Best Hidden Audio Recorder Recommendations

Zoom F8n and Mixpre10 II

• Users recommend the Zoom F8n or Mixpre10 II as minimum requirements for a recorder.
• Pros:
  • "Personally I would get an F8n or Mixpre10 II and dump most of my budget on wireless."
  • "The quality I’ve heard from the F8N is more than fine for pretty much any gig."
• Cons:
  • "The fader controller for the F8n Pro has been discontinued."
  • "Mixpres only record to one SD card, which can be worrying."

Zaxcom Nomad

• Consider the used Zaxcom Nomad for around $1,000.
• Pros:
  • Runs on AA batteries.
  • Up to 16 channels.

Sound Devices 788s or Tascam DR-05

• Sound Devices 788s can be bought used for under $2,000.
• For a budget option, consider the Tascam DR-05.

Digital Recorders

• Zoom H1n is recommended for digital recording if not interested in cassette culture.
• Pros:
  • Higher sound quality and more features in a smaller profile.
• Cons:
  • Lacks the nostalgia of using analog cassette recorders.

Dictation Recorders

• Look into Olympus VN-541PC Digital Voice Recorder for dictation purposes.
• Pros:
  • Ease of recording, stopping, and quick playback.
• Cons:
  • Limited to one track recording unless using an external microphone for stereo recording.

Micro Cassette Recorders

• Consider vintage Sanyo or other reputable brands.
• Pros:
  • Built-in speaker.
  • Easy to use and obtainable at low prices.
• Cons:
  • May require rehabilitation like belt replacement and thorough cleaning.

Field Recording Techniques

• Techniques such as lav mics, hidden booms, ADR, and rig removal are commonly used to capture clean audio on set.
• Pros:
  • Allows for clear dialogue in various filming conditions.
• Cons:
  • Requires post-production work such as ADR for certain scenes.

Boom Mics and Lav Mics

• Used for various recording needs, including capturing dialogue during wide shots or noisy environments.
• Pros:
  • Lav mics can be hidden in various locations for seamless recording.
• Cons:
  • Limited by environmental noise and mic placement challenges.

In conclusion, when choosing a hidden audio recorder, consider factors like sound quality, ease of use, and post-production needs to capture high-quality audio in different filming scenarios.