I think you can change the recording levels on some of the newer Sony
models, but don't take my word for it, check the minidisc.org site and
forums.
I'd also remommend getting one with NetMD which allows you to save
tracks directly from your PC ie. use your MD as an MP3 player.
quoted 25 lines Date: Fri, 10 Jan 2003 21:24:51 -0800
> Date: Fri, 10 Jan 2003 21:24:51 -0800
> From: "Nick Rogerson" <nickrogerson@attbi.com>
> Subject: OT mini disc advice
> >
> >Hello,
> >I am shopping for a mini disc recorder for field recordings
> >and was wondering if any of y'all have any input as to what
> >to go for or what to avoid.
>
> This post might be late, I'm catching up on the old digests. Anyway,
> I'd strongly recommend a portable Sharp or Aiwa minidisc. They allow
> the record level to be changed while doing the recording. AFAIK in the
> Sony models you'll have to stop/pause the recording, change the level
> and start recording again. Changing the levels on the fly is a major
> feature if you're doing field recording, as the volume of the sounds
> can vary much so the recording level will need to change as well to
> get the best definition possible with clipping. They're wonderful in
> sound quality as well, but any modern minidisc recorder is good in
> terms of sound. There's an Aiwa model (AM-F80) that comes with a
> backlit, very handy if you'll be taping in the dark. Make sure the
> model you're buying has a microphone input, as some don't have one (or
> have only line input). Also, check the minidisc geeks at
> www.minidisc.org and related newsgroups, they'll give you a better help.
>
> -Paulo