TOP 10 best voice recorders/recorders: characteristics, cost, reviews

Despite the fact that almost every modern smartphone already has a built-in application for sound recording, voice recorders still remain relevant to this day. They are actively used by journalists and interviewers, writers and musicians, and they will also be useful to ordinary people. Various conferences, lectures in educational institutions - the speech of any speaker can be recorded on a digital device, and subsequently listened to again at any convenient time.

Photo: Pixabay.com

In the fight for competition, voice recorder manufacturers are improving their models. And if earlier they were bulky and recorded sound on film cassettes, then modern devices are distinguished by their miniature dimensions, and they store all the material in the built-in memory. In addition, they can be used to listen to music, and some can serve as an FM radio.

Characteristics that you should pay attention to when choosing a device:

• Audio format. For the most part, manufacturers offer to record audio in MP3 or WAV; they can be played by any player on a computer without requiring conversion.
• The ability to change the compression quality of a track affects not only the sound, but also the file size.
• Noise reduction and the ability to adjust microphone sensitivity are also responsible for the recording quality.
• Mono or stereo sound. This characteristic is especially important for professional sound recording.
• The voice activation option allows you to start recording automatically without having to press a button.
• The amount of built-in memory and the possibility of its expansion.
• Operating time of the device.
• Computer compatible, operating system support.
• Possibility of connecting an external microphone to improve recording quality.

For ease of navigation, many devices provide recording of the date and time of an audio recording, rewinding, deleting, as well as other options that allow you to quickly find the desired recording.

We present the rating of voice recorders 2021. The best 12 models that were selected by our experts based on user reviews and ratings.

The best inexpensive voice recorders

Inexpensive voice recorders are an excellent combination of an affordable price and a set of basic options necessary for recording sound. They are equipped with built-in memory and are easy to use. Our selection includes compact models that do not take up much space; moreover, they can be multifunctional. Thanks to the headphone output, you can listen to the received recordings directly from the device or load other tracks into its memory.

Budget devices last for a long time, and all recordings can be easily transferred to a computer for further work with them.

4 Ambertek VR105 8GB

Today's rating opens with Ambertek VR105 with 8GB of memory.
This small device, weighing only 14 g, looks like an ordinary flash drive. However, the manufacturer has equipped it with a highly sensitive microphone, thanks to which the user can record up to 100 hours. Operating the device is so simple that even a child can handle it. To start recording, just slide the switch. A special indicator will notify you about the operating status. The built-in battery allows the device to work autonomously for up to 15 hours; it can be charged from a computer, laptop or charger. Using an indicator, Ambertek signals when the battery is low and stores material before shutting down. While the voice recorder is charging (this process will take only 1.5 - 2 hours), you can continue to record the conversation.

The resulting materials can be easily transferred to a computer; all you need to do is insert a recording device into the USB port. Users praise the performance of the Ambertek VR105, however, the further you are from the sound source, the worse the recording quality will become.

Pros:

• Miniature.
• Availability of indication.
• Easy controls.
• Fast charging.
• Long time of use.

Minuses:

• Small sound recording radius.

Ambertek VR105 8GB

3 Ritmix RR-120 4Gb

The Ritmix RR-120 won’t take up much space.
Its body is made of durable metal, and on the front panel there is an informative display that shows the time remaining until the end of the recording and other necessary information. Control is carried out using buttons, which are also located on the front panel and on the side. The advantage of this voice recorder is the ability to record sound in different formats; you can choose from WAV with a bitrate of 1536 kbps and MP3 (192 kbps). The device can be used as a player; for comfortable listening, its body is equipped with a special headphone jack. Another useful option is the ability to start recording when the recorder detects any sounds.

When the battery charge is low, the recording device automatically saves the received material. Autonomous operation lasts 15-20 hours, built-in memory is 4Gb. Users are attracted by the appearance of the Ritmix RR-120, but their main complaint concerns the recording quality, which may be accompanied by extraneous noise.

