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Marantz PMD661

Item ID: PMD661

Handheld SD Recorder, 24-bit/96kHz Resolution, Switchable 2 XLR and TRS Inputs, Phantom Power, Built-in Stereo Condenser Microphones, Built-in Stereo Speakers, OLED Display, 1/4" Headphone Jack, and USB

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From Our Research Team:

Enjoy High-quality Field Recording - Straight to SD!

The Marantz PMD661 embodies the same, convenient handheld design as Marantz's other portable recorders. Yet, Marantz upped the ante, making the PMD661 capable of recording at even higher sample rates and bit depths - straight to SD media. Marantz's other handheld recorders top out at 16-bit or 48kHz, but the PMD661 brings you up to 24-bit/96kHz, making it worthy of high-level recording applications. As far as inputs, you get both analog and digital - plus built-in stereo condenser microphones. And, for convenience, there are even stereo speakers built-into the Marantz PMD661.

Marantz PMD661 SD Handheld Recorder at a Glance:
  • Records to SD all the way up to high-quality 24-bit/96kHz
  • Built-in stereo condenser microphones and built-in speakers
  • Large, easy-to-view OLED display and angled LED meters
  • Advanced playback and recording functions
  • USB data port for easily transferring files
  • Powered by four AA batteries - for over 5 hours of operation
  • Includes free PMD Mark Editor software

Records to SD all the way up to high-quality 24-bit/96kHz
The Marantz PMD661 is a rugged, field-worthy handheld recorder that's designed to handle top-level recording needs. That's because the PMD661 can record at higher sample rates and bit depths than Marantz's other handheld recorders - you can record at 44.1, 48, or 96kHz and at 16- or 24-bit. You can also choose between recording MP3 or WAV(BWF) files. All your audio is stored on SD or SDHC memory cards - convenient for their small size and high storage capacities, as well as their affordability.

Built-in stereo condenser microphones and built-in speakers
If you want the ability to just "point and shoot" - free of cabling, external microphones, and extra gear, then the Marantz PMD661 is just your ticket. Not only does it feature high-quality built-in stereo condenser microphones, but it also offers stereo speakers onboard. You'll be glad you have onboard speakers when you hear back a quick idea or check levels before beginning a recording - you won't have to pull out a pair of headphones, just to reference the sound. Although, the PMD661 sports a 1/4" headphone jack, so the option is there if you need it. What's more, you also have switchable balanced XLR mic and line inputs, with 48V phantom power for recording with your own gear. A S/PDIF digital input is also onboard.

Large, easy-to-view OLED display and angled LED meters
The Marantz PMD661 is designed to make it as easy as possible to record. Its large OLED (organic LED) display is easy to view, and the user interface features improved navigation functions, so you can quickly find files, work with them, and set up your recordings. What's more, there are on-screen record level meters in addition the PMD661's convenient angled LED displays.

Advanced playback and recording functions
You can take care of advanced tasks using the PMD661's built-in functionality. If you need to transcribe audio, the PMD661 features pitch control and user-definable skip back - very handy. Other advanced features include Timer Record and Timer Playback, Copy Segment, and File Divide.

USB data port for easily transferring files
Whenever you've captured your audio, transferring the files to your computer is a breeze. The Marantz PMD661 features USB 2.0 data port which provides fast data transfer to your Mac or PC. The device will appear on your computer just like you plugged in any external hard drive or flash drive - from there, just drag-and-drop them to wherever you need, and manage your files from your computer.

Powered by four AA batteries - for over 5 hours of operation
The Marantz PMD661 receives its power via four AA alkaline batteries - and it can operate for an impressive five hours, under typical conditions. It's also designed to accept off-the-shelf rechargeable NiMH batteries and can be powered by an optional DC adapter.

Includes free PMD Mark Editor software
In addition to the PMD661's easily navigable user interface, flexible input options, and excellent sound quality, Marantz bundled its Mark Editor software for free for the first time. This software lets you adjust marker points you make on recorded files after you've recorded, so you can perform basic editing functions on any PC or laptop without needing any extra software.

