Hello,
I think MDs can be pretty tough - friend has the first 1GB version from
IBM, purchased when it came out, and it still works after two DSLRs in
PJ environment. I think most HDDs have heads that automatically park in
emergency
position when there is power interruption, and once that happened to
him. Thanks to this list we got a quick help, and the drive is still
working flawlessly.
With todays' DSLRs, 4GB-6GB cards are minimum for RAW files from e.g. D2X
or 1DSII, and the Pentax's upcoming 645D as well. Last time I checked,
the price difference in these sizes was more like 300$ MD compared to
600-900$ for the CF. And the drives are evolving similarly fast as
solid stage.
So in my opinion, they are a valid option.
Good light!
fra