Re: MD: Light years (was Re: comparing sony mzr55 w/sharp 702/722)
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === In case you can't tell, that was a tongue sticking out down there. Certain statements to the list (oh, let's say, there can be a difference in sound based on the blanks) simply means one gets crucified by list members who would rather not agree with anyone but themselves. Most of the time people can make kinder, more neutral statements that say what they want just by adjusting their wording. If any one of you, by some magical means, become fluent in Japanese and visit some of their MD and audio-related forums, and see how carefully some of them construct their arguments, you'll see why I'm saying all this. And if my "light year" layman terminology troubles so many of you, I quit this list. It's as simple as that. Leon on 4/15/01 9:52 AM, Jeffrey Scorsone at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: === = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === Actually I think you sense the fact that on this list we constantly debate and argue to get the facts out vs. common misunderstandings. fact: a light year is a unit of distance myth: mp3 sounds just as good as Minidisc fact: mailing lists attract arguments over all kinds of things myth: telling someone to shove it is a mature response to discovering that someone might have been wrong. fact: I hadn't posted in a while and this seemed like as good a reason as any. myth: It was actually a good reason fact: I'm bored! -Jeffrey On Sat, 14 Apr 2001, Leon wrote: === = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === Oh WoW, I sense oppression! Shove it!! :P Leon on 4/14/01 12:24 PM, PrinceGaz at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Blink for light years? Light Years?!? Grrr, I hate it when peeps say that as if it were a unit of time :-) PrinceGaz. (snip) things. The indicator can blink for light years while it manages to record, (snip) Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: ATRAC VERSIONS
Sony doesn't say, and now it is impossible to find out unless Sony tells us. The reason for this is that Sony now uses different ATRAC DSP chips for the portables and the decks. We can safely assume, however, that it is not type-R, because it would have been an important advantage over other portables. Leon on 4/14/01 3:52 AM, Lion Shmulevich at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi, I was wondering what kind of ATRAC version does r90 and r900 have? Also I would like to know what are the differences. thanks Lion Shmulevich, == E-mail : [EMAIL PROTECTED] Tel : +972-3-917799 (051-917799) - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: comparing sony mzr55 w/sharp 702/722
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === My point is that the battery indicator is very unpredictable. It fluctuates with the power on/off of the spindle, the read/write action, and many other things. The indicator can blink for light years while it manages to record, or appear to have 1/4 and suddenly run out. Compare it to any Panasonic and you'll see what I mean. Leon on 4/14/01 5:24 AM, Stuart Howlette at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This email was delivered to you by The Free Internet, a Business Online Group company. http://www.thefreeinternet.net --- No indication of when it runs out? The batter level indicator does that, but the thing is, with around 30 hours playback on just the gumpack battery the reason (i assume), u aint getting an indicator of when its gonna run out is cos it hasn't run out, simple. -- Stuart Howlette "There are many questions in life, but is the right answer only correct because the majority believe in it?" [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://minidisc.sphosting.com http://minidisc.sphosting.com/personal/ -- - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Light years (was Re: comparing sony mzr55 w/sharp 702/722)
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === Oh WoW, I sense oppression! Shove it!! :P Leon on 4/14/01 12:24 PM, PrinceGaz at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Blink for light years? Light Years?!? Grrr, I hate it when peeps say that as if it were a unit of time :-) PrinceGaz. (snip) things. The indicator can blink for light years while it manages to record, (snip) Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: . max # of tracks
254. on 4/7/01 3:52 PM, . at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: hello- anyone know the max number of tracks one can put on MD? - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: I can't stand the NOISE!!!!
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === Hey, Regarding the problem: It's a Sony! :o) The operational noise of the mechanism is actually unique to Sony portables. Recent Sony models have spindles that run up to 2800rpm (the standard range of MD spindle speed is between 400-900rpm). All Sharp models to date run at lower spindle speeds (no more than 1350rpm), and I can say my Sharps are definitely very quiet compared to my Sony (R900). The current Panasonic recorder (SJ-MR200) is quite loud, however it can be made to run at lower speeds to cut down on the noise. If you gotta return the thing, you gotta return it, IMHO. I think there's a Sharp model that you could connect to a PC, but I'm not sure about the details. Leon on 4/4/01 6:53 PM, Dr. George A. Themelis at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Help Friends! I have been in this list since last year, even though I must confess, I do not read the digests... I fell in love with minidiscs and have been busy recording sound bites for my future *stereo* slide presentations. A year and a few months ago I got an AIWA AM-F70 and have been having a blast, recording and playing back MDs... but last week it decided to quit on me. I don't blame it. After dropping it in water and down hard rocks a couple of times, I figured I had abused it enough and it was time to get a new one. (The problem: Comes with "Disc Error") So I rushed and ordered a Sony MZ-R70. It came last night... I ripped the box with great excitement. I put a disc in and... OH MY GOSH, WHAT IS THIS TERRIBLE NOISE It sounds like an old clunker in desperate need of a repair. I thought for sure this machine was broken, until I read on the instruction booklet: "Note on Mechanical noise: The recorder gives off mechanical noise while operating, which is cased by the power-saving system of the recorder and it is not a problem." NOT A PROBLEM Who are you kidding now? IT IS A BIG PROBLEM. You cannot operate this thing is public without everyone and their uncle knowing about it. EVEN WORSE: I cannot use my beloved "T" microphone because it picks up all this terrible noise. The instructions write: "The microphone might pick up the operating sound of the recorder itself." Yeah... tell me about it! "Use the microphone away from the recorder in such cases." Easy for you to say Mr. Sony! Anyway... I am VERY DISAPPOINTED because this is a "feature" that I do not like. My AIWA did not have it. I do not want it. My questions for you: - How do other MD players/recorders do in respect to noise? Before buying the AIWA (a year and a half ago) I read all the reviews and do not remember this even being an issue. - How should I handle the return of this monster? The good people in PlanetMinidisc should not be penalized if Sony cannot make a decent product. They say "return packaging intact"... but this came in these ugly plastic jobies that must be ripped off to be opened. - What should I get now? I would like to use my computer to transfer and store sound bites and then transfer them from the computer to a MD in a specific order for a specific slide program. That's why I got this Sony... because it case with a digital thing (PC) that sounded like what I needed. I realize that some of these issues might have been discussed here but as I said, I have been too busy to keep up with the digests, so any help will be greatly appreciated! Thank you! George Themelis Cleveland OH USA - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Another april fools thing
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === LOL ! As long as whoever reads it doesn't understand Japanese! :-) Leon on 4/2/01 8:06 AM, Stuart Howlette at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This email was delivered to you by The Free Internet, a Business Online Group company. http://www.thefreeinternet.net --- So you thought the MZR-9000 was daft, wait till ya see this! http://www.minidisc.org/mztst1.html -- Stuart Howlette "There are many questions in life, but is the right answer only correct because the majority believe in it?" [EMAIL PROTECTED] http://minidisc.sphosting.com http://minidisc.sphosting.com/personal/ -- - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Silly MDCP
Hahaha! :o) Got the Sony Drive thing too! See the bottom of this page for Sharp's 1987 implementation of a TV on a cassette walkman: http://www11.freeweb.ne.jp/art/savage99/ocas/sharphs.htm Leon on 4/1/01 11:52 AM, Stuart Howlette at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This email was delivered to you by The Free Internet, a Business Online Group company. http://www.thefreeinternet.net --- Seen the April Fools Joke on MDCP yet? If not, its here http://www.minidisc.org/sony_mzr9000.htm - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: MZ-R70, Best Earbuds
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === The Etymotic ER-4 is worth every penny of the $269 (or more) that you spend on it. Them, especially the 4S version, are extremely accurate, but not at the expense of easily causing fatigue. This easily distinguishes it from a bunch of other headphones. Also, the level of isolation it provides is great. This is very handy for bus and plane rides, and easily outperforms any "active" noise-cancelling headphones IMO. An important thing to consider with the ER-4 is that it's NOT for everyone. Not everyone sees the point with such a relatively complicated phone (that you definitely need the manual). The ER-4, being a canal phone, is also different in terms of bass. You don't feel it, but hear it. In a nutshell, the ER-4 is heaven, but it's not what you automatically assume/understand heaven to be. I personally don't use my ER-4S all the time, but love it all the same. And no, there is no good all-rounder that is immediately cheaper than the ER-4. The EX70 excels in convenience - putting the EX70 on is no sweat, they're comfortable and don't fall out. The EX70 actually sounds all right. There's a definite sense of soundstage. However, it can be very shrill-sounding, unbalanced as it is. If you check out the forum at Headwize, people have come up with some fix for that. I have modified my EX70 and find it much nicer. Leon on 3/31/01 5:26 PM, las at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I have to start off by saying that I respect Len's opinions very highly. A few years ago in a personal correspondence between us, he correctly predicted the success of solid state players over the Mini Disc. I still don't comprehend the stupidity of the American consumer, but it is an unfortunate fact that so called MP3 players are selling very well while you can't even buy a Sony 900 in the US. There seems to be a unanimous opinion that the Etymotic ear plugs are the finest you can get and many people believe that they are even better than any of the full sized headphones. But at $269.00 (USD), there must be a set costing under $100 that some one makes that are close?? $269 seems a kind of outrageous price to me for a set of headphones! You can buy a very decent pair of speakers for that price. I made an impulse purchase of a par of Koss ear buds that have these soft "rubber" cones that slide over a tube and cost $19.99. I can't remember the name They are yellow, black and blue with a mute switch (why not a true volume control?). In my opinion they sound really bad and are only suitable for spoken word. But there must be something out there for about $75 dollars that comes close the the $269.00 Etymotics?? NO?? Len never abuses this site. Even though he has a business that offers many products that are of use to us, he only suggests things when people are looking for a specific item that he sells. And he contributes much more to this list in advice that offer's him no financial gain. Larry Len Moskowitz wrote: Chris Smart [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Ok, a related question, what are the *BEST* earbuds, forgetting all about cost? ... In my opinion, the Etymotic ER-4S, ER-4B and ER-4P in-ear 'phones are among the best available at any price (including the Grado RS-1, HP-1 and Sennheiser HD-600). I hope this helped! Len Moskowitz Binaural and StealthMics (tm), Cables, Interfaces Core Soundhttp://www.stealthmicrophones.com Teaneck, New Jersey http://www.core-sound.com [EMAIL PROTECTED] Tel: 201-801-0812, FAX: 201-801-0912 - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: OT: Aiwa to cut its work force by 1/2
Hey all, Following the recent AM-F90 discussion, I found this Japanese news release: http://www.aiwa.co.jp/exhibi/new_prod/2001/010326_jinji.htm What it says is as follows: Since last July, Aiwa has been implementing a system of 8 product development groups, 3 "core" factories, and dropping 900 employees from a total of 11,000. However, a number of factors have caused declining profits. Some of the key changes Aiwa is implementing beginning with the new fiscal year (starts April 1): - They will be deleting unprofitable products from their line up, and concentrating on profitable ones. By fiscal 2002, Aiwa's sales is expected to shrink by 30% (from today's approx. 300 billion yen). - The technological tie with Sony will be reinforced and utilized in new products. Aiwa's own manufacturing will be decreased, with only one main factory left in Japan. - It is estimated that, not including the manufacturing division, Aiwa will cut 30% of its work force. Details will be released on April 26. Meanwhile, a news article (http://www.nikkei.co.jp/news/sangyo/20010327CAHI354626.html) says that the total work force of about 10,000 today will be halved. Analog stereo products are the main products to be deleted, as opposed to DVD, MP3 players, which they plan to boost through using Sony's technology. I wanted to post this because it fits with the idea that Aiwa will be increasingly cloning Sony products in the near future. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Looking inside the portables
Hey all, Just in case this hasn't been investigated, I opened up some of my MD equipments and looked at the chips. These are what I've observed: - Sharp MD-MT831 My Sharp 831's ATRAC chip is LR37812. For reference, I have a Kenwood DMC-K5 (Sharp ST521 clone, hence Sharp ATRAC 6), and it has LR37811. Apart from that, the 831 has an Oki DRAM (MSM51V17405D). There is Rohm's BD6603KVT, an MD-specific driver IC. It controls spindle, thread, focus, tracking, (recording?) head up/down, etc. Other Sharp chips that I've been able to find online: 1R3R58M (RF amp) 1R3R59N (audio amp) 1R3M12N (DC/DC converter, increases/decreases voltage) There are a couple Sharp chips that I haven't been able to track down. There's still no knowing what kind of A/D D/A converter the 831 uses. - Sony MZ-R900 The ATRAC chip is CXD2670GA. There are several Motorola chips (XPC18A22FC, XPC18A32FC, SC111257FC) and a TI chip (07C22XJ ; SN761057) that I couldn't find info on. - Kenwood DMC-L5 The L5 uses Sony ATRAC (CXD2665GA) - hereby, we know for sure that the L5 is not a Sharp clone. This seems to be a chip from the Sony R90/91 generation (I think the Sony E80 has 2662GA). Rohm's BD6606KVT is used in the L5. The difference between this and the 831 Rohm chip is that this one doesn't control the up/down of head. There's also an NEC chip that I couldn't identify. - Panasonic SJ-MJ88 At the heart of the MJ88 is Panasonic's latest generation of micro-computers, the MNG101C32GAE. It has 128Kx8bit ROM, has internal flash memory, no EPROM, has ADC driver (?). The programming language used for this chip is C. Based on Matsushita's news release, power consumption of this micro-computer is down to as low as 50% of its predecessor. There are no Sanyo chips in the MJ88, as far as I can see, unlike previous Panasonic MD players. Rohm's BD6640KVT is used in the MJ88. This is also an MD-specific driver IC. The 6640 has software switching (?), the 6606 doesn't. These are highly technical, hopefully they'll be useful in one way or another. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: End of the quirky Aiwa's?
