14 DAY TRIAL // Dictation machines represent one of the most important "weapons" in the arsenal of any professional journalist, this being one of the reasons why they've managed to survive the transition into the digital era without being transformed into just another "complementary" function of a more complex device. And in order to provide a full range of offerings for the aforementioned consumer segment, Sony has unveiled no less than seven new models, divided into entry-level, mid-range and high-end versions.
Sony's new lineup begins with three high-end models, namely the ICDSX68, ICDSX78 and ICDSX78DR9. These professional digital dictation machines provide high quality stereo recording with an 80-20,000Hz close-to-CD frequency range, as well as a built-in memory of 512MB (SX68) and 1GB (SX78) respectively.
Other major points of attraction are the high sensitivity, built-in triple microphone for centre focusing or stereo recording capability (very good for interviews, meetings and recording music), the digital Voice Up function, which allows volume adjustment to highlight quieter voices in play back mode as well as the digital pitch control, allowing playback of recordings to be heard at an increased or slower speed without distortion for transcribing or editing requirements.
Next in line is the ICDUX60B mid-range model, which offers a built-in memory of 512MB at a lower price point, while still offering 144hrs 30min recording time. The ICDUX60B also offers MP3 stereo recording and playback for music on the move. Other features include an USB direct connection for easy 'Drag and drop' file transfer of voice recordings and MP3 files, voice-operated recording and digital pitch control.
Sony's new lineup ends with the ICDB600, ICDP620 and ICDP630F entry level versions, which feature longer recording capacities at 300hrs for ICDB600 and 260hrs for ICDP620 and ICDP630F in long play (LP) mode. The devices sport 512MB of internal memory, while other features include an Add Recording Function, allowing users to continue/add-to a pre-recorded file, a speaker output of 250mW, as well as a PC Link function, which allows file conversion to MP3 or WAV by using supplied Digital Voice Editor software (ICDP620 and ICDP630F only).
"The market for digital dictation machines is still very important, particularly with voice recognition software making transcription easier", said Mikuni Shikada, product manager, Sony Europe's IT Peripherals division. "With voice recognition, audio quality becomes a paramount issue. Sony is able to extend its audio heritage to the voice recording market and introduces seven new additions to its digital dictation machine range to meet the key consumer requirements in digital dictation."
Although no pricing information has been provided for any of the new models, we do know that they'll be available from April 2008 in Sony stores across Europe.
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