I was enjoying a meal with my wife the other day at a local restaurant. After we ate, we decided to sit at the bar and have a drink while watching the local band play a few numbers. As I looked around at the small crowd of people, I couldn’t help but wonder if there were any hidden surveillance cameras in the bar. (Being in the hidden camera industry, I tend to be a little paranoid about being watched)
But this time my paranoia was justified. As I glanced over at the display of liquor bottles on the shelf, there it was, a dark bottle of wine with a small hole not much bigger than a pencil eraser right in the side of the bottle.
I leaned forward and gave a little smile, then I waved, and then I stuck my tongue out at the bottle. After a few minutes of my peculiar behavior, the manager came over to ask me if I was O.K. When I explained that I was just showing off for the camera, he seemed clearly surprised that I knew it was there. When I explained what I did for a living, he gave me a perceptive nod of his head and asked if I would please not tell anyone else about the hidden camera. “It’s there for security purposes” he said “just to keep an eye on things”. I agreed not to let his secret out, and the free drinks he gave to my wife, and me sealed the deal. I wasn’t going to say anything.
While it was easy to spot cameras twenty or thirty years ago due to their large size, this has become increasingly difficult in recent years. Cameras have become much smaller and consume a fraction of the power that they did just a few years ago. Due to this, hidden cameras can be installed in nearly any place you can imagine.
Hidden cameras are easy to use, readily available, and the dropping prices are making them very affordable. In fact hidden cameras can be purchased, installed and operated even by the average citizen these days.
Hidden cameras are very easy to hide due to the fact that the basic unit is generally nothing more than a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) “board camera”. A board camera is a camera fully contained on a single circuit board including camera optics and all the electronics needed for generating the video signal. Board cameras range in size but on the average they are approximately 1½ X 1½ inches, which makes them very easy to hide in even the most inconspicuous places. Most of these board cameras only need an opening of about 1mm in their hiding places for complete room surveillance. From there, the video signal can be sent to the receiver and either watched in real time or recorded for later viewing, or both.
Another type of camera that has shown up more recently is based on CMOS technology. CMOS cameras are gaining ground with consumer products such as handheld devices, photo capable cell phones, and webcams.
Miniature CMOS cameras usually come as modules packaged in small plastic cases, and are about half the price of CCD cameras, less sensitive to electrical distortions and consume far less power. They can also be built much smaller than CCD cameras. CMOS cameras have disadvantages as well. CMOS cameras are not as light sensitive, which mean that the image quality is not as good under low light conditions.
Another disadvantage is the lower picture quality in general, as the individual pixels can be quite noisy. Technology is catching up with this issue though, and CMOS cameras are likely to supersede CCD cameras within the next few years.
Due to the small size of these imaging devices, they can be placed into compact everyday items such as alarm clocks, wall clocks, and even small kitchen appliances can house a hidden camera.
To make a long story short, miniature cameras are small, very small, and they can be hidden in more places than you could ever possibly imagine looking for them. So the next time you’re out at a restaurant, or in a business meeting, or even at a friend’s house, look around and ask yourself, am I being watched? Or maybe just paranoid?
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Motorola Ring Tone- Milestone In Ringtone History
Literally speaking, there are not only tens but hundreds of cell phone models that are sold in the market. Sometimes, you will run out of time in choosing the best that you think will fit your needs. Dozens of manufacturers are also competing in the world of technology. Over time, new features and versions are being advertised in billboards and televisions that caught your attention.
The decision of making a choice on your cell phone is crucial although for some it is just a quick one especially for those people who can afford to change their units monthly or even weekly. The customers cannot be blamed about this attitude because in the first place, the innovative features that are being presented by the manufacturers are incomparable.
Fooling as they seem but it is indeed true. There are cell phones that are appealing to your eyes but the features are not commendable though some are on top rank when it comes to quality. One is the Nokia Manufacturer. It is known for its credibility in the different fields of cell phone technology. This is also one of the pioneering companies of cell phones.
When you try to choose one, you have to consider certain criteria. These are important determinants for you to arrive at a good choice and these include quality design, dependability, handiness and over all user satisfaction. If you are able to find all those factors in one, then you will not regret your choice.
