Old Wine in New Bottle

The DMC-G7R emphasizes palm-sized capability for recording, playback, and editing. Featuring a Slot in mechanism, it differs from typical clamshell designs with a simple One Touch operation for smooth horizontal insertion and ejection of discs. However, Slot In requires more space, resulting in a bulkier body.

To complement its Slot In design, the device employs a horizontal layout with significant use of white space and curves, maintaining Kenwood's distinctive and highly recognizable style. Its elongated LCD screen displays track names, REC Level, battery status, and disc information at a glance, supporting up to 10 characters in English, numerals, and katakana. It's regrettable that it only comes equipped with screenless line controls, not upgraded alongside the main unit.

Equipped with the thoughtful "Synchro REC," it automatically starts and pauses recording based on audio detection (automatically deleting 4-second or longer silences and marking tracks in silent spots), making recording and editing easier and more convenient.

The LCD line control, inspired by diving watches, enhances its dynamic and trendy appeal with a versatile Tough aesthetic. Its front panel uses rare aluminum metal, elevating both design and texture, though it regrettably lacks the almost standard feature of backlighting.

Its battery boasts an exceptional endurance with REC 7 / Play 9.5hrs, making it one of the strongest in annual battery life. However, the absence of an essential external battery pack (BC-F5 ¥3,000) for MD seems perplexing as an optional purchase strategy.

Overall, compared to its predecessor DMC-F5R, it primarily differs in its approach to recording sampling conversion and LCD line control, offering a somewhat conservative redesign with less innovation.

PMD-R2