Besides unveiling new compact digital cameras, Olympus presented yesterday two new DM series, the DM-520 and DM-420 digital audio devices. They provide more storage space for capturing more meetings/interviews, create more podcasts and play back more music, audio books, podcasts and other media content than ever before.

The DM-520 has 4GB internal memory, while the DM-420 only sports 2Gb, expandable with microSD to up to 16GB for extended recording. Both can record and play ultra high-quality stereo audio content of 44.1 kilohertz, which is equal to the sound quality of most compact discs. The DM-520 also supports 16bit / 48Khz linear PCM recording to capture the rich sound quality of music performances, whilst both provide play back for PCM, MP3 and WMA files.

“These new Olympus DM series digital audio devices have increased on-board memory and expandable memory with media cards to make it easier to mix business and pleasure,” said Amy Leslie, product manager, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “With 51 hours of rechargeable battery life, the DM-520 let you capture your work meeting in CD-quality sound, and then listen to your favorite album on the cross-country flight home.”

Wave data management is click-easy due to the Sonority software, erasing noise, adjusting sound effects and dividing files to name a few options. Uploading, organizing and emailing of audio files and direct download of podcasts are as easy no matter what platform you are using, be it PC or Mac.

The recorders feature "scene modes" based on the current environment in order to simplify recording of a wide variety of sounds, like voice, music and nature. All that and you don't even need to worry about running out of battery juice. Both players will operate for up to 51 hours with two included rechargeable AAA batteries that recharge by plugging into the USB port. And just in case you didn't get to charge, you can always use easy-to-find AAA alkaline batteries.

Street price is estimated around $199.99 for the DM-520, while the DM-420 will go for $149.99.


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