On evaluating speakers?

Won't work. The microphone you use and how you place it is more important than the recorder. In the end all you'll really be doing is recording the speaker's interaction with the room.

It could be useful if you only used it in one room and varied the speakers (or other equipment).

Then why not just take a well recorded CD, DVD-A or SACD?

Pedrillo, I understand your points, but it still would be easier to take an SACD disc to the dealer. However, if you think it's worthwhile to spend $1,200 on the recorder and are willing to take the time to do your own recordings, then let us know how it turns out. On paper, the Korg is an amazing piece of machinery.