Hi-res audio recorder with simple transport controls. Bands and artists are increasingly being recorded for live CDs, DVDs, Internet releases and for general archive purposes, all are extremely valuable additional revenue streams for both the artist and service companies alike. Secondly, with limited production rehearsals now being the norm, mix engineers require live recordings so that a “virtual sound check” can be performed. This removes the need to directly involve the artist, and all the associated additional expense and time that a traditional sound check or rehearsal process incurs. The “virtual sound check” also allows the mix engineer the time to fine tune his mix and use the full potential that digital console automation offers.