Let me start by saying that I was originally overwhelmed by the number of digital voice recorders and the different features.As I began to study the market I soon realized that selecting the right recorder would not be easy.I eventually developed a list of the top features that I wanted in a recorder.
The most important feature was that the recorder must be compatible with Dragon Naturally Speaking.Fortunately, many of the Olympus recorders are not only compatible but excel in that area.The WS-331 has not yet been certified by Nuance (the maker of Dragon), but the lower models have been.Recognizing that the 331 is both a new model and a much improved version I knew that success of the lower models would be a good indicator.As an example, the WS-320 as well as the 300 offer excellent service for voice recognition.
Building on compatibility I also knew that I would need a recorder that was easy to use.While other recorders provide feature rich controls the attraction to the Olympus was part simplicity and convenience.The main function buttons are located on the right side of the recorder.This is the traditional location for the record, stop, and play buttons.For some something as simple as location of main buttons would seem trivial; however, for me it was a question of function over form.
The Olympus also provides a clear, though small, LED screen.Of course, given the overall size of this recorder a larger screen would be both out of proportion and make the recorder harder to use.I have found so far that I actually do not look at the screen that often, so screen size is less material than I originally thought.Even with a relatively small screen the information given to the user is clear and concise.
The size of this recorder is simply amazing.Even with a battery the recorder weighs just a few ounces.While the recorder can be easily carried in a shirt pocket I have found that it is especially convenient when carried in one of the smallest cell phone belt pouches.The Olympus is about half the size of a Blackberry or small PDA.It is thinner than most small cell phones, and will fit easily on a belt or in a purse.
One of the top attractions to this recorder is the size of the memory.At 2GB there is plenty of room to store just about anything I can dictate.As an author of several books and dozens of articles I find that using the recorder is a valuable tool which has increased my productivity.I am no longer anchored to a computer keyboard when I write; now I can write anywhere I can take my recorder.
In fact, this review was recorded using the Olympus and then transcribed by Dragon.I actually found the error rate to be lower using the recorded file than when I use Dragon live.This has less to do with the voice recognition software than it does with the quality of the recording.I find that by recording I actually write better, and that my speech is clearer which means that my error rate drops.
Another significant feature of this recorder is the direct USB connection.The recorder comes with a short USB cable which can be easily used when access to the USB port is restricted.Fortunately my computer has several USB ports on the front, so I can connect the Olympus directly to the computer.
About the only negative to this is that the recorder now sticks out on front of the computer, and if the computer were positioned in a high traffic area it might create a hazard from being run into (hazard for the recorder, that is).
The recorder appears to be made mostly of plastic.Some might find this to be a negative but for me it helps explain the lack of weight.The light weight of the recorder is certainly an advantage, and I don't believe the plastic is a true issue.The overall quality of workmanship is very high.
Files are easily transferred from the Olympus to the computer just as they would be from a flash drive.The first time I plugged the Olympus into the USB port the computer immediately recognized the recorder.This is a real advantage, especially when transferring files to a new computer.As an example, I can easily use the recorder on both my home computer and laptop without installing special software.Likewise, I can take the recorder to my office where it is compatible with any computer using as USB port.Other recorders have a proprietary system that requires the use of special software, and that is simply too inconvenient given today's market and needs.
Files on the Olympus are stored in the WMA format.The recorder also plays music files in both the WMA and MP3 format.Having such large storage capacity also means that I can download music files to the recorder and still have plenty of room to make new recordings.
There are many other features which make this a great recorder, that space simply won't allow me to detail each of them.If you are looking for a great recorder to use with voice recognition software then I highly recommend this recorder.This is also a great tool for recording lectures, or conversations, and many other matters.
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Olympus WS-331M Digital Voice Recorder and WMA Music PlayerProduct Description: Stay organized and on the move with the Olympus WAS-331M Digital Voice Recorder and WMA Music Player, a high-quality digital voice recorder and powerful music player. Record meetings or notes and even store large documents to bring from one computer to another. For added convenience, the device features a speedy USB connection for easy file transfers with a PC. The its speedy USB 2.0 connection, just plug the WAS-331M into an open USB port and start transferring files. Up to 500 songs can be stored and played in impressive stereo sound with track and artist name clearly displayed on the WAS-331M's easy to read LCD screen.
The WAS-331M has the ability to play recordings in fast and slow playback modes, up to 50-percent faster or 50-percent slower than real time. The unit records files in the WMA (Windows Media Audio) format, and its 2 GB of flash memory is able to capture audio recordings in the following modes: stereo XQ mode (35 hours 30 minutes), stereo HQ mode (71 hours), stereo SP mode (142 hours 5 minutes), HQ mode (142 hours 5 minutes), SP mode (279 hours 35 minutes), and LP mode (555 hours 45 minutes). Other great features include voice activated recording, and a built-in 18 mm round dynamic speaker. The device runs on one AAA battery and offers up to 21 hours of continuous battery life. Compatible with Microsoft Windows 2000 and later operating systems (including Vista), the WAS-331M measures 3.73 x 1.52 x 0.43 inches and weighs just 1.66 ounces.
What's in the Box WS-331M digital voice recorder, USB cable, stereo earphones, one AAA alkaline battery, and instruction manual.
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Not really much to say. This works perfect on my Ws-331M, Olmympus Digital recorder.
Small and dynamic digital recorder for universal usage.Compact and light to be carried in the pocket .
This case is really great for the "Sony ICD-UX71 Digital Voice Recorder" (essentially a perfect fit). Almost all of the recorder's functions are easily accessible while in the case. The case provides a good level of protection, is of high quality, and looks nice. The case snaps/buttons shut at the bottom to cover the front of the recorder. The recorder is held in place by an elastic band at the case's top which approx rests in between the recorder's microphones and screen. The case has a good loop/belt clip on its back that buttons on its lower edge to the back of the case, but also has a second strip of material to keep the recorder on the belt even if the button comes undone. I added a smallish lanyard ("Olympus 202315 Adjustable Wrist Strap (Black)") to the voice recorder that hangs out while the recorder is in the case. Voice recorder is approx: 3-7/8"L x 1-1/4"W x 1/2"H. The case is approx: 4-1/4"L x 1-3/4"W x 1"H. Very satisfied. Highly recommended.
I bought this as a backup to my other Olympus recorder (which I frequently lend out).My other recorder is an Olympus WS-100 which I bought 4 years ago.It was one of the first digital voice recorders ever made.It has served me well.