Olympus LS-20M Digital Voice Recorder Get Olympus LS-20M Price / Buy Online

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Transforming everyday videos into memorable movies can be a challenge, but the Olympus LS-20M Linear PCM recorder makes it easy to add creative flair to any recording with the introduction of high-definition video. Record a live recital, create home movies and upload amazing linear PCM audio and high-definition video with the Olympus LS-20M. Incorporating technologies much like those that debuted in recent Olympus digital imaging products, the LS-20M is the first Olympus recorder that captures and edits 1080p HD video while recording 24 bit/96 hHz Linear PCM stereo sound. Combined with four different optional Magic Movie special effects features, the LS-20M enables users to create home movies that look and sound like professional productions in a device that's so compact it fits in your pocket.

It has everything to get the heart of true audiophiles racing -- and then some. Capable of stereo recording in uncompressed 96kHz/24bit Linear PCM format, the Olympus LS-20M faithfully captures and reproduces audio, such as a kicking live performance, in its full richness with a frequency response range spanning from a thumping 20Hz up to 96kHz. Enhancing the pureness of sound in windy conditions or noisy environments is an advanced integrated low-cut filter. Naturally, besides automatic recording level controls, users can also set this manually. A pair of high-sensitivity built-in microphones featuring a 90-degree layout and low-vibration structure are the "ears" of the unit. And providing utmost input flexibility, the LS-20M also offers a microphone and LINE IN jack. Versatile audio file management options including indexing and editing are the icing on the cake, making this latest high-tech device the perfect pocket partner for recording audio in studio quality.

Olympus LS-20M Key Features

Included Accessories

• LI-42B Lithium Ion Rechargeable Battery
• F-3AC USB AC Adapter
• 2 GB SD Card
• USB cable
• Warranty Card
• Instruction Manual

Uncompressed 24 bit/96 kHz Linear PCM Recording Capability

The LS-20M features uncompressed 24 bit/96kHz Linear PCM recording capability, to capture the rich sound quality of music performances. The LS-20M can record with its internal microphone or by plugging in an external microphone. Record band rehearsals in studio quality, sample natural sound straight off the street, or capture your friends' improvised outburst of their favourite song. Whether you're a musician hit by a sudden wave of inspiration, or a reporter caught in the midst of a breaking story, the LS-20M Linear PCM Recorder is the ideal tool for high-quality audio capture on the go. The LS-20M's value extends beyond the realm of music. Students will find it useful for recording lectures and journalists for recording high-quality interviews for broadcasts and podcasts.

High Definition Movie Capture Including 1080p Full HD Movie, 4x Digital Zoom

The Olympus LS-20M takes handheld recording to a new dimension with HD video. By combining Olympus' superior audio capabilities, cutting-edge design and the outstanding optical performance expected from Olympus, this all-in-one handheld offers the versatility and practicality you need. Users can capture full HD movies utilizing one of three video format settings up to 1080p for stunning HD video clarity. The camera lens and microphones are located on top of the unit -- just point the device in the direction of the intended object and hit record.

A crisp, 2.0-inch color LCD on the front of the device clearly displays the video as its being shot. Below the video LCD is a 1.46-inch LCD data screen that displays time, audio levels and battery life. Want to record a live recital that looks and sounds like a professional ballet? The LS-20M can do that, just point and record. The HD video compression format makes it easy to upload videos to Facebook, YouTube, iTunes, Vimeo and other web-based content sharing sites, and the resolution offers remarkable detail on modern home theatre systems.

The camera features a 4.1mm (16:9 at 49mm, 4:3 at 59mm) autofocus lens and 4x digital zoom delivering premium video no matter where you are shooting. The Olympus LS-20M allows users to record in low light for more dramatic footage and also offers close-up video shooting. The combination of video and audio excellence has an infinite number of possibilities. Record a close-up of a hummingbird in HD video and set it to your own sound track of better-than-CD quality audio.

Four Magic Movie Filters

Specially designed to expand the potential of your creativity, the simple to operate, LS-20M's Magic Movie special effects technology turns scenes of everyday life into extraordinary images that are distinctive and compelling. Using technology from Olympus' cameras, Magic Movie allows users to create exciting videos, then upload and share them with the world on YouTube or Facebook. Unleash your creative side by incorporating linear PCM audio with your own artistic expression. The Four Magic Movie Filters include:

• Rock -- Create your own rock video! Step on stage with the classic Rock Magic Movie setting, featuring saturated black images and bright, bold background colors
• Sketch -- Turns your video into a living and breathing pencil drawing, reminiscent of some popular 80's videos. Sketch adds an artistic feel and poetic flavor to your recordings
• Pinhole -- Allows users to record video with soft, darkened outside edges, enhancing the subject in the center of the video. Pinhole is great for setting a mood to tie in with the melody or focus of your recorded sound
• Pop -- Super-saturates colors to create a brighter, more vivid video recording. Turn your world into a work of pop art!

