Ok, here is everything you ever wanted to know and were afraid to ask on the DS-50. I copied this from the Amazon site. They are indicating approximately 1 to 2 weeks for delivery. A Review of the Olympus DS-50 Digital Recorder. Record a full month of sound by remote control. This unit is made mostly for people who are conference recording. This is not a dictation recorder. It does well in meetings and any situation you want to record alot of people in a room. In addition to capturing stereo sound from meetings, interviews and other critical information expected of professional digital recorders, you can control recording and stop functions with the included remote control. The super-high-quality sound is also great for dictation * it's the ideal professional audio device. Features: 275 HOURS 20 MINUTES RECORDING TIME. Enjoy over 275 hours of continuous recording time in LP mode with 1GB of internal flash memory. HIGH-SENSITIVITY DETACHABLE STEREO MICROPHONE. Capture the richness you want with super-high-quality sound. VOICE GUIDANCE. Ensures seamless operation of various complex functions. DSS PLAYER VER.7 SOFTWARE. Supports the automatic download of Podcast contents. Specifications: Stores highly compressed WMA (Windows Media Audio) format voice messages in integrated flash memory. · Playback and store WMA and MP3 music files. · High-sensitivity detachable stereo microphone included, offering excellent portability. · Built-in monaural microphone for monaural recording. · Three modes of microphone sensitivity to meet recording needs. · Several recording modes can be selected including stereo recording modes ST XQ or ST HQ, and three types of monaural recording modes including HQ, SP, and LP. · Five voice folders can save up to 200 messages per folder. Music, Podcast, and Audible folder are also available. · New, brighter high-contrast monochrome LCD panel with backlight. · The voice guidance feature gives audio notification of operating conditions. It ensures seamless operation of various complex functions. · Built-in Variable Control Voice Actuator (VCVA) function. · Timer Recording and Alarm features enable automatic recording and playing at a set time. · The Low Cut Filter minimizes air conditioner noise and other similar noises while recording. · Index mark and temp mark features allow you to quickly find desired locations. · Variable playback speed can be controlled as preferred. · Choose from four playback functions: Repeat, Skip, Fast, and Slow. · Noise Cancel Function and Voice Filter Function cut noise and enable clear audio playback. · Can be used as a USB microphone or USB speaker. · Can be utilized as external memory to store pictures, text data, etc. · An included remote control (RS29) can be attached to the recorder to control recording and stop functions. · DSS Player Software (included) enables easy archiving, editing and further processing of recordings. · By registering favorite Podcast programs in DSS Player, you can download the latest broadcasting content automatically. New content can be transferred to the recorder simply by connecting it to a computer. · Compatible with Audible.com files. Store and listen to audible contents purchased from Audible.com in the recorder. · The optional AC adapter is available for longer recording. · Up to 32 hours of continuous operation with two AAA batteries. Recording Format WMA (Windows Media Audio) Recording Media Built-in 1GB flash memory Recording Time ST XQ mode: 17 hours 30 minutes ST HQ mode: 35 hours 10 minutes HQ mode: 70 hours 20 minutes SP mode: 138 hours 30 minutes LP mode: 275 hours 20 minutes Card Format N/A Input Level -70 dBv PC Interface USB LCD Yes LED Yes Folders Messages 5/200 per folder Sampling Frequency STXQ/STHQ/HQ: 44.1 kHz /SP: 22 kHz /LP: 8kHz Overall Frequency Response STXQ: 50-19000Hz/ STHQ: 50-16000Hz/ HQ: 50-13000Hz/ SP:100-8000Hz/ LP:100-3000Hz LP Mode Yes Voice Activation Available, Switchable On/Off Demographic Data Input N/A Practical Maximum Output 250 mW Write Protection Yes Speaker 23 mm diameter round dynamic speaker Microphone Jack 3.5 mm mini-jack, impedance 680 Ohm Earphone Jack 3.5 mm mini-jack, impedance 8 Ohm or more Power Supply Rated Voltage: 3V DC Batteries: Two AAA External Power Supply: AC Adapter Batteries Two AAA batteries External Power Supply Available Battery Life Approx. 