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The Roger Nichols Gear Collection

Fostex FR-2LE

Item ID: FR2LE

CompactFlash Recorder with 24-bit/96kHz Resolution, USB 2.0, Built-in Stereo Microphones, Pre-record Buffer, and 128MB CompactFlash Card

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From Our Research Team:

A CompactFlash Recorder That's Ready for the Road!

The Fostex FR-2LE provides all you need when out recording in the field: a compact device in a rugged chassis with high-quality sound and features galore. The Fostex FR-2LE features a built-in stereo microphone, so you're always ready to record. What's more, it offers two XLR/TRS combo inputs with phantom power for recording with your own microphones. You can record in Broadcast WAV format at up to excellent 24-bit/96kHz quality right onto CompactFlash. A CompactFlash card, an AC adapter, a shoulder strap, a wired remote, and a carry pouch come with the Fostex FR-2LE.

Fostex FR-2LE CompactFlash Field Recorder at a Glance:
  • Record high-quality 24-bit/96kHz audio to CompactFlash
  • Lightweight, yet rugged
  • Pre-record buffer feature and new file feature
  • Built-in stereo microphones and MP3 mode for quick recording
  • USB 2.0 connection
  • CompactFlash card and accessories included

Record high-quality 24-bit/96kHz audio to CompactFlash
The Fostex FR-2LE records to convenient CompactFlash, offering up high-quality Broadcast WAV Format files at 24-bit/96kHz resolution. What's more, it offers an MP3 mode, for basic recording that boasts over 92 hours of recording on an 8GB CompactFlash card. You can record over 12 hours at 16-bit/44.1kHz, CD-quality sound on an 8GB CompactFlash card.

Lightweight, yet rugged
Designed to be rugged enough for the road, yet portable enough to carry in a backpack, the FR-2LE is an adept CompactFlash recorder. It can also operate for eight hours off of standard, off-the-shelf batteries. An AC adapter comes included, as well.

Pre-record buffer feature and new file feature
The Fostex FR-2LE offers a 2-second "pre-record" buffer, so you won't miss the start of something if you don't push record fast enough. The FR-2LE also offers a "one take, one file" system, so you don't have to overwrite audio.

Built-in stereo microphones and MP3 mode for quick recording
While you can use your own microphones with the FR-2LE, it also features built-in stereo microphones, making it easy to just push and record. Fostex also gave the FR-2LE a basic MP3 mode. When paired together, it's easy to quickly record memos, dictate notes to yourself before setting up microphones, and lay down thoughts at a moment's notice.

USB 2.0 connection
You can easily transfer files from the Fostex FR-2LE to your computer using the built-in USB 2.0 connector.

CompactFlash card and accessories included
In addition to a 128MB CompactFlash card, the Fostex FR-2LE comes with an AC adapter, a shoulder strap, a carry pouch, and a wired remote control.

Fostex FR-2LE CompactFlash Field Recorder Features:
  • Included CompactFlash card (128MB)
  • Recording on Type II CompactFlash card
  • Lightweight, yet tough with a rigid chassis
  • FAT32 file system & BWF Stereo file format
  • MP3 recording/playback
  • Up to 24-bit/96kHz audio performance
  • 2 x phantom-powered XLR mic inputs with level adjustment control
  • ALC (Off/On/Limiter) and HPF (On/Off, 100Hz -12dB/Oct)
  • Built-in stereo microphones for quick memo recording
  • USB 2.0 for high speed file transfer to PC
  • 2 second Pre Rec buffer
  • 1 take = 1 file system (eliminates overwrites)
  • Approx. 8 hours battery operation
  • Wired remote controller with mic attachment belt
  • AC Adapter included
  • Shoulder strap and carry pouch included
  • 2.24" (H) x 8.11" (W) x 5.19" (D)
  • 1.76 lbs. (without battery)

The Fostex FR-2LE offers convenient CompactFlash recording in a rugged, road-ready chassis!

FR-2LE Image Gallery

Specification Detail
Simultaneous Rec Tracks 2
Simultaneous Play Tracks 2
A/D Resolution 24-bit/96kHz
Built-in Mic(s) 2
Audio Interface No
Analog Input Types 2 x Combo
Analog Inputs 2
Analog Output Types 2 x RCA, 1 x 1/8" (Headphone)
Analog Outputs 3
Digital Input Type No Digital Inputs
Digital Inputs 0
Digital Output Type No Digital Outputs
Digital Outputs 0
Headphone Output type 1/8"
Headphone Outputs 1
Built-in Speaker No
Memory (internal) No Internal Memory
Memory (removable) 128MB CompactFlash Included
Built-in Effects No
USB Yes
FireWire No
Power Supply AC Adapter Included, Rechargable NiMH Batteries Optional
Max Battery Life 8 hrs.
Stand Mountable No
Height 8.11"
Width 5.2"
Depth 2.4"
Weight 1.76 lbs.
Manufacturer Part Number FR2-LE

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Reviews

based on 1 review

Great recorder at a great price!

by Alex from Knoxville, TN
February 28, 2011
Music Background: Production and audio post for TV and film.
This was purchased for use as a second-system recorder along a DSLR camera for HD video production.

If you're in the market for a lower-cost recorder, this is certainly something to con... read more [+]sider. Hand-held recorders have their place and time, but are not friendly for those of us who need a recorder that fits in a bag and remains accessible during run-and-gun operation.

The FR-2LE sounds great. The pre-amps are good, the line-level recording is pristine, and the learning curve isn't too steep. The top-accessible recording controls and LED meter are convenient for bag use, and the recorder is also right at home on a cart or table.

The file-naming system has a few nifty options, including one that uses a reel/scene/take system. This makes organization for post-production much easier.

There are a few quirks. The menu system is a little tricky, so study the manual. The headphone amp isn't the best in the world, and may introduce some artifacts during monitoring... but fear not, none of that gets recorded. The battery cage design is also a bit awkward, and can be challenging to get into the machine the first time. The record level control is also a bit loose (I prefer just a little resistance).

Another notable item: recording file format cannot be changed on the fly. Where other recorders allow resolution, bit-rate, and format to be changed back and forth, the FR-2LE requires a reformat of the card in order to switch. This also destroys any previously recorded data. So in a situation where MP3 may be necessary, keep a CF card on hand that's formatted for MP3 and swap cards when needed.

Last, the LED meter on the front of the recorder has two options: peak and level. As low-resolution as the meter is (only 6 LED segments), the peak option is all but useless. It's also the default factory setting, so be sure that is changed before use.

In all, this is probably one of the best mid-range recorders out there under $900 and is certainly more flexible and more robust than the cheap hand-held recorders. The bag-friendly form factor is a major plus, and the ease of operation and quality of recordings make it a worthy investment.

I'm rating it as a 4 because there are certainly better options out there (more expensive options) that have better I/O connections, time code, etc. But in the world of budget-minded audio gear, this one's a definite winner. close [-]

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See Also: Portable Recorders , Fostex , Fostex Portable Recorders

Fostex FR-2LE

Today's Payment: $209.66
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