It’s amazing how technology has enabled people to develop very innovative devices such as digital pen recorders. They are excellent devices which can save your handwriting as you use the product and can even record audio and create them into audio files. The Livescribe 2 GB Pulse Smartpen is one of the excellent models of these pens that you have to know about, and this review will cover everything you need to know.

Design

In appearance, it’s a very sleek and beautiful pen with silver anodized aluminum housing and a 96×18 OLED display. It has the dimensions of 6.1’’ x 0.55’’ x 0.63’’ and a weight of 36 grams or 1.3 ounces. It’s just like an ordinary pen if you look at it at a glance, but when you scrutinize it, it has a lot of excellent features. It has a titanium color with a silver band and black accents which make it look very nice and elegant even in its simplicity. The device records everything you take note of using the exclusive notebook included in its package. It also records audio and plays it back on the speaker.

Recording Features

It’s designed to be a camera, audio recorder, and writing recorder all in one. It has an embedded microphone for mono recording, and an embedded speaker for easier playback of recorded audio. The microphone is located at the edge of the display, and it makes recording very easy because it’s already built in so you no longer have to use an external microphone. The embedded speaker has slots where the sound is emitted. It can also access a 3D recording headset which can produce binaural or stereo recordings and the 2.5mm audio jack located at the bottom end of the pen is where you connect the headset. The 3D headset is useful for distant recording so your recording ability is not entirely limited to the nearby space.

The device has an infrared camera which can save up to 70 images per second, saving all your writings efficiently and not missing a letter. The infrared camera is designed to take photos of everything that you write down and when you upload the images on the PC, you will be able to read everything you have written exactly how you wrote it.

The device operates on a 300 mAH rechargeable lithium battery which is non-removable. It also has a USB mobile charging cradle which allows you to connect the pen directly to the PC and access the files saved in the pen while charging it simultaneously.

Other Features

The 2 GB pen can save a lot of data such as audio recordings and notes that you took in the special Livescribe notebook. It has a Quick Record function that allows a quick access audio recording application that lets you easily record without navigating too much. It also has a scientific calculator and a quick calculator which can be launched and used on any dot paper. It also features time, date, storage, battery and other essential settings in making the use of the pen more efficient. The pen has a 5–way navigation and menu system which you can utilize using a pre–printed or drawn plus sign. It even has demo applications which feature a translator demo and paper piano. Other additional software is available for sale at livescribe.com.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for something to help you make taking notes during lectures easier and more optimal, digital pen recorders are the best tools for you. And with the features of the Livescribe 2 GB Pulse Smartpen, you can definitely have all the essential features that you need and you can access them all with a simple scribble.

If you’re looking for a handheld digital recorder, then you should take a closer look at the Olympus DS-2400 Dictation Recorder. It has a lot of excellent features which can be very beneficial for all your recording needs. This review will help enlighten you regarding the features that this product has to offer.

Design

The device is especially designed for compactness and portability. It has the dimensions of 4.47 x 1.97 x 0.67 and a weight of 3.9 ounces. Although it may be heavier than most Olympus recorders, it is still handy enough to be carried in your pocket, purse, bag, and even by your hand. This device is really designed to be a digital handheld recorder. It’s also very simple and has a sleek silver body with all silver buttons.

All the buttons of the device have been designed to make navigation and operation of the device much more optimal. The unit operates on two Triple-A batteries which can either be rechargeable or alkaline. Depending on the mode of use, there are different maximum battery life lengths of the device, but it can be used the longest on SP recording mode, with a battery life of as long as 32 hours.

Display

The LCD display of this unit is 1.7 inches long, which is comparably bigger than most Olympus recorders. It has an orange backlight which enables the user to see the text and graphics on the display even under various lighting conditions. The dot pixel display is also very clear which makes it easier for user to read the information, making navigation and operation of the device much optimal.

Audio and Recording Features

Although the device has no internal memory, it does have a 2 GB memory card included in the package. Using the memory card, you can save your audio recordings and easily play them and transfer them in a computer. There are two recording modes of the device which have different maximum recording length. The QP mode can record up to 77 hours and 40 minutes of audio, while the SP mode can store up to 159 hours and 5 minutes of recording. The device also enables you to easier organize your files. There are five folders where you can save and separate your audio recordings, and each folder can carry up to 200 files.

