After a long stint as one of the most popular hard disk recorders for small home studio use, the BOSS BR-900CD is getting a long deserved makeover. The BOSS BR-900CD Version 2 will contain all of the features you have grown to love from the original and some exciting expansions including new COSM amp models, a new drum-editing software application and now over eight hours of recording time with 1GB of Compact Flash power.

Anyone accustomed to using the easily operable BR-864 will get a kick out of the new BR-900CD, which doubles the fader count from four to eight, throws a CD-RW drive on board, and adds Pitch Correction to its list of abilities.

Version 2 of the BR-900CD also works with up to a 1GB Compcat Flash card, which allows up to 500 minutes of recording time. There's no need to fret about finding one, either. That's another bonus that's built in.

For guitarists, this tool also brings BOSS quality guitar effects to your multitrack setup. The same COSM guitar amp models found in the BOSS GT-Pro pedals are built into the new BR-900CDs. Miking your cab may sound incredible, but Starbucks is a shining example that this is a world based on convenience.

As a guitarist, perhaps my favorite new feature is the new downloadable Rhythm Editor. Expanding on the built-in drum machine of the original BR900-CD, Version 2's comes with a graphical software that makes pattern creation and arrangements a more visual experience.

Finally, let's not forget about the built-in USB connection -- a feature that might not seem exciting in today's computer connected society unless it wasn't there. That's one less thing to complain about in today's impatient era. And just like Bio-Dome, it goes both ways.