The WS-300M features five separate file folders capable of holding 199 files each, so you can organize nearly 1,000 files by subject, theme, or other categories. Users also have the choice of four recording modes: HQ, which minimizes background noise and is great for recording people with low speaking voices; LP and SP modes that offer extended recording times; and the unique Stereo HQ mode, which makes two-channel recordings. And thanks to the voice activation option, users don't need to press a single button to start recording. The WS-300M will instead record as soon as the built-in microphone picks up sound.

Perhaps the most convenient feature, however, is the built-in USB connector. To attach the WS-300M to a PC, all you need to do is remove one end of the recorder's body, which reveals a male USB plug. This USB Direct design eliminates the need for a USB cable (the male plug connects directly to your computer), making the device even more portable. Once connected, you can download music files, images, or documents, in effect turning the recorder into a small hard drive, or you can transfer voice recordings to your computer for storage or multimedia use.

The unit also offers built-in WOW sound enhancement to produce rich, three-dimensional audio with a nice bass component. Additional audio improvements include a user-selectable equalizer that lets you tailor the sound to your taste or environment, along with Olympus's innovative noise-canceling technology, which makes the audio even clearer by removing unwanted hiss and background noise. You can even adjust the built-in stereo microphone's recording level to meet your needs.

Every bit as important are the playback functions, which include fast (50 percent) and slow (25 percent) playback, random play, and repeat play. And should you need to identify and quickly retrieve important sound bites, all you need to do is insert an index mark and refer to it later. Additional features include a locking function, which keeps important data from being erased; an easy-to-read, backlit, full-dot LCD; and a pair of stereo headphones.

What's in the Box
WS-300M digital voice recorder, stereo earphone, one AAA battery, USB cable, user's manual.


Take it here, there and anywhere. The compact brushed silver WS-300M is equipped with 256MB of internal memory for up to 68 hours of recording time and stores up to 120 music tracks. Users can enjoy a great sense of freedom, not being bound by cables, docking station or special software, simply plug directly into any PC and you are ready to upload and download your files as you choose.



Technical details:
Compact, high-quality digital voice recorder with 256 MB internal flash memory
Records up to 68 hours of WMA audio; built-in music player stores up to 66 WMA or MP3 files
USB Direct design plugs directly into PC USB port; 4 recording modes (HQ, LP, SP, and HQ Stereo)
5 separate file folders with 199 files each; voice activation mode enables hands-free recording
Runs for roughly 15 hours on 1 AAA battery; 1.5 x 3.73 x 0.43 inches (W x H x D); 1-year warranty





Olympus VN2100PC Digital Voice Recorder

Product description:

Olympus VN2100PC "PC Downloadable" digital voice recorder with 36 hour recording time


A cool white finish surrounds this compact, take-anywhere voice recorder with 36 hours of continuous recording time and a large LCD that displays recording status, battery life and more. File management and other options is an cinch with the easy-to-use menu. Features like Voice Activation and Timer Recording give you the flexibility to just sit back and relax. Enjoy a staggering 35 hours and 50 minutes of continuous recording time in LP mode with 64MB of internal flash memory. Large LCD for easy viewing of file locations, recording status and battery life Slow and Fast Playback modes let you listen to audio 25 percent slower or 50 percent faster than real time Four folders and each folder stores up to 100 files Easy file management functions allow you to erase single files, multiple files as well as transfer files Voice activation extends recording time by recording only when the microphone senses sound Index marks let you specify a particular point in a recording or playback for easy retrieval Recording Format - CELP+ADPCM Recording Media - Built-in 64MB flash memory Recording Time - 2 hours 50 minutes in XHQ mode 5 hours, 50 minutes in HQ mode 11 hours, 40 minutes in SP mode 35 hours, 50 minutes in LP mode Voice Activation Available & Switchable On/Off Practical Maximum Output 120 mW Speaker 28 mm diameter round dynamic speaker Microphone & Earphone Jack and output Power Supply - 2 AAA batteries Battery Life - Approximately 25 hours System Requirements - Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional, XP Professional, Home Edition, CPU Intel Pentium 166MHz or faster 32MB RAM Minimum, Sound Board Creative Labs Sound Blaster 16 or 100% compatible card, Video Card and Display Min. 800 x 600 pixels, min. 256 colors, 2x CD-ROM, USB Port At least 1 free USB port Dimensions - Length 4.0 x Width 1.54 x Depth 0.77 inch Weight - 2.22 ounces (68.0 grams)



