Of course, in the era of smartphones, it is difficult to surprise a person with a sound recording device. Yes, and most people use the gadget as this function, but when it comes to hidden recording, most smartphones will not be able to cope with this task. Because during a confidential conversation, the probability that the mobile device will be confiscated is 90%. But, besides this, some students need these devices to record lectures or seminars, and a smartphone is unlikely to be able to do this job well. Therefore, the editors of the YaNashla website have prepared for you a rating of the best voice recorders for secret recording for 2021.
What it is?
A voice recorder is a compact device whose main purpose is to continuously record sounds for later listening. The first copy appeared in 1877. Of course, at that time it could not operate with its compact size, but with the main function: recording and subsequent playback of the human voice, it managed 5 points.
Years later, it noticeably changed its shape, turning from a tabletop device into a pocket-sized one. In addition, a dozen different functions appeared in it, the interface became “friendly” with the user, and not repulsive. And choosing a device of the right size is now a matter of five minutes.
No. 4 – Ambertek VR658
Price: 5,980 rubles
Another voice recorder from Ambertek, although only capable of single-channel recording, weighs a record-breaking 15 grams, including the battery. The built-in memory is 8 GB, and the maximum recording time is 100 hours.
This is one of the most compact voice recorders, which, nevertheless, is capable of holding a charge for a very long time. The sensor perfectly perceives any sound even at a long distance, and the built-in speaker can play previously recorded files relatively loudly. There are no noticeable interferences, and the device itself is very easy to operate, all buttons have an intuitive layout.
Some users didn't like that the device's size made it too easy to lose.
Ambertek VR658
What types are there?
For 2021, only two variations of voice recorders are known: analog and digital.
- In the first option, a recording of a human voice, the sound of nature, a melody, etc. carried out on magnetic tape cassettes. Such devices are familiar to most, at least from foreign films. For example, at the beginning of the documentary series “Chernobyl,” Professor Legasov turns on a similar device.
- In the second case, the material is recorded on the internal drive. Therefore, such models can be of any shape and weight, and some can even be used as a keychain, and no one will ever guess that it is a voice recorder.
However, despite all the variety of digital devices, if a person needs to prove something, then it is better to use an analog device, since it is more difficult to fake a voice on these devices than on standard ones. Moreover, you can choose such a device with good quality for 1000 rubles. In addition, these devices can safely re-record cassettes. But, besides its advantages, the device has a number of disadvantages:
- Noise during operation that cannot be eliminated;
- Hard to find cassette;
- A regular battery is used, which eliminates the possibility of charging the device.
Therefore, if a person is looking for versatility, small dimensions, and clear sound, then a digital voice recorder is a good purchase. The main advantage of such models is that they work with a memory chip. Thanks to this solution, performance increases and the battery drains more slowly.
Main characteristics for the digital model
In order for the device to work flawlessly and never fail, when considering the options, it is important to pay attention to such parameters as:
- Sensitivity;
- How long does one charge last?
- Format.
Sensitivity
Most often this parameter is indicated in meters. It shows the user at what distance good recording is possible, without interference, etc. Because not every student or interviewer will be able to present the device directly to the speaker’s face without causing confusion.
It is also important to understand that if the maximum frequency is specified as 44,000 Hz, this is, of course, good, only intended for professional use. If a voice recorder is purchased only for the purpose of recording a human voice, then the optimal option is 4000 Hz, more is possible, but not worth it, but the minimum value is 100 Hz and cannot be lowered, otherwise voices with noise cannot be distinguished.
For comfortable use, most modern models have the ability to adjust sensitivity; this allows you to adapt to a specific situation, but it is also used more often by specialists who do not need the device as decoration. In addition, some voice recorders have such a useful function as protection from extraneous noise, but the cost of such devices is several times higher. This is important to consider, since when buying a cheap model from China for a dollar, you should not expect crystal clear sound, but background noise and human whispers are welcome.
Therefore, if a person buys a device for professional use, then the first place should be the quality of hidden recording, and not the cost. The only thing you can do to achieve this parameter and protect yourself from a bad purchase is to first test the device in a store.
In modern stores there are models that can easily pick up a human voice from 14 meters. Therefore, some people can secretly eavesdrop on conversations using such devices. But it is important to know that such actions are prohibited not only by ethics, but also by law.
