From the previous thread:
***********************
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Quote from: d5 on May 01, 2007, 09:37:40 PM
Quote from: danlynch on April 30, 2007, 04:00:51 PM
Battery meter. Using rechargeable LaCrosse (charged with the LaCrosse charger). The meter went down to half-level within a short period of time (maybe 1/2 hour), but stayed at half for the rest of the recording, and was still at half after a 2-hour recording (including phantom powering the dpa's).
I'm guessing the battery type was set to akaline. Alkaline drain differantly than NiMH rechargables, so having the battery type set wrong won't effect the runtime, but it will effect the way meter display because of a wrong interpretation.
Bingo. Good call. I've reset them for NiMH.
**********************
Last night I ran the 660 (after properly setting the battery indicator) and the battery meter read full after two hours of recording--including phantom power on the DPA's.
I must say again that this is an extremely easy recorder to run, and the power on the rechargables is quite encouraging.
BCM (with -20dB MIC ATTN engaged!) handled some really powerful PA bursts last night without any clipping or crackling.
Loving this 660!
If anyone cares, I just popped a Sandisk Extreme III 16gb CF card into mine and did a few test recordings (just a few seconds each in different formats). Worked fine. I haven't done any longer recordings yet so don't know what will happen past the 2GB mark or whatever. But it claims to have 284 hours(!) available for stereo mp3 recording, or 25 hours for stereo 44.1 khz WAV.
If anyone cares, I just popped a Sandisk Extreme III 16gb CF card into mine and did a few test recordings (just a few seconds each in different formats). Worked fine. I haven't done any longer recordings yet so don't know what will happen past the 2GB mark or whatever. But it claims to have 284 hours(!) available for stereo mp3 recording, or 25 hours for stereo 44.1 khz WAV.
That's a start...but I'm wondering about longer recordings. When I first got some slower, cheaper 4GB media for the Edirol R-09, it was recording just great for an hour or so and then for whatever reason it just spazzed out from there...not even at the 2GB point...and it definitely was the media that caused the problem and not the recorder (most likely the speed of the card). So, that makes me just kinda leary about the larger cards and, for me, I won't be satisfied enough to actually buy the higher capacity media until others actually run flawlessly for a few recordings, so if possible, please keep reporting your field results.
For now, I'll still stick with 4 GB and smaller, although I really like the idea of 8GB because the record length puts you beyond 99% of the reasonable lengths of a 'music night out' which might include a backup band and a headliner.
In the meantime, thanks for this update and any future updates on in-the-field results you get.
With my 45x 4gb card I've made several mp3 recordings over 5 hours long (basically limited by the battery runtime--someday I'll set up an external power supply) with no problem. Of course that's just a few hundred MB. I like to record what amounts to very extended jam sessions and it's quite useful to me to be able to run the recorder for 8+ hours at a time nonstop, which would be 5 or 6 GB in a single recording in WAV format. Of course I don't know yet how I'll go about editing such a monstrous recording. Maybe I'll try running the recorder that long just as a test, sometime this week or so.If anyone cares, I just popped a Sandisk Extreme III 16gb CF card into mine and did a few test recordings (just a few seconds each in different formats). Worked fine. I haven't done any longer recordings yet so don't know what will happen past the 2GB mark or whatever. But it claims to have 284 hours(!) available for stereo mp3 recording, or 25 hours for stereo 44.1 khz WAV.
That's a start...but I'm wondering about longer recordings. When I first got some slower, cheaper 4GB media for the Edirol R-09, it was recording just great for an hour or so and then for whatever reason it just spazzed out from there...not even at the 2GB point...and it definitely was the media that caused the problem and not the recorder (most likely the speed of the card). So, that makes me just kinda leary about the larger cards and, for me, I won't be satisfied enough to actually buy the higher capacity media until others actually run flawlessly for a few recordings, so if possible, please keep reporting your field results.
For now, I'll still stick with 4 GB and smaller, although I really like the idea of 8GB because the record length puts you beyond 99% of the reasonable lengths of a 'music night out' which might include a backup band and a headliner.
In the meantime, thanks for this update and any future updates on in-the-field results you get.
I am waiting to try out the busman mod on the 660 :D
I am waiting to try out the busman mod on the 660 :D
What does that mod cover? Is there an info link posted somewhere?
If anyone cares, I just popped a Sandisk Extreme III 16gb CF card into mine and did a few test recordings (just a few seconds each in different formats). Worked fine. I haven't done any longer recordings yet so don't know what will happen past the 2GB mark or whatever. But it claims to have 284 hours(!) available for stereo mp3 recording, or 25 hours for stereo 44.1 khz WAV.
Now I just need to figure out how I can record a whole day worth of music with one power source. Anyone used and external battery pack with success?
Get the Busman Mod. I just got mine back and there is a noticeable difference. Especially in the Preamps. Before I was forced to run at -20 attenuation and now I can run it wide open. Found that the level meters are more accurate and there is less hiss now. Busman got it back to me pretty quickly. I can't wait to record more music with it. Now I just need to figure out how I can record a whole day worth of music with one power source. Anyone used and external battery pack with success?
Get the Busman Mod. I just got mine back and there is a noticeable difference. Especially in the Preamps. Before I was forced to run at -20 attenuation and now I can run it wide open. Found that the level meters are more accurate and there is less hiss now. Busman got it back to me pretty quickly. I can't wait to record more music with it. Now I just need to figure out how I can record a whole day worth of music with one power source. Anyone used and external battery pack with success?
Get the Busman Mod. I just got mine back and there is a noticeable difference. Especially in the Preamps. Before I was forced to run at -20 attenuation and now I can run it wide open. Found that the level meters are more accurate and there is less hiss now. Busman got it back to me pretty quickly. I can't wait to record more music with it. Now I just need to figure out how I can record a whole day worth of music with one power source. Anyone used and external battery pack with success?
Is that the busman mod compared to the Oade ACM?
Get the Busman Mod. I just got mine back and there is a noticeable difference. Especially in the Preamps. Before I was forced to run at -20 attenuation and now I can run it wide open. Found that the level meters are more accurate and there is less hiss now. Busman got it back to me pretty quickly. I can't wait to record more music with it. Now I just need to figure out how I can record a whole day worth of music with one power source. Anyone used and external battery pack with success?