The device has a built-in speaker and microphone which makes it easier for you to record and playback your files anytime you want. The speaker is 23mm and has a maximum output of 250 mW, a very high number for such a small device. It also has a built-in microphone and earphone jack which enables you to listen privately and record audio more clearly and precisely.

Probably the biggest flaw of this model is that it saves files in the new DS2 format which can only be read and accessed using the software which can be installed from the CD that is included in the package of the unit. This is a very big inconvenience for many users especially because it takes a lot of time and energy to install, convert, and transfer files that aren’t readable by the computer. Nonetheless, if you have successfully installed the software, then you will not have any other problems about the files in the future. Also, although it is a relatively new file format, Olympus used DS2 format because it can increase the quality of your audio recordings for a better and more audible playback.

Other Features

Apart from the mentioned features, this model has more to offer. It has a voice activated variable control which you can turn on and off depending on your preference. There are new easy-to-use buttons, the Erase button which erases a file in one press, and the New button which starts a new recording in a single touch. There are two settings which you can set for better reception of audio, the Conference and the Dictate settings. There are also index marks which you can use to easier scan through the audio file and find a certain point during the recording that you need to play.

Conclusion

As an Olympus digital handheld recorder, this device has a good set of features to offer. The Olympus DS-2400 Dictation Recorder is also designed for professional use so you won’t have any problems regarding the audio quality of this model. I am very confident to recommend this model to individuals out there who are in search of an excellent digital recorder. This will definitely work well for your personal, professional, and recreational recording needs.

There are a lot of recorders on the market and one of the models that many people are looking for is a digital music recorder which not only record but also plays music. This adds to the functionality of the device and entertainment for the user. The Olympus WS-321M Digital Voice Recorder is one of the most remarkable music recorders that you can find, and the following is a review of the device.

Design

This device is designed to be completely compact, easy to use, and handy. It has the dimensions of 3.7″ x 1.5″ x 0.4″ and a weight of 1.7 ounces. It’s perfectly portable and you can keep it in your front pocket, pants pocket, purse, or bag with ease. It’s also very easy to carry around even by hand. The white body with silver accents and buttons is very clean in appearance, but it can show more damage, stains, and weathering as compared to other darker colored models. However, it can be very appealing and a lot of people like white objects as their personal belongings.

The buttons of the device are minimal – only a few at the front and some at the sides – but each one of them are functional and have an important purpose for easier navigation and operation of the device. The unit is designed to operate solely on a single Triple-A battery which can either be alkaline or rechargeable. Depending on the recording mode, the device can have different lengths of battery life using an alkaline battery.

Display

The LCD display is small but very informative as it shows all the important menus and information that you need to optimally manipulate and navigate the device. It also has a dot matrix display and a backlight which makes viewing the information even under various lighting conditions relatively easy.

Audio and Recording Features

This digital music recorder has a built-in memory of 1 GB and can only save audio files in WMA format. This is an issue for some users who prefer MP3 file formats, but it can always be manually converted using different software. There are six record modes which dictate how long your maximum recording can be based on the memory capacity of the device. The Stereo XQ mode can save up to approximately 17 hours and 40 minutes of recording. The Stereo HQ mode can record up to approximately 35 hours and 25 minutes of audio. The Stereo SP mode can store up to approximately 70 hours and 55 minutes of audio, as well as the HQ mode. The SP mode can save approximately 139 hours and 30 minutes of audio recording. And the LP mode can save approximately 277 hours 35 minutes of recording.

The built in 18mm diameter round dynamic speaker produces a total audio output of 70 mW and the device also has a built-in stereo microphone. But it also has an earphone and microphone jack for additional function and accessibility.

Other Features

Used as a music player, the total internal memory can save up to 250 songs. The device has 5 folders wherein you can save your files, each able to store up to 200 messages. During recording, the LED turns red, and while playback, the LED turns green. The LED also turns green when the device is accessed to a PC using a USB cable. This also allows easier and faster transfer of files. The audio files of the device are completely accessible with Windows Media Player since they are WMA file formats.