Pros:

• Functionality.
• Availability of display.
• Compactness.
• There is voice activation.
• Metal body.
• Various recording formats.

Minuses:

• Noise on the recording.

Ritmix RR-120 4Gb

2 Philips DVT1110

The second place in our rating is occupied by the Philips DVT1110 voice recorder.
This compact device will help you out when you need to record the speech of your interlocutor or your own thoughts. To quickly activate the device, just press one button. Sound is recorded in WAV format. The 1.3-inch diagonal display located on the front panel shows the necessary information; all symbols are clearly visible and clear. Due to the fact that each audio file is assigned a recording date and time, it becomes much easier for the user to navigate the received material; all recorded information can be transferred to a computer. The device is compatible with the Windows and macOS operating systems and connects to a PC via USB.

The model has a built-in memory of 4 GB and is powered only by AAA batteries. You need to take this into account and always have a spare set with you. On average, the voice recorder can work up to 12 hours.

A USB cable and one set of batteries are included with the device. There is a headphone jack on the case. Another useful option is the ability to lock buttons.

Pros:

• Quick recording.
• Sound quality.
• Headphone jack.
• Possibility of fixing timestamps.
• Batteries included.
• Design.

Minuses:

• Batteries run out quickly.

Philips DVT1110

1 Ritmix RR-145 8Gb

In first place is Ritmix RR-145.
This device simultaneously functions as a voice recorder and a music player. Its advantage is a capacious battery that provides autonomous operation without recharging for 28 hours. The model is equipped with a built-in memory of 8 GB; if necessary, the user is given the opportunity to expand it using an additional memory card with a maximum value of up to 32 GB. To start the device, just press one button; at the same time, the model is equipped with the ability to voice activate sound recording. When the battery charge is low, the device automatically saves the recording, which will protect the user from losing the necessary information.

Sound recording is done in several formats: MP3 and WAV. It is also possible to select the quality of the saved track. Ritmix RR-145 interacts with operating systems such as Windows, Linux and Mac OS X. Using the USB cable that comes with the recorder, you can transfer received materials to your computer in a matter of minutes.

Pros:

• Multifunctionality.
• Availability of display.
• Possibility of increasing memory capacity.
• Various recording formats.
• Auto-save recording when battery is low.
• Enable voice recording.
• Durable housing.

Ritmix RR-145 8Gb

Budget level products

Ritmix RR-120 4Gb

It has very compact overall dimensions - this allows you to carry it even in a trouser or jacket pocket. The body is made of thin sheet metal equipped with stiffening ribs, in addition, this allows you to give the product additional style. In addition to the direct function of a voice recorder, this device can also be used as a classic mp3 player. The product is capable of playing most popular music formats - .mp3, .wma, .flac, .ape and some others. The sensitivity of the built-in microphone is quite high, thanks to which it is possible to obtain a very high quality of recorded sound, and in the model settings you can select the most suitable file extension. The model is capable of saving data in .wav (bitrate is 1536 kbps) or .mp3 (192 kbps) formats. There is no need to convert files. The design is equipped with a very interesting function - automatic voice activation of VOR. When activated, recording will begin immediately after the structure’s microphone detects any sounds.

The display here is liquid crystal segment. There is a standard headphone jack so you can listen to both the recordings themselves and the music stored in memory. Used as a regular flash drive when connected to a laptop or personal computer, in other words, you do not have to install drivers. The battery here is lithium-ion, its working life is quite enough for 7-8 hours of continuous operation in recording mode, and more in listening and listening mode. The recording is saved automatically in case of low battery charge.

Advantages:

• Compact overall dimensions;
• Very easy and simple to use;
• High recording quality;
• Original and stylish case;
• Reasonable cost;
• Can be used as a player.

More: Top 10 Best Professional Microphones
Disadvantages:

• The buttons could be made larger - they are not very convenient to press.