Aside from Nokia, another brand of cell phone that marks the mind of the users and subscribers is the Motorola. Yes, it is also tested for high quality, resolution and tones. In fact, some of the clients of cell phones prefer to buy Motorola because of its quality and affordability.
Some of the regarded features of Motorola cell phones are 10-second video capture and playback, mega pixel cam with digital zoom, Led spotlight to bring more emphasis to the picture and many more. The multimedia service also allows the users to transfer data from one cell phone to another in just a flick of a finger.
Above other important features of Motorola cell phones is the ringtone. The phone is designed to have its own Media Center where the user can manage all images, voice recordings and ring tones. This is the reason why the tones are organized in the phones to a specific area.
The quality of the ringtone that you will hear from a Motorola phone is very pleasant to your ears because this is also polyphonic. There are some easy ways on how you can transfer the most recent tones in your cell phones; it can be through a direct purchase to your network or better do a free download from the Internet.
It is much better to download tones in the Net because you will not consume big amount of money. Aside from that, you can also choose your favorite version and composer of the song. It can be done with the use of your Personal computers via USB.
From the built in composers of ringtone in your old phones, Motorola now brings a milestone in ringtone history. This can be cherished and even more improved in the next generations.
There are more to come. However, let us enjoy first what we have these days.
The decision of making a choice on your cell phone is crucial although for some it is just a quick one especially for those people who can afford to change their units monthly or even weekly. The customers cannot be blamed about this attitude because in the first place, the innovative features that are being presented by the manufacturers are incomparable.
Fooling as they seem but it is indeed true. There are cell phones that are appealing to your eyes but the features are not commendable though some are on top rank when it comes to quality. One is the Nokia Manufacturer. It is known for its credibility in the different fields of cell phone technology. This is also one of the pioneering companies of cell phones.
When you try to choose one, you have to consider certain criteria. These are important determinants for you to arrive at a good choice and these include quality design, dependability, handiness and over all user satisfaction. If you are able to find all those factors in one, then you will not regret your choice.
Aside from Nokia, another brand of cell phone that marks the mind of the users and subscribers is the Motorola. Yes, it is also tested for high quality, resolution and tones. In fact, some of the clients of cell phones prefer to buy Motorola because of its quality and affordability.
Some of the regarded features of Motorola cell phones are 10-second video capture and playback, mega pixel cam with digital zoom, Led spotlight to bring more emphasis to the picture and many more. The multimedia service also allows the users to transfer data from one cell phone to another in just a flick of a finger.
Above other important features of Motorola cell phones is the ringtone. The phone is designed to have its own Media Center where the user can manage all images, voice recordings and ring tones. This is the reason why the tones are organized in the phones to a specific area.
The quality of the ringtone that you will hear from a Motorola phone is very pleasant to your ears because this is also polyphonic. There are some easy ways on how you can transfer the most recent tones in your cell phones; it can be through a direct purchase to your network or better do a free download from the Internet.
It is much better to download tones in the Net because you will not consume big amount of money. Aside from that, you can also choose your favorite version and composer of the song. It can be done with the use of your Personal computers via USB.
From the built in composers of ringtone in your old phones, Motorola now brings a milestone in ringtone history. This can be cherished and even more improved in the next generations.
There are more to come. However, let us enjoy first what we have these days.
The Nintendo Wii is NOT the Game Cube
As Nintendo chief Miyamoto says about the Wii…
‘The hardware is basically a GC. We’ve upgraded our development tools to new versions but, you can still use GC programs as they are. With that in mind, I thought we could remake GC titles for the Wii and modify them to work with the Wii remote so that they’re more fun to play.’
This statement been making its speedy journey around the web, with the predictable result.
‘i tuld u tha Wee sux0rs!’ ‘Thus proving the Wii is infact.. a repackaged gamecube’ ‘Rofl @ Nintendo’
The argument need to be split in half to avoid confusion. Lumping the two arguments together ends in a negative situation, where neither of the debating parties can influence the opposition.
Firstly, The Wii is GameCube 1.5?