Web Camera With Live Monitor

On a PC running Windows XP (SP3 or later), Windows Vista or Windows 7, the LS-20M can be connected via USB 2.0 and used as a PC camera. The live image is displayed on the LS-20M's main LCD during PC camera operation.

PCM WAV and MP3 Recording and Playback

The LS-20M has the versatility to record and play back in the WAV and MP3 formats.

Ultra High-Quality Sound With Built-in High-Sensitivity Stereo Microphone System

Sensitive microphones are of utmost importance to capture the nuance of every note, word or sound from low to high tone range. The LS-20M employs two high-sensitivity, low-noise condenser stereo mics with low-vibration structure. The 45-degree outward positions of the two condenser mics enable users to record with wider stereo sound.

Switchable Low Cut Filter Blocks Out Unwanted Sound

When trying to record ambient sounds such as a babbling brook or bird call, background noise can prove incredibly frustrating. Thankfully, the LS-20M features a switchable low-cut filter that enables users to eliminate low-frequency sound. Unwanted background noises, like the rumble of a distant car or the strains of an air conditioning unit, can be greatly minimized.

Automatic Or Manual Record Level Adjustment

For your convenience, the Olympus LS-20M offers manual or auto-level recording. The auto level is perfect if you are recording from the crowd. Thanks to the manual level, musicians can capture optimal sound checks and live performances.

Voice Activation and Self-Timer Operation

The Olympus LS-20M voice-activation feature automatically starts a recording when a certain level of sound is reached. The self-timer feature starts the recording process after a predetermined amount of time; both are ideal for recording a performance or video without having to operate the recorder.

SD/SDHC Removable Media Card Slot

Higher quality recordings call for larger, more versatile storage options, which is why the LS-20M includes an SD card slot. For significant increases in storage capacity, this model is even compatible with the SDHC format which can supply up to 32GB of additional storage space. During a busy day of recording, changing SD cards is an easy way for users to capture more audio without taking the time to download files to a computer.

Record Up to 31 Hours on Included 2 GB SD Card

The LS-20M has an included two-gigabyte SD memory card to capture lengthy recordings. Provides uninterrupted recording for up to 31 hours in MP3 128 kbps 44.1 mHz mode.

Elegant and Durable Compact Body

The Olympus LS-20M features a lightweight, durable, black body with silver function buttons in a slim, pocket-size device that fits in your palm. At just 5.3 inches long and 5.4 ounces, the LS-20M provides remarkable power in a convenient and portable size. The attractive Olympus LS-20M is eye-catching and designed with ease-of-use in mind, with the control panel located just below the video and data LCDs. As the previous LS-series models, the record button lights up when activated and the thumb panel enables easy adjustments to settings while recording. A switch on the right side panel allows for easy transition from audio/video to audio-only recording.

Dual Video and Data LCD Screens

A crisp, 2.0-inch color LCD on the front of the device clearly displays the video as its being shot. Below the video LCD is a 1.46-inch LCD data screen that displays time, audio levels and battery life.

Wireless Control Option

The optional exclusive wireless remote controller allows users to start and stop the recording of the LS-20M from a distance. This is ideal for live performances when the LS-20M can be placed near the stage and activated from several rows back.

AC Power

An AC adapter is included for longer recording.

Adjustable High-Low Microphone Sensitivity Modes

The built-in microphone sensitivity is adjustable to meet varying recording needs.

Index Marks

The LS-20M allows users to add index marks to files during recording and playback so they can easily return to key places in a recording. Record a concerto and add an index mark between each new stanza of the classical piece.

File Editing and File Management in PCM Recording Mode

The LS-20M also features file editing in PCM mode to divide files and make partial cuts right inside the device.

External Line-In Jack

Micro HDMI Connector

A micro HDMI connector means that recorded digital footage and sound can also be easily shown and heard in all its high-definition glory when connected to an HDTV and/or external audio system.

External Earphone Jack

External Microphone Jack

Video Visualiser To Enjoy Sound And Video Effects Together

Enable the Visualizer during playback to view imagery that pulses and dances with the audio. Choose from options like Equalizer, Pink Line and Rainy Blue.

