There are dozens of portable voice recorders out there that capture quality audio. However, they are designed for podcasts, interviews, or dialogue. If you want to record music, you’ll need a digital audio recorder designed to capture the tones and nuances of instruments and vocals.
This article contains our reviews of the best portable recorders for musicians, as well as our top choice for the best portable digital recorder for live music.
The Best Portable Recorders for Musicians
The top 5 portable recorders for musicians for recording live music are:
- Zoom H6
- Tascam DR-07X
- Zoom H1n
- Sony PCM-A10
- Zoom H4n Pro
Zoom H6
The Zoom H6 is a 6-track recorder, which means you can record up to six tracks simultaneously. This certainly makes it a versatile device that delivers excellent audio quality. It also makes it the best portable recorder for musicians because it can be used as an audio interface. It’s portable and durable, which adds to its popularity.
Features
Perhaps the best feature of the Zoom H6 is the two interchangeable mic capsules. You get one mid-side mic and one for an XY. You can use these for recording audio using different mic positions, which allows you to achieve precise results.
The interchangeable mics create an XYH-6 90º/120º adjustable stereo X-Y mic system that has a 3.5mm input jack in case you want to use a different input for those channels. It also has four additional channels of XLR / ¼″ line or mic inputs.
The L/R channels are for the included mics, and channels 1 through 4 are the additional four inputs. For line inputs, choose from the individual front-panel -20 dB pad. When not used as line inputs, each is a mic input. Each level control covers a wide range. Each also has selectable phantom power at Select +48, +24, or +12 volts.
As we stated, you can record up to six tracks simultaneously with the Zoom H6. Plus, you can record two more channels if you record it as a mixed-down MP3 at 12 dB below the main track. So, if something goes awry and you lose your main file, you’ll be able to restore it using the backup track.
This digital music recorder has a two-inch diagonal 240 × 320-pixel backlit LCD. While it works well, it is a small recorder. If you wear reading glasses, be sure to have them handy when using the H6.
The H6 comes with 2 GB of internal storage capacity, which is adequate for the general user. Professional users may find this amount falls a bit short for their needs, however, you can expand the memory up to 128GB using an SD card.
Quality of the Recorded Sound
The H6 records over two hours of high-quality audio at one time with the internal memory. This mic system is appropriately sensitive and filters out background noise well. The resulting recordings are crisp and clear.
Further, the display and controls are relatively intuitive and easy to use. Users with sound mixing experience report even more satisfaction with the mic system.
Demo Video
Advantages of the Zoom H6
The advantages of the H6 are that you get high-quality audio with the bonus of interchangeable mics as well as the option of adding external mics. That and the construction is solid and very durable.
Disadvantages
A significant drawback to this digital music recorder is that the internal memory is on the small size, that’s why you would need to get a larger memory.
While the H6 is meant for amateur recordings, it’s a bit complex for a beginner to operate. If you’re tech-savvy, though, you should have no issues.
Overall, the Zoom H6 is the best portable digital recorder for live music if you need or want to record six tracks at once. Your recorded sound is of high quality and clear and professional. The system is worth the price, and the durable construction will extend the life of the mic.
Tascam DR-07X
The Tascam DR‑07X is a compact pocket WAV recorder that has easy hardware controls and decent onboard mics. It also features XLR mic preamps that supply 48V phantom power to professional external mics. Small enough to fit in your pocket or palm of your hand, this portable recording device offers quality recording in a small package. In fact, the DR-07X is smaller and slimmer than a cell phone.
Features
Everything you need to record quality audio is built into the unit, and with it, you can make good-quality recordings very easy. The Tascam DR-07X comes with onboard mics which are attached to the recorders. There are no XLR inputs or 48V phantom power options.
While this also means that you can’t position the mics close to your sound source, you can adjust the mics to change the stereo image. Even with the lack of XLR inputs, the DR-07X has a stereo 3.5-mm mini-jack socket with which you can connect an external mic.
Even though the Tascam’s design is small, there’s still room for control buttons. The controls are intuitive, for the most part. You may have to consult with the manual a time or two to get it all down. You control most operations by accessing a circular panel of buttons that looks like a game controller.
Use the Up, Down, Left, and Right for navigating menus and controlling headphone and recording volumes. The center button is the Play button, which also serves as your selector button. There’s even a Quick button that brings up menu items related to the operating mode you are in, which is a nifty time-saver.
Finally, the USB interfacing is welcome new feature appreciated by musicians as well as podcasters recording directly to laptop setups.
Quality of the Recorded Sound
The Tascam’s recorded sound is consistent regarding tonal balance, noise level, and even quality. The X‑Y position produces recordings that are focused and tight delivering an intimate sound.
Demo Video
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Tascam
Tascam took a minimalist approach when it came to this compact microphone system. There are no accessories bundled with the unit, which is what keeps the price down. For those of us who already have all the accessories they need, this is a welcome break.