Technical details:
36 hours of recording time
XHQ Extra high quality recording mode also HQ, SP & LP modes
Timer Recording
Timer Playback
25 Hours battery life






Sony ICDP320 - 64MB Digital Voice Recorder w/ PC conectivity

Product description:
From the manufacturer
The thin and stylish ICDP320 Digital Voice Recorder is great for digital recording on the go. Whether you're at school, in a meeting or on the road, this high capacity voice recorder will be a handy companion. With a 64MB Flash Memory IC chip and up to 32 hours of Recording Time in LP Mode, you can rest assured knowing your digital voice recorder will be ready when you are. The single function buttons on the front allow you to easily record your subject over and over again with distortion-free clarity. Convenient features such as the large LCD display for showing recording data and 250mW speaker output make seeing data and listening to audio a breeze.

Features

Compatible with Dragon NaturallySpeaking Preferred Voice to Print Software: Converts words to text, simply by speaking! Use your DVR or speak directly into a microphone attached to your computer and watch your words instantly appear in documents, spreadsheets, e-mail letters, instant messages and chat rooms. You can even surf the Web by speaking!

Compact Slim Design: A slim design means it is easier then ever to have a recorder on hand to capture the next great idea

Up to 32 Hours, 10 minutes of Recording Time in LP Mode Available on the integrated circuit chip which may be recorded over and used again.

Digital Voice Up Recording: Enhances the clarity and volume of the person speaking even when they are across the room.

Digital VOR (Voice Operated Recording): Stops the recording during silent pauses, saving valuable recording time, then begins recording again without missing a single syllable thanks to the digital buffer.

Recording Mode - 16kHz (19.2Kbps): Up to 7 Hours 20 Minutes Recording Time Provides a clearer recording of meetings, interviews, or dictation.

Single Function Buttons on the Front Make the Unit Easier to Use: Ergonomic buttons make controlling the unit easier then ever by putting all the buttons where they can be easily accessed.

64MB Flash Memory: Uses a high capacity IC chip, which may be recorded over and used again and again, with distortion-free clarity.

Large Easy-to-Read LCD Display Shows number of messages recorded, recording length, date, time, and battery power remaining.

250mW Speaker Output: Provides increased speaker output.

Add-Recording Function allows you to insert and add additional information to any message without affecting the original.

USB 2.0 Compatible: Provides high speed transfer of files and folders to your PC.

Sony's worldwide reputation for creating unique, attractive, high-quality, advanced technology products rests on a long line of innovations embraced by people from all walks of life. With a diverse product lineup serving a variety of lifestyles and industries, Sony continuously strives to introduce new products and technologies to meet changing market needs.PRODUCT FEATURES:Stylish and compact design;64MB built-in flash memory;PC link capability with Digital Voice Editing software supplied;Up to 1930 minutes recording capacity;4 separate folders for easy reference.





Technical details:
Digital Voice Editor software included
Up to 32 hours recording time (LP Mode)
4 Folders
Digital VOR
Large LCD display






Olympus VN-960PC 128 MB Digital Voice Recorder with PC Link

Product description:

No matter where you are, the VN-960PC is a reliable companion. It ensures your notes and ideas won't be lost forever. A fast USB connection allows for hassle-free downloading of files to a PC for archiving or further processing. Its handy scheduler function with alarm facility also helps you manage your time more effectively. This digital voice recorder provides capacity for more than 16 hours of recordings and stores up to 100 files in each of its four folders for easy organization.



Technical details:
16 hours recording time
PC compatible through direct USB PC link
Three recording modes with four folders
Fast/slow playback with jog-dial navigation
25 hours of recording/play on 2 AAA batteries (included)






Olympus VN2100 Digital Voice Recorder

Product description:

