OLYMPUS DS-320

Hamburg, January 2001 – Get organised with the Olympus DS-320. Whether for work, leisure or educational purposes, this new digital voice recorder helps to make the most effective use of time. The easy operation and a wealth of powerful features such as PC connectability are further complemented by its extremely compact, ergonomic styling.

Storage capacity for messages has doubled from that of its "little brother", the DS-150. An impressive 16 MB integrated flash memory is now on hand, providing space for up to 320 minutes of continuous dictations in Long Play mode. Utilisation of the high-compression DSS (Digital Speech Standard) file format permits such extended recording while maintaining superb sound quality.

The employment of digital technology not only makes the organisation of notes and messages easy, it additionally offers extreme flexibility. As with conventional voice recorders, files can simply be overwritten. However, this digital solution also allows much more. Dictations can be partially or wholly deleted in an instant, and by applying the "insert" function, users may effortlessly add new sections at any point in a previously recorded file.

The easy organisation and identification of recordings is also assured by two separate folders that each accept up to 99 entries. User ID’s may additionally be set, simplifying author identification. This model furthermore permits the insertion of up to 16 index marks per message – both during recording and playback. In this way, specific sections of individual dictations are quickly located, either within the DS-320 itself or while using the Olympus DSS Player software for transcription.

Making certain that effective file management is both trouble-free and straightforward, an integrated, easy-to-read LC-Display provides users with all necessary recorder information. Finger-tip control of virtually all functions simplifies operation. The Variable Control Voice Actuator (VCVA) capability helps conserve memory by starting the DS-320 automatically as dictation commences and stopping during pauses. And to suit the various sound conditions that are possible during operation, users can adjust the microphone’s level of sensitivity.

For the maximum versatility, the Olympus DS-320 can be connected to a PC. The optional PC Data Transfer Kit enables easy downloading of files either via the computer’s serial or USB interface. The bundled DSS Player software includes additional functions that further enhance efficiency. For example, files may be played, transcribed, archived or incorporated into e-mails*. Affording a very comfortable transcription process, voice data may also be automatically converted to text using the optional speech recognition software (e.g. ViaVoice from IBM).

Measuring just 116 x 43 x 14.5 (H x W x D) mm, the DS-320 can easily be slipped into just about any jacket pocket. Its ultra-compact dimensions and weight of only 74 g, including batteries, make it the ideal companion to take anywhere.

This attractive digital voice recorder from Olympus, elegantly finished in a silver / graphite metallic colour, is planned for release in January 2001.