32 hours (using alkaline dry cell battery) Size 3.78"L x 1.48"W x 0.63"D (without protrusions) Weight 2.58oz (73.0g) including battery OS Supported Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional/XP Professional,Home Edition CPU Intel Pentium II class 333 MHz processor or more RAM 128 MB or more (256MB or more is recommended) Sound Board Creative Labs Sound Blaster 16 or 100% compatible sound card Video Card and Display 800 x 600 pixels or more, 256 colors or more Removable Drive 2x or faster CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM drive USB Port One free port Audio Output Speaker or earphone output Package Contents: DS-50 Digital Voice Recorder * Stereo microphone * USB cable * Remote control * Carrying case * Stereo earphones * DSS Player Ver.7 Software * Instruction Manual * Two AAA batteries David Tanner Rehabilitation Program Specialist 3 Assistive Technology Specialist Assistive Technology Department MN State Services f/t Blind Office- 651-642-0795 Cell- 651-270-2233 Skype name: dtat100 >>> maryemerson@xxxxxxxxxxxxx 1/7/2007 8:48 AM >>> Jeremiah, Here is the press release I found after doing a google search; at this point, the machines are so new and haven't been released yet, so there don't appear to be any technical details. I even looked for a manual on the Olympus America site, and it's not there yet. Three New Digital Audio Recorders for Note-Taking at Work, and Podcasts, Audio Books and Music at Play CENTER VALLEY, Pa., January 4, 2007 * Olympus unveils three new DS-Series digital voice recorders that bridge the gap between work and play. In addition to capturing audio of meetings, interviews and other critical information expected of digital recorders, the new Olympus DS-30, DS-40 and DS-50 are optimized for downloading, listening to and creating podcasts. The new recorders' high sound quality is also great for listening to audio books and music, making them the all-in-one audio device. Software included with the devices makes downloading podcasts easy, and the podcasts' contents are updated automatically each time the audio recorder is connected to or "synchronized" with a computer. Podcasts and other audio content can be downloaded from any Web site. The new voice recorders are also specifically designed to work with Audible.com, a leading online provider of audio books and other spoken entertainment and information. "Olympus has done a fantastic job designing the new DS-Series, in particular the voice guidance feature will have great appeal to both commuters and the visually impaired community. This functionality is a great asset to anyone that relies upon Audible for its audio programming," said Chia-Lin Simmons, vice president Strategic Alliances, Audible, Inc. "We are confident that the combination of Audible's vast audio selection with Olympus, the technology leader in digital voice recording, will be well received." The voice recorders are also distinguished by a number of premium features, including: The highest sound quality in the Olympus line-up with the new XSHQ Remarkable Stereo Sound Quality mode. The new DS-Series devices can record and play audio content up to 44.1 kilohertz (kHz), which is equal to the sound quality of most CDs. A convenient removable stereo microphone for recording high-quality digital audio. A "Voice Guidance" function that talks, confirming which settings have been selected and helping visually challenged users to navigate the device. Built-in memory from 256MB to 512MB to one gigabyte that enables amazingly long recording times ranging up to 275 hours. "PC Link" enables the recorders to connect to a PC via the included USB cable for quick downloading of audio files to and from a computer. "Our DS-Series voice recorders have been used for years by professionals such as doctors and lawyers to capture audio throughout their workday," said Andy Flagg, director, Sales and Marketing, Olympus Imaging America Inc. "These new devices have moved from the hospital and courtroom into their personal lives. With stereo headphones and up to one gigabyte memory, the new devices are optimal for holding virtual libraries of music, audio books and podcasts, as well as the traditional voice recordings." Intelligent & Stylish Design These DS-Series recorders are sleek road warriors that can go anywhere to capture audio for podcasts and interviews. As podcasters join the ranks of lawyers, doctors and other professionals who use voice recorders, they can rest assured that they will have what it takes to get the job done. The new DS-Series have microphones that can detach from their bodies and attach to a remote controller (an optional accessory) to allow podcasters to clip the DS-Series' microphone onto a shirt or tie and record in high fidelity at the flip of a switch. Recording in this unobtrusive manner