Ranking of the best portable audio recorders for 2022

Smartphones, which are always at hand, often act as sound recording devices. However, for high-quality memorization of audio files, it is still recommended to use specialized, digital equipment. Modern devices are able to independently slow down or speed up recording, eliminate noise and turn on when sound is detected. The process of choosing a popular model should be based on personal preferences and needs. If you plan to use the device a lot and often, then it is recommended to give preference to devices with a large amount of memory.

What is the difference between an audio recorder and a voice recorder

The market segment is extensive, but portable recorders are coming to replace the familiar voice recorder. Among the main differences, the following aspects should be highlighted:

Type of	Parameters/Description
Portable recorders	Advanced type devices that belong to the category of full-fledged multi-channel studio devices. Multifunction devices have 4-6 channels. More simple ones simultaneously work with two channels. The characteristic features of popular models include the presence of several voice recorders that allow you to record a signal of really high quality. Portable electronics are used for saving concerts and rehearsals, for video filming, as well as for work in the field (demo versions). As an auxiliary functionality, voice activation may be present.
Dictaphones	Devices with simpler characteristics that are used only to record voices. This should be paid attention to buyers who are just facing the choice of portable electronics of this type. Often used for voice notes, saving lectures and interviews. The best designs are placed in compact cases, and are characterized by colossal autonomy. Operates on a built-in battery or batteries. They are characterized by the presence of high computing power in the presence of relatively small built-in memory.

The world's best manufacturers of such equipment are considered to be Zoom, Sony, Olympus and Tascam. However, some products of Chinese and Russian production, which are also able to cope with the indicated functions, deserve attention. Based on the assortment on the market, it is quite easy to make a mistake when choosing. Among the many reviews and reviews, attention should be paid to recorders, which are characterized by a high operational life, a significant degree of reliability and an acceptable price.

What are they and which is better to buy a recorder for personal use? Before you purchase your favorite design, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the basic selection criteria that will help you choose the best option based on the designated budget. How much does such a device cost? Everything will depend on the functionality indicated by the manufacturer and the degree of brand advertising. There are a number of products on the market that can be used as flash drives. In most cases, it is possible to connect the device to a computer.

Audio Recorder Selection Criteria

In the process of choosing one or another equipment, one should take into account some characteristics that will be distinctive for each of the goods under consideration.

It should be noted that the recorder and voice recorder are completely different devices, although they serve to record sound. The latter are used for interviews, saving lectures and voice messages.

The functionality of voice recorders is more than modest. The recorders are a multi-channel and multi-functional portable studio, the number of recording channels in which can be 4-6 units. This allows the data to be stored in stereo format.

Audio clip quality

Audio recorders belong to the category of professional equipment that allows you to digitize sounds with a high sampling rate and bit depth. In most cases, if the device does not belong to the budget category, it will support a frequency of 48/96 kHz and have a bit depth of 24 bits (inclusive). For new products from China (AliExpress), the frequency indicator can reach 192 kHz.

According to buyers, it is better to give preference to designs that save videos in the "mp3" format, however, according to experts, working with "wav" is much easier. The quality of the fixed clip can be adjusted manually, depending on the size of the memory card used and personal preferences. Allowed setting:

• 1-96 kHz/16-24bit wav format;
• 32-320 kbps.

It should be noted that in the case of choosing a recorder, the size will matter. The smaller the body of the product, the worse the recording quality will be. This is due to the fact that in order to maintain compact dimensions, manufacturers use lower-quality filling and components.

Memory

Even inexpensive products are designed for long-term audio recording in a good format. Multi-channel files take up a lot of device memory, so they are additionally equipped with slots for such memory cards:

• micro Secure Digital;
• memory stick;
• compact flash.

Depending on the functionality of the device, memory card slots are made for 32/64 GB. This volume is enough to create a two-hour file. If the MB is not enough, then the card is changed to another external memory.

