All user reviews of 4/5 for the Edirol R-44

Features:
4 Track Recorder SD card. Capable of recording at 44.1, 48, 88.2, 96 (4 runs) and 192 kHz (2 tracks only) 16 or 24-bit wave format or Broadcastwave (bwf), no mp3. It can record the micro level (with 48V Phantom) or online combo jack (unlike the ZOOM H4N which records that micro level although the instructions say otherwise). on the other hand-10dBV analog output and digital S / PDIF RCA jacks (no analog output +4 dB XLR or AES).
Several combinations of recording tracks are available: four mono tracks, one or two stereo tracks or four tracks encapsulated (ie one single file containing the 4-track-type LCRS 4.0). Focus on only records the tracks simultaneously, no re-re.
The R44 has a mini USB port to get the sounds on a PC or MAC without dedicated software since it is viewed like any USB drive, very convenient
4 LR6 batteries are required for operation, but life does not exceed one hour (allow batteries in quantity), but it also depends on the use of microphones, having often used with a stereo mic Studio Projects LSD2 very energy intensive. it also comes with power adapter.

Use:
I have personally used in 2 ways:
Console-output +4 dB line PA (either XLR or by JACK) level. nothing wrong it is transparent.
-In capture natural sounds outside. Nothing particular to say, the preamps are pretty good, but if quality microphones (like Neumann KM 180 series) is also used and the ambient sounds are of a certain level (if you're looking to capture the sound of not an ant is likely to have more breath than sound, lol). Note that the R44 has a muliplexeur / demultiplexer M / S for use TV / film, which can be applied either to the recording (conversion M / S stereo to GD) or playback (recording M / S Stereo playback GD). Unfortunately this does not apply to monitoring (can not save M / S stereo and listen GD) damage.

My opinion:
This recorder is designed for pros or amateurs, it requires some technical knowledge, such as file formats, features digital recording or even the types of microphones. (It does not just press REC to make it work). For comparison, the ZOOM H4N that I use is also rather for the fans and musicians, although it can be used professionally.

The pros:
The pro-side (can record 4.0, no mp3)
-Registration on SD card (not HD like the R4 Roland, therefore more reliable)
-Light weight
Its 4-in / 4 tracks
-Recording broadcastwave (wave with tags)
Its high-range (micro any line level)
-Quality preamps (a little better than I think ZOOM)
-Bright, buttons very convenient transportation

the -:
-Consumption of batteries (as often this type of device), about 1 hour with condenser microphones.
-No monitoring M / S
-Its audio outputs RCA public
-The display a bit small, especially peakmetres.
2-its internal mics without interest, unlike the ZOOM (which is its strength)