Sony ICD-MX20 Memory Stick Pro Duo Digital Voice Recorder
by Sony
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Digital Photo Product Details
Manufacturer: SonyRelease Date: 2009-11-30
Model: ICDMX20
Product features:
- Compact, handheld digital recorder
- Memory uses high-capacity IC chip
- Hybrid media card storage with Memory Stick Duo or Pro Duo
- Features advanced digital voice operated recording (VOR)
- Measures 1.18 x 0.67 x 4.23 inches (W x D x H)
Digital Cameras Photo Reviews of Sony ICD-MX20 Memory Stick Pro Duo Digital Voice Recorder
Customer Review: Great product. Software works under Linux/Wine
Summary: 5 Stars
I've used this for a couple weeks now, and I love it. The unit has a robust feature set and is very versatile. I'll give bullet points.
- The removable storage was a big draw for me. At ten bucks for a 1Gb card, I can use the cards themselves for archiving.
- The ability to create folders was important to me.
- It has a robust feature set.
- It has fantastic sound quality.
- Great voice pickup (I have a soft voice and I normally have problems with pickup, but this unit has no problem with it).
- The included software will convert the proprietary format to WAV files, and then you can convert to mp3 or whatever you want with third-party software (e.g., Audacity).
- I didn't get the Dragon Naturally Speaking software, so I cannot comment on that. I'll try that later.
- Some people commented on the incredibly smooth finish being almost slippery. I can see that, but I don't have a problem with it.
- The unit is small, so if you have large fingers it might take a little getting used to, but the buttons and the "joystick" quickly became comfortable to use.
- Some criticized the "pouch" that comes with the unit. It's a little pouch (no flap or buttons or anything) made from "polarfleece" type cloth. Good for keeping it from being scratched, but I'm already looking for something to replace the pouch.
- The included software will work on Linux if you install it using WINE.
- A lot of people have complained about short battery life. I turn it off between each use and I haven't had a negative experience with battery life. I'm still on the cheapo batteries that came with it.
Some drawbacks:
- I'd like to be able to change the names of the folders. It's either impossible or I just don't know how to do it.
- It's relatively expensive (like many Sony items).
- The instructions are not that great, but I'm not an "instructions" kind of guy anyway.
- The included software is behind the hardware because to tell the software what hardware is connecting to, there's a drop-down menu, but the model number of this unit is not listed.
The biggest question, though, is, "Would I buy it again?" Yes, without hesitation. But again, this assessment doesn't take into account durability or any type of long-term use because I've only had it a few weeks.
Description of Sony ICD-MX20 Memory Stick Pro Duo Digital Voice Recorder
705MIN Digital Voice RecorderREPLACEMENT FOR ICD-MS515- Sony digital voice recorder-Compatible with Dragon NaturallySpeaking voice-to-print software (NOT included)- Up to 705 minutes record time using the built-in 32MB flash memory in LP mode (260 minutes SP mode)- Compatiblewith Memory Stick PRO Duo up to 128MB- Slim and compact design- Digital pitch control (playback speed control)- MP3/WAV compatible (files are saved and played in LPEC format on the recorder itself)- Built-in triple microphones (selectable for stereo and directional recordings)- Directional microphone on/off switch- Menu for recording mode alarm and other settings- Folder and file label- Up to 340 folders to organize messages- Digital "voice up" technology provides well-balanced audio playback- Easy to use control keys- Digital voice editor software included- Easy PC connection: memory stick or USB- Various player functions- Easy attachment of voice files to email- SilverPackage Contents:- Voice recorder- Digital voice editor software (CD-ROM)- USB cable- 2 AAA batteries- Stereo earphones- Carrying case- ManualProfessional quality sound and high-level functionality are what distinguish the ICD-MX20 Memory Stick Pro Duo Digital Voice Recorder. Sony has designed a powerful, sleek recorder with a seamless aluminum body. The slim-style design is only one-half inch thick, with "record" and "pause" controls located on the side of the unit for easy operation. This tiny device fits neatly into a shirt pocket. Record grandma for an audio-genealogy or interview a famous celebrity -- whether you're recording for personal or professional reasons, you'll be extremely pleased.
The built-in 32 MB flash memory uses a high-capacity IC chip. This technology allows you to record over old messages again and again with distortion-free clarity. The standout feature on the ICD-MX20 is the hybrid storage. It gives you the option of using the built-in flash memory or utilizing Memory Stick Duo or Pro Duo media cards, providing virtually unlimited capacity. This is a great feature if you're at a long conference, and don't have time to download your files to a computer. Just put in a new Memory Stick media card, and keep recording. Each card can hold over 300 personalized folders, which makes organizing your audio a simple process.
The ICD-MX20 allows you to record at different quality levels. The high-quality, two-channel STLP recording mode allows up to 165 minutes of recording. This is perfect for recording interviews that you may want to reproduce in digital format. If you're just taking personal audio notes, switch the voice recorder to LP mode and take full advantage of over 11 hours of lower quality recording.
The advanced digital voice operated recording (VOR) feature actually stops recording during silent pauses, saving valuable recording time. Thanks to the digital buffer, this intelligent machine begins recording again without missing a single syllable. The digital recorder also comes equipped with USB connectivity for high speed copying of files to a PC.
What's in the Box
ICD-MX20 voice recorder, PC download software, 2 AAA batteries, USB cable, carrying case, and stereo earphones.
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