Are you trying to find field recorder among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling field recorder on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 14 hours of research and did 15 field recorder tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best field recorder you can buy today
- RECORDING: Functions as a 2in/ 2out USB Audio Interface for Mac, PC or iOS recording. Supports microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC card
- USE: Great for recording meetings, music, audio-for-video, dictation, and more
- AUDIO: Dual internal condenser microphones can handle anything from subtle to loud to 125dB SPL
- BATTERY: Records for up to 17.5 hours using 2ch WAV, 44.1kHz/ 16bit format using alkaline batteries
- FUNCTIONS: Record, Jump back, Variable Speed, Equalizer preset for human voice, Auto Recording and more
- Capture Professional-Quality Audio: With four-track simultaneous recording, built-in X/Y stereo microphones, and high-fidelity mic preamps, the H4N is the perfect tool for capturing studio-grade audio in any environment.
- Connect with Confidence: The H4N offers extensive connectivity options, including two mic/line level inputs with XLR/TRS combo connectors and a stereo 1/8" Mic In mini phone jack. Plus, with output/headphone jack with dedicated volume control, you'll have complete control over your sound.
- Unlock Powerful Recording Capabilities: Record up to 140 dB SPL with X/Y microphones, and support up to 24-bit/96 kHz audio in BWF-compliant WAV or a variety of MP3 formats. With built-in effects like compression/limiting, low-cut filtering, modulation, reverb/delay and amp models, your recordings will sound professional and polished.
- Portable and Convenient: The H4N is compact and versatile, making it perfect for on-the-go recording. It can be mounted to a mic stand or tripod, or directly to a DSLR with an optional Hot Shoe adapter. Plus, with up to 5.5 hours of battery life (up to 8 hours in Stamina mode), you can record anywhere, anytime.
- Enhance Your Recording Setup: The H4N doubles as a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface for PC/Mac computers, making it a must-have tool for any home or professional recording setup. With its sleek design and powerful capabilities, the H4N is a game-changer for any recording enthusiast.
- 32-bit float recording and dual AD converters for full dynamic range and clip-free audio capture with no need to set gain
- 2 locking-XLR inputs / 2-track field audio recorder
- Compact yet rugged metal casing, mounting bars and tripod mount
- High quality mic preamps with a super-low noise floor (−127 dBu EIN)
- Record up to 192 kHz sampling/32-bit float WAV format, mono or stereo files to SD cards up to 512GB
- Auto Recording: Auto recording function can detect the sound input signal level and automatically start recording. Also, Pre-recording function with up to 2 seconds pre-record provides fail-safe protection even when you are a bit late to hit the record button
- Peak Reduction: Peak Reduction works in rehearsal mode or in record. Even if the sound or performance is louder than the sound check you’re safe. Combined with Auto level and Limiter for preventing distortion, you never have to worry
- Overwrite Mode: If you don’t like the last part of a phrase you just recorded with your guitar, or if you change your mind and want to rephrase narration, the “Overwrite mode” is exactly what you need. Overwrite mode allows punch-in recording from a desired point. It is destructive editing with one level of undo
- Nondestructive Overdubbing: The overdubbing function allows for Overdub Recording while playing a previously recorded file. This allows you to record other parts such as a guitar solo over a recording previously made such as at a rehearsal studio. Overdubbing creates a new file, leaving the original file unaffected, making it easy to re-record
- Extended Battery Life: DR-07X uses only two AA batteries and has ultra-long battery capability. When using built-in microphones, recording lasts 17.5 hours when recording with standard 2ch WAV, 44.1kHz/ 16bit format using alkaline batteries
- 32-bit float recording technology
- 8-channel/10-track field audio recorder/mixer
- Records in BWF-compliant WAV format up to 192kHz/32-bit float
- 8 discrete inputs with locking Neutrik XLR/TRS combo connectors
- High quality mic preamps with up to 75 dB gain and less than -127 dBu EIN
- Four-Track Simultaneous Recording
- High-Fidelity Mic Preamps
- Built-In X/Y Stereo Microphones, Adjustable Between 90 Degrees and 120 Degrees
- Record Up to 140 dB SPL with X/Y Microphones
- Two Mic/Line Level Inputs with XLR/TRS Combo Connectors
- 32-Bit float recording with dual a/D converters
- 6-Channel/14-track field audio recorder/mixer
- 6 discrete inputs with locking Neutrik XLR connectors
- Advanced look-ahead hybrid Limiters for 24-bit recording
- Ios wireless control with F control app
- Intuitive Launcher system using a 3.5-inch color touch panel display
- Recording applications such as basic multi-track recording, podcasting, music, voice (interviews, vlog), field recording, ASMR and more
- 4 XLR/TRS locking combo jack MIC/LINE inputs with individual phantom power supply (24V/48V) and in-house-developed HDDA (High Definition Discrete Architecture) mic preamps
- Supports up to 192kHz/ 32-bit float point recording
- Detachable 14.6mm large-diaphragm condenser mics for both A-B position and X-Y position
- English (Publication Language)
- ✅ 128GB (128 T F) memory and high capacity battery ▶️ digital voice recorder has 136GB of memory to store up to 9868 hours of audio files (32kbps), a professional digital recorder with microphone equipment tool, making it a great choice for professionals, students, journalists, and anyone who needs to record and lecture recorders for college, conferences, and interviews.
