Digtal Recording on a budget

I read an interesting article in "Vintage Guitar Magazine" last month (Oct 08 I think) which discussed recording with a budget in mind.
The equipment list included: microphone, headphones, preamp, digital recording software, and mention of pocket recorders.

My notes show software = Audacity v 1.2 for Macintosh, Protools and Krystal for the PC.
Headphones = Grado SR-60, SR-80
Preamp = Belkin Tunestudio ( which I think is a device that accepts an IPod, ad- hoc pockt recorder), or Micport
Microphones as AKG Blueline, Alesis GT-40, Schoeps Collette

I am always interested in recording techniques and non-overly complicated recording. Any one with tips tricks and advise is encouraged to write me.

falkguitars.blogspot.com
dave@falkguitars.com
davefg34 on the jazz matrix or



Digital Recorder Round-Up

Listed are the street princes for pocket digital recorders capable of high quality digital recording. The consumer’s point of view is that a use with a relative simple to operate device which will work with their home computer. There is an emphasis for the Macintosh platform. Note than units which supporting Mac also support PC. Look closely to processor chips when making your decision (It may support Mac but only Power PC macs). Multi trac recording is nice— some are described here.

Are some devices better than others? Make customer support of the product a criterion for guiding your selection. Manufacture history and price point round out the final decision judgments. You make the wisest pick.

Other things included are it’s nice to plug in your external mic for recording so capable units are listed. Line out and headphone ports are mentions as well as connections to computers. Attention to battery type is included. Lists of specifications are provided for review and comparison.

Specifications presented originate from mass merchant sites and modified for use here.

Consumer point of view: Macintosh compatibility,
multi/high rate of recording (up to 96kHZ, 24 bit),
use of power adapters and battery use AAs—trying to stay away form internal rechargeable. Read reports of customer service denying warranty fixes in lieu of parts and materials repair which rival original cost of unit.
Multi- trac recoding preference
Connection to computer to upload

The Round-Up

Korg MR-1
$399.00

Comments: Both Win/Mac Platforms supported, hit 24 bit recording rate, line in out, headphones, usb connection, 2 tracks, Internal rechargeable battery and power adapter, sports 1 bit recording ability—reports in literature as advancement in audio recording for SACD format which offers frequency response up to 100kHZ. This unit appears to be feature rich and full of technical platforms suitable for audio engineers.

Korg MR-1 Mobile Recorder Specifications:

– Frequency Response: 10 Hz-20 kHz ± 1 dB @ fs 44.1/48kHz, 10 Hz-40 kHz ± 1 dB @ fs 88.2/96 kHz/176.4kHz/192 kHz, 10 Hz-100 kHz (1-Bit)
– S/N: 90 dB (typical) @ IHF-A INPUT-OUTPUT
– THD+N: 0.018% (typical) 20 Hz-20 kHz
– A/D Conversion: 2.8224MHz (1-bit), 24-bit (PCM)
– D/A Conversion: 2.8224MHz (1-bit), 24-bit (PCM)

INPUT 1-2
– Connectors: mini phone jack (balanced)
– Input Impedance: 10 kOhms
– Nominal Level: LINE -6 dBV, MIC -39 dBV
– Maximum Level: LINE +6 dBV, MIC -27 dBV
–
– Connector: stereo mini phone jack
– Nominal Level: -6 dBV
– Maximum Level: +6 dBV
– Load Impedance: 10 kOhm or greater

PHONES
– Connector: stereo mini phone jack
– Output Impedance: 16 ohms or greater
– Maximum Level: 40 mW + 40 mW @ 16 ohms

USB
– Connector: Type B (mini)
– Format: USB 2.0 High-Speed device, USB mass storage class

Included Items
– AC adapter (also operates as charger), Owner's Manual, protective case, stereo mic (CM-2M), clip stand, CD-ROM ("AudioGate" audio file conversion application)

MP3 format support will be added in an upcoming free update. This system updater is expected be available in the middle of 2007 via KORG distributor's websites.

