Has anyone compared the Edirol R-4 Pro with the Sound Devices 744T?
 

Hi all. . .

I've just ordered a RED One camera and am looking for a recorder to use with a dual system. I really like the features of the Edirol R-4 Pro, especially the fact that it has FOUR XLR inputs and four direct outputs. The 744T only has two XLRs. And the Edirol is half the price. It seems like a great deal, but I wonder about the quality.

So, I guess the bottom line question is this: Is the Edirol R-4 Pro capable of generating truly professional results?

Stephen

I know both people who purchased the R4 Pro and those who have the 744T. The R4 does seem a little cheaper since it is plastic instead of metal, but sound quality wise, both seem to produce very professional results. There are some people who are doing modifications to the R4 Pro, so you can get a cleaner sound (usually this is done for music recording). There are concert recordings on archive.org where people used both, so you could hear them for yourself. However, these are music samples and you have to look at mic selection being used too, because you might find you like one over the other based on some music selection, but the mics will play a big part in that.

Personally, if I was going to buy a 4 channel recorder, the R4 would definitely be on my list over the 744T, for just the reason you mentioned. Four preamps, which may not be important if you're using a bunch of radios, but if you plan on using multiple microphones, they could be very useful.

Wayne

Thanks for the advice. I'm very strongly interested in the R-4 Pro and apparently Doug Oade is about to release his modifications for the R-4 Pro. Since his work is apparently highly regarded, I'll probably buy one of his modified units unless I hear some reason why I shouldn't.

Thanks again.

Stephen