Olympus VN2100 digital voice recorder with 36 hour recording time


A cool white finish surrounds this compact, take-anywhere voice recorder with 36 hours of continuous recording time and a large LCD that displays recording status, battery life and more. File management and other options is an cinch with the easy-to-use menu. Features like Voice Activation and Timer Recording give you the flexibility to just sit back and relax. Enjoy a staggering 35 hours and 50 minutes of continuous recording time in LP mode with 64MB of internal flash memory. Large LCD for easy viewing of file locations, recording status and battery life Slow and Fast Playback modes let you listen to audio 25 percent slower or 50 percent faster than real time Four folders and each folder stores up to 100 files Easy file management functions allow you to erase single files, multiple files as well as transfer files Voice activation extends recording time by recording only when the microphone senses sound Index marks let you specify a particular point in a recording or playback for easy retrieval Use the timer recording option to set a start and end time for a particular recording Playback a pre-selected file at a specific time for reminders or wake-up calls Recording Format - CELP+ADPCM Recording Media - Built-in 64MB flash memory Recording Time - 2 hours 50 minutes in XHQ mode 5 hours, 50 minutes in HQ mode 11 hours, 40 minutes in SP mode 35 hours, 50 minutes in LP mode Sampling Frequency - XHQ/HQ 16.0kHz, SP 12.0kHz, LP 7.00kHz Overall Frequency Response - XHQ/HQ - 300-7200Hz, SP 300-5400Hz, LP 300-3100Hz Voice Activation Available & Switchable On/Off Practical Maximum Output 120 mW Speaker 28 mm diameter round dynamic speaker Microphone & Earphone Jack and output Power Supply - 2 AAA batteries Battery Life - Approximately 25 hours Dimensions - Length 4.0 x Width 1.54 x Depth 0.77 inch Weight - 2.22 ounces (68.0 grams)



Technical details:
36 hours of recording time
XHQ Extra high quality recording mode also HQ, SP & LP modes
Timer Recording
Timer Playback
27 Hours battery life






Olympus WS-320M 1 GB Digital Voice Recorder and Music Player

Product description:

Slim, attractive, and highly functional, the Olympus WS-320M digital voice recorder packs 1 GB of internal flash memory into its lightweight housing, letting you record up to 277 hours of high-quality audio in WMA format. It's ideal for recording notes or long lectures, interviewing sources for an upcoming story, or capturing spur-of-the-moment song ideas before they disappear into the air. As an added bonus, the WS-320M can store up to 266 WMA or MP3 songs for high-quality stereo playback, letting you listen to your favorite tunes between (or during) classes or while waiting in line at the DMV. All this in a tiny body that measures 1.5 inches wide by 3.73 inches tall--roughly the size of a pack of gum.

The WS-320M features five separate file folders capable of holding 199 files each, so you can organize nearly 1,000 files by subject, theme, or other categories. Users also have the choice of four recording modes: HQ, which minimizes background noise and is great for recording people with low speaking voices; LP and SP modes that offer extended recording times; and the unique Stereo HQ mode, which makes two-channel recordings. And thanks to the voice activation option, users don't need to press a single button to start recording. The WS-320M will instead record as soon as the built-in microphone picks up sound.

Perhaps the most convenient feature, however, is the built-in USB connector. To attach the WS-320M to a PC or Mac, all you need to do is remove one end of the recorder's body, which reveals a male USB plug. This USB Direct design eliminates the need for a USB cable (the male plug connects directly to your computer), making the device even more portable. Once connected, you can download music files, images, or documents, in effect turning the recorder into a small hard drive, or you can transfer voice recordings to your computer for storage or multimedia use.

The unit also offers built-in WOW sound enhancement to produce rich, three-dimensional audio with a nice bass component. Additional audio improvements include a user-selectable equalizer that lets you tailor the sound to your taste or environment, along with Olympus's innovative noise-canceling technology, which makes the audio even clearer by removing unwanted hiss and background noise. You can even adjust the built-in stereo microphone's recording level to meet your needs.

Every bit as important are the playback functions, which include fast (50 percent) and slow (25 percent) playback, random play, and repeat play. And should you need to identify and quickly retrieve important sound bites, all you need to do is insert an index mark and refer to it later. Additional features include a locking function, which keeps important data from being erased; an easy-to-read, backlit, full-dot LCD; and a pair of stereo headphones.

What's in the Box
WS-320M digital voice recorder, stereo earphone, one AAA battery, USB cable, user's manual.