Ritmix RR-120 4Gb

Olympus VN-541PC

Despite the fact that this model went on sale almost three years ago, it remains widely popular among consumers to this day, largely due to its quite reasonable cost and ease of use. This digital model has a very sensitive microphone, making it excellent for recording lectures. In addition, this design will be very suitable for making short notes or notes - just one touch is enough, after which the model will record everything that the person says. The display here is liquid crystal, has a small diagonal and resolution, but it is quite informative. The sound during playback is clear; for quick connection to a computer, a microUSB cable is supplied with the product. The controls are intuitive, and the interface is completely Russified. All functions are basic.

The battery is quite powerful - you can record up to 25 hours on a single charge. To activate the device, just move the REC slider to the active position; the recorder will start working even if it was turned off before. There are several operating modes here - music, speech, notes, long-term recording function. They can be selected either manually or by default. The most important fragments can be marked thanks to special marks - up to 99 of them can be placed in one file. The device has an active system for suppressing extraneous noise. The kit also comes with a special case, which makes using the device absolutely safe.

Advantages:

• Quite easy to use;
• Reacts immediately when turned on;
• Powerful battery;
• High recording quality.

Flaws:

• Despite the fact that the device has a stereo microphone, recording is still carried out in mono mode.

Olympus VN-541PC

Ritmix RR-610 4Gb

It has a very interesting appearance that will retain its attractiveness throughout the entire period of operation. The model is equipped with a lithium-ion battery, which is capable of operating in autonomous mode for a long time. The device charges in about two to three hours. The case is made of matte black plastic, on which fingerprints will be practically invisible. Behind the removable cap is a regular USB connector. The cap itself fits onto the body quite tightly. There are quite a lot of control buttons here, in particular, there is a recording rewind, which is very convenient if you need to return to a certain section rather than listen to the file from the very beginning. On one of the end sides there are two connectors, through one of them you can connect headphones, and the second is a microphone input. It is worth noting that headphones are included in the package, but their sound quality is average.

There is a speaker hole on the back panel. The microphone is standard for fairly cheap models - monaural, but the recording quality is quite acceptable. Its location is very convenient; the sound is best recorded if you speak directly into the microphone, but this problem is easily solved by connecting an external device. Direct access to the voice recorder is provided without additional installation of drivers and special software. There are several quality recording modes, and the file size will depend on this. The power button is mechanical and is located quite conveniently. The battery capacity is 180 mAh, which will be enough for continuous operation for 6-8 hours.

Advantages:

• Light weight;
• Reasonable cost;
• Decent speaker volume;
• Convenient power button, which can be easily detected by touch;
• Charging is done via the USB connector.

Flaws:

• The cap covering the USB port is tight at first, but after a while it may become a little loose.

Ritmix RR-610 4Gb

Philips DVT2000

A very convenient and compact device that allows you to ensure the highest quality voice recording. The case has a special connector for connecting an external microphone. In general, the device itself looks very attractive and original. On the front panel you can find a silver insert made of polished metal. The case is made of high-quality plastic with a matte finish, so the recorder will not slip even from wet hands. The ergonomics of the device are thought out very carefully - all controls are located in such a way that it is convenient to use with one hand. On the left side you can find a microUSB port; there is also a slot for installing a microSD memory card, which is closed with a special plug.

On the right side of the case there is a button that allows you to select in which folder you want to save the recorded file. If necessary, you can set marks in the document to ensure maximum convenience of working with the recording. On the back of the case there is a cover that hides the battery compartment, which uses standard AA batteries. It is worth noting that batteries of the same size can be installed instead. The kit comes with a headset, but it is very simple. The display here is monochrome liquid crystal. At the top of the front panel there is an LED indicator that allows you to determine which mode the device is currently operating in. It will light green when it is playing files, and the red light will turn on when recording.