Time
Most often, this parameter is affected by the media type. So, some have only a certain amount and there is no opportunity to expand, while others have a combination. The latter are produced in larger volumes. Because 2 or 4 GB may not be enough for users, especially journalists, since they process a large amount of information.
It is important to remember that you should choose a flash drive not on the basis of “the more, the better,” but on the capabilities of the device itself. After all, having bought a 256 GB memory card, you should ask the question whether the voice recorder can read it. Because most devices work with the SDHC format (up to 32 GB).
It is better to treat the maximum active work time parameter with skepticism, and in the case of Chinese models, not to trust it at all. This is due to the fact that the manufacturer specifies a lower bitrate threshold. This means that the promised 120 hours of operation will be carried out in low mode: 8 kbits per second. In other words, the person will receive high-quality interference, but not the voice.
To roughly understand the operating time of a battery, you need to pay attention to such parameters as capacity and amount of energy consumed. The last point is indicated in the technical data sheet of the product. So, if the power consumption is 0.2 W, and the battery capacity is 1200 mAh, then the approximate operating time will be 6 hours.
Select by format
The recorder is capable of recording in a large number of formats, but the following are considered popular:
- MP3 this option is ideally balanced in terms of memory footprint and quality. In addition, it is a common format and can be easily read on all devices without hassle. However, some professional users have identified this nuance: it is not able to clearly convey sound with the slightest nuances. Although amateurs do not need this, it is important for specialists to know.
- WMA. The format is head and shoulders above the quality of work, unlike the previous version, but it also takes up more space on the drive. Therefore, you won’t be able to get by with a standard 2 GB or 4 GB device.
- DSS. A modern solution that is considered an ideal solution for journalists. The format does not take up memory, and the sound is clear. The only drawback of this solution is that not all devices can read it. Therefore, to prevent this problem from becoming a headache, it is recommended to install additional software or convert to a popular format.
Special Features
Devices that can be activated by voice are very popular. This is a useful feature for multi-hour interviews. This way, the user will save extra space and record only what is useful. But you should understand that this opportunity has an “Achilles heel” - the time spent on activation. That is, playback will begin after 2-3 seconds, and during this period the information that was necessary may slip away. However, not everything is so bad, because some models are equipped with a special threshold regulator, that is, the owner sets the required noise level, which the device will perceive as silence.
Nice additions
Many professionals prefer to buy a voice recorder with active noise reduction. This way a person will be able to interview in a noisy room, on the street, etc. and not worry about the quality of the interlocutor’s voice. It is important to note that each manufacturer calls this mode differently. We also must not forget that when this mode is activated, all excess noise will be minimized, but the voice will not be recorded perfectly.
External microphone
This feature is considered useful in cases where the device is located at a remote distance from the object. It is also important to consider the direction in which the recording occurs, because then you will be able to achieve the highest quality result.
So, having an external microphone, the user just needs to connect it to the recorder and that’s it. In addition, this option will free your hands and allow you to record high-quality sound.
Automatic signal boost
To implement this function, some manufacturers have implemented AGC in devices. The principle of its operation is simple: when an object begins to make loud sounds, the devices automatically muffle it, and if the opposite happens, it increases it. This mode is useful for events such as a press conference, where it is difficult to hear the answer to a question because everyone is shouting and the person is at a distance.
Frequency settings
Standard models operate with a range of up to 3000 Hz. This value is sufficient when a person is conducting a simple conversation. And if you buy a device only for recording music, then it is better to buy a more expensive device. It will contain an extended range, which will allow you to choose the option that is more necessary for the current situation.
Mono and stereo
If you are buying a microphone to conduct loud arguments like in the Stray Dog cafe, then a voice recorder with stereo support is an excellent option; in other cases, mono is the right solution.
Rating of quality voice recorders
Ambertek VR105
A device in the form of a flash drive that will record any conversation without the interlocutor noticing. It has its own battery (Li-Ion battery) that can withstand up to 16 hours of continuous operation. Recording is carried out in a popular format. According to buyers, this is the best solution for the money. Because the sound is as clear as possible and the user does not have to listen to every word.
The device is compact, you can either put it in your pocket or hang it as a keychain. It weighs only 14 grams, so you won’t feel it. Case material – plastic. One recording channel, which does not allow the device to be used during loud conversations. Built-in memory for approximately 50 hours of active work.
The average cost is 1980 rubles.