Is that the busman mod compared to the Oade ACM?
The above is a huge difference over the Oade version, IMO. I don't know if Doug's version can do that now, but I owned his first modded 660, and you had to run the -20 pad. I'd love to see the results of the Busman 660, attenuation at 0, for a heavy bass show. That would be a major plus over the Oade mod if it can't brickwall.
I am amazed that this thing can do EVERYTHING (pre/AD/recorder) in such a small size.Sa-weet...fuckin' slut!!! Ha!
The only thing I wish it could do is record from the line-in and the mic-in at the same time like the UA5....
(mine sounds better than yours...nyah nyah!)
Quote(mine sounds better than yours...nyah nyah!)
I had Oade put a "flux capacitor" in 660, you don't have a chance! ;) :)
Get the Busman Mod. I just got mine back and there is a noticeable difference. Especially in the Preamps. Before I was forced to run at -20 attenuation and now I can run it wide open. Found that the level meters are more accurate and there is less hiss now. Busman got it back to me pretty quickly. I can't wait to record more music with it. Now I just need to figure out how I can record a whole day worth of music with one power source. Anyone used and external battery pack with success?
Is that the busman mod compared to the Oade ACM?
The above is a huge difference over the Oade version, IMO. I don't know if Doug's version can do that now, but I owned his first modded 660, and you had to run the -20 pad. I'd love to see the results of the Busman 660, attenuation at 0, for a heavy bass show. That would be a major plus over the Oade mod if it can't brickwall.
Thanks for the info. Now I guess the only question left if how a Busman mod would sound with my AT stealth set up (next to the WCM that is)? Hmmmmm, decisions, decisions!
I wonder how the oade ACM and busman mods compare as far as sound quality.Thanks for the info. Now I guess the only question left if how a Busman mod would sound with my AT stealth set up (next to the WCM that is)? Hmmmmm, decisions, decisions!
Notwithstanding all the technical info, the price could be a major factor for me. An ACM is $729 whereas you can pickup a new 660 now for $450 and send $160 to busman...total of $610.
Some people feel that the extra money to Oade is worth the premium for having an Oade box and being able to tie into any potential future Oade mods, but I personally find that to be a consideration NOT to buy from Oade due to this 'exclusivity premium'. However, there's no debating the fact that Oade is THE man when it comes to staying on top of this hobby and supporting our community, so I can't be too hard on the man. He earns what he gets, that's for sure.
So what seems to be the consensus for powering one of these units? voltage range? etc...
I personally would rather be able to monitor the levels. Usually I just run one set of batteries on the 1st set and another on the 2nd set. For festival season, I just bought a 5V Lithium Ion battery pack that puts out 44WattHours. That should be able to allow me run all day.
(http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/laptopupgrade_1951_8064392)
$99
Key Features:
High capacity. Most Digital Cameras/Video Camcorder's standard batteries only have 5Wh~10Wh capacity. This battery has 44Wh (Watt-Hour) capacity. For reference, an AA battery has about 2.7Wh capacity (1.8Ah at 1.5V). This may help calculating your expected run time.
Ultra light weight design.
Compatible with
Devices which require 5V, 8.4V or 11V power supply, such as network routers, BiX Pocketsize USB or Firewire hard drives, BiX Slim USB or Firewire Optical Drives.
Compatible with following Cameras/video cameras: Sony, JVC, Panasonic, Fuji, Olympus, Nikon, Casio, Kodak, HP, Minolta.....
as well as most cameras or devices which require 5 to 12 volt power supply.
No memory effect. Can be recharged at any time regardless of the amount of discharge.
Built-in batery gauge which displays power level of the battery pack.
AC quick charger included. Temperature and over-voltage/current protection.
Universal camera cable included. Compatible with most all digital cameras/video cameras or equipment.
Can also be used as an external power supply for any device such as portable Radio, CD/VCD/ DVD player etc...which requires 5 to 12 volt power input
I am going to give my busman mod 660 a test run at ratdog next week!
Thanks for the info. Now I guess the only question left if how a Busman mod would sound with my AT stealth set up (next to the WCM that is)? Hmmmmm, decisions, decisions!
Notwithstanding all the technical info, the price could be a major factor for me. An ACM is $729 whereas you can pickup a new 660 now for $450 and send $160 to busman...total of $610.
Some people feel that the extra money to Oade is worth the premium for having an Oade box and being able to tie into any potential future Oade mods, but I personally find that to be a consideration NOT to buy from Oade due to this 'exclusivity premium'. However, there's no debating the fact that Oade is THE man when it comes to staying on top of this hobby and supporting our community, so I can't be too hard on the man. He earns what he gets, that's for sure.
I have been using my song catcher mod for a few shows now and am very happy. What an easy to use box.
Here is the last show I taped:
http://www.archive.org/details/dso2007-07-05.KarmaK10
QFMFTI have been using my song catcher mod for a few shows now and am very happy. What an easy to use box.
Here is the last show I taped:
http://www.archive.org/details/dso2007-07-05.KarmaK10
dam that sounds nice......
Very nice recording =D, I can't wait to try my 660 now. I have some concerts planned in august to see, but I am after hearing the last couple shows posted on this thread I have an urge to go record something =D. John Mayer in saratoga saturday is looking awfully tempting.
The more you use it the better your recordings will get.
I think I am going to get a kingston CF card, and make sure my battery connectors are all good. those seems to be the most common issues.
how do you reformat the card. Do you just delete all contents on the card?Hold down Shift and press Edit.
so I opened the card on my computer and deleted everthing from the card including the folder and 4 others program/configuration files and then formatted the card. When I first bought the deck I probably read it, but totally forgot. Thanks for the quick responses. I will make that part of my SOP from now on. Did any of you guys have any trouble with your decks and the card full error before you started formating the CF card each time?
Thats what the TS family is for. Good luck tonight. I want a full report.
Have fun tonight Krispy. I am sure you will be very pleased with your deck. Make sure you lock the keypad when you are recording. I learned that one the hard way once.
