Now Korg are supplementing their existing multi-track digital recorders with the 20GB, pocketable MR-1 (US$899 MSRP), and the 40GB, tabletop MR-1000 (US$1499 MSRP).

Shipping right now, these are “1-Bit” recorders, recording “DSDIFF, DSF, and WSD 1-bit formats, as well as multi-bit PCM format (BWF) with resolutions up to 24-bit/192 kHz”. If you’re like me and thought that more bits was better, Korg have helpfully provided a PDF entitled “Future Proof Recording Explained”, to clear up any misconceptions you had about the usefulness of more bits. The executive summary: When you’re sampling really really fast, the only numbers you need are 1 and 0, to indicate whether the sample is up from last time, or down. That’s my only insight on the science part for now, people who understand more feel free to debate the 1-bit revolution in comments.

Hardware Features

MR-1

• 20GB internal drive (6 hours @ highest quality 1-bit, 20 hours @ CD quality, MP3 support apparently available mid-2007)
• Ability to plug in external FAT32 USB hard drive for expanded recording space
• USB 2 transfers
• Rechargeable lithium polymer battery (no word on battery life) or AC power
• Dual balanced mini phone plug inputs
• 2 track simultaneous recording and playback
• Includes stereo electret condenser mic
• Backlit LCD
• Dimensions: 64 (W) x 120 (D) x 24 (H) mm / 2.52″ (W) x 4.72″ (D) x 0.94″ (H)
• Weight 200g (7oz) with batteries
• More specs (including plenty with dB and Hz for the audio nerds)

MR-1000

• 40GB internal drive (6 hours @ highest quality 1-bit, 40 hours @ CD quality, MP3 support apparently available mid-2007)
• Ability to plug in external FAT32 USB hard drive for expanded recording space
• USB 2 transfers
• Power by 8 AA batteries or AC power
• Dual XLR/ 1/4″ inputs with mic pres, phantom power
• XLR and RCA outs
• 2 track simultaneous recording and playback
• Backlit LCD
• Dimensions: 192(W) x 170(D) x 56(H) mm/7.56″(W) x 6.69″(D) x 2.20″(H)
• 1.0 kg (2.20 lbs) without batteries
• More specs

So. Fun times ahead for the field recordists! Now someone should take all of the available options and review them somewhere exotic. Peter is in Hawaii right now. Can we get a couple of these and some decent mics shipped to him so he has something to fill those empty internetless hours before he returns?