When it comes to digital voice recorders, two popular options on the market are the Olympus WS-853 and the Tascam DR-05X. Both devices are designed to capture high-quality audio, but they have distinct features, advantages, and disadvantages. In this comparison, we'll delve into the details of each product to help you decide which one best suits your needs.
Design and Build
The Olympus WS-853 has a sleek and compact design, weighing in at approximately 3.5 ounces. Its slim body makes it easy to carry in a pocket or purse, and its ergonomic shape fits comfortably in the hand. The device features a 1.7-inch color LCD screen, which provides clear visibility of menu options and audio levels.
In contrast, the Tascam DR-05X has a more rugged design, with a weight of around 4.2 ounces. Its larger body houses two built-in microphones and a more comprehensive set of controls, including dedicated buttons for record, play, and stop functions. The device also features a 1.7-inch color LCD screen, although it's slightly less vibrant than the Olympus model.
Audio Quality
Both digital voice recorders are capable of capturing high-quality audio, but they differ in their approach. The Olympus WS-853 uses a pair of directional microphones to pick up sound from the front and sides, resulting in a wider stereo image. It can record audio in WAV format at resolutions up to 24-bit/44.1kHz, making it suitable for music recordings, lectures, and interviews.
The Tascam DR-05X, on the other hand, employs two condenser microphones with a cardioid polar pattern, which provides excellent rejection of background noise and focuses on the sound source in front of the device. It can record audio in WAV format at resolutions up to 24-bit/96kHz, making it more suitable for professional applications such as field recording, podcasting, and film production.
Features
The Olympus WS-853 has a range of features that make it an excellent choice for everyday use. It includes a voice balancer function, which automatically adjusts the audio levels to ensure clear playback. The device also has a noise cancellation feature, which helps reduce background hiss and hum. Additionally, it comes with a built-in speaker, allowing you to play back recordings without needing external headphones.
The Tascam DR-05X, however, is more geared towards professional users. It features a range of advanced functions, including overdubbing, which allows you to layer multiple recordings on top of each other. The device also includes a built-in limiter, which prevents distortion and clipping during loud recordings. Furthermore, it has a lock function, which prevents accidental recording or playback.
Battery Life
The Olympus WS-853 has a battery life of up to 24 hours, depending on the recording mode and quality settings. It uses two AAA batteries, which are widely available and easy to replace.
In comparison, the Tascam DR-05X has a battery life of up to 17.5 hours, although this can be extended with the use of an external power source or rechargeable batteries. The device uses two AA batteries, which provide more power than AAA batteries but are also slightly larger.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Olympus WS-853 and the Tascam DR-05X are excellent digital voice recorders that cater to different needs and preferences. The Olympus model is ideal for everyday use, with its compact design, user-friendly interface, and range of features that make it perfect for lectures, interviews, and meetings.
The Tascam DR-05X, on the other hand, is geared towards professional users who require more advanced features and higher audio quality. Its rugged design, condenser microphones, and range of functions such as overdubbing and limiting make it an excellent choice for field recording, podcasting, and film production.
Ultimately, the choice between these two digital voice recorders depends on your specific needs and requirements. If you're looking for a compact and user-friendly device for everyday use, the Olympus WS-853 may be the better option. However, if you're a professional user who demands high-quality audio and advanced features, the Tascam DR-05X is definitely worth considering.
