The PCM-D100 is compatible with 2.8 MHz /1-bit direct stream digital DSD, a format that records source sounds using digital signals, but in a format that closely resembles analogue waveforms. It is also compatible with recording and playback in 192 kHz/24-bit linear PCM High Resolution Audio. The unit can reproduce ultra-high range, delicate musical components and is capable of recording with excellent audio quality, from low to high ranges. This is achieved by equipping the device with a broad playback frequency band that easily exceeds the audible band of 20 Hz to 25 kHz.
"This new model is Sony's highest-quality portable digital recorder, designed to faithfully reproduce sound sources such as instrument performances and sounds of nature, as closely to the original as possible," says James Leach, marketing manager, professional audio, Sony Europe. "The PCM-D100 recorder is part of our High-Resolution Audio initiative, a complete series of products designed to help music lovers conveniently access and enjoy the digital music they love in the best playback quality available."
The recorder features a highly-sensitive directional microphone that incorporates a newly-developed 15mm unidirectional mic unit. This enables the user to adjust the sound collection range of the mic to suit various sound, from performances with a small number of people, through to concert halls with a much larger group of performers. Select the 90-degree 'X-Y stereo position' when the sound is in close proximity to the mic, or the 120-degree 'wide stereo position' when in more spacious venues, or for performances by larger groups of people. The highly-sensitive, broadband recording functionality expresses frequency properties up to 40 kHz, to fully leverage the advantages of DSD recording.
(Jim Evans)