Miyamoto, in his cute little ‘Wish we had an international auxillary language to stop english speaking ‘l33t’ gamers from mocking our consumers’ way, was accurate with his statement. The hardware is similar to the GameCube. WAIT! Don’t go running away just yet, for here is a word equation that will float your boat.
The Nintendo Wii hardware is similar to the Gamecube, as A gaming PC is similar to a Windows 95 word processing computer.
What! Says you, but my ‘uber el33tzo0r’ Gaming PC has 4 GB of Ram! It has 6.7 Gigahertz of processing power! THINK. Instead of thinking about the technological specifics of ‘hardware capabilities’, when the above statement is made, one is referring to the style in which hardware and software are created. The Architecture of the device.
Going out on another tangent, Nintendo would not be stupid enough to make the GameCube mistake again. The GC was not a high point for flailing Nintendo. Why now, riding on the success of the Nintendo DS, an innovative handheld device that has taken the world by storm, would Nintendo choose to release an updated version of a failure?
Wii Vs Xbox360 Vs Playstation3
To be blatantly honest, the next-gen console battle will be fought between the Xbox360, and the Playstation3. Unfortunately for Sony and Microsoft, they have launched products capable of the same types of activities, with the same types of controls and the same types of games. It’s a marketing battle to see who will triumph. But for those looking for new, innovative [ie: Not BluRay] technology with an element of fun and a totally unique experience will choose the Wii. There is nothing else on the market to compete with it.
So who would buy the Wii? Just little kids right? Nintendo has many different demographics to target. From the very young, to the very old. The DS has opened the eyes of previously video game free generations, and inspired those just entering the market, as well as gameboy fans looking for a quality handheld. Half-core gamers want something fresh. they want to play with their friends and have fun. They don’t want to shell out big bucks for a gaming system, but would be happy to pay a much lower price for entertainment.
You can not compare consoles on specifications alone. You must use implementation examples to compare things. On paper, the Playstation 3 is the strongest console. Better than the Wii, better than the Xbox360. But does it have quality games? Will there be many games? Will Sony finally be able to create a game that creates a third of the hype that Halo does? Until all consoles have been released internationally, it is futile to argue over which console is ’superior’ and which will succeed.
The Nintendo Wii is not a Game Cube. As the old saying goes, it’s like comparing apples and oranges. Both are in the same general class, yet there are fundamental differences that make comparing them pointless.
‘The hardware is basically a GC. We’ve upgraded our development tools to new versions but, you can still use GC programs as they are. With that in mind, I thought we could remake GC titles for the Wii and modify them to work with the Wii remote so that they’re more fun to play.’
This statement been making its speedy journey around the web, with the predictable result.
‘i tuld u tha Wee sux0rs!’ ‘Thus proving the Wii is infact.. a repackaged gamecube’ ‘Rofl @ Nintendo’
The argument need to be split in half to avoid confusion. Lumping the two arguments together ends in a negative situation, where neither of the debating parties can influence the opposition.
Firstly, The Wii is GameCube 1.5?
Miyamoto, in his cute little ‘Wish we had an international auxillary language to stop english speaking ‘l33t’ gamers from mocking our consumers’ way, was accurate with his statement. The hardware is similar to the GameCube. WAIT! Don’t go running away just yet, for here is a word equation that will float your boat.
The Nintendo Wii hardware is similar to the Gamecube, as A gaming PC is similar to a Windows 95 word processing computer.
What! Says you, but my ‘uber el33tzo0r’ Gaming PC has 4 GB of Ram! It has 6.7 Gigahertz of processing power! THINK. Instead of thinking about the technological specifics of ‘hardware capabilities’, when the above statement is made, one is referring to the style in which hardware and software are created. The Architecture of the device.
Going out on another tangent, Nintendo would not be stupid enough to make the GameCube mistake again. The GC was not a high point for flailing Nintendo. Why now, riding on the success of the Nintendo DS, an innovative handheld device that has taken the world by storm, would Nintendo choose to release an updated version of a failure?
