fyi this is my recent correspondence with Doug:
Hi Doug, thanks for your note last week regarding FR-2LE availability. As I see your mods won't be available until June, how does the unit sound right out of the box for music recording? Any caveats such as brickwalling or overloading? How do the stock preamps sound? I've read a few good reports but none regarding live music recording. I'm debating whether to grab one now and then send back later for the mods, or just wait until next month.
If you have any prelimary findings regarding these questions please let me know what you think when you have a minute.
Thanks!
Keith
Hi! It is not bad but uses the same op amps as the M1, TCD100 and Stock 660 among others use. 30 cent JRC 2122s and JRC 2115s occupy the signal path. They also use low grade caps in the signal path and lots of them. In short, it measures well by 1930's audio standards (THD+N) but sounds like cloudy coffee. I think it will be ok for interviews and the like but not so good for "ear critical" applications like music, ambient/FX and nature sounds. The good thing is it has room to work with so I know what I can do with it. So far no bad news in users reports or signs of early failure or manufacturing problems so I feel good that it will be a solid performer. If it had Digi I/O it would be a giant killer!
Peace...Doug