Stay organized and on the move with this high-class storage device and powerful music player. The easy USB input lets you plug the WS-320M right into the computer for fast results. And up to 266 songs can be stored and played in stereo sound with track and artist name clearly displayed on the LCD. Never be hindered from recording audio, notes, lectures and more with up to 277 hours of available recording time. Nothing is faster than plugging it right into the USB port on a computer to download or upload files with USB Direct design. USB Direct design means you can connect it right to the USB port on your computer. Use the Voice Activation mode and record sound via the built-in microphone without ever lifting a finger Locate important sound bites quickly and easily by inserting index marks where desired Adjust the microphone sensitivity to set the recorder Supports music files in MP3 and WMA WOW audio technology provides rich bass and 3-dimensional stereo sound during music playback Use the Equalizer Setting for the best possible sound Recording Media - Built-in 1GB flash memory Recording Time - HQ Mode approximately 70 hour 50 minutes, SP Mode approximately 139 hours 30 minutes, LP Mode approximately 277 hours 20 minutes Sampling Frequency Stereo - HQ 44.1kHz, SP 22.0kHz, LP 8.0kHz Overall Frequency Response Stereo - HQ 100-15000Hz, HQ 100-12000Hz, SP 100-5000Hz, LP 100-3000Hz Voice Activation Available, Switchable On & Off Practical Maximum Output - 70 mW Speaker - Built-in 18 mm round dynamic speaker Power Supply - 1 AAA battery Battery Life - Approximately 15 hours System Requirements - Microsoft Windows ME, 2000 Professional, XP Professional, Home Edition, USB Port One free port, Audio Output Earphone or Speakers Dimensions - Length 3.73 x Width 1.50 x Depth 0.43 (excluding protrusions) Weight - 1.62 ounces (46 gram) including battery



Technical details:
Compact, high-quality digital voice recorder with 1 GB internal flash memory
Records up to 277 hours of WMA audio; built-in music player stores up to 266 WMA or MP3 files
USB Direct design plugs directly into PC or Mac's USB port; 4 recording modes (HQ, LP, SP, and HQ Stereo)
5 separate file folders with 199 files each; voice activation mode enables hands-free recording
Runs for roughly 15 hours on 1 AAA battery; 1.5 x 3.73 x 0.43 inches (W x H x D); 1-year warranty






Olympus VN-1000 Digital Voice Recorder

Product description:

The pocket-sized recorder is sleek in style and sleek in performance with up to more than 16 hours of continuous recording capability. The easy to use thumbpad makes for quick and convenient operation of functions like file management, choosing playback and recording modes and more while timer recoding and voice activation provide versatility. Enjoy the convenience of up to 1000 minutes of uninterrupted recording time in LP mode with 32MB of internal flash memory. Manage and store all of your audio files into four separate folders for easy organization and retrieval. Use the simple index marking function to accurately mark a specific point during recording or playback for quick location. Set up a specific period to record by easily setting the beginning and end times for audio. Three folders up to 100 files each while a fourth folder lets you record reminders Easy file management functions include single file erase, folder deletion, and file transfer Voice activation extends recording time by recording only when the microphone senses sound Index marks let you specify a particular point in a recording or playback for easy retrieval Use timer recording option to set a start and end time for a particular recording Recording Format - Triple Rate Coder Recording Media - Built-in 32MB Flash Memory Recording Time - 3 hours 30 minutes in HQ mode, 7 hours 20 minutes in SP mode, 16 hours 40 minutes in LP mode Sampling Frequency - HQ 16.0kHz, SP 10.6kHz, LP 8.00kHz Overall Frequency Response - HQ 300-6800Hz, SP 300-4500Hz, LP 300-3400Hz Voice Activation Practical Maximum Output - 120 mW Speaker - 28mm diameter dynamic internal speaker Power Supply - Two AAA batteries Battery Life - Approximately 30 hours (using alkaline dry cell battery) Dimensions - Length 3.9 x Width 1.54 x Depth 0.85 inch Weight - 2.4 ounces (66.5 gram) including battery



Technical details:
Extremely compact and lightweight
Records up to 16 hours
Organize recordings into four handy folders
Scheduler and alarm function helps you remember appointments
Measures 1.5 x 3.9 x 0.8 inches (W x H x D)






Olympus DS-2 Digital Voice Recorder

Product description:

The advantages of digital voice recorders are numerous: superior sound, long recording times, and the convenience of built-in memory (much handier than hauling around several microcassettes). Enter the high-performance Olympus DS-2, which makes professional interviewing and dictation easy and efficient. With 64 MB of internal memory delivering up to 22 hours of total recording time in Long Play mode, the device is great for archiving long meetings or lectures, or for researching huge projects that require dozens of interviews. Users also have the choice of recording at several other speeds, including extreme high-quality modes that offer far less recording time (as little as one hour and five minutes) but much better audio resolution. The latter modes are more suitable for recording soft voices or when taking down complex song ideas--a process that's further assisted by the built-in stereo microphone designed to pick up all sides of a conversation with equal clarity.