Conclusion

This digital music recorder is very functional and it has a lot of features which can be very beneficial to a user. I highly recommend the Olympus WS-321M Digital Voice Recorder for anyone who wants to find an excellent voice recorder that can play great music and perform its basic recording responsibilities in the best and highest quality.

Design

This is a very handy device but it has quite a complicated appearance. The dimensions of the device are 4’’ x 1.6’’ x 0.8’’ and the item weighs 16 ounces, a bit heavier than most other digital recorders of other brands or models. The appearance of the device is similar to a bar and it has very few buttons which are easy to navigate and operate. The speaker is clearly visible under the buttons and LCD display. It’s a very easy-to-use device and there’s no problem in operating it.

The buttons in the front and sides are all complete for the best navigation of the device. It is designed to operate using two Triple-A batteries. You have the choice of using alkaline or rechargeable batteries, whichever fits your preferences.

Display

The backlit LCD display is very easy to read even under various lighting conditions. The dot matrix text and graphics on the display are clear and completely visible, and although the display is small, it has very clear graphics that allows you to navigate and operate the device very easily.

Audio and Recording Features

This RCA digital voice recorder has a maximum memory capacity of 1024 MB or more or less 1 gigabyte. It saves audio recordings in MP3 file format which makes it easier for the user to access the files in the device. The maximum audio recording capacity of the device can reach up to 276 hours. The device also has an automatic voice activation recording and editing functions which enables you to easier manipulate your recorder and audio files without having to move a finger.

Other Features

The device has a variable speed playback which allows you to play the files slower or faster for better manipulation or analysis of the audio recordings. The device also has an intro scan and date and time stamp so you can better organize your audio files for easier accessibility and optimal file arrangement. Including in the package of the product are 2 Triple-A batteries, a USB with cable, a clip-on microphone for the best audio input quality, and a case to make traveling with the recorder easier.

Conclusion

Although a lot of other models are better, this RCA digital voice recorder is very useful for those who want a simple but very functional recording device. The RCA RP5140 Digital Voice Recorder has several features which you can use for simple and personal recording activities like saving lectures, recording music and other artistic forms of audio, and better taking note of various activities like meetings and interviews. I have to recommend this device for people who are looking for a simple but useful recording gadget which can be easily accessible on a computer and can produce excellent recorded audio files.

There are a lot of voice recorders on the market, but finding a great voice activated digital recorder might be quite difficult to do. But with the Olympus WS-331M Digital Voice Recorder, you might find that it isn’t much of a challenge. Here is a complete review of the product.

Design

This model is simple enough but very easy to use and handle. The black-bodied recorder accented with silver buttons and silver edges is very sleek in appearance and free from the signs of weathering and constant abuse. It is also very compact and handy with the dimensions of 3.7″ x 1.5″ x 0.4″ and you can easily fit it in your pocket, purse, or bag. You can also hold it without effort because it has a very light weight of 1.7 ounces. It’s an absolutely compact and handy voice activated digital recorder.

The buttons are minimal on the front, and other buttons are on the side. All the buttons are very easy to use and very simple to operate. The device is designed to operate on a single Triple-A battery alone which can either be alkaline or rechargeable. Using alkaline, you can operate the device up to 21 hours.

Display

The LCD display is small but very functional. It has a LED backlight which allows you to see the information on the display easily even in various lighting conditions. It also displays the important data that you need in order to easily navigate through the device.

Audio and Recording Features

This model has a built-in memory of 2 GB. It can only save audio recordings in WMA file format but this is a minor issue as most PC users operate on Windows. Varying on the modes of recording, there are different maximum lengths of recordings that you can save on the device. The Stereo XQ Mode can save up to 35 hours and 30 minutes of audio recording. The Stereo HQ Mode can record up to 71 hours of audio. The Stereo SP Mode can record up to 142hours and 5 minutes of audio. The HQ Mode can store up to 142 hours and 5 minutes of audio recording. The SP Mode can save up to 279 hours and 35 minutes. And the LP Mode can store up to 555 hours and 45 minutes of recording.

