Handheld recorders have seen a rise lately due to their versatility. They can be used for music, interviews, lectures and sometimes just for playing around with.
Two great handheld recorders worth looking at are the Sony PCM-M10 and the Zoom H2N.
We’ve taken a look at four categories to determine which handheld we would recommend. The four categories used are: overall product dimensions, memory options, average consumer rating and fun additional features / accessories.
Overall Product Dimensions
With these two products being handheld recorders, product dimensions are pretty important.
The Sony PCM-M10 is a small thing, with dimensions of 2 ½” W x 4 ½” H x 7/8” D. The weight for this handheld is 6 5/8 oz., batteries included.
The Zoom H2N dimensions are comparable to the Sony PCM-M10, with the exception that the Zoom H2N is slightly deeper. The overall dimensions are 2.6” W x 4 ½” H x 1.7” D. The weight is considerably lighter at 4 ½ oz.
Memory Options
The Sony PCM-M10 has a built-in memory of 4GB. For extra storage, the option of dual microSD and memory stick micro slots are available. For ease of use, the Sony PCM-M10 is capable of crossing recordings over memory. This means if you start recording on one format (built-in memory) and finish on another (microSD card) then they can be compiled together without interruptions.
The Zoom H2N has significantly less built-in memory. It has memory enough for one minute in MP3, 96kbps formatting. It does, however, have a regular USB 1.0 full speed slot for a memory stick and a USB 2.0 high speed slot.
Average Consumer Rating
The Sony PCM-M10 has a high average consumer rating of approximately 4.5 stars. One of the high discussed comments about the Sony PCM-M10 is that its sleek design makes it easy to conceal.
The Zoom H2N is also rated with an average consumer rating of 4.5. A large majority of consumers that positively commented on the Zoom H2N were using this handheld recorder primarily for music recording. Their favorite boast about this model is that it has the ability to record in an almost surround-sound style due to its design.
Fun Additional Features / Accessories
There are some great fun features about the Sony PCM-M10. These include:
- 5-second pre-record buffer to get ready
- Built with a rugged, solid design
- Playback functions
- Option to track marking
- Two color options (red and black)
- Cross memory function
- Included with purchase item is the remote control
- Optional accessories for purchase include:
- Windscreen
- Tripod
- Carrying case with built-in speakers
- Regular carrying case
The Zoom H2N also has some outstanding features. They include:
- Five built-in microphones
- Capability to adjust with of stereo image after recorded
- Surround sound recording
- Ability to manually set input level or to choose from preset options
- Two second pre-recording and auto recording
- Data recovery feature to repair corrupt files
- Included accessories with purchase are: manual, 2GB SD card, 2 AA batteries and editing software
- Optional accessories for purchase include:
- Remote control with extension cable
- Widescreen
- AD-17 AC adapter
- USB cable
- Tripod
- Padded/shell case
- Mic clip adapter
Overall Product Recommendation
After thoroughly reviewing these two handhelds, it’s hard to recommend one over the other. If you are serious about recording, or have a lot of music—based recording to do then the recommendation would be with the Zoom H2N.
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If you are looking for a small, simple handheld recorder for interviews or just starting out using a handheld recorder then the Sony PCM-M10 is the best option to go with.
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