I read online somewhere about Aiwa losing money, so I checked their financial reports here: http://www.aiwa.co.jp/english/index_e.html In a nutshell, Aiwa's first loss in 13 years was experienced in fiscal 1999, and they continued to lose money in the first half of fiscal 2000. Aiwa estimated that it will lose money all the way through fiscal 2000 (ends at the end of March). Shortage of component supply, especially the chips that are key to downsizing equipments, was cited as one of the reasons for the loss. Assuming that this holds enough significance, going for cloning probably relieves them of the pressure of procurement. The F80, for instance, uses Sony ATRAC and Philips A/D D/A converter, seen in the pictures at the bottom of this page. http://www.puwa-net.com/minidisc/mdworld/m-binshi/f80_k.html Leon on 3/23/01 6:57 AM, Eric Woudenberg, Minidisc.org Editor at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Norbert (indirectly) forwarded this link for Aiwa's English AM-F90 page to me: URL:http://www.aiwa.co.jp/english/exhibi/new_p2001/am-f90e.htm Actually I'm a bit sad to see it, Aiwa's were always somewhat unusual in their feature set (e.g. AGC *AND* on the fly recording level control, program play mode, backlit main body display, etc.) and I thought of them as the real "hacker" (or "MD nerd") machines. So, does this spell the end of Aiwa-unique units? Judging by the initial monthly production numbers (Aiwa AM-F90: 3000 units, Sony MZ-R900: 50,000 units) they must not have very high expectations for it -- or maybe Aiwa's will now be unique by being rare! Rick - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: headphones (resent)
Hey,
If you haven't already, go to the forum at www.headwize.com , and read the
forum. You should get a feeling of the concensus on certain models. The EX70
is a hot topic right now, for pieces of Scotch tape seems to relieve some of
its problems...
I personally don't recommend anything with Sony's groove design (228, 238,
268), because they seem to make the sound unnecessarily warm. The EX70
doesn't sound quite balanced, has excessive lows and shrill highs. A lot of
EX70 owners have reported that these problems been fixed with more recent
productions, but this is unconfirmed. I'm getting my second pair of EX70
today.
Sorry for being hasty... I'm running out of time here.
Leon
on 3/19/01 9:27 AM, Edward at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
I am resending this because it does not seem that it got through, although
my second post also about headphones did. Thats computers for you :(
Thank you for all of the useful, albeit conflicting, responses to my
questions so far.
I know some of the questions here are similar to my second post ("more
headphones") and so have already been answered, but the questions about the
big "proper" headphones are still relevent. Anyway I go on too much...
---
Hi,
I hope this is not off topic, although I suppose its more related to
mindiscs than the AOL support forum this list seems to be turning into :P ,
but I need some replacement headphones, both in-ear and the big ones that
completely go over your ear (whatever there proper name is I don't know :).
I do not really want to spend more than about 40 for the in-ear ones, after
all, I am bound to lose/break them eventually :) and I do not want to spend
more than about 60 - 75 for the big headphones. I would prefer the
headphones to not let too much sound out.
Has anyone got any suggestions?
What are the (in-ear) Sony MDR-ED268LP and the MDR-EX70LP headphones like?
I saw some decent big headphones on the sony usa website (the CD series) ,
but they were all $150 to $699, which I thought was a bit much for just a
pair of headphones, but maybe thats just me :P
Or are Sony not the best ppl to buy headphones from?
Oh, and btw I need to be able to get the headphones form the UK
Thanks
Edward
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MD: Panasonic's first MDLP portable
picture: http://www.matsushita.co.jp/corp/news/official.data/data.dir/jn010315-1/jn01 0315-1-1.jpg News release: http://www.matsushita.co.jp/corp/news/official.data/data.dir/jn010315-1/jn01 0315-1.html The SJ-MJ78 will be launched on March 25, supposedly targeted at high school students and the 20-something group. Open price. Maximum playback with LP4 is 104 hours (world's longest). 41,54,65-hour playback on rechargeable in SP,LP2,LP4. Audio section has identical spec to all Panasonic portables since the MR200 (3.5+3.5mW, 2-step S-XBS). Size is identical to the earlier MJ80 (12.7mm thick). Like the MJ80, it is possible to attach a hand strap to the MJ78. The MJ78 also has "smart change" (draws in disc when the lid is closed, and one-touch eject). It seems that the MJ78 doesn't come with the charging stand - the specs say you need a separate adaptor in order to use AC power. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: My New Portable
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === Hey there! The J7R was my very first piece of MD equipment. My sample is very sturdy - works great even after several drops, months of eating dust, and losing the slot "door". It is also the best-sounding among all the MD portables I have. Enjoy! Leon on 3/15/01 10:34 AM, James Jarvie at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Greetings to all! I am excited about my new purchase, and wanted to share with you. I just got a Kenwood DMC-J7R (blue) for $130US. It was an open box buy (i.e. someone bought it and then returned it). So far I love it! I bought it primarily because it has a front-load which will allow me to use it in the car through the aux input on my CD head unit. You may recall that I was looking to run an MD changer through that, but Richard advised me that it wasn't going to work. Anyway, beside the fact that this has the slot-in loading, and a nice feel/look to it (I like things simple), it will be a nice change from my MT-15 because I know have a rechargeable LiIon battery and a remote. Also, my MT-15 (which is about 1/2 year old) was starting to worry me a bit: the screws were coming loose, and the unit was making more of a mechanical noise than I remembered. So using this unit will, hopefully, prolong the Sharp's life. If anyone has any info on the Kenwood that (s)he would like to pass along, please do so. James __ Do You Yahoo!? Yahoo! Auctions - Buy the things you want at great prices. http://auctions.yahoo.com/ - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Panasonic's first MDLP portable
The link got broken by text wrap. Let's try HTML email: a href="http://www.matsushita.co.jp/corp/news/official.data/data.dir/jn010315- 1/jn010315-1-1.jpg"__/a Or go to the news release page and click on the center-aligned blue icon (with __KB next to it). Leon on 3/15/01 12:41 PM, payvand at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: use the first link. right in the middle of the page is a link in blue. click it and the picture is there. the remote looks a little too bulky. On Thu, 15 Mar 2001, Stainless Steel Rat wrote: * Leon [EMAIL PROTECTED] on Thu, 15 Mar 2001 | picture: | http://www.matsushita.co.jp/corp/news/official.data/data.dir/jn010315-1/jn01 | 0315-1-1.jpg Not found. Check your cut-n-paste, please. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Panasonic's first MDLP portable
It's not titanium. Titanium is more expensive to make. Although Panasonic doesn't say, I would assume that magnesium alloy is used to achieve the MJ78's size and weight (62g by itself). It doesn't have titanium written on the face either :-) Leon on 3/15/01 3:07 PM, Chad Gombosi at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: http://www.matsushita.co.jp/corp/news/official.data/data.dir/jn010315-1/jn01 | 0315-1-1.jpg Not found. Check your cut-n-paste, please. Works fine for me, check *your* cut and paste. btw, even though it's titanium, it isn't that cool looking. Probably because of the big word, "Titanium" written on the face. That's pretty tacky. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sony Clie 700 uses ATRAC?
Yepp, I read Japanese. Happy to report that it's for audio playback. As you can see on that site, it comes with remote and clip headphones too. The Clie 700 can record in the usual ATRAC3 bit rates: about 120 minutes @ 132kbps, 160 min @ 105kbps, 240 @ 66kbps Playback for about 11 hours with display off; 3 with display on. Leon on 3/14/01 1:54 PM, Ed Heckman at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I was just checking out the specs on the Sony Clie 700 (their version of the Palm) that's supposed to be released on April 7th. On the specs page I found a VERY interesting little piece of text, "ATRAC3". Does anyone here read Japanese? Can you explain what this means? Here's the link: http://www.sony.co.jp/sd/ProductsPark/Consumer/PEG/PEG-N700C/spec.html Ed "What the" Heckman [EMAIL PROTECTED] +--+ | True power is knowing that you can, but you don't. | | -- Juliet Alicia Jarvis | +--+ - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: More on Sony Clie 700
If you check out this page it shows the audio playback display: http://www.sony.co.jp/sd/ProductsPark/Consumer/PEG/PEG-N700C/feature.html You can customize the jog dial to operate audio controls too. Many other functions of this PDA are similar to Sharp's new Zaurus (www.ezaurus.com), such as video playback, map (the new Zaurus has optional GPS) and digital camera. Leon on 3/14/01 1:54 PM, Ed Heckman at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I was just checking out the specs on the Sony Clie 700 (their version of the Palm) that's supposed to be released on April 7th. On the specs page I found a VERY interesting little piece of text, "ATRAC3". Does anyone here read Japanese? Can you explain what this means? Here's the link: http://www.sony.co.jp/sd/ProductsPark/Consumer/PEG/PEG-N700C/spec.html Ed "What the" Heckman [EMAIL PROTECTED] +--+ | True power is knowing that you can, but you don't. | | -- Juliet Alicia Jarvis | +--+ - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: LiIon cell for MDMT831?
The 831 is great - rather user-friendly and sounds better than many MD portables. Ithink it's best not to leave your 831 standing on the 2 longer sides (the sides where the mic in, AC jack and line in are). If you do that, often the pickup doesn't stay where it and will drop down to the bottom of the jackscrew it travels on. That doesn't happen to every unit, and is not unique to Sharp, but is useful in preventing excessive skipping. On the battery, I think only Sharp supplies the kind of Li-ion that can be used inside the 831. They actually don't always last (capacity does decrease with charge/discharge cycles). Hyperjack charges $55 + shipping for a battery *ek!* :-) http://www.hyperjack.net/accessories.htm Enjoy! Leon on 3/13/01 9:25 AM, Chris Smart at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi. I just ordered my first Minidisc unit, a Sharp MT831! I'm quite excited! *calms down* Anyway, I have a question about it's included LiIon battery ... is it available from anywhere besides Sharp Japan? Reading about LiIon cells, it sounds as if they last a good thousand charge/discharge cycles, but I'd still like to have a source for a replacement just in case. Anything else I should watch for with the 831 by the way? I plan on carrying it in some sort of padded bag most of the time, taking as good care of it as I can given very frequent use, ... what's likely to go bad on it eventually? Buttons? Thanks, Chris - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Longer than 80 minutes - is it possible?
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === The groove can't be tightened without rendering the disc incompatible with existing equipment - the gap between grooves on 80-minute discs are already at the lower limit of what Sony says MD equipments should be able to handle. A way of getting 90 minutes (or more?) would be to use an 80-minute disc and spin it at a lower speed. However, it seems that we don't have materials that would have the physical properties necessary to allow that. Leon on 3/11/01 11:22 PM, Simon Mackay at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hi everyone! Is it possible within the MD standard to make discs that go longer than 80 minutes in SP mode by tightening the "pre-groove" spiral on the disc? This could be interesting because I have heard a rumour being passed amongst retailers that there could be 90-minute MDs on the market. If the rumour proves true and someone starts to manufacture 90-minute MDs, you could have discs that go for 3 hours in mono or LP2 stereo or 6 hours in LP4 joint stereo. This would be enough to threaten Audio CD-R and most solid-state MP3-carrying media. With regards, Simon Mackay - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Aiwa's new MD player
First peek - Aiwa hasn't uploaded a news release yet: http://www.jij.co.jp/product/01-03-07/aiwa010307.html Tentative launch March 21, MSRP 34000 yen. The AM-HX200 has an all-titanium body. Titanium supposedly has double the surface strength of aluminium, which means the unit would be harder to scratch, etc. Aiwa's hallmark function of selecting track during playback is updated. On the HX200, if you view the track list during playback, the tracks will be arranged in the order of Japanese phonetic characters (a, ka, sa, ta, na, ha ma, ya, ra, wa, IIRC). The HX200 also has a sentence repeat function: Using any 0.5-second silence as an identifier, it will repeat the "sentence" 9 times. Good news: The HX200's headphone amp has 16mW output (not known if it's 8+8 or 16+16). "Digital tone processor" allows for bass/treble adjustment (-6 to +6). There's also the usual MDLP support, alarm function, program play, power save, as on previous Aiwa players. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: chopping off headphone jack
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === The R900 does not have a separate line out. The same jack is used and there's a "software" switch for switching between phones and line out. Also, if you plug in the remote, it would not switch to line out mode. Leon on 2/24/01 11:06 AM, John Small at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: On Thu, 22 Feb 2001 21:31:03 -0500, "Dan Scellen" [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: So, as PrinceGaz said, the question is whether or not the remote needs the 3.5mm (probably not), and whether or not the remote connectors are strong enough (probably). Go for it Niels. Personally I think the best soln is to not buy the E900, or return it, and go with an R900 that has a separate line out (I assume it does, as does my R50). Problem solved and some flexibility with the recorder is added. I don't use my R50 much for recording but it comes in handy enough to justify the additional $80-100 cost. -jts Arlington, TX - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: adjusting levels?
