Zoom MRS-4 vs. Fostex MR-8: a couple questions

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Ricklh

Ricklh

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I'm looking at these two units and leaning towards the new Fostex (8 tracks instead of 4). Here's my question regarding the Zoom MRS-4: it has 2 line inputs and 2 aux. inputs, none that are specifically labeled "mic inputs" and no built-in mic either. To use a mic with this unit, I assume I'd have to use a mic pre-amp such as an ART Tube MP before plugging into the Zoom? Any Zoom users/owners here that can answer that?
Also, the Zoom has 4 tracks with 8 virtual tracks on each of the four. The Fostex has 8 tracks, no virtual. Would one be more useful than the other?

Thanks.
 
I have an MRS-4 which I don't use anymore, having upgraded to the MRS-1266.

I never had a problem using a mic without a mic preamp. You just have to turn the gain up on the trim control knob. But you can use one if you want to.

Of course, the MRS-4 does not have an XLR input, just two 1/4" inputs.

Also, the MRS-4 only records at 32 Khz.

On the other hand, I found the virtual tracks to be very useful. You can record alternate takes on one track and pick the best one. You can also record onto all 4 tracks, then bounce down to a v-take on one track, and record additional tracks.

As for which one is "better" you will need to decide which features are most valuable to you. The unit that meets your criteria is the better one for you.
 
Almost apples and oranges...

This is not a kock on the Zoom, because it's a fine unit, but it doesn't appear to have nearly as much as the Fostex.

The Fostex has 8 tracks, 2 XLR inputs, 16 bit 44.1, uncompressed recording. For those reasons alone you're talking two really different machines.
 
Ricklh said:
I'm looking at these two units and leaning towards the new Fostex (8 tracks instead of 4). Here's my question regarding the Zoom MRS-4: it has 2 line inputs and 2 aux. inputs, none that are specifically labeled "mic inputs" and no built-in mic either. To use a mic with this unit, I assume I'd have to use a mic pre-amp such as an ART Tube MP before plugging into the Zoom? Any Zoom users/owners here that can answer that?
Also, the Zoom has 4 tracks with 8 virtual tracks on each of the four. The Fostex has 8 tracks, no virtual. Would one be more useful than the other?

Thanks.
Click to expand...

Rick,

I own the Zoom MRS-4, great little machine.

I will try to answer your questions as simply as possible.

1. The line inputs double as mic inputs, you just adjust the levels accordingly. It does not have to have a sererate mic pre.

2. The two aux. inputs cannot be recorded, they are strickly for listening, and have a set volume level, this means whatever you plug into them must have its own volume control.

What this means is that the MRS-4 only has two recordable inputs. You will almost asuradly need a stand alone mixer.

3. The Zoom has no real guitar proccesing, I use a Pod.

It does have chorus and delay, but no distortion, or amp modeling. The Fostex does have a guitar proccesor, if I'm not mistaken.

4. With the Zoom you will have to do more bouncing down, than you will with the Fostex.

The Zoom fits my need fine, because I have a guitar proccesor, and a mixer that makes up for the Zooms inputs.

Seems like the Fostex would be a better choice, flexibility wise, got to say I do dig my Zoom though.

You will most likely be better off with the Fostex. I think it also comes with 128 mb card, as apposed to the Zooms 32mb card. This is something to consider, as memory cards aren't cheap.

I have a couple of songs that I did on my Zoom MRS-4 that your welcome to listen to.

Songs; 1 Steeley Jam
2. Long Ago 3

http://www.nowhereradio.com/gt/singles

Good luck

GT
 
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