know:

-What is the quality of the internal mics for recording music?
-How high SPL can the internal mics handle before distorting?
-How does the 620 do with external mics without a battery box (mics straight in) with high SPL?
-How does the sound quality compare to the Iriver H1xx?

Thanks!!!!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 12:10:25 PM
7h43min at 24/48 with internal mics and NOW the 8GB card is filled 100% AND the 3 segments are still at 100%  ;D.
Will format the card now and restart recording to check when the batteries will die.

after 8 hours recording the 1st segment of the 3 segments disappeared.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 12:24:38 PM
Great job on the tests, Arni. Keep 'em coming. Here are the things that I'd like to know:

-What is the quality of the internal mics for recording music?
-How high SPL can the internal mics handle before distorting?
-How does the 620 do with external mics without a battery box (mics straight in) with high SPL?
-How does the sound quality compare to the Iriver H1xx?

Thanks!!!!
I´ll test this as soon as shows are being played here in Vienna..seems everybody is still on xmas-holidays ;).
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 28, 2007, 02:25:17 PM
Great news!
2 rechargeables 2700mAh in my PMD620 made 10 hours at 24bit 48kHz until the batteries died using the internal mics.
All power-saving options were activated:
no LEDs
LED(display)-brightness set to 1 of 10(brightest)
5V plugin-power OFF


As I mentioned in some post above, the 8GB card was filled 100% after 7h43min.
I formatted the card and startet recording again.
Now it recorded for another 2hours and 12min.



Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 29, 2007, 03:07:14 AM
Using 24bit at 44,1kHz(taper´s setting for concerts) makes 8h24min on the 8GB card.
The 4GB-WAV-limit would then be at about 4h12min at this quality-setting.
In order to avoid the 620 being shut down at 4GB, simply press the REC-button at about 4hours, which results in a new seamless file.
Smarter solution => use the auto-track-function at ie. every 2 hours (4 hours not available in the menue).
Using these settings it will continiously record 8h24min at 24bit 44.1kHz.

The same goes for 24bit 48kHz.
3h52min the 4GB shut-down-limit for WAV files then.
Using auto-track at every 2 hours will result in a 7h43min recording using a 8GB sd-hc card at 24/48.

Another smart feature is the storage of presets on the SD card.
3 presets can be stored as a file and used for ie. mailing to other tapers.
each preset contains all important parameters such as:
input(internals, mic, line-in or AUTO)
resolution/sample rate
low-cut
LEDs
MIC-attenuation
etc.....

A useful preset-configuration could be:
preset 1: for the venue I most frequently tape at
preset 2: for another venue I tape quite often
preset 3: for speech recordings




Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on December 29, 2007, 06:21:28 AM
In order to avoid the 620 being shut down at 4GB, simply press the REC-button at about 4hours, which results in a new seamless file.

Hey arni, are the splits truly seamless?  They sound like it, but the manual is a bit ambiguous about that...

And I like the presets too...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 29, 2007, 07:23:31 AM
In order to avoid the 620 being shut down at 4GB, simply press the REC-button at about 4hours, which results in a new seamless file.

Hey arni, are the splits truly seamless?  They sound like it, but the manual is a bit ambiguous about that...

And I like the presets too...
http://www.transom.org/tools/recording_interviewing/200712_marantz_620/

Not bit for bit but I doubt it´s audible.
I will never face this "issue" using 24/44.1 for concerts as no band plays more than 4h ::).

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 29, 2007, 04:42:02 PM
Using 24bit at 44,1kHz(taper´s setting for concerts) makes 8h24min on the 8GB card.
The 4GB-WAV-limit would then be at about 4h12min at this quality-setting.
In order to avoid the 620 being shut down at 4GB, simply press the REC-button at about 4hours, which results in a new seamless file.
Smarter solution => use the auto-track-function at ie. every 2 hours (4 hours not available in the menue).
Using these settings it will continiously record 8h24min at 24bit 44.1kHz.

The same goes for 24bit 48kHz.
3h52min the 4GB shut-down-limit for WAV files then.
Using auto-track at every 2 hours will result in a 7h43min recording using a 8GB sd-hc card at 24/48.

Another smart feature is the storage of presets on the SD card.
3 presets can be stored as a file and used for ie. mailing to other tapers.
each preset contains all important parameters such as:
input(internals, mic, line-in or AUTO)
resolution/sample rate
low-cut
LEDs
MIC-attenuation
levelmeter-display adjustment(the look+feel comparable to iriver´s rockbox levelmeter settings can be adjusted here)
etc.....

A useful preset-configuration could be:
preset 1: for the venue I most frequently tape at
preset 2: for another venue I tape quite often
preset 3: for speech recordings






Arni,

Wonderful job with the tests. Thanks for that.

Take care,

Sergio
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on December 30, 2007, 06:28:59 AM
Is there a simple test to find out how many samples (if at all) are lost when switching to a new file on the PMD620?
If so: I'd be very interested to know the details.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 31, 2007, 08:08:29 AM
Is there a simple test to find out how many samples (if at all) are lost when switching to a new file on the PMD620?
If so: I'd be very interested to know the details.

Thanks!
Can you here the tracksplit?
IMHO the split created by pressing REC is not audible - thus it´s seamless  ;D!

Here I did a testrun at home using the REC-button for creating a new track.
Then I converted the 2 WAV files to a single track using "foobar" software.
Tell me where the 2nd track in this single file begins? ;).

recording settings:
standing in my living room recording some show coming from my hifi ;)
24bit, 44.1kHz
internal mics
mic-attenuation -12dB (-24db = max. attenuation/low-sens and 0db = no attenuation/high sens)
gain at -4dB (-30 = MUTE and 0 = max. gain)


download the single file here:
http://www.file-upload.net/download-585477/pmd620-2-tracks-converted-to-1.wav.html
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on December 31, 2007, 10:11:59 AM
Here I did a testrun at home using the REC-button for creating a new track.
Then I converted the 2 WAV files to a single track using "foobar" software.
Tell me where the 2nd track in this single file begins? ;).

I think there's a minor click audible at 1:35 into the file, right? (or after about 4207250 samples)

Don't think this is seamless, then?

Could you try the auto-track option and see if that is seamless?

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 31, 2007, 10:40:10 AM
Here I did a testrun at home using the REC-button for creating a new track.
Then I converted the 2 WAV files to a single track using "foobar" software.
Tell me where the 2nd track in this single file begins? ;).

I think there's a minor click audible at 1:35 into the file, right? (or after about 4207250 samples)

Don't think this is seamless, then?

Could you try the auto-track option and see if that is seamless?

Roel

Yes you are right  ;D!
Well, i used internal mics, could have been the mechanical click being recorded when pressing REC.
Seamless in my understanding is not audible when playing back in the living room ;).
I don´t hear the click then.
Did you hear it OR find it with your audio software? ;)
Nevertheless during a live recording there is no 0,1-10 seconds gap as other recorders run into ;).
AND as said many times before, no band plays more than 3h52min (4GB wav limit for a single file at 24/48).

Will record a file now using my DPA 4061 on mic-in with plugin-power on........and post the result here in some minutes.....
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 31, 2007, 10:52:33 AM
....here the new testfile with dpa 4061 on mic-in with plugin-power activated:
http://www.file-upload.net/download-585768/pmd-620-dpa-4061.wav.html

mic-attenuation: 0dB(high sens)
plugin-power: ON
max. gain = 0dB
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Will_S on December 31, 2007, 11:49:50 AM

AND as said many times before, no band plays more than 3h52min (4GB wav limit for a single file).


That's not entirely true.  Maybe no band you tape does.  Also, it can be handy in festival situations to leave a recorder running all day, including the breaks between sets (if the recorder is somewhere not very easy to access, for example).  So  even though it might not matter to you, seamless file splits are very important to some of us, even at the 4G mark.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 31, 2007, 01:59:24 PM

AND as said many times before, no band plays more than 3h52min (4GB wav limit for a single file).


That's not entirely true.  Maybe no band you tape does.  Also, it can be handy in festival situations to leave a recorder running all day, including the breaks between sets (if the recorder is somewhere not very easy to access, for example).  So  even though it might not matter to you, seamless file splits are very important to some of us, even at the 4G mark.


It's just a digital recorder, not the Second Coming, friends ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on December 31, 2007, 02:10:44 PM

AND as said many times before, no band plays more than 3h52min (4GB wav limit for a single file).


That's not entirely true.  Maybe no band you tape does.  Also, it can be handy in festival situations to leave a recorder running all day, including the breaks between sets (if the recorder is somewhere not very easy to access, for example).  So  even though it might not matter to you, seamless file splits are very important to some of us, even at the 4G mark.


It's just a digital recorder, not the Second Coming, friends ;D ;D ;D ;D
Yes, for stealthing in 24bit it´s perfect and THAT`s what I´m doing more than 50 times a year ;).
Also 2 day festivals are no problem for the PMD620.
Grab 4 x 1.5V rechargeables in your pocket and you are set for 24 hours recording.
;)
For continous recording, I´d use the auto-track function and nobody can tell me by LISTENING to the recording where the new track begins(ok after 2 hours HAHA, but it´s not audible just by listening on your homestereo).
With a 16GB sd-card you could record 16 hours 49min at 24/44,1 switching batteries after the 1st 8GB(8h24min 29sec) card is used ;).