OK, assuming that the R90 operates like the R900, here's how: 1. While you press and hold down Pause button, slide the Rec switch. This puts the unit in pause. 2. Under the menu, go to RecVolume, and instead of AutoREC, select ManualREC. 3. Once you've done that, change rec level with the Menu jog dial. I don't have a R90, so I don't know how the level meter reads. Please search online reviews (like Brian Youn's reviews). 4. When you're ready to record, press pause and recording will start. Whenever possible, you should really adjust the level first, and start recording only when you've done that. Leon on 2/23/01 2:36 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: i have a sony MZS-R90 if that helps - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Panasonic goes MDLP with a catch...
http://www.matsushita.co.jp/corp/news/official.data/data.dir/jn010221-3/jn01 0221-3-1.jpg Panasonic's first MDLP product, a 3-CD/MD bookshelf system, will be released on March 1. However, it is, guess what... A clone of an existing JVC system. http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/audio_w/product/mini/image/mxs55md.jpg Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: best portable player
Hey, The ST70 is a more casual (more plasticky) version of the ST77. However, the online retailers may still charge a premium for it. Sony's MZ-E300 doesn't seem to be LP capable, so the best bet is probably to look at the MZ-E500. Yeah, I know Minidisco charges 250 bucks, but all the other LP models you can get is for about the same amount. Hyperjack charges: - $207 + $35 shipping for the same Sony E500; - $207 + $45 shipping for Kenwood DMC-M55; - $199 + $30 shipping for JVC XM-P2000. http://www.hyperjack.net/japanese.htm If you really can't afford to pay over $200, it'd be a good idea to wait for a couple of years and then come back and buy today's models. :-) Leon on 2/19/01 9:41 AM, John Small at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I'm looking for a portable MD player that will do LP mode. The products I see are few and the price is high ... Frankly I think anything over $200 I consider too high for a reader, and I'd like some $100 options. I have checked the T listing for these and Minidisco. I wonder what the Sharp ST-70 will go for? Anyone have a recommendation? Thanks. -jts Arlington, TX - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: best portable player
The problem is, if you don't pay over $200, you're not going to get what you want right now. If you can't find a solution within the MD format, then the solution is simple: DON'T USE MD. Leon on 2/19/01 12:54 PM, John Small at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: On Mon, 19 Feb 2001 11:33:57 -0800, Leon [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: If you really can't afford to pay over $200, it'd be a good idea to wait for a couple of years and then come back and buy today's models. :-) Would you pay over $200 for an MD player? -jts Arlington, TX - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: MDLP units
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === In Japan, Pioneer and Panasonic haven't released any MDLP equipment. I think all the rest have MDLP items in their lineup. Kenwood has been particularly enthusiastic, adding MDLP to all their boomboxes and small bookshelf systems. From what I could gather online, the 440 isn't sold in Japan. There is a possibility that it is sold, just not listed on the websites. Leon on 2/18/01 1:32 PM, David W. Tamkin at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Ivica Petrovic asked, | does anybody have any explanation about a lack of MDLP home MD units by | other big manufacturers ( Yamaha, Pioneer, Technics etc.)? Several months | after introduction, there are no other MDLP home machine; the Sony is all | alone in the field. Is there any new MDLP units by Technics, Yamaha, Denon, | Pioneer on a horizon? According to T's MDLP equipment list at http://members.nbci.com/md_data/MDLP1.html, Kenwood, Onkyo, and Denon have home decks out. (Strangely, the list doesn't mention the Sony MDS-JE440.) | P.S. Maybe it ( LP) doesn't work well?? It seems to work well enough on my MDS-JB940. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: New Panasonic MD player
Hello there! http://www.panasonic.co.jp/avc/audio/web/pick_up/mj80/mj80.html The SJ-MJ80 has identical specs to the MJ88. Instead of the "shrinkable" top lid, the "smart eject" found on the MJ77 is featured. The only major difference is that it has "shell lock", the type of lock that's been used on Panasonic cassette players for years. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Delete using Remote in R900
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === "erase" never shows up under the remote's EDIT menu, so I'd say no. Try for yourself. :-) Leon on 2/9/01 8:36 AM, Taky Cheung at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I have a R900. Does anybody know if I can delete a track using the remote control? Thanks TAKY CHEUNG http://hottaky.com [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: international shipping (No MD related content)
One thing some stores do is to mark the items as a gift. Hyperjack customers are probably quite familiar with this one... unwrapping gifts and stuff, kudos to them. :) I never got charged anything by the US customs though, even without the above "gift" trick. It may or may not be the same with the Brits. :) Leon on 2/7/01 11:27 AM, stories at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I'm after some information regarding buying things from other countries hopping theirs someone here who may be able to help me. I'm in the UK (England) looking to purchases something from a "webshop" in the USA. There "International orders" info says: "However any taxes, tariffs, Fees Etc. imposed by your country, is out of our hands. We have no way, nor the time to figure these costs if any." So my question is, what fee etc are, if any charged on items being shipped to England from the USA. (and how do you get around 'em.) - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Difference
Actually, I've been moving away from MD towards analog cassette and DAT. It's not that I think MD is not good enough; actually when I look at other formats, I get this "ah, no wonder MD can be popular" feeling. I guess there's this "audiophile" part of me (in quotation marks because I'm not sure of what I am) acting up right now :-) Leon on 2/5/01 12:04 PM, Taky Cheung at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: You know what's really a total waste of time and money? If you have invested in Digital Compact Casette DCC invented by Philips. That's really something obsolete. and yeah, that thing never been popular anywhere in the world. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: R50 or R90/R900
Some people regard the R50 as the "absolute norm" - some kind of ideal form for an MD portable. My guess is that after the R50, MD portables generally became caught up in a somewhat pathetic quest for better stastical performance (low power consumption, for example). I don't know what the R50's amp output is, but if it's over 5+5mW then that may be a reason enough for some of us to pursue it. I've read a lot of discussion on headphone amp output. A lot of people claim that the smaller the output, the "lighter" and thus "sharper" the sound, but that it actually sounds somewhat unsettled. It seems that greater output generally gives a stronger sense of depth and scale. This issue is not just limited to MD portable, of course. And it's not that the portables with less output are not "good"; it's just that I'd always like to see a maximization of the sonic potentals. :-) Back to the Sony portables discussion. I have the R900. The nice thing is that every time you use it, you realize how hi-tech it is. It prompts you to "pushENTER", shows you how much data is left to be encoded, and revs up like nothing else (aside from 45x search cassette walkmans). The one major complaint I have of the R900 is the way it handles power. The battery indicator "spasms" all the time as it draws some extra power to start the spindle, read, write, and so on. Sometimes I'd start recording confident that I've got plenty of power left, then come back 5 minutes later, to find the R900 cut itself off from an empty battery. There are parts of the operation logic (i.e. how you go about operating) that are erratic to me. However, this is probably a personal issue and isn't quite a reason for affecting decision-making. I realize these may all be a bit irrelevant to the questions... sorry bout that. Leon on 2/5/01 11:43 AM, Ed Heckman at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: At 2/4/01 3:15 PM, John Small wrote: Since both are available (R50 at $250, R90 at $220) is there one reason to prefer one model over the other? Beyond the R90 issue is there some reason to prefer the R900 over either the R50 or R90, aside from the LP feature? These are the only three portable player/recorder models being considered. Wow, I'm surprised no one answered this yet. All other things being equal, the R900 is far superior to the older machines. It's battery life is longer, it's faster (more responsive) than the R55 and R90; but not the R50. It finally allows you to set it so End Search is automatic. And it supports MDLP, which IMNSHO, is a big step forward. The only real drawback to it is that it has one output for both headphones and line out. It uses a software setting to control the output instead of a hardware switch, and it reverts to headphone mode at the drop of a hat. But this is just a minor annoyance in an excellent design. In short, unless there's a particular reason not to, get the R900 over other choices. I have one and I'm VERY happy with it. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Panasonic MDLP recorder.
Hello, Panasonic hasn't released anything that has MDLP modes - the only Japanese MD equipment maker to have no MDLP in their products. Based on past schedules, the current model (MR200)'s product life cycle would be ending some time in mid-2001. If an MDLP-compatible recorder is to be released, I'd imagine that's when. Leon on 1/25/01 6:35 PM, Matt L at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Does anyone know if panasonic is going to release an MDLP portable recorder? If so, when is it due out? Matt - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: FUJI MD
AFAIK Fuji seems to have a fairly good reputation. I've heard less complaints than with Maxell discs. they market audio/visual media under the Axia brand in Japan, just in case you come across any comments on Axia. Leon on 1/10/01 9:59 AM, Jalen, Ken at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: The local music shop is discontinuing their line of MDs. They have FUJI 5 packs @ $8.50 USD. Does anyone have any comments about FUJI MDs. Thanks - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sharp MD 831 remote
I like the 831 remote so much, I haven't touched it in a while! (I've got 3 other remotes that can be used with the 831) I love the layout, so I'm saving it, in case I get another Sharp (clone) in the future. From my experiences with Panasonic, try to avoid touching these remotes with a greasy hand. Leon on 1/9/01 10:52 AM, zaheerm at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Anyone else noticed that the remote on this machine is of a very poor build quality. Mine started to lose the silver coating around the round STOP button and I've only had it a week! ZM - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sony E500 vs. E700 vs. E900
A summary from Sony's own comparison table in Japanese: (http://www.walkman.sony.co.jp/prod/md_rec/kino.html) All 3 are compatible with MDLP. The E700 is functionally identical to the E900, but doesn't have magnesium alloy casing. weight - unit only / unit with rech. battery E500 - 76g / 101g E700 - 85g / 110g E900 - 58g / 83 g size including projecting parts: E500 - 77 by 19 by 81mm E700 - 80.5 by 15 by 75mm E900 - 79.5 by 14 by 72mm The E500 comes with Ni-Cd rechargeable battery (NC-6WM, 600mAh); its supplied charger takes 3 hours to do a full charge. The other two has Ni-MH (NH-14WM), but their chargers only take 1.5 hours to fully charge the battery. Playback on rechargeable battery only (SP/LP2/LP4): E500 - 14/16/18 hours E900 and E700 - 29/33/37 hours All 3 have the same power consumption, though: they all achieve 42/49/58 hours on an AA alkaline battery. the E500 doesn't have: - personal disc memory - program play - playback speed control - timer The E500's remote display is not backlit. However, according to a Japanese message board: a Sony remote that has backlight will light up when plugged into the E500. Leon on 1/7/01 12:05 AM, Dan Frakes at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Has anyone seen a comprehensive comparisions of these three units? I'm looking at them on the Micmic web site and they are $195, $220 and $235, respectively. I see that there are slight differences in size, and I believe the E500 doesn't have LP mode, but I'd like to know exactly what each has relative to the others. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Plug-in power
Hi there, Plug-in power means that the mike itself doesn't have any power source, but feeds off the recorder. I'm not sure about the other questions. :) Leon On Thursday, December 28, 2000, at 03:24 PM, Mark A. Eschbach wrote: Hi! I'm new to this list and very thankful I've found it. I have a few questions about the MD-SR60 portable MiniDisc player/recorder. I got one for Christmas and am unfamiliar with this type of media and plug-in power. 1. What is plug-in power and how does it differ from the standard 48v phantom power used in condenser microphones? 2. Will a normal dynamic microphone work with this MD recorder? I'm told that the MD sends power to the microphone...what kinds of microphones could be harmed by using them with this model MD? What types of microphones will hurt the MD? 3. Is it possible to use a microphone powered by a battery? If I take out the battery, will the microphone be powered by the MD and work just fine? 4. Can anyone recommend a mic under $100 that will be compatible with this model MiniDisc recorder? Would the Sony ECM-MS907 be ok? 5. I have tried a normal dynamic microphone with an XLR to 1/4" cable. When I use a tip/sleeve 1/4" to 1/8" adapter (to go from the mic cable into the MD recorder) I do not get any signal into the MD recorder. When I use a tip/ring/sleeve adapter, I do get signal but when I connect it, I hear an electrical popping from the microphone. Can anyone explain what is going on here? Thank you for your time. I would appreciate a response as soon as possible as I am going out of the country in two days and need this MiniDisc recorder to be functional. Please respond to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Mark Eschbach - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: ATRAC version used on MZ-R90?
