Korg Introduces Flagship MR-2000S 1-Bit Studio Recorder
October 8, 2008
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Korg has expanded its MR Series of digital recorders with the MR-2000S 1-Bit Studio Recorder. Its predecessor, the MR-1000, debuted in 2006 as the ultimate portable capture, archive and mastering solution, delivering 5.6 MHz/1-bit high-quality recording capability at an unprecedented nexus of price and performance. Input and feedback from leading recording and mastering engineers have lead to the creation of the MR2000S, offering this same unmatched audio quality and enhanced by additional functionality and studio-ready connectivity. With ultra-high quality sound that exceeds DVD audio, a wide frequency response and the ability to capture and reproduce transient responses and spacial imaging as never before, the MR-2000S introduces a new era in recording quality. Sleek and flexible, the MR-2000S is a single rack height digital stereo 1-bit recorder, offering 5.6 MHz or 2.8 MHz 1-bit recording, or up to 24-bit 192 kHz PCM recording and playback. 1-bit file formats DSDIFF (used in SACD production), WSD and DSF are all supported, as well as PCM support for standard WAV, BWF (Broadcast WAV) and even MP3 playback. Sampling frequencies for PCM formats range from 44.1 kHz through 192 kHz. By using the highest-quality components available — the CS4398 Digital to Analog Converter from Cirrus Logic and the Burr-Brown PCM4202 Analog to Digital Converter from Texas Instruments Corporation — the MR-2000S minimizes any possible degradation of the audio signal. The MR-2000S offers the essential connectors for today's professional workplace. Analog connectors include XLR balanced input/output jacks, and RCA unbalanced input/output jacks. The reference level of the XLR jacks can be switched in a range of -12/-14/-16/-18/-20 dB, allowing the MR-2000S to be used in any recording environment from a music-related studio to a broadcast facility. Digital connectors include S/PDIF coaxial jacks for PCM sources, as well as word clock jacks for synchronization with other devices or a second MR-2000S unit. The MR-2000S also features a multi-step LED level meter with excellent response speed and high visibility. Korg's AudioGate version 1.5 audio file converter software is included, supporting reading/playback of MR project files and for converting to various file formats - including from 1-bit to the various multi-bit PCM formats, importing MP3, AAC and Apple lossless (with QuickTime 7), and WMA (Windows Media Audio, Windows only) - as well as improved conversion routines for all formats, enhancing the performance of this powerful software application. AudioGate allows the splitting and combining of individual files, fade in/out curves, and gain change as well as DC offset correction. The unit's built-in 80 GB hard disk allows up to approximately 120 hours of recording (44.1 kHz 16-bit two track), or approximately 14.5 hours at the highest quality (1-bit 5.6448 MHz two track). Up to 400 projects can be created for each of up to 400 recording date folders (160,000 possible projects total). USB 2.0 "high speed" mode is supported for rapid file transfer to and from users' computers. The Korg MR-2000S 1-Bit Studio Recorder will be available in December with a target U.S. MSRP of $1,999. For more information, visit their web site at www.korg.com.
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