There are now something like five busman mod PMD-660s. I got mine back a couple weeks ago and had a chance to give it a workout at All Good. I think it's just awesome sounding.
Here are my first three uploads. Please let me know what ya'll think.
Steve
moe.
http://www.archive.org/details/moe2007-07-14.km184.flac16
Dark Star Orchestra (only the first set)
http://www.archive.org/details/dso2007-07-12.akg481.FLAC16
The Lee Boys
http://www.archive.org/details/leeboys2007-07-15.akg481.FLAC16
:-X I love looking at her too
:-X I love looking at her too
you dodged the Q =D
I got this yesterday from computergeeks.com for 50$ plus S&H
http://www.geeks.com/details.asp?invtid=HD182-20&cpc=SCH
works fairly well, fully charged battery transfered 8gb of data to the photodrive before the internal battery was depleted.
this with a 1gb, and 2x 2gb should let me get a helluva a lot of music before having to find a PC.
description:
The INOi 20 GB PHOTO HARDDISK is the perfect companion for digital photographers as well as mobile computer users. Easily back up your flash card on its internal 20 gigabyte (GB) hard disk!
When you fill up your flash card with pictures and want to keep shooting, just transfer the entire contents of your flash media card to the 20 GB PHOTO HARDDISK with one press of a button.
Also, the PHOTO HARDDISK can be used with any PC or MAC computer for additional mobile storage of your data files. Its high speed USB 2.0 interface quickly and easily uploads files from your computer to the Photo HardDisk. Take high resolution photos without worrying about lack of memory space! Order today!
Features/Specifications:
* INOi USB 2.0 20 GB Portable External Photo HardDisk
* General Features:
* Pearl White
* 20 GB 1.8-inch 4200 RPM Hard Drive
* Display: 1.8-inch (1280 x 64) B/W LCD with Blue Backlight
* Four (4) Control Keys
* Direct copy from flash media to internal HDD without a PC
* Rugged design
* Delayed power button to prevent accidental ON
* Auto-OFF to conserve battery power
* Battery charged via USB bus power
* User Changeable startup screen
* Multi user interface with multiple language support
* Reliable backup for digital photos and personal data
* Mac and PC compatible
* File System:
* HDD: First partition needs to be FAT 16 or FAT32 to support direct copy
* Memory Card: FAT 16/32
* Interface:
* USB 2.0 (USB 1.1 compatible)
* Compact Flash Type I & II
* SD/Mini SD
* MMC-RS-MMC
* MS/MS PRO/MS DUO/MS DUO PRO
* MicroDrive (external ACDC required)
* Power:
* Internal 600 mAh Li-ion Polymer Battery charged by external AC/DC or bus power (approximately 3 GB of backup with fully charged battery)
* Dimensions:
* 2.5 x 3.9 x 0.8-inches (W x D x H, approximate)
There are now something like five busman mod PMD-660s.
^I have not. I believe the ACM cuts the line in. (Chime in if I am wrong)
Anyone use a Preamp before their 660?
Anyone use a Preamp before their 660?
from the website: http://www.d-mpro.com/users/folder.asp?FolderID=3629&Tab=Data+Sheet
Inputs
MIC IN L/R
Type
XLR (1:GND, 2:HOT, 3:COLD)
Input sensitivity
1.2 mV rms /6.5k ohms
LINE IN L/R
Type
1/8" mini jack
Input sensitivity
300 mV rms /20k ohms
I see the difference in mV and ohms, does this mean you need a louder source for the line in?
hello i run a pmd 660 with no mods. i use the 20 db pad always and i never use the internal mic pres due to there noise to floor ratio. i use a external mic pre .psp-3 .my results have been awesome. power is by battery when short show.4 double a batteries do it. long hauls are powered by a power runner. the best new external power supply. ecco charge has dropped the ball because they do not seem to wANT TO RETURN PHONE CALLS. as for compact cards: lexar is the best with this unit. i have several 4 gig cards and several 2 gig cards. seagate,sansdisk,and micro center. all work fine.recently bought a 8 gig card from lexar. 13 hours of non stop joy. i run b and k 4021,s mostly. schoeps as well. shot guns for stadium size places. i have been thinking about the new mod but i think i will await more information. please feel free to contact with anycomments regarding this deck. todd
I'm under the impression that the 660 won't take 8 GB cards. Can anyone else confirm this?
seems mine seized up after the show tonight.
recorded the entire show fine.
afterwards in car, dunno what happened, went to playback and nothing.
the LED screen shows like a bunch of shit, no error messages, just all the usual settings displayed at once.
anyone have any ideas?
I removed the batteries, tried using AC plug it came with, same deal.
tried a different CF card as well.
My 660 stopped for no apparent reason last night, with about 3 minutes left in the Springsteen show. I had battery power left, and 35 minutes left on the disc. The only explanations are either that I hit something that caused it to stop (I had LOCK on as per usual), or that it shut down because of heat. I guess after running over 2:30 straight inside of a little bag, it was too warm. The deck was quite warm when I pulled it out of the bag. The only other time I had a problem like this was in the rain with Richard Thompson, a problem that I attributed to excessive moisture.in the 18 months or so that i ran an acm660, i had 2 problems. both were lock-ups and were without a doubt due to heat. 3+ hours in upper 90s.
I have to say that it pretty much sucks that I can't depend on this deck to run without fail, and that it will just stop without reason.
Fortunately, I did end up getting 99% of the show, and only lost the last half of the last song.
Those with Freeze issues... were you using Lexar cards?
All of my problems stopped as soon I began using the recommended media.
seems mine seized up after the show tonight.
recorded the entire show fine.
afterwards in car, dunno what happened, went to playback and nothing.
the LED screen shows like a bunch of shit, no error messages, just all the usual settings displayed at once.
anyone have any ideas?
I removed the batteries, tried using AC plug it came with, same deal.
tried a different CF card as well.
Is the show ok......Do you have a card reader to see if it recorded the show? Did you get it wet? Can you post a picture of the LED screen? I never had this happen.
Sorry for your troubles.