Wii Vs Xbox360 Vs Playstation3
To be blatantly honest, the next-gen console battle will be fought between the Xbox360, and the Playstation3. Unfortunately for Sony and Microsoft, they have launched products capable of the same types of activities, with the same types of controls and the same types of games. It’s a marketing battle to see who will triumph. But for those looking for new, innovative [ie: Not BluRay] technology with an element of fun and a totally unique experience will choose the Wii. There is nothing else on the market to compete with it.
So who would buy the Wii? Just little kids right? Nintendo has many different demographics to target. From the very young, to the very old. The DS has opened the eyes of previously video game free generations, and inspired those just entering the market, as well as gameboy fans looking for a quality handheld. Half-core gamers want something fresh. they want to play with their friends and have fun. They don’t want to shell out big bucks for a gaming system, but would be happy to pay a much lower price for entertainment.
You can not compare consoles on specifications alone. You must use implementation examples to compare things. On paper, the Playstation 3 is the strongest console. Better than the Wii, better than the Xbox360. But does it have quality games? Will there be many games? Will Sony finally be able to create a game that creates a third of the hype that Halo does? Until all consoles have been released internationally, it is futile to argue over which console is ’superior’ and which will succeed.
The Nintendo Wii is not a Game Cube. As the old saying goes, it’s like comparing apples and oranges. Both are in the same general class, yet there are fundamental differences that make comparing them pointless.
Amp'd Mobile Phones: Can Your Phone Do This?
Amp'd Mobile has phone features that are extraordinary and will meet the expections of the younger generation! Something that will being ringing in our ears will be, "Don't you wish your cell phone was hot like this?" Say good bye to live Larry King streaming video!
Amp'd Mobile is springing forward with such powerful features, that other cell phone companies will watch and learn. The most ingenuis marketing move is using viral videos. Amp'd Mobile phones will allow the use of not just listening to music, but also downloading crazy videos. The use of humor in marketing is extremely effective and is the driving force behind the success of many large corporations. When you see a person laughing at their phone, it just might be a funny video!
Amp'd Mobile cell phones will let you surf the web, play games, access sports information, download music at speeds that will make your jaw drop. Amp'd Mobile does claim to have the fastest speeds in North America! If your looking for some flashy style, that will make your friends take notice, then Amp'd Mobile will meet your desires. Be prepared for the ultimate in dazzling entertainment from Amp'd Mobile.
Let's take a quick look at Amp'd Mobiles cutting edge technology: Text and multi-media messaging support, a vivid 256k color display, EV-DO high-speed data access, a built-in camera with flash and video capture, push-to-talk/walkie-talkie functionality, and a built-in speakerphone. This has got to be the hottest high-tech candy for entertainment on earth!
Let's face it, we have become a society that is so strongly dependent on cell phone technology, that we cannot live without a cell phone. Asurion insurance is the company, that covers the Amp'd Mobile cell phones. If your phone is lost, stolen or damaged Asurion is the ultimate insurance provider. Keep in mind you will need to file a police report for lost or stolen phones.
Wireless Network Magazine said, "Amp'd Mobile brings communications to the next level by providing a smorgasbord of entertainment options to the cellular phones of their subscribers."
Imagine your out somewhere and you set your Amp'd Mobile cell phone down on a table, next thing you know it is gone! This is happening to a lot of Amp'd Mobile cell phone users and this will continue to increase. The Amp'd Mobile phones are very expensive and this makes them a desirable target for stealing.
If you have an Amp'd Mobile cell phone, do not set it down anywhere! Do not leave your cell phone in a car or lay it down in a cab seat! I have heard of cell phones being stolen out of a persons house, while entertaining friends! You may being asking yourself, "why would someone steal a cell phone?" People can use the phone and rack up thousands of minutes, so you want to contact your service provider and have it deactivated immediately. It is wise to have a back up for your cell phone contacts, just in case your cell phone is stolen.
If your phone is stolen and has a lot of personal pictures in it, then someone will be enjoying your personal life! Not to mention, your pictures could be uploaded to the internet! Again, you have to implement a strategy for protecting your cell phone. Worthless belt clips will lead to insurance claims and partying in night clubs is an easy way for someone to snatch your cell phone!
