Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Compare Digital Voice Recorders

The use of micro-cassette recorders for recording purposes is dwindling. Technology has opened the door to digital voice recorders, which are small, hand-held devices that allow you to record onto memory for future playback or file transfer to a computer. But with many options to choose from, you need to compare which digital voice recorder will work for your individual needs.


Instructions


1. Know the standard voice recorder features. Comparing digital voice recorders will involve looking at the main features available on most recorders, including record time and quality, built-in or removable memory, as well as computer connection options. Most digital voice recorders come standard with a USB cable to connect to your computer for file transfers. Some models offer a docking station for a permanent connection to your computer.


2. Determine your recording requirements. If you'll be using your digital voice recorder to dictate letters or notes to be transcribed into a computer system, you may not need a recorder with a long record time option or high quality recording. A voice recorder with the standard play (SP) mode may fit your needs.


3. Look to the memory available on recorder models. A 16 MB memory card in a standard voice recorder will record up to six hours at the lowest quality setting and up to one hour at the highest quality setting.


4. Set a price range. While you can purchase a low-quality digital voice recorder at a general merchandise department store for less than $100, if you'll be using your recorder on a daily basis and need a reliable one, set your price range to be in the $100 to $200 range.


5. View the choices available to narrow down your selection. Visiting an electronics store or browsing websites of companies that manufacture digital recorders will allow you to compare the different models available that fit your requirements, as well as fit into your price range.


6. Read the reviews. Because you may not see a difference in products between manufacturers, you can continue to compare digital voice recorders by reading the reviews and recommendations of current product users.

Tags: digital voice, voice recorder, digital voice recorders, digital voice recorder, price range, voice recorders