Ambertek VR105
Advantages:
- High-quality sound;
- Compact;
- Inconspicuous;
- The charge lasts for 16 hours;
- Price.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Ambertek VR250F
An advanced model that is more suitable not for students, but for lawyers, journalists and other people who are constantly faced with a high volume of information. Unlike the previous version, there are two recording channels, which significantly expands the scope of the equipment.
In addition, the device has a convenient LCD display and playback capabilities. To protect your personal data, the recorder can be protected with a password. Operating time on a single charge is about 25 hours, built-in memory is 16 GB. The weight of the device with battery is 50 grams. The device is compact and does not take up space in your pocket.
To make working with the device more comfortable, the manufacturer equipped the device with a charge indicator, a clock, and the ability to pause recording.
The average cost is 3280 rubles.
Ambertek VR250F
Advantages:
- Password protection;
- Good quality of recorded sound;
- Informative display;
- Compactness;
- Voice activation;
- Metal body;
- 16 GB of internal memory.
Flaws:
- When used correctly, there are none.
Olympus VP-10
A high-quality model that will allow you to record in three formats: MP3, WMA, PCM. At the same time, the sound will remain clean and pleasant. For convenience, there is a miniature LCD screen that makes it possible to monitor the current status of the device. Frequency range up to 17,000 Hz. Therefore, a person will be able to use the device for almost any purpose.
For convenience, there is voice activation, which works almost instantly, and there is also a change in microphone sensitivity. The main power source is a pinky rechargeable battery, with an approximate operating time of 50 hours. Power consumption – 0.9 W. The volume of built-in memory is 4 GB, there is no possibility of expansion.
The average cost is 7,000 rubles.
Olympus VP-10
Advantages:
- Ergonomics;
- Quality of work;
- Quick start;
- Easily connects to PC;
- Evens out sounds.
Flaws:
- Plastic case.
Sony ICD-TX650
A good model that will allow you to record voice in two formats: MP3 and PCM. There are 2 channels, with a frequency range from 95 to 20,000 Hz. Thanks to this, a person will be able to use a voice recorder in professional activities.
For convenience, there are modes such as timer recording, voice activation, and sensitivity changes. The maximum continuous operation time is 15 hours. The weight of the device is 29 grams.
The average cost is 8810 rubles.
Sony ICD-TX650
Advantages:
- Stylish;
- From a trusted manufacturer;
- Clear interface;
- Recording quality;
- 16 GB;
- A leather case is included.
Flaws:
- There is no connector for connecting an external microphone.
Noyazu
This option is considered an almost ideal solution for secret recording. The working format is WMA, which will give the user only clear sound, but for this you will have to buy a memory card (options up to 32 GB are supported). A useful feature of the voice recorder is its tight fixation to a metal surface and the ability to shoot video in 480p format. The active operating time on one charge is 20 hours.
The average cost is 10,000 rubles.
Noyazu
Advantages:
- Quality of work;
- Video recording support;
- Magnet;
- High-quality case;
- Sensitive microphone.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
Soroka-17
A Russian model that will impress the user with quality and compactness. The device is so inconspicuous that it will not arouse suspicion even among the most vigilant security guard. In addition, the device is capable of continuously recording sound for 65 hours. The recorder is optimized for sub-zero temperatures, which will prevent it from deteriorating when left outside for a long time. Format – WAV, uncompressed.
The average cost is 10,600 rubles.
Soroka-17
Advantages:
- High operating frequency range;
- Compactness;
- Continuous operation time – 65 hours;
- Includes 32 GB microSDHC Samsung EVO+ flash drive;
- Nice build.
Flaws:
- Not detected.
6. Soroka 07
- number of recording channels: 1 (mono)
- micro Secure Digital memory card
- adjusting microphone sensitivity
But among the foreign guests a modest domestic guest appeared. This is a very tiny voice recorder, it has no display, no mount, nothing at all except one button. And its size is only slightly larger than a ruble coin. It’s amazing how they managed to fit a microSD card slot into the little thing, as well as a sound sensor activation system.
Moreover, the body of the voice recorder is not plastic, but metal. It also has protection against ultrasonic jammers. And also the official conclusion of experts from NPO Expert Union LLC, that the recording from this voice recorder is suitable for identifying speakers, which gives you an idea of the purposes for which this little thing is usually used.
Pros : sound quality, miniature size, ability to configure on a computer.
Cons : only one control button, it is impossible to listen to the recording on the recorder itself.