Happy New Year...only 4 hours left of 2007 here in Austria!
 ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on December 31, 2007, 02:35:25 PM

Arni,

Happy New Year to you, your family and friends.

It's been a pleasure talking to you, friend.

Good luck and a Great 2008!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on January 01, 2008, 06:27:00 AM
Happy New Year 1 more time to you all,

here on this short mpeg4-vid, you can see the levelmeters on the PMD620.
ALL-LEDs set to OFF for discrete stealth-taping ;).
http://www.file-upload.net/download-586632/CIMG1426.AVI.MP4.html
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: udovdh on January 01, 2008, 09:00:44 AM
Interesting! Danke schoen.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on January 01, 2008, 01:03:22 PM
Did you hear it OR find it with your audio software? ;)

I heard a light click there when I turned the sound up loud. Later I inspected it with Adobe Audition. The 'seam' sounds more like missing samples than a button-click to me.

Still, pretty damn good!

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on January 01, 2008, 01:12:11 PM
Did you hear it OR find it with your audio software? ;)

I heard a light click there when I turned the sound up loud. Later I inspected it with Adobe Audition. The 'seam' sounds more like missing samples than a button-click to me.

Still, pretty damn good!

Roel

Check the 2nd sample made with external mics(dpa4061) and let me know if you can hear anything.
I can´t hear anything and I assume nobody else would just by listening to this song on a home or carstereo or with headphones.

The REC-button doesn´t click, it´s kind of big soft-touch-button with no click-feeling.
The level +/- buttons are "click"_buttons.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on January 01, 2008, 03:30:00 PM
Check the 2nd sample made with external mics(dpa4061) and let me know if you can hear anything.
I can´t hear anything and I assume nobody else would just by listening to this song on a home or carstereo or with headphones.

I really can't find the split. Where is it?

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on January 01, 2008, 03:47:50 PM
Check the 2nd sample made with external mics(dpa4061) and let me know if you can hear anything.
I can´t hear anything and I assume nobody else would just by listening to this song on a home or carstereo or with headphones.

I really can't find the split. Where is it?

Roel

The 2nd track starts 24seconds before the track´s ending. ;)
2 merged tracks make: 51,380 seconds
track 2 makes the last 23,790 seconds

By the way:
step 1: the LEVEL-LED flashes green when the peak, set in the preset-menue, has been topped by the levelmeters(-6db is max setting and my setting for taping - available settings for LEVEL-LED are: -54dB, -38dB, -20dB, -12dB and my setting -6dB).
When levels are between -6db(my setting) and 0db the green light flashes.
step 2: the OVER-LED flashes red as soon as clipping occurs...of course;)..... AND stops flashing as soon as no clipping occurs.

As said before these 2 LEDs and the red REC-button LED can be disabled in the preset-menue for stealthing ;).
Some of you might use the LEDs for blind-level-checking...set the LEVEL-LED to -12dB(green) and put the pmd620 into your front-pocket where you can have an eye on the LEVEL-LED and OVER-LED. ;)
The same goes for "distant-level-checking": just make sure you can see the pmd620 when hitting the kick-drum as musician or whatelse ;).
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on January 01, 2008, 04:21:57 PM
The 2nd track starts 24seconds before the track´s ending. ;)
track1: 51,380seconds
so track 2 starts at 51,380

The sample you uploaded is 51,380s long, so I think you uploaded only track 1, and not the merged two? Or..? ???

Roel


Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on January 01, 2008, 04:35:52 PM
The 2nd track starts 24seconds before the track´s ending. ;)
track1: 51,380seconds
so track 2 starts at 51,380

The sample you uploaded is 51,380s long, so I think you uploaded only track 1, and not the merged two? Or..? ???

Roel



sorry, the complete merged track is 51,380 long and the 2nd track makes the last 23,790 seconds.
so you actually downloaded the correct sample.
The 2nd track begins at 27,590.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on January 02, 2008, 01:18:09 AM
sorry, the complete merged track is 51,380 long and the 2nd track makes the last 23,790 seconds.
so you actually downloaded the correct sample.
The 2nd track begins at 27,590.

Excellent! Even a close inspection of the waveform at that point doesn't show anything.. :D

Thanks for testing!

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on January 02, 2008, 03:03:47 AM
sorry, the complete merged track is 51,380 long and the 2nd track makes the last 23,790 seconds.
so you actually downloaded the correct sample.
The 2nd track begins at 27,590.

Excellent! Even a close inspection of the waveform at that point doesn't show anything.. :D

Thanks for testing!

Roel
Marantz does NOT guarantee a "seamless" split in its manual. It always depends on the recording mode and the card being used and the sample rate and resolution. I´m sure some samples will be dropped but as long as it´s nOT audible it should be perfect for tapers. ;)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on January 02, 2008, 08:02:04 AM
Here a short MPEG4 vid of my PMD620 showing the green LEVEL-LED, the red OVER-LED and the red-REC-button-ring:
LEVEL-LED peak was set to -6dB here, as described some posts above the green light flashes as soon as -6dB are shown on the levelmeter IF set to -6dB.
Then I turned up thge volume on my homestereo to run into clipping => which sets the OVER-LED to red as long as clipping occurs.
Then I turned down the volume and both LEDs(LEVEL+OVER) stop blinking.

http://www.file-upload.net/download-588655/CIMG1431.AVI.MP4.html

For recording, LEVEL-LED set to -12db seems smart to me ;) in case you need "distant-level-checking" from several meters sitting on the drums or whatever.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on January 02, 2008, 10:53:25 AM
sorry, the complete merged track is 51,380 long and the 2nd track makes the last 23,790 seconds.
so you actually downloaded the correct sample.
The 2nd track begins at 27,590.

Excellent! Even a close inspection of the waveform at that point doesn't show anything.. :D

Thanks for testing!

Roel
Marantz does NOT guarantee a "seamless" split in its manual. It always depends on the recording mode and the card being used and the sample rate and resolution. I´m sure some samples will be dropped but as long as it´s nOT audible it should be perfect for tapers. ;)


It also depends on the file size, apparently ("The continuity of sound is not guaranteed and depends on the speed of a card or the file size")...But, in my case, it doesn't matter too much if the split is truly seamless, audibly seamless, or contains a gap.  I have rarely, if ever, seen a set that hit the four hour mark (about 4GB at 24 bit), but I have seen quite a number that exceeded two hours (around 2GB at 24 bit).  I guess what I am saying is that, with 4GB files, I will never need to split files (seamless-ly or otherwise) during a set (in contrast to 2GB).

That being said, I can envision circumstances, as per Will_S's post, where it may be useful to run longer than the 4GB limit, so I am curious what happens when you split after recording a long file.  Did you try this already Arni?  If not, I 'll try to take a look tonight when I get home...Like I said, I might never encounter these situations but nice to know nonetheless...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on January 03, 2008, 06:53:30 AM
Here I created a track by pressing REC after about 60min recording with internals at 16/44.1:-1st track 21.120(I deleted the rest of the recording..about 60min and only the 21.120 seconds remained in the end of the track where the trackmark was done manually)
-2nd track 10.340

The 2 tracks were merged with "Foobar".
http://www.file-upload.net/download-590399/joined_21s120_10s340.wav.html
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: ridemyllama on January 03, 2008, 09:42:59 AM
 ???
My question is how hot does the PDM620 get under stealth recording conditions and can it take the slight movement asssociated with stealth recording?

I know the Korg gets hot while recording and was wondering about the PDM.  I've got to the point where I am paranoid to use my 2nd Edirol R-09 because of the input jack problems and am looking for a replacement that is small and more reliable.

Don
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on January 03, 2008, 11:20:34 AM
???
My question is how hot does the PDM620 get under stealth recording conditions and can it take the slight movement asssociated with stealth recording?

I know the Korg gets hot while recording and was wondering about the PDM.  I've got to the point where I am paranoid to use my 2nd Edirol R-09 because of the input jack problems and am looking for a replacement that is small and more reliable.

Don
Where were you hiding you Korg? In your trousers?
I will do my 1st stealth-recording with the PMD620 on January 18th, but I will use the belt-clip which comes with the PMD620 after I set the proper levels. SO there won´t be any issues with temperature.
Never heard of any temperature issue with recorders or movement-issues.
Ok, I never jump or dance around - I´m there to pull a great tape and not for dancing.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: ridemyllama on January 03, 2008, 12:40:05 PM
I don't use a Korg but an Edirol R-09 with Schoeps MK4>Nbox.  My backup recorder is a DAT M-1.  I use a fanny pack for all my gear.

Let me know how the PDM works out.

Don
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on January 03, 2008, 12:50:16 PM
???
My question is how hot does the PDM620 get under stealth recording conditions and can it take the slight movement asssociated with stealth recording?

I know the Korg gets hot while recording and was wondering about the PDM.  I've got to the point where I am paranoid to use my 2nd Edirol R-09 because of the input jack problems and am looking for a replacement that is small and more reliable.

Don

Don, I think the Korg gets as hot because of the internal hard drive. Since PMD620 uses a memory card (like the R-09), I would guess that it doesn't get as hot.

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on January 04, 2008, 12:13:07 PM
My question is how hot does the PDM620 get under stealth recording conditions and can it take the slight movement asssociated with stealth recording?