Olympus LS-20M Specifications

Recording Format

Audio: Linear PCM (Pulsed Code Modulation) WAV
MP3 (MPEG-1/MPEG-2 Audio Layer 3)
Movie: MOV (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264)

Recording Media

SD / SDHC Memory Card (512 MB to 32 GB)
2 GB SD Card Included

Recording Times, Included 2 GB Memory Card

PCM 96 kHz 24-bit stereo: 55 minutes
PCM 88.2 kHz 24-bit stereo: 1 hour, 00 minutes
PCM 48 kHz 16-bit stereo: 2 hours, 45 minutes
PCM 44.1 kHz 16-bit stereo: 3 hours, 00 minutes
MP3 44.1 kHz 320 kbps stereo: 12 hours, 45 minutes
MP3 44.1 kHz 256 kbps stereo: 16 hours, 00 minutes
MP3 44.1 kHz 128 kbps stereo: 31 hours, 00 minutes

Shooting Times, Included 2 GB Memory Card

1920 x 1080 30fps video 96kHz 24-bit audio: 15 minutes
1920 x 1080 30fps video 88.2kHz 24-bit audio: 15 minutes
1920 x 1080 30fps video 48kHz 16-bit audio: 17 minutes
1920 x 1080 30fps video 44.1kHz 16-bit audio: 17 minutes
1280 x 720 30fps video 96kHz 24-bit audio: 20 minutes
1280 x 720 30fps video 88.2kHz 24-bit audio: 20 minutes
1280 x 720 30fps video 48kHz 16-bit audio: 30 minutes
1280 x 720 30fps video 44.1kHz 16-bit audio: 30 minutes
640 x 480 30fps video 44.1 kHz 320 kbps audio: 1 hour
640 x 480 30fps video 44.1 kHz 256 kbps audio: 1 hour
640 x 480 30fps video 44.1 kHz 128 kbps audio: 1 hour 15 minutes

Image Sensor

1/4 inch CMOS, 5.32 Mega Pixel total

Effective Pixels

16:9 - 2,930,000
4:3 - 2,190,000

Lens

4.1mm fixed (35mm equivalent: 49mm at 16:9, 59mm at 4:3)

Focus Range

11.8 inches (30 cm) - Infinity

Movie Resolutions

HD 1080p 30 fps, HD 720p 30 fps, ED 480p 30 fps

Light Metering System

Digital ESP, spot

Input Level

MIC, Sensitivity Hig:h -59 dBv
MIC, Sensitivity Low: -39 dBv
LINE IN Jack Input: -6 dBv

Sampling Frequencies

PCM: 44.1 - 96 kHz
MP3: 44.1 kHz

Overall Frequency Response, Mic Jack

Linear PCM 96k Hz: 20 to 44,000 Hz
Linear PCM 88.2 kHz: 20 to 42,000 Hz
Linear PCM 48 kHz: 20 to 23,000 Hz
Linear PCM 44.1 kHz: 20 to 21,000 Hz
MP3 320kbps: 50 to 20,000 Hz
MP3 256kbps: 50 to 20,000 Hz
MP3 128kbps: 50 to 17,000 Hz

Overall Frequency Response, Built-in Mic

60 to 20,000 Hz while recording (in 128kbps MP3 recording, the upper limit value is 17,000 Hz)

Overall Frequency Response, Playback

20 to 20,000 Hz

Speaker

Built-in 16mm round dynamic speaker, 8 ohms

Practical Maximum Output

270 mW (8Ω speaker)

Maximum Headphone Output

≤ 150 mV

USB Interface

High-speed USB 2.0

HDMI Interface

HDMI micro connector type D

Folders / Messages

5 folders / 999 messages per folder, plus Music folder

Microphone Jack

3.5 mm stereo mini-jack, impedance 2.2 kΩ

LINE IN Jack

3.5 mm stereo mini-jack, impedance 39 kΩ

Earphone Jack

3.5 mm mini-jack, impedance 16 Ω or more

Power Supply

Batteries: LI-42B Lithium Ion Battery
External Power Supply: F-3AC AC Adapter

Battery Life (LI-42B Battery)

Approx. 4 hours maximum recording voice mode
Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes maximum recording movie mode

OS Supported

Microsoft Windows XP/VISTA/7
Mac OS X 10.4.11-10.6

Dimensions (H x W x D), excluding protrusions

5.3 x 2.5 x 0.7 inches (134.7 x 62.8 x 18.2 mm)

Weight

5.4 oz. (154 g), including battery

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