Amp'd Mobile is springing forward with such powerful features, that other cell phone companies will watch and learn. The most ingenuis marketing move is using viral videos. Amp'd Mobile phones will allow the use of not just listening to music, but also downloading crazy videos. The use of humor in marketing is extremely effective and is the driving force behind the success of many large corporations. When you see a person laughing at their phone, it just might be a funny video!
Amp'd Mobile cell phones will let you surf the web, play games, access sports information, download music at speeds that will make your jaw drop. Amp'd Mobile does claim to have the fastest speeds in North America! If your looking for some flashy style, that will make your friends take notice, then Amp'd Mobile will meet your desires. Be prepared for the ultimate in dazzling entertainment from Amp'd Mobile.
Let's take a quick look at Amp'd Mobiles cutting edge technology: Text and multi-media messaging support, a vivid 256k color display, EV-DO high-speed data access, a built-in camera with flash and video capture, push-to-talk/walkie-talkie functionality, and a built-in speakerphone. This has got to be the hottest high-tech candy for entertainment on earth!
Let's face it, we have become a society that is so strongly dependent on cell phone technology, that we cannot live without a cell phone. Asurion insurance is the company, that covers the Amp'd Mobile cell phones. If your phone is lost, stolen or damaged Asurion is the ultimate insurance provider. Keep in mind you will need to file a police report for lost or stolen phones.
Wireless Network Magazine said, "Amp'd Mobile brings communications to the next level by providing a smorgasbord of entertainment options to the cellular phones of their subscribers."
Imagine your out somewhere and you set your Amp'd Mobile cell phone down on a table, next thing you know it is gone! This is happening to a lot of Amp'd Mobile cell phone users and this will continue to increase. The Amp'd Mobile phones are very expensive and this makes them a desirable target for stealing.
If you have an Amp'd Mobile cell phone, do not set it down anywhere! Do not leave your cell phone in a car or lay it down in a cab seat! I have heard of cell phones being stolen out of a persons house, while entertaining friends! You may being asking yourself, "why would someone steal a cell phone?" People can use the phone and rack up thousands of minutes, so you want to contact your service provider and have it deactivated immediately. It is wise to have a back up for your cell phone contacts, just in case your cell phone is stolen.
If your phone is stolen and has a lot of personal pictures in it, then someone will be enjoying your personal life! Not to mention, your pictures could be uploaded to the internet! Again, you have to implement a strategy for protecting your cell phone. Worthless belt clips will lead to insurance claims and partying in night clubs is an easy way for someone to snatch your cell phone!
Shopping Survival Tips for Moms
Each month there are special days to celebrate, whether it is someone's birthday, anniversary or a major holiday. Many times the task of choosing gifts becomes Mom's responsibility.
Getting Started
It is good to organize your list if you are shopping for the holidays or several things at one time. Before you go, write suggestions on your list for the gifts you have to buy.
Making choices for individuals is sometimes the hardest part of shopping. Relating to a person's interests or hobbies can be helpful to get started. For someone who likes to use computers and laptops, buy accessories for them, such as Skype extra services. Other popular electronic gifts are Xbox and video games. Children and grandchildren will get many hours of pleasure in these activities.
Traditional gifts are always appreciated. For ladies, jewelry, perfume, and clothing accessories. If the man you know is hard to buy for, consider a gift card, luggage, gym bag or laptop bag. Gifts for the home could be decorative or ornamental, such as a water fountain for the front yard, pewter charger plates, holiday decorations, food gifts, and floral arrangements.
Before You Buy
Before shopping, take time to research products and browse the sale papers to find the best prices. As you make your list, decide on the prices you can afford for each item and stay within your budget so you don't come up short. Many times toys, electronics and computers have a wide range of prices. It might be wise to compare before you shop instead of impulsively buying the first one you see in a store. You may be able to save on one item and spend a little more on another one and stay within your budget.