I'll keep posting this in regard to the 660, just because a CF card works on your computer does not mean that the 660 likes it. I went through the tech support circle trying to get an issue solved with my 660 using a Sandisk card that I thought was working just fine. If you call Marantz tech support they'll blame the card every time unless it's a Lexar Card. If you call Sandisk to get a new card they'll blame incompatibility with the machine. I had my 660 Lock up during recording for a card that worked in everything else I threw it into. I got to the point where I was ready to just sell the machine because I couldn't count on it as being a reliable device. Finally bucked up and purchased the Lexar and had zero problems from there on out. They've tweaked this box with this media in mind and it shows. If you own one of these and want real assistance from Marantz use the recommended media.
This almost reminds me of the 'ole 90meter DDS debate.
;)
When i got my acm660 from Doug Oade, he was recommending Lexar, Viking and PNY on Marantz's say so.
I have all three and only had trouble once with a PNY card in the slot. Lost the second set of a kick-ass RRE show, nothing there to recover, even though all the pretty lights danced throughout the set. Never happened again and I've use that card repeatedly since.
Don't use any of those cards and I've never had any problems mentioned above. Only with power and ever sense I bought a 5 V battery pack not one issue. Love my 660. Most of the time it sounds better than my R4.
Don't use any of those cards and I've never had any problems mentioned above. Only with power and ever sense I bought a 5 V battery pack not one issue. Love my 660. Most of the time it sounds better than my R4.
What 5 volt pack do you use?
Don't use any of those cards and I've never had any problems mentioned above. Only with power and ever sense I bought a 5 V battery pack not one issue. Love my 660. Most of the time it sounds better than my R4.
What 5 volt pack do you use?
It is small, 11 Watt hours and is only $49.95
http://www.bixnet.com/misihicabapa.html (http://www.bixnet.com/misihicabapa.html)
or a step up from that
Here is the next step up: 26 Watt hours and is $69.95
http://www.bixnet.com/5v7libapa.html (http://www.bixnet.com/5v7libapa.html)
or the 44 Watt Hour model for $99.00 this is the one I bought
http://www.bixnet.com/mumiexbapaki1.html (http://www.bixnet.com/mumiexbapaki1.html)
I chose external batteries b/c of the fact that you don't have to worry about changing them and you can take them to festies and run all day on the one that I bought.
good to hear that you got it fixed so quickly. I just put my Busman 660 on the yard sale. I don't care if it sells or not. It is a great box and don't mind holding on to it.Don't see it, but I'm interested so PM me with info.
good to hear that you got it fixed so quickly. I just put my Busman 660 on the yard sale. I don't care if it sells or not. It is a great box and don't mind holding on to it.Don't see it, but I'm interested so PM me with info.
Has anyone tried to use a pmd 600 ACM to do any kind of interview work? I'm wondering how it would work in a quiet setting doing an interview. Probably not so good.
Has anyone tried to use a pmd 600 ACM to do any kind of interview work? I'm wondering how it would work in a quiet setting doing an interview. Probably not so good.
doesn't the ACM mod disable the built in mics? That means without mics the 660 is useless for interview purposes after the mod right?
A couple of things as I read the renewed thread.:-) Nice summary of the continuing thread.
1) Invest in a Lexar Card, it's what Marantz sez to use and it's the only one they'll accept as being error free if you have issues with their unit and need to talk with tech support. Since I made the switch from Sandisc.... 0 Problems! There IS a difference in memory quality, don't drag down a serious investment like one of these recorders and a serious pair of mics by hunting for bargains on the recording medium. It's no fun if you're worried about making it home with the show!
2) If you have a modded unit already I can't see any reason to run a preamp in front of it. I can't speak for the Busman mods but if you have an ACM or you are sporting the new Song Catcher all I can say is that putting anything in front of it will only serve to close down the image. You may change the tone based on the box that's in front but at a price. If it's tone you're after have fun in your favorite DAW in post! The Oade modded units with the pad can handle up to a +4dB signal so can handle a preamp in front or even a soundboard if you're so inclined.
3) Remember that the "AA" Batteries are hot swappable in these boxes. With rechargeables reaching such a high capacity and coming down in price AND having the ability to charger from a 12V supply you can run all day with 16 with only one trip or two back to the ride for festivals.
Have fun guys, it's a great little all in one package!!
Doug says to always run the pad on the 660
if I have to yell over the music to communicate
When I have decided to not go with it, there are always a handful of moments when it clips badly, while the rest of the show runs right where you want it to.
With the pad, I might add a little gain in post, but most of the time its good the way it was recorded.
I got that clicking with a PNY card (recommended) Friday night. Gain was set low, but it seems that once I increased the gain, it stopped . Maybe coincidence.The ticking comes and goes in my recording and I hear it even without the headphones at times.
I've used the card a lot and it only lasted about a minute when I first began recording. I was able to cut it out in post.
Hmm? I never considered the card.
^ Are you sure it's not cell phone interference?No, I'm not at all sure.
I just checked the original recording and the spikes that represent the clicks are at 15, 20, 27, 30, and 38 seconds. Could that have to do with a cell phone? Seems irregular, but maybe I'm only thinking about the ring. ???I don't know, but here's yet another thread on cell-phone noise, I've only read up to the first page so far.
I picked up the Lexar card today, but haven't tried it out yet.
I'm hoping the Marantz recommended card is the cure.
:) ;D
I picked up the Lexar card today, but haven't tried it out yet.
I'm hoping the Marantz recommended card is the cure.
It probably is.
I just want to confirm whether or not the weird 'clicking' noise mentioned waaaay back in the first thread was definitely cured by using a card reader instead of the USB out.
No one's mentioned that recently,
but I can hear it pretty clearly in my most recent recording
made with conservative levels for a highly dynamic performance.
(stock PMD-660)
So much good advice here, just want to be sure about this so I can buy
either a new CF card or just a card reader or both.
Thanks.
:-)
My first trial of the Lexar 60x4G card produces that right channel tickticktickticktickticktick,
when listening carefully through headphones
when
my cell phone was off
using both AC and batteries
granted, even with headphones, I have to listen pretty hard, but when the source gets quiet,
the ticking is definitely there.
Again, I can't control the cell phone use of 60 other people in the room,
and therefore can't blame it entirely on the card.