When I was testing out battery life, I ran the PMD620 for about 7 straight hours.  It was cool to the touch afterwards, and I suspect that if it does heat up, it is not by very much.  

Unless you are using the internal mics, or jerking the cable/jack around a lot, I think that a little movement is no problem at all (at least from the perspective of noise)...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: fp on January 07, 2008, 01:47:10 PM
thanx Arni99 for all your tests ...
i have to change or buy an another recording gear i think i will go for this one ... cuse i know hat i will buy !!!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: dickmadison on January 08, 2008, 11:11:51 PM
Hey All,

Great discussion and review so far.  I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts regarding using the PMD620 or R-09 as a portable audio playback device?  I am leaning to purchase the PMD620 for recording sessions but I am also in the market for a a great portable audio playback device (primarily with wav files).  I know it is the craze for Ipods and such but I'm not one to go with conventions.  If anyone has any experience on using either device (or similar devices for playback), I would be interested in seeing what you had to say or if this was even recommended.  I am not sure if the internal DAC is of high quality or not.  I am aware that a possible headphone amp may be needed.  It seems that the both devices don't have digital out, either SPDIF or optical so portable DAC might be out of the question.  If you have any devices in mind that work well for listening to great music on the go.  I would greatly appreciate it!  Thanks all.

DM
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on January 10, 2008, 01:19:13 PM
Hey All,

Great discussion and review so far.  I was wondering if anyone had any thoughts regarding using the PMD620 or R-09 as a portable audio playback device?  I am leaning to purchase the PMD620 for recording sessions but I am also in the market for a a great portable audio playback device (primarily with wav files).  I know it is the craze for Ipods and such but I'm not one to go with conventions.  If anyone has any experience on using either device (or similar devices for playback), I would be interested in seeing what you had to say or if this was even recommended.  I am not sure if the internal DAC is of high quality or not.  I am aware that a possible headphone amp may be needed.  It seems that the both devices don't have digital out, either SPDIF or optical so portable DAC might be out of the question.  If you have any devices in mind that work well for listening to great music on the go.  I would greatly appreciate it!  Thanks all.

DM
I tested mp3 (VBR) on my PMD620.
The sound is ok for ME ;) using good headphones.
It seems to play all mp3 bitrates, VBR aswell as CBR encoded.

You can´t navigate through folders as the 620 only accepts files in it´s ROOT directory!!!
Putting files into folders makes them unaccessable!
Using the up/down-ring-button you can navigate pretty quick through the single files though.
;)
Using WAV files shows "remaining time" too.

The menue-option "File-list" shows all tracks so you can easily find the desired track by pressing up/down.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: kbergend on January 12, 2008, 01:16:25 PM
+t to Arni for all the valuable information on this unit!

I used my PMD620 last night for the first time at a solo acoustic show by Tift Merritt at Union Hall in Brooklyn.  These samples were recorded with AT943 cards straight into the recorder's mic-in jack at 24/44.1 with no attenuation.  (you'll probably want to download these rather than trying to stream them)

This was recorded about 8 feet away from the performer a little right of center.  It's unedited except for MBIT+ dithering to 16 bits.

http://keithfromny.org/downloads/tift_pmd620a.wav

She surprised us all by standing on the very edge of the stage in front of her mic stand and doing this song unplugged about 5 feet away from me.  I didn't have a chance to adjust the levels, so this track is after an 8dB boost in post with the applause limited:

http://keithfromny.org/downloads/tift_pmd620b.wav

Some discernible noise, but way better than analog recordings without an external pre on the MT1 (which sound like Niagara Falls in the background after this much gain).

In terms of operation, this unit really looks and feels light years more professional than the MT (which is about the same size).  It powers up and down almost instantly.  Once you've mastered the presets it is simple to operate, and the controls have a very solid feel.  The meters are easy to read, and the green level LED is adjustable.  As for battery life, with 2 rechargeable 1230mAh Ni-MH I had it recording for almost 2 hours with 5V supplied to the mics, listened to the show on the ride home, had it hooked up to my PC via USB all night, and the charge indicator still says full!  If you're looking for a compact analog recorder, IMO you're definitely better off spending a little more for this vs. the MT II.  I only wish it had digital in.

As a plug for my girl Tift (who recently moved to NYC), she played a bunch of new songs last night and I think her forthcoming album will be killer!  I'm looking forward to trying this unit out at a much louder show in the near future.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: flintstone on January 12, 2008, 07:08:34 PM
kebergend, very nice recording!  Thanks for sharing in WAV format.

I'm a little unclear about where the mics were during the performance.
At your seat?  On the stage a little right of center?

Flintstone
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: kbergend on January 12, 2008, 07:59:05 PM
At my seat.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on January 12, 2008, 09:42:02 PM
I taped David Torn on the PMD620 tonight, line-in with Church Audio omnis and an ST-9100 pre-amp.  First recording with all of this gear; my only previous attempts were with Zoom H2 internals.  Everything worked flawlessly, and I think it turned out well (but only listened to it on crappy headphones).  I will try to post a sample tomorrow.

Very easy to use, little heat build-up (as per Don's question), and seemingly low noise...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on January 15, 2008, 06:21:47 PM
I taped David Torn on the PMD620 tonight, line-in with Church Audio omnis and an ST-9100 pre-amp.  First recording with all of this gear; my only previous attempts were with Zoom H2 internals.  Everything worked flawlessly, and I think it turned out well (but only listened to it on crappy headphones).  I will try to post a sample tomorrow.

Very easy to use, little heat build-up (as per Don's question), and seemingly low noise...

Here are two short samples; there may be a small gap between them (I did it fast and on the fly; the boss is rampaging this week and I am working like mad).  Recorded in 24 bit, 48 kHz.  No modifications to the raw files at all.  Need some level boost, but turned out pretty nicely, I think.  Beware: strange music follows!  If you don't like this sort of thing, you won't enjoy the samples!  Lineage:  Church STC-11 (omni caps) > ST-9100 > PMD620...

http://www.box.net/shared/igme5o42s8 (http://www.box.net/shared/igme5o42s8)

http://www.box.net/shared/u57ooelk4s (http://www.box.net/shared/u57ooelk4s)

As I mentioned in the preceding post, this is basically my first recording...Only a few with a Zoom H2 (internals) prior.  Turned out pretty well, I think.  Six rows back; dead center...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: HarpDoc on January 16, 2008, 02:01:43 AM
Nice job, Aaron. I appreciate all your contributions here, including the samples. You weren't kidding--that makes Zappa sound mainstream. If you (or anyone else with a 620) could ever record a set with an external preamp and a set running straight into the 620, it would be nice to hear a comparison. I thought the sample that was previously posted of mics straight into the 620 sounded pretty good.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rdvdijk on January 16, 2008, 02:03:24 AM

Here are two short samples; there may be a small gap between them (I did it fast and on the fly; the boss is rampaging this week and I am working like mad).  Recorded in 24 bit, 48 kHz.


Just lined these samples up in the multi-track editor in Audition, and they are seamless as far as I can tell. Nice!

Roel
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: seabrook on January 19, 2008, 06:16:02 PM
"As I mentioned in the preceding post, this is basically my first recording...Only a few with a Zoom H2 (internals) prior."

Aaronji, how does sound compare to your H2 (w/internals) recordings compare?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on January 19, 2008, 08:44:35 PM
"As I mentioned in the preceding post, this is basically my first recording...Only a few with a Zoom H2 (internals) prior."

Aaronji, how does sound compare to your H2 (w/internals) recordings compare?

The sound is incredibly better with the Church mics and pre and Marantz recorder!  Compared to the Zoom with internals, it is just a world of difference...Much clearer and cleaner sound with much more articulated low-end...


EDIT:  I will never use the Zoom again (with the internals), barring some sort of problem with the other gear...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: dogmusic on January 20, 2008, 09:04:16 AM

The sound is incredibly better with the Church mics and pre and Marantz recorder!  Compared to the Zoom with internals, it is just a world of difference...Much clearer and cleaner sound with much more articulated low-end...

EDIT:  I will never use the Zoom again (with the internals), barring some sort of problem with the other gear...


How does the Church mics and pre and Marantz recorder compare to the Church mics and pre and Zoom H2?

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: seabrook on January 20, 2008, 02:33:59 PM
How do the internal mics stack up?  And what's their peak SPL before distorting?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: kbergend on January 26, 2008, 03:46:19 PM
I used the PMD620 with a SoundPros mini-pre (SP-PREAMP-11) the past 2 nights and I'm pretty happy with the results.  I've uploaded a couple of 24-bit samples y'all can download and listen to.  Both of these were recorded from my seat, and the files are unedited except for the fades at the end.

Lori McKenna at the Allen Room in NYC.  AT943 cards (DIN, 20' from stage, 10' ROC) > SP mini-pre (+22dB gain) > PMD620 line-in @24/44.1 (input level at -16dB).

http://kbergend.tripod.com/lm2008-01-24samp.wav

Neko Case at Tarrytown Music Hall (much muddier acoustics).  AT943 cards (DIN, 25' from stage, DFC) > SP mini-pre (+22dB gain) > PMD620 line-in @24/44.1 (input level at -18dB).

http://kbergend.tripod.com/neko2008-01-25samp.wav

Makes for a nice little rig, and much better sounding to my ears than the MT1 line-in with the same mics and preamp.  A few pics of the PMD620 and mini-pre velcroed together:

http://kbergend.tripod.com/pmd620rig_front.jpg

http://kbergend.tripod.com/pmd620rig_back.jpg

http://kbergend.tripod.com/pmd620rig_top.jpg

(and unlike the giant used in the ads for Core Sound, I have pretty small hands  ;) )
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on January 27, 2008, 06:48:49 PM
I tried mic-in on the PMD620 the other night for Gare Du Nord at the Mezz in Breda (the Netherlands).  Not my favorite band, but my girlfriend likes it, so I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to experiment with mic-in.  Church Audio STC-11 (omni caps) > PMD620 (plug-in power, 24/48, attenuation -24 dB, levels at -10 dB).