- ✅ High-Definition Dual Microphone Noise Reduction ▶️ This voice activated recorder device utilizes the latest noise reduction technology, delivering high-quality 1536kbps sound. Equipped with omnidirectional stereo microphones, it can capture sound from greater distances and lower frequencies, all while filtering out background noise, allowing you to focus on your recording content.
- ✅ Intelligent voice control recording ▶️ With the voice-activated feature enabled, the music recorder will automatically start recording when the sound level reaches the threshold of 38 decibels and pause recording when there is no sound. This greatly saves memory space and listening time, making it widely applicable in classrooms and language learning contexts.
- ✅ AB Point Repeat Playback ▶️ No need for manual adjustments of the playbacAB Point Repeat Playback Function - No need for manual adjustments of the playback position; simply set the A and B points, allowing you to repeatedly listen to the content you're interested in, enhancing memory and comprehension. Whether it's language learning, music study, or professional research, the AB Point Repeat Playback Function becomes your effective learning assistant, making your efforts more productive.
- ✅ Rugged Quality and USB-C ▶️ The metal casing of this recording device offers you robust durability, safeguarding its internal technology, ensuring long-lasting, reliable performance. Additionally, it features a USB-C charging port, compatible with most modern charging cables, for effortless recharging and constant readiness for recording. Whether for professional work or personal needs, this mini recording device is an indispensable tool.
- ✅ Secure password protection ▶️ With a 6-digit password offering 9261 possible combinations, your device remains inaccessible to anyone without the correct code. After three unsuccessful attempts, the device will automatically shut down. This ensures the safety and confidentiality of your recorded knowledge, providing peace of mind for protecting your intellectual property.
- H1n Value Pack (2023 H1n-VP Model) with matte finish and specially designed protective mic enclosure
- Built-in stereo condenser microphones in 90-Degree X/Y format
- Localized and intuitive menus for easy operation
- Playback Speed control, voice emphasize filter, and stereo overdubbing functions
- Included accessories: padded shell case, micro USB cable, AD-17 Power Adapter and foam windscreen
- Line Level Input For Live Capture: The Tascam DR-40X Audio Interface features dual Neutrik XLR/TRS combo jacks that support both mic-level and +4dBu line-level. These inputs can accept balanced microphone or line level from Mixers or the FOH console. The microphone preamp includes +48V phantom power and plenty of gain for detailed recordings with condenser microphones, as well as electret type microphones
- Versatile Four-track Recording: In addition to normal stereo channel recording and dual recording mode, the DR-40X has 4CH Mode that can record two different stereo feeds simultaneously. The combination of the sources are flexible; recording the built-in microphones along with a pair of external Mics such as close-up and ambient microphones, or recording the built-in Mics along with a balanced line input such as the feed from a mixer along with the sound in the room
- Wide Covering Range: The DR-40X Audio Recording Interface allows high-quality recording with its stereo built-in condenser microphones. Every detail is captured from small whispers to loud sounds up to 125dB SPL. These built-in microphones are adjustable unidirectional microphones for recording in an X-Y pattern for tight stereo imaging or in an A-B pattern for a more ambient recording
- Overwrite Mode: If you don’t like the last part of a phrase you just recorded with your guitar, or if you change your mind and want to rephrase narration, the Overwrite mode is exactly what you need. The Overwrite mode allows you to punch-in recording from a desired point. It is destructive editing with one level of undo
- Nondestructive Overdubbing: The overdubbing function allows for overdub recording while playing a previously recorded file. This allows you to record other parts such as a guitar solo over a recording previously made such as at a rehearsal studio. Overdubbing creates a new file, leaving the original file unaffected, making it easy to re-record
- Record Like a Pro: With up to 24-bit/96kHz audio and six-track simultaneous recording, our audio recorder lets you capture every detail of your sound.
