Recommended microphones and recorders

Portable Digital Recorders

Handheld recorders with USB audio interface mode. Professional alternative to a USB microphone: built-in capsules, XLR inputs with phantom power and up to 8 simultaneous channels.

Entry-level

Zoom H1essential

32-bit float stereo X/Y, USB-C 2-in/2-out. Ultra-compact (92 g), ideal for a mobile student with a solo instrument.

€ 109 - 119

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Entry-level

Tascam DR-05X

Omnidirectional stereo 24-bit/96 kHz, USB 2-in/2-out. Natural timbral rendering, 17.5 h battery life with AAs.

€ 99 - 119

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Mid-range

Tascam DR-40X

4 tracks, rotatable X/Y mics, 2 XLR combo with +24/+48 V phantom. Stereo USB interface, ideal for voice + external instrument.

€ 179 - 199

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Mid-range

Zoom H4essential

32-bit float 4-track, X/Y mics + 2 XLR combo with +48 V phantom. USB 4-in/2-out: send internal mics and XLR separately to the computer.

€ 209 - 229

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Professional

Zoom H6essential

32-bit float 6-track, interchangeable X/Y capsules + 4 XLR combo with +48 V phantom. USB 6-in/2-out for ensemble teachers.

€ 295 - 349

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Professional

Tascam Portacapture X8

8 USB channels 32-bit float, 4 XLR combo with independent phantom, 3.5" touchscreen, detachable large capsules. Multichannel flagship.

€ 415 - 499

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Indicative prices subject to change. Click the link for the up-to-date price.