In any line of technical work there are basic tools of the trade that make it possible to do the job effectively. For many tech directors, audio professionals and musicians, one of those essential tools is a reliable portable audio recorder. They're great for capturing on-the-spot musical and audio ideas, recording the sound of a specific venue, or grabbing quick sound files for video and filmmaking. A good audio recorder also comes in handy when needing to capture presentation or teaching audio in rooms that lack a built in sound recording system.
First announced at NAB 2016, the Sony ICD-SX2000 is a new portable digital recorder for high quality field recording of voice and music. The device records to hi-res Linear PCM files at sampling frequencies up to 96kHz and 24-bit rates. It also records to more compressed MP3 files at sampling rates between 48kbps (mono) and 320kpbs (stereo) in order to maximize recording time.
The ICD-SX2000 is equipped with dual built-in mics, which are capable of being repositioned into a “Y” formation for recording wide environments, straight ahead for directional voice recording, or into an “X” formation for recording musical sources. The recorder also includes stereo mini-jacks for external mic input and headphone output. The ICD-SX2000 also comes equipped with a built-in S-Master HX digital amplifier for optimal playback quality.
Going the Distance
Built in memory on the recorder includes 16GB built-in, which provides up to 6.5 hours when recording in LPCM mode and 636 hours of recording in MP3 at 48Hz (mono). Capacity can also be expanded up to 64GB by using additional microSDHC or microSDHX cards.
Another feature of the IDC-SX2000 is the ability to control the device externally via Apple or Android app with Sony's free REC Remote: Sony IC Recorder app, utilizing a Bluetooth connection. Sony rates the remote control distance from recorder to device as being approximately 30 feet. In our tests that seemed to be a fairly consistent distance, with some devices being capable of a slightly further reach than others. The app allows users to start, pause and stop the recording, in addition to monitoring the audio levels and recording waveforms. It also permits users to adjust recording levels manually, as well as adding up to 98 “T-Marks,” or track markings, for helping navigate large audio files.
The ICD-SX2000 can be directly connected to a computer for file transfer and charging using a unique flip out USB port. This nifty feature allows users to bypass the need to carry an additional USB cable when on the go. The device includes software (Windows only) for converting and editing audio files from the recorder. It also includes a leather carrying case with a magnetic cover clasp, windscreen and a slot for attaching the unit to a stand or tripod.
In Action
After spending some time with the ICD-SX2000 it's clear that this is not Sony's first pass at building a digital audio recorder. The sound quality is solid, especially when attempting to record mid- and high-frequency sources. It's not going to excel at capturing bass frequencies, but that's not really what this device is designed to do.
When placed properly, the recorder also does a commendable job of rejecting background noise while recording the voice it's pointed at. As expected, the mics are extremely sensitive, which means users will want to be sure to use the included windscreen when recording in close proximity to the sound source. Handling noise is minimal, and can be reduced almost entirely by using a small stand when out in the field.
The ICD-SX2000 works well with both Mac and Windows computers, but the included computer app for transcoding is Windows-only. For Mac users already using any basic audio editing software this will likely be a non-issue. The recorder charges and transfer files via the flip-out USB, and with the device being larger than a thumb drive it may be necessary to use the included USB extension, depending on your computer setup.
One unexpected, yet very significant highlight of the ICD-SX2000 is the device's S-Master HX digital amplifier. The inclusion of this technology means that, in addition to being a great portable recorder, it also makes for an absolutely fantastic digital music player. In testing we found the playback quality of music files to be noticeably superior when compared to smartphone playback.
If there's one area we wish we could improve on the ICD-SX2000, it would be great if the recorder had a physical dial for manual recording level control. While it's possible to manually adjust the input level on the device, the process can take a few seconds and leave slight clicking sounds on the audio file. This is a small issue, but one that would really take the device to the next level. A Sony representative told us this is mechanical noise from the button being pressed as picked up by the microphones. They suggested using the Rec Remote software to make record level changes during recording. Changes are almost instantaneous and no noise is made.
Final Thoughts
Overall the ICD-SX2000 is a great product that's both fun and rewarding to use. The recorder is very compact and lightweight, packed full of useful features such as the sturdy flip-out USB port and “hold” button configuration, which prevents accidental changes or stoppages during critical recording sessions. The menus are easy and to navigate, with the LCD screen lighting up automatically when any button is pushed. This configuration conserves battery life, while still making the device easy to operate when working in a dark environment.
For audiophiles with finely attuned ears, the built in digital amp is a significant added bonus feature. Studio music files sounded significantly better when played back on this device than they would on many other portable music players. In fact, after about 30 minutes of listening it was very difficult to go back listening to music on this writer's iPhone.
Taken together, the ICD-SX2000 is an extremely useful device and a great value when you consider everything it has to offer. Audio professionals and tech directors needing a lightweight, portable audio solution that doubles as a quality music playback device are likely to fall for this device at first listen.
The ICD-SX2000 is expected to be released in the first quarter of 2017 with a street price of $229.