Hi there, The DSP chips on recent Sony portables (i.e. from the R90 generation onwards) are used in portables only and not home decks. So we can no longer find out the ATRAC version by a "matching" method. The only way to find out is to ask Sony, assuming that they don't mind telling you. Leon From: "Francisco J. Huerta" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Tue, 19 Dec 2000 11:25:32 -0600 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: ATRAC version used on MZ-R90? Hello, I've been looking up and down for the ATRAC version used on the RZ90, but haven't been able to find it. Does someone know if it is 4.0 or 4.5? Thanks! Francisco. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Panasonic SJ-MJ88 review
Hi there, There hasn't been much information online about the MJ88, so I've created a review of the MJ88: http://wayweary.tripod.com/mj88/ Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Recommended portable players?
Hi there, The MZ-R900 is Sony's follow-up to the R90. The R900 came out in Japan in September, and judging by history, it should be out elsewhere within the next few months. Neither the R90 nor the R900 uses type-R. If you'd really like a taste of type-R, and you live in the US, the fast way is to buy a MDS-JE440 home deck (often being sold for no more than $200). There's no knowing which ATRAC version the latest Sony portables are - they don't say. However, for several years, Sony portables have been using version 4. I own a R900, before that I've been a long-time Sharp user, and I personally still prefer Sharps. Even though I'm quite familiar with the R900 already, I still press the wrong buttons from time to time. Never did that on my Sharp 831. In both ATRAC and the "analog stage" Sony tends to reproduce sound as it is. Sharp tends to alter sound slightly; a lot of us perceives Sharp as best for pop/rock. Leon Hello, I am relatively new to the forum, although not to MD (I own and love my MZ-1 to pieces!). I would like to replace my aging player for something really portable, though. I've kept a close eye on the RZ-90, but I have lots of questions about it which Sony's page doesn't address 1) Does it use ATRAC Type-R? If not, which version does it use? Does it sound good? 2) Is there any new model by Sony coming out soon? 3) Is there a better portable (in your opinion) from other brands? 4) If I use my MZ-1 as a player in my home system, and wire everything using fiber optics, will an MD recorded on the RZ-90 sound better on the MZ-1 than a record made on the MZ-1 played on it? Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated. I love MD, and would like to purchase the best player-recorder out there. Thanks again! Francisco. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: 831 without an internal battery.
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === I don't think it does any damage, but beware that the battery level indicator may be inaccurate when you don't use the internal battery. Leon From: "Robin Landy" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Wed, 13 Dec 2000 10:46:18 GMT To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: 831 without an internal battery. The Sharp 831 manual says that you can't use the external battery pack without the internal battery in place. However, mine seems to work just fine without an internal battery. Will this do any damage to my unit? Cheers Robin. Robin Landy Manchester University [EMAIL PROTECTED] Mobile: 07968 775304 --- - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: SACD? Any chance for survival?
The future doesn't look bright for DVD-A or SACD. If nothing else, I think us people nowadays are far less likely to spend on audio as if it's a hobby, and pursue the (supposedly) more refined stuff. Of course, that's probably also due to things like MD being so easily available. A proof - Nakamichi nowadays survive on computer peripherals and car audio, the same company who sold decks that recorded up to 20kHz on a cassette back in 1973. :) SACD, AFAIK, is supposed to sound more analog-like, without losing fidelity. There are people who think digital audio in general sounds too "hardened", and heads off into vinyls/cassettes. Don't ask me to explain their rationale. ;) Leon From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] (Rodney Peterson) Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Tue, 5 Dec 2000 10:00:48 -0800 (PST) To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: SACD? Any chance for survival? I'm considering the purchase of a Sony 9000 ES Progressive Scan DVD Player. As a bonus, it also plays SACD. Titles available in SACD are few and far between and seem to mirror the same (Sony titles only) that were initally available on prerecorded MD: Bangles Greatest Hits, Cyndi Lauper-She's So Unusual, etc. They sell for about $30 each. Question: what is the difference in sound quality and why should anybody in the general public give a flying f**king rhinos ass? I have sincere doubts anybody will ever give a s**t about DVD-Audio, let alone SACD. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: sharp mt77 - does it date+time stamp?
Hi there, Sharp's Japanese news release hasn't mentioned anything about date/time stamp, so it's safe to assume that the MT77 still doesn't have it. Sharp has had a very good track record, though. Yeah, my 702 did have the nasty UTOC error, but it's fine as a player. Very fine. :) Leon From: "Crak Therapy" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Wed, 22 Nov 2000 07:43:42 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: sharp mt77 - does it date+time stamp? hi all, does anyone know if sharp has done the sensible thing and added a date and time stamp to the new sharp mt77 portable recorder?? it's the only thing that stops me from buying a sharp... - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: I think it's a Sony
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === It does look like a Sony R70. Leon From: "J. Coon" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Sun, 19 Nov 2000 23:04:02 -0500 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: I think it's a Sony What recorder is this sound man hooking up to the sound system? http://albums.photopoint.com/j/ViewPhoto?u=89237a=10040742p=33544550 - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Sony MZ-E500
New player, Ni-Cd rechargeable battery. Launch date November 21. http://www.sony.co.jp/sd/CorporateCruise/Press/200011/00-1107B/ THis is the (relatively) cheaper end of Sony's MD players. No program play, no buzzer, no speed control. Size is close to that of the R900 recorder. Look at the initial production figure: 60,000 units... whew. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Napster and RIAA
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === I personally wouldn't call 128kbps MP3s quality. And isn't MP3 worthwhile because there are less and less quality songs that's worth our money, as far as mainstream pop/rock is concerned? :) Leon From: "JT" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Fri, 3 Nov 2000 17:09:58 -0500 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: MD: Napster and RIAA On 3 Nov 2000, at 10:28, las wrote: For quality MP3 digital songs, I think it is fair to pay a small royalty. snip If you [...] plan to copy your CDs to MD and then eliminate your CDs (e.g.. sell them on eBay), this might not be the system for you snip Does anyone else see a flaw here? -- JT - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Play one and stop in portable md
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === None of the Sharp portables, including the latest (MT77), has program or 1-song playback. The Sony MZ-E900 player does have program play. Leon From: Ed Heckman [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Thu, 2 Nov 2000 09:24:10 -0500 To: "MiniDisc List" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: MD: Play one and stop in portable md At 11/2/00 3:52 AM, Arto Leskinen increased the world's knowledge by typing: Does any of the portable md-players have play one song and stop operation? No repeat etc. Does any of them have programming? The new Sony MZ-R900, the Aiwa F70 and F/C80 do. Older Sony models don't, although I don't know about the lasted Sony play only model. I also don't know about Sharps or other manufacturers. You should check the equipment browser at http://www.minidisc.org/. Ed "What the" Heckman [EMAIL PROTECTED] +--+ | Stigmas are the corollaries of values. If work, independence,| | responsibility, respectability are valued, then their converse | | must be devalued, seen as disreputable. | | -- Gertrude Himmelfarb | | "The De-moralization of Society" | +--+ - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Kenwood DMC-M7R
Hey all, Here's Kenwood's clone of the Sharp MT77, coming to us in late November: http://www.kenwoodcorp.com/j/press/press20001101.html All specs identical, except that the M7R doesn't seem to have intro scan. Kenwood says that with MDLP, they expect to see more owners switch back to the "one-fits-all" way of utilizing MD, using a portable for all recording all playback. Some people do prefer this over recording on a home unit and listening on a portable player. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Sharps's MDLP portable recorder
Hi all, Here's the replacement to the 831 (I think): http://www.sharp.co.jp/sc/gaiyou/news/001030.html To be launched on November 10, available in silver and blue. 46000 yen. Some relatively new features: - intro-scan if you're in LP2/4 mode, plays the first 5 seconds of each track; there's still no program play; - 3 LEDs on the unit that indicates which mode (SP/SP mono, LP2, LP4) you're operating in; - With separately sold kit, record digitally from the USB port of a computer. battery life (SP, LP2, LP4) rechargeable: 6.5, 9.0, 11,5-hour recording 12.0, 13.5, 15.0-hour playback rechargeable and AA alkaline: 15.0, 22.0, 30.0-hour recording 29.0, 33.0, 40.0-hour playback Size: 71.9x16.8x78.7mm (gets title for smallest recorder) weight: 131g including battery Sharp calls the ATRAC DSP "generation 8.3", but the algorithm sounds identical to the generation 6 found on the 722. If Sharp creates a new DSP for each portable (831=7, 66=8), 8.3 sounds right, but that doesn't indicate ATRAC version. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sharps's MDLP portable recorder
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === I bought the R900, but I haven't used it much at all. To me personally, LP2 sounds thin against the normal SP, just like how MP3 sounds thin compared to CD (and ATRAC SP). LP2 is of excellent accuracy, but I find myself yearning for SP a lot. I think MDLP is not for everyone right now, as in if you don't need the extended capacity urgently, there's no need to make the move now. Continue on with your existing equipments. When it's time to replace them, buy MDLP-capable replacements. Of course, MDLP is a great, and very necessary invention. the MD format can now continue to defend itself against MP3 players (and various "solid-state" media players) for many years to come. Or until the prices of those memory cards go into a freefall, to a hundredth of what they are now. Yes, I do read Japanese. Six years of lessons in high school. :) It's been declining ever since I came to the States for college, but that's probably my fault. Just a note: The development of hi-fi VCRs had an interesting story behind it. No matter the format, early VCRs typically uses less tape (area-wise) than a microcassette recorder for sound recording. So hi-fi is certainly a desirable feature. Sony first came up with a hi-fi Beta VCR, hoping to revive the format's popularity (Beta's LP mode goes 2x maximum, VHS gets 3x, and that makes a difference for some purposes). However, Panasonic's VHS hi-fi VCR came out virtually at the same time. The subsequent hi-fi follow-ups seemed to crush Beta for good in Japan. Leon From: las [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Mon, 30 Oct 2000 11:20:31 -0500 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: MD: Sharps's MDLP portable recorder Leon wrote: Hi all, Here's the replacement to the 831 (I think): Some relatively new features: - intro-scan if you're in LP2/4 mode, plays the first 5 seconds of each track; there's still no program play; First of all, do you read Japanese?? I went to the link and nothing was in English?? The only problem with long play MDs are that everyone has all of this money invested in standard MD. If you have a portable a deck and a car unit, you can sell the one that the new one replaces (the deck if you are buying an LP deck or the portable, if you are buying an LP portable. If you buy a portable, I guess you can do what I did, if you don't title much. Sell both. But that will not solve your problem in the car. If you use a portable in the car it's not as bad. You just have to sell everything else and take the new unit everywhere. But there are loads of boom boxes and mini systems out there too. I have had a deck (which a sold) and several portables. Using the portable for making digital copies of CDs is a little bit of a pain. I just bought one of those mini systems from Mercata. It is going to be great to be able to not have to worry about finding my digital cable and taking the portable over to the CD player etc. So for now you will still be stuck with the CD player to portable situation if you buy a portable LP MD. But your new MDs (in the LP mode will only work in the new unit. You cant play them in your boom box, mini system, car unit, deck etc. In order to take advantage of the new features and length of the LP unit, you are going to have to use it for every thing. That means until they come up with a car LP unit (which will probably cost a small fortune) most people are going to have to use those crappy cassette adapters. Just about the only unit car units I know of having an AUX in put are Aiwa (which are good units in my opinion) and a real cheap and crap Radio Shack that puts out about 1 watt.. So if you don't have a unit with an AUX you are going to get crap sound in the car. The cassette adapter, like tape itself is limited to 15,000cps. If you have a CD player in your car and no cassette, what do you do? Don't get me wrong. I think the idea of LP is great. The only problem is like all new things while fortunately IT is backwards compatible, your old stuff is not "frontwards" compatible. Well it could be worse. DVDs are great, but you can't play a video cassette on them. At least with the LP MD units, you can get rid of any older units you have and still play your old MDs on the new unit. I suppose that the real advantage of the LP mode is for use in the car. I do may people jog more than 80 minutes at a time?? So eight minutes if fine for most things. And if you have long lectures or want to sneak it into a concert, the LP units are great. If LP catches on eventually you will see most regular MD units phased out (at least in Japan). It's like HI Fi VCRs
Re: MD: MD-LP
Hi, You can go to this FAQ page for answers to your questions: http://www.minidisc.org/mdlpfaq.html In short: MD-LP doubles (LP2 mode) or quadrouples (LP4 mode) the usable time when you record on blank discs. All MDLP equipments available now will record and play your current MDs in non-LP modes. Tracks recorded in MDLP will be treated as silent tracks on equipments that don't support MDLP. LP2 is stereo, and sounds quite pleasant against normal MD recordings. LP4 is joint stereo, which seems to be less suitable for music. If you don't REALLY need to squeeze 2,3 albums, or over 5 hours of lecture on an MD, you don't have to rush into buying MDLP equipments. And hang on to your 831. I think it's one of the best out there. Leon === The original message was multipart MIME=== === All non-text parts (attachments) have been removed === Hey all I have a sharp 831 and loving it. I have not had a single problem with it yet. (8mths now). I have been reading about MD-LP. What is it? What are the essestial differences in recording? If playback in mono is extended that would be great. If recording in stereo is extended that's fantastic. Why should I invest in one? I record in both music and live recordings of speeches. Longer time on both would be great. Zap === MIME part removed : application/ms-tnef; === - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Why MD?