Marantz PMD661 SD Handheld Recorder Features:
  • Records MP3/WAV(BWF) files to SD/SDHC memory cards
  • 44.1/48/96kHz sample rate selections in 16 or 24-bit
  • Switchable balanced XLR MIC/Line inputs with +48v phantom power
  • S/PDIF Digital Input
  • Built-in stereo condenser microphones
  • 2 XLR inputs, 1/8" aux input
  • RCA L/R line outputs
  • Large, easy-view OLED (organic LED) display
  • Multi-function user interface with improved navigation
  • Angled LED and on-screen record level meters for easy visibility
  • 1/4” headphone jack with independent level control
  • Built-in stereo speakers
  • Solid, field-worthy handheld design
  • 4xAA Alkaline batteries provide for over 5 hours of typical operation
  • Also accepts off-the-shelf rechargeable NiMH batteries
  • Mini USB 2.0 data port for fast transfer of files to PC / MAC
  • Transcription playback functions include pitch control and user-definable skip back
  • Other advanced features: Timer Record / Playback, Copy Segment, and File Divide
  • Includes free Mark Editor software
  • Includes AC adapter

The Marantz PMD661 is a field-worthy handheld recorder that's ready to handle your professional needs!

PMD661 Image Gallery

Specification Detail
Simultaneous Rec Tracks 2
Simultaneous Play Tracks 2
A/D Resolution 24-bit/96kHz
Built-in Mic(s) No
Audio Interface No
Analog Input Types 2 x XLR, 1 x 1/8"
Analog Inputs 3
Analog Output Types 2 x RCA, 1 x TRS (Headphone)
Analog Outputs 3
Digital Input Type 1 x S/PDIF
Digital Inputs 1
Digital Output Type No Digital Outputs
Digital Outputs 0
Headphone Output type 1/4"
Headphone Outputs 1
Built-in Speaker Yes
Memory (internal) No Internal Memory
Memory (removable) 1GB SD Card Included
Built-in Effects No Effects
USB Yes
FireWire No
Power Supply AC Adapter Included, 4 x AA Batteries/NiMH Batteries Optional
Max Battery Life 5 hrs.
Stand Mountable No
Height 6.5"
Width 3.7"
Depth 1.4"
Weight .88 lbs.
Manufacturer Part Number PMD661

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Reviews

based on 4 reviews

my new go-to field recorder - wow...

by E. Persson from Minneapolis, MN USA
May 6, 2011
Music Background: Electrical engineer with recording and live sound background, keyboard player
I have been recording for 30 years - mostly acoustic stuff - recitals, small ensembles, piano, flute, strings, guitar, organ, vocal, choral, school events, and the occasional rock band. I have some g... read more [+]reat microphones - particularly love the Neumann KM184 and the TLM127. I have used these in X-Y, ORTF, A-B spaced omni, mid-side, and Jecklin disk configurations for live recording, depending on the situation. Up to now, I have been running Protools with a rack-002 hardware interface and MacBook Pro in a rolling ATA case. While this is not extremely portable, I like the quality of the recordings I can capture using 24/96 sampling - and I have 8 channels on the rack...

But a few times recently, I have had Protools 8 freeze-up on my mac, and had to re-boot in the middle of a performance - not good! So I began looking at portable field recorders. The Sound Devices look really good, but I can't justify the $4-5k price, so I started looking at the Tascam, Sony and Marantz products. In addition I recently got a Canon EOS 7D which shoots HD video, but the internal audio interface is quite weak. So I had yet another use for a small but high quality field recorder.

My main criteria were external XLR Mic inputs with a good low-noise mic pre, 48V phantom power and switchable attenuation before the pre input, and the ability to record 24-bit, 96 kHz stereo. That pretty much narrowed the field to the Marantz PMD661. I was a bit nervous because I had the perception that the Japanese pro-sumer stuff from the likes of Denon, Marantz, Tascam and Sony was decent for home stereo kind of applications, but not really at the pro level I was looking for (especially concerned about low-noise).

Well - I was blown-away by the very first test recording I made: I had the KM184s set-up ORTF in the studio. I made my first preset (thanks to the other reviews on this site) with no automatic gain control, and set the record level halfway, and hit the button. I walked around the mics talking for 30 seconds, then went to listen to the result. I plugged-in my favorite Beyer DT 770 headphones, and hit play. At first I thought I must have something muted because there was no sound - but then I heard footsteps (my own on the recording). The stereo imaging and detail was so real, I could swear there was someone else in the room walking around! The noise-floor is lower than my Digi Rack. I really couldn't believe how good the recording sounded - I listened to it half a dozen times on different headphones.

I have recorded an acoustic piano and flute audition also now - the sound is flawless. I love this recorder! The supplied 2 Gig card is good for about an hour of 24/96, but I can of course get much bigger SD cards for longer recordings.

