Reply To: Record less than 18 channels?

[timhum]

Although it is a waste of disc space when recording, the unused channels can be disposed of when importing into your computer for mixing down. Even using the QU for remixing, the same memory stick can be used, then used again once the project is over. Memory is relatively cheap.
If you archive all your multi tracks, I agree, it is a waste of memory and a firmware update to record fewer tracks would be useful.
It occurs to me that uprating the firmware a couple of times a year is a very good way to increase the usefulness of a product and keep it at the cutting edge using users suggestions without having to design a new product every few years from the ground up.
There are workarounds for just about any scenario but an elegant software solution is much more attractive. Until the CPU is gasping for breath and reliability is a problem.