I'm an oral historian investigating a move from the use of audio tapes to a digital recording and transcription system. I'm interested in the following regarding digital systems: 1. Suggested brands 2. Experiences both good and bad 3. What effect do airport security (x-ray) systems have on the devices Thanks for your help. KB Anderson

KB Anderson wrote: > > I'm an oral historian investigating a move from the use of audio tapes to a > digital recording and transcription system. I'm interested in the following > regarding digital systems: > > 1. Suggested brands > 2. Experiences both good and bad > 3. What effect do airport security (x-ray) systems have on the devices > > Thanks for your help. I've asked my audio engineer, and he has responded: Portable Tascam DAT with canon input (XLR) - (grounded and balanced input) Sennheiser ME-40, ME-80 shotgun microphone Rycote suspension mounting and foam cover (or similar) (in case the mic is moved or you're outside on a windy day) tripod mic stand (don't hand-hold a mic) Stay away from brands who made musical instruments and have moved into recording systems. Sony's not bad for DAT recorders too. OPTION 2 (cheaper, not as totally fantastic but nevertheless decent): Digital Sony MiniDisc recorder Sony condenser microphone with shock-mount (pocket portability) No problems with X-rays at airports with either system (lots of experience). Hope this helps. David