Advantages:

• Ideal for simple needs;
• Acceptable recording quality;
• Inexpensive;
• Long service life;
• High-quality assembly;
• Attractive appearance;
• It is possible to connect an additional microphone.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Philips DVT2000

The best voice recorders in the mid-price segment

The middle price segment is represented by a variety of models costing up to 4,000 rubles. Compact and lightweight, they have an attractive design, are equipped with high-quality microphones for good recording sound and are equipped with all the necessary settings.

With their help, you can record lectures and your own thoughts. A quick turn on of the device allows you to start recording instantly. With these devices you will record everything you need, and you can easily transfer the saved information to your computer.

4 Ritmix RR-989 4Gb

In fourth place is Ritmix RR-989.
Despite its small size, this model includes quite extensive functionality. It can be used as a voice recorder, audio player, FM radio and even a hearing aid. Voice recording takes place on 2 microphones, thus providing stereo sound. Users can choose not only the audio format, but also its quality. To record audio, for example, MP3 can be set to the highest quality of 320 kb/s, but in order to save space it can be compressed to 128, 64 or 8 kb/s.

Despite the variety of options, the device is not difficult to use, and it is equipped with a display that displays all the necessary information. You can enable sound recording in 2 ways: by pressing a special button or using voice activation.

Ritmix RR-989 has a built-in memory of 4 GB and also supports memory cards up to 64 GB. Operates on 2 AAA batteries. The main complaints from buyers were about the quality of the plastic case; some also noted noise when recording sound.

Pros:

• There is FM radio.
• Use as a player.
• There is voice activation.
• Stereo sound.
• Choose between quality and recording formats.
• Memory card support.

Minuses:

• Case material.
• Sound.

Ritmix RR-989 4Gb

3 Edic-mini microSD A23

The third position is occupied by Edic-mini microSD A23.
Its name speaks for itself, because this unusual model looks like an incredibly small black box. At first glance, you wouldn’t even think that this baby is a voice recorder. Thanks to the built-in highly sensitive microphone, the device is capable of capturing and recording sound at a distance of up to 10 m. To achieve better sound quality, you can connect an external microphone to it. Voice recording is done on a microSD memory card, and the user is offered 2 options for its implementation. Linear mode will allow you to record sound only within the free amount of memory, and with circular mode, old files are replaced with new ones, so even if there is no free space on the card, continuous recording occurs. The presence of a timer allows you to activate the model at a specified time.

The built-in battery lasts for 15 hours when fully charged. Each recorded file has information about the time and date of its creation. All configuration of Edic-mini occurs by editing the configuration file with a text editor.

Pros:

• Mini size.
• Various recording options.
• Possibility of voice activation.
• Connecting a microphone.
• Timer.
• Metal body.

Edic-mini microSD A23

2 Philips DVT2000

Second place goes to Philips DVT2000.
The device records sound in stereo format and functions not only as a voice recorder, but also as a radio. The front panel of the case is equipped with a clear backlit display. Thanks to the push-button control, the user can enter the device menu and set all the necessary settings. The model is powered by 2 AAA batteries and is designed for 38 hours of continuous operation. The recorder is equipped with a built-in memory of 4 GB. It also supports memory cards up to 32GB. The user is offered 2 recording formats: MP3 or WAV, and it is possible to set the quality of the audio file. Connection to a computer is made via a USB cable.

Useful options that the device has: one-button recording activation, voice control, the ability to record radio programs. Headphones are included with the device.

Buyers were satisfied with the performance of the model. Many praise it for its compactness, attractive design and high-quality sound recording. Some users have complained about date and time issues.

Pros:

• 2 recording formats.
• Ability to change audio quality.
• Radio and recording of broadcasts.
• Easy controls.
• The keyboard is locked.
• Backlit display.

Minuses:

• Does not save date and time.