The first set, I was in the back, near the bar, and there was a LOT of chatter and pushy people.  At one point, some drunk girl actually tapped one of my mics and said, "Wat is dit?" (What is this, in Dutch).  On the recording, you can quite clearly hear my irritated, "'Dit' is you fucking up my recording!!!"  That's not in the sample, although funny, as it is the worst part of the first set.

http://www.box.net/shared/yeqycgo0k4 (http://www.box.net/shared/yeqycgo0k4)

The second set sound is considerably improved, as I was able to move up front, between the soundboard and stage.  Still a bit of chatter, but much, much better.

http://www.box.net/shared/0x1jcf7i84 (http://www.box.net/shared/0x1jcf7i84)

I am pretty impressed, actually.  Not nearly as good as with the ST-9100 in the chain, but still pretty solid.  If I had to go minimal set-up, I would be more-or-less comfortable doing so.

EDIT:  +T for the photos, kbergend...That is a mighty small pre-amp.  My 9100 is a bit bigger, but still makes a compact set-up with the 620...

Also, I should point out that these samples are totally unedited.  As if you couldn't tell! :)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: darktrain on January 31, 2008, 11:07:44 AM
So In the manual it says it takes many different kinds of sd cards, Are there any that aren't good or will any class work?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on January 31, 2008, 11:37:05 AM
So In the manual it says it takes many different kinds of sd cards, Are there any that aren't good or will any class work?

I have tried six or seven different cards.  Sizes ranging from 256MB to 4GB.  Various ages (the oldest was from a digital camera I got rid of long ago), so probably a wide range of speeds and production methods.  From "SD Card" (literally; talk about no-name!) to Sandisk Ultra II.  Every single one worked with no problems.  Of course, that's no guarantee that any given card will work, but I think it will take a lot of the ones out there.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: JM Charcot on February 12, 2008, 10:56:36 AM
I used the PMD620 with a SoundPros mini-pre (SP-PREAMP-11) the past 2 nights and I'm pretty happy with the results.  I've uploaded a couple of 24-bit samples y'all can download and listen to.  Both of these were recorded from my seat, and the files are unedited except for the fades at the end.

Lori McKenna at the Allen Room in NYC.  AT943 cards (DIN, 20' from stage, 10' ROC) > SP mini-pre (+22dB gain) > PMD620 line-in @24/44.1 (input level at -16dB).

http://kbergend.tripod.com/lm2008-01-24samp.wav

Neko Case at Tarrytown Music Hall (much muddier acoustics).  AT943 cards (DIN, 25' from stage, DFC) > SP mini-pre (+22dB gain) > PMD620 line-in @24/44.1 (input level at -18dB).

http://kbergend.tripod.com/neko2008-01-25samp.wav

Makes for a nice little rig, and much better sounding to my ears than the MT1 line-in with the same mics and preamp.  A few pics of the PMD620 and mini-pre velcroed together:

http://kbergend.tripod.com/pmd620rig_front.jpg

http://kbergend.tripod.com/pmd620rig_back.jpg

http://kbergend.tripod.com/pmd620rig_top.jpg

(and unlike the giant used in the ads for Core Sound, I have pretty small hands  ;) )

Hello,

those are nice pics, it gives a good idea of the size.

Do you consider this preamp could be ok to record quiet natural sounds?
I'm looking for a small one to insert between the Marantz and an AT-822.

Thanks for the info,

JM.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: darktrain on February 21, 2008, 10:45:06 AM
First recording monday night at wilco with the 620 and sounds great, looking forward to the various "situations" this can run, especially running mic in with no BB here in the near future ;)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: kbergend on February 25, 2008, 01:41:59 PM
Ran my AT943 cards straight into the PMD620 mic in (no attenuation) for Grace Potter last week and was very happy with the results.  :)

http://www.archive.org/details/gpn2008-02-21.aud.flac16
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on February 25, 2008, 01:49:06 PM
Ran my AT943 cards straight into the PMD620 mic in (no attenuation) for Grace Potter last week and was very happy with the results.  :)

http://www.archive.org/details/gpn2008-02-21.aud.flac16
Hello. Just curious. Do you remember your set up (Rec Levels)?  Just asking because even with -24 db att I have pretty high levels in my PMD 620.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: kbergend on February 25, 2008, 09:42:13 PM
Ran my AT943 cards straight into the PMD620 mic in (no attenuation) for Grace Potter last week and was very happy with the results.  :)

http://www.archive.org/details/gpn2008-02-21.aud.flac16
Hello. Just curious. Do you remember your set up (Rec Levels)?  Just asking because even with -24 db att I have pretty high levels in my PMD 620.

I was just keeping an eye on the LEDs and not really watching the meters, but the levels are at -22dB now and I haven't recorded anything since, so I assume that's where they were set during the concert.  It was a reasonably loud show and I wound up peaking around -1dB, although Grace & co. weren't cranked up to nearly their typical SPLs (in which case I'm sure I would've needed the pad).
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on February 26, 2008, 09:14:50 AM
Ran my AT943 cards straight into the PMD620 mic in (no attenuation) for Grace Potter last week and was very happy with the results.  :)

http://www.archive.org/details/gpn2008-02-21.aud.flac16
Hello. Just curious. Do you remember your set up (Rec Levels)?  Just asking because even with -24 db att I have pretty high levels in my PMD 620.

I was just keeping an eye on the LEDs and not really watching the meters, but the levels are at -22dB now and I haven't recorded anything since, so I assume that's where they were set during the concert.  It was a reasonably loud show and I wound up peaking around -1dB, although Grace & co. weren't cranked up to nearly their typical SPLs (in which case I'm sure I would've needed the pad).

Thanks. At this time I'm only taping very loud shows. I'm using the -24db att preset. Even with this preset, I have to set my Rec Levels around -12db to -15db.

Take care ;)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: brado on February 28, 2008, 01:35:19 PM
Hallo,

I am new on this forum. I would like to buy the Marantz PMD 620. What do you think about it? Is there someone who know what's the quality of the new Olympus LS 10? Marantz vs. Olympus: who is the winner for the sound quality?

Is there a Marantz lab test? I've seen on these pages the test for the dynamic range. Very interesting! Thank you. When appaer the full review with more testing to verify frequency response and other matters?

Thanks and bye

Brado
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: jeromejello on March 01, 2008, 02:02:55 AM
a few questions about the 620...

i.  does the 620 still have a non-seamless transition between tracks while recording, or has that been addressed with firmware?

ii.  are there actual meters, even if you navigate to another screen, similar to the r-09?  regardless, can someone show me what the metering looks like with a photo.

iii.  i see that there is a jack for a remote.  i havent heard anything about this.  what is the cost, what does it look like, is it even available?

thanks!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: jeromejello on March 01, 2008, 02:30:15 AM
i have jumped the gun... :P

here are the answers (and pictures) for questions 2 & 3 in case anyone else had the same questions... i would still like to have a confirmation of #1.

the meters look like this:

(http://www.transom.org/tools/recording_interviewing/200712_marantz_620/graphics/Marantz620-Meters.jpg)

and they toggle with a button press that goes between the time elapsed (or left, not sure) and the picture above.

the remote (RC 600) looks like this:

(http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/yhst-64364167349759_1981_648099)

it retails for $89.00 and it has limited functions (record, pause, mark) with a 5 foot cable and a tri-colored led that shows record status and peak levels.  it can also be used with the 660 and 671.

here is a pdf spec sheet:
http://www.d-mpro.com/users/getdownload.asp?DownloadID=302

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: bsorocks on March 01, 2008, 08:13:40 PM
Anyone know if the 620 is compatible with OS X?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on March 02, 2008, 05:51:55 PM
Anyone know if the 620 is compatible with OS X?

Yes it is.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: suini on March 07, 2008, 12:13:37 PM
 2 questions to owners please:

1.Is there any loop or repeat function (in playlist mode maybe) and
2.does it support direct monitoring?

Thanks

s
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: bgalizio on March 07, 2008, 02:24:06 PM
Has anyone compared the ADC of this to the Edirol R-09 (line in)?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: suini on March 10, 2008, 06:23:52 AM
 2 questions to owners please:

1.Is there any loop or repeat function (in playlist mode maybe) and
2.does it support direct monitoring?

