Field recorders

So I have never used, nor even heard of (shock horror) field recorders until I came here. And I figured it would be a good idea to have one, because now I am thinking that, while the SoundCloud phone app sampler is a neat little tool, it is quite limited, especially with its frequency range. But I am quite poor currently, though my birthday is coming up. So I'd like some recommendations on decent but reasonably priced field recorders. And also tips on how they work, how to use them, what you guys use them for, and the differences between the different ones!!

Pleeeeeeeeeeeease :D much appreciated!

Rikki

[Guest]

olympus, zoom and sony are popular brands - I have a sony pcm-m10 and it is simple to use and has exceptional battery life. As far as quality goes they are all pretty good. The big caveat here from me is I haven't looked at any new ones since I got my Sony when they first came out a few years ago, so maybe there are some more recent recorders that stand out.

I've been using field recordings for more than 30 years to capture all sorts of things. One trick is to record at 96khz - that way you can slow stuff down while keeping a 20kHz bandwidth (half speed) or 10kHz at quarter speed. Makes a big difference.
here's a blog that some people think has good recommendations http://www.zachpoff.com/diy-resource...commendations/

[Ciberithm]

I use the Tascam DR08, and really like it. It records at up to 96KHz and is very small and light. The only drawback is it has no tripod mount, but I mainly use it so I always have a recorder in my pocket when I travel, so that's not really needed. You can get these on eBay for 60-75 USD, and they are on sale at GuitarCenter for $100 every now and then.

[phoenstorm]

Probably a matter of personal preference - try to come up with a list of your needs and then see what fits the prerequisites...I decided to go with an Olympus LS-5 because for me, ease and quickness of use in everyday situations were key. Doesn't harm that it sounds very good to my ears and is really sturdy.

[Synthetic Aurality]

I use a Zoom H2N, it's light, affordable, easy to set up, and does surround recording (a bonus for me). Battery life is good, it'll take decent sized SD cards, and the sound quality is excellent. I have the extras kit which comes with a stand and windscreen, among other things. It also doesn't scream "RECORDER" so I can take it places and record things without people getting too paranoid...!

Full disclosure: I'm not a real serious field recording type, so your mileage may vary based on your needs and preferences.

[seismic1]

I use a Zoom H2N, it's light, affordable, easy to set up, and does surround recording (a bonus for me). Battery life is good, it'll take decent sized SD cards, and the sound quality is excellent. I have the extras kit which comes with a stand and windscreen, among other things. It also doesn't scream "RECORDER" so I can take it places and record things without people getting too paranoid...!

Full disclosure: I'm not a real serious field recording type, so your mileage may vary based on your needs and preferences.

I agree. The H2N is a neat piece of equipment, and you can use it as a makeshift audio interface.

[shaun rylands]

+ 1 for the zoom H2N . i'm recently new to the world of field recordings myself . i did a little review reading and opted for the zoom . obviously i'm no expert in the subject but this piece if equipment seems to do the job no probs . its easy to use and i got the basics down without even reading the instruction ....... ( in true man style ;) ) . here is my first real attempt at using it if youwant to hear it in action

https://soundcloud.com/rylo-3/a-walk-across-town


cheers , shaun .

[Guest]

first rate piece shaun - great use of the walk - really poetic

[RikkiSho]

Excellent! Massive help there guys thanks very much! I have decided to go for the H2N and have just ordered it! :D

[shaun rylands]

cheers mate . i appreciate that . im loving my zooooom

[Guest]

I've posted your track to http://www.reddit.com/r/ambient/ which I have found a pretty good site for attracting listeners and finding new stuff

re the zoom - we are in an age of miracles as far as music tech goes - the quality / price thing is amazing

[RikkiSho]

GOT IT!!! My zoom arrived today :D I am playing with it right now. :D