Specifications

What is the best recorder to buy? Attention is paid to the following aspects:

1. Microphone type and sensitivity.The parameter shows the output voltage at a certain sound pressure and frequency.
2. Nutrition, weight and dimensions. In addition to the internal filling, it should be understood that the device will be worn in the hands for a long time. The case should be light and ergonomic. The issue of nutrition has several hidden features. During operation, the unit can use both the energy of batteries, its own battery, and a separate power supply via a USB cable. We advise you not to buy very outdated models that, after the end of the charge, may not save tracks. That is why many online stores where you can order recorders online prescribe such information in the specifications.
3. The maximum value of the available sound pressure. The higher the indicator declared by the manufacturer, the louder the recording will be. Perceived by the microphone of the recorder itself. Measurements are taken in decibels.
4. Upper frequencies and their filter. They help to filter out some sounds that are lower than the declared frequency. Thus, the manufacturer managed to significantly improve the sound quality of the track, eliminating the risk of hum.

Channels and their number

When choosing a recorder, the number of connectors on the case deserves special attention. Even in inexpensive models, you can identify a line-out and an input that will allow you to connect not only headphones, but also a microphone. The abundance of auxiliary channels will allow you to connect external microphones, and not use only the built-in ones. Thus, it will be possible to store the stereo signal, ambient sounds and several speakers at the same time.

In modern models, you can find XLR / TLR connectors, which are used to deal with high resistance.

There are professional models on the market, which are characterized by the presence of interchangeable microphones (capsules). In this case, the user is given the following options:

1. Mid-side capsule. An excellent solution for those users who plan to work with interviews that will involve several people at the same time. The device is equipped with a bidirectional and cardioid microphone. The coverage declared by the manufacturer reaches 360 °.
2. Diverse fixtures by x/y type. An excellent assistant for those who plan to save concerts, matinees and festive events. The maximum amount of sound remains in the central part, which allows you to achieve a stunning width of the girth.
3. Gun microphone. It is often used by students and those who are frequent visitors to various trainings and advanced training courses. The device belongs to the category of the most directed, therefore, in the process of operation, it must be manually “aimed” at the selected sound source.

Auxiliary functionality

1. There are a number of models on the market that are equipped with built-in batteries and impressive internal memory. They belong to the category of professional devices, the average price of which corresponds to the designated functionality.
2. Have your own speaker. Allows you to listen to the saved material immediately after the end of the manipulations. You don't have to wait for good quality, but this is a real opportunity to check whether what you need has been recorded.
3. Display. Thanks to a compact but very necessary add-on, the user can configure the device, track the charge level and the duration of the current song. The menu will depend on the designated functionality.
4. Sound processing effect.If the user has a professional model of an audio recorder in his hands, then with its help a person will be able to apply dynamic and spatial effects, adjust the equalizer, apply a compressor or reverb option. Thus, the save can be processed immediately after its appearance.
5. Auto-on option. If there is an intensive sound recording function, the device will automatically start creating a file at the moment when someone's voices or noises appear in the immediate vicinity.
6. Also, recorders can be equipped with a number of additional "proprietary" chips, depending on the personal preferences of manufacturers.

Rating of high-quality and inexpensive portable audio recorders

Tascam DR-05

One of the best representatives of portable audio recorders in terms of price / quality ratio. An affordable product that is affordable for almost every domestic consumer. Produced in the USA. One of the best models is considered due to the receipt of an ideal file in terms of sound characteristics, which is characterized by deep sound. The device is able to capture any nuances that surround it. Special attention deserves more than a hundred levels of sensitivity, which can be adjusted manually.

Built-in microphones are used, which are considered an excellent solution for creating a file in any situation. Files are created in pcm, wav and mp3 format. For production, high-quality materials are used that do not correspond to this price segment. The case belongs to the category of protected, therefore it is able to survive a fall from a small height. In this case, the speakers will not suffer, which will allow you to use the device for many years. The built-in speaker delivers clear sound.To get a more accurate picture, it is recommended to use headphones. The display has a nice backlight.

You can buy goods from one of the best companies on the market at a price of 11,500 rubles.

• deep sound;
• display;
• operational period;
• file quality;
• ergonomics;
• price-quality ratio.

