Mini Disc Recorders

Why do I need to buy a digital recorder to take this course?

We’re in a digital world. You will need the latest technology to learn the craft of radio. On the plus side, you won’t have to buy many books. In total, books and a digital recorder will cost you about $200 per semester on average or, about $800 - $1,000 over the four semesters. And the good news is you get to keep your mini disc recorder after you graduate!

How much should I pay and what model do I need?

You need a name brand model (Sony models seem to be the most popular) with a mic input and a headphone output. Your digital recorder must have a mic input . A line input will not work. You can use an IPOD – but you have to buy a microphone adaptor. It costs about $150.

What about a microphone?

Buy an external microphone. That is, a microphone that connects to the digital recorder with an external mic cable and a mini jack. (It plugs into mic input on the side of the mini disc. The mic input is usually red.) Don’t buy a miniature microphone that plugs directly into the mini disc. They pick up the motor noise of the recorder. An internal mic built into the recorder won’t work either. They are for office dictation machines. Make sure you buy an external full sized mic. Buy a brand name mic ~ Shure, Electrovoice etc. Students tell us the Sony ECM-MS907 works great. It costs about $120.

When do I need to buy the digital recorder?

You will need to buy your mini disc recorder by the third week of school. The suppliers around Ottawa will need advance notice to put in a group order to get you a better price. You will need to place your order during the first week of school. We recommend you wait until the start of school before buying your digital recorder and microphone. However, make sure you’ve saved enough money to buy your equipment in September.

Questions? Contact Don Crockford
Email: crockfd@algonquincollege.com