On the other hand, that also means this system comes with no included storage or internal memory. The recorder has a slot for up to 128 GB of micro SD/SDHC/SDXC cards that you will need in place before you begin recording.
If you don’t already have some on hand, you will have to add that to a small list of things you’ll need to purchase. Most recorders come with a bit of internal memory, and at least a 2 GB card included.
The minimalist style also means that your recorder won’t come with a carrying case, wrist strap, or windshield as other recorders do. You may also need to purchase a power adapter, extra battery pack, and a lavalier mic.
The DR‑07X is a basic, well-designed recorder. It’s affordable, user-friendly, and produces a quality sound that rates it as one of the best portable digital recorder for live music. The portability is convenient, and the USB connectivity is a welcome new feature to the Tascam line of recorders, the DR-07X included.
Zoom H1n
Zoom’s notable reputation for digital voice recorders extends to the H1n, which is an update to the H1 model. The X/Y mics are excellent, and the design makes the unit portable yet efficient for quality recording.
Features
By far, the H1n’s X/Y microphones are this model’s best feature. They handle 120dB SPL and allow you to record directly to micro-SD and micro-SDHC cards up to 32GB.
The mics are cased in a large plastic enclosure that looks like a basket. This unique design leaves the mics exposed for clear, unimpeded recording. In addition, it features a 1/8-inch mic input port so that you can connect it to a lapel mic, perfect for interviews, or even a phantom-powered shotgun mic.
The Zoom is compact at 2” x 5.4” x 1.3” and fits in your hand. The black matte finish looks great but is prone to scratching. The control buttons are accessible and user friendly, making recording easy. The menus are intuitive, and new users should be able to get around with little practice.
The Zoom H1n has a 1/8-inch output jack with dedicated volume controls, which help you monitor audio. You can connect headphones and monitor the sound in real-time during recording. The H1n also features a USB port, micro-SD slot, and a Trash button. On the back of the unit, you will find the AAA battery compartment as well as a screw mount for a mic stand, tripod, or boom arm.
Quality of the Recorded Sound
The H1n Handy Recorder records high-quality audio, especially at 24-bit. We find that the 24-bit audio recording is better than CD quality. The sound is clear, and you can pick out the finer details within the recording.
We feel that this portable machine outperforms just about any built-in microphone on other devices such as cellphones, tablets, or DSLRs.
To expand your possibilities, pair the Zoom H1n with a condenser mic, lapel mic, or shotgun mic to change the dynamics of your audio capture. In this capacity, one can use the Handy Recorder for independent films, YouTube shows, sound effects, and interviews.
Other great features include an audio limiter that cuts down on distortion when recording instruments, voices, and outdoor sounds. Another is the Pre-Record feature, which enables you to capture sound a few seconds before pressing the Record button. This is a huge benefit when it comes to reducing recording retakes.
Sound Demonstration
Advantages of the Zoom H1n
As we stated, the best advantage of the H1n is the quality of mics. For the price and size of this recorder, you get a phenomenal sound. The USB connectivity is another great feature, allowing you to record directly to your laptop or desktop workstation, serving as an audio interface, an excellent advantage for vloggers and podcasters.
Disadvantages
The only real disadvantage we found was that some users have experienced some distortion with the X/Y microphones. This happened when the mic was too close to the sound source. Also, when recording outdoors, you may end up with wind and other unwanted environmental noises on your audio file. My advise is to get a wind filter if you plan to record outdoors.
While the Zoom H1n is priced higher than its predecessor model, the updates and added features make it worth the added price. It’s compact and user friendly, making it one of the best portable recorder for musicians and podcasters alike.
Sony PCM-A10
The Sony PCM-A10 is a well-crafted, digital audio recorder that delivers high-quality audio recordings through advanced technology. At just 1.54” x 4.31” x 0.63” and weighing under three ounces, the PCM-A10 nonetheless feels substantial in your hand. Despite the small size, it packs a lot of sound and style.
Features
Visually, this Sony recorder is sleek and stylish. Functionally, it’s put together well, with stiff buttons that have excellent touch response. In addition to the standard controls, the unit also has a 1/8-inch input jack and a micro-SD slot for extra storage. It also features a small speaker for on-the-spot audio playback.
Towards the bottom of the device is a USB release mechanism, with which you can plug the recorder into your computer to charge or transfer data.
You can adjust the microphones for different recording styles, making this a perfect feature if you are using the recorder for multiple types of recordings such as live music, sound effects, lectures, or film. In addition to the built-in microphones, you can also connect lapel or shotgun microphones through the input jack.
When you initially set up the recorder, you can configure the microphone in the settings menu, where you can adjust audio recording quality, sensitivity, audio filters, and audio limiter.
You can also set pre-record options, a sync record, and a VOR function, which enables you to record automatically when the inputs reach a particular level.
