When you think of recording a conversation, you probably think of something like a spy or police movie. However, there’re many reasons you might want to record a conversation that has nothing to do with espionage. For example, if you are conducting an interview for a news story or you’re teaching a class and would like to record your lecture for later transcription, a clear recording device can be invaluable.

While your smartphone might have recording capabilities, these are nothing compared to a professional grade recorder. With a proper recording device, you can record in nearly any environment, even outdoors on a windy day. And because these recording devices are able to pick up sound from a distance, if you’re recording a lecture, they will be able to clearly hear the questions asked about your students during the course of that lecture.

While many professional recorders cost 300 or even $400 dollars and up, there are options are much more affordable. There’re many digital recorders available for less than $50. Regardless of the amount you invest into your recorder, it will be worth its weight in gold for the convenience it gives to you.

If you do not transcribe your own recordings, your transcriptionist will thank you for having a device that rides clear, easy to understand recordings. And if you use a Computer program to automatically transcribe your lectures, it will be far more accurate with a professional device compared to your smartphone.

There are many options out there for digital recorders, but perhaps some of the best are Olympus dictation equipment. Take a look at what is offered, and then see what other customers have to say about the devices. Weigh the pros and cons of each one and choose the recorder that best suits your needs.