Philips DVT2000

1 Olympus VN-541PC

The Olympus VN-541PC becomes the leader in the category of voice recorders in the mid-price segment.
With this model you can record audio in WMA format. It is enough to move the corresponding switch and the voice recorder immediately starts working. The model is equipped with highly effective noise reduction. The user can independently activate this option to improve the sound quality of the material. The functionality of the device includes 4 scenes for voice recordings: MEMO, MUSIC, TALK and Long Play. Each scene is recorded in a separate folder, so finding the desired file is easy and quick. The device is powered by 2 AAA batteries, which can provide it with up to 60 hours of continuous operation.

The body of the model is equipped with a display and a speaker, thanks to which you can listen to the created recordings. Additional features of the device: a connector for connecting an external microphone, the ability to connect headphones to listen to files.

The Olympus VN-541PC is compatible with PC and Mac OS and Windows operating systems. USB cable included.

Pros:

• Quick activation of audio recording.
• Noise suppression.
• Long work.
• You can connect a microphone.
• Availability of sound recording modes.
• Ease of operation.

Minuses:

• Does not support memory cards.

Olympus VN-541PC

The best devices in terms of price and quality ratio

Olympus VP-10

Universal products that are suitable for absolutely everyone - journalists, students, lawyers and other people seeking to obtain optimal sound quality during the recording process. With its small overall dimensions, such a device can give a significant head start to its analogues. The shape of the design resembles a standard pen, which is very convenient to carry in your pocket. All main product controls are located on the front side of the unit. There is also a special indicator that informs the user that the recording process has started, and it is located not only on the outside, but also duplicated on the back. At the top of the gadget there is a lever that activates the sound recording process itself. Works both from the included battery and from a standard battery.

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Like most of the models included in our review of the best voice recorders, there is a jack for standard headphones. Recording is carried out in stereo format, largely due to the presence of two additional microphones near this connector. On the back of the case you can find a clothespin that will secure the gadget in the user’s pocket. The USB connector is closed with a special rubberized cap, which is very convenient to remove and connect the product to a personal computer or laptop. The recording can be listened to in real time, slowed down or accelerated. The default settings are optimal for all operating modes.

Advantages:

• Very simple device control system;
• Even when placed in a bag or pocket, the voice recorder is capable of high-quality recording of quiet sounds;
• The buttons can be easily found by touch; they are pressed with a characteristic quiet click.

Flaws:

• The included battery is rather weak, so it is better to start using batteries right away.

Olympus VP-10

3. Edic-mini Tiny A45-1Gb

As most users note, this device can easily be considered a professional product. The recorder is easy to operate, the body is quite elegant and convenient to use. There is a voice activation system for the VAS gadget, with which you can significantly save battery power and free space. There is not too much of it in this device, which is easily compensated by the ability to place a microSD memory card in a special slot. The device is perfect for secret recording. At first glance, it may seem to an inexperienced observer that this is not a voice recorder, but an ordinary pen.

The design weighs very little - only 14 grams without taking into account the weight of the battery. The built-in battery will be enough to produce 50 hours of continuous recording or 120 hours of the recorder in standby mode. If necessary, the user can activate the timer; in the settings, it is possible to change the sensitivity of the microphone’s perception of sound vibrations. The case has a socket for installing an external microphone. The equipment is very easy to use, and it also uses the battery very economically; it can be charged from the mains via a special adapter or when connected to a personal computer.

Advantages:

• Minimum overall dimensions of the device and weight;
• Stealth design and excellent build quality;
• Operates for a long time on a single battery charge.

Flaws:

• Not so easy to find for sale in regular stores.

Edic-mini Tiny A45-1Gb

Olympus WS-853

The gadget has high performance indicators, and the recording is done in stereo format with support for Smart functionality. This makes the recorder simple and very pleasant to use. The device has a reliable and easy-to-connect noise suppression system. The microphone is capable of covering a radius of 90 degrees, which will allow a person not to miss anything important among what is happening around. To make listening to saved recordings as comfortable and convenient as possible, the recorder will automatically reduce the input signal level, thereby achieving a uniform volume level. Even a person who has never held similar products in his hands before will be able to understand the design interface. The case has a socket for connecting to a personal computer - this way the design will charge or transfer recorded data to the PC’s hard drive.

