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Sound:
For $1300, it sounds great. The converters are not as good as those on the Mackie HDR/MDR lines, but they're very much on par with those on the Alesis HD24. Out of the box, the SDR is capable of 12+ tracks at 24 bit/96 kHz, which is pretty good. I haven't yet tested it at 24/96 with 24 full tracks, but haven't had any problems with 15 so far.
Feature:
With the latest firmware upgrade, this recorder can do a lot. It's nice to have 8 virtual takes per track, really flexible routing (via ADAT optical or analog inputs/outputs), varispeed recording/playback, and more. The only thing I wish it had is an option to render tracks. Other than that, it's great. It records in .bwf format, so if you're reasonably computer savvy, you can build a dock for your computer and the SDR's external hard drive caddy, and then edit or mixdown on your computer. You can also hook up a remote and a footswitch, but those are sold separately. Also, for analog ins/outs, it does use db25 connections, which definitely add up in cost, since you need 6 snakes to fully hook everything up.
Quality:
So far, so good. I've heard of problems with some of the older machines, but haven't experienced any of them as of yet. The recorder itself is pretty sturdy. I wouldn't want it dropped or banged up too much, but I also wouldn't feel too bad about taking it on the road as long as I had appropriate protection for it.
Value:
There isn't a better product out there at this price point. Sure, the cables will cost you more than the ones for the HD24, but the SDR costs $700 less right now. That's really the only thing the HD24 has over the SDR.
Manufacturer Support:
Mackie is really great to deal with. One of the best things is that they have a really well-informed forum on their website. Not only are representatives from Mackie fairly active there, but there are quite a few knowledgeable pros on there who drop in to give advice. I can't comment on any repair situations, since I haven't had to have any done.
The Wow Factor:
Um, you're either into recording gear or you aren't.
Overall:
At this price level, it's the thing to get. If I were to move up, it would be to a Mackie HDR or Radar system. I'd buy this one again if this one were stolen or somehow lost. I don't see myself outgrowing the SDR unless I end up getting a lot of cash coming in.
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Sound:
Sound's as good as anything else you could use. And you you are not skilled it can sound as bad as a hand held tape recorded. If you know what your doing, as one great R.E. said, "you could make a great recording with a two-by-four!!!!". It is great sounding. I have used tape of all types, and it sounds great. However, if you like take hiss then this may not be for you, cause the sound is clean and as smooth as your audio chain.
Feature:
It has all the great common features that any HD would have, minus the ability to watch the edit in screen. If you are used to tape recorders that this will fit the bill. It's great for the price.
Quality:
Very tough, will travel well, if that is what you want.
Value:
For project studio's and Demo work, you can't beat it. IF you got skill's your could make a pro album with this baby as well. It will go as far as you can take it. Get one, Maybe two.
The Wow Factor:
Good to have in the studio. You can charge a good rate for it's use on demo work. Or just have a ball in a fun time studio setup.
Overall:
A good while.
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