Kenwood, when they renamed themselves Kenwood and came up with a new image, found out from market research that a lot of us - the younger crowd, if noone else - don't really care that much about sound quality. This was 20 years ago. This may explain why Kenwood is where they are today, while Sansui (who was in equal footing 20 years ago) has turned into driftwood. I've gone back to my SP equipments frequently, because I don't perceive LP2 to be as full-bodied as SP. But that's just me, and it's most likely the preference of one analog stage over another (amp, etc). MDLP is great, hands down. Because of it, MD now has so much advantage over solid-state audio (memory stick, etc). Sharp now has a MDLP boombox. Still no news of portables, but those would probably be on the replacement to the 831/2 and 531/2 (these are still in production. MT/ST66 are here to form a second line of products). Leon James writes: As you can see here, I have revised that position somewhat to say convenience, but not at the expense of sound. This is where MDLP shines, especially LP2. When I play 80 min MD's in the office now after having LP2 for a while, it surprises me how soon I have to change discs! Too bad MDLP came in so late. 3 or 4 years ago would have been perfect. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Hyperjack
I bought my Sharp 831 and Sony R900 from Hyperjack. They're very reliable, and seems to be cheaper than other established retailers (Japan-Direct, etc). Hyperjack sends your package as a gift, and they really wrap it in wrapping paper. I've had very favorable experiences with them, and would recommend them any day. I got my R900 for $381 US. The price varies slightly with exchange rate fluctuations, but they will quote you what they want to charge if you ask or place an order. I feel less ripped off with Hyperjack than Minidisco, price-wise. Leon Has anyone ever ordered anything from Hyperjack, and if so, how reliable are they? I'm thinking of ordering the MZ-R900 from them, but I was once ripped off trying to buy a portable minidisc recorder online, so I'm a little more suspicious now. Any help is very much appreciated. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: noise-cancelling headphones
You're much better off getting a pair of Sony MDR-EX70 or (preferably) Etymotic ER-4S/4P. I find these less complicated, easier to use, and in Etymotic's case, FAR more quality sound for your money. If you're determined to get noise-cancelling headphones, steer clear of Sony's MDR-NC5. I find those compromised in so many ways, they're not worth the price. :) Leon From: "matthew c. mead" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Tue, 17 Oct 2000 15:06:34 -0400 To: md-l mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: noise-cancelling headphones I'm going to Paris over thanksgiving week, and I plan on taking my Sharp 722 and some music. I'm curious if anyone has used the various brands of noise cancelling headphones. If so, which ones seem to work well, and which don't? Thanks! -matt - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Minidisc on Canadian Airlines
Last year I flew Air Canada. They said that you should ask the flight attendants. However, since you're allowed to use a laptop without asking, MD equipment should definitely be allowed. Unlike Swissair, for instance, AC have not said that you can't use CD or MD. Leon :) P.S. If the aircraft is from Canadian Airlines, check out the "proud wings" livery (design on exterior of plane) is an all-time favorite of mine. Take a good long look at the goose on the tail before they disappear for good next year. :) From: "Desmond Chin" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Wed, 18 Oct 2000 12:15:47 +1300 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: Minidisc on Canadian Airlines Hi guys, i am taking a trip abroad and taking Air Canada i would like to know do they allow minidisc to be used when the plane is in the air? what are the different airlinies policy thanks des - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sony earbuds.
Hi, The 268 does work with remote controls. The cord that comes out of the cheaper 238 is about 0.4m long, and has Sony's "micro-plug". It comes with a 1m extension cord that has a normal miniplug. The 268 should have either that, or the normal cords. As many others, I would not suggest any Sony earbuds with "groove". The 848 and 868 aren't that much more expensive. Leon P.S. I like to clip my remote low down, too. I don't understand the deal with 0.4m short cords - if your shirt has no pocket, it's not that convenient anymore. I want to buy some new earphones for my sharp 831. I'm interested in the Sony 268s, but I've heard that they 'don't work' with remote controls. Is this true? (I don't really see how this can be, but that is what is says in the Index catalogue). If the Sony 268 are no good, does anyone have any suggestions for good ear-buds costing less than 50 UK pounds. I would prefer a full length cord (since I like to clip the remote quite low down, eg on my belt, so that it is invisible) Cheers Robin. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: MDLP in the U.S.
I'm guessing new Sony MDLP equipments will come out "on schedule", after the same interval between any previous generations. Sony will definitely play MDLP to their advantage, because so many others aren't ready even in Japan. One would imagine Sharp has some form of ATRAC3 technology (since they're selling the e-musee, the headphone/memory stick player), but they've had no MDLP equipment out. If Sharp is developing, I'd imagine a February/March 2001 launch in Japan. Matsushita may never touch MDLP, for they're using AAC in solid-state audio against Sony's ATRAC3, and claiming that AAC is nearer to CD quality amongst the "near-CD" compression algorithms. But only time will tell. Leon p.s. The new Sony memory stick walkman looks great. Though I resisted the idea of MDLP at first, I am now beginning to warm up to the idea. When will MDLP players and recorders be available in America (they aren't already, are they?) -- or does anyone know? J. C. R. Davis ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: JVC's new portables
http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/products/compo/XM-PX50.html For a change, these two supports MDLP. :) Quick facts: XM-PX50 blue, orange, white; 29000 yen, to be launched Nov 21. - recharging stand features an indicator that lights up when charging; - polycarbonate body (same material as most CD portables) - 21/23/26 hour play in SP/LP2/LP4 modes; doesn't support external batteries. - 76 x 17.4 x 81 mm, 74g without batteries. XM-PX70 blue, pink, white; 35000 yen, to be launched Dec 11. - monocoque construction. Lightest player at 57g (without batt.; until the Panasonic MJ88 comes along) - ATRAC DSP, digital bass boost, anti-shock combined on one LSI. Featured on both units - digital bass boost (Active Clear Bass) - 7-step bass/treble control - alarm - train mode - auto power-off and beep can be disabled - repeat, random play (no program) - in SP/LP2/LP4, 25/31/36 hour play on rech. batteries, 70/86/100 maximum. - 71 x 14.6 x 78 mm The XM-PX50 replaces the PX33 (the "casual" side of the range, according to JVC), targeted at teenagers. The PX70 replaces the PX55 (the "high-spec" model), and has slightly older target groups. Seems that history is repeating itself: last year JVC announced the PX5, which was the lightest, and then came the even lighter Panasonic. These Matsushita companies probably timed the news releases between them, and made a point to target different groups. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Upcoming Panasonic players!
Hello, I was doing the usual surfing at this Japanese message board (Puwa-ris' board), and found the following information. Matsushita has probably put out news releases without doing the same online - they've done this before. Neither units are MD-LP capable, but look at the specs of the MJ88. Wow :) SJ-MJ88 32,000 yen Tentative launch: late November Variations: blue, silver, pink, green Weight: 54g without battery, 81g including rechargeable battery size: 71.5 by 78.5 by 11.8 mm; size including projecting parts: 74.1 by 80.1 by 13.9 mm Maximum 110 hours' playback (Ni-MH + AA alkaline) About 40-hour on rechargeable, 70 on AA alkaline. features: - recharging stand - anti-shock buffer back up to 40-second (from 20 on MJ75, 77) - 2-step S-XBS (!) - will feature something like the "circular grooves" of the MJ7/70 And also, details on the SJ-MJ33: Maximum 67 hours' playback; 25 on rechargeable, 42 on AA alkaline size: 84 by 76 by 14 mm size including projecting parts: 89.1 by 79.4 by 16.8 mm weight: 85g without battery, 112g including battery. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Funky charging on the R900
I agree that the R900 doesn't give near-spec performance for battery life. At least not in recording. :) Still, I personally find the R900's charging all right. The battery level indicator, though, feels a tad "funky". It's probably because (a) the range of speed the spindle is on, and (b) unlike Li-ion, there's no circuitry in the battery that doubles as a precise sensor. Given that, I wonder how Sharp's latest portables are in this area. The MT66's indicator probably doesn't work as accurately as the 831's. The BC-7HT is very likable. Sony chargers have had the same form factor since 1991, if not before, until everyone ended up using chargers of the same size. The downsizing to the BC-7HT is very nice. Leon At 9/24/00 5:00 PM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] increased the world's knowledge by typing: The model number is BC-7HT. Thanks for the lead. I bought a charger plus a spare battery from Planet Minidisc about 2 weeks ago. This let me use the two rechargeables to record all the sessions I was in at a conference last week. It really saved my butt. Don't let the specs fool you, the R900 gets significantly less recording time on the rechargeable battery than 8 hours. I say only about 6 hours (or so) in LP4 mode. And playback time isn't that much better. (These estimates are based on the battery indicator in the display.) - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Panasonic MR200
Hi there, This year, the Sony R900 pretty much stole the limelight, being a large renewal effort rather than the facelifts that the MR200/ST66 are. These two are probably no less decent than the R900, but I guess we all want to get a taste of LP2/4. Before the R900, I had seriously considered the MR200 for one feature: H.D.E.S. (high density encoding system) capability, which is supposedly more accurate and generates less sparkling noise. However, the general opinion of owners from a Japanese message board, (http://www.puwa-net.com/minidisc/bbs/yybbs.cgi) is that H.D.E.S. doesn't provide very much improvement. H.D.E.S. only functions when you power the MR200 from AC adaptor, unless you DIY and make separate power packs of over 1.2V in voltage. Feature-wise, the MR200 doesn't allow manual recording level adjustment. Not a biggie if you'd use it mainly for dubbing CDs, but it'll otherwise make your task of recording more labourious. Hope this is of some help. Leon From: "Stephen Dampf" [EMAIL PROTECTED] [Stephen Dampf] Any thoughts on the Panasonic MR200? - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sony MZ-R900 and other LP units
Just received my R900 today. LP2 is pretty good, from what I've gathered so far. Love the space savings. I'll post if I notice anything and can describe it better. Keith, I know what you mean. Now that you've mentioned it I'll try LP2 on a few tracks that have that kind of effect. :) Leon From: Keith Whitfield [EMAIL PROTECTED] I have just brought the Sony jb940 and while I havn't got the best setup in the world I can here very slight differences in the sound between stereo LP2 I can only here it with headphones. you can here it more if theres phaseing between left and right it's hard to put into words but it's the sort of effect when the music sound as if it's going around you rather then just fading left and right and only when it involves a 1 or 2 instruments. Other then that it's a great space saver but it's not compatible with my car md head unit so it's upgrade time again. hope my poor description is of some help. keith - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Kenwood's new boombox
http://www.kenwoodcorp.com/j/press/press2928.html The MDX-G7 a boombox, hence the "Rampage" name. Rampage has been doing extremely well in the boombox market (40% share, I think), and Kenwood keeps on trying to strengthen their position. the speakers are about 51mm thick. Tentative release date is Early November. A quick summary of some of the features: - MD-LP capable - double-speed dubbing - USB input (converted to analog before recording) - can be powered by 6 AA batteries (3.5 hour MD playback) - can be hung on a wall - foldable speakers, weighs 1.7kg overall - 10-key (mobile phone style) or the normal looping title input - output for optional subwoofer - A pair of 7cm woofers and 2.5cm tweeters I want one! :) But the FM tuner is 76-90MHz and doesnt offer an 87.5-108 option. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: What version ATRAC?