The device has a built-in round dynamic speaker with a diameter of 18mm and has a maximum output of 70 mW. It also has a built-in microphone but the device also has an audio in and out jack that allows you to listen privately using a headphone and better create audio recordings using a microphone.

Other Features

The device has a voice activation feature which allows you to start recording even without lifting a finger. The device is also USB connectible for easier accessibility and transfer of your recorded files. You can even play your audio files 50% slower or faster for better listening or faster scanning through the recording.

Conclusion

As a voice activated digital recorder, the Olympus WS-331M Digital Voice Recorder is very functional and extremely easy to use. I personally recommend the model to anyone who’s in search of a great voice recorder that can definitely provide you with all your recording needs.

A voice digital recorder has a lot of functions, and if you’re someone who’s fonder of listening than writing or watching, this is one tool which you can use to make your tasks easier. Record lectures, speeches, interviews, and a lot of other important audio data using these devices. But because what you’re recording is important, you should make sure that you get a quality recorder that will definitely enable you to completely review what you’ve recorded. The Olympus WS-700M Digital Voice Recorder is one model which you might want to try out and it has a lot of features which you may find beneficial in your sound recording activities.

Design

This device is very simple and easy to use, and it’s also designed to be compact and lightweight for optimal use. It has the dimensions of 3.9’’ x 1.6’’ x 0.4’’ and a weight of 1.8 ounces, completely handy and portable for anywhere use. You can keep it in your front shirt pocket, purse, bag, pocket, or even just simply hold it since it isn’t in any way heavy.

The device has a nice sporty look which comes in three colors – red, blue, and gray. The blue one is perfect for individuals who want to make a masculine statement in his personal equipment. It’s also very unique because most devices like these have plain colors and are usually dull. The device is designed to operate only on a single Triple-A battery which can be either alkaline or rechargeable. On alkaline batteries, the device can run as long as 25 hours on LP recording mode.

Display

The display of the device is very simple – a backlit LCD with dot matrix characters. But it’s very easy to read even in various lighting conditions because of the backlight and the dot matrix is clear enough to be visible despite the small size of the screen. This makes navigating and operating the device much easier.

Audio and Recording Features

This voice digital recorder is designed for excellent audio recording performance. It can record and save audio files in PCM, MP3, and WMA file formats so you have several options which can provide your personal preferences. The 4 GB internal flash memory and the micro SD memory card slot gives you the option of maximizing your recorder’s functions. You have the choice to record as short as a maximum of 6 hours with the highest quality PCM recording mode, or record as long as a maximum of 1058 hours using the WMA LP recording mode. It’s also easy to access and organize your files and recordings because you can separate and segregate them in five folders, each able to contain up to 200 files.
The device has a built-in microphone and speaker. The speaker is a dynamic round device with a diameter of 18mm. It can produce a maximum output of 80 mW. The stereo microphone is an excellent audio input device which can clearly record various types of sound. There are also audio in and out jacks which you can use for private listening using a headphone or clearer audio input using an external microphone.

Other Features

This device has the scene select function which automatically adjusts the settings of the audio input depending on the location which you will indicate for that particular recording moment. If you’re recording in a conference room, the device will adjust its settings to optimize the acquisition of sound to be recorded, and the same goes if you’re in a large assembly hall. It also has a voice activation function which allows you to start recording with a simple voice command anytime you desire. No need to access the device by hand. The multiple language settings make it easier for a French, Spanish, or Portuguese to navigate and operate the device. This model is a really very functional and fully-equipped voice recorder.

Conclusion

Looking for a good voice digital recorder can be very difficult, but if you know where to look and what model to look for, the task can be much easier. I highly recommend the Olympus WS-700M Digital Voice Recorder.

If you haven’t heard about Olympus digital voice recorders, then you might want to know about them now, especially if you’re in urgent need of a good voice recording device. The Olympus Digital Voice Recorder DM-520 is one of the remarkable models from the brand, and here is a review to enlighten you about the features that this model has to offer.

Design

This model has a very simple but aesthetically pleasant design. It has a black body with silver buttons. Its dimensions are 4.33’’ x 1.53’’ x 0.63’’, very compact and handy, you can keep it in any purse, pocket, or bag without worry. It’s also very lightweight weighing a mere 3 ounces which makes it nothing close to a burden.

