See how this recorder stacks up in our portable recorder comparison chart.

It all started in 2005 with the M-Audio MicroTrack 24/96. I jumped at the chance to review this inexpensive new flash recorder, lugging it along on a trip to Maui to record band rehearsals and live shows. As luck would have it, the next recorder I reviewed, the Edirol R-09, also arrived in time for one of my periodic trips to Hawaii, where I produce the Aloha Music Camp.

Now, in what amounts to a scary bit of synchronicity, both M-Audio and Edirol rolled out revamped versions that arrived just as I was packing for yet another trip to the land of palm trees and plumeria.

I was curious to see how the new models compared to the originals: are the changes evolutionary or revolutionary? Because I've covered each recorder pretty thoroughly already, here I'll point out changes and improvements; you might wish to revisit the original reviews for background.

Compact and covered with I/O, the M-Audio MicroTrack II is a flexible choice for field recordists. (Click to enlarge.)

MicroTrack II: Back in Black

In my first review, I gave the MicroTrack high marks for ease of use and audio quality, but complained about the battery and non-standard phantom power. I was curious to see if M-Audio paid attention.

The improved MicroTrack II looks and feels almost the same as the original. That means it's tiny, lightweight, and still sports 1/4" TRS, 1/8" stereo mic/line, and S/PDIF inputs, as well as RCA audio outs.

Good news: it now supports full 48V phantom power as well, vastly increasing the number of microphones you can use. However, as with the original, you must take care when using phantom power and a TRS plug, lest you inadvertently damage the device. (See page 4 of my original review for details.)

The MicroTrack II defaults to one-touch recording, which means that the only way to set levels is while you're recording. However, it's a simple matter to change the setting so that one press on the Rec button puts the MicroTrack II into record-ready mode and a second starts recording. As that's my preferred way to work, I'm happy to have the choice.

On the downside, you have to be alert, because there is no flashing LED indicating you're in record-ready mode, just a tiny Pause icon on the fairly dim display — easy to miss in a low-light situation.

M-Audio has improved input level setting as well. The three-way mic level sliders are gone, and good riddance. I was able to record sources at a wide variety of levels with no problems. However, if recording drums and artillery is your thing, pick up the optional 10dB pad.

What's New, Pussycat?

Here's a quick rundown on some of the physical changes in the new models. Both M-Audio and Edirol continue to upgrade their products via free firmware updates. Visit their sites (M-Audio; Edirol/Roland) to make sure you have the latest.

MicroTrack II vs. MicroTrack

• New color: Black
• 48V phantom power
• Analog limiter
• Improved battery with longer life and faster charging
• Selectable One Touch or Record Ready/Record operation
• Extended input range
• Records files larger than 2GB
• USB 2.0 Hi-Speed transfer
• Monitor S/PDIF input via headphones while recording
• Add markers while recording

Edirol replaced the rickety battery door on the original R-09 with a sturdier hatch.

Edirol R-09HR vs. R-09

• Case covered in black silicone rubber
• Wireless remote
• Supports up to 96kHz WAV files
• Improved microphones
• Isolated Adaptive Recording Circuit (I.A.R.C.; separates audio and power circuitry to reduce noise)
• Built-in speaker
• OLED display
• Table stand