Well since nobody answered I contact marantz pro tech support and here is the answer:

Thank you for your question as far as I am aware both functions are
available on the PMD620
 
Kind regards,
Roel
Roel van Gestel
Technical Support Manager


...but I'm not convinced since there is nothing in the manual and whats that " as far as I am aware".
Its a funny answer isn't it?

respect
s
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on March 10, 2008, 07:31:47 AM
I think this was asked in another thread, and I also found nothing but a cut and past to new file feature, but no manual mention of repeat.  Sold my modified (MOD-3) PMD-620, so no chance here to see if a 'repeat mode' is indeed buried somewhere.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on March 11, 2008, 03:34:38 AM
There is a new firmware update for the PMD620 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview)).  The only description I see is, "Enhances performance & accelerates processing."  Thanks for that expansive explanation!  I am at work, so I can't install it til tonight...Curious what it does! :)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: JM Charcot on March 11, 2008, 07:18:48 AM
1.Is there any loop or repeat function (in playlist mode maybe) and

Thanks

s


For your first question you have a "skip back" button, but that's not exactly a looper, I don't think you have a loop function on the recorder.

JM.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on March 11, 2008, 03:52:43 PM
There is a new firmware update for the PMD620 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview)).  The only description I see is, "Enhances performance & accelerates processing."  Thanks for that expansive explanation!  I am at work, so I can't install it til tonight...Curious what it does! :)
let me know if you succeeded in updating your firmware ;).
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on March 11, 2008, 04:04:20 PM
There is a new firmware update for the PMD620 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview)).  The only description I see is, "Enhances performance & accelerates processing."  Thanks for that expansive explanation!  I am at work, so I can't install it til tonight...Curious what it does! :)
let me know if you succeeded in updating your firmware ;).


Do you know anything about the possible benefits of this update?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on March 11, 2008, 06:55:34 PM
There is a new firmware update for the PMD620 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview)).  The only description I see is, "Enhances performance & accelerates processing."  Thanks for that expansive explanation!  I am at work, so I can't install it til tonight...Curious what it does! :)
let me know if you succeeded in updating your firmware ;).


Do you know anything about the possible benefits of this update?

Well, the upgrade went smoothly.  No problems and it worked on the first try.  But I can't see any difference in the menus or anything.  Except that it now says "2.03" instead of "1.00" under firmware version. :)

Maybe they did something to streamline the codec?  I sent a mail to D & M Tech Services asking where I could find out what the improvements are.  I'll let you know if they answer me!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on March 12, 2008, 09:15:44 AM
There is a new firmware update for the PMD620 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=4313&Tab=Overview)).  The only description I see is, "Enhances performance & accelerates processing."  Thanks for that expansive explanation!  I am at work, so I can't install it til tonight...Curious what it does! :)
let me know if you succeeded in updating your firmware ;).


Do you know anything about the possible benefits of this update?

Well, the upgrade went smoothly.  No problems and it worked on the first try.  But I can't see any difference in the menus or anything.  Except that it now says "2.03" instead of "1.00" under firmware version. :)

Maybe they did something to streamline the codec?  I sent a mail to D & M Tech Services asking where I could find out what the improvements are.  I'll let you know if they answer me!

Thanks Aaronji.
That's a new one: a secret improvement ;D.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on March 12, 2008, 10:33:53 AM
My PMD620 died during the update showing status "complete" but didn´t restart automatically as supposed to.
Now I can´t turn on the unit anymore.
Glad I still have my Sony MZ-RH1 HI-MD recorder as 2nd substitute.

 ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on March 12, 2008, 10:38:36 AM
My PMD620 died during the update showing status "complete" but didn´t restart automatically as supposed to.
Now I can´t turn on the unit anymore.
Glad I still have my Sony MZ-RH1 HI-MD recorder as 2nd substitute.

 ;D

Arni,

Sorry to hear that :'(.
But, hey, you can always have mine. Check the Yard Sale ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: JM Charcot on March 12, 2008, 10:50:45 AM
My PMD620 died during the update showing status "complete" but didn´t restart automatically as supposed to.
Now I can´t turn on the unit anymore.
Glad I still have my Sony MZ-RH1 HI-MD recorder as 2nd substitute.

 ;D

Can you get an exchange under warranty when upgrading the firmware?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on March 12, 2008, 12:09:11 PM
Do you know anything about the possible benefits of this update?

So I got a response from Marantz about the new firmware:

Quote from: D & M Pro Tech Support
Hello Aaron,

Thanks for your message.

The PMD620 firmware update improved processing and lowered the headphone delay at the headphone output when monitoring the recording.

Best regards,

Technical Support

D&M Professional
(Denon & Marantz Professional)
(630) 741-0330
www.d-mpro.com
www.denondj.com

They have resolved the latency in monitoring issue (which wasn't a concern for me anyway).  This may be my imagination, but I think the internals sound a bit better now too (I was screwing around with it a little last night; never plugged in the externals, though).

Arni:  Sorry to hear that.  You were using the AC adapter?  Mine didn't restart either, at least to my knowledge, but everything works fine.  Did you try taking out the batteries and card and then replacing them?  Maybe that helps?  You should definitely contact them:  techsupport@d-mpro.com.  They have answered me within 24 hours both times I e-mailed them.  I am sure this is their responsibility to fix...

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on March 12, 2008, 01:35:07 PM
Do you know anything about the possible benefits of this update?

So I got a response from Marantz about the new firmware:

Quote from: D & M Pro Tech Support
Hello Aaron,

Thanks for your message.

The PMD620 firmware update improved processing and lowered the headphone delay at the headphone output when monitoring the recording.

Best regards,

Technical Support

D&M Professional
(Denon & Marantz Professional)
(630) 741-0330
www.d-mpro.com
www.denondj.com

They have resolved the latency in monitoring issue (which wasn't a concern for me anyway).  This may be my imagination, but I think the internals sound a bit better now too (I was screwing around with it a little last night; never plugged in the externals, though).

Arni:  Sorry to hear that.  You were using the AC adapter?  Mine didn't restart either, at least to my knowledge, but everything works fine.  Did you try taking out the batteries and card and then replacing them?  Maybe that helps?  You should definitely contact them:  techsupport@d-mpro.com.  They have answered me within 24 hours both times I e-mailed them.  I am sure this is their responsibility to fix...



Thanks, Aaronji.
One thing that makes me wonder is the fact that
my R-09 file transfer ( to my computer) is way,way,way faster than my PMD 620's.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on March 12, 2008, 02:21:25 PM
My PMD620 died during the update showing status "complete" but didn´t restart automatically as supposed to.
Now I can´t turn on the unit anymore.
Glad I still have my Sony MZ-RH1 HI-MD recorder as 2nd substitute.

 ;D

Arni,

Sorry to hear that :'(.
But, hey, you can always have mine. Check the Yard Sale ;D ;D ;D
no thanks  ;D I´ll have mine repaired.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: boojum on March 12, 2008, 03:06:52 PM
My PMD620 died during the update showing status "complete" but didn´t restart automatically as supposed to.
Now I can´t turn on the unit anymore.
Glad I still have my Sony MZ-RH1 HI-MD recorder as 2nd substitute.

 ;D

Arni,

Sorry to hear that :'(.
But, hey, you can always have mine. Check the Yard Sale ;D ;D ;D
no thanks  ;D I´ll have mine repaired.


Funny how those derided and dissed little MD's come to the rescue, huh?   8)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on March 12, 2008, 07:45:17 PM
One thing that makes me wonder is the fact that my R-09 file transfer ( to my computer) is way,way,way faster than my PMD 620's.

I think you must have a defective unit.  In my experience, the transfer speeds are pretty similar.  And both are USB 2.0.  I think you should contact Marantz customer service to see if there may be some issue with your recorder. 

At any rate, a card reader is an improvement over eithers' USB transfer. :)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on March 12, 2008, 08:19:46 PM
One thing that makes me wonder is the fact that my R-09 file transfer ( to my computer) is way,way,way faster than my PMD 620's.

I think you must have a defective unit.  In my experience, the transfer speeds are pretty similar.  And both are USB 2.0.  I think you should contact Marantz customer service to see if there may be some issue with your recorder. 

At any rate, a card reader is an improvement over eithers' USB transfer. :)

Well, I don't think so. Two friends of mine told me that the same happens to their R-09 and PMD 620. It's not big deal really. Both units are really good, but they are diferent. That's the beauty of life. ;)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on March 13, 2008, 05:52:34 AM
Yes, I used AC-power during the upgrade procedure and I removed battery and the SD-card but nothing helped....it´s dead....
"Shit happens"  ::)
Anyway......let´s go RH1-taping in April 2008  ;D ..my RH1 survived ALL my recent recorders HAHA.

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: kbergend on March 13, 2008, 10:11:02 AM
Thanks for the info!  My firmware upgraded with no problems.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on March 13, 2008, 01:03:27 PM
Maybe I'm wrong, but giving "-T" is like a hobby for some folks ::). Man, I'm always nice and respectfull at all times. Even with little knowledge, I try to help and inform less educated members. Still, minus two T this morning ???.
Wouldn't be easy to say "hey, friend, I didn't like what you said" or something like that?
I know this has nothing to do with this particular topic. Sorry about that. ;)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: paulbaptiste on March 13, 2008, 02:27:34 PM
^ +T for your great offer on the 620 in the yard sale  ( there was a thread going on about the +/- T's in the open forum, but be careful, i lost a few just posting in it, don't sweat it, i 4 one have never seen anything rude or unnecessary in your posts) ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: professorhalfbaked on March 13, 2008, 03:01:06 PM
Thanks for the info!  My firmware upgraded with no problems.

