Not that I doubt the reliability of the unit, but what happens if another format like DSD or its successor really catches on? Seems unrealistic to think PCM will really remain the dominant format for a lifetime.
That's the best part.. Sound Devices would just offer a DSD a/d board if there was demand. They already did a field upgrade of the a/d to fix a bug. It was an easy swap. They are constantly doing development and adding features to the software. The ability to record to external firewire devices is another great example. That required a hardware upgrade to the firewire board. It is free. Other companies would put those features into a new model instead of upgrading. That would drive down the resale of the old models. Planned obsolescence.
The 7xx is a platform with great service. The upgrades are a big reason why pros buy and keep them.
The FR2LE looks like a pretty good box but, duh, the idiots couldn't even fathom putting a hold switch on it. Where's the firmware upgrade that allows a button combo to act as a hold? Did Korg ever release something like that for the MR1000? Or do you have to wait and buy the MR1100?
Edit: Look at the usage and desirability of "vintage" mics today and the usage and desirability of "vintage" recorders today. It sure seems like mics tend to hold their value and utility a lot longer.
True. But recorder technology has reached a bit of a plateau. Just as those mics you mention reached a plateau that made them desirable for many many years.
99.XXXX% of people find redbook pcm or LPs to be adequate. How small is the X? 2 channel PCM will be around for a LONG time. There is nothing else on the horizon. Look at how many people stick with 2 channel for music and don't care about surround. I don't record at 24/192 but could. How big is the 24/192 playback market? DSD is no longer "new news". Sony/Phillips keep a death grip on SACD.
PCM and DVD/A are more than adequate for the upcoming iPod generation. And the baby boomers are losing their hearing.
The r09 sounds great and is very reliable.. As Richard says, you can always glue a pigtail in or solder it right to the board in place of the original jack. Pretty bulletproof after that.