The Olympus WS-200S is suitable for field recording when the delivery platform will be the Web. The price is low -- see B&H, for example.
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The battery section slides off from the main unit to reveal a USB-2 connector.
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This one is me walking and talking in two different indoor spaces. Both files are MP3, 22 kHz, 16-bit mono. I just downgraded the WMA file (the format the Olympus saves in) and saved them without making enhancements. I did edit a noisy fumble out of the middle of this file.
This file was recorded in a Starbucks with an Electro-Voice 635 mic. I held the mic at about knee level while sitting near the window.
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One AAA battery powers the recorder for many hours. The built-in memory stores about 8 hours of audio at the HQ mono setting.
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The recorder accepts both headphones and an external microphone via two mini ports. The built-in condenser mic shuts off when an external mic is connected.
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I have been using the Electro-Voice 635 A and A/B with this recorder, with good results.
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To use a professional mic with this recorder, you'll need an XLR (female)-to-mini (male) cable. Check out the list at B&H.
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The mini jack of the mic cable.
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I find I get better sound with a line-matching transformer, which compensates for the XLR-to-mini "translation."
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The screen is clear and easy to read. The recorder comes with a small pamphlet that explains all the functions very clearly.
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Controls are separate and a cinch to use. Pressing Record a second time pauses the recording.
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A simple on/off slider and a hold switch on the back of the unit help guard against wasting the battery.
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