- Versatile Recording: Our digital voice recorder with four mic/line inputs and interchangeable capsules makes it perfect for recording everything from meetings to music.
- Never Miss a Beat: Auto-record, pre-record, and backup-record functions ensure that you'll never miss the perfect take with our sound recorder.
- Easy to Use: Our portable recorder has a large full-color LCD display and gain control knobs with -20dB pads for each input, making it simple to navigate and adjust settings.
- Long Battery Life: With over 20 hours of operation using standard AA alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries, our handheld recorder is perfect for extended recording sessions.
- Four microphone inputs with 64dB of smooth gain and phantom power
- Select Four-track recording mode of Dual recording - a distortion-proof safety track
- Clear audio quality and A/D converters capture every whisper and shout of a performance
- Records up to 96Jz/24-bit WAV or BWAV audio to SD card media
- Low cut filter and limiter to avoid noisy, distorted recordings
- Over 20 hours of operation using two standard AA batteries. Mounts directly to tripod or DSLR
- Key control, a-b repeat, file dividing, normalize, MP3 post-encode, marker and surround mixer
- Additional functions include lo-cut filter, compressor/limiter, Auto gain, pre-rec, auto-rec, Tuner, metronome, variable speed playback
- Records in WAV up to 24-bit/96kHz and MP3 up to 320kbps
- File types supported: mav, MP3
- Four-channel recorder and mixer
- Compact case with tripod mounts designed for use with cameras
- Four XLR microphone inputs with phantom power
- Mic preamps feature 64dB of gain with individual controls per channel
- Enhanced sound quality
- Newly updated slimmer design
- Built-in stereo microphone and voice operated recording
- Three recording options: wide/stereo, narrow/focus and normal
- Quick charge; up to 1-hour recording time, with 3-minute charge
- Two-channel Audio recorder supports up to 24-bit/96 kHz audio in BWF-compliant WAV or a variety of MP3 formats
- Includes lavalier microphone with windscreen, mic clip, and belt clip
- Compatible with Zoom microphone capsules
- One-touch button controls
- Records directly to micro SD and SDHC cards up to 32 GB
- 32-Bit Float technology for clip-free recording
- Records directly to micro SD and SDHC cards up to 512 GB
- Records 44.1kHz/32-bit or 48kHz/32-bit WAV files
- Rec Hold function to avoid accidental operation of buttons
- Runs on 2 standard AAA alkaline, Lithium, or NiMH rechargeable batteries for up to 14 hours
- 32-Bit Float recording for clip free recording and no gain adjustment
- Built-in Bluetooth for connection to the F2 Control app for settings adjustment and remote transport control (Bluetooth Model only)
- Records directly to micro SD and SDHC cards up to 512 GB
- Records 44.1kHz/32-bit or 48kHz/32-bit audio files
- Runs on only 2 standard AAA alkaline, Lithium, or NiMH rechargeable batteries
- Records 4k/30p HD 150° wide-angle lens (F2.8/15.2 mm) with 5 field of view (fov)
- Built in X/Y stereo microphones for superior audio up to 24-bit/96kHz
- Use as a Webcam for Livestreaming, Remote Learning, and Teleconferencing with Mac and PC
- 12 preset lighting scenes including “auto” smart selector
- Perfect or Musicians, Teachers, Youtube, and Working From Home
How to choose a good field recorder
Does the idea of finding a fantastic field recorder make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in field recorder. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top field recorder products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top field recorder on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top field recorder brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top field recorder based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the field recorder were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good field recorder, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your field recorder.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting field recorder for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our field recorder. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what field recorder should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on field recorder.
