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Ha… I was typing the title of this show, just about to add the word “Digital” in front of recorders, but then realized the year is 2008 (soon to be ’09 as we record). The word digital will likely be implied by readers and listeners. That isn’t to say that alternate analog, digital tape and optical formats aren’t valid or worthy. However, I can’t imagine starting fresh and not enjoying the ease and convenience of flash media for many in-the-field audio tasks.
Below, I note a few standout features and my own experience with these miniature marvels. They are all SD devices and all (except the Tascam) utilize AA batteries. They all offer surprisingly high-quality sound capture from small electret microphones.
Make no mistake; this list is based on my own personal likes/dislikes and opinions. Although a few models are absent, it doesn’t mean they aren’t worthy …just that I haven’t tried them myself.
Here are the recorders that have made their way through Studio1A:
The Marantz Professional PMD-620 Recorder.
I love Marantz Professional gear, having used their products for decades. The PMD-620 is a great recorder with stand-out features like a ‘confidence’ speaker to ensure you did actually record that last interview. The high-contrast (and energy efficient) organic LED display helps give the PMD-620 that business-like Marantz Professional look. Marantz estimates 5 hours of usage from 2 perky AA batteries.
Downside: Professional comes at a slightly higher cost. The higher cost could also warrant a larger (512MB is included) SD card as well, but memory is very inexpensive these days.
Street Price at Publish Time: $399.00
The Olympus LS-10 Recorder.
I was very pleasantly surprised with the LS-10. From the claimed 12 hour battery life (I didn’t record that long), to the high 96/24 capture quality, WMA encode/decode, generous 2GB storage and excellent sounding stereo ‘confidence’ speakers, this recorder has a lot going for it.
Downside: It’s tough to find fault with the LS-10. It is priced higher than some, but you get a lot of recorder for the extra price.
Street Price at Publish Time: $399.00
The Zoom H-4 Recorder with XLR Connectors.
The H-4 was one of the first truly hand held recorders I used. It offers XLR connectors (with 48 volts phantom power), very nice internal X-Y pickup electret mics, 96/24 resolution and a great price. The H-4 has never let me down and is a great bargain.
Downside: The internal mics need a windsock (which is included). The fit and finish is just ok, but very functional.
Street Price at Publish Time: $269.99
The Tascam DR-1 Recorder with High Capacity Lithium-Ion Battery.
Being a Tascam product, I just had to try the DR-1. Stand outs include the lithium-ion battery that is potent and charges quick. The DR-1 employs a unique rotating mic configuration, great for desktop or handheld recording. As I expected, the DR-1 looks and feels pro all the way and the price is reasonable.
Downside: AC charger not included, but it did charge quickly using the included USB cable. The rotating mic had me wishing I could ‘bend’ them for adjustable imaging.
Street Price at Publish Time: $299.00
The 4 Microphone Zoom H-2 recorder.
The H-2 is simply the recorder I “reach for” most when needing to capture sound. For the street price (currently $179.99), you get a lot of recorder. The H-2 rarely needs a windscreen and the versatility of the 4 mics (1 pair has a 90 degree pattern – the other 120 degrees) is ingenious. The H-2, besides being the least expensive in its class, is also one of the most compact.
Downside: The membrane ‘buttons’ don’t always give that tactile feel I like. The small display allows you to easily miss the fact you are in pause instead of record, although the very small tally lights do help.
Street Price at Publish Time: $179.99
Best,
MarkJensen and Laura