System Requirements
– Supported OS: Windows Me/2000 or later, Mac OS 9.0.4 or later

AudioGate
– Supported OS: Windows XP Home Edition/Professional Edition Service Pack 1 or later, Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later (Intel-based Mac supported)
– Supported Computers: [Windows] Intel Pentium III 1 GHz or faster [Macintosh] Apple G4 800 MHz or faster (Intel-based Mac supported)
– Memory: 256 MB or larger (512 MB or larger recommended)

Korg MR-1 Mobile Recorder Features:

– Recorder Section
– Number of Tracks: 2 tracks, 2-track recording/playback simultaneously
– Recording Formats: <1-bit> DSDIFF, DSF, WSD: 2.8224 MHz @ 1-bit WAV, BWF: 44.1 kHz @ 16/24-bit, 48 kHz @ 16/24-bit, 88.2 kHz @ 24-bit, 96 kHz @ 24-bit, 176.4 kHz @ 24-bit, 192 kHz @ 24-bit 44.1kHz/192kbps(playback 44.1kHz/32kbps-320kbps)
– Internal Hard Disk Drive: 20 GB
– Recording Time: max approx. 31 hours (44.1 kHz @ 16-bit, 2-track)
– Number of Projects: ––Recognizes a maximum of 200 for each format, max 1,000 projects
– Mark Points: 100 points per a song (no mark name)
– USB Functions: USB2.0 supported, ability to use as FAT32 external USB drive
– Song Editing: rename, delete, protect

General
– Display: 160 x 104 dots LCD with backlight
– Dimensions: 64 (W) x 120 (D) x 24 (H) mm / 2.52" (W) x 4.72" (D) x 0.94" (H)
– Weight: 200 g (including battery)
– Power Supply: AC adapter, or internal rechargeable battery (lithium ion polymer)
– Current Consumption: 2.15 W
– Accessories: AC adapter (also operates as charger), carrying pouch, stereo mic (CM-2M), CD-ROM ("AudioGate" audio file conversion software)

Korg MR-1 Mobile Recorder Includes:

– AC adapter, carrying pouch, stereo mic (CM-2M), CD-ROM



Marantz PMD620
$399.00

Comments: Supports 24 bit sample rate, Verify Mac platform use, Line in /out, headphones, in mic,

Marantz PMD620 Digital Recorder Specifications:

– Digital Audio System
– System: Solid State Recorder
– Usable Media: SD/SDHC Cards

Recording Format
– MP3: MPEG1 Layer III Compression
– WAV: 16/24 Bit Linear PCM

Recording MP3 Bit-rate
– Stereo: 192/128/64 kbps
– Mono: 96/64/32 kbps

Sample Rate: 44.1/48 kHz
– Number of Channels: 2 (Stereo) / 1 (Mono)

Audio Performance
– Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz (±1 dB)

Signal-to-noise Ratio, IEC-A Weighted
– MIC: 68 dB
– LINE: 80 dB

Total Harmonic Distortion at 0 VU
– MIC: 0.06%
– LINE: 0.02%

Dynamic Range 81 dB

Inputs
– External MIC
– Type: 1/8" stereo jack
– Input Sensitivity: 6 mVrms/30 kohms

LINE
– Type: 1/8" stereo jack
– Input Sensitivity: 500 mVrms/20 kohms

Outputs
– LINE
– Type: 1/8" stereo jack
– Standard Level: 1.0 Vrms/10 kohms

Headphone
– Type: 1/8" stereo jack
– Standard Level: 16 mW/16 ohms

Speaker
– Standard Level: 150 mW/8 ohms

General
– Power Consumption
– Recording/Playback: 1.5 W (DC)
– Battery Life (Alkaline): 5 hours (Typical)
– Phantom Power: 5V, 1mA (Max.)

Environmental Conditions
– Operational Temperature: 0 to 40°C (32 - 104°F)
– Operational Humidity: 25% to 85% (No condensation)
– Storage Temperature: 20 to 60°C ( 4 - 140°F)

Dimensions
– Width: 62 mm (2.5")
– Height: 102 mm (4")
– Depth: 25 mm (1")
– Weight (Excluding Batteries): 110 g (4 oz)

Included Accessories
– Audio Cable
– USB Cable
– AC Adapter
– User Guide
– CD-ROM
– Handy Strap
– Customer Registration Document (U.S. Only)
– Tripod/Belt Clip Adapter
– SD Card

Marantz PMD620 Digital Recorder Features:

– True handheld portability with one-touch stereo recording
– Professional recording features and flexible file formats
– Digital recording with file size limited only by SD card capacity
– On-board editing and playback features
– Full inputs and outputs, including USB 2.0 connectivity



Dynasonic PDR-1
$129.00

Comments: Record rat max = 44kHz/16bit, lines in/out, in for mic, guitar, power adapter and acceptes batteries.