More people are finding out what a convenience it can be to shop online. There you can search out products and compare brands and prices without leaving home. When shopping online, keep in mind shipping costs that will be added to the final prices. There are sites that offer discount shipping when you purchase multiple items. This could save in the final costs. Some of the best bargains are at online auctions and discount store web sites. Also, by state law you aren't charged sales taxes on purchases made outside your state.
Be Prepared
If you decide to go shopping at your favorite stores, make sure you are prepared. Have your list ready and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Start shopping early and during the week instead of waiting for the weekend. Also, buy heavy gifts last to avoid carrying them around all day and take advantage of gift-wrapping. These practical steps will make your shopping experience more enjoyable.
Getting Started
It is good to organize your list if you are shopping for the holidays or several things at one time. Before you go, write suggestions on your list for the gifts you have to buy.
Making choices for individuals is sometimes the hardest part of shopping. Relating to a person's interests or hobbies can be helpful to get started. For someone who likes to use computers and laptops, buy accessories for them, such as Skype extra services. Other popular electronic gifts are Xbox and video games. Children and grandchildren will get many hours of pleasure in these activities.
Traditional gifts are always appreciated. For ladies, jewelry, perfume, and clothing accessories. If the man you know is hard to buy for, consider a gift card, luggage, gym bag or laptop bag. Gifts for the home could be decorative or ornamental, such as a water fountain for the front yard, pewter charger plates, holiday decorations, food gifts, and floral arrangements.
Before You Buy
Before shopping, take time to research products and browse the sale papers to find the best prices. As you make your list, decide on the prices you can afford for each item and stay within your budget so you don't come up short. Many times toys, electronics and computers have a wide range of prices. It might be wise to compare before you shop instead of impulsively buying the first one you see in a store. You may be able to save on one item and spend a little more on another one and stay within your budget.
More people are finding out what a convenience it can be to shop online. There you can search out products and compare brands and prices without leaving home. When shopping online, keep in mind shipping costs that will be added to the final prices. There are sites that offer discount shipping when you purchase multiple items. This could save in the final costs. Some of the best bargains are at online auctions and discount store web sites. Also, by state law you aren't charged sales taxes on purchases made outside your state.
Be Prepared
If you decide to go shopping at your favorite stores, make sure you are prepared. Have your list ready and wear comfortable clothes and shoes. Start shopping early and during the week instead of waiting for the weekend. Also, buy heavy gifts last to avoid carrying them around all day and take advantage of gift-wrapping. These practical steps will make your shopping experience more enjoyable.
Football Crazy Wall Clock
Do you know someone who is football crazy? Is your Dad a footy nut? Is your brother a soccer Fanatic? This is possibly the bestest Crimbo pressie you can make them. You can make it fit any football team of your choosing, or add an assortment of football teams. You could also adapt this idea to make a net-ball, basketball, or rugby clock.
To make a Football Crazy Wall Clock you will need...
Paint, thick card or an old grocery box, a clock mechanism and clock hands (you will find these at craft shops) and a print out of pattern of football shirts which is available at the link below.
Colour the football shirts in the team’s strip you choose. You can colour them randomly if you wish. Number each shirt 1 to 12.
To make the clock face, draw around a large dinner plate or a tea tray onto some card. An old grocery box is great. Cut out two identical circles, and glue them together so that the lines in the cards structure cross, this will give the clock face extra strength.
Once the glue is dry, paint the clock face green. Again leave to dry. With white paint, paint on a centre line through the middle of the clock face, and paint a kick off circle in the middle of the clock.
Push a pencil through the centre of the clock face ready to attach the clock mechanism. Be very careful and use the old Plasticine trick - Put a ball of Plasticine on the table, put your card on top of it where you need the hole to be, and push the pencil through the card and into the Plasticine.
Arrange the football shirts on the clock face and stick them down.
Push the clock spindle through the hole and push on the hands. The mechanism has a hole for hanging the clock on the wall.
Put a battery in the clock and set the time.
To make a Football Crazy Wall Clock you will need...
Paint, thick card or an old grocery box, a clock mechanism and clock hands (you will find these at craft shops) and a print out of pattern of football shirts which is available at the link below.
Colour the football shirts in the team’s strip you choose. You can colour them randomly if you wish. Number each shirt 1 to 12.
