Memorex MB2054 Digital Voice Recorder

Rating:
Summary: Does what it should, nothing fancy.
Review: As usual, many expect too much from a voice recorder. LP mode is usually unusable, even from most expensive brand; SP mode is where it counts, clear enough for taking note in a small class room. This model is slightly cheaper than other brands, and the build quality is OK, it is plastic, don't abuse it, it will last long time. It does what is should and well, but if you want something flashy, pay more for other brands.

Rating:
Summary: Poor quality sound
Review: I find the quality of the recordings to be very poor. I can hardly understand what's being said, and there is a lot of noise in the recordings, even in the SP mode. If you're going down to this price level, you might as well just go back to tape.

Rating:
Summary: Good value for low end digital recorder
Review: I picked up the Memorex MB2054 at a local Target store on clearance for $17.48. I've been looking for a reasonably priced VOX digital recorder for a while and the price was right. The unit has microphone and earplug jacks on top with the typical controls on the front. On the back are three switches for mic sensitivity, VOX, and a hold to lock the controls on the front. Pressing the REC, PLAY or PAUSE button powers on the recorder and it automatically shuts down after thirty seconds of idle time. This model advertises four hours of recording time, but that is at the lower-quality LP mode. Selecting SP mode will give thirty minutes. The installed flash memory holds three separate folders with up to 99 messages each. Finally, it is powered by two AAA batteries and the LCD readout does show battery strength, which is a nice feature to have. The manual states a fresh pair of batteries should last 6-10 hrs. As far as performance, the LP mode (4 hr.) is disappointing. Playback is somewhat garbled and I find it usable only if dictating verbal notes to myself. The SP mode (30 min.) is much clearer and is of better quality than any tape-based recorders I've used in the past. To sum, this recorder has a good display panel and it's very easy to locate, play and erase specific messages. I'm pleased with the features offered, although I would like to have seen a shirt clip added since the unit is very lightweight. There is a small opening in one corner that would allow you to add a thin strap, but none was included. If you have modest recording needs then the MB2054 is a good value.

Rating:
Summary: Good value for low end digital recorder
Review: I picked up the Memorex MB2054 at a local Target store on clearance for $17.48. I've been looking for a reasonably priced VOX digital recorder for a while and the price was right. The unit has microphone and earplug jacks on top with the typical controls on the front. On the back are three switches for mic sensitivity, VOX, and a hold to lock the controls on the front. Pressing the REC, PLAY or PAUSE button powers on the recorder and it automatically shuts down after thirty seconds of idle time. This model advertises four hours of recording time, but that is at the lower-quality LP mode. Selecting SP mode will give thirty minutes. The installed flash memory holds three separate folders with up to 99 messages each. Finally, it is powered by two AAA batteries and the LCD readout does show battery strength, which is a nice feature to have. The manual states a fresh pair of batteries should last 6-10 hrs. As far as performance, the LP mode (4 hr.) is disappointing. Playback is somewhat garbled and I find it usable only if dictating verbal notes to myself. The SP mode (30 min.) is much clearer and is of better quality than any tape-based recorders I've used in the past. To sum, this recorder has a good display panel and it's very easy to locate, play and erase specific messages. I'm pleased with the features offered, although I would like to have seen a shirt clip added since the unit is very lightweight. There is a small opening in one corner that would allow you to add a thin strap, but none was included. If you have modest recording needs then the MB2054 is a good value.