Mine installed with no problem too.  But I was sweating it a bit after reading Arni's post!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on March 13, 2008, 03:34:24 PM
^ +T for your great offer on the 620 in the yard sale  ( there was a thread going on about the +/- T's in the open forum, but be careful, i lost a few just posting in it, don't sweat it, i 4 one have never seen anything rude or unnecessary in your posts) ;D

Thanks a lot, friend.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: bubba5916 on March 14, 2008, 12:43:10 AM
Have had one of these for just a few days.  Previously used a Sony D8 dat with core sound binaurals w/battery box - bass roll off.  The internal mics are very sensitive and will try the attenuation settings.  I'd like to get it working with the core sounds too though.  Levels are way too low when plugged into the mic in at 00 db gain and 00 db attenuation.  Saw someone mention a built in preamp but don't see a reference to that in the manual and don't see a reference to it in the menus.  So are they accessed automatically? Can I set it? 

Otherwise do I need to get an external preamp or new mics?  Stealthy recommendations?

Thx
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on March 14, 2008, 05:26:11 AM
Have had one of these for just a few days.  Previously used a Sony D8 dat with core sound binaurals w/battery box - bass roll off.  The internal mics are very sensitive and will try the attenuation settings.  I'd like to get it working with the core sounds too though.  Levels are way too low when plugged into the mic in at 00 db gain and 00 db attenuation.  Saw someone mention a built in preamp but don't see a reference to that in the manual and don't see a reference to it in the menus.  So are they accessed automatically? Can I set it? 

Otherwise do I need to get an external preamp or new mics?  Stealthy recommendations?

Thx

I am sorry if I am asking the obvious, but did you use the battery box between the mics and the recorder?  If not, did you turn on the plug-in power from one of the pre-set menus (see page 52 in the manual, http://www.d-mpro.com/users/getdownload.asp?DownloadID=398 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/getdownload.asp?DownloadID=398))?  The default setting in all three pre-sets is "off".  If so, did you check to make sure the battery was fresh?

I have used some small electret mics (Church Audio STC-11's) directly into mic-in for a couple of shows and the results were pretty good (better than expected).  Levels were definitely high enough with the -24 dB attenuation setting and gain in the neighborhood of -10 or -12 dB.  The Core Sound binaurals should also work, I think.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on March 14, 2008, 05:33:57 AM
Thanks for the info!  My firmware upgraded with no problems.

Mine installed with no problem too.  But I was sweating it a bit after reading Arni's post!

I am so relieved to hear that this worked for you guys!  I have been feeling kind of guilty about posting the upgrade ever since I read about Arni's troubles.  Seems like an isolated problem, though.  Of course, that conclusion is based on limited data, but we are 3 out of 4 4 out of 5 so far. :)

EDIT TO ADD: Additional data point after JM's post below.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: JM Charcot on March 14, 2008, 05:43:42 AM
Firmware upgraded without problem.

Thanks for the info!

JM.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: bubba5916 on March 14, 2008, 12:37:11 PM
Have had one of these for just a few days.  Previously used a Sony D8 dat with core sound binaurals w/battery box - bass roll off.  The internal mics are very sensitive and will try the attenuation settings.  I'd like to get it working with the core sounds too though.  Levels are way too low when plugged into the mic in at 00 db gain and 00 db attenuation.  Saw someone mention a built in preamp but don't see a reference to that in the manual and don't see a reference to it in the menus.  So are they accessed automatically? Can I set it? 

Otherwise do I need to get an external preamp or new mics?  Stealthy recommendations?

Thx

I am sorry if I am asking the obvious, but did you use the battery box between the mics and the recorder?  If not, did you turn on the plug-in power from one of the pre-set menus (see page 52 in the manual, http://www.d-mpro.com/users/getdownload.asp?DownloadID=398 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/getdownload.asp?DownloadID=398))?  The default setting in all three pre-sets is "off".  If so, did you check to make sure the battery was fresh?

I have used some small electret mics (Church Audio STC-11's) directly into mic-in for a couple of shows and the results were pretty good (better than expected).  Levels were definitely high enough with the -24 dB attenuation setting and gain in the neighborhood of -10 or -12 dB.  The Core Sound binaurals should also work, I think.

I did try it with and without the battery box and with/without the mic power on.  Just put in a new battery into the box so will give that a try later.  Do the Church mics need a battery box or ext pre?  We record anything from an acoustic folk show to loud arena rock.  Looks like you got decent levels and even had to go -24db att.  I tested the CSBs with a local bar band last weekend and couldn't get levels more than ~-20db at 0 attenuation (high sensitivity).  Was I brickwalling?  Maybe I should've had it at -24 db. Don't hear any clipping though.   
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: kbergend on March 14, 2008, 12:52:53 PM
Have had one of these for just a few days.  Previously used a Sony D8 dat with core sound binaurals w/battery box - bass roll off.  The internal mics are very sensitive and will try the attenuation settings.  I'd like to get it working with the core sounds too though.  Levels are way too low when plugged into the mic in at 00 db gain and 00 db attenuation.  Saw someone mention a built in preamp but don't see a reference to that in the manual and don't see a reference to it in the menus.  So are they accessed automatically? Can I set it? 

Otherwise do I need to get an external preamp or new mics?  Stealthy recommendations?

Thx
The built-in preamp is automatically engaged when you use the mic in jack, like with most recorders.  I haven't had any problems getting a good (-6dB) level with no attenuation using AT943s plugged directly into it with mic power enabled, even at acoustic shows.  Maybe your Core mics are exceptionally low sensitivity, or it's possible you got a defective recorder.  I would test it with another pair of electret mics.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: bubba5916 on March 14, 2008, 04:49:51 PM
Have had one of these for just a few days.  Previously used a Sony D8 dat with core sound binaurals w/battery box - bass roll off.  The internal mics are very sensitive and will try the attenuation settings.  I'd like to get it working with the core sounds too though.  Levels are way too low when plugged into the mic in at 00 db gain and 00 db attenuation.  Saw someone mention a built in preamp but don't see a reference to that in the manual and don't see a reference to it in the menus.  So are they accessed automatically? Can I set it? 

Otherwise do I need to get an external preamp or new mics?  Stealthy recommendations?

Thx

I am sorry if I am asking the obvious, but did you use the battery box between the mics and the recorder?  If not, did you turn on the plug-in power from one of the pre-set menus (see page 52 in the manual, http://www.d-mpro.com/users/getdownload.asp?DownloadID=398 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/getdownload.asp?DownloadID=398))?  The default setting in all three pre-sets is "off".  If so, did you check to make sure the battery was fresh?

I have used some small electret mics (Church Audio STC-11's) directly into mic-in for a couple of shows and the results were pretty good (better than expected).  Levels were definitely high enough with the -24 dB attenuation setting and gain in the neighborhood of -10 or -12 dB.  The Core Sound binaurals should also work, I think.

I did try it with and without the battery box and with/without the mic power on.  Just put in a new battery into the box so will give that a try later.  Do the Church mics need a battery box or ext pre?  We record anything from an acoustic folk show to loud arena rock.  Looks like you got decent levels and even had to go -24db att.  I tested the CSBs with a local bar band last weekend and couldn't get levels more than ~-20db at 0 attenuation (high sensitivity).  Was I brickwalling?  Maybe I should've had it at -24 db. Don't hear any clipping though.   

I changed the battery in the bbox.  Took everything out to the car at lunchtime (I'm on the West coast) and did some testing.  Levels are MUCH better now.  So now the bbox has a sticker on it w/today's date on it  ;)  Did notice that the internal mics sound brighter than the external ones.  Is that typical? Not sure if that's a good or bad thing at this point.  Gotta play my sound samples on something other than earbuds.    Thanks folks!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on March 14, 2008, 05:17:24 PM
Have had one of these for just a few days.  Previously used a Sony D8 dat with core sound binaurals w/battery box - bass roll off.  The internal mics are very sensitive and will try the attenuation settings.  I'd like to get it working with the core sounds too though.  Levels are way too low when plugged into the mic in at 00 db gain and 00 db attenuation.  Saw someone mention a built in preamp but don't see a reference to that in the manual and don't see a reference to it in the menus.  So are they accessed automatically? Can I set it? 

Otherwise do I need to get an external preamp or new mics?  Stealthy recommendations?

Thx

I am sorry if I am asking the obvious, but did you use the battery box between the mics and the recorder?  If not, did you turn on the plug-in power from one of the pre-set menus (see page 52 in the manual, http://www.d-mpro.com/users/getdownload.asp?DownloadID=398 (http://www.d-mpro.com/users/getdownload.asp?DownloadID=398))?  The default setting in all three pre-sets is "off".  If so, did you check to make sure the battery was fresh?

I have used some small electret mics (Church Audio STC-11's) directly into mic-in for a couple of shows and the results were pretty good (better than expected).  Levels were definitely high enough with the -24 dB attenuation setting and gain in the neighborhood of -10 or -12 dB.  The Core Sound binaurals should also work, I think.

I did try it with and without the battery box and with/without the mic power on.  Just put in a new battery into the box so will give that a try later.  Do the Church mics need a battery box or ext pre?  We record anything from an acoustic folk show to loud arena rock.  Looks like you got decent levels and even had to go -24db att.  I tested the CSBs with a local bar band last weekend and couldn't get levels more than ~-20db at 0 attenuation (high sensitivity).  Was I brickwalling?  Maybe I should've had it at -24 db. Don't hear any clipping though.   

