At the 2011 NAMM Show: Olympus has unveiled its compact new LS-7 “pocket” linear PCM audio recording device.

At just 4.4 inches and weighing 3 ounces, the LS-7 fits is about the size of a candy bar, and fits into a pocket, but can record uncompressed 24 bit/96kHz linear PCM audio in WAV, MP3 and WMA formats using either its internal mics or by plugging in an external mic. The recorder should be available for purchase around March 1, with a suggested retail price of $199.

Equipped with a generous 4 gigabytes of internal flash memory, the LS-7 has the capacity to grab lengthy, uncompressed PCM recordings. It also features a microSD removable media card slot. The LS-7 operates on two rechargeable AAA batteries. An optional RS-30W Wireless Remote enables users to start and stop the recording without touching the unit [a nice feature for live gigs].

The LS-7 employs two condenser stereo mics and a center, omni-directional mic capable of capturing lower bass ranges as low as 20Hz. The 45-degree outward positions of the two condenser mics enable users to record with wider stereo sound.  In addition, the LS-7 can play back audio on its built-in speaker. Finally, the LS-7 features a switchable low-cut filter that enables users to eliminate low-frequency sound from 100Hz and 300Hz.

Another cool feature of the LS-7 which I had not seen before in a portable digital recorder is voice guidance, whereby the recorder can provide audio menu prompts for users with assistive needs. This helps the user operate the device without needing to see the menus or buttons.

In addition to Olympus Sonority software, the LS-7 is packaged with a USB cable, windscreen, carrying case, two rechargeable AAA batteries, strap, an instruction manual and Olympus warranty card. Optional accessories for the LS-7 include the infrared RS-30W Wireless Remote, WJ2 Wind Jammer and A514 AC adapter.

See more product specs and pictures at the Olympus site.