Most of the suggestions are useful, but some ONLY apply to MD/DAT and most other mini-decks.
The R-09 is one deck where going in MIC input (NOT LINE) works better ALL THE TIME with all types of especially
small external battery powered mics, and can power some mics directly without external battery for some types of recording if remembering to
turn on the MIC POWER in the menu.
Suggest using MIC input with your type of mic system, AND if using 24bit depth (also use 44.1K verses 48K sample rate as this is way better for later making CD), recording level can be much lower at -12 to -6 dB without quality loss or noise recording amplified venue.
Proof of input ability in R-09 review that should make some settings easier to understand at:
www.sonicstudios.com/r-09revw.htm#inputsProof of deck's adequate mic input noise floor recording at -12 dB average VU for amplified concerts even with
very low output type mic is with recordings made and posted on TS page:
http://taperssection.com/index.php?PHPSESSID=dc5cb19c3eae03a2a98a47d2a8b6b290&topic=83254.0 Have fun learning, taping, listening, and SHARING your recordings!