Edirol is shipping the R-4 4-channel portable digital recorder. The R-4 has been expanded to include support for Broadcast Wave Format file (BWF). The R-4 can now write the required metadata to comply with BWF standard. This allows the R-4 to function as an even more powerful portable 4-channel field recorder with a wider range of potential uses making it easier to import the audio into a wide selection of devices and software programs.
When a Project File is set to BWF on the R-4, the audio file written to the hard disk contains information about the recording time and the recording device in addition to the audio data. The resulting file can be loaded into a playback device or audio editor just like any conventional .wav file.
About the R-4
The R-4 is uniquely designed to offer sound professionals a cost-effective, high-quality solution to multi-channel field recording. The R-4 can record at audio resolutions up to 24-bit/96kHz on all four channels for complete high-resolution multi-channel performance. The unit features a built-in limiter and 5 different dynamics processors – 3-Band Parametric EQ, 6-Band Graphic EQ, Noise Gate, Enhancer, and Compressor / Desser. The R-4 records directly to an internal 40GB hard drive providing storage capacity for 58 hours of 16-bit/44.1kHz stereo recording or over 17 hours at 24-bit/96kHz. The R-4 includes a powerful array of input and output options including 4 XLR/TRS combo microphone jacks with phantom power, RCA analog output, S/PDIF Coaxial Input and Output, built-in stereo microphones, built-in speakers, and a USB2.0 connection for Drag & Drop access via a computer. Alternatively users can use CompactFlash(tm) memory to backup and transport data.
The R-4 has a large LCD display and features a Wave-Form Editor with a variety of functions for precision editing including trim, combine, split, and merge. The R-4 can drop markers anywhere within an audio file to quickly jump to important points in the file. The R-4 also offers an A-B Repeat allowing users to quickly and easily loop any section of audio.
The R-4 includes a “Pre-Record Function” which can capture as much as 29 seconds of audio to the record buffer before the record button is pressed. This allows users to press record AFTER they hear what they want and still capture the material they really wanted. The R-4 also includes an L connector to allow any compatible video camera to sync start and stop with the R-4. The R-4 runs on either the included AC Adapter or 8 AA batteries and includes a Carrying Case with shoulder strap.
The R-4 joins the extremely popular R-1 – a handheld, solid-state MP3/WAVE Recorder/Player – in clearly establishing EDIROL’s strength in the portable/field recording market. These two units satisfy many application areas including broadcast, location, and concert recording.
