Fostex MR16HD 16-Track Digital Recorder

Feature:
A good selection of features. One of the strengths of the MR16 is its simplistic approach to editing, a feature that allows great flexibility. Clearly the MR range was originally intended for a computer based editing system and the process of downloading files is straighforward. The later models such as the 16 allow for stand alone CD creation but not for sophisticated sound modification. The Effects and the Mastering options go some way to improve this. My favourite option is the Direct Locate system which allows location of points in a recording to millisecond accuracy while continuously looping the recording. Its like getting frame accuracy on a video. The Aux Out jacks can be programmed to any track (and other options) allowing re-records through external systems or using the internal effects.

Quality:
The MR16 is well made but I would doubt its dependability for on the road use. Other users problems stem from the Hard Drive ( judging by the User Forum postbag ) and from occasional problems with the press button switches. The software can be updated and occasional updates are issued by Fostex. (usually without an explanation as to what they do.)

Value:
The price has increased since I bought my machine. The prise reflects good value and compares well to equivalent machines from other manufacturers.

Desirability:
The MR16 was the only multitracker in my price range with more than two inputs. (it has four) It is easy to use, in many ways it resembles a reel to reel recorder, and flexible in operation. It lacks many of the features of other machines, virtual tracks and time stretching for example. Products are always coming on the market and I would search before I bought another Fostex.

Sound:
The sound through my Edirol monitors is very good using the optical connector. I find the choice of the 33 input equaliser presets rather limiting and wish that Fostex had cut the number of presets to allow for at least one variable equaliser setting. One advantage is that it is possible to re-record the raw input and try each equaliser setting in rehearse mode.

Ease of Use:
In my opinion the Owner's Manual is a disaster. I progressed from DAT and MD to digital so was somewhat unfamiliar with the process. The Manual confused and confounded. I wrote to Fostex with suggestions to improve the format. On the other hand the machine itself is a delight. Easy to use and quite intuitive. My own teaching process was try it and make it work. My Yamaha EL900 organ connects directly and without problem.

Support:
I bought from a local retailer but I have contacted the importing company, SCV London, and they have been very helpful regarding software updates and parts supply. (not needed yet) The most useful source of information is definitely the User Forum and, as more MR16s are purchased, the database of information increases. Fostex's own FAQ is quite good if a little hard to use.

Overall:
The MR16 does all I want at a good price. It is straight forward to use (despite the Manual) and provides a high degree of flexibility. There are better machines on the market but, as all multitrackers in this price range are a compromise, the MR16 "ticked all the boxes" for me.

Feature:
Lots of features (input EQ presets, amp and mic simulation, 1 guitar input (DIST or CLEAN), INSERT for external equipment, reverb, 4 recording channels with XLR and TS connections), 3 mastering settings (bright, natural, powerful). Onboard preamps are a bit weak for my needs (acoustic guitar recording), but they work well enough with mics with >10-15mv/Pa sensitivity. Preamps almost too weak for my SM81 mic (5.6mv/Pa) and definitely for my SM57 mic (1.6mv/Pa) without external preamp. I wish it had stronger preamps, TRS mic inputs, and ability to turn phantom power on/off by individual channel (phantom power can only be all on or all off for the 4 input channels). I got a cheap external preamp (ART Tube MP PS) and it sounds very warm and detailed with the SM81 mic. Looking to try upscale preamp now that I know what they can do.

Quality:
Seems solid and reasonably heavy. All the knobs and faders are tight and work well. TS connections are tight - the XLR inputs seem to be not as tight but work very well. No complaints except for the buzz mentioned above (now fixed).

Value:
Lots of features and quality for the price. I set up my studio with this recorder, two SM81 mics, one SM57, one Rode NT-1a, KRK RP6 monitors, 4 mic stands, Yamaha RH5MA and Sennheiser HD280 headphones, and ART Tube MP Project preamp, for around $2500 and I am very pleased thus far. Looking to now expand my mic collection and hunting for the magical preamp.

Desirability:
Not all that sexy but it works well so I don't care about the looks. Its high appeal is purely for the VALUE of it - very high bang for the buck (features/quality for the price). Lowest price of any recorder in its class.

Sound:
Sound is very good through my KRK RP6 monitors. My unit developed a buzz after a month of use, but I sent it back to Fostex with an RA number and they fixed it. It was not an electronic hum, but rather a physical buzz, as if the outer casing was touching the hard drive and vibrating. I could touch the top of the casing near the hard drive and the buzz would stop, starting again when I let off. Fostex did a good job fixing it - they did some insulation and padding. No buzz now. A little hard drive noise but fairly quiet.

Ease of Use:
Manual is very thorough and easy to understand. Albeit written by a foreigner, but very clear and complete nonetheless. Read it through to make sure you see all the features. I made my first recording in an hour. Very easy to use basic settings to do recording. Punching in looks laborious. Very easy to edit tracks (copy, delete), bounce tracks to 2 stereo tracks, make WAV files, and export to laptop. I am still amazed at how easy it is to use, even though it is feature-packed (for a $400 recorder).

Support:
Great support thus far. Knowledgeable tech folks have answered my two email questions promptly, and service folks handled my one return for repair very professionally.

Overall:
I will probably use this for 5 years and move on up. It is just fine as recorder for now and I would rather save my $ for microphones and a preamp. I would probably get a Roland 2480 next but that is a long way off and quite pricey. I thought about going with an audio interface and computer, but I need portability and the Fostex multitracker seems to fit the bill.