Handheld Recorders Buying Guide

How many tracks I can record?

How much recording time is possible?

What types of microphone do handheld recorders use?

How long will the batteries last?

How do I transfer audio files to my computer?

Handheld recorders very quickly acquire the attention in the audio world. It has a great usability. You can literally use it in anywhere to record anything. It is a very affordable media with long recording time. Additionally, it has a magically high audio quality.

Why would I want a handheld recorder?

The main reason of its popularity is – you can use it anywhere to record anything – a band rehearsal, a concert, demo of a song or what every you like. The most interesting thing about this gadget is – it is pretty small, you can literally hold into your palm. It is very easy to use with very minimum setup. You just need to point the recorder and press the "Record Button".

Surprisingly, this device has a great audio quality. The recorded sound is amazingly very good. Additionally, it does not contain any moving part, which creates noise during the recording time.

How many tracks I can record?

Generally, all standard handheld recorders offer stereo recording. On the other hand, there are some extra-ordinary recorders like Boss Micro BR, Zoom H4 offer 4 track recorders. Those devices allow you to record two tracks and play back four tracks concurrently. Additionally, The Boss Micro BR offers 32 virtual tracks, that means, you can record different takes and after that, you can decide which track you want to keep.

How much recording time is possible?

Well, usually handheld recorders store the data into a CompactFlash or Secure Digital Cards. They have a great storage in a very small package. One thing, you must remember before any recording, select the right audio format. Because depending on the audio format the storage will depends. For example, a conventional un-compressed CD quality recording will need more storage where as MP3 format need low storage space. Surprisingly, the most economical settings of recorder can handle 63 hours of recording.

 

What types of microphone do handheld recorders use?

Today, most of the manufacturers offer their handheld recorders with built-in stereo microphones. They are remarkable very good in quality and attached with in front of the recorder. They are external microphone. Not only that, there are numbers of recorders comes with XLR, minijack with phantom power for condenser microphones. Using this feature, you can plug a guitar, keyboard or any other line-level source as an input on those recorders.

How long will the batteries last?

As mentioned earlier, the main reason of the device is – portability. Due to it’s nature, it runs with batteries. Using batteries you can record six hours of recording. Usually those recorders will run with AA alkaline batteries. You can also use rechargeable batteries for cutting down the recurring cost.

How do I transfer audio files to my computer?

After completion of the recording, you can transfer the tracks from your recorder to your computer or laptop. You just need to plug the recorder through the USB port of your computer through a data cable and magically the recorder’s storage will appear into your computer’s desktop.