Dynasonics PDR-1 Stereo Digital Recorder Specifications:

– Highest sample rate: 128Kbps for MP3s, 44kHz, 16-bit for WAVs
– S/N ratio at 1 KHz: 55dB
– Frequency response: 20 to 20kHz
– Internal mic: two of L & R
– External Mic: two for 1/4" mono jacks
– Earphone (1/8" stereo): one
– Line out: 1 of 1/8" stereo jack
– Line in: 2 of 1/4" mono jacks
– Guitar in: 2 of 1/4" mono jacks
– Built in Flash memory: 128MB
– Max. SD card memory capacity: 4G
– Monitor speaker: yes
– Size: 33"W x 11"H x 61"D

Dynasonics PDR-1 Stereo Digital Recorder Features:

– Support high-quality 44 kHz WAV and MP3 recording formats
– Stereo built-in condenser microphones
– Stereo audio inputs, switch to microphone, guitar, and line-in recording sources
– Volume control for input and output level adjustment
– Stereo earphone jack
– Built-in flash memory
– Equipped with an expended memory socket of SD card
– USB port for computer connection and DC power in
– Equipped with a monitor speaker
– Works with two AA batteries or DC 5V


M-Audio MircoTracII
$299.00

Comments: Win/Mac platforms, recording rate 96khz/24bit, poweradapter and Accepts batteries, dual channel recording, USB Connection, R/L Line out, S/PDIF port, L/R Mic in, mic in headphones

M-Audio MicroTrack II Portable Digital Recorder Specifications:

– Minimum system requirements
– PC
– Windows XP (SP2)
– USB 1.1 or 2.0 port on the computer for connection and power charging Mac
–Mac OS X 10.3.9 or greater USB 1.1 or 2.0 port on the computer for connection and power charging

Compatibility
– WAV
– BWF
– MP3

Recording and storage specs
– MP3 recording: 96 to 320kbps at 44.1 or 48kHz
– PCM recording: 16 or 24-bit at 44.1, 48, 88.2 or 96kHz
– storage capacity: variable based on data rate and storage medium

M-Audio MicroTrack II Portable Digital Recorder Features:

– 2-channel WAV, BWF, and MP3 recording and playback for pro recording,
– Upgraded features include extended input gain range, analog input limiter, and seamless recording of files beyond 2GB in size for enhanced performance
– Battery-operated
– Storage via CompactFlash or Microdrives (sold separately) for mobility and convenience
– Drag-and-drop file transfer to PC and Mac via high-speed USB 2.0 mini-connector to upload and share your content in minutes
– Easily add markers to BWF files
– Professional balanced 1 4" TRS inputs capable of mic or line-level signals
– Separate left and right input level controls with signal and peak indicators
– dual microphone preamps with 48V phantom power for studio microphones
– 1/8" TRS input with 5V power for use with stereo electret microphone (microphone included)
– S/PDIF coaxial input for digital transfers
– Monitoring via RCA line outputs or 1/8" stereo headphone output
– Monitor S/PDIF input via headphones while recording
– Customizable folders for organizing files
– Dedicated buttons for navigation, record, hold, pause, delete, menu, and power
– Built-in CompactFlash speed test ensures optimal card performance
– Large LCD with backlight dimmer
– Output level control
– Hibernation mode
– Powered via USB, built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, or included power supply
– Includes electret T-shaped microphone, software for editing and file format conversion, carrying pouch, 1/8" stereo extension cable with lapel clip, power supply, and USB cable

Package contents:
– MicroTrack II mobile digital recorder
– Printed Quick Start Guide
– CD-ROM with documentation and editing software
– 1m USB cable (USB A to Mini B)
– 1m 1/8" headphone extension cable with lapel clip
– T-shaped electret microphone
– Earbuds
– Protective carrying case with mic pouch
– Power supply unit with USB connector


