Here’s the LS-11 as it was unpacked from the FedEx box:

The main box is opened. The Recorder comes in one box and the accessories in another.

Here’s a shot with all of the goodies shipped with a base Olympus LS-11 – case, wrist strap, connection cables, manual, quick start guide, warranty case, Cubase LE software and quick start guide, 2 x AA batteries for instant gratification, windcreens for the microphones, and the LS-11 itself.

Here’s a show showing the windscreens installed (there is a plastic fitting inside each windscreen that provides a satisfying “click” when placed over the microphones), and the LS-11′s relative size to a pair of AA batteries.

I used the included case to create a “go bag” for the LS-11, essentially adding a tiny tripod (in case on left) that I purchase a couple of years ago in Japan.

Here’s the unit with the tripod installed. I will experiment with placing a rubber isolation layer between the tripod and LS-11, to see if a difference can be determined when handling and low frequency rumble from the environment are present.

That’s it for now! The experiments start this week. I plan to do several environmental recordings, so spoken word recordings via interviews at CEDIA, and instrumental flute rehearsal recordings.

The Sony physically is shorter and wider (around 4.5 inches x 2.5 inches) than the Olympus (around 5.25 inches x 1.75 inches). Both units feature interesting industrial design, the Olympus team opting for clear definition on the condenser microphones. The displays are virtually identical, featuring VU meters, transport state, record time and battery status.

Here is a side-by-side feature comparison:

My initial thoughts: I don’t want a wired remote. Recording time is paramount to me. The Olympus wins given battery life, fully size SD compatibility, and recording time. The Olympus also has an optional “Windjammer” windscreen, camera tripod mounting compatibility, and several microphone options. I couldn’t find data on the options for the Sony.

That said, I’m concerned (and have inquiries into Olympus) about the lack of a recording limiter. I could not find anything in the specification sheet nor on the website the talks about this. This feature could make the product difficult to use when a quick capture opportunity presents itself. I’d have to have a whole recording be distorted. The literature does mention an automatic level control, but that can compromise recording quality, as it changes the level of the entire recording, not just the peaks like a limiter.

Update: I have spoken with a Product Manager at Olympus about limiting and auto-level options on the LS-11 and confirmed that the device features both. The limiter has both an “auto” and “manual” setting, adjustable by the recording level dial on the side of the recorder.

As far as I understand it, however, neither product is complete. The both will ship this Fall. I’m going to make every attempt to get both units for evaluation and review.

I can’t wait to sell my MiniDisk recorder and get my hands on one of these devices!

PS: I will hopefully be getting a demo unit of the Olympus device sometime soon. Plan on seeing demos and applications on TechRoadie!