The instruction manual is still in its plastic bag, where I expect it will remain for eternity, because the unit is so intuitive and easy to use. The display is great - highly visible in all kinds of conditions. I haven't even tried using the built-in internal microphones - I really don't plan to use them. close [-]

As good as (even better than) you can hope for considering the price!

by R Peterson from Austin, TX USA
May 18, 2009
Music Background: Musician, Composer, Recording Engineer
I've had the PMD661 for roughly a month now and have been able to play with it in a variety of applications since the day I received it. The unit went on vacation with me where I recorded sounds from ... read more [+]the airport, airplane (yes, I left it on when they asked us to shut off "devices with a power button," live shows, spoken word, nature sounds, urban sounds, and drunken chats (during which I thankfully remained silent). I used a single AKG 1000S in mono, a PAIR of the same mics, a couple of other random dynamic mics, as well as the internal mics all the while testing the different audio sample/bit rates; here's what I found:

Internal mics- As can be expected, they are really great for a "Quick, grab-that-sound," application. For outdoor sounds they are actually quite nice but in all applications they have a bit of the "canned" sound which is not so overt as to make them non-useful. Sounds that will be tucked into a mix for music will be fine using the internal mics. As one would expect, if you need pristine quality, you should use your favorite mic(s) and ought to consider external A/D conversion. DO NOT USE THESE FOR RECORDING A LIVE SHOW-unless you are far away from the mains. My levels were not clipping at all when I used these to record a live band, but the mics definitely suffered from overloading. I got all kinds of low-mid distortion even with the levels set well below clip.

External mics- This depends on your microphone, so I'll focus this review on my interpretation of the A/D conversion. It's not bad... Not bad at all. I really couldn't expect much better for the price. The connectors are nice, and the fact that it even *has* both an external and an internal microphone option is wonderful!

Audio conversion- I love the presets...love them. There are three total presets available which the user can set to provide easy access to any combination of ext/int mic(s), stereo/mono config, bitrates, filetype (mp3/WAV), and sample rates. MP3's sound, well, MP3ish, but should be fine if you're recording something that's not important to you (someone else's crappy band, a lecture that you want to look like you care about) or for effect. I really focussed in on the WAV recording at 16 and 24 bit settings. I'm really pleased with the sound quality- REALLY. Both settings have their uses, and if you've read all this drivel so far, you already know when to use which.

Build/firmware/software/notes-
  1. ALS (compression) feature- When you turn on the unit for the first time the FIRST THING to do is to disable this feature, unless you're after a poor dynamically compressed sound. The unit ships with this feature on and it's unfavorable for anything important other than the effect itself.
  2. SDHC card- Prices are cheap on these and I was really happy to see its inclusion on this model from the PMD660.
  3. Chassis- It's pretty rugged and well built. The buttons are intuitive and nothing seems to be in the way or poorly placed. The external mics are nicely protected.
  4. Software- I really wish the software would have some sort of mass file naming option- a batch feature or a spread sheet(ish) layout would be VERY welcome as this unit sounds so nice and is small enough that I take it everywhere and record everything. The onboard naming features are easy to use, but are a bit cumbersome and it takes quite a long time to change the name of one file, let alone a few hundred.
The PMD661 is a great unit, and I'm very pleased with the value for the dollar this piece offers.

Matt Emmick (ext 1249) is my sales rep, and he's always done a great job for me making great recommendations and always giving good advice. close [-]

Marantz PMD661

by H. Edwards from Washington, DC
June 6, 2011
Music Background:
This is a superior voice recorder. I used it to record an oral history. I had no problems whatsoever. The internal mic is fine, but for interviews it is best to use an external mic. I recorded in WA... read more [+]V. format and the sound quality was terrific. It is very easy to transfer the auto files to a PC. The display is bright and easy to read. I spent a few hours reading the instructions and testing the device (because I am a novice); but it was a snap once I got going. Use the AC power if you are interviewing. The device is all that it is advertised to be. Easily a 4, and maybe a 4.5. close [-]

PMD661

by Dru from Indiana
June 23, 2010
Music Background: stuff.
Ive been using the 661 for live band recordings and for demos from practice. This recorder has been invaluable to our band and myself outside of the band. The internal mics are not horrible. I tend to... read more [+] call that setting "cassette tape sound." For some things this is just fine. The inclusion of external mics is what makes this unit shine. I have used a variety of mics and everything sounds great. I would recomend this unit to anyone in a band that is tired of messing with 8 tracks or someone who does alot of idoe work to improve the sound of thier work. I fully recommend this item. close [-]

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See Also: Field Recorders , Marantz , Marantz Portable Recorders

Marantz PMD661

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