After a long hiatus from taping, I ordered new 4660 mics and should have them soon. I'm now researching options for a smaller recorder—and preferably one with 32-bit float.
My former setup: DPA 4060 -> Church CA-9100 > Zoom H2
The mics terminated with MicroDot connectors, and the new mics will be MicroLock. Never used an adapter—the preamp was built for MicroDot. And the Zoom H2 was purchased in 2008; I used the Line In (1/8" jack) to connect to the preamp.
I'm unsure about compatibility and capability. For instance, the Zoom F3 would meet my requirement for 32 bit and is certainly less bulky than the H2, but I believe the F3 just has XLR inputs. Sure, I could buy an adapter for MicroLock to XLR, but then the F3 is my preamp and I don't believe that's optimal (I read in another thread that this might work for 4061/4661 mics, but not ideal for 4060/4660).
Lots of buzz about the Deity PR-4; that appears to have a 3.5mm line-in option, but the 32-bit capability is mono only. I was going to add shipping was delayed—though I now see word that B&H has it in stock.
So if I want a small recorder with the 32-bit float option (and don't want to buy a new preamp), what are my best options? If I'm reading the specs correctly, the Tascam DR-10L Pro appears to be a match for my specs. But upon further reading of threads, the DR-10L Pro is also mono only? And the levels are comparatively lower than other manufacturers' 32-bit recorders.
I'm beginning to wonder if aiming for 32 bit isn't worth the hassle. Given my preamp and mics limiting some recorder options, any recommendations? I'll add that I don't record anything crazy loud.
My current hunch is to choose between the DR-10L Pro and Deity PR-4, and then test 24 bit versus 32 bit. A smaller recorder that works with my other gear is the priority. Thanks.
The PR2 is 32bit mono only, but the pr4 is 32bit stereo. That said, it's also significantly larger. The main use (that I see anyway) for a pr4 is a 4 channel AES recorder with something like a pair of sonosax sxm2d2s
if you are looking for a semi small 32Bit recorder that utilizes the 1/8" input then I would suggest the Tascam FR-AV2
you can also check out the ZOOM H1 XLR or Tascam DR-05XP or 07-XP which are less expensive and offer less features
Do you specifically want to get rid of the CA-9100 so you are smaller footprint? MicroLock is backwards compatible to MicroDot so you could keep using the CA-9100 and then whatever 32-bit recorder you want.
https://www.dpamicrophones.com/campaign/microlock/