DS 3300 vs DS 4000 a (Comparison/Review)
Pros:
Professional digital recorder utilizing the same speech algorithms and recording media as a DS 4000.
As far as speech recognition quality is concerned: The DS 4000 and DS 3300 are identical.
The DS 3300 is reasonably priced at $349 ($100 lower than the DS 4000)
Includes Olympus's flagship DSS Player Pro Transcription Software
Cons:
The DS 4000 includes a rechargeable Ni-MH battery pack which is an additional $29 for the DS 3300
Although the DS 3300 is all metal case constructed, it includes a clear plastic faceplate in place of the high impact scratch resistant glass faceplate of the DS 4000
The most notable missing feature is the Professional glitchless slider switch which is extremely user-friendly and doesn't require visual contact when using the basic functions (Record, Stop, Play and Rewind/Cue). The DS 3300 includes an array of push buttons for various functions but we prefer the slider switch because multiple push buttons mean more moving parts and generally push buttons are not going to hold up as well as a slider switch. Additionally, many of the buttons are relatively small and difficult to access. The REW/FF rocker button is dual purpose. If you are playing back a recording the REW/FF button doubles as a cue button. We prefer the DS 4000s separate FF/REW rocker switch. The main function buttons Play, Stop, New, Rec, REW/FF are relatively easy to access but the Folder/Menu, Index, Erase, Custom, and Hold buttons are small and somewhat difficult access. The Hold button is plastic and looks somewhat fragile. Additionally there is no dedicated Menu button like on the DS 4000. In order to access the menu button you must hold the Folder button down for 3 seconds.
Recommendations:
The DS 3300 records as well and includes all the Professional features found on the DS 4000. It's also $100 less but if you are dictating 400+ words per day, we think that the DS 4000's rechargeable battery, slider switch, high impact scratch resistant glass faceplate and larger more capable buttons are worth spending the extra $100. We also believe that the DS 4000's slider switch will outlast the DS 3300 push buttons.
Specifications
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Up to 11 hours recording time on 32MB xD-Picture Card (Included)
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Upgradeable Memory up to 512MB xD Picture Card
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Up to 7 folders for voice file management (199 messages per folder)
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Records in DSS (Digital Speech Standard) format, developed primarily to meet dictation and transcription needs.
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Compact design and light metal finish combine for a recorder with a professional look and feel and large easy to read LCD with backlight.
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Choose between two combinations of recording modes, SP or LP, and recording sensitivity, Dictate or Conference, to suit your recording needs.
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Dual function cradle for recharging of Ni-MH battery pack ( Optional ) and downloading data to a PC.
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Editing functions (overwrite/insert/delete/security lock).
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Direct dictation into PC through USB cable.
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The DSS Player Pro Dictation software supports encryption of dictations before sending
as email attachments or via FTP.
Includes:
- DS3300 Digital Voice Recorder
- 32MB xD-Picture Card
- Multi-function cradle/docking station
- USB Cable
- DSS Player Pro Dictation software
- User manual
- 2 x AAA Alkaline Battery Case
**Further, if you purchase the ME-52 microphone, KnowBrainer will throw in the 6-Ft 1/8" Plug to 1/8" Jack Shielded Cable for FREE!! The cable helps to eliminate restrictive movement instead of using the default 3-Ft cable the ME-52 microphone comes with. If you plan on using Dragon's Naturally Speaking, the ME-52 and 6-Ft extension cord combination would work very well.
