The R500 will allow you to record in mdlp format. While some have been concerned about how good the recording is, I have found it to be as good as the original, in my opinion.

Probably the biggest thing I like about this unit is how long the batteries last. The manual states that in play mode a single battery will last about 48 hours. I have yet to find a radio, cassette player, or cd player that will match that. Battery length is only about 7 hours in record mode.

If I could give one bad mark against it, I would point out the controlls. I personally find that the menu system is a bit difficult to understand - until you get use to it. I became painfully aware of this after recording about 3 hours of music, and then messing it up and deleting the entire disk. Needless to say I was not happy.

I have not tried titling any of the tracks yet, but I would imagine that it would at least be as difficult as it is on other systems. (unless you have keyboard capabilities). This is not a problem for me, though.

I also like that it doesn't rely on a remote. Personally I like that all the controls are on the unit. I would imagine that this is a personal preference thing.

I purchased this at Best Buy for 174.00 + tax + extended warranty. Total cost was approx. 230.00. While I have only has this unit for about a week, I am very pleased with it.