This voice recorder is capable of supporting the largest memory capacity of a removable flash drive up to 32 GB. It has an indexing of the most important points in the conversation - you can place up to 99 tags. The maximum power of the output signal will be about 250 mW. This indicator for such a product will be quite sufficient if you have to listen to the recording directly through the device’s microphone. The display, like most designs, is liquid crystal and does not differ in full color. The model can operate on batteries or other power sources.

Advantages:

• Excellent sensitivity of the device;
• Attractive appearance;
• Long service life;
• Batteries can be used from absolutely any price range.
• Quite acceptable battery life.

Flaws:

• The developers did not provide for the presence of LED backlighting.

Olympus WS-853

Sony ICD-TX650

It has very compact overall dimensions, which does not in any way affect the final quality of sound recording. When creating this voice recorder, the developers used only the most modern developments. This made it possible to make the model quite compact, and due to the presence of a built-in battery in the device, a long service life of the structure is ensured. The display here is very bright, OLED type. Use it to customize the recorder to suit your immediate needs. The range of the model's built-in memory will directly depend on the model's configuration. This design looks very expensive, stylish and modern. All controls of the structure are located only on the sides. It was decided to install a headphone jack between two stereo microphones. In the frame itself, located in the area of ​​the display itself, there is an LED sound recording indicator.

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The display is bright, clear, economical and consumes little energy. The battery here is lithium-ion. You can charge it either directly from a personal computer or through smartphone chargers. The product has as much as 16 GB of built-in memory, which can be further expanded if desired.

Users appreciated this gadget. It looks very stylish and takes up a minimal amount of free space in the room. The overall dimensions are small, so the voice recorder can be carried even in a shirt pocket. The product is well suited for hidden use. The interface is clear and very convenient; even a person who has not used such designs before can easily understand it. The built-in memory capacity is 16 GB - quite enough for a device such as a voice recorder. The kit includes everything you need for comfortable use - headphones, a cord for connecting to a computer, a case made of genuine leather.

Advantages:

• Excellent recording quality regardless of the selected mode;
• Decent amount of built-in memory;
• Beautiful appearance, the device itself weighs a little;
• Good assembly - nothing loose or creaks;
• Wide range of recording and playback settings.

Flaws:

• Decent price.

Sony ICD-TX650 Voice Recorder Review / THE MOST STYLISH OF ALL?

Sony ICD-TX650

The best voice recorders in the premium segment (professional)

Premium segment models are distinguished by increased performance and expanded functionality. They are suitable for professionals because they have highly sensitive microphones that can pick up an extended range of frequencies. Various modes and programs are designed for a specific situation and contain a ready-made set of settings. The ability to activate noise reduction makes audio recording clearer.

At the same time, professional voice recorders remain compact, easy to operate and easily synchronized with a computer.

4 Edic-mini PRO B42-300h

The top four category in the premium segment opens with the Edic-mini PRO B42-300h.
The presented model is distinguished by its miniature size, weighing only 16 g and durable metal body. Despite its dimensions, the device has a small display and control buttons, but they are very small. The device is powered by just one AAA battery, but can operate for 100 hours. The voice recorder is equipped with a built-in memory of 2 GB and is capable of capturing sound at a distance of up to 12 meters, while the sensitivity of the microphone can be adjusted. Thanks to the software settings, it is possible to set the recording start timer and change its quality (8 modes available). Using voice activation, the model begins to work independently.

Selecting a looped recording allows you to write new material over older material in the event that all memory is full. The voice recorder body is equipped with a headphone jack. All recorded files can be easily transferred to a computer using a USB cable. Time stamps will help you understand a large amount of material.

Pros:

• Size.
• Duration of work.
• Change microphone sensitivity.
• Setting the recording quality.
• Presence of a timer.
• Connecting headphones.
• Durable housing.