The buttons are easy enough to use and each of them have labels to indicate exactly what they are used for. The device is designed to operate either on two Triple-A NiMH rechargeable batteries or an external AC power supply. The batteries can last as long as 51 hours of recording use. You won’t have any problems with replacing batteries too quickly or encountering dead batteries in the middle of different recording activities.

Display

The LCD display is approximately 1 square inch and is very easy to read with the backlight and clear dot matrix output. The display is easy to use despite different lighting conditions and you won’t have to worry about reading the text on the screen as well as navigating through the device.

Audio and Other Recording Features

Like other Olympus digital voice recorders, this model has a lot of excellent features. It has a built-in 4 GB flash memory and it also has a memory card slot that enables the device to add memory of up to 16 GB, totaling 20 GB if the device is completely maximized. It can also save audio recording files in MP3, WMA, and WAV or PCM file formats, a problem which many Olympus recorder users experienced since most of the older models are only able to save in WMA file formats. There are different modes of recording which you can use to produce various quality levels of audio files. The highest one, the 48 kHz 16 bit WAV file format, can record up to a maximum of 5 hours and 45 minutes on a 4 GB memory capacity. On the other hand, the lowest quality, LP WMA can save up to 1076 hours in a 4 GB memory space. You can also organize your files in five different folders with each able to carry up to 999 files. If you have music files or soundtracks, you can save them in a single folder up to 999 files, and podcasts can also be saved in a single folder with the same maximum number.
The 23mm round dynamic speaker can produce audio output of up to 320 mW, very excellent for a small device. It has a built-in ultra high quality stereo microphone for excellent audio input but it also has both an audio in and audio out jack for an optional microphone and headphones for personal and more optimal utilization of the device.

Other Features

The device is very easy to synchronize with a PC through a USB cable. This makes file transfer and audio editing not only very easy but also very quick to do. The device also offers a variable control voice actuator which enables or disables voice command according to your preferences. The voice guidance is a system which aids you in your navigation and operation throughout the entire device for better and easier use.

Conclusion

This model really has a lot to offer and it’s no doubt a wonderful device. The Olympus Digital Voice Recorder DM-520 is very functional and no one would find it unsatisfactory. I highly recommend this product if you really want to optimize your voice recording activities. There are a lot of Olympus digital voice recorders, but this one is exceptional.

Finding the best digital voice recorder is one task that you shouldn’t take lightly, especially if you use the device for important and professional purposes. Keeping the minutes of the meeting, recording an interview, and getting a copy of a personality’s speech are some of the duties that you might want to use your voice recorder for. One good model that you might want to take a second look at is the Olympus DS-40 Digital Voice Recorder because it has a lot of features to offer. To learn more about it, here is an in-depth review of the model.

Design

This model is a very compact and handy one. It has the dimensions of 4.4” x 1.5” x 0.6” and a weight of 2.8 ounces, and is absolutely easy to handle. You can keep it in your pocket, in a purse, in a bag, or just hold on to it and it wouldn’t be a bother because it’s really very light. It also has a simple but nice appearance and it closely resembles a remote control. Its body is sleek with a silver case and silver buttons. Although newer models have better buttons, this model also has a good set of controls which are easy enough to use even by a first-timer.

The model is designed to operate by either batteries or an AC power supply. The batteries needed for this device are two triple-A ones, which can be rechargeable or alkaline, depending on your preferences. Using alkaline batteries on this model can last you up to 32 hours of use which longer than most newer models, indicating that this is a better power saver than others.

Display

The LCD display has the dimensions of 26mm x 25mm, or approximately one cubic inch. Although it is small, the display has a very clear resolution and the text can be read easily through the dot matrix. The LED also changes color when you’re using the recorder: it turns red when you’re recording and it turns white when you’re on playback. The LCD display pretty much shows all vital information that you need to be able to operate or navigate the device properly.