• not identified.

Zoom H1n

The Japanese build quality says a lot, and, first of all, about the quality of the device and its high operational life. The model belongs to the professional category, despite the cost. The bestseller entered the market at the end of 2019 and is still in high demand among buyers. Over time, the design has undergone some changes, as well as the declared functionality. Microphone capsules are arranged in a standard configuration - XY, which is typical for the products of this manufacturer.

The maximum pressure indicator reaches 120 Hz, which will allow you to keep pleasant memories after visiting a rock festival. The quality of the file will be high in any situation, whether it's a noisy lecture or a performance by your favorite band.

Among the auxiliary functionality, it should be noted the presence of a proprietary application Wavelab and Cubase, for the use of which the company has a corresponding license. There is also a function of multi-layer recording, slowing down speech during the operation of the device. Due to the presence of a special tripod thread, the device can be mounted on a video camera. The voice acting of the video will be of the highest quality.

How much does the kit cost? The purchase will cost 12,700 rubles.

• autostart option;
• auxiliary recording modes;
• phonography function;
• tripod thread;
• speaker on the front.

• not identified.

Olympus LS-P1

The device is used to work on different sound platforms. We are talking about spacious auditoriums and comfortable meeting rooms. It has 4 GB of internal memory, but it is possible to install an auxiliary card. There is an opportunity to work with mp3 format. You can also create a file in the pcm format, which is extremely convenient for the subsequent processing of new information. The microphone sensitivity is set manually. To do this, there are several auxiliary options. It is also possible to activate by voice.

How much does the device cost? The purchase will cost 14300 rubles.

• file indexing and convenient search;
• built-in equalizer;
• setting sound modes;
• autonomy (up to 39 hours in operation mode);
• the allowable index of bit depth and frequency of discretion is 24 and 96;
• 60-20000 Hz declared playback frequency;
• the presence of an organizer;
• AAA batteries are used for power supply;
• the ability to create folders for storage (no more than 5 pieces);
• the total duration of the files is 123 hours without the need for data transfer;
• two channels (stereo sound effect).

• not identified.

Zoom H2n

A time-tested portable recorder from a well-known Japanese manufacturer. It is characterized by high build quality and a long service life. The cost is higher compared to the previously described model, however, despite this, the device is in deserved demand, both among students and journalists. The quality of the recorded material will be high regardless of the location of the device.

In addition to a number of proprietary options and programs, the ability to edit files due to the presence of a monochrome display deserves attention.A characteristic feature of the popular model is considered to be the presence of five microphone capsules. Due to this, it becomes possible to work in four modes and a coverage of 360 °.

Cost - 17700 rubles.

• monochrome type display;
• Japanese assembly;
• operational period;
• five microphone capsules;
• various recording / playback modes.

• not identified.

Rating of professional-grade portable audio recorders

Tascam DR-40X

On the top of the structure are four condenser-type microphones at once. This will allow the user to record four channels. It should be noted that they can be rotated towards each other or spread apart. This will allow the user to pick up sound from four different directions. The presence of several recording options is noted: two or four-channel recording, with overdub (overdub), stereo and mono. Among other features, the product is equipped with a display and LED sensor, which makes it convenient to use.

Compact version compared to previous models. Characterized by increased autonomy. You will need two AA batteries to operate. In the set you can find a branded remote control. It also notes the presence of a buffer of 5 seconds of pre-recording. It is possible to support memory cards such as M2 and SD, in addition to their own 4 GB. You can buy the design only in the secondary market, as it has been withdrawn from sale.

Cost - 21,000 rubles.

• four built-in microphones;
• comes with a remote control;
• autonomy;
• ease of use;
• compact dimensions.

• out of production.

Zoom H4N Pro

Without a doubt, the model should be classified as a bestseller, which only strengthened its position over the previous year. It appeared on the market more than 10 years ago, but it is still an indispensable attribute of many fans of this brand. It is based on the use of XY microphones, which are used to record high-quality stereo. There is also the possibility of multitracking and four-channel recording. Without compression, the performance will be 16/24 bit 44.1/48/96 kHz. In mp3 format, 48/320 kbt or VBR will be recorded.