I could try another test in my apartment, but there's so much electrical interference in here,
I doubt it would be scientific. I will try it anyway.
I won't be able to vouch for my downstairs neighbor's cell phone.
Perhaps someone needs to take their machine out into the woods miles from anyone
use a Lexar card and do some quiet field recordings.
I wonder if I'll be able to use the machine in that sort of application... ??? :-\
I think I'll be looking into rigging up one of those metal cage external shielding devices,
despite the added bulk. (and wearing my aluminum foil at too! :laugh: ::) :) )
Or just carry some pots and pans to the show :laugh: :)
I remembered just a moment ago that my friend used to use a TV remote control next to his guitar pickups to produce a similar ticking sound that he fed through effects and loop pedals.... :-\
Have any of y'all noticed that this taping business is a bit addictive? 8):) :D Ha! You woke up thinking about the ticking?! That's dedication :)
I woke up thinking about the ticking,
...
I'll play with this tonight and see if I can duplicate it.
Just got off the phone with Marantz tech support and they verified the ticking issue. He said that the Lexar 4GB Platinum II 80x speed card should work with no problems. In addition, he said that he has seen issues with most other cards. He recommended the following CF cards: Lexar, Viking, Hitachi, IBM, and PNY. Of all of them, he preferred the Lexar and that I should not have any problems with them. If you are having problems even after using the Lexar card, you should call them directly at: 866-405-2154. I also asked him about running an 8GB card and he said it was no problem. The only thing is that you must start a new track after 4GB and that it may not recognize the full capacity of the card when you insert it. So in other words, it might just show 4GB avaialable, and once you use that up, it will recognize another 4GB. I would probably just get two 4GB cards instead.:)
Yeah, probly too hot - I run mine all green with very occasional single orange peaks..
^ Doesn't sound right............but I don't have a Busman........I'm always pushing the reds.yeah i always ran full orange occasional red but that was an oade box
^ Doesn't sound right............but I don't have a Busman........I'm always pushing the reds.yeah i always ran full orange occasional red but that was an oade box
^ Doesn't sound right............but I don't have a Busman........I'm always pushing the reds.yeah i always ran full orange occasional red but that was an oade box
Same
I have been told that running past the 1st orange can cause saturation or distorion.. I run in the green and let it light up the orange occationally.
You sure you got a mod? Sounds kind of like no mod?????
I bought it directly from Oade who told me that running it hot was not a great idea. Another member on this board who had a busman mod had a similar experience...
^Tappin' that mod.;D
Ah Fuck it, I'm so confused now. I'm gonna email Doug and see what he says...Doug will tell you to run the pad and run it hot, hot as in full orange
The big advantage of 24 bit recording is that you don't have to run "balls-to-the-wall" to get a decent signal to noise ratio. You can raise the overall level of a 24 bit recording in post without bringing the noise floor up to the point where it's intrusive.Indeed, but these portable recorders' internal micpre noise levels rarely get to 16-bit equivalent EIN, so 24 bits is far more useful with external, truly-low-noise micpres and ADCs. But you knew that... :)
The noise floor of 16 bit recordings becomes noticeable more quickly as you boost the levels in post. So a 16 bit recorder like the 660, should be run close to clipping in order to keep the noise floor down.
that modded recorder still available???The pmd 660 isn't available.
tried to pm but couldn't get it togo through
thank you
jackson
Well.. I sold my PMD-660 in the yardsale so I won't be a member of this team (thread) anymore (Why is there no team?) but I have to tell you how my problem with meters and clipping turned out. Chris and I talked and looked at the waveform... It was some clipping and flattops on signal that where no clipping. We both figured out the A/D was overloading. I sent it back to him and he turned it right around and now the meters match what is being recorded. What is being recorded is perfect. What a great sounding box. I could love it. The R-4 will suit me better tho. Good luck guys, You made a good choice choosing the modded PMD-660. When you consider what even a UA-5 and a JB-3 have costed... Its a smokin deal.
I have AT853 that end in 1/8th inch plug. What do I need to do to use with the 660?
How does the file split work with this box? anybody know? I have the opportunity to tape tonight with power in a super safe spot and an empty 4gig card. I want to set up and start taping the opener and just let it go till the end of the show . Probably something like 9pm-1am. will this work? Or will I run into trouble?A day late and a dollar short, I am, but I usually don't record continuously. Set breaks and band change overs make convenient times to hit stop for a few minutes. If nothing else, hit the Rec button to start a new file. Some have said that trying to record just one massive file doesn't work so well. I can see why.
I have already asked for help (http://taperssection.com/index.php/topic,98155.0.html) in another part of this board but still looking for salvation.
Somehow a recording I made Saturday night did not register on the compact flash. All I get is a file with zero bytes. I really want this show. Anyone know what I can do? I'm going to try one of the recovery programs.
All of my problems stopped as soon as I switched to the Lexar Gold card.
I use external batteries http://www.bixnet.com/5v7libapa.html
You should get external batts.
You may want to pm shackaholic.
He lost his files during transfer from his 671 at my house.
He paid for a program to recover his files and it worked flawlessly.
Not sure if you want to pay for it but it worked.
and plus tee for your troubles.
-todd
NewplanetHi aj.
Its not exactly a ticking as much as just a extremely high static noise level. I tried all the different cards including the original Lexar card and didnt notice any difference on the recordings. I did turn off my bluetooth on the comp and did notice a slight difference but not much. I think I might be just overly sensitive to the normal static noise levels on this thing.
Is the Oade Mod still considered a "warm" mod to this system? I saw in the earlier posts there were variants from 1st gen to 2nd. Mine is Serial # 200206... and later. I have been trying to figure out if I just send it to them or Busman if it'll kill that noise.
Anyone have experience with the Oade mod w/Beyer MC930s? I am still undecided if this would make them a little too "warm" since the mics sound pretty warm on their own. I cant decide on mics in this price range that'll work well.
I am up for suggestions!
I hate to report this following a major problem losing a show a few weeks ago.
But I was recording Toubab Krewe last night and ran into another disaster. Had my LSD2 on stage and was expecting a killer recording. More than an hour in, I check the recorder and see it is off - dead, no power. The power switch is still on. I rush to put in new batteries and get it rolling again, but 10 minutes later, that dies. Toggle switch and power comes on for a second, then dies. Both battery sets were fully charged.