I changed the battery in the bbox.  Took everything out to the car at lunchtime (I'm on the West coast) and did some testing.  Levels are MUCH better now.  So now the bbox has a sticker on it w/today's date on it  ;)  Did notice that the internal mics sound brighter than the external ones.  Is that typical? Not sure if that's a good or bad thing at this point.  Gotta play my sound samples on something other than earbuds.    Thanks folks!


Internal mics are no exactly the strongest feature of the PMD 620 ( or any other hand held recorder as as far as I'm concerned). Your external mics will always sound better. So it's not a good thing/bad thing issue. Hope that helps ;) Enjoy your gear.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: seabrook on March 16, 2008, 04:19:34 PM
Firmware updated for me.  BTW, I first tried a 16 MB SD card which only allows for a FAT file system.  No dice.  I then switched to a 1 GB card, formated with a FAT32 file system and tried again with success.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: efksound on April 04, 2008, 04:09:10 AM
Hi everyone

My first post! Just got my PMD620 (It's was a hard time to come up with a choice :)) The PMD620 came with 1.xx firmware and just updated to 2.34 without any problems. Now the anoying latency on the headphones is gone !
Now I'm doing test recording and playing with the machine. I'm mainly going to go LINE IN, but i've noticed that when you have no signal coming, the meters on the PMD always mark around -50dB, even if you lower down the rec level to MUTE it's still marking something around -60dB, Is this the unit's self noise? Can someone else with PMD620 confirm that his unit his doing the same thing? It would be nice to know if this is normal or it's my unit that's defective.

thanks a lot!

Eric
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Keyser Soze on April 04, 2008, 01:12:05 PM
There's a noise performance chart on the 620 in this link, along with some other units:
http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,97231.msg1333626.html#msg1333626

I haven't actually used a 620, but from what I've read its' noise floor is a bit lower than the R09.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on April 04, 2008, 01:57:45 PM
I'm mainly going to go LINE IN, but i've noticed that when you have no signal coming, the meters on the PMD always mark around -50dB, even if you lower down the rec level to MUTE it's still marking something around -60dB, Is this the unit's self noise? Can someone else with PMD620 confirm that his unit his doing the same thing? It would be nice to know if this is normal or it's my unit that's defective.

Mine does this too.  I don't think it is a problem, as I have used it quite a bit already with no troubles.  Or, at least, no troubles I didn't cause myself!

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on April 04, 2008, 02:14:48 PM
I'm mainly going to go LINE IN, but i've noticed that when you have no signal coming, the meters on the PMD always mark around -50dB, even if you lower down the rec level to MUTE it's still marking something around -60dB, Is this the unit's self noise? Can someone else with PMD620 confirm that his unit his doing the same thing? It would be nice to know if this is normal or it's my unit that's defective.

Mine does this too.  I don't think it is a problem, as I have used it quite a bit already with no troubles.  Or, at least, no troubles I didn't cause myself!


I guess it´s the "noise" of the room you are in which causes the -60db.

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: efksound on April 04, 2008, 02:46:33 PM
Hi

How can it be the room since I'm going line in? I'm not using any microphone

I've done some more tests:

1. Choosing line in the preset menu without connecting anything in the line in jack and putting the machine into rec-pause already gives me this -50dB reading in the meters.

2. Tapping with my fingers a bit hard in the internal mics gives me some meter activity as if the internal mics were actually not 100% disabled.

Any one else with a PMD620 experiencing this ?

 
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on April 04, 2008, 03:18:24 PM
Hi

How can it be the room since I'm going line in? I'm not using any microphone

I've done some more tests:

1. Choosing line in the preset menu without connecting anything in the line in jack and putting the machine into rec-pause already gives me this -50dB reading in the meters.

2. Tapping with my fingers a bit hard in the internal mics gives me some meter activity as if the internal mics were actually not 100% disabled.

Any one else with a PMD620 experiencing this ?

 

Mine does that too.
I've been informed by Marantz that this is perfectly normal, nothing to worry about ;)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on April 04, 2008, 03:26:51 PM
1. Choosing line in the preset menu without connecting anything in the line in jack and putting the machine into rec-pause already gives me this -50dB reading in the meters.

I think the -50 dB is likely just the bottom of the range the meter measures.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: efksound on April 04, 2008, 03:34:11 PM
1. Choosing line in the preset menu without connecting anything in the line in jack and putting the machine into rec-pause already gives me this -50dB reading in the meters.

I think the -50 dB is likely just the bottom of the range the meter measures.


the PMD620 meters go a bit below - 60dB
Mmm... Even if Marantz says it's normal I think it's a bit too much
Does the R-09 or R-09 HR behave the same way ?

thanks for the answers
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on April 04, 2008, 04:10:47 PM
1. Choosing line in the preset menu without connecting anything in the line in jack and putting the machine into rec-pause already gives me this -50dB reading in the meters.

I think the -50 dB is likely just the bottom of the range the meter measures.


the PMD620 meters go a bit below - 60dB
Mmm... Even if Marantz says it's normal I think it's a bit too much
Does the R-09 or R-09 HR behave the same way ?

thanks for the answers

No. The R-09 levels stays very quiet. Bu appreciate the fact that the R-09 only goes to -40 if I remember right.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Keyser Soze on April 04, 2008, 05:06:14 PM
I'm really surprised this little unit didn't take off more, from everything I've read it sounds like it's a really nice little recorder for all the stealth'rs out there.  I guess people just decided to keep their R09s, since those were already paid for.  *shrug*
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on April 04, 2008, 08:59:09 PM
1. Choosing line in the preset menu without connecting anything in the line in jack and putting the machine into rec-pause already gives me this -50dB reading in the meters.

I think the -50 dB is likely just the bottom of the range the meter measures.


the PMD620 meters go a bit below - 60dB
Mmm... Even if Marantz says it's normal I think it's a bit too much
Does the R-09 or R-09 HR behave the same way ?

thanks for the answers

No. The R-09 levels stays very quiet. Bu appreciate the fact that the R-09 only goes to -40 if I remember right.

For what it's worth, my Zoom H2 has a lower limit of -48 dB.  According to Dede2002, the R09 has a lower limit of -40 dB.  The 620 goes down to -50 dB.  All are pretty well in the same ballpark, so I don't see what the problem is.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on April 04, 2008, 10:40:34 PM
1. Choosing line in the preset menu without connecting anything in the line in jack and putting the machine into rec-pause already gives me this -50dB reading in the meters.

I think the -50 dB is likely just the bottom of the range the meter measures.


the PMD620 meters go a bit below - 60dB
Mmm... Even if Marantz says it's normal I think it's a bit too much
Does the R-09 or R-09 HR behave the same way ?

thanks for the answers

No. The R-09 levels stays very quiet. Bu appreciate the fact that the R-09 only goes to -40 if I remember right.

For what it's worth, my Zoom H2 has a lower limit of -48 dB.  According to Dede2002, the R09 has a lower limit of -40 dB.  The 620 goes down to -50 dB.  All are pretty well in the same ballpark, so I don't see what the problem is.

Now I'm at home and can be more precise: the R-09 has lower limit of -45db, not -40db like a said before.
But the 620 goes down to -60 actually, not -50db.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: efksound on April 05, 2008, 04:51:03 AM
Aaronji my post was not a question regarding how low are the recording meters on the -dB recording scale on all the different recorders.
I just wanted to ask if on the PMD620 when you configure it to use line in and press rec/pause I see some signal coming in between -60dB and -50dB. I experience this :
1. if I don't have anything connected in the line in
2. and with a cable connected but no signal passing

So I'm just wondering if this is normal or not. If this is the normal noise floor on the PMD620 while using line in I find it high...I'm sure my 1990 old DAT TCD-D3 had a better S/N ratio :)

(http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/48/p1030032oc7.th.jpg) (http://img245.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p1030032oc7.jpg)

Also the function 08-Silent Skip on the preset options which allows you to pause the recording when silence is detected, only works with the  -20db or -38db settings, if I try to set it at -54db or -60db the recording never pauses, because of this self noise using the line in.

Can someone try and see if this happens too?

Thanks
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on April 06, 2008, 04:17:35 AM


So I'm just wondering if this is normal or not. If this is the normal noise floor on the PMD620 while using line in I find it high...I'm sure my 1990 old DAT TCD-D3 had a better S/N ratio :)

The 620 measured to have a lot of low frequency (not so audible) noise that could visibly rattle the VU's noticeably.

In retro-perspect, all those Sony DAT decks cost at least two times more and weren't designed as done today with current 1-chip CODEC IC wonders by disassociated (mis-managed) engineering groups scattered all over the globe. 

It does seem that these products are being patched together without anyone looking back at what is actually working as expected or not, letting the trusting customers discover all those loose threads in the hardware and software.

No, those were the days when a single team of designers and closely monitored production staff were held accountable by one or two project managers for 'crossing their technical T's and dotting their I's' to refine a product's as shipped quality now seems gone as we experience the new world 'global' way of doing business.  Prices are dropping, profits are way up, and quality is fading fast.   

I've heard even Nagra has embraced the single CODEC IC recorder craze and has produced a real piece of crap for the first time.