Hi Steve, The following is what I know...mostly correct, some may be wrong. Bear with me. For a definitive guide, read the MDCP FAQ. Sony hasn't named ATRAC versions for a lot of its recent portables. It used to be possible to track down ATRAC versions by looking at the DSP, because the DSP chips were used in both decks and portables. By the time the R90 came out, however, Sony was inclined to creating dedicated portable-only DSP chips. The highest Sony ATRAC version available is type-R. Virtually all Sony home equipments sold in Japan uses type-R right now. However, type-R capacility is not used during MD-LP encoding. The new R900 portable is capable of MD-LP, but not type-R. Maybe we can assume that R900 is equal to version 4 or 4.5 in capability. Sony's portable players seem to follow their recorders in ATRAC version. I opened up my MZ-E80, and the chip is CXD2663GA. Seems to be the same series as the R90 chips. Sharp's most advanced ATRAC is version 6. Advancement has been stalled at version 6 back in 1998, but it seems that new DSP chips with version 6 were developed for lower power consumption. Most Sharp portable players up to 1998 had the same ATRAC version as the recorders. Last year, however, they started saying that they used decode-only ATRAC on the 531 and everything after. Matsushita (Panasonic) only has two ATRAC versions of their own. The one seen on SJ-MR100, and the H.D.E.S. version that's now featured on all their MD recording equipments. Panasonic players use Sanyo's decoder chip, which Sanyo sold together with a playback control microcomputer. There has been at least 3 evolutions taking place since 1997. Sanyo also makes an encode/decode ATRAC DSP for its MD boombox. Kenwood's portable players - those that are not Sharp clones - use Sony's version 4.5. This has been declared on many Kenwood websites around the world. Kenwood may start using "Supreme D.R.I.V.E", a technology that patches up missing info from compressed audio, in the future. All the new technologies, as seen in type-R, Sharp 6, H.D.E.S., focus on changing the perceived outcome upon the playback of encoded data. The original ATRAC principle was created to be true to the human hearing threshold, while the latest versions tend to add emphasis on the 15kHz+ band, as much as possible. There's no site that offers clip examples, I don't think? :) Leon From: Steve Corey [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Fri, 29 Sep 2000 18:35:40 -0600 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: What version ATRAC? What version of ATRAC does the Sony MZ-R90 use? And what version is Sony ATRAC up to? Is there a site somewhere that lists versions of ATRACs and that has examples of music encoded in the various versions? - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Boomboxes from outside the US?
There are quite a few CD/MD (or CD/MD/cassette) boomboxes available in Japan. It's actually a pretty hot market. Some of them lets you use battery (Kenwood's Rampage does, I think), some don't. Sony has just announced a new model that doesn't feature MDLP - this must have been featured on the MDCP. Panasonic's current one, RX-MDX5 I think, actually costs less than the SJ-MR100, and features HDES encoding. exquisitely corny, Leon Since we're on the boombox topic, are there any MD boombox/portable stereos available where MD is more popular, like Europe or Japan? Perhaps those of us who are hard up for these things could import one from Europe if it could be converted to US voltage/frequency stepping? Just a thought and a question. :o) ~Zach - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: R900 Sound Quality
Thanks for the report Ed! I'm planning on using LP2 extensively when I receive my R900, so it's good to hear your take on it. Kenwood, of course, already has a micro system with LP. I vaguely remember that they update their car stereo range annually, so many the first quarter of next year. Or maybe watch the Japanese audio expo near year-end for announcements. I'm watching Kenwood very closely myself, but for a different reason. I think they're going separate ways with Sharp. Their home decks have often had Sony ATRAC. In general, the 'corporate' (signature?) sound of Kenwood is like a boomy (often better IMHO) version of Sony, rather than the sweeping, treble-strong sound of Sharps. Last year's DMC-L3/L5 had a chassis that looked identical to a Matsushita one (namely the Panasonic SJ-MJ75). And this year they have a MDLP product ready before Sharp. ...Just speculating. Leon Recorded on R50: 9.5 R900 stereo: 9.8 R900 LP2: 9.2 I didn't specifically test the LP4 mode in this manner, but I have used it. I would probably rate it somewhere around 7.6. I should note that it took very, very careful listening with my eyes closed and as little outside noise as possible for me to be able to hear the differences between the 4 versions. I would say that under normal listening conditions there would be no detectable differences between the recordings. So does anybody know when Kenwood will be coming out with a car stereo that supports the LP modes? - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sony MZ-R900 and other LP units
JVC sells a portable player that supports LP. But R900 is the only portable that will record in LP. I'm getting my R900 next week, hopefully, and hope to get a pair of Etymotic around the same time as well. Leon From: las [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Sun, 24 Sep 2000 15:35:45 -0400 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: Sony MZ-R900 and other LP units Is Sony the only manufacture selling a portable LP MD unit at this time? Larry - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sony MZ-R900 and other LP units
Hi Larry, I bought it from Hyperjack, who quoted $380.28. This, plus $5 for priority mail and $3 for my money order. This is cheaper than what I would've paid if I went for Japan-Direct or Minidisco, I can't say for sure, but I think it's a good deal. I don't like Sony much myself. The first times I heard the sound of MD was on R30 and R50s, but first impression wasn't good. It was probably the supplied earbuds. By contrast, I instantly warmed up when I heard a Kenwood J7R. But here's why I bought the R900. 1. I'm eager to try out the LP modes. 2. I'm also interested in how Sony ATRAC differs from Sharp ATRAC, since so many have commented that Sharp seems to add this sparkle artifact in encoding. 3. the R900 seems to be a step forward in several ways. Hey, a RISC processor sounds exciting :) 4. I've had a chance to play with an E80 for a few months, and have warmed up to the typical Sony sound. If all else fails, I still have my 831, also bought from Hyperjack. Every opinion points to the 831 and Etymotic being an orgasmic combination :) Leon From: las [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: MD: Sony MZ-R900 and other LP units Do you have a good source (price wse) for your 900? I'm still gun shy about Sony. I'd much rather buy a Sharp. I'll bet they have one out soon. Larry - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Battery consumption of MZ-R90 Remote
I'm not sure what the figure is, but Aiwa's AM-HX70 has a power save feature that turns the remote off, among other things. Seems to get a few hours extra on battery life. Back in 1995 Sony used flourescent backgorund on the remote LCD of their cassette walkman (WM-EX2). But I guess backlight always wins out in the end. Backlights aren't that attractive nowadays, but if you've seen what Panasonic did with the backlights back in 96/97 (3 colors on black background, red, etc)... They sure made a lasting impression in my head :) Leon I own a MZ-R90, and find it to be an excellent unit. Battery life is excellent, but I find when I turn on the unit to start playing (unit off), I sometimes get a "battery Low" warning. I am sure there is still some juice left, cause it works for a long time, after I turn on the unit using its buttons. This tells me the remote must be using quite a bit of power, to turn it on, or all the time. How much more battery life would you get with no remote at all? How accurate is the battery meter on the MZ-R90 in general? Any suggestions would be great. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: sharp 722-battery indicator does not work sometimes
Hi Susan, The 722, recharges the battery to about 90%, and then the indicator will go off. It then recharges at a far slower rate (trickle charge is the term, if I'm not mistaken). Out of the 3.5 hours or so that it takes to get fully recharged, about an hour is spent on this very slow stage. Since you don't always use up the same amount of power before you recharge, the time it takes to reach the 90% stage tends to vary. If the battery is wearing out, the symptom should be that you're getting a lot less life out of each recharge. It's only been about 4 months since you got your 722, so I think there's no problem with the battery itself. Sometimes the battery (recharge) indicator can be a bit unpredictable. Hope this helps. Leon sometimes my battery recharge indicator does not work and sometimes it does--no predictable pattern--it is recharging but I am wondering if the battery is wearing out. I've had it since may 25 2k Susan Please reply to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Susan and the Wolves of Suffern, Cory at the Bridge ICQ #17750260 alternate email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] SPRAY NO LIST Post message: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Unsubscribe: [EMAIL PROTECTED] List owner: [EMAIL PROTECTED] URL to this page: http://www.egroups.com/group/sprayno - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: MDLP (Amended Comments)
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === Isn't aircheck recording off radio? I keep seeing Japanese people use that term - everyone used to dub everything off FM radio a couple decades ago, so that they didn't have to buy records/cassettes. Leon "James T. Resinger" [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: I still think LP4 is pretty damned good, but the quality will depend in large part on the type of music one is recording. It's certainly good enough for airchecks, which was the primary reason for my enthusiasm. If you want a long mix for background music, LP4 will definitely suffice. Sorry, what's an aircheck? Rick - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Other MZ-R900 New features
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === Hi Leland, Thanks for the informative post. How do you find the sound of the R900, compared to your previous equipments? How are the bass/treble controls? Any info or opinions will be great. By the time all major portables of this generation roll out (early next year?), I'll be buying a new recorder, and this is the first time I'm seriously considering a Sony. Really, Sony's getting better, it seems. Defeatable end search, defeatable beep :) Despite the fact that they took out the unit-side bass switch on the E900. Leon Some other features, such as defeatable end search in the R900 that I have not seen in the descriptions from Sony et al include: Beep on remote is defeatable Auto track marking at selectable time intervals 5 min, 10 min, 15 min, has been added Mic sensitivity low and high are user selectable via software switch (not switch on the unit as with R-50 and before) Line Out mode will not drive headphones, leading me to believe it differs from the Line Out mode in the R90, which will. Might be quieter? LP2 mode sounds pretty good. LP4 mode is not good enough for music. Fine for speech. LP tracks can be "moved" using a non-MDLP recorder, but not deleted or named I got mine yesterday :) I didn't shop for price (as time was very limited) but I paid 34,800 Yen plus tax for total of 36,540 in Akihabara. I did not negotiate. Regards, Leland - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED] - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Sony MZ-E700 etc
Hi all, After the fifty or so e-mails from the ethereal, religious "blank/quality" thread (haha), how about something different? Check out the pictures on this page: http://www.sonyshop-yoshida.co.jp/walkman2.html They show the new Sony R900 and E900. The person who did the page probably just took pics from Sony's official announcements (on paper). But these look a lot more 3-dimensional. Notice that the R900 isn't flat, but has a contour that resembles a roll of paper towels hanging off the wall. :) There's also the E700. The page doesn't have any info, just the pics. But looks good, eh? Looks like Sony's really putting effort into their products this year - I get this "that'll teach ya who's the boss" feeling. At the bottom of the page is the WM-EX2000 (cassette walkman), which probably replaces the EX20. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: model numbering (was: MZ-E900, R900 - scary Sony!)
Hi there, - - the R900 has the standard monaural recording mode; Didn't the R90 and all others back to the MZ-R3? I should've said "retains the standard monaural...". It wasn't mentioned on the press release for the MD-LP-equipped Sony decks/systems. I thought Sony may be dropping mono recording (just keeping playback) across the range. :) Does anyone else think that "MZ-R900" is a hell of a high model number? How about MZ-R100, or MZ-R190 or something? Maybe we really will be into the 4 digit numbers in a year or two. Actually, I was posting on another forum that I thought Sony would just bloat the model #'s by 10x. That, because of the MZ-E800. Sony doesn't ever make it clear at launch, but the E800 is the new entry-level model for Japan. Soon after the E800 launch, the E80 was pulled off Sony's official Walkman catalog site. Also, for Sony and Matsushita, there seems to be a sense of competition in model #'s. A few years ago Panasonic "bumped up" from SJ-MJ7 to MJ70, as opposed to Sony's MZ-E35 (or 50?) to E55. And then Sony moved from MZ-R55 to 90. This time, Sony may be aiming to appear "higher" than other brands. There are parts of the MD-buying public who could fall for these higher numbers, the way they fall for battery life/smallest/lightest figures. Of course, a very valid argument is that large # jumps occur when there's some kind of renewal. New optical block, for instance. But Sharp never does this. Kenwood doesn't do it either, even for the non-clones. It's just interesting for me. Back when Toyota and Nissan each did market research for the (then upcoming) Lexus and Infiniti brands in the mid-80s, they found one thing: the most impressive naming for them is the form of "letters + numbers". Someone using a (e.g.) B O -style naming on MD equipments will be cool, but I don't see that happening. Thought of the car example because Sony always reminds me of Honda, and Matsushita reminds me of Toyota. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: sound quality difference in blanks?
Hi there, Glad you're enjoying your 920. I think this is pretty much a taboo issue. Scientifically, all blanks should give you the same results. Some suggest a blind test to clear things up. But firstly, I believe some things exist but can't be proven. Secondly, when I listen to music, my eyes are usually open - does blind test matter? In the end, either you believe blanks do make a difference, or you don't. It's the same for a number of other issues. Either you believe it, or you don't. It's like a religion, because audio is such an objective, touchy issue. Personally, I do what I think is useful. Personally, I use TDK XA-PRO blanks. When I record with my portable recorder, I keep it free of all connections, except the input. I always power it on battery, and I turn volume all the way down. There are other, far more rational things that I do, but these seem to work for me. Enjoy :) Leon Hi everyone: I'm a total "newbie" not only to this list, but also to Minidiscs in general, just having purchased a Sony MDS-JB920. I love it! It sounds great. I read the "Myths" within the Minidisc.org page, and everything Mr. Woudenberg writes makes perfect sense to me, BUT - - - - Could someone please tell me WHY I REALLY DO hear a difference between discs then? I was using the regular Sony Color collection discs, but then bought some Maxell GOLD, and I was amazed by the sonic difference. I recorded through the analog ins, direct from the CD player, same tune, and never changed anything (input levels) and could sense exactly what those "audiophiles" were saying - more clarity in the highs, lows had a nice roundness... Okay, okay! I know, and since I'm 41, I figured I must be deaf, and REALLY wanting to hear a difference. So I played the same test for a twenty five year old friend of mine, who doesn't have any preconceived notions about MD, (and didn't kick the extra money for the GOLD blanks) and HE could tell instantly! So I guess I need to know if anyone else out there is going through the same thing, or are you all going to tell me I'm crazy? - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: MT831 User Manual
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === Doesn't the Japanese manual have an English section? I know it's not exactly as good as the Japanese part... Leon I'm sorry Marina, I don't have one. I'm forwarding your note to the MD mailing list with the hope that someone may be kind enough to scan one and send it in. -Rick Marina Ortega writes: Can you help with this? I bought my MT831 while in Japan and need the English user manual. Thank You- - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: MZ-E900, R900 - scary Sony!