Audio and Recording Features

This model is as close to being the best digital voice recorder as it can ever be with its excellent features. Because it’s an older model, it has only a small internal memory of 512 MB, but you can record a lot in that space. It has five different modes of recording which vary in quality, and the highest one has the shortest recording capacity and the lowest one vice versa. The ST XQ mode has the capacity to record up to 8 hours and 40 minutes of audio recordings; the ST HQ mode can save up to 17 hours and 20 minutes of recordings; the HQ mode can store up to 34 hours and 45 minutes of audio recordings; the SP mode can save up to 68 hours and 30 minutes of audio recordings; and the LP mode can record up to 136 hours and 15 minutes of audio. Although the LP mode is the lowest in recording quality, it does not mean that the mode has a bad audio sound. In fact, it still has that great professional recording quality which can compete with other recording modes, and upholds the quality and reputation of Olympus.

It has a 23mm diameter dynamic speaker with a maximum output of 250 mW, remarkable for such a small device. It also has a microphone and headphone jack for private listening and better audio input, but it has a built-in monoaural microphone and speaker so you can use it in moments of urgent need.

Other Features

The device only stores files in the WMA format but it is very easy to access in a PC using a USB cable. Also, most computers have Windows Media Player where you can play the files. You can also save and organize your recordings in the device in five separate folders, each able to carry 200 files. It also has a built in variable control voice actuator function which enables you to use voice command when you want to and shut it off when you don’t want to. It also has the timer recording and alarm features which enable automatic recording and playing at a set time. The device also has an index mark and temp mark features that allow you to quickly find desired locations throughout the recording. You can even play the audio files in slow or fast paces which enable you to either listen very closely to the recording or scan through the recording quickly.

Conclusion

The Olympus DS-40 Digital Voice Recorder has many features and it’s very simple but functional. It might well be the best digital voice recorder if you look at it closely. I, for one, highly recommend this product because it has many features that I find not only functional but also very remarkable and unique. So if you’re looking for an excellent voice recorder, this model is a great one.

Olympus voice recorders are known for their good quality, durability, and excellent features which make audio recording optimal and high-class. One of the models which is quite commendable for its good performance is the Olympus WS-400S Digital Recorder. It’s a very useful device which has a lot of features to offer. The following is a review of the device.

Design

It’s very simple and practical for everyday use because of its compact size. The device is very handy and really compact with the dimensions of 3.7″ x 1.5″ x 0.4″ and a weight of 1.6 ounces. It’s also a great-looking model with a white body and silver buttons. However, a lot more stains and scratches can show on a white-colored item like this, compared to other models which have darker colors.

The buttons of this device are easy enough to be used even by first-timers, and each one of them has a text label which indicates exactly what the button is used for which makes navigation a lot easier. It operates on one Triple-A battery and you have the choice of using either an alkaline or rechargeable one. The alkaline battery can last up to 21 hours on LP mode recording. Although it does not have an external power source, changing the batteries would not be needed constantly since the span of an alkaline battery is long enough for several days of use.

Display

The size of the display is 1.23 inches, big enough to completely display all vital information needed for easier navigation and operation of the device. The backlit LCD display has very clear pixel text that can be read easily under various lighting conditions which makes it easier for any user to be able to access whatever functions or features that he needs on the device.

Audio and Recording Features

The sound file that the device supports is solely WMA so if you’re looking for a device which can save files under MP3 or WAV formats, you might not want to get this one. However, this makes it easier for users to play the recorded files on the PC since most computers read WMA files. The unit has 1 GB internal memory which lets you store a lot of files of different lengths. The maximum length of recordings that you can save on the device depends on the type of sound quality that you will use for recording. There are six different modes for recording form the highest to the lowest quality: The Stereo XQ Mode can record up to 17 hours and 20 minutes of audio recordings, the Stereo HQ Mode can save up to 34 hours and 45 minutes of recordings, the Stereo SP Mode can store up to 69 hours and 35 minutes of recorded audio, the HQ Mode can save up to 69 hours and 35 minutes of recording, the SP Mode can store up to 137 hours of recordings, and the LP Mode can record audio files up to 272 hours and 25 minutes.

