Sony Introduces Professional MiniDisc Recorders

MDS-E10 (Click for a close-up)

MDS-E12 (Click for a close-up)

Sony Electronics is debuting two 1U-high, rack mountable, MiniDisc recorders here at the Audio Engineering Society in Los Angeles. The MDS-E10 and the MDS-E12 incorporate the latest ATRAC type "R" algorithm for superior sound and provide a host of new options.

The new units replace the earlier 2U-high MDS-E58 and the MDS-E11. Sharing many of the same characteristics as their predecessor models, the MDS-E10 and MDS-E12 feature 10 "Instant Start" memories that allow immediate playback of any 10 tracks; SPDIF coaxial and optical digital I/O, as well as analog RCA I/O; Long REC/PLAY (Max. 320min) using ATRAC3 REC mode; and versatile menu control of such functions as: HOT START, AUTO CUE, AUTO PAUSE, SOUND START PAUSE, VARISPEED, NEXT TRACK RESERVE, LONG REC MODE (320min), AC TIMER REC and DIGITAL REC LEVEL ADJUST.

Additional features include:

• Transport controls can be accessed via Control-S (with supplied wired/wireless remote);
• RAM EDIT, which allows temporary, non-destructive editing of TOC files;
• A-B ERASE;
• Timer PLAY function;
• PS/2 port on front panel, which allows a PC Keyboard operation; and
• Easy-to-read florescent display.

"The MDS-E10 is ideal for radio broadcast and DJ applications," said Paul Foschino, marketing manager for professional audio products of Sony Electronics' Broadcast and Professional Company. "The 'Instant Start' option stores the very beginning of the audio in RAM on up to 10 tracks, which is great for triggering samples. Both models have pitch control as well. The MDS-E12 incorporates several additional options, such as analog XLR I/O, which makes it a higher-end recorder for broadcast pros, system contractors and studio users."

Supplementary MDS-E12 features include:

• REC/PLAY functions accessible by using the control relay jack;
• Built-in Parallel (GPI) port allows control from an external controller such as fader start.
• (An RS-232C port allows control via PC); and
• Extremely long recording is available when using ATRAC3 REC mode and Relay REC
• mode combined on the MDS-E12.

The MDS-E10 will be available in October for a suggested list price of $599; the MDS-E12 will be available in November for $899.