Minuses:

• There is no option to increase the memory capacity.

Edic-mini PRO B42-300h

3 Sony ICD-UX570

In third place is the Sony ICD-UX570.
The recorder is equipped with a highly sensitive microphone that can record even quiet sounds with high quality and clarity. By normalizing playback, the sound range expands, allowing you to get a clear audio recording. The presented model has extensive functionality. With its help, you can record not only speech, but also music, and modes specially preset for this will help you achieve the highest quality sound without unnecessary noise. The device is equipped with a built-in memory of 4 GB, which makes it possible to record up to 59 hours of material. It’s easy to navigate thanks to the option to skip long and short parts of the recording. In addition, the device supports 32 GB microSDHC and 64 GB microSDXC memory cards.

You don't need to constantly replenish batteries to operate, because the Sony ICD-UX570 is equipped with a built-in battery. There is also no need to worry about having a USB cable to connect to a computer, since the model connects directly to the PC. The voice recorder comes with a durable storage case.

Pros:

• Different recording modes.
• Sound normalization option.
• Memory card support.
• Possibility of noise reduction.
• Direct connection to PC.
• Bright display.
• Availability of a cover.

Minuses:

• At high sensitivity there may be noise in the recording.

Sony ICD-UX570 black

2 Tascam DR-07X

The second position is occupied by the stylish Tascam DR-07X voice recorder.
Despite its small size, the model is endowed with a huge number of functions and settings. The device is equipped with 2 high-quality microphones, the position of which changes for the best sound capture. With its help, the user will be able to record music, someone else's performance, his own speech, and it is suitable as an external sound card for recording songs and podcasts. Connecting an external microphone significantly expands the capabilities of the device, and a wide range of settings will help you achieve the best result for any task. Pre-recording ensures that audio is captured a few seconds before the device is activated. Tascam DR-07X is equipped with 6 reverb effects and a re-recording function. Using the overlay option, the user will be able to add any instruments and voices to existing audio tracks.

The recorder supports memory cards up to 128 GB. Using USB, all received files can be transferred to a computer in a matter of minutes for further work with them.

Pros:

• Multifunctionality.
• Changing the position of microphones.
• Different recording modes.
• The memory capacity can be expanded.
• Lots of settings.
• High quality recording.
• Connecting an external microphone.

Minuses:

• High sensitivity microphones.

Tascam DR-07X

1 Olympus DM-720

In first place is the Olympus DM-720.
The device is equipped with three microphones, two of which are directional, they provide stereo sound. The third is omnidirectional and is designed to accept low frequencies. This equipment contributes to high quality sound recording; in addition, the noise reduction system and microphone sensitivity modes significantly improve the audio level. Formats in which it is proposed to record sound: MP3 and PCM, their quality can be changed. The user is also offered several recording programs. The model has an internal memory of 4 GB and supports microSD and microSDHC cards. The battery allows the Olympus DM-720 to operate for 50 hours. All files can be transferred to your computer without requiring a USB cable. To make it easy to work with recordings, the device itself provides a fast rewind and fast playback function, and the voice playback option allows you to listen only to those parts of the recording that contain speech.

The device comes with a special clip that allows you to attach the recorder to a laptop or clothing; it can be used as a table stand.

Pros:

• High quality stereo sound.
• Noise suppression.
• Headphone jack.
• Selecting the quality for audio recording.
• Long battery life.
• Connect to PC without cable.
• Clip holder.

Olympus DM-720

Rating of the 5 best recorders today

Zoom H1

The stereo recorder became famous for its miniature size and ease of use. The body is made of plastic. A plastic casing acts as protection for the microphone. If necessary, you can use the button lock function to avoid accidental pressing. While recording, you can place marks on important points so that you can quickly navigate the file later. It is worth emphasizing that the case conducts sound well. For this reason, all clicks made during recording will be clearly audible in the final audio file. The model gained enormous popularity in a short time. Based on the reviews, we can say with confidence that the device is the best in its price segment.