with the recorder tucked away in a pocket helps to keep an interviewee at ease, which in turn can lead to more entertaining and informative podcasts. Designed for optimal ergonomics with a high attention to detail, the recorders feature a speaker for audio playback on the back, buttons for recording and playback on the side, and easy-to-use arrow pads and buttons to navigate menus on the front. Olympus even created a power on/off sliding switch so users wouldn't accidentally turn it on. Coated in a sleek metallic exterior for durability, all three models come with large, easy-to-read high-contrast LCD screens that display file information, recording time and settings. The DS-30 features a silver casing with an amber backlight LCD screen. The DS-40 features a dark silver casing with a white backlight LCD screen. The DS-50 features a blue casing with a white backlight LCD screen. Voice Confirmation and Instruction Manual The three new devices offer a voice confirmation function that can be turned on or off. When turned on, the function enables the devices to speak, helping users to navigate the folders and various set-up options. The pleasant automated voice guides users through the onscreen menus for setting date, time and other menu selecting modes. It also confirms by stating the folder name as the user moves from one folder to another. This enables visually challenged users to easily move through the device's menus, folders and set-up options. An instruction manual will also be available to users as an audio file. Much like any audio book, this option enables users to listen to the instruction manual for quick and easy use. Music Recording and Playback Both MP3 and WMA (Windows Media Audio) files can be downloaded and played back on the device. This provides users with extreme flexibility, enabling them to use one device for recording meetings / lectures for work or school, while also enjoying music and audio books for fun. Timer Recording Mode A Timer Recording mode is available for instances when a recording needs to begin at a specific time. It works by setting a beginning time to start recording and an end time to stop recording. This feature is valuable for those who do not want to call attention to the fact that they're making a recording by pushing the record button, or when timing is essential to capture the recording. Variable Speed Playback Users of the new DS-Series digital recorders will appreciate the control provided by the variable speed playback settings. After capture, the slow playback option allows recordings to be listened to efficiently with playback that is up to 50 percent slower than real time, and fast playback that is up to 50 percent faster than real time. Slow playback helps to eliminate the need for users to listen to the same recording multiple times to hear what was said, and with fast playback they can skip ahead to the essential sections - a real benefit for transcribing dictation. Long Lasting Power The DS-Series digital voice recorders have up to 32 hours of continuous operation made possible by the long battery life of two AAA batteries. An AC power supply is also available. The DS-Series digital voice recorders also feature a one-year warranty. Availability The DS-30, DS-40 and DS-50 will be available in January 2007. Accessories include stereo microphone, USB Cable, stereo earphones, a DSS Player Version 7 Software CD-ROM and two AAA-alkaline batteries. DS-50 additionally includes a remote control and carrying case. U.S. Pricing DS-30 Digital Voice Recorder Estimated Street Price: $149.99 (U.S.) DS-40 Digital Voice Recorder Estimated Street Price: $199.99 (U.S.) DS-50 Digital Voice Recorder Estimated Street Price: $249.99 (U.S.) Review units and high-resolution images of the DS-Series Digital Voice Recorders are available from Mullen Public Relations. Contact Jeff Hluchyj, (978) 468-8939 or Jeff.Hluchyj@xxxxxxxxxxx For more information contact Jennifer Lyons, public relations manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc., 484-896-5350, Jennifer.Lyons@xxxxxxxxxxx, Olympus Imaging America Inc., 3500 Corporate Parkway, Center Valley, Pennsylvania 18034, or the Olympus Web site: http://www.olympusamerica.com. Mary Emerson E-mail: maryemerson@xxxxxxxxxxxxx Podcast web site: http://www.emerson.libsyn.com Podcast feed: emerson.libsyn.com/rss
BEGIN:VCARD VERSION:2.1 X-GWTYPE:USER FN:Tanner, David TEL;WORK:651-642-0795 ORG:;SSB TEL;PREF;FAX:651-649-5927 EMAIL;WORK;PREF;NGW:DTANNER@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx N:Tanner;David TITLE:Rehab Tech Spec END:VCARD