The Best Portable Audio Recording Devices: Cheap and Compact Options

Are you in need of a small, affordable, and portable device to record audio? There are several excellent options available, each with its unique features and price points that can suit different needs and budgets. In this guide, we will explore top choices from brands like Zoom and Tascam to help you find the best fit for your requirements.

Introduction to Portable Audio Recording Devices

When choosing a portable audio recording device, factors such as budget, size, and features play a significant role in your decision. This article will help you understand the various options available and guide you towards making an informed choice.

Zoom: Industry-Leading Portable Recorders

Zoom is renowned for its high-quality portable audio recorders, suitable for both beginners and professionals. Here are some of the top Zoom devices:

Zoom H1n

Compact and lightweight design Simple to use with XLR inputs for professional quality recordings Cheap starting at around $100 USD

The Zoom H1n is perfect for those who need a reliable portable audio recorder with great sound quality. It features XLR inputs, making it versatile for various recording scenarios.

Zoom H2n

Available in blue and black With Bluetooth for streaming audio Portable and suitable for field recording

The Zoom H2n is a great choice for field recording or any situation where you need a portable recorder that can stream audio via Bluetooth. It is available in two stylish colors and is designed for ease of use.

Zoom H6

High-quality with six channels for multi-track recording Easy-to-use interface with comprehensive controls Excellent for small bands or ensembles

The Zoom H6 is a versatile choice for musicians and sound engineers who require a robust recording setup. It features six channels, making it ideal for recording multiple sources simultaneously.

Tascam: Reliable and Affordable Options

Tascam is known for producing reliable and affordable portable audio recorders. Here are some of their top models:

Tascam DR-05

Compact and affordable Easy to use with one-touch operation for quick recording Cheap starting at around $50 USD

The Tascam DR-05 is a budget-friendly option that is ideal for beginners or casual users. Its compact design and easy-to-use interface make it a great choice for quick and simple recordings.

Tascam DR-10L

Large recording capacity with interchangeable recording media Small form factor for portability Affordable but offers high-quality recordings

The Tascam DR-10L is a larger capacity model that provides more recording time and versatility. It is a portable device that can handle extended recording sessions, making it ideal for long-form recordings or field expeditions.

Tascam DR-1

Suitable for field recording with interchangeable batteries and media Smaller form factor for discreet placement Cheap starting at around $150 USD

The Tascam DR-1 is a more professional-grade device that is designed for field recording. Its small form factor and interchangeable batteries make it suitable for discreet placement or extended recording sessions.

Custom Solutions: Russian Spy-Class Devices

If you need the most compact and inconspicuous device, there are specialized options available:

Soroka S17

Smallest spy-class voice recorder with dimensions of 26.5 x 26.8 x 53 millimeters Designed for extreme concealment Affordable at around $300 USD (approximately 3,000 Russian rubles) in Moscow as of November 2019

The Soroka S17 is a spy-grade device that is incredibly small, making it perfect for highly secretive recording tasks. However, it lacks some of the features of more traditional audio recorders, such as external mic input and monitoring capabilities.

Conclusion

Choosing the right portable audio recording device depends on your specific needs, budget, and intended use. Whether you prefer a compact, budget-friendly option like the Zoom H1n or a more feature-rich device like the Tascam DR-10L, there is a solution that can meet your requirements. For the most discreet option, the Soroka S17 offers unparalleled concealment, though it comes with its own trade-offs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Zoom H1n and H2n?
The Zoom H1n is more compact and simple to use, ideal for beginners, while the H2n has Bluetooth streaming and a more stylish design, suitable for field recording. Is the Tascam DR-05 suitable for professional use?
While the Tascam DR-05 is a budget-friendly option, it is not designed for professional-grade use. It is best for casual or beginner users. Can the Soroka S17 use an external microphone?
No, the Soroka S17 does not have an external microphone input, making it ideal for situations where discreetness is more important than recording quality.