For those saying the R-09HR , why would you vote for the R-09HR over the PCM-D50?
I have an R-09 and a D50 and the D50 is so quiet that I prefer it over the R-09. To me, it's worth the bulk.
You're talking line level in, right? If so that's very interesting. I see you also have the Fostex FR-2LE. Would you say the difference between the noise of the R-09HR line in and D50 line is, is a bigger difference than the D50 mic in and the FR-2LE mic in?
Seeing as you have all 3 of these units, I'd really love your opinion so I'll explain a little more. I was actually thinking of having the FR-2LE as my serious recorder, and a smaller option for when I need to travel lighter, but hopefully also good quality. If you only had your Fostex, and you needed what I do, would you buy the R-09HR, the D50, or a different unit?
I never really have done a side-by-side yet of the Fostex and the D50. I started out with the R-09, then purchased the D50 for the digi-in bit bucket and decided I wanted to open recording with an all-in-one, so I opted for the Fostex getting it modded by Busman.
When I patch into a board, I like the mobility of the R-09 and D50.
I like the build quality of the D50. It's sturdy and has some weight to it. I like the "dial" gain control, just like the old Sony DAT portables. The buttons are easy to navigate. I find the R-09 more cumbersome to operate and the R-09 has a build quality something close to Fisher Price. I will say though that the build on the R-0HR is much improved. For me when I stealth, size doesn't tend to be an issue. Most venues I attend don't have metal detectors and I can walk into the venue with no pat down. Thus the D50 fits me perfectly. Obviously though, the smaller the better when you are dealing with tougher venues.
Digi-in with the D50 is nice.