Lately the only real quality seems the descriptive words in marketing ads that after purchase are found  fictitious seeming more hype than anything else.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: hydrobud on April 06, 2008, 11:12:09 AM
(http://www.funphotoart.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/pun159-quality-control-sticker10.gif)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: TheGame on April 06, 2008, 05:34:43 PM
Im new in this game, but im the process of getting myself a taping gear. My first taping would be Def Leppard in May which will be outdoors. However, I will mostly use it indoors.
This pmd 620 seems quite neat, but i wonder how big this issue regarding gain levels are. Im thinking of using this along with a bb and church ca-11 mics. Since the recorder is less sensitive, would there be problems getting good levels without a pre-amp? I hoped to avoid the pre-amp since the use would be "loud" music ( rock aka Queen+PR ,def leppard), but perhaps this will be difficult without a pre-amp with this recorder. Any thoughts or suggestions for a newbie?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on April 07, 2008, 03:05:29 AM
Im new in this game, but im the process of getting myself a taping gear. My first taping would be Def Leppard in May which will be outdoors. However, I will mostly use it indoors.
This pmd 620 seems quite neat, but i wonder how big this issue regarding gain levels are. Im thinking of using this along with a bb and church ca-11 mics. Since the recorder is less sensitive, would there be problems getting good levels without a pre-amp? I hoped to avoid the pre-amp since the use would be "loud" music ( rock aka Queen+PR ,def leppard), but perhaps this will be difficult without a pre-amp with this recorder. Any thoughts or suggestions for a newbie?


DEFINITELY will work fine for recording anything amplified (deck mic input likely set at -12/-24 dB) without needing additional ext. preamp gain.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on April 08, 2008, 09:15:20 AM
Im new in this game, but im the process of getting myself a taping gear. My first taping would be Def Leppard in May which will be outdoors. However, I will mostly use it indoors.
This pmd 620 seems quite neat, but i wonder how big this issue regarding gain levels are. Im thinking of using this along with a bb and church ca-11 mics. Since the recorder is less sensitive, would there be problems getting good levels without a pre-amp? I hoped to avoid the pre-amp since the use would be "loud" music ( rock aka Queen+PR ,def leppard), but perhaps this will be difficult without a pre-amp with this recorder. Any thoughts or suggestions for a newbie?


DEFINITELY will work fine for recording anything amplified (deck mic input likely set at -12/-24 dB) without needing additional ext. preamp gain.

I agree that with the STC-11's and mic-in, you should be OK in virtually any situation.  I have tried this in a variety of settings (from acoustic jazz trios to loud rock) and haven't experienced any problems.

If you are running line-in for quieter shows, though, you might want to consider a pre.  I just taped John Scofield on Saturday night (STC-11 > ST-9100 > PMD620); it was moderately loud (but quiet by arena rock standards), and I needed about 10 dB gain from my pre.  The recorder was set at -12 dB, so I guess that would have covered the gain from the pre, but anything quieter might have been a problem.

I would post that Sco tape, by the way (turned out great), but it is my understanding that he allows unobtrusive taping but no posting?  Anyone have a better idea about this? (Sorry to veer off-topic) :)
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: TheGame on April 08, 2008, 12:31:45 PM
Thanks for the answer.
I will only go line in i guess, so i think im getting problems with some songs without a pre-amp ( the more quiet ones). I think the Edirol is better suited for my use then (because of better sensitivity), or should i just give the more roboust pmd620 a go.....
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on April 08, 2008, 05:40:45 PM
Thanks for the answer.
I will only go line in i guess, so i think im getting problems with some songs without a pre-amp ( the more quiet ones). I think the Edirol is better suited for my use then (because of better sensitivity), or should i just give the more roboust pmd620 a go.....

In my opinion, you'll be OK with either for the sorts of bands (Queen, Def Leppard) that you mentioned.  But if you anticipate recording a lot of quiet stuff (like piano jazz trio or something), get a pre if you go with the Marantz (or go mic-in).

Have you seen the R09HR thread(http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,100541.0.html (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,100541.0.html))?  It could be worth waiting a month or two, if you are not in a rush.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Arni99 on April 16, 2008, 01:34:19 AM
My firmware-upgrade-damaged PMD620 is history as I got mail yesterday telling me NO WARRANTY covers the damage BUT I could get a new mainboard etc. for 388 € HAHAHAHAHAH!
A new PMD620 costs 349 € here in Europe..........

Well..... I use my 2 rockboxed irivers which do a great job and are the most easiest gear to tape with using "safety-clip".
 ;D
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: Dede2002 on April 16, 2008, 08:21:03 AM
My firmware-upgrade-damaged PMD620 is history as I got mail yesterday telling me NO WARRANTY covers the damage BUT I could get a new mainboard etc. for 388 € HAHAHAHAHAH!
A new PMD620 costs 349 € here in Europe..........

Well..... I use my 2 rockboxed irivers which do a great job and are the most easiest gear to tape with using "safety-clip".
 ;D

Seriously, this is absurd. :o
Sorry to hear that, friend.
+T
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: guysonic on April 17, 2008, 09:11:14 AM
My firmware-upgrade-damaged PMD620 is history as I got mail yesterday telling me NO WARRANTY covers the damage BUT I could get a new mainboard etc. for 388 € HAHAHAHAHAH!
A new PMD620 costs 349 € here in Europe..........

Well..... I use my 2 rockboxed irivers which do a great job and are the most easiest gear to tape with using "safety-clip".
 ;D

Seriously, this is absurd. :o
Sorry to hear that, friend.
+T

I AGREE! 

Fact is, unless specifically checked out by Marantz repair service to be "user's abuse not covered in warranty, the electronic circuit mechanisms for reprogramming the deck's firmware that are INSIDE your deck seem defective, and this should be fully covered by terms of the warranty.

I would get back to Marantz and remind them of their responsibility to cover defects in workmanship!
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: aaronji on April 18, 2008, 08:23:58 AM
I would get back to Marantz and remind them of their responsibility to cover defects in workmanship!

Agreed!  You should harass them until they either fix it or give you your money back.  I would call, and if the person you speak with can't help, ask for their supervisor.  Maybe more effective than e-mail.  I think this is just scandalous. 

Did they give you any reasons why they think this was your fault and not theirs?

Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: darktrain on June 12, 2008, 01:55:15 AM
Finally tried the 620 out using just mic in(-12 att) with my hlsc's(4.7k mod) at iron maiden tonight(i have only used line in till tonight), show was very loud and the recording came out very nice, so i would say no need fo pre or battery box at louder type shows, you might want to use the pre in quieter shows though.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: dactylus on March 12, 2018, 12:41:01 PM


...reference...
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: gormenghast on March 12, 2018, 01:11:53 PM


...reference...

Thanks!

I was gonna list off a few things but I'll give this a good read first. 
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: heathen on March 19, 2019, 02:52:59 PM
So there's a 620 and a 620MKII.  Which is confirmed to provide ~5V of plug in power?  Or is it both?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: goodcooker on March 19, 2019, 05:36:32 PM
So there's a 620 and a 620MKII.  Which is confirmed to provide ~5V of plug in power?  Or is it both?

I have an original version and it measures 4.8V on the mic input.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: heathen on March 19, 2019, 05:51:00 PM
So there's a 620 and a 620MKII.  Which is confirmed to provide ~5V of plug in power?  Or is it both?

I have an original version and it measures 4.8V on the mic input.

Do you know if anyone has confirmed the same in the mkII?
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: RyanJ on March 19, 2019, 07:51:37 PM
Anyone know where you can pick one of these up or the mkii? Would love to get the Oade mod.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: jerryfreak on March 19, 2019, 11:15:29 PM
Anyone know where you can pick one of these up or the mkii? Would love to get the Oade mod.
from what ive read here they are discontinued> ebay seems to be the only option
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: johnmuge on March 23, 2019, 11:29:12 AM
Does anyone have a link to a show with AT 853's (4.7k mod) straight into a Oade warm mod PMD620 ?  Trying to decide if I want to get mine moded.  Recorded Duke Robillard the other night with good results. Nice low pro rig.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: one8ung on July 11, 2021, 09:30:11 PM
I have bought a unit because I read about a plug-in power from 5 volts but I'm measuring only a little less than 3 volts.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: morst on July 12, 2021, 01:38:53 AM
I have bought a unit because I read about a plug-in power from 5 volts but I'm measuring only a little less than 3 volts.
volt meters have very high input impedance, presumably so they don't interact with the circuit. You might need to measure across a load resistor in order to get a more realistic indication of what happens while it's being used to supply current.
* I am not an electrician, but I did take a full year of Electricity/Electronics in high school LONG ago back when circuits did the same thing but the parts were bigger
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: one8ung on July 12, 2021, 03:58:08 AM
second measurement, now with a true RMS multimeter.
Title: Re: Tapers Section World Scoop (LOL) - Marantz PMD620
Post by: rocksuitcase on July 12, 2021, 12:40:10 PM
^^^^ To not get too OT, 4.3 is probably "acceptable" as far as the manufacturer is/was concerned (design wise). (But maybe not for your mics)
I had a Dell tech explain to me that although USB specs set for 5.0 volts, they are acceptable in testing coming off the front USB ports at 4.2V. Further explained that a device which requires 5V may not power up from that port. Indeed when I found a port which had 5V the "offending device" powered right up. (it was a USB controller module for an HILTI device)