Sony really is going all out this time, it seems. To the extent that they're getting the news out on a week when so many people are on holiday in Japan. Scary specs, too. - a 20-disc settings database? Geez! - speed control: do they need it for every equipment? :) - They've gone back to rotary switches on the stick remote. The way volume control is set doesn't look good. - spindle runs at 3x speed, so what would that be? 1200-2700 rpm+? and we thought R90/E90/E77 were noisy... But having said all that, the good things... - program play - the R900 has the standard monaural recording mode; - Sony bothers to make the E900 a gram lighter than the Panasonic MJ77. - a RISC processor inside your MD portable sounds good. This is the first time in a decade that I find Sony Walkmans desirable. Depending on what Sharp comes up with, I'll definitely be considering these two when I want MD-LP compatible units. Leon :) - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: MZ-E900, R900 - scary Sony!
Hey, me increasing the world's knowledge? :P The info is still on the minidisc.org front page. With translation too. What I posted were really opinions, and not reporting on fact. end search is probably still on there (no proof/disproof), but it does support the two LP mdoes. Leon From: Ed Heckman [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Thu, 17 Aug 2000 10:52:02 -0400 To: "MiniDisc List" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: MD: MZ-E900, R900 - scary Sony! At 8/17/00 9:50 AM, Leon increased the world's knowledge by typing: Sony really is going all out this time, it seems. To the extent that they're getting the news out on a week when so many people are on holiday in Japan. Where did you find this info? Did they get rid of End Search? (I doubt it) Does it support the new LP mode? Thanks. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: My MZ-R3 works
Hey there, Just to participate... :) DMC-J7R - works, without slot-in "door". Remote clip broken. SJ-MJ5 - works fine MD-MT831 - works fine DMC-L5 - works, remote clip broken. SJ-MJ75 - works fine, remote LCD cracked. Remote clip broken. Unit is very sturdy considering how many times it's been dropped. DMC-K5 - works, but rechargeable battery contacts "give in" sometimes MZ-E35 - doesn't work. probs with optical block transport SJ-MJ30 - doesn't work. slot-in doesn't close tight enough. Remote clip disappeared. All adaptors/charges from the above works. All Panasonic earbuds busted, otherwise all earbuds work. All display backlights work (even the MJ75 one) Leon From: "PrinceGaz" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Wed, 16 Aug 2000 16:14:50 +0100 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: My MZ-R3 works I'd just like to say that my Sony MZ-R3 is working fine. I have no faults to report (apart from the obvious one). Why doesn't everyone who has working md equipment tell us about it and see if we can crash the server (sorry Nick). - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Dataplay (small 500MB *multipurpose* discs) vs. MD
Hi, the 3" CD-R isn't really new in Japan. I believe it's been around for some time - I've seen Japanese personal web pages on burning 3" CD-Rs from last year. Put it in an CD-single adaptor, and (at least) some CD-R drives will burn just as usual. The MD disc was originally going to be the size of the 3" CD, but shrunk further to bring it close to the dimensions of a cassette. Like with the CD, Sony's size decision was made with regards to existing "spaces" (CD fits in the "1DIN" European size dashboard stereo space). On the other hand, Sony is involved in a 5cm (about 2"?) diameter MO disc: http://www.world.sony.com/News/Press/23/00-0323/ One way to see this is that Sony doesn't see MD/MDdata as adequate for a storage medium. It could really be the format's specifications that's limiting progress. Or you can say Sony's just doing what they've always done. They're also being indecisive between large LCD panels and plasma display. ;) Leon I just checked out the Dataplay web page (www.dataplay.com). They are pushing a new write-once, US $5.00-10.00 disc that looks like a 2/3 size MD (to be available early 2001). They say it'll be used in cameras, mp3 players, computers, game devices, phones, etc. It looks great, but I have a basic question: Why hasn't this been done already with MD's? There is a high-capacity version, right? Is the write speed to slow? And why did SONY make their new Mavica use an entirely new 3-inch CD-R? The capacity is approximately the same as a standard MD -- and the CD-R is even a little larger, I think. The write speed can't be faster than an MD (both generally go up to 4X (600kpbs). What's the advantage of the CD-R? MD's are re-writable so many times, and can be made un-eraseable simply by moving the write-protect tab. I really hope to see these portable storage options expand from the current very expensive flash memory, but I'm left wondering about MD-sized MO discs. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Upcoming portables
Woohoo, great info. Good job to the man who gathered the info. The MR200 could be inconvenient on several fronts: - HDES encoding only activates when used with AC adaptor (Matsushita's pamphlet/online PDF states this) - doesn't seem to allow manual recording level adjustment - volume and track select controlled by the pad - inconvenient if you decide to use the unit without the remote. Now we have the heavyweights to look forward to :) Good to hear Sharp may be sticking to Li-ion batteries. And if they're insisting on "Universe's bla bla bla" advertising...having the guts to say that two years in a row. ROFL. Wonder what they'll do with the ATRAC. Leon Hi Dainz Pyo, Thanks, your information is interesting, I'm forwarding it to the MD mailing list. -Rick [The Korean MD page owner repied to my request for further information about the new Panasonic recorder's "Smart Operation Pad"]: i dont have other info MR200 because only get snapshot the gear. but i'll effort your request. and i finally get new MD gear info. according given my info, Sony new MDR model number is MR100, SHARP is MT851 and MT8xx (2 model) Sharp new model apply MDLP mode. i guess sony too. and sony model apply USB or other PClink mode. also sony model built in ATRAC-Type R. fher sharp is not use rithum-ion batt and built Cosmos(^^) smallest, lightest MDR the last : Sony use charging stand (mz-e800) be sure help you this info. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sony 940 deck
If I'm not mistaken, the 940 can do up to 320 minutes of stereo recording, from using ATRAC3 encoding. So Sony may have left mono recording out. It's highly likely that it will play mono tracks, though. Leon Does anyone yet own the Sony 940 deck? the specs don't show it recording in mono, that's surely not been left out, has it? - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Napster
The music industry really should know better. IMHO MP3s are popular because a) music quality has been on a freefall for a while now (how many CDs will you confidently buy for the full price?) b) CDs are seriously overpriced (nowadays they don't even do enough marketing to make the price seem justified from their POV) c) the industry is unwilling to release everything everywhere (notice they could've made money), making people turn to MP3s instead of paying for imports. but hey, such is life... I guess? Another reason to make more money... :) Leon From: "PrinceGaz" [EMAIL PROTECTED] Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Thu, 27 Jul 2000 12:22:55 +0100 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: MD: Napster Hi guys, Bad news for all of use who find downloading mp3 files with Napster easier than converting to mp3 from our own legitimate CDs-- seem that from midnight Friday they may be shutdown apparently because the music industry believes it is used to steal copyrighted material. I very much doubt that ever happens- not by me anyway (ahem, cough, choke :-) So you'd best get online and steal all you ca... I mean get mp3s of your own discs quickly. Or something like that. I do not condone copyright infringement (said in a very unconvincing manner). - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Revolutionary?
Hi there, I think the E800 mechanism may involve simply a spring, a movable lid (the circular thing), and some restricting mechanisms. You'd push the disc in, which forces the lid open. If I'm not mistaken, you simply move the lid open in order to retrieve the disc. This would be simpler than the (Jamiroquai-advertised) EP10/11. The newest Sharp slot-in player (MD-SS321/322/421) are as thick as the E800, if not actually thinner. The Sharps are about 3-4mm thicker than their clamshell counterparts at the time. Panasonic's SJ-MJ30 and 35 functions like slot-in models, with a retractable disc holder. These are as slim as Panasonic's clamshell models (no more than 1-2mm thicker max). However, because a spring is used to hold down the disc holder, when that spring goes bad the disc wouldn't load properly. It happened to my MJ30 after 6 months of use. If you choose to believe that vibration affects playback quality, then a more rigid disc holder would give better performance. Clamshell disc holders can be made very thin. A slot-in mechanism can also be made thinner/lighter, but it seems that noone has put any RD into that. So, at this point, slot-in remains the one that feels solid in your hands. So the orthodox Sharp-style slot-in is probably still the best. Wish Sharp would make a 321 replacement based on the ST-55. That could be 15-16mm thick... Leon If you look at the pictures of how this works, it really looks like a clamshell/slot-in hybrid. It looks like they picked up much of the unit strength of the slot in design without adding much height to the unit. It appears that once the disk is inserted it pivots a bit to move into place, unlike the sharp designs where the disk must raise and lower parallel to the mechanism which adds to the height of the units. (not that I don't love my 722) I hate marketspeak as much as anyone but I does look like Sony has a new twist here. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Anyone know Japanese?
Hi Ryan, I read Japanese. :) As far as I can see, they don't do business beyond Japan. There isn't a single word even on the possibility of overseas delivery. The 23,000 price tag for the E77 is nothing to be excited about. Other online mail order sites (for Japan domestic) go as low as 20,500 yen. :) There are also retailers like Hyperjack. They haven't quoted a fixed price for the E77, treating it as the "open-priced" product it is for domestic and foreign orders. Back when there were no "Panasonic" stereos in Japan, Sony was a premium brand, so they used to sell for more. Since the early 90s, Sony's image has suffered for a while, and this extra profit margin faded, but I guess they're still trying. Sony's pricing policy in general is still what they used to do. Add this to a gradual slip in quality in some products... Some do think Sony has an attitude problem, but oh well, they did lose out on DVD. :) Leon Or Korean? Or Chinese? Or whatever the heck the Dyanmic Store is fluent in?? Because their prices on units ( http://www.rakuten.co.jp/marushin-ds/all.html ) in yen convert to a much, much, MUCH cheaper price in U.S. dollars than anywhere I've seen. $213 for an MZ-E77! And that's rounding UP! Haha -- the only problem is that I'm not very fluent in gibberish, so I was wondering if anyone out there could help some of us get in on this.. Just a thought! Ryan - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Lots of bargains in the future?
Hi there, FYI... Sony and JVC have both announced MD equipments that utilise ATRAC3 encoding (previously only found on the memory stick walkman). There are two data rates available. With ATRAC3, you can get 160 or 320 minutes of stereo recording on a blank MD. Leon What is this new LP format? - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: More on SJ-MR200 / Sony decks
Hey again, I forgot one thing. The SJ-MR200 is scheduled to be launched on August 5th. Also announced on Nelson Mandela's birthday... check out these Sony decks. http://www.sony.co.jp/sd/CorporateCruise/Press/27/00-0718A/ You can choose to use ATRAC3 encoding on 4 of the decks: MXD-D5C (5-disc changer) MDS-S50 MDS-JB940 MDS-JE640 giving 320 minutes of stereo recording on an 80-minute disc. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Panasonic SJ-MR200
Hey all, On Nelson Mandela's birthday, comes Panasonic's new portable recorder. :) In case you haven't found out yet, here's the Japanese news release: http://www.panasonic.co.jp/corp/news/official.data/data.dir/jn000718-1/jn000 718-1.html Click the first blue Japanese text icon - appears as [bla bla bla] - to see a picture. Another bunch of claims for this unit: World's smallest, world's lightest, world's longest playback time. The MR200 uses H.D.E.S , Panasonic's own encoding algorithm. Also notice the "smart operation pad" next to the display. It replaces the MR100's jog dial, and operates like a laptop touch pad for titling. Other specs are as usual: mono recording, sampling rate conversion, MD network connection, etc. MSRP: 42,800 yen color variations: white, blue, silver monthly production: 25,000 size: 78.2 by 71.6 by 16.8 mm (smaller than the MJ5) size, including projecting parts: 79.9 by 73.6 by 18.6 mm weight: 94g; 120g including rechargeable battery with rechargeable battery: 15-hour play, 7-hour recording with AA alkaline cell: 21-hour play, 3-hour recording (!) both batteries combined: 38-hour play, 15-hour recording Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: more on Sony / JVC XM-P2000
Hey again, Sorry for flooding the list. I know I've done it before... This will be the final post for a while. :) Sony has another 4 bookshelf systems, all as new "Pepz" series models: http://www.sony.co.jp/sd/CorporateCruise/Press/27/00-0718B/ Worth noting is that all 4 models can record at 4x speed. If you use the SP mode (no time extension), scale factor adjustment can be made after recording. If you do 4x-speed recording or use LP modes, you don't get the benefit of the type-R ATRAC. Also on Nelson Mandela's birthday (sic), is the announcement of JVC's new MD player. http://www.jvc-victor.co.jp/products/compo/XM-P2000.html This model supports the ATRAC3 LP mode I mentioned. Other functions are identical to other JVC players, albeit a bit larger and heavier. battery life: (LP2 is ATRAC3, double time; LP4 is quadrouple time) rechargeable battery: 10-hour SP, 6.5-hour LP2, 7-hour LP4. AA alkaline cell: 9-hour SP, 6-hour LP2 and LP4. both combined: 24.5-hour SP, 15.5-hour LP2, 16-hour LP4. size: 80.1 by 17.2 by 84.4 mm weight: 107g (without battery) JVC is releasing a boombox (RC-MD330) and two bookshelf systems (UX-A70MD, MX-S55MD) that support the LP modes. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: More on SJ-MR200 / Sony decks
Hi Richard, ATRAC3 indeed provides a greater compression ratio, about double that of the original ATRAC. Sony claims better integration with equipments that also use ATRAC. Sound quality is supposed to be "MD-like". I'm assuming this means slightly inferior to MD depending on the source. The reason for such assumption is that the first MD equipments were said to be "CD-like". ATRAC3 first surfaced with Sony's memory stick walkman last year. In this case, ATRAC3 is available in three compression ratios: 132kbps, 105kbps, and 66kbps. 105 is the "standard". I'm not sure what ratios are used on the new MD equipments. Leon Whoa! Have I missed something? What is ATRAC 3? Presumably a greater compression ratio... I love the idea of being able to record 320 minutes of stereo music onto an 80 minute disc (i.e. 4x what you usually can record) but does anyone know how it works and what the catch is? Can something recorded with ATRAC 3 be played back on a standard ATRAC player/portable? I appreciate that this is a new product but i get the feeling everyone else already knows what ATRAC3 is! - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Every once and a while I'm reminded just how great MDs are!
