The Olympus DS-30 looks promising as an audio recorder for casual
field use. The user I have in mind is a birder who wants to capture a
bird call for later identification, or perhaps record some field notes. =
Features that make the DS-30 an attractive choice include:
recording:
-- records in WMA audio format to internal flash memory
-- captures 4 hours of tracks in highest quality mode
-- wide frequency response in highest quality mode
.....Olympus claims 50 hz - 19,000 hz
-- low, medium, high mic sensitivity switch
-- low cut filter helps minimize unwanted noise in recordings
-- includes removable stereo mic designed to sit on top of the recorder
-- 3.5mm jack allows you to plug in your own stereo mic
playback
-- 250 mW speaker built in, or use headphones
-- can attach external speaker if louder playback required
-- "loop" mode to simplify repeat playback of a track
general features
-- date and time stamp on files helps organize tracks
-- transfer tracks to PC or Mac via USB
-- backlighting of LCD display helps in dim light
-- optional RS29 wired remote control available, $25
-- powered by 2 AAA batteries (standard or rechargable)
.....batteries last about 30 hours
-- small and lightweight
.....1.5 x 4.4 x 0.6 inches, 2.8 oz including batteries
.....3.8 x 11.1 x 1.6 cm, 80g
The DS-30, including stereo mic, costs about $120 from online
retailers. Read about the DS-30 here:
http://www.olympusamerica.com/cpg_section/product.asp?product=3D1276
Other models with more memory are available from Olympus. DS-40 holds
8 hours, DS-50 holds 16 hours of WMA and MP3 tracks.
Obviously the DS-30 is not the answer if you want to capture nature
sounds for critical listening, or if you need equipment that works in
challenging conditions. So don't put your Sound Devices and
Sennheiser gear on eBay.
However, the DS-30 seems ideal as a cost effective "nature sounds
notepad" for casual audio recording.
--oryoki
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