Yamaha PocketTrack CX
$399.00

Comments: Mac/Win savey, power adapter and battery support, unknown word size,

Yamaha POCKETRAK CX Pocket Recorder Specifications:

– General:
– Hardware:
– Dimension (W x H x D): W 46.5mm x H 129.5mm x D 17.5mm
– Weight: 92 g (including "eneloop" AA battery)
– Memory: micro SD/ micro SDHC card(2GB micro SD included)

Battery:
– "eloop"rechargeable Battery x 1
– "eneloop" recharge: yes (220 minutes)

Battery life:
– AA Alkali: MP3: 54 hours, PCM: 22 hours
– AA "eneloop": MP3: 44 hours, PCM: 21.5 hours

Playback battery life:
– AA Alkali: MP3: 54 hours, PCM: 24.5 hours( w/ earphone)
– AA "eneloop": MP3: 45 hours, PCM: 23 hours( w/ earphone)

Recording mode/microSD Card capacity maximum recording time–:

Linear PCM 48 kHz/microSD card: 512MB - 40min; 1GB -1hr & 20min; 2GB - 2hr & 50min; 4GB - 5hr & 40min
– Linear PCM 44.1 kHz/microSD card: 512MB - 45min; 1GB -1hr & 30min; 2GB - 3hr & 5min; 4GB - 6hr & 15min
– Stereo MP3 320kbps/microSD card: 512MB 3hr & 30min; 1GB - 7hr; 2GB - 13hr & 50min; 4GB - 27hr & 50min
– Stereo MP3 192kbps/microSD card: 512MB 5hr & 50min; 1GB - 11hr & 50min; 2GB - 23hr & 10min; 4GB - 46hr & 30min
– Stereo MP3 128kbps/microSD card: 512MB 8hr & 50min; 1GB - 17hr & 50min; 2GB - 34hr & 50min; 4GB - 69hr & 50min
– Stereo MP3 64kbps/microSD card: 512MB 17hr & 40min; 1GB - 35hr & 40min; 2GB - 69hr & 50min; 4GB - 139hr & 40min
– Mono MP3 32kbps/microSD card: 512MB 35hr & 30min; 1GB - 71hr & 20min; 2GB - 139hr & 40min; 4GB - 279hr & 30min

–The listed recording times are approximate. Actual recording time will depend on the specific microSD memory card used. If multiple audio files are recorded the total recording time will be less than listed above. The maximum size of any single audio file is 2 GB.

LCD screen:
– LCD Type: Dot matrix, with back light
– Language: English

Others:
– Headphone (stereo mini 3.5mm) x 1
– Stereo microphone input stereo mini 3.5mm line input possible x 1
– microSDcard slot x 1

System Requirement (POCKETRAK CX)
– Computer:
– Windows computer with USB jack
– Macintosh computer with USB jack

OS:
– Windows Vista / Windows XP
– Mac OS X Version 10.4 / 10.5

System Requirements:
– Windows:
– OS: Windows Vista / XP Professional (SP1 or later) / XP Home Edition (SP1 or later) –
– CPU: Intel Core / Pentium / Celeron processor more than 1.4GHz
– RAM: more than 512MB
– HDD: Blank area more than 1GB
– Display: Full color more than 1280x800
– Others: DVD-ROM drive, ASIO or Direct X audio device(ASIO devices are recommended)
– Internet connection is necessary to make the license registration
– When you use Windows Vista, Cubase AI 4.1.2Update should be installed.

Macintosh:
– OS: MacOS X 10.4 or later
– CPU: PowerPC G4 1GHz/ Core Solo 1.5GHz
– RAM: More than 512MB
– HDD: Blank area more than 1GB
– Display: Full color more than 1280x800
– Others: DVD-ROM drive, Core Audio device
– Internet connection is necessary to make the license registration

Yamaha POCKETRAK CX Pocket Recorder Features:

– Compact and lightweight
– Long lasting, rechargeable "eneloop" battery
– 90 degree, X-Y stereo microphone for wider and more realistic stereo recording
– Expandable memory
– Playback speed adjustment (70% -150% in MP3)
– Onboard speaker
– Mountable on camera and microphone tripod stands
– Accessories include stereo earphones, USB cable, AA "eneloop" battery, windscreen, microphone stand adaptor, 2GB microSD memory card, and carrying pouch.
– Includes Cubase recording software

