SHOOTOUT PORTABLE FIELD RECORDERS FOSTEX Vs OLYMPUS Vs SONY
Big audio brands continue to bring versatile, feature-packed portable fi eld recorders to the market – but which one is right for your broadcast application? Audio expert David Davies puts three to the test.
Broadcast TECH
FOSTEX DC-R302
Price £799 exc VAT In brief Three-channel portable DSLR audio mixer/ stereo recorder Recording capability Stereo .WAV fi le in 16-bit (44.1/48kHz) or 24-bit (44.1/48/96kHz) Memory No internal memory; uses SDHC memory cards for storage Power 4 x AA batteries; AC adapter or equivalent Accessories (inc) Bracket for camera mounting Extras (optional) SC-302 carry case; AD15-3200 AC adapter Primary features The DC-R302 is a pro-stereo recorder incorporating an on-board three-channel pre- amp audio microphone/line mixer with XLR inputs. Designed for use with video-capable DSLRs – but also capable of acting as an independent recorder/mixer – the DC-R302 offers 48V phantom power for use with condenser mics, headphone monitoring and a ‘remote start’ function allowing the camera’s video recording to start/stop in sync with the ‘REC’ button. Design/build With an extruded aluminium chassis. the DC-R302 benefi ts from a clear, concise layout.
VERDICT Inherently user-friendly, the DC-R302 looks to be every inch the ‘road war- rior’ destined for years of demanding service.
OLYMPUS LS-100
Price £350 exc VAT In brief Professional multi-track recorder Recording capability Linear PCM in 24-bit (96kHz), MP3, BWF Memory 4GB plus SD(XC) slot Power Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery; USB con- necting AC adapter Accessories (inc) Li-Ion battery, AC adapter, USB converter and case Extras (optional) RS-30W wireless remote enabling distance control of the recording start/ stop/pause function Primary features Designed to suit a wide variety of broadcasting, music and production appli- cations, this versatile little recorder’s true stereo 90° microphone system is able to capture a maximum 140dB sound level. Multi-tracking capability allows users to record, edit, tweak and re-record multiple sound sources. Design/build As with the other recorders, the LS-100 is built to withstand the rigours of the road. A robust metal body features a microphone guard.
VERDICT Delivering 12 hours and 30 minutes of capture time without recharging, the LS-100 is a rather nifty recording solution whose specifi cation belies its low price point.
SONY PCM-D50
Price £462 exc VAT In brief Portable recorder equipped with two-position (X-Y or Wide) condenser stereo microphones Recording capability Standard .WAV fi le in 16- or 24-bit (44.1/48/96kHz) Memory 4GB plus Memory Stick Pro-HD Duo slot Power 4 x AA batteries; DC in 6V Accessories (inc) Sound Force Audio Suite LE audio editing and production software Extras (optional) Plenty – wired remote control, XLR mic input adapter, tripod stand, leather case, micro- phone windscreen Primary features Impressive signal processing capability includes a dual digital limiter function, a high-pass fi lter with selectable frequencies (150Hz or 75Hz) and SBM (Super Bit Mapping) noise- shaping. The spec also includes MP3 playback and digital pitch control. Design/build A chunky body and clear push-button layout are entirely in keeping with Sony’s enduring design aesthetic.
VERDICT In-built mics and a 14-hour recording capability (off four AA batteries) make this a highly attractive recording solution for journalists and musicians.
40 | Broadcast TECH | September/October 2012
Thanks to SCV London for the loan of the fi eld recorders
www.scvlondon.co.uk www.broadcastnow.co.uk/techfacils
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