The model allows you to use only the built-in microphones, or connect external equipment. If necessary, there is a slot for expanding memory by 2-32 GB. SDHC and SD format. The convenient LCD display is responsible for user adjustment. You will need two AA batteries for operation, which guarantee continuous use for 6 hours. The built-in filters, tuner and metronome deserve special attention. The version turned out to be more advanced than its “light” counterpart.

Cost - 26200 rubles.

• functional;
• autonomy;
• the ability to install memory cards;
• user settings;
• option to connect external microphones;
• four channel recording.

• not identified.

Tascam DR-44WL

Based on the functionality declared by the manufacturer, the device is capable of operating with a range of 40,000 Hz inclusive, which is considered an excellent indicator. To connect external microphones, use the appropriate connectors located on the case. You can manually adjust the sensitivity of the microphones, which will eliminate the risk of extraneous noise against the background.The preferred recording quality is also user selectable. Phantom power is used, which is responsible for intermittent power and signal transmission directly to the recorder. Line-out and input will allow you to connect to other equipment, which will make it possible to reduce the time allotted for file transfer to a minimum. There is a possibility to control the device via smartphone.

Cost - 28500 rubles.

• power indicator of 300 mW;
• high-quality power adapter;
• maximum bit depth 24/96;
• stereo recording;
• work with BWF, WAV, MP format

• not identified.

Zoom H6

The price range of products of this brand is large. It should be noted that the cost of the model is quite reasonable, in connection with the declared characteristics. Large and expensive design, which is similar in function to the H5 model. The weight of the product is 280 g. Despite the bulky and even masculine design, the device allows for eight-channel recording. In addition, the user, if necessary, can make adjustments to files directly from the recorder without the need to connect to third-party devices.

Cost - 36900 rubles.

• eight tracks;
• functional;
• autonomy;
• ease of use;
• the ability to edit records.

• not identified.

TASCAM DR-100 MKII

In fact, this is a kind of analogue of the model described above. The difference is the design of the device, and the functionality provided by the manufacturer. There are four built-in microphones, two of which are turned to the sides, and the rest are turned forward. The preamps used are powerful, unlike earlier models of the brand.Due to this, the device can cope with the recording of lower sounds. To connect specialized multimedia and sound recording equipment, the corresponding connectors located on the case are used.

The characteristic features include the ability to charge from USB. It is also possible to use AA batteries. The recording is in the format:

• MP3 - 32/320 kb/s;
• WAV - 16/24 bit;
• VBR.

Cost - 48100 rubles.

• in the process of searching for files, the scanning method is used;
• phantom power support;
• four inputs for microphones;
• voice activation;
• 24/96 sampling rates and bit depth;
• batteries are included;
• linear transmission;
• manual adjustment;
• connection to external media is possible;
• two stereo channels.

• 2 hours of continuous work.

Conclusion

The functionality of portable recorders is difficult to overestimate, since they are used to record sounds of different directions. Unlike voice recorders familiar to many, including telephone counterparts, audio recorders produce first-class sound. Such functions will be useful not only in the process of interviewing and attending lectures, but also recording concerts and entertainment events. The devices have excellent sensitivity, so they are able to pick up different frequencies and record them without subsequent distortion. The cost of gadgets is formed on the basis of such important aspects that are prescribed by all, without exception, manufacturers:

1. Design memory.
2. Operating time without the need for recharging.
3. The number of channels used simultaneously.
4. The number of microphones that can be connected to the recorder.
5. The number of channels to use at the same time.

Mains power support is also considered an important selection criterion, as it will allow for timely recharging in case of prolonged operation. If you want to record a concert or other event that will last several hours, then you will need a portable battery or a capacious internal battery. This is the only way to guarantee that the device will not turn off at the most unexpected moment. Phantom power is present only in professional models and is a guarantee that after turning off the recordings will be saved on an external or internal drive.