Yamaha PocketTrack
$299.00

Comments: max record rate = 44kHZ / 16 bit, incertable batteries/ power adapter, Need to verify Windows only platform, Use of included Cubase DAW software for editing. Line I for mic, cool built-in usb port


Yamaha POCKETRAK 2G Pocket Recorder Specifications:

– Dimensions: 1 1/4" W (34.2 mm) x 4 5/8" H (119.5 mm) x 1/2" D (13 mm)
– Weight: 1.7 oz (49 g) including battery
– eneloop Battery: Yes
– eneloop Recharge: 90 minutes

Battery Life:
–AAA Alkali: MP3: 25 hours; PCM: 9 hours
–AAA Ni-MH: MP3: 19 hours; PCM: 8 hours, 30 min
– -
– Playback Battery Life:
–AAA Alkali: MP3: 22 hours; PCM: 9 hours, 30 min (Earphone); MP3: 14 hours; PCM: 6 hours (Speaker)
–AAA Ni-MH: MP3: 17 hours; PCM: 9 hours, 30 min (Earphone); MP3: 11 hours, PCM: 6 hours (Speaker)

Dot matrix, backlit LCD display
– Internal Stereo Microphone
– Internal Speaker
– Ext. Mic. Input (stereo recording available),
– LINE IN Recording (microphone input switchable)
– Recording Format: Linear PCM, MP3
– Recording Configuration: Internal microphone, ext. mic input, line in (automatic song divide available)
– Recording time/Frequency Response/Sampling Frequency/Bit Rate:
–PCM stereo: 3 hours, 10 min; 40 20kHz; 44.1kHz; 16 bit; 1411kbps
–XHQ stereo: 35 hours, 20 min; 40 15kHz; 44.1kHz; 128kbps
–HQ stereo: 71 hours; 40 7.5kHz, 22.05kHz, 64kbps
–SP stereo: 142 h, 40 3.5kHz, 11.025kHz, 32kbps
–LP mono: 284 hours; 40 3.5kHz; 16kHz; 16kbps
– Voice Automatic Recording System
– ALC (Auto Level Control) ON/OFF
– ALC sensitivity select (High/Middle/Low)
– Level meter display (ALC OFF 31steps/peak hold/LED peak)
– Security function
– Timer record
– Time stamp
– Record monitor
– File delete confirmation
– Payback format: MP3, WMA, WAVE, DRM10-WMA
– Clear voice function: yes
– Repeat: ONE, ALL, Random, Count down (five seconds)
– Musical function: EQ (NOR/POP/ROCK/JAZZ), BASS
– Playback speed: Slow PB (75%), normal (100%), Fast PB (120%)
– Other Functions: Title display (ID3 Tag), Play list (m3u format), Alarm PB (Beep/FOLDER)

Data transfer:
–Connection: USB direct (slide connector)
–Transfer speed: USB 2.0 High Speed, 1500 kbps
– Connection:
–Mass storage class: yes
– Accessories: USB cable (for PC connection), AAA eneloop rechargeable battery, stereo earphone (inner ear type), leather carrying case, DVD-ROM

Yamaha POCKETRAK 2G Pocket Recorder Features:

– Only 1.7 Ounces and 1/2 Inch Thick -Take it Everywhere!
– 2 GB Memory for High Audio Quality and Extended Recording Times
– High-sensitivity Tilt-up Microphone
– Level Meters and ALC for Optimum Record levels
– Long-lasting Rechargeable Battery
– Direct USB 2.0 Computer Connection
– DRM10 Playback Support and Comprehensive Playback Functions

CUBASE AI Digital Audio Workstation Software Included
– CUBASE AI Features:
– CUBASE 4 audio engine.
– 48 audio tracks and up to 64 MIDI tracks.
– 25 VST effect plug-ins, including 15 new VST3 plug-in effects.
– HALionOne software sample player with selected MOTIF waves.
– Plug and Play VST/MIDI setup.
– Studio Connections Integration.
– File Interchange between Steinberg software and Yamaha hardware.
– 20 MIDI music styles and 480 audio drum loops included.


