NorthernHarrier
Well-known member
I was going to buy a Tascam DR-07X, but I've decided I need to start with something more pocketable. I am trying to choose between the Olympus LS-P4, which is mentioned a lot on these threads, and the Sony ICD-UX570, which is not. Does anyone have experience that would help me make my choice?
The Olympus costs $70 more in USD, has 8GB onboard memory, and takes up to a 32GB memory card. The Sony has only 4GB onboard memory, but takes much larger cards - the largest SDXC cards will work with it, according to reviews and Sony. Both products can reportedly zoom in on a subject somewhat, favoring sound to the front and center, even at a slight distance - which is an important feature I'm seeking.
The Sony records uncompressed PCM files only at 16bit quality, and MP3 up to 192kbps. The Olympus can record in 24bit FLAC format or 16bit PCM or 320kbps MP3. The Olympus seems better for recording quality on paper, but I’ve seen reviews raving about the recording quality of the sound on the Sony.
One other quibble: adjusting the recording level in the Sony requires stopping the recording process and changing settings. With the Olympus, recording level can be adjusted during recording or before recording, using the arrow buttons. That seems like a significant advantage of the Olympus product.
I'm not thrilled with the built-in USB port on both products, but will live with it. I feel the same way about the proprietary lithium battery in the Sony product. I'd rather have replaceable AAA or AA cells powering a recorder, but I will live with the lack of that feature.
Thanks for your help!
The Olympus costs $70 more in USD, has 8GB onboard memory, and takes up to a 32GB memory card. The Sony has only 4GB onboard memory, but takes much larger cards - the largest SDXC cards will work with it, according to reviews and Sony. Both products can reportedly zoom in on a subject somewhat, favoring sound to the front and center, even at a slight distance - which is an important feature I'm seeking.
The Sony records uncompressed PCM files only at 16bit quality, and MP3 up to 192kbps. The Olympus can record in 24bit FLAC format or 16bit PCM or 320kbps MP3. The Olympus seems better for recording quality on paper, but I’ve seen reviews raving about the recording quality of the sound on the Sony.
One other quibble: adjusting the recording level in the Sony requires stopping the recording process and changing settings. With the Olympus, recording level can be adjusted during recording or before recording, using the arrow buttons. That seems like a significant advantage of the Olympus product.
I'm not thrilled with the built-in USB port on both products, but will live with it. I feel the same way about the proprietary lithium battery in the Sony product. I'd rather have replaceable AAA or AA cells powering a recorder, but I will live with the lack of that feature.
Thanks for your help!
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