Olympus DS Series Digital Voice Recorders
The DS Series to date have been very high performance professional models. But Olympus recently released the Olympus DS-30, DS-40, and Olympus DS-50. These models have much more general purpose use.The new DS models have several applications bundled with them. The programs included are designed to make podcast downloads easy to perform, as well as synchronization with your computer. Podcasts are updated automatically each time the audio recorder is connected to or “synchronized” with a computer.
You can play audio to 44.1 kHz - which they have cleverly dubbed "Remarkable Stereo Sound Quality" mode - which is equal to the sound quality of most CDs The software included can automatically download audio books from Audible.com, and it actually works quite smoothly.
Depending on the model number, you can get storage capacity from 256MB, 512MB, and 1GB respectively. With the variable recording rate this means that you can get up to 275 hours of recording time - on one device.
The DS-Series have microphones that can detach from their bodies and attach to a remote controller (an optional accessory) to allow podcasters to clip the DS-Series microphone onto a shirt or tie and record in high fidelity at the flip of a switch.
The recorders have a speaker for audio playback on the back, buttons for recording and playback on the side, and "arrow pads" and buttons to scroll between menus on the screen. It also has a power on/off sliding switch so users do not accidentally turn it on.
Each model is powered by 2 AAA batteries which gives you up to two hours of continuous operation. In case the batteries go out on you, an AC Adapter is bundled with the device. All models have MP3 and WMA support. Other features include: MP3 and WMA support, Timer Recording mode,Variable Speed Playback, “Voice Guidance” function that talks, confirming which settings have been selected and helping visually challenged users to navigate the device. etc.
The Olympus DS-30, Olympus DS-40 and Olympus DS-50 became available in January 2007, bundled with stereo microphone, USB Cable, stereo earphones, a DSS Player Version 7 Software CD-ROM and two AAA-alkaline batteries. DS-50 additionally includes a remote control and carrying case.
U.S. Pricing at launch:
DS-30 Digital Voice Recorder Estimated Street Price: $149.99 (U.S.)
DS-40 Digital Voice Recorder Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (U.S.)
DS-50 Digital Voice Recorder Estimated Street Price: $249.99 (U.S.)
Compare that with the eBay auctions and deals listed below. Both used and new digital voice recorders are available:
With new Olympus DS digital voice recorders, accessories should include stereo microphone, USB Cable, stereo earphones, a DSS Player Version 7 Software CD-ROM and two AAA-alkaline batteries. DS-50 additionally includes a remote control and carrying case.