Edirol R-09hr
$399.00

Comments: Window based, good value though up to 96kHZ, Includes Cakewalk editing software light, accepts AA batteries, line in and mic in

Edirol R-09HR 24BIT/96KHZ WAV/MP3 RECORDER Features:

– 24-bit/96kHz linear PCM high-resolution, low-noise recording
– Newly developed Isolated Adaptive Recording Circuit (I.A.R.C.)
– High-grade, high-sensitivity stereo condenser microphone built in
– Records to SD or SDHC memory card (Up to 32 GB)
– Compact, hand-held body for convenient portable use
– Wide view-ability on large OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) display
– Preview speaker built in
– Wireless remote controller included
– High-speed file transfer via USB 2.0 connection to computer
– Cakewalk "pyro Audio Creator LE" wave-editing software included


Olympus LS-10
$399.00
Comments: Uses AA batteries supports Mac, Mic port, 96kHz

– Recording Format: Linear PCM (Pulsed Code Modulation) WAVE
– MP3 (MPEG-1/MPEG-2 Audio Layer 3)
– WMA (Windows Media Audio)

Recording Media
– Built-in 2 GB NAND Flash memory
– SmartDisk card (512 MB to 8 GB)

Recording Time with built-in 2 GB memory
– Linear PCM: Up to 3 hours 10 minutes
– MP3: Up to 35 hours 35 minutes
– WMA: Up to 69 hours 35 minutes

Card Format: SD, SDHC
– Input Level
– Mic sense high: 59 dBv
– Mic sense low: 39 dBv
– Line in jack input: 6 dBv

PC Interface: USB
– LCD: 35 x 29 mm
– LED: 1 color (red)
– Folder Messages: 5 folders, 200 messages per folder, plus MUSIC folder
– Speaker: 2 16mm round dynamic speakers, 8 ohms, 200 mW output
– MIC Jack: 3.5mm stereo mini-jack, impedance 2 kohms
– Line in Jack: 3.5mm stereo mini-jack, impedance 2 kohms
– EAR Jack: 3.5mm stereo mini-jack, impedance 8 ohms
– Maximum Headphone Output: 3 mW per channel at a load of 16 ohms
– Batteries: 2 AA Alkaline, Lithium, or NiMH batteries
– External Power Supply: Olympus D-7AC AC Adapter
– Size: 131.5 mm x 48 mm x 22.4 mm (without protrusions)
– Weight: 165 grams (including alkaline batteries)

OS Supported
– Windows: 2000/XP/VISTA
– Macintosh: Mac OS 10.2 or later

CPU and RAM
– Windows: Intel Pentium or AMD Athlon 1.4 GHz processor, 512 MB RAM
– Macintosh: Power Mac G4 1 GHz or Core Solo 1.5 GHz, 512 MB RAM

Sound Board
– Windows: Windows DirectX compatible, ASIO compatible sound card recommended for low latency performance
– Macintosh: Core Audio compatible audio hardware

Removable drive: DVD-ROM drive required for installation of Steinberg Cubase LE4 software
– Video Card and Display: 1024 x 768 pixels, 256 color or more
– USB Port: One free port
– Audio Output: Earphone output or speakers

Olympus LS-10 Linear PCM Recorder Features:

– 24 bit/96 kHz linear PCM recording to capture sound exactly as you hear it, with dependable, extra-high-quality digital recording that sounds better than a CD
– Multiple recording formats: WAV, MP3, and WMA. Record and playback in the format of your choice for versatility and expanded recording capacity
– High-sensitivity microphones and high-quality microphone amplifier circuitry to capture every detail and nuance and reduce interference for ultimate sound clarity
– Long battery life with up to 12 hours of recording capability-2 GB built-in memory and Smart Disk removable card slot for expanded capacity
– The durable, easy-to-grip aluminum and lightweight, 5.33-ounce body allows you to use the compact recorder with one hand
– Despite its compact design, the LS-10 incorporates built-in stereo speakers that allow you to enjoy high-quality sound playback anytime, anywhere
– The LS-10 Linear PCM Recorder is ideal for any musician or nature enthusiast looking to record audio in the highest possible quality, and great for journalists who need to interview and report news on the spot