Cost: 8,189 rub.

• Miniature;
• Easy to use;
• Extensive functionality;
• Excellent recording quality;
• Microphone protection.

• The case conducts sound well, which causes the recording to deteriorate.

Zoom H1 Portable Recorder

Tascam DR-05

The model turned out to be one of the best in all respects. She owes her title as a leader to recording crystal clear, deep sound. The design is able to pick up even the slightest noise of what is happening around. The device boasts a huge number of sensitivity settings for the built-in microphones. In this way, the unit can be adjusted to the appropriate situation. The quality of materials and assembly is excellent. In addition, the appearance also does not cast doubt on the professionalism of the manufacturer. Simply put, everything is at the highest level, making the device significantly superior to others in its price segment. The housing and external microphones are reliably protected. This significantly extends the life of the system.

Users note that the built-in speaker allows you to record clear sound without noise. However, if the need arises, you can use headphones for better audibility. The display is illuminated with a discreet amber backlight. It itself is small in size, you can easily see the necessary indicators.

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Cost: from 8,230 to 11,220 rubles.

• Excellent build quality;
• High-quality recording of audio files;
• Protection of individual elements;
• Ability to customize the system for a specific situation.

• Heavy weight;
• Impressive dimensions.

Portable recorder Tascam DR-05

Olympus LS-P1

The main task of the voice recorders in this series is professional recording of rehearsals and interviews. Microphones are placed at right angles. Together with a high-quality amplifier, they capture the sound as accurately as possible with crystal clarity. If we delve deeper into the study of the characteristics, we can conclude that the sound of audio files from the recorder is superior to the sound of CDs. It is important to note the fact that the model can work in conjunction with some cameras from the company and modern smartphones. A large number of reviews indicate that only much more expensive products with a remote control and control via Bluetooth can surpass this unit in recording quality. Other manufacturers do not have an equivalent offer.

Cost: from 7,288 to 14,025 rubles.

• Excellent recording quality;
• Thoughtful design;
• Working with cameras and smartphones;
• Excellent build quality.

• There is no wind protection.

Olympus LS-P1 Portable Recorder

Zoom H2n

You should immediately pay attention to the package, which includes a 2 GB memory card. Most manufacturers supply their products without this addition, so the model undoubtedly has an advantage over others in this regard. But some problems often arise with the battery compartment cover. It opens quite tightly, so untrained people can start poking at it with sharp objects in order to “pry it off”. In most cases, the device is damaged, so this is not recommended. The finish is glossy, which is why fingerprints and small scratches quickly appear on the case. The recording button is quite large and embossed, so you won’t be able to miss it. A large number of modes will satisfy any needs, so the model will be useful for any purpose.

As for the recording quality, there is nothing to complain about. But problems arise with the built-in speaker. In order to evaluate the sound, it is better to use headphones, because... Otherwise, you won’t be able to listen to the audio file normally due to the low-quality speaker.

Cost: from 13,379 to 17,700 rubles.

• Excellent recording quality;
• Relatively small in size;
• A large number of modes;
• Memory card included.

• The coating gets scratched quickly and fingerprints are noticeable;
• Low quality built-in speaker.

Zoom H2n Portable Recorder

Sangean DAR-101

The model can be powered either from the mains or from four batteries. All this together allows the device to work almost continuously. A powerful speaker allows you to listen to recordings even in public places. The user can easily adjust the microphone sensitivity to individual needs. The product can be used to record mobile conversations, which once again proves the increased sensitivity of microphones. The unit will become an indispensable assistant both at home and in the office. However, its dimensions are quite large, so it will not be possible to hide the structure from prying eyes.

Cost: 10,950 rub.

• Very powerful built-in speaker;
• Operation both from the mains and from batteries;
• A large number of functions;
• Ability to customize to suit the situation.

• Big sizes.

Portable recorder Sangean DAR-101