1) Sound quality

Digital voice recorders offer better audio record quality. This is in part because digital voice recorders have a higher signal-to-noise ratio which means there is less noise. Signal-to-noise ratio is basically a measure of the strength of the audio signal in comparison to that of the background noise. Essentially, a low signal-to-noise ratio means that the device or file has lots of hiss and static, while a high rating means clear-sounding audio.

There are several other factors that make the quality of digital recording superior.  For example, over time a cassette tape's magnetic particles lose their charge, causing the quality of the original recording to deteriorate. With a digital voice recorder, the quality of the recording is not affected by time, frequency of play, and/or the number of times the file has been copied.    

2) Features

Digital Voice Recorders offer a wide range of features for greater functionality and efficiency. Enhanced features include the ability to save hundreds of recordings as files in folders on the recorder. This method of storing audio files is similar to the way files are saved on a pc.  In addition most digital recorders store recorded audio on a random access memory circuit which allows you to cue to any part of the recording instantly. Other features include the ability to record reminders,  index or mark a reference point in a file, insert a new recording into an existing recording,  play MP3's (listen to music), and simultaneously record audio and capture images (take pictures) together.

3) Record Time

While there are many variations of storage depending on the manufacture and the model, most units use removable memory cards and allow for storage capacities of  512MB or greater.  The length of record time varies depending on the "Record Mode" selected.

To demonstrate the advantages, we have put together a basic illustration of recording modes and record times based on utilizing a 128MB card.

128MB card: (approximation)

LP Mode: 45 hours

SP Mode: 21 hours

HQ Mode: 9 hours

4) PC Link Integration

PC integration is a must! Most Digital Voice Recorders come with a pc link which enables files to be downloaded via a USB cable, a card reader or a docking cradle. Once the files are downloaded they can by saved, edited, emailed etc. using the editor/player software that is packaged with the device.  Simply put it is easier to manage audio files via the pc in comparison to keeping files on numerous cassette tapes. The advantages of having pc integration include instant access to recordings, more efficient means of storing and archiving files, ability to edit and/or combine files, and access to numerous other features such as email capabilities, transcription systems, integration with speech recognition products etc.

All in all the benefits of a digital recording device are rather substantial, which is why digital voice recorders are becoming an industry standard.