Package Contents
– LS-10 Linear PCM Recorder
– Strap
– Carrying case
– USB 2.0 cable (KP-10)
– Wind screen
– 2 AA batteries
– Warranty card
– Software DVD-ROM: Steinberg Cubase LE4
– Instruction manual


Tascam DR-1
$299.00


Comments:

– Portable, handheld recording: this stylish recorder is small enough to take anywhere
– 44.1kHz/24-bit recording resolution: this better-than-CD-quality recording improves on competing MP3 recorders
– Records to SD Card media, an affordable, compact, solid-state media that is easy to find and can be sold as an accessory
– MP3 and WAVE file recording and playback to record in high-quality WAVE format or compressed MP3 right in the recorder
– Built-in high-quality stereo condenser microphone for great audio quality without adding an additional mic
– Variable-angle microphone mechanism so you can vary the angle of the microphone so it points towards the top or the front of the unit for tabletop or shirt pocket recording
– A-B stereo microphone configuration: two separate microphone capsules arranged in a similar configuration to human hearing
– Powered external mic input so you can add your own microphone for a different sound
– Switchable low-cut filter to filter low-frequency noise like wind or rumble
– Analog auto gain control to automatically set the ideal recording level
– A built-in long-life rechargable lithium-ion battery
– USB 2.0 connection to computer for high-speed transfer of recordings for editing and mastering
– Overdub function to record narration, singing, or other instruments on top of an existing recording
– On-board reverb effect to add hall or room reverb effects to a recording on playback
– Built-in tuner and vocal cancel features to sing along with the music and measure how flat you're singing


Highest level of recording = 44kHz
Built in battery rechargeable


Line 6 BackTrack instant replay recorder
$149.00

Comments:
Backtrack + Mic can capture up to 24 hours of audio. Saved as WAV files to a rugged and reliable 2-GB flash memory, the captured audio is easily transferred to a computer via USB 2.0 for storage or further recording, editing, or mixing. The internal battery, providing over 8 hours of life, can be recharged via the USB connection.
Rechargeable batteries with USB connection, Cable included.



Sony PCM-D50
$499.99
Linear PCM recorder with studio-quality sound and versatile stereo recording.

Comments:
The PCM-D50 is a 96 kHz/24-bit recorder fitted with two-position (X-Y or Wide) stereo microphones, 4 GB of internal flash memory, and a Memory Stick Pro-HG Duo slot for additional storage. The body of the D50 is constructed of lightweight aluminum and it is built rugged to withstand the demands of pro applications, plus it offers long battery life using conventional AA alkaline batteries. The recorder includes a USB high-speed port for simple uploading/downloading its native .WAV format files to and from Windows PC or Macintosh computers. Other unique PCM-D50 features include digital pitch control, dual digital limiter (inherited from the PCM-D1), low-cut filter, Super Bit Mapping, A-B repeat, and MP3 playback capability. To complement the D50 recorder, new optional accessories include a remote commander, tripod stand, and microphone windscreen.

Built-in Electret Condenser Microphones The PCM-D50's electret condenser microphones have exceptionally high sound quality and offer a selection of 2 operating positions, X-Y and Wide Stereo. X-Y covers a wide sound range with good depth, perspective and a natural sounding stereo image; or alternatively, a wide stereo position offering a wider spread stereo image.

Superior Audio Signal Path The PCM-D50 is designed with four separate circuit boards to separate analog audio, digital audio, digital recording, and power supply circuits. Separate circuit boards for each function helps minimize noise.

Simple Uploading to Computer The PCM-D50 conforms to the USB 2.0 Mass Storage Class Device standard and this recorder's native recording file format is .WAV. This means recordings can be rapidly uploaded to a computer and used in conjunction with most common audio production software.

Versatile Recording Functions The PCM-D50 offers comprehensive signal processing features for location recording including a unique dual digital limiter function (inherited from the PCM-D1 recorder), a high pass filter with selectable frequencies (150 Hz or 75 Hz) and SBM (Super Bit Mapping) noise shaping. In addition, the PCM-D50 includes a 5 second pre-record buffer with an A-B repeat playback function.

