・MD-MS701

057   |   Sharp  |   '97  08.29

New Design・New Colors・New Era　Smallest Recorder

By Sharp's press release in '97, the demand for their entire MD product line increased by 4.74 million units compared to the previous year, with portable estimated to account for about 50%, totaling 2.37 million units. This series of products not only became smaller and lighter, but also enhanced operability and design, fully embracing the unique portability charm of MD.

The focus was primarily on the rapidly growing demand among teenagers, shifting from previous refined simplicity to a trendy and dynamic design language. The color schemes are more vibrant and lively, perfect for enjoying popular digital high-quality sound on the go.

A large circular silver mirror surface with iridescent reflections embodies a dynamic and novel design that appeals to a wide range of users.

Not only has the exterior been completely refreshed, but internal advancements are also notable：

• A spindle motor 25% thinner than before
• An optical head 6% thinner than before
• Newly developed 1 chip LSI / IC
• Change from cylindrical to square lithium-ion battery
• A 55% reduction in board area compared to the MD-SS70

Thorough internal and external renovation　allowing the MS701 to feature intuitive Slot In disc loading/unloading and standout disc visibility, while transforming from the previous large rectangular shape to a pocket-sized compact body.

Accompanying the body's innovation is a new LCD remote control, equipped with Recorder's first backlight illumination, highlighting its dazzling technological image in various settings, whether outdoors or in low light conditions.

The thoughtful "Synchro REC" function detects audio signals of 3 seconds or longer to automatically start/stop recording, making recording and editing easier. The Mono-only 2x quick playback is efficient for reviewing content such as long meetings. Time Auto Mark allows for timed markers at 3,5,10 min intervals.

The Sampling Rate Converter supports recording in different digital formats with varying frequencies, such as BS satellite programs and DAT. Additionally, Sharp introduced the AD-A12 sound card (¥25,000), which, when combined with optical fiber, allows digital music recording from a PC.

Audio compression/decoding uses the 5th generation ATRAC 24Bit, providing clear, detailed sound with enhanced fidelity and dynamic range for REC/play.

The battery life has been reduced to REC 3.5hrs / play 5 hrs, but an external battery pack is now included.

MD-MS702