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A CD burner in my computercheap and reliable. Still looking for the best compilation and editing software.
We <A HREF="http://www.stereophile.com/shownews.cgi?600">reported recently</A> that audio CD recorders are becoming hot items with consumers. How about with you?
CD recorder or MiniDisc recorder? The music recorded will be strictly for playback on my laptop, in the car, or on a portable, so I'm having trouble making a format choice. MiniDisc is ahead in the primaries; the final choice comes in March.
I use CD read/write for data backup on my Mac G3, hence writing CD-ROMs (data and audio) comes free. I'd recommend this approach over a standalone recorder, as it is possible to make compilations from CDs (e.g., for car use) very easily using Adaptec Toast and Jam programs. I also intend archiving analog audio material direct from LP turntable and audio cassette, and indirectly from my DAT recordings (e.g., off-air from Tuner). I could easily convert to MP3 if I can tolerate the loss in sound quality, or wish to send samples to my friends via the Internet.
I have had one in one of my computers for the past 2 years(SCSI CD-R & SCSI CD). When making digital direct recordings (CD to CD) with no conversion the copy does sound different. I'm still not sure which sounds better. For compilations while driving, CD-R's sure beat tape.
I record amateur performances on Mini-disc, and make copies on my PC CD Read-write for friends. I wish I had purchased the mini-disc several years ago, but I believed older Sterephile opinions that they were non-fi. Mr Fremer has since confirmed what I hear, the MDs are quite good and an excellent portable recording medium. The microphones are $2 Panasonic electret condenser capsules, powered by the recorder which I buy from digikey electronics.
I have "invested" in a harmonkardon, But some say that consumer products are not the best to use, as they will/might not work in other brand name recorders. They suggest using a comercial product. Others say that by the third generation it is ok and that the power of the laser is all matched by a minium power requirment in all consumer products. I have not had any problems thus far. Has anybody else?