Topic: Advice wanted on upgrade from JB3...

[newscane]

I've been using a JB3 since I started taping about 5 years ago.  Since I upgraded desktop computers, to one running WIn7 a few years back, things have gotten a little more complicated (since there are no drivers for Win7).  I have to dump to my netbook via USB 1.1 (no firewire on the netbook, and the JB3 doesn't have USB 2 because it has Firewire), then copy to my desktop (unless I'm tracking in the field)... needless to say it's a bit of a pain.  I've also noticed that it doesn't always want to connect to a computer -- sometimes I have to hit the reset button to get it to connect.

I have Avantone CK1 mics and a UA-5 in front of the JB3.  Happy with the mics (don't have enough money to make a mic upgrade worthwhile), and I'm good with the UA-5 unless I get a recorder with a good enough preamp to use instead.

Any suggested recorders, given this situation?  I'd like to spend around $300.  It looks like the DR-100mkII would fit the bill.  There's also the MTII, although I've also heard I should steer clear.  Any others I should take a look at?  (And, if I get a recorder that includes a preamp, can I get anything for the UA-5 these days?)

[yltfan]

Former JB3 user here, you are going to be so much happier with a new recorder! Lots of options under $300 if you don't need the p48. Everyone is going to recommend the Sony M-10, and I won't disagree with that, but I like my new Edirol R-05 plenty, and got a great deal on it.
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/R05/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=PPC&utm_campaign=recording&utm_term=roland_r-05&adpos=1t1&gclid=CIL48-yxuK8CFY0BQAodoiZ4jw

[newscane]

Former JB3 user here, you are going to be so much happier with a new recorder! Lots of options under $300 if you don't need the p48. Everyone is going to recommend the Sony M-10, and I won't disagree with that, but I like my new Edirol R-05 plenty, and got a great deal on it.
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/R05/?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=PPC&utm_campaign=recording&utm_term=roland_r-05&adpos=1t1&gclid=CIL48-yxuK8CFY0BQAodoiZ4jw

I was thinking about the M-10, but it doesn't have digital in (and neither does the R-05).  I would sort of prefer digital in, unless the ADC on the new recorder is going to do a better job than the UA-5.

[newplanet7]

If you plan on dropping the UA5 get the DR100MKII for it's pres/and phantom and $300 budget. It's a no brainer IMO.
Tonedeaf and a few others have ran direct mics~> Recorder with no problems.

[flipp]

Another option is a used Fostex FR2-LE. No digi in but very good pres. Has 48v phantom power. ebay prices in the $225-$250 range.

[poppag76]

Buy this in the yardsale.  I have the busman modded version now but ran my mics straight into the box before and it was awesome.  You will end up using this box for the next 5 years.

http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=152988.0

[jbell]

If your stuck on the digi in your options are limited for $300!  I'd sell the UA5 and get another pre and M10, but the is just my opinion.