Audio recorder12/27/2023 ![]() ![]() As with many recorders, the MixPre-3 is geared towards journalists and sound producers, so many of the options for mixing and USB audio are not applicable to typical field recording, but neither do they get in the way of the key functionality. ![]() The sound quality is excellent, and the XLR inputs and phantom power allow use of a wide variety of external microphones. Once the menus settings are configured, operation is smooth and simple, with record and stop buttons and gain controls all positioned conveniently on the top of the unit. The large, colorful LCD touch-screen is pretty and easy to see in the field, and the vertical alignment when in a field case is a big plus. Its compact size and simplified menus, as well as more reasonable price tag, gives it an advantage over Sound Device’s other popular recorders. The MixPre-3 is proving to be an excellent unit for recording birds and other natural sounds. ![]() Portability versus function and quality are important factors to consider when choosing a recorder. Some small recorders don’t work well in a field case and must be hand-held or mounted directly on a strap or lanyard. Most larger recorders have custom-fitted field cases available from a variety of manufacturers. Field caseĪ properly fitting case can protect the recorder as well as make it easier to use in the field. Consider using an external lithium rechargeable batteries for recorders that are less efficient. Some recorders use more power than others, so battery life in the field can be a major factor. External lithium rechargeable batteries can dramatically increase record time but add weight to the recording set-up. Internal rechargeable batteries save money but are harder to replace. The ability to take AA batteries adds flexibility to power options. The size of brightness of the screen as well as the prominence of the level meter can affect how well you can operate the machine. Screen visibilityīeing able to see the screen in the field is important. In some situations, this can mean saving the beginning of an important recording that might otherwise have started too late. Often this is limited to 2 seconds, though some recorders allow for higher values. If engaged, a pre-record buffer allows a few seconds of audio to be recorded before pressing the record button. ![]() Some newer recorders offer 32-bit recording that gives you an even greater range of amplitude and simplifies the level-setting process. At least 24-bit and 48 kHz are preferred, and 96kHz sample rate or higher may be required depending on what you are trying to record. Similarly, bit depth determines the range of amplitude you can record and sample rate determines the range of frequency. The ability to record uncompressed (.WAV) files is very important in capturing high-quality natural sounds see our Why WAV page for more information. Only recorders with XLR inputs can provide this type of power. Phantom power, the ability to power a microphone through the cable, can be helpful and is required for some microphones that do not have their own power source. They are also required to power many microphones (see next paragraph). Three-pin XLR connections are less prone to outside interference from cell phones or radio towers, as well as being more robust, than unbalanced connections through 3.5mm mini plugs. The quality of materials and construction can be very important on a machine you plan to use extensively in the field. Consider the layout of the recorder in its field case as well. Recorder’s microphone preamplifier performanceĬleaner pre-amps result in better recordings Layout of controlsīeing able to quickly press Record or adjust record level is key in field settings, so be sure to consider this when choosing a recorder. Check out our Gear Review page for some options. Still, some recorders are a better value for your money. Audio recording Built-in microphone: 2 omni-directional microphones for stereo recording Signal-to-noise ratio: 58 db Recording formats: MPEG1 layer 3 (MP3), PCM (WAV) Recording quality: MP3 (8, 32, 64, 96, 128, 192, 256, 320 kbps), PCM (22 kHz/16 bit, 44.1 kHz/16 bit, 48 kHz/16 bit) Audio scenes: Note, Speech recognition, Interview, Lecture, Meeting, Music, Custom Recording time (built-in memory): 2147 h (MP3, 8 kbps), 536 h (MP3, 32 kbps), 268 h (MP3, 64 kbps), 178 h (MP3, 96 kbps), 134 h (MP3, 128 kbps), 89 h (MP3, 192 kbps), 67 h (MP3, 256 kbps), 53 h (MP3, 320 kbps), 24 h (PCM, 22 kHz/16 bit), 12 h (PCM, 44.A digital sound recorder is an investment, and the more you invest the better quality recordings you will be able to make. ![]()
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