Now, the recorder shows neither file. (And I was using a Lexar gold)
Anyone know what could have happened? The deck was on stage and the only thing I can think is vibrations are to blame. But for it to happen twice seems odd. Really frustrating. Kicking myself because I had the power cord and an outlet was available.
Hey guysI get distortion related to loud bass frequencies. Everything else sounds clear,
I am new to the Marantz PMD660, I havent gone through the forums to see if other had this issue yet... but I just picked up a slightly used PMD660 (its 3 months old).
The issue I am having is a slight static noise at all gain levels. I have tested whether it would disappear with attenuation off/on, AC power or battery powered. After all those options I have kind of run out of ideas. Would a computer nearby cause this effect at all? Even with the gain completely down I still get the low static.
I am powering the mic via the 48v phantom power. Does the system have a slight flaw I was unaware of?
I have seen mention of the Oade/Busman mods, these relate directly to this or did I buy a defunct unit?
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks
ok I tested several CF cards as I read in the other section of this thread that might be an issue, I've ran SanDisk, Kingston, Lexar, and A-Data. All have the same noise, could it be the cable or mic? I have been testing with an AT2021. Would being near a computer cause issues as well?
I want to try and remedy all that I can ASAP as I have to use this unit for a video shoot this weekend.
Send it to busman and get it modded!That's probably the most sensible thing, rather than having two mediocre recorders, be without one for a while and get it tuned up. Thanks for putting it to me straight.
Done deal. You won't have any distortion.
It is because yours is a stock unit and is not made for higher spl's
produced by p.a.'s
The 660 wasn't intended for what we use it for.
That's where the mods come in.
You should do that before going with a zoom IMO.
Use the box right and you'll get great results.
and I'll be looking for power outlets from now on too.
Nice batt.
Since I don't/won't do festivals
I use this http://www.bixnet.com/5v7libapa.html
It gives me some security because I know it won't run out for
about six hours with the screen on and phantom on..
Great stealth applications, if I stealthed. ;):scared:
Which brings me to the battery issue.
I've been searching round all the usual geek stores for a battery box that will give me 5V and can't find anything. I tried searching at http://www.soundhouse.co.jp/ , but couldn't come up with anything... I've since confirmed the Japanese terminology, better to try again... 6V, or 4.something or 1.5 or 12 is abundant, but everyone just shakes their head and apologises when I ask for 5.
That looks nice too.
Which brings me to the battery issue.
I've been searching round all the usual geek stores for a battery box that will give me 5V and can't find anything. I tried searching at http://www.soundhouse.co.jp/ , but couldn't come up with anything... I've since confirmed the Japanese terminology, better to try again... 6V, or 4.something or 1.5 or 12 is abundant, but everyone just shakes their head and apologises when I ask for 5.
I just got this http://tinyurl.com/5pqhep .Pick your voltage.
I used it the other night, running for 3 hours straight with the 660's display on, and it only showed one light off.
How about Amazon http://tinyurl.com/3fhpc8 ?Yeah, I liked the looks of that one too.
There are other batteries above in the thread, but I'm impressed with this one, and I can use it for other electronics.
NewplanetI'm running the Beyers with a Advanced Concert Mod PMD660 and i've been happy with the recordings. I've been using both sandisc and lexar cf cards and have not had any ticking or noise problems with either.
Its not exactly a ticking as much as just a extremely high static noise level. I tried all the different cards including the original Lexar card and didnt notice any difference on the recordings. I did turn off my bluetooth on the comp and did notice a slight difference but not much. I think I might be just overly sensitive to the normal static noise levels on this thing.
Is the Oade Mod still considered a "warm" mod to this system? I saw in the earlier posts there were variants from 1st gen to 2nd. Mine is Serial # 200206... and later. I have been trying to figure out if I just send it to them or Busman if it'll kill that noise.
Anyone have experience with the Oade mod w/Beyer MC930s? I am still undecided if this would make them a little too "warm" since the mics sound pretty warm on their own. I cant decide on mics in this price range that'll work well.
I am up for suggestions!
Cool.NewplanetI'm running the Beyers with a Advanced Concert Mod PMD660 and i've been happy with the recordings. I've been using both sandisc and lexar cf cards and have not had any ticking or noise problems with either.
Its not exactly a ticking as much as just a extremely high static noise level. I tried all the different cards including the original Lexar card and didnt notice any difference on the recordings. I did turn off my bluetooth on the comp and did notice a slight difference but not much. I think I might be just overly sensitive to the normal static noise levels on this thing.
Is the Oade Mod still considered a "warm" mod to this system? I saw in the earlier posts there were variants from 1st gen to 2nd. Mine is Serial # 200206... and later. I have been trying to figure out if I just send it to them or Busman if it'll kill that noise.
Anyone have experience with the Oade mod w/Beyer MC930s? I am still undecided if this would make them a little too "warm" since the mics sound pretty warm on their own. I cant decide on mics in this price range that'll work well.
I am up for suggestions!
I've always used -20db attenuator and internal batterys. MMW was not loud at all and still had good levels with the pad on.I always run the pad too.
I only taped MMW on 2-23 at the Klein in Bridgeport at the stage lip. We got there late and missed the beginning of the show but the second set came out awesome.I've always used -20db attenuator and internal batterys. MMW was not loud at all and still had good levels with the pad on.I always run the pad too.
I just use externals because they are more of peace of mind for me.
The 660 has had battery sled/contact issues and I figured I would just bypass that.
I am thinking of either getting some of those beyers or 460's or 480's.
John,
you taped the 26th and 27th right?
They sound great.
I did the 21st,22,23, and 29th.
I only taped MMW on 2-23 at the Klein in Bridgeport at the stage lip. We got there late and missed the beginning of the show but the second set came out awesome.My bad.
If you would like to hear my source, PM me your address and i'll get out to ya. Pre-show brews sound good to me always. ;DI only taped MMW on 2-23 at the Klein in Bridgeport at the stage lip. We got there late and missed the beginning of the show but the second set came out awesome.My bad.
