Sony MZ-R90 Personal MiniDisc Player

I've not been one to follow the MP3 craze. This has something to do with the capabilities of my PC, but more importantly with the ethical problems I find in copying an artist's work repeatedly. Consequently, when I was faced with the decision to purchase portable audio equipment I didn't consider the MP3 models and went straight for something, arguably more expensive, but that has been consitently been rated higher for quality and flexibility -- a minidisc player.

That said, and given that I've always trusted Sony as a manufacturer, I began the complex process of deciding which model to purchase. To some degree impulse, but, more importantly, early rave reviews compelled me to purchase the Sony MZ-R90. I'd never owned a minidisc player before so the first thing that I was struck by, as are so many people, was the diminutive size. It is supremely portable, as are the discs it reads. With a pair of pockets I can carry around 12 hours of music (using the built-in rechargable battery), something I continually amaze myself with. The other immediately obvious feature was the sound quality. At first, recording using an analog cable, I was impressed (especially given the CD-functionality of a recorded minidisc), but once I made the ~$40 investment in a optical cable I was stunned. The quality is absolutely phenomenal, and I would urge anyone who purchases this model to ensure that you'll be able to record digitally -- the extra investment is definitely worth it.

In terms of controls, the model is well thought out. I think this must be due to the trial and error of the early minidiscs. It's a very intuitive interface, and has some really excellent special features like the Name Bank, which allows you to store frequently used words and phrases that you can include in song titles. It's really helpful. Also, if you've never used a remote control you might think that it's sort of silly, but it's incredibly handy (and works quite well for one-handed use). I'm thoroughly satisfied with the functionality of the player.

It's battery life is one of the most astounding aspects of the player. With a 3 hour charge it will literally last up to 12 hours, and the savings on batteries I've made per hour of listening time (as compared with, say, a CD player) are phenomenal. On those couple occasions when it's been tricky to charge (say, on trips) the attached AA battery compartment more than fits the bill.

Some reviewers have complained the the ~9 second delay from when you press play on the powered-off unit to when the sound begins is a major hassle, but I've not been bothered by it too much. If it's this which gives it the amazing battery life I would not begin to complain, because it's most certainly worth it! Also, the device is VERY good about not skipping, which is not to say it never does, but that it rarely does and in fairly strenuous conditions.

My complaints are few, but perhaps significant. The readouts are well designed, but I realized only too late that they are prone to mild scratching, so I would urge anyone who purchases this model to be very careful with the face. Since I've learned this I've been cautious and it hasn't scratched any more than it did initially, so it's not a MAJOR issue, but be forewarned. Another problem I've encountered is that the unit had occasional problems in reading certain of my minidiscs. Oddly, these are Sony brand discs which were recorded by the unit itself, so it's not an issue of compatibility, and it's a rare phenomenon, but it's clearly frustrating when it happens. Opening and closing the unit two or three times usually allows the disc to be recognized.

The last problem is the most severe: the unit continually reads discs as "PROTECTED" despite the fact the the discs are set to be able to record. This is clearly a defect in the unit, although it didn't develop until about a month after I owned it. I've managed to avoid the problem by putting stickers over that corner of my discs before I record on them, but needless to say, this is a major hassle that I'd much prefer to avoid. Of course, I haven't seen this problem documented much on the web -- it might be a fluke -- but I would warn against it.

Overall the unit is ideal in many ways, and I'm extremely satisfied with it. The design and normal execution of the unit is fabulous and well thought out, but the little quirky issues that it occasionally experiences detract from my enjoyment.