Olympus has introduced three new DS-Series digital voice recorders, the new Olympus DS-30, DS-40 and DS-50, that are optimized for downloading, listening to and creating podcasts. The new recorders’ high sound quality is also great for listening to audio books and music, making them the all-in-one audio device.

Software included with the devices is designed to make downloading podcasts easy, according to Olympus. Podcasts are updated automatically each time the audio recorder is connected to or “synchronized” with a computer. The new voice recorders are also specifically designed to work with Audible.com, a leading online provider of audio books and other spoken entertainment and information.

Features:

• The highest sound quality in the Olympus line-up with the new XSHQ Remarkable Stereo Sound Quality mode. The new DS-Series devices can record and play audio content up to 44.1 kilohertz (kHz), which is equal to the sound quality of most CDs.
• A removable stereo microphone for recording high-quality digital audio.
• A “Voice Guidance” function that talks, confirming which settings have been selected and helping visually challenged users to navigate the device.
• Built-in memory from 256MB to 512MB to one gigabyte that enables amazingly long recording times ranging up to 275 hours.
• “PC Link” enables the recorders to connect to a PC via the included USB cable for quick downloading of audio files to and from a computer.

“Our DS-Series voice recorders have been used for years by professionals such as doctors and lawyers to capture audio throughout their workday,” said Andy Flagg, director, Sales and Marketing, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “These new devices have moved from the hospital and courtroom into their personal lives. With stereo headphones and up to one gigabyte memory, the new devices are optimal for holding virtual libraries of music, audio books and podcasts, as well as the traditional voice recordings.”

The new DS-Series have microphones that can detach from their bodies and attach to a remote controller (an optional accessory) to allow podcasters to clip the DS-Series’ microphone onto a shirt or tie and record in high fidelity at the flip of a switch.
The recorders feature a speaker for audio playback on the back, buttons for recording and playback on the side, and easy-to-use arrow pads and buttons to navigate menus on the front. Olympus even created a power on/off sliding switch so users wouldn’t accidentally turn it on.

Alll three models come with large, easy-to-read high-contrast LCD screens that display file information, recording time and settings. The DS-30 features a silver casing with an amber backlight LCD screen. The DS-40 features a dark silver casing with a white backlight LCD screen. The DS-50 features a blue casing with a white backlight LCD screen.

The three new devices offer a voice confirmation function that can be turned on or off. When turned on, the function enables the devices to speak, helping users to navigate the folders and various set-up options. The automated voice guides users through the onscreen menus for setting date, time and other menu selecting modes. It also confirms by stating the folder name as the user moves from one folder to another.

This enables visually challenged users to easily move through the device’s menus, folders and set-up options. An instruction manual will also be available to users as an audio file. Much like any audio book, this option enables users to listen to the instruction manual for quick and easy use.

Both MP3 and WMA (Windows Media Audio) files can be downloaded and played back on the device. This provides users with extreme flexibility, enabling them to use one device for recording meetings / lectures for work or school, while also enjoying music and audio books for fun.

A Timer Recording mode is available for instances when a recording needs to begin at a specific time. It works by setting a beginning time to start recording and an end time to stop recording. This feature is valuable for those who do not want to call attention to the fact that they’re making a recording by pushing the record button, or when timing is essential to capture the recording.

The DS-Series digital recorders also provide variable speed playback. After capture, the slow playback option allows recordings to be listened to efficiently with playback that is up to 50 percent slower than real time, and fast playback that is up to 50 percent faster than real time. Slow playback helps to eliminate the need for users to listen to the same recording multiple times to hear what was said, and with fast playback they can skip ahead to the essential sections – a real benefit for transcribing dictation.

The DS-Series digital voice recorders have up to 32 hours of continuous operation using two AAA batteries. An AC power supply is also available.

The DS-Series digital voice recorders also feature a one-year warranty.

Availability

The DS-30, DS-40 and DS-50 will be available in January 2007. Accessories include stereo microphone, USB Cable, stereo earphones, a DSS Player Version 7 Software CD-ROM and two AAA-alkaline batteries. DS-50 additionally includes a remote control and carrying case.

U.S. Pricing

• DS-30 Digital Voice Recorder Estimated Street Price: $149.99 (U.S.)
• DS-40 Digital Voice Recorder Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (U.S.)
• DS-50 Digital Voice Recorder Estimated Street Price: $249.99 (U.S.)