Several External Audio Devices Compared

R

rubberbandito

Active member
Here is a good website that lists several audio devices including the H4n that everyone seems to love around here. It has samples of all of the devices including when they hook up a Rode Mic and other mics. I use only 3.5mm inputs, not XLR, so I don't need the H4n. I went for the Olypus LS 10 over the Zoom H2 which seemed good but a little hissy. I will probably mount it on top of my GH1 since it has a tripod thread. I will get a hot shoe adapter with tripod thread. I guess they make them. If not I will ajimmy rig one.

Here is the site with samples. http://www.wingfieldaudio.com/portable-recorder-sound-samples.html Go to the main product page to see the reviews.

I got the LS 10 for $220, much less then the H4n. I also got a windjammer on ebay for $20. MSRP is $50 on those.
 
The Zoom H2 is a good alternative and can be found for around $160. My personal choice is the Tascam DR-07. I like to couple it with a Beachtek DXA-6HD for when I need to use XLR mics.
 
The Zoom H2 is more versatile than the Olly and can be modded into a four track recorder, the Fostex FR2LE has better sound, phantom power and balanced connectors.
 
I use the Edirol R-09HR with an XLR-Pro. 24bit, 96kHz...with the HR mounted on the camera via a Manfrotto 482LCD ball head/hot shoe mount, the built in stereo mics on the Edirol sound very nice for close up work.
 
Dr Dave, what do u mean by modded into a 4 track recorder? The olly can't? I plan to put my mini mixer into the line in and connect to lav mics and one wireless to the mixer. Sorry for my ignorance but explanation would be awesome.
 
the H4n is great for musicians because i guess it doubles as an audio interface, which i've never owned but a friend of mine has a toneport ux1 and the recording quality of his songs are very impressive! now that's what i can versatile!
 
The Olympus only records one stereo track. H4n does one stereo track from the internal mics and one stereo track from the external inputs which can be treated as 2 mono tracks. I've seen sound engineers use the H4n internal mics for room ambience and the two inputs for close-up voice recording so they can balance in post between the three sources instead of having to live mix in the field.

It's funny with electronics and international pricing, here in Sweden I can get hold of the H4n for $375 plus VAT which is 75% of the lowest price I've found for the Olympus.
 
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