To make the clock face, draw around a large dinner plate or a tea tray onto some card. An old grocery box is great. Cut out two identical circles, and glue them together so that the lines in the cards structure cross, this will give the clock face extra strength.
Once the glue is dry, paint the clock face green. Again leave to dry. With white paint, paint on a centre line through the middle of the clock face, and paint a kick off circle in the middle of the clock.
Push a pencil through the centre of the clock face ready to attach the clock mechanism. Be very careful and use the old Plasticine trick - Put a ball of Plasticine on the table, put your card on top of it where you need the hole to be, and push the pencil through the card and into the Plasticine.
Arrange the football shirts on the clock face and stick them down.
Push the clock spindle through the hole and push on the hands. The mechanism has a hole for hanging the clock on the wall.
Put a battery in the clock and set the time.
Edirol R-09 Wave/MP3 Recorder Review
My Sony Hi-MD (mini disc) kicked the bucket somewhat prematurely. It chews and chews on a disc without engaging. I suppose the mechanism got mangled on one of my trans-Atlantic flights. I had to drag myself into the modern recording age and invest 300 quid in a flash recorder, AND stump up another 25 for an SD memory card. And do you know what? It was worth it.
The Edirol R-09 by Roland of seventies synthesizer fame won’t win any prizes in a beauty contest. It looks more like an electric shaver than a digital recorder - but that hasn’t stopped me falling in love with it. I’m suspicious of in-built microphones, but those silver grills on the top are pretty good - fine for journalistic notes at any rate. The plastic record and play buttons are big and chunky, but they are dead easy to use without reference to the manual. Even someone like me who is all thumbs and struggles to send a text message can use them with ease. There are buttons on the back for mono or stereo, automatic recording levels, etc. Volume controls are on the side. In other words, you can do most things without scrolling through a menu on the LCD screen. Transfer of sound onto the laptop is a doddle. You plug it into the USB and it becomes an external disc. I just open up SoundForge on my computer and start editing away. I have a 2 Gig SD card so it holds several hours of audio.
And what about the quality? It records in mp3 or WAV, the latter being uncompressed and very high quality indeed. It’s 24 bit, which is ample. You might want more bits for recoding the Boston Philharmonic, but short of that it will do for most things. I find it works best with my microphone routed into the sound mixer via the Line In. When I plugged my Sure SM58 directly into the R-09 I got a certain amount of hiss. Not much, but discernible. Perhaps the impedance does not quite match (or some such technical guff). Edirol recommend buying one of their own external condenser mics, but they would say that, wouldn’t they. I might try a transformer. I would hate to buy yet another mic for out and about interviews, but it might come to that...
The Edirol R-09 by Roland of seventies synthesizer fame won’t win any prizes in a beauty contest. It looks more like an electric shaver than a digital recorder - but that hasn’t stopped me falling in love with it. I’m suspicious of in-built microphones, but those silver grills on the top are pretty good - fine for journalistic notes at any rate. The plastic record and play buttons are big and chunky, but they are dead easy to use without reference to the manual. Even someone like me who is all thumbs and struggles to send a text message can use them with ease. There are buttons on the back for mono or stereo, automatic recording levels, etc. Volume controls are on the side. In other words, you can do most things without scrolling through a menu on the LCD screen. Transfer of sound onto the laptop is a doddle. You plug it into the USB and it becomes an external disc. I just open up SoundForge on my computer and start editing away. I have a 2 Gig SD card so it holds several hours of audio.
And what about the quality? It records in mp3 or WAV, the latter being uncompressed and very high quality indeed. It’s 24 bit, which is ample. You might want more bits for recoding the Boston Philharmonic, but short of that it will do for most things. I find it works best with my microphone routed into the sound mixer via the Line In. When I plugged my Sure SM58 directly into the R-09 I got a certain amount of hiss. Not much, but discernible. Perhaps the impedance does not quite match (or some such technical guff). Edirol recommend buying one of their own external condenser mics, but they would say that, wouldn’t they. I might try a transformer. I would hate to buy yet another mic for out and about interviews, but it might come to that...
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)