Features: 20 bit, ATRAC-3.5, smart space, sampling rate converter, 6 second "time machine" function. Remote controller: RM-D2M. Available in gold or black.

Specs: Freq resp: 5-20kHz +/-0.3dB, S/N: > 105dB (digital rec/play), > 98dB (analog rec/play), Dynamic Range: > 98dB (digital), > 98dB (analog), THD < .004% (digital), < .004% (analog), Wow/flutter: less than 0.001% W-Peak. Feb. '96 Stereo Review buying guide manual: The MDS-JAES MD recorder has a S/N of 103 dB. The JA3ES a 20-bit digital playback filter with dither, ... and 20 bit output.

Links: Electronics Australia review of the MDS-JA3ES. MJ magazine interview with the JA3ES designers. Sony Page info, Sony Japan Page (nice pictures!). Sony Canada page.

Reviews:

User Manual: MDS-JA3ES

Service Manuals: MDS-JA3ES, supplement 1, supplement 2