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === Wouldn't an ATRAC-encoded track be double the file size of when it's encoded in MP3 (around 128kbps)? Correct me if I'm wrong. The reason that ATRAC3 was invented was to give a compression (all right, lossy compression) ratio similar to what MP3 could do. If the original ATRAC could do it, Sony wouldn't create ATRAC3, would it? Or does quality make sense to broke college kids like me...? :) Leon P.S. How about the AAC compression that Panasonic is using on SD (memory card) players? They claim better quality than MP3 and higher compression ratio. P.S.S. A Japanese retailer has listed the Panasonic SJ-MR200 for sale. It doesn't look like a typo, because it's listed alongside the MR100. No pics yet; hope to see it soon. http://www.pasoq.co.jp/shopping/hard/maker/E6F009.html Unless I am missing something big time, I still don't think that they will be able to get the cost of flash memory low enough to make building a library of music on them. In addition, isn't Flash memory really meant as a temporary means of storage? Not archival? I think that it is time for someone to reintroduce the MD. Maybe they should even change the name (but of course it would make the claim that it is compatible with standard MD players-because it would actually be mini discs). Then they should have an interface on it to make it compatible with either serial and or USB. There are two ways that they could turn Mp3s into ATRAC. The first would be by having firmware right in the recorder. The other would be a software solution that would convert Mp3s to wave files and them spit them out as PCM through one of the ports mentioned above. One of the first USB peripherals I saw were speakers. If you can go from USB to speakers, I don't see any big deal in going from USB to PCM. Actually there is a third option. This would be a software hardware solution. I don't think that what I am about to describe is the best way to go because we want to keep it as simple as possible. You have a computer card that converts mp3s into PCM and has a USB or serial. This is too complicated. Besides, I realize that in order for this crazy plan of mine ot work, you would have to be able to have instant transfer of mp3s to ATRAC. In that way, the recorder would be able to create an MD in seconds instead of real time. But today's recorders can't input ATRAC. I realize that this is going to take a new breed of recorder, with high speed recording capabilities. But if people are will to put up with CD writers that give you 2X real time, if the new MD recorder could make the transfer in say 5 time (the compression ratio of ATRAC), I think that the majority of the people would be happy with that. If it could do it faster, fine. I thought of yet another way to do it. I guess first of all, they should wait until all of this mp3/Napster stuff settles down. If an agreement is reached that allows companies such as Napster and Mp3. to exist legally, that would be the time to strike. I don't know anything about mp3 compression. All a do is download songs and play them by either converting them to wave files or on my Apex DVD player. I know that ATRAC is bit wise reduction. You throw away the bits that you don't hear. Couldn't ATRAC be used instead of mp3?? Can't you use ATRAC instead of mp3 to provide you with files small enough to download, so you wouldn't need a life time to record just one song. From what I have seen of mp3, it seems to have about a 5:1 ratio like ATRAC?? If so, the ATRAC files should take up about the same amount of space a mp3 and be able to be downloaded at about the same speed. I'm getting into areas that I know little about (which is just about everywhere G), but even if the songs on an MD are the compressed equivalent of music tracks on a CD, you should be able to do some of the things I have mentioned using a form of digital audio extraction. I really don't understand it, but I'm told that the tracks on a CD are not real files, but rather virtual files. If you take a CD and check it with Windows Explorer, each track is listed as only 1KB. Now you know that it is actually much larger then that. I think one problem with the MD is that it was born too early. The MD is 21st century technology. At the price of solid state I feel it is going to be 21st century plus 10 years or more (maybe never) technology. I may be shocked in a year or so, but I just can't see 140MB of memory dropping to $3.00 in my life time. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: MiniDisc and lifestyle systems
It seems that Nakamichi has stopped most of its home audio business. They just began offering cassette decks again recently (in Japan), but no moves on MD. They do have a car MD set though. AFAIK BO hasn't released anything new lately. Their designs could really benefit from newer technologies, like LCD, flat picture tubes, MD, etc. Bose has the following MD decks in Japan. The info is all in Japansese. http://www.bose.co.jp/products/mdw1.html http://www.bose.co.jp/products/mds1.html http://www.bose.co.jp/products/mda8.html If just based on appearance, I'd get myself one of the Kenwood sets that can be laid out vertically/horizontally. Leon Hi everyone! So far, the only way MiniDisc has been integrated with lifestyle systems is as part of Pioneer's new NS-series systems; and Onkyo's FR-435 music centre; and the "cube" systems offered by Onkyo and Sony. Noticeably absent from this list of implementations are companies that are well-known in the "lifestyle audio" market i.e. Bose, Nakamichi and Bang Olufsen. Has anything been done by these companies to supply companion MD decks for their lifestyle systems? In the case of Bose and BO; the decks should work as part of their lifestyle systems -- be able to be controlled by the systems' remotes or controlled as part of multi-room setups that are promoted by these companies. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Panasonic SJ-MJ70 battery
Hey Nokia man! :) Panasonic portables have Panasonic batteries, made by Matsushita Battery Industrial (MBI). With both rechargeable and an AA alkaline cell, the MJ70 can do 40 hours' playback in Japan, but only 32 hours in its European version. A breakdown of Japanese model shows that: 1400mAh Ni-MH = 16 hours AA alkaline = 24 hours total = 40 hours. So, if the total drops to 32 hours, the rechargeable battery only supplies 8 hours' worth of power. Therefore, I assume it's a Ni-Cd rechargeable for the European version. For Japanese model: voltage is 1.2V. current is 1400mAh. The model is RP-BP140H. For European model (my guess): voltage is 1.2V. current is 600mAh. The model is RP-BP61. The size is approx. 65mm by 16mm by 6mm. This is the standard "gumpack" size Sony invented back in the mid-80s. In Japan, both batteries are sold separately. But they're sold by MBI, and have different model codes and packaging: Ni-MH = HHF-1PSC/1B Ni-Cd = P-FPS/1B Leon Hello! I need help with the Panasonic SJ-MJ70's battery specifications (both the American and Europe models). I'd like information about * brand (probably Panasonic...) * type (letters and digits, i.e. LIP-12) * size (HxWxL) * voltage (probably 1.2V) * current (1400 mAH for all models except the European?) Also specify kind of battery (NiMH, NiCD etc.) Please help me with this! Thanks in advance! Stefan - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Street prices for MZ-E800 and MZ-E77 in Japan or HK
I did a couple searches online, using Japanese search engines. MZ-E800 sells for 23700 (Sawada Denki, domestic mail order). A lot of places don't have this one available yet. Meanwhile, the MJ77 sells for 21500 online (hat-in), compared to the MJ75 going for as low as 15800. I remember reading on some Japanese forums that the MJ77 was delivered late. Matsushita didn't promptly ship them on the promised dates. Don't know if it's the same with the E800. Big retailers like Yodobashi Camera doesn't offer either yet. Leon Does anybody know the current street prices for the MZ-E800 and the MZ-E77 in Japan or HK? These newer players should be a little cheaper since they have "open price" which encourages price competition. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Pioneer MD decks
=== = NB: Over 50% of this message is QUOTED, please = = be more selective when quoting text = === I faintly remember that Sony protested over the ASRAC name, so Pioneer now calls it ARTIST-SYSTEM (Advanced Real-Time Signal Tuning) in Japan. This is totally unconfirmed, though. The Japanese message board users all like this system, but hey, they also believe in blank MDs making a difference in sound. I've been using only the XA-PRO for a while, but I won't comment... I don't want to be beheaded :) Leon I am shopping around for an MD deck for my home system and have stumbled upon the Pioneer units. What makes these interesting is a feature called Advanced Parameter Processing (APP). Here is a link to information on it incase anyone is interested. http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/features/9907-AdvancedParameterProcessing1. asp I think this is what Pioneer used to call "ASRAC" which, they said, was "Fully Compatible with ATRAC!", so um, why change the name then? My guess is that calling it ASRAC was so confusing they dropped the special name and now call it Advanced Parameter Processing. My question is, has anyone used a Pioneer unit with this feature, and if so, did you notice any quality differences compared to MD units from other manufactures? This is the $64K question. From the description, it looks like a good idea. There's only one glaring ommission: some kind of test results indicating that listeners actually thought it sounded better. Without that, it's impossible to know if they made any meaningful improvements. It would seem to indicate however that they've managed to do (or have requested) some independent development of ATRAC. - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Panasonic SJ-MJ77
Hi again, Right, sorry for two separate post, but I never saw this until I sent the MZ-E800 stuff. Panasonic has this very cool-looking replacement to the (old) MJ75 - the SJ-MJ77. The official news release isn't even out yet, but have a look: http://www.jij.co.jp/product/00-05-18/panasonic000518.html Just for the sake of it, this is the new smallest/lightest MD portable. 71,5x78.5x12.7mm , 60g (not including batteries). Smart-change mechanism: even if you don't push the disc all the way in, it'll be drawn in when you close the lid. Upon sliding the open knob, it functions like Sony's one-touch eject. 31000 yen, available in silver, blue, gray and red. launches on June 1. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: Sony's new MD walkman
Hi all, Thought I'd drop a note on what I read here: http://www.sony.co.jp/sd/CorporateCruise/Press/25/00-0518/ Sony MZ-E800 (open price, launches on June 10) - new Walkman logo - new foldable recharging stand (can also be used in cars) - head-loading mechanism (functions like that of the EP10/11, but Sony says this is a new design) - seamless body (virtually 1-piece shell) - LCD on unit - 24 hours' playback on rechargeable battery (same ol' NH-14WM) 79.5x76.7x17mm, or 80.5x77.5x20.0mm including projecting parts Newly released - rotary commander for in-car use (RM-WMC1; MSRP 3000 yen). I personally think this is one of Sony's best designs in recent years. Come on - if anyone remembers the WM-EX1... the MZ-E77 would be almost laughable. Leon - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
MD: SJ-MJ77 again (sorry!)
Hello, Sorry about wasting bandwidth. The color variations for the MJ77 are: white, silver, blue, red. Note the earbuds also look slightly different. Might be the cheaper kind (the kind with the mock-diamond glittery bit). --- I was hoping to do a brief review of the Kenwood DMC-L5, but I think it's getting too close to the end of its life cycle for a full-blown review. If anyone's still interested about the player's performance (it's relatively cheap), feel free to e-mail me. Leon http://homepage.mac.com/leon/ - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: MD: Sharp 722's battery life
Sharp's news releases state the following: battery life Recording - measured with playback volume at 0, analog input playback - measured with playback volume at 15. On Sharp portables, volume directly relates to power consumption. I've read a MD player battery life test in a magazine last year, with everything played at full volume. The Sharp 531 (and the Sony E95 too) turned in results that's more than 1 hour less, while most other players stuck to the official figures. I've heard from owners of other Sharp models that turning bass boost off extends battery life. Not very much, just enough to be obvious at the point where the unit cuts off automatically. Also, the battery life gradually decreases over its lifetime - not because of memory effect, but simply because it's moving towards the eventual "death". The 831 manual says that if the battery gives only half of what it provided when brand new, it should be replaced. Leon I've got a Sharp 722. It is said to have an autonomy of about ten hours in plays mode and 8 when you record. But I have the impression that the real autonomy is inferior to what is claimed by Sharp. How do they measure the autonomy? At which volume and which bass level (0, 1, 2, 3)? I always listen music at volume 8 and bass level 3? So, is it 10 hours of playback maximum or is my battery to be changed? - To stop getting this list send a message containing just the word "unsubscribe" to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