The DS-2 is a breeze to use thanks to its straightforward front panel, from which users can quickly access or move files (the recorder comes with five folders, each capable of holding 199 files), set the alarm, or change the recording mode. Multitasking users will also delight in the voice activation function, which enables hands-free recording--a must when you're busy taking notes. Voice activation also saves battery life by powering off when no sound is detected. And when you just don't have time to attend to the details on the spot, you can set the DS-2 to record automatically over a fixed span. Simply enter the start and end times and the timer function is ready to go.

And though the DS-2 is primarily a recorder, the package comes with DSS Player software for editing and archiving files. The software offers a nice way to delete long silences, eliminate small talk, or combine two small but related passages into one large statement. Users can then transfer the files (they record in high-compression DSS and WMA formats) to a PC or Mac via the included USB docking station and cable. Once transferred, you can save them in perpetuity while freeing up the internal memory to record other interviews or meetings.

Additional features include a backlit LCD screen that shows the date, time, battery life, and more; 3.5 mm headphone and microphone jacks for added flexibility; and several basic and advanced playback options, including slow, fast, skip, and repeat. And best of all, the variety of functions come packed in a chassis that fits conveniently in your hand or pocket--quite unlike the bulky tape recorders of yesteryear. The DS-2, which also comes with a pair of earphones and a carrying case, runs for 18 hours on a single pair of AAA batteries (included) and carries a one-year warranty.

What's in the Box
DS-2 voice recorder, USB docking station, USB cable, stereo earphones, carrying case, DSS Player software CD, two AAA batteries, user's manual.


The DS-2 is the high-performance instrument professionals need to get the job done. A built-in stereo microphone ensures crisp stereo sound and 64MB of internal memory supplies 22 hours of recording time (LP). Record via voice activation or from the easy-to-use buttons on the face of the recorder. With slow, fast, skip, and repeat playback options. Featuring DSS Player software for editing, archiving and more and a USB docking station for fast and easy file transfers. 12 different speed levels (8 in fast playback, 4 in slow playback) Skip playback and Repeat playback options Variable Control Voice Actuator (VVCA) setting saves time and battery life by recording only when sound is sensed AAA batteries supply up to 18 hours of continuous operation PC Interface USB cable Folders Messages - 5 folders capable of storing up to 199 files each DSS (LP/SP), WMA (HQ/SSP/SHQ) Recording Format with Built-in 64MB Recording Time - 22 hours 20 min (LP), 10 hours 25 min (SP), 4 hours 20 min (HQ), 2 hours 10 min (SSP), 1 hour 5 min (SHQ) Sampling Frequency - SHQ 44.1kHz 128kbps, SSP 44.1kHz 64kbps, HQ 44.1kHz 32kbps, SP 12kHz 13.7kbps, LP 8kHz 6.3kbps Overall Frequency Response - SHQ 100-17000Hz, SSP 100-8000Hz, HQ 100-7000Hz, SP 200-5000Hz, LP 200-3000Hz System Requirements - Intel Pentium II class 333 MHz processor or more, Power Mac G3 233 MHz or faster, Microsoft Windows ME, 2000 Professional, XP professional, Home Edition, Macintosh OS 10.1, 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, RAM 128 MB or more (256MB or more is recommended), Sound Board Creative Labs Sound Blaster 16 or 100% compatible sound card, USB Port, Earphone output or speakers Dimensions - 4.8 x 1.5 x 0.7 inch Weight - 80 grams



Technical details:
Compact digital voice recorder with 64 MB of internal memory and USB docking station
Up to 22 hours of recording time in LP mode; 12 total speed levels (8 fast playback and 4 slow playback)
Each of 5 file folders holds 199 files; includes DSS Player editing software
USB dock connects to Mac or PC for file transfers; voice activation for hands-free recording
18 hours of operation on 2 AAA batteries (included); 1.48 by 4.8 by 0.69 inches (W x H x D)






Sony ICDU70 - 1GB Digital Voice Recorder w/ MP3 & Storage Device.

Product description:
From amazon.com
The Sony ICDU70 digital voice recorder makes capturing audio a breeze. Built-in flash memory provides 1GB of storage capacity for storing large amounts of data. And with the ability to play MP3 music files, you can get even more enjoyment out of your personal recorder. The ICD-U70 stores up to 16 hours of MP3 music or up to 502 hours of dictation in LP mode. The included Digital Voice Up function increases the playback volume of the person speaking when recorded at a distance. The digital pitch control allows recordings to be heard at slower or faster than normal speeds without distortion to facilitate transcribing or editing, or to move faster than normal to a desired portion. Its slim, sleek design is constructed of all aluminum for a sophisticated look.

