Digital Recorders

What should you look out for when buying a digital recorder?

There are a few things you should keep in mind when buying a digital recording device: Ideally, you should be able to find one that matches your actual needs exactly.

• The number of inputs is important, as is the kinds of signals they accept. Line‑level signals, microphone signals, maybe even instrument signals from bass and guitar?

• If there are built-in microphones, can they be swapped out?

• Can you also connect microphones that require 48V phantom power?

• How many tracks can be recorded at the same time?

• Does the manufacturer (or third party producers) offer accessories for this specific digital recorder?

• Some recorders have small built‑in speakers for quick monitoring.

• And of course, there are big differences when it comes to ease of use features – the display or control interface is perhaps most important here.

There are also various other things you should consider before buying a recorder: For example, which memory cards it accepts, or whether the device can run on standard batteries or rechargeable ones.

Alternatives to digital recorders

Are there alternatives to buying a digital recorder? Yes – instead of a dedicated digital recording device, there's range of other audio products that might also fit the bill.

Compact studios often look much like mixing desks anyway: So, instead of a multitrack compact studio, it might be worth looking at it the other way and considering a digital mixing desk that can also make recordings. There are many differences here: Some mixers can only record the combined stereo "sum" signal. But even mixers that offer multichannel recording almost never allow proper editing in the way compact studios do. That said, if your focus is mainly on recording and you prefer to do the rest of the work on a computer, this can be a viable alternative.

Audio interfaces are, of course, also an option, as many of them have recording capabilities. Or, conversely again: Almost all digital recorders – especially portable ones – can also be used as an audio interface with a computer.

Dedicated podcast recording studios are tailored to a very specific purpose: They're designed for connecting broadcast microphones. A special feature you'll often find here are pads: When pressed, they can trigger sound effects, applause, music jingles, or any other sounds you might like to assign yourself.

A niche category is microphones with built‑in recording functions. These devices are also known as recording microphones. In terms of functionality, they're ultimately not unlike digital recorders with microphones built in. However, they're very compact, look like standard handheld microphones, and can be used, for example, for interviews, reporting, or surveys.

What useful accessories can you buy for digital recorders?

• Memory cards are the medium almost always used for storing recordings.

• Tip: With large memory cards, make sure the recorder can actually use them. For multitrack projects and high sample rates (96 kHz, 192 kHz, etc.), check that they’re "fast" enough.

• Cables for connecting additional microphones or other signal sources. Alongside audio cables, you'll often need computer cables to connect the recorder to a Mac, mobile device, or PC. Sometimes these are included. Alternatively: a card reader for your computer.

• Clip‑on or interchangeable microphones: Some recorders can accept different stereo microphones or even shotgun mics via a dedicated connector.

• External microphones: depending on the task at hand, you can often connect exactly the microphones you need. From lapel mics for recording interviews with the recorder, to **large diaphragm studio mics for vocal or speech recording, right through to specialised mics such as bass drum microphones.

• Modules for additional inputs: with some devices, instead of a microphone, a small add‑on module can be used to provide extra inputs.

• Rechargeable batteries, standard batteries, power supplies: Depending on the device and its features, the right power accessories are essential.

• Windscreens for integrated or external microphones.

• Stands, if the recorder isn't being used as a handheld or on a table. Note: Many recorders use camera‑tripod threads, not microphone‑stand threads! Of course, there are inexpensive adapters available for this very eventuality.

• Headphones: To properly monitor what you're recording, it's best to use headphones. Tip: For outdoor or field recording, use closed‑back headphones!

• Cases or bags, to keep your recorder protected during transport. It's practical if there's space for accessories as well.