The Sony Remote app is a free download that allows you to control the PCM-A10 from your phone using Bluetooth. Once you are connected to the app, you can manage your recorder and adjust settings from your phone, which is a powerful aid for content creators. The Bluetooth capabilities extent to headphones for wireless sound monitoring.
The rechargeable lithium-ion battery lasts up to 24 hours, with shorter battery life when recording in higher file formats. For example, if you’re recording at 24-bit/96 kHz, the battery will last about six hours. It takes about three hours for the battery to recharge once it’s drained fully.
Quality of the Recorded Sound
The Sony PCM-A10 generates superior sound for such a small device. Because you can reposition the microphones, you get a clean sound, depending on the source and surrounding noise. The noise reduction and limiter features capture sound clearly and with minimal noise. All in all, you get a quality recording comparable to a high-end microphone.
Because this Sony recorder has an ample 16 GB of internal storage space, it’s easy to record straight to the unit. After, transferring your recorded data is a breeze. Just plug your device into the USB port on your laptop.
Sound Demonstration
Advantages of the Sony PCM-A10
The interface is very user-friendly and easy to navigate. Likewise, the adjustable microphones are a welcome feature, as is the 24-bit/96 kHz WAV format recording.
Of course, Bluetooth connectivity is a strong feature as well. That, along with the smartphone controls, make this Sony all the more adaptable and convenient.
Disadvantages
The Sony PCM-A10 is on the pricey side for a hand-held digital recorder. Though, the added extras like the internal storage, rechargeable battery, Bluetooth, and Remote app do justify the higher price. Despite all this, we are disappointed that most of the recorder is made of plastic rather than a more durable material.
The Sony PCM-A10 is a well-designed, well-crafted digital audio recording device. It performs well enough for the professional as well as the amateur. It captures high-quality audio and offers several adjustable settings for fine-tuning your sound, all of which are accessible using the Sony Remote app.
Zoom H4n Pro
One of the more popular recorders is the Zoom H4n Pro. The Zoom is a lightweight but sturdy audio recorder. It’s easy to use and produces a clear, realistic sound.
Features
The Zoom has two XLR inputs and a 3.5mm stereo mini-jack input. Use the XLR inputs for larger microphones, like those used for podcasts or shotgun mics. The mini-jack input accepts TS (mono sound) or TRS plugs. Connect a TRS plug to that for stereo. This comes in handy if you need a plug for a lavalier mic for recording dialogue.
The H4n Pro has a 1.9” backlit LCD, which is a lifesaver when you’re recording in low light. It also comes in a convenient case that guards against scuffs and scratches during transport.
Unfortunately, the Zoom H4n Pro has no built-in storage. However, it records directly to SD and SDHC cards in sizes up to 32GB. Even if you’re recording at 96kHz, that’s plenty of space to hold your recordings. Note that the larger the SD card, the longer it takes for the unit to start up. While the H4n Pro is designed to be a field recorder, you can also use it as an audio interface when connecting it to a laptop or computer.
Quality of the Recorded Sound
If you are recording live music performance, voiceovers, sound effects, loud dialogue, or loud music, the Zoom records excellent audio. However, if you want to record softer sounds or ambiances, you may not be as pleased with your results. Customers report that a substantial amount of hiss on the recording, especially as you increase the volume.
The Zoom Pro can record four tracks simultaneously up to 24bit/96kHz. For voiceovers or dialogue, 24bit/48kHz will suffice. However, if you want to record sound effects, you’d have more success at 96kHz, as it would give you additional flexibility during postproduction.
Live Recording Demo – Zoom H4n Pro
Advantages of the Zoom H4n Pro
The sound quality is very good and exceptionally realistic for the price, especially when recording instruments such as drums or electric guitar. For this reason, the H4n Pro is considered one of the best portable recorder for musicians. It features less than 120 dBu EIN noise preamps and delivers crystal clear stereo, four-channel recordings up to 24-bit/96 kHz.
Disadvantages
The two-mic limit can be problematic, such as during a podcast where you may have more than one guest. In those cases, additional inputs for extra mics would be welcome.
Another drawback is the short battery life. While Zoom states that the H4n Pro should run for about 6 hours, it does not. In fact, the batteries run low sooner than expected, and we recommend you care back up batteries if you plan to be recording for several hours. Note that battery life varies depending on the type of recording. If you’re using Phantom Power, for example, you’ll experience a shorter battery life.
Overall, the Zoom H4n Pro is affordable, rugged, and versatile. It has excellent sound quality, but only has two XLR inputs. If that’s all you need, then you’ll be all set with this portable audio recorder.
Best Overall Portable Recorder for Musicians – Our Pick
Of all the audio recorders, the Zoom H6 provides the best results for the money. The advanced technology in the H6 is perfect for recording excellent quality music audio.
It also doubles as an audio interface so you can record directly to your audio recording software. Even more, the six-channels give musicians flexibility to record from several audio sources, such as instruments or multiple microphones.