Features:

USB Compatible for Hi-Speed Transfer Rate to a PC via USB port on a PC.

MP3 Playback provides easy playback of unsecured MP3 files by dragging and dropping files into the MP3 folder on the device.

3 Recording Modes: HQ, SP, LP

Slim Style Design is only one-half inch thick and fits neatly into a shirt pocket.

Digital Voice Up and VOR (Voice Operated Recording) Functions increases the volume of the person speaking when recorded at a distance from the unit.

Digital Pitch Control allows recordings to be heard at slower than normal speeds without distortion to facilitate transcribing or editing, or faster than normal to move quickly to a desired portion.

Recording Monitor Function allows the user to listen to the recording level by using headphone while unit is recording.

1GB Flash Memory uses a high capacity IC chip, which may be used repeatedly for recording with distortion-free clarity.

Sony's worldwide reputation for creating unique, attractive, high-quality, advanced technology products rests on a long line of innovations embraced by people from all walks of life. With a diverse product lineup serving a variety of lifestyles and industries, Sony continuously strives to introduce new products and technologies to meet changing market needs.PRODUCT FEATURES:1GB3 built In Memory;Up to 16 Hours of MP3 Playback;Up to 502 Hours of Recording Time (LP Mode);Built-in USB;5 Message Folders;HQ Recording Mode - 16kHz (19.2Kbps): Up to 115 Hours Recording Time;Add-Recording Function;Function Toggle Button Makes the Unit Easy to Use;Digital VOR (Voice Operated Recording);Easy-to-Read LCD Display;250mW Speaker Output;Includes; 1 "AAA" Battery, Neck Strap and Stereo Headphones;Compatible with Dragon Naturally Speaking Preferred Voice to Print;Software;Digital Voice Up Recording;Digital Pitch Control;3 Recording Modes (STLP).





Technical details:
140 Hour Voice Recording Time
16 Hour MP3 Playback
USB Direct Connect
Digital Pitch Control
Digital VOR






Olympus WS-100 64 MB Digital Voice Recorder with USB Interface

Product description:

Slim, attractive, and highly functional, the Olympus WS-100 digital voice recorder packs 64 MB of internal flash memory into its lightweight housing, letting you record up to 27 hours of audio in WMA format. It's ideal for recording notes or long lectures, interviewing sources for an upcoming article, or capturing spur-of-the-moment song ideas before they disappear into the recesses of your memory. As an added bonus, the recorder also serves as an all-purpose USB mass storage device, meaning it can store documents and images along with audio. Simply plug it into a digital camera through its USB interface and you can transfer several dozen images (depending on their size) to the flash memory, freeing up space in your camera's memory card. Then, when you return home, you can plug the recorder into a PC and switch the images to your hard drive. All this in a tiny body that measures 1.57 inches wide by 3.7 inches tall--roughly the size of a pack of gum.

File organization is straightforward and intuitive. The WS-100 boasts five separate folders capable of holding 199 files each, so you can organize nearly 1,000 files by subject, theme, or other categories. Users also have the choice of three recording modes: HQ, which minimizes background noise and is great for capturing people with low speaking voices (it offers 4 hours and 20 minutes of recording time); SP mode, which still sounds good but isn't quite as crisp (ensures 8 hours and 40 minutes of time); and LP mode, which is designed to maximize recording (27 hours and 20 minutes). And thanks to the voice activation option, users don't need to press a single button to start recording. The WS-100 will instead record as soon as the built-in microphone picks up sound.

Perhaps the most convenient feature, however, is the built-in USB connector. To transfer information to or from the WS-100 from a PC or Mac, all you need to do is remove one end of the recorder's body, which reveals a male USB plug. This USB Direct design eliminates the need for a USB cable (the male plug connects directly to your computer), making the device even more portable. Once connected, it's easy to download images, documents, and other files.

Every bit as important are the playback functions, which include fast (50 percent) and slow (25 percent) playback. And should you need to identify and quickly retrieve important sound bites, all you need to do is insert an index mark and refer to it later. Additional features include adjustable microphone sensitivity, which lets you adjust the recording level to meet your needs; an easy-to-read LCD display; the ability to erase single or entire files; and a pair of stereo earphones.

The WS-100 runs for approximately 13 hours on a single AAA battery and weighs a mere 1.9 ounces. It's also backed by a one-year warranty on parts and labor.