Gearchimp

When voice recording is required, such as in a class or meeting, take a look at the Olympus VN-960PC 128MB Digital Voice Recorder with USB Connection. Its features and price put it far ahead of other digital recorders and old tape-based recorders. It supports voice activation and storage of up to 300 recordings across up to three folders. Recordings can be uploaded with Digital Wave Player software via a USB cable (both included). Depending on the quality settings, it can record up to 16 hours of conversation and play back at either slow or fast speeds. Two AAA batteries will power it for 25 hours.

It is lightweight and its controls are well placed and easy to use. A function lock button on the side protects against accidental recordings. A remarkable advance over tape systems, it’s at a great price-performance point for portable digital recorder systems.

Currently around $53 at buy.com or $53 at amazon with free shipping.