There are mc930 sources for the 26th & 27th, but I already archived it.
And since the db @ etree is down I just figured it was you.
Hell of a show though, the 23rd.
Wish I had known you were going, could've had a pre-show brew.
Soon I'm sure.
-todd
Pad on+external=no problemQFMFT
Does anyone know how (or if you can) to turn of the internal speakers? Every once in a while I like to listen in the car or from home using the line out and the internals are blaring the whole time. It's really annoying unless the stereo is up really loud so that it overpowers the tiny internals. I have had a life long hate toward small tinny sounding speakers.
Does anyone know how (or if you can) to turn of the internal speakers? Every once in a while I like to listen in the car or from home using the line out and the internals are blaring the whole time. It's really annoying unless the stereo is up really loud so that it overpowers the tiny internals. I have had a life long hate toward small tinny sounding speakers.
In output mode you can choose between line out, or speaker/head phones (sp/hp) or both.
nice! does line out cut out the volume nob too?
Yes.
Pad on+external=no problemYou got it. :)
Any advice for an externally-powered-660 noob?
Thanks.
Egads, that's $100 with shipping.only if it has a 5v setting ;)
My question is whether one of these ESA DVD Batteries (the "Walmart" type) that I use to power the Mini-Me will work with the 660.
Bump.
Just bought the busman mod 660 in the yard sale!
I have a Lexar Platinum II 4GB and a very small powerful
external batt pack i use for my Korg MR-1. What else do i need?
Any other concerns?
Going to try to run this with DPA 4023's and Schoeps CCM41's
until i can get a hold of an Aerco pre. (anybody selling one)
24 bit is overrated 8)
Just bought the busman mod 660 in the yard sale!
I have a Lexar Platinum II 4GB and a very small powerful
external batt pack i use for my Korg MR-1. What else do i need?
Any other concerns?
Going to try to run this with DPA 4023's and Schoeps CCM41's
until i can get a hold of an Aerco pre. (anybody selling one)
24 bit is overrated 8)
a show to tape?
Just bought the busman mod 660 in the yard sale!you won't need the external batt pack for a single show. i used to get ~7 hours from a set of e2 lithiums. good rechargeable batts should yield you at least 4, maybe 5 hours. i'm just saying, why carry around a batt pack, however small it is, if you don't have to?
I have a Lexar Platinum II 4GB and a very small powerful
external batt pack i use for my Korg MR-1. What else do i need?
Any other concerns?
Going to try to run this with DPA 4023's and Schoeps CCM41's
until i can get a hold of an Aerco pre. (anybody selling one)
24 bit is overrated 8)
no problems with batteries but my scandisk 4gb cf cards no longer hold 6:28 in 16/44, one card says 4 hrs and another says 2:50.It's recommended that people use Lexar cards.
any links to a thread that covers this weirdness?
no problems with batteries but my scandisk 4gb cf cards no longer hold 6:28 in 16/44, one card says 4 hrs and another says 2:50.It's recommended that people use Lexar cards.
any links to a thread that covers this weirdness?
That's good to know because a few people were having problems in this thread untilno problems with batteries but my scandisk 4gb cf cards no longer hold 6:28 in 16/44, one card says 4 hrs and another says 2:50.It's recommended that people use Lexar cards.
any links to a thread that covers this weirdness?
I have no problem with Lexar, PNY or Viking cards.
no problems with batteries but my scandisk 4gb cf cards no longer hold 6:28 in 16/44, one card says 4 hrs and another says 2:50.Also I should've asked if you've formatted it?
any links to a thread that covers this weirdness?
so I'm a dooftard and rolled this whole time with scandisk. and I even remember the thread talking about the lexar and pny cards (now I remember);D
will format when I get it out again as well, I are slow often.
thanks all
no problems with batteries but my scandisk 4gb cf cards no longer hold 6:28 in 16/44, one card says 4 hrs and another says 2:50.
any links to a thread that covers this weirdness?
Anyone take a SBD patch into this beast yet?
How to???????????????
I imagine mic in but it would be a mono patch right?
Thanks.
-todd
Anyone take a SBD patch into this beast yet?
How to???????????????
I imagine mic in but it would be a mono patch right?
Thanks.
-todd
This isn't really the box for a patch. The only setup I can figure is an RCA > Mini (line-in). But even with that configuration, you have to re-program the input from MIC to LINE.
I'm using an ACM 660.
I ran a line-in sbd feed a couple of times with mixed results. I pulled a Doc Watson show in Todd, NC and it sounds pretty good (XLR out of the board). But I also taped a local bluegrass fetsival (rca out) and was forced to run very low levels so as not to distort (after a couple of ruined recordings at "normal" levels). I thought about using the XLR ins on the unit, but those are mic-in connections, so I figured that was a no-go.
No line-in on the ACM.
Yes the SBD feed was too high if you had problems. Make sure when you run the XLR from a SBD to turn your phantom power off!!!!
Jesus Christ I am tracking a Brew tape Krispy D did and the Oade ACM Marantz PMD 660 can run very hot and click pretty gracefully.That second set was way to hot! sorry about that. the good news is that little box can clip with very little distortion!
how many hands has that tape gone through now? I thought I gave it to Joe to finish... Hmmm... How many tapers does it take to track a brew show?lol he outsourced it
I have a Busman T-Mod 660 and my setup looks like this:
Neumann SKM 184 > Canare Xlr's > Busman T-Mod Marrantz PMD 660
.... I've owned this box for a little over a year and got the mod about exactly a year ago... well anyway... I have noticed that i almost always have to use the -20db attenuation pad while recording...but when i go to a show that is a) either unplugged acoustic music or b) i am forced to record from the back of the room i have to turn the attenuator off and in doing so the mics overdrive at even just clapping...and if i leave the attenuator on then the levels are way low unless you turn the levels way up which causes hiss? any suggestions?
P.S. to the questions above about batteries i would use the tekkon a little big but it is ready to go out of the package and it will last for 8 + hours of recording with the phantom power on and running to the 184's
here is the situation where i most often encountered the problem...Gain to 10?
recording stage lip
b
C g
x
clarinet, bass and guitar x marks the mics.
with the -20db pad on, i was getting 1-2 orange lights with the gain to 10 (maybe thats enough, maybe not, i wanted more). i flipped off the pad and turned down to 5 and the peaks were very close to clipping, clipping sometimes as well.
interested to hear others have not had that exp.
