Recorders	Microphones/Transducers	Bat detectors	Shock-mounts
	CompactFlash	Overview	Playback	Cables
	Hard-drive	Shotgun	Headphones	Protective cases
	R-DAT	Parabolic reflector	Speakers	Additional
	MiniDisc	Omni-directional	Amplifiers	Helpful Reads
	Analog	Uni-directional	Accessories	Vendors
		Infrasonic	Preamps	Inquiries
		Hydrophones

These recorders are relatively new to the portable audio recorder scene. They offer many of the features available on cassette, R-DAT, and MiniDisc recorders, but they utilize standard computer CompactFlash memory cards or a Microdrive as storage medium.

CompactFlash cards are available in a variety of sizes, ranging from 512MB-16GB. Large memory cards are continually dropping in price, and 4GB cards are a popular size for recordng these days.

The real beauty of this recording device/format is the ability to create high-quality recordings stored in a robust format with no moving parts. These can be easily edited within the device and quickly downloaded into a computer.

The Marantz PMD-670 ($899, pictured above) offers many of the same professional features included on other industry-standard recorders. Included are balanced XLR-style microphone inputs, 48-volt phantom power, noise filters, internal speaker, 2-second pre-record buffer, one-touch record, and a large backlit display for metering. Digital audio in/out is accessible via RCA connectors (S/PDIF format). Line level audio in/out is unbalanced via RCA connectors. Available data/sampling rates range from a low of 32kbps/mp2 through highest quality at 48kHz/16-bit linear PCM. Audio files are easily transferred directly into a computer by simply placing the recorded card or Microdrive into a computer-attached card reader. Additionally, a computer data interface is provided that can communicate with a standard USB-compatible port on either Macintosh or Windows-based platforms. Field power options include removable, NiCad or NiMH rechargeable batteries, or 8-standard AA alkaline batteries.

The Nagra ARES-BB+ is the favorite recorder of many serious field recordists. It offers long battery life, excellent gain, is compact, light and portable. We look forward to the release of a new recorder, the Nagra LB, coming out later this year.

Slightly different variations from The Fostex Corporation are also available. The Fostex FR-2 Field Recorder came out in 2004, followed by the Fostex FR2-LE ($599). This machines offer up to 192 kHz sampling 24-bit operation, making it an ideal choice for recording situations that demand the highest quality, uncompressed data format possible.

The machine features a 10-second pre-record buffer, balanced microphone inputs via standard XLR-style connectors, 48-volt phantom power, generously-sized LCD display for high visibility in the field, and a tough, rigid housing to withstand the rigors of field use. Of particular note is the "file per take" and "auto take naming" systems to help organize and manage sound files within the device.

Recording media supported are PCMCIA: compact-flash or ATA Flash card, and ATA-type hard disk. Sampling rates from 22.05 kHz-192 kHz are supported. Bit depths of either 16 or 24. Full SMPTE time-code is also an option. Field powering is via 4 AA style batteries (NiMH recommended). The unit can also be powered externally via 12-volts DC (special connector required).

File transfers to either Mac or PC are easily accomplished via standard on-board USB connection. Digital audio I/O is via XLR connectors in both the AES/EBU and S/PDIF formats.