Source: MiniDisc Wiki contributors · September 3, 2026 snapshot · CC BY 4.0, except where otherwise credited.
Attribution and changes
Adapted from “Sony MZ-R30”. Links, layout and file names normalized; missing database fields restored; remote embeds replaced with links. Manufacturer manuals and separately credited photographs retain their original attribution.
| Name | MZ-R30 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Sony |
| Released | 1996/10 |
| Device type | portable |
| Recorder | Recorder |
| MDLP | No |
| NetMD | No |
| Hi-MD | No |
| Radio | No |
| Dimensions | 116 x 26 x 76 mm |
| Weight | 220g (317g w/ battery) |
| ATRAC ver | 4 |
| Battery | Not recorded LIP-12 |
| Battery notes | Not recorded |
| Sidecar (depr) | 2xAA |
| Voltage | 6 |
| Power cable | Center positive |
| Price (launch) | $450 |
| ¥48 000 | |
| - | |
| Inputs | 3.5mm line in (analog-only), 3.5mm line in (optical multi), 3.5mm microphone |
| Outputs | 3.5mm line out (analog-only), 3.5mm headphone |
| Control | Remote (Sony) |
Available in Silver and Blue. Replacement for the R3. More reliable unit that cost less. Has a few differences including:
- sampling rate converter
- track-search
- digital mono recording using both channels
- digital synchro-start and stop recording - automatically starts and pauses recording in conjunction with the operation of the playback device
Additional Features:
- Katakana, alphanumericals, and symbols can be entered
- Date function that automatically records the recording date and time
- Equipped with a "position pointer" that indicates the recording / playback position and remaining recording capacity on the disc
- Various performance modes of normal playback, 1 song / all song repeat, shuffle repeat
Stated battery life (from press release):
Lithium Ion: 5 hours during recording and about 8 hours during playback
Lithium Ion + 2x AA alkaline batteries: 8.5 hours during recording and approximately 15 hours during playback
Car mount kit for MZ-R30: "CPM-MZ6VK" - 11,000 yen
Kit contents: Mount plate (1), Adapter (1), Car battery cord (1), Car connecting pack (1), Mounting belt (1)
ATRAC Chip: CXD2652R
Optical Pickup: KMS-250A/J2N
MD Mechanism Type: MT-MZR30-124
Content adapted from: Sony Press Release Minidisc.org MZ-R30 harmony-central.com harmony-central.com (MiniDisc Wiki mirror) Additional information from: CES '97 MiniDisc News (minidisc.org)