Sony PCM-D50 Portable Linear PCM Digital Recorder Specifications:

– Built-in Microphones
– Electret Condenser microphones. High sensitivity -35.0 dB/Pa 1kHz (typical); Maximum input level 120 dB SPL; Self-noise level 20.0 dB SPL (A)

Recording Media
Built-in flash memory 4 GB, Memory Stick Pro-HG Duo (Not Supplied), Stereo Recording. The PCM-D50 is compatible with
Memory Stick Pro-HG Duo MS-EX4G (4GB),
MS-EX2G (2GB), and
MS-EX1G (1GB); and
Memory Stick Pro Duo (High Speed)
MSX-M2GNU (2GB) and
MSXM1GNU (1GB)

Sample Rates
– 22.05 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz and 96 kHz

Quantization
– 16-bit linear, 24-bit linear

Recording File Format
– Linear PCM Stereo .WAV

MP3 Playback
– Compatible bit rates and sampling frequencies:
– MPEG Version 1 Layer 3: 32, 44.1, 48kHz with 32 to 320 kbps (VBR)
– MPEG Version 2 Layer 3: 16, 22.05, 24 kHz with 32 to 160 kbps (VBR)

Maximum Record Time using Internal 4 GB Flash Memory
– 22 kHz 16-bit Recording Mode: 12 hours and 55 minutes
– 44.1 kHz 16-bit Recording Mode: 6 hours and 25 minutes
– 44.1 kHz 24-bit Recording Mode: 4 hours and 15 minutes
– 48 kHz 16-bit Recording Mode: 5 hours and 55 minutes
– 48 kHz 24-bit Recording Mode: 3 hours and 55 minutes
– 96 kHz 16-bit Recording Mode: 2 hours and 55 minutes
– 96 kHz 24-bit Recording Mode: 1 hour and 55 minutes

Frequency Response (Line Input to Line Output)
– For Fs = 22.05 kHz: Frequency Response = 20 Hz to 10 kHz
– For Fs = 44.1 kHz: Frequency Response = 20 Hz to 20 kHz
– For Fs = 48 kHz: Frequency Response = 20 Hz to 22 kHz
– For Fs = 96 kHz: Frequency Response = 20 to 40 kHz

Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Line Input to Line Output)
– 93 dB or greater (1 kHz IHF-A) when set to 24-bit

Total Harmonic Distortion (Line Input to Line Output)
– 0.01% or below (1 kHz, 22 kHz LPF)

Wow and Flutter
– Below measureable limit (less than +/-0.001% W. Peak)

Microphone Input (stereo mini jack)
– Input impedance: 22k, rated input level: 2.5mV, minimum input level: 0.7mV. Supports external mic plug-in power

Headphone output (stereo mini jack)
– Rated output level: 400 mV, maximum output level: 25 mW +25 mW or more, load impedance: 16 ohms

Line Input (OPT)
– Analog input - Input impedance: 40k ohms, rated input level: 2.0V
– Minimum input level: 450 mV
– Optical Digital Input - Input level: -24.5 dBm to -14.5 dBm, Absorption wavelength: 630 nm to 690 nm

Line Output (OPT)
– Analog output - Output impedance: 220 ohms, rated output level: 1.7V, load impedance: 22k ohms
– Digital optical output - Output level -21 dBm to -15 dBm, Emission wavelength: 630 nm to 690 nm

USB
– Hi-speed USB, mass storage class

Power Requirements
– DC IN 6V, Four AA (LR6) alkaline batteries (supplied), Four nickel metal hydride rechargeable batteries NH-AA (not supplied)

Power Consumption
– 0.75W

Dimensions
– 2-7/8" x 6-1/8" x 1-5/16" (w x h x d) not including projecting parts and controls

Mass
– 12.88 oz (including batteries)

Sony PCM-D50 Portable Linear PCM Digital Recorder Features:

– Portable and rugged 96 kHz and 24-bit recorder
– LCD digital peak bargraph metering-along with dedicated nominal and peak level LEDs
– Offers solid-state storage, free of drive mechanisms
– Built-in high-quality electret condenser stereo microphones
– Dual A/D digital limiter and low cut filter
– MP3 playback and digital pitch control