TEN as in eleven in a british accent.
all the way up on the pmd660
my stage lip tapes smoke. even with acoustic music. Mines not a busman mod though... Good luck. curious to see how this unfolds.Maybe just a couple of troubled mods?
my stage lip tapes smoke. even with acoustic music. Mines not a busman mod though... Good luck. curious to see how this unfolds.Maybe just a couple of troubled mods?
Definitely realized that you weren't knocking it.my stage lip tapes smoke. even with acoustic music. Mines not a busman mod though... Good luck. curious to see how this unfolds.Maybe just a couple of troubled mods?
I hope so, I would hate to see a real problem with an otherwise great box! I was not knocking the busmod btw, just pointing out that mine had no issues. I have heard plenty of great busman mod 660 tapes to know better...
Hope this works out for everybody.
Howdy all,
New to the Team. I just bought a stock 660 for stealth recording to augment my other recorder which is a R-4. After discovering so many issues with the mic pre I kind of wish I would have waited a couple of months for the 661 but I didn't. Does anyone know if Marantz has made any adjustments on the latest releases? The reason i ask is because I don't really want to spend the money on a Mod if I am going to get a 661 early next year.
Howdy all,
New to the Team. I just bought a stock 660 for stealth recording to augment my other recorder which is a R-4. After discovering so many issues with the mic pre I kind of wish I would have waited a couple of months for the 661 but I didn't. Does anyone know if Marantz has made any adjustments on the latest releases? The reason i ask is because I don't really want to spend the money on a Mod if I am going to get a 661 early next year.
Not sure what you mean by 'issues with the mic pre'. It's pretty standard amongst music and nature recordists that a stock recorder gets a mod for lower noise, better sounding preamps, so the 660 is no exception there. From personal experience, the Busman 660 mod is an excellent modification that makes the sound of that box significantly better than the stock version by a MILE...so for my own tastes, the mod was well worth $160. I've already said it before, it's one of the best sounding recorder mods in the business, in my mind.
Also, I know the 661 is smaller than the 660, but I'm not sure why peeps consider the 660 all that unstealthable. It's plenty small enough and with the 661 having the meter on the top instead of the side (not to mention the unrecessed volume control knob), I think that's gonna cause stealthing problems anyway that you wouldn't have with a stashed 660. Taboot, the 661's probably gonna need a mod too. No doubt 24 bit on the 661 is cool though.
Having said that, I can't say that I know if the 660 guts have been improved. You'd probably be best judge anyway to run it for a show and see if your ears are satisfied with the results.
As usual, all my own opinions and just trying to provide some objectiveness based on those opinions...without try to bash anything or anyone.
Steve, I read in the 661 thread where you describe the meters on the 660 vs 661 in terms of "top" and "side" and I think one could say they are both on the end, just with the 661 it's mostly on the top, but does have a slight pitch. From the photos, it seems that viewing the 661 from the end, with only a slight angle, the LED meters will still be visible from the end view. Can't wait to hear how this new unit sounds, regardless of the design changes.
Could be Brad. Maybe that pitch will be even better so you can see from both top and side...
QuoteCould be Brad. Maybe that pitch will be even better so you can see from both top and side...
I am no product delvelopment guy, but this seems fairly obvious....
Hi guys !
i'm a proud new owner of a PMD660 (busman mod).
Have to make some tests and i accept all advices and tips from the "older" users (recording level, batteries, PMD menu settings, ...).
You can PM me or post here (will read all the topic, be sure !!).
Thanx
fp
PS : Will use it with my AT831 (1/8 plug) that i'm satisfied with ... perhaps i will buy a cable to go via the XLR or modded them .... i'm mostly stealth and used to record with a NJB3.
tips from the "older" users (recording level, batteries, PMD menu settings, ...).
tips from the "older" users (recording level, batteries, PMD menu settings, ...).
Make sure you use the Shift-Lock, function it comes in handy.
Enjoy
New Busman 660 owner here. Just been playing around with it at the house. Anybody run any mics w/o the pad? I have some naks that are naturally pretty quiet, was curious if there is any experience amongst the team here, any negative effects not using the pad (noise)?.
Thanks
Nick
I also noticed that clicking noise on a quiet acoustic show, but never had heard of it being from the 660 itself, sounded almost like a cieling fan or something.
Nick
Did anyone really pin point the cause of the ticking noise some pmd660 owners have had?Never have had any ticking on any recording.
Does anybody know where to get the PMD Marker Edit software, i posted in the computer help forums and never heard anything. I know there is software, somewhere, that if you put the markers in manually in a recording, like during playback, which i did, that i can pull them off in the same manner, track by track instead of retracking> any help appreciated. ThanksI have a PMD660 software disc that came with the machine
Nick
^ Is it possible to upload that anywhere? I've looked all over marantz, and that other one D&M pro i think, can't find a link at all. It'd be much appreciated.
What external batteries are you using? I just have 9v dvd batt's right now
I run a 660 with phantom power and I think my mics draw more current than the mce86. I use duracell 2650 and Sanyo 2700 AA batteries, charge with a Lacross charger. I get at least 5 hours on a single set of batteries...
yes, they are nimh rechargable batteries. They are by far the most reliable and long running battery you can use for the PMD660.
^ Is it possible to upload that anywhere? I've looked all over marantz, and that other one D&M pro i think, can't find a link at all. It'd be much appreciated.
What external batteries are you using? I just have 9v dvd batt's right now
I use a Tekkeon at the 5v setting. I accidentally used a 9v dvd battery a few weeks ago and my 660 didn't like it.
Any good 5v external battery anyone know of at $50 and below?
[/quot
Just picked up a Anker battery pack off ebay for $60. 14400mah 1 DC output 9 or 12v AND 2 usb 5v output with all adaptors needed to hook up the 660. Charge the battery first and let run till it drains empty. Then recharge to full capacity. works grate for festivals....
Any good 5v external battery anyone know of at $50 and below?