It’s very easy to access and organize your recordings in this device. There are five folders which you can store in and each one of them has the capacity of 200 files. The built-in 16mm dynamic speaker produces a maximum output of 70 mW. The device has an earphone and microphone jack for private listening and better recording, but it also has a built-in stereo microphone which makes recording easier for urgent instances.

Other Features

Like most Olympus voice recorders, the device is USB connectible to any PC so it’s very easy to save and edit files. The voice activation feature allows you to activate recordings with a simple voice command – no need to access the device by hand. It also has write protection to prevent accidental deletions or changes in your files so you’re sure that everything in the device is secure and completely high-quality.

Conclusion

Many people are in search of Olympus voice recorders, and if you’re one of them, the Olympus WS-400S Digital Recorder is an excellent device. And for its very affordable price, this model is definitely a safe buy.

Having a recorder is a must for many professionals out there who need their lectures, interviews, meetings, and various activities recorded for better use and access of vital information. Since Olympus is well known for its excellent devices, many people look for an Olympus recorder whenever they want to purchase a new one. One fine example that can really provide the user excellent functions and benefits is the Olympus DM-420 Digital Voice Recorder. This review will help you better understand the features that the model can offer you which will then allow you to decide whether this is the model that you really want.

Design

When it comes to voice recorders, most people often look for the portability and compactness of the device. This is because voice recorders need to be handy and easily accessible anytime for any urgent need. This is a perfect model for that purpose because its compact dimensions of 4.33’’ x 1.53’’ x 0.63’’ make it an excellent model that you can definitely keep in your pocket or purse. You can even just hold it in your hand and it won’t even seem as a burden, having a weight of 3 ounces. It’s really small and very handy, perfect for the lecturer on the go.

The appearance of the device is quite simple and the buttons are very easy to use. It has a silver body with silver buttons and each of them is labeled for the exact function that they play. This makes navigating through the device much easier. The device is designed to operate on two AAA NiMH rechargeable batteries or you can also use an AC power supply for unlimited power. Using the rechargeable batteries, you get approximately 51 hours of recordings or other uses of the unit.

Display

The LCD display is more or less an inch in height and width, and it displays all the important data and information that you need to be able to navigate through the device much faster. You can easily read the text on the backlit LCD even under various lighting conditions, and the battery level indicator shows you if it’s almost time to charge.

Audio and Recording Features

As an Olympus recorder, this model really has a lot to offer. Firstly, unlike most Olympus recorders, this model no longer needs additional software to be able to read MP3 files. It can automatically save recordings in both MP3 and WMA file formats. It has a built-in 2 GB memory capacity but it also has an expandable memory slot which can accommodate up to 16 GB of additional memory. This completely extends the capacity of the device to save recordings up to an unidentifiable length. If the device is used without a memory card though, it can still save a lot of recordings. There are different recording modes which are the indicators of the sound quality of the recording, and each one varies in maximum length. For the highest quality of recording in the 44.1 kHz 320 kbps MP3 format, it can save up to 13 hours and 45 minutes of audio recordings. On the other hand, for the lowest quality of recording in the LP 8 kHz 8 kbps WMA format, it can save up to 533 hours of recordings. It makes the device as flexible as can be for various recording purposes.

The device sports a 23mm round dynamic speaker with a maximum output of 320 mW, very good for a very small device. You can also easily organize your audio recordings by separating them in 5 voice recording folders, each able to contain 999 files. There’s also 1 music folder and 1 podcast folder both with a capacity of 999 files. The device is also connectible to a PC by a USB cable which makes saving files and editing them much easier as compare to other models.

Other Features

The super high quality stereo recording ensures that you only get the highest quality of recordings you can with the environment you’re in during recording sessions. It also has an ultra high quality zoom microphone which feeds in recordings in optimal quality. There’s also a variable control voice actuator which enables hands-free functioning for the device. You also get to play podcasts and MP3 tracks on this unit during periods that you’re not using the recorder for work.

Conclusion

Having an Olympus recorder is very favorable for a person who needs a recorder for professional, personal, or recreational purposes, and the Olympus DM-420 Digital Voice Recorder is one model that I would highly recommend to anyone who’s in search of such a device. Not only does it have excellent features which provide great benefits to any user, it’s also very durable. The model is well worth its price if you put all its great features together.