Olympus DS-2 Digital Voice Recorder

Product Review

The DS-2 is the high-performance instrument professionals need to get the job done. A built-in stereo microphone ensures crisp stereo sound and 64MB of internal memory supplies 22 hours of recording time (LP). Record via voice activation or from the easy-to-use buttons on the face of the recorder. With slow, fast, skip, and repeat playback options. Featuring DSS Player software for editing, archiving and more and a USB docking station for fast and easy file transfers. 12 different speed levels (8 in fast playback, 4 in slow playback) Skip playback and Repeat playback options Variable Control Voice Actuator (VVCA) setting saves time and battery life by recording only when sound is sensed AAA batteries supply up to 18 hours of continuous operation PC Interface USB cable Folders Messages - 5 folders capable of storing up to 199 files each DSS (LP/SP), WMA (HQ/SSP/SHQ) Recording Format with Built-in 64MB Recording Time - 22 hours 20 min (LP), 10 hours 25 min (SP), 4 hours 20 min (HQ), 2 hours 10 min (SSP), 1 hour 5 min (SHQ) Sampling Frequency - SHQ 44.1kHz 128kbps, SSP 44.1kHz 64kbps, HQ 44.1kHz 32kbps, SP 12kHz 13.7kbps, LP 8kHz 6.3kbps Overall Frequency Response - SHQ 100-17000Hz, SSP 100-8000Hz, HQ 100-7000Hz, SP 200-5000Hz, LP 200-3000Hz System Requirements - Intel Pentium II class 333 MHz processor or more, Power Mac G3 233 MHz or faster, Microsoft Windows ME, 2000 Professional, XP professional, Home Edition, Macintosh OS 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, RAM 128 MB or more (256MB or more is recommended), Sound Board Creative Labs Sound Blaster 16 or 100% compatible sound card, USB Port, Earphone output or speakers Dimensions - 4.8 x 1.5 x 0.7 inch Weight - 80 grams

Amazon.com Product Review

The advantages of digital voice recorders are numerous: superior sound, long recording times, and the convenience of built-in memory (much handier than hauling around several microcassettes). Enter the high-performance Olympus DS-2, which makes professional interviewing and dictation easy and efficient. With 64 MB of internal memory delivering up to 22 hours of total recording time in Long Play mode, the device is great for archiving long meetings or lectures, or for researching huge projects that require dozens of interviews. Users also have the choice of recording at several other speeds, including extreme high-quality modes that offer far less recording time (as little as one hour and five minutes) but much better audio resolution. The latter modes are more suitable for recording soft voices or when taking down complex song ideas--a process that's further assisted by the built-in stereo microphone designed to pick up all sides of a conversation with equal clarity.

The DS-2 is a breeze to use thanks to its straightforward front panel, from which users can quickly access or move files (the recorder comes with five folders, each capable of holding 199 files), set the alarm, or change the recording mode. Multitasking users will also delight in the voice activation function, which enables hands-free recording--a must when you're busy taking notes. Voice activation also saves battery life by powering off when no sound is detected. And when you just don't have time to attend to the details on the spot, you can set the DS-2 to record automatically over a fixed span. Simply enter the start and end times and the timer function is ready to go.

And though the DS-2 is primarily a recorder, the package comes with DSS Player software for editing and archiving files. The software offers a nice way to delete long silences, eliminate small talk, or combine two small but related passages into one large statement. Users can then transfer the files (they record in high-compression DSS and WMA formats) to a PC or Mac via the included USB docking station and cable. Once transferred, you can save them in perpetuity while freeing up the internal memory to record other interviews or meetings.

Additional features include a backlit LCD screen that shows the date, time, battery life, and more; 3.5 mm headphone and microphone jacks for added flexibility; and several basic and advanced playback options, including slow, fast, skip, and repeat. And best of all, the variety of functions come packed in a chassis that fits conveniently in your hand or pocket--quite unlike the bulky tape recorders of yesteryear. The DS-2, which also comes with a pair of earphones and a carrying case, runs for 18 hours on a single pair of AAA batteries (included) and carries a one-year warranty.

What's in the Box
DS-2 voice recorder, USB docking station, USB cable, stereo earphones, carrying case, DSS Player software CD, two AAA batteries, user's manual.

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