I have a modest collection of bat detectors, from all over the world. I've =
been recording bats, from my back windows (in Bronx, NY) since 2006. I make=
recordings of their ultrasounds, keep detailed notes, etc. When a new bat-=
related device, that is either a great performer (or unique) becomes availa=
ble I try to do my part to let other bat lovers know about it!
There hasn't been anything new in the world of bat detecting for a couple o=
f years...until now!
I'm excited to tell you about a new product, that has just become available=
from the folks at http://www.dodotronic.com/
In this case, It's for a new ultrasound microphone - The main purpose of wh=
ich, is to record bats!
You can see photos and info of the new unit, by visiting the link above. Si=
nce they've moved the new Ultramic to the front page of their site.
One of the reasons that I'm very excited about this device, is that until n=
ow, there's never been a low-cost version of professional ultrasonic microp=
hones - Such as the high-end (and very high dollar!) models offered by a fe=
w specialist suppliers in Europe. Way out of reach for the average bat enth=
usiast.
Well, I'm now in the process of doing more detailed measurements and compar=
isons on one of the first of prototypes. Preliminary tests of the Ultramic,=
and comparisons to my other bat detectors are very promising. I will be wr=
iting detailed reviews of the new Ultramic, to be published on the Durham B=
at Group Web site (http://www.durhambats.org.uk/) and at least one other Wi=
ldlife Sound publication.
Another example of one of my Bat Detector reviews can be seen here: http://=
www.durhambats.org.uk/reviews.htm#scanner
This UK-based site, also features reviews of all types of bat detectors, fr=
om children's units to those for adults and professionals.
While there, be sure to see the reviews of the currently available bat dete=
ctors on the market today.
Another great feature of the Ultramic, is that it plugs right into a laptop=
. Unlike the expensive professional units, which require the user to purcha=
se one or more additional hardware components. Since most folks have laptop=
s these days, just about anyone can have a professional style bat recording=
system that's simple (and cheap!).
The simple and elegant design conceals the high-tech circuitry inside.
Mine should be arriving tomorrow! I can hardly wait! I'll post a short repo=
rt/review here soon!
In addition, here is the link to the User Manual:
http://www.dodotronic.com/zoologia/files/Ultramic_User_Guide_ver_1_0.pdf
Happy bat detecting!
Al Milano
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