Portable recorders are a great way to capture audio on the go. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry wherever you go. Portable recorders also typically have a built-in or attached microphone, so you don’t need to carry around an external microphone. However, having said that you can also attach external XLR microphones to some recorders, and others have been specifically designed for podcasters.
Top Picks for Portable Recorders: Capture High-Quality Audio on the Go
Our Top picks for portable recorders to help you capture high-quality audio on the go. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options to consider, along with their pros, cons, and average costs:
Budget-Friendly Options (Under $200):
Zoom H1n ($100): (Amazon – https://amzn.to/3wfvLyb)
- Pros: Ultra-compact, affordable, long battery life, stereo microphones.
- Cons: Limited controls, basic recording features, might require an external mic for professional sound.
Tascam DR-05X ($150): (Amazon – https://amzn.to/3UoDL84)
- Pros: Compact and lightweight, built-in microphones with adjustable gain, easy to use.
- Cons: Less intuitive interface compared to some, lower maximum recording resolution.
Mid-Range Options ($200-$500):
Zoom H4n Pro ($300): (Amazon – https://amzn.to/3WkER7q)
- Pros: Versatile recorder with XLR/TRS combo jacks for external microphones, onboard mixer, records up to four tracks simultaneously.
- Cons: Slightly larger size than budget options, menu system can have a learning curve.
Zoom H6 ($400): (Amazon – https://amzn.to/44lkUQ2)
- Pros: Records up to 6 tracks simultaneously: Perfect for podcasts with multiple guests or capturing a full band. XLR and TRS inputs and phantom power.
- Cons: Slightly bulky so not the most pocket-friendly recorder. The menu system will need a short learning curve for beginners.
High-End Options ($500 and Up):
Sound Devices MixPre-3 II ($600): (Amazon – https://amzn.to/3UGKZET)
- Pros: Professional-grade audio quality with preamps, phantom power, and advanced features like Bluetooth control.
- Cons: Most expensive option on this list, complex for beginners, requires XLR microphones.
TASCAM Portacapture X8 ($700): (Amazon – https://amzn.to/3w5sSjH)
- Pros: Records up to eight tracks simultaneously, touchscreen interface, interchangeable capsules for different miking scenarios.
- Cons: Large and heavy for a portable recorder, requires a significant investment.
Choosing the Right Recorder:
Consider these factors when picking your portable recorder:
- Budget: Portable recorders cater to a wide range of budgets. Decide how much you’re comfortable spending.
- Recording Needs: Will you be using external microphones? How many tracks do you plan to record simultaneously? Do you need 32-bit float (see notes below)
- Portability: How important is a compact size and lightweight design?
- Ease of Use: Do you value a simple interface or advanced features for professional control?
By understanding your needs and budget, you can select the ideal portable recorder to capture your audio and take your creativity on the go!
32-bit float explained
There’s a superb guide to 32-bit float on the Tascam website here.
To put it simply – Traditional recording captures audio on a scale with a maximum and minimum value. 32-bit float recording breaks free from this limitation. It uses a more flexible system that allows for a much wider range of sound levels. This is like having a camera that captures everything from the faintest starlight to the blinding sun, all in one shot.
With 32-bit float, you can record loud sounds without clipping (distortion) and quiet sounds without adding noise during recording. This extra headroom gives you more freedom and flexibility during editing, letting you adjust volume levels later without sacrificing audio quality.
