The R-1 can record an playback audio files up to 24-bit/44.1 kHz [Better than CD Quality] and MP3's encoded at up to 320 kbps.

* R-1 is a direct WAVE/MP3 recorder. Internal file conversion is not possible.

The R-1 is equipped with two, high-grade omni-directional back electret type microphones built-in for quick and clean capture. These ultra-small, light-weighted microphones offer a flat frequency response and are durable against vibration and shock.

* I.A.R.C. (Isolated Adaptive Recording Circuit): The input circuitry of the R-1 provides a separate power supply between the Analog Limiter and AD converter. This eliminates DC interference and results in an overall better quality recording.
I.A.R.C. is the newly developed dedicated analog circuit optimized for recording on R-1. Electrolytic capacitors provide stable, reliable power to the analog circuits, eliminating DC interference. The R-1 offers an input gain volume control to manually adjust recording levels. An Analog Limiter is also provided to reduce sudden clipping or popping noises in your recordings. The side diagram shows the Limiter characteristics.

The R-1 can connect to the outside world via USB 2.0 for importing/exporting audio files via computer very quickly. For example, a 908MB 60 minute recording at 44.1kHz/24-bit takes only 3 minutes to transfer, only 1/20 of the time it would take to transfer the same recording from a MiniDisc or tape (cassette/DAT) recorder.

The R-1 contains premium 24-Bit internal effects providing emulation of different microphones with Roland's COSM technology, Noise Reducer, Hum Cut, 10-band EQ, Reverb, Center Cancel and more. It also includes a Metronome, Tuner, half-speed playback, and A-B repeat (set markers to playback just a section of an audio file) for musicians looking for a good practice companion.

The R-1 stores audio directly onto removable CompactFlash cards, up to 2GB in size. The R-1 allows you to choose among nine different compression options for your recording, ranging from 64 kbps MP3 compression to 24-bit linear WAV, hence the R-1 allows you to determine the best compromise between audio quality and storage space. The choice is yours. 64 MB CompactFlash card included.

The R-1 was designed to appeal to musicians and field recorders, thanks to long battery life and premium built-in microphones. Uses 2 AA (alkaline or NiMH) batteries. Up to 5.5 hours of operation.