DIGITAL VOICE
RECORDER

Getting started

1

Recording2

Playback

3

Menu

4

Use with a PC

5

Other information

6

VP-20
USER MANUAL

Thank you for purchasing an Olympus digital voice recorder.
Please read these instructions for information about using the productcorrectly and safely.
Keep the instructions handy for future reference.
• To ensure successful recording, we recommend that you test the record
function and volume before use.
• If there are additions and/or modifications of functions due to firmware update,contents may differ. For the latest information, please visit Olympus website.

ENTable of contents
Names of parts............................................................................. 4
Recorder.................................................................................................4
Display...................................................................................................5

1 Getting started
Setup........................................................................................... 6
Inserting the battery.............................................................................7
Turning the power ON............................................................................8
Setting the inserted battery..................................................................8
Setting the time/date............................................................................9
Charging the battery by connecting to a PC’s USB connector .............10
Charging the battery by connecting to an USB-AC adapter with a
USB connection (model F-5AC)...........................................................11
Batteries....................................................................................13
Turning the power OFF................................................................15
Turning the power OFF........................................................................15

2 Recording
Recording...................................................................................16
Basic recording procedure....................................................................16
Using earphones..................................................................................19
Selecting the automatic recording setting [Rec Scene].................20
Selecting the automatic recording setting [Rec Scene].......................20
Recording with an External Microphone......................................22
Recording by Connecting to an External Device............................23
Recording sounds of an external device..............................................23
Recording sounds of the voice recorder in an external device.............23
Changing the information screen during recording......................24
Changing the information screen during recording............................24

3 PlaybackEN
2

Playback.....................................................................................25
Basic playback procedure.....................................................................25
Fast-forwarding...................................................................................26
Rewinding...........................................................................................26
Skipping to the beginning of a file......................................................27
Listening with earphones....................................................................28
Selecting the automatic playback operation [Play Scene].............29
Selecting the automatic playback operation [Play Scene]..................29
Changing the playback speed......................................................30
Changing the playback speed..............................................................30
Index marks/temp marks............................................................31
Writing an index mark/temp mark......................................................31
Erasing an index mark/temp mark......................................................31

Preventing accidental operation.................................................32
Setting HOLD mode.............................................................................32
Releasing HOLD mode.........................................................................32
Changing the information screen during playback or stop............33
Changing the information screen during playback or stop..................33
Searching for a file [Date Search].................................................34
Using the date search function............................................................34
Erasing files................................................................................35
Erasing files..........................................................................................35

4 MenuSetting menu items....................................................................37
Basic operation....................................................................................37
File menu [File Menu]..................................................................39
Preventing accidental file erasure [File Lock]......................................39
Dividing files [File Divide]....................................................................39
Displaying file information [Property] ................................................39
Recording menu [Rec Menu]........................................................40
Selecting the recording sensitivity [Rec Level]....................................40
Setting the recording mode [Rec Mode].............................................40
Reducing noise caused by rubbing during recording [Anti-Rustle].....41
Start recording after the set time has elapsed [Self-timer].................41
Reducing noise during recording [Low Cut Filter]...............................41
Voice-activated recording function [VCVA].........................................41
Playback menu [Play Menu]........................................................43
Reducing noise during playback [Noise Cancel]..................................43
Adjusting low volume portions during playback [Voice Balancer]......43
Specifying the range to play back [Playback Range]...........................43
Setting the repeat playback [Repeat]..................................................44
Setting a skip space [Skip Space].........................................................44
Changing the folder for playback [Play Folder]...................................45
LCD/Sound menu [LCD/Sound].....................................................46
Setting the backlight [Backlight].........................................................46
Adjusting the contrast [Contrast].........................................................46
Setting the LED indicator light [LED]...................................................46
Turning beeping sound ON/OFF [Beep]...............................................46
Switching the display language [Language].......................................47
Selecting the speaker output [Speaker]..............................................47
Playing the beginning of files automatically [Intro Play]....................47

﻿﻿Table of contents
Device menu [Device]..................................................................48
Switching the microphone/earphone jack [Select Jack].....................48
Setting auto power off mode [Power Off]...........................................48
Setting the recording standby duration [Rec Standby].......................48
Setting the battery in use [Battery].....................................................49
Setting the time/date [Time & Date] ..................................................49
Restoring the default settings [Reset Settings]...................................50
Formatting the internal memory [Format].........................................50
Checking the internal memory information [Memory Info.]...............51
Confirming the voice recorder information [System Info.]..................51
Dividing files [File Divide]............................................................52
Dividing files [File Divide]....................................................................52
Changing the folder for playback [Play Folder].............................54
Changing the folder for playback [Play Folder]...................................54
Formatting the internal memory [Format]...................................56
Formatting the internal memory [Format].........................................56

5 Use with a PC
PC operating environment..........................................................58
PC connection/disconnection.......................................................60
Connecting the voice recorder to a PC.................................................60
Disconnecting the voice recorder from a PC.........................................62
Loading a file to a PC...................................................................63
Usage as external memory of the PC............................................65
Listening to files transferred from a PC........................................66
To listen a transferred file....................................................................66

6 Other information
Alarm message list......................................................................68
Troubleshooting .........................................................................70
Other..........................................................................................73
Recorder care.......................................................................................73
Accessories (optional)..........................................................................73
Copyright and trademark information.........................................74
Safety precautions......................................................................75
Specifications.............................................................................79

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3

Names of parts
Recorder1Names of parts

2

7

3

8

4

!
9

@

0

#
$
%

5
^
6

&
*

(

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4

1 Microphone/Earphone jack ( )2 REC (record) switch
3 Display
4 MENU/SCENE button
5 `PLAY/4STOP button
6 Built-in speaker
7 Built-in stereo microphone (R)
8 POWER/HOLD switch
9 0 button
0 – button! + button@ 9 button# OK button$ Built-in stereo microphone (L)% Clip^ LED indicator light (LED)& Battery cover* USB connector( USB connector coverNames of parts
Display44
During recording
2

3

4

1 Battery (☞ P.12)
2 Voice recorder status indicator
[
[
[
[
[
[
[
[
[

]: Recording (☞ P.16)]: VCVA recording stand-by (☞ P.42)]: Stop]: Playback (☞ P.25)]: Playback pause (☞ P.25)]: Fast forward (☞ P.26)]: Fast rewind (☞ P.26)]: Fast playback (☞ P.30)]: Slow playback (☞ P.30)

5678

9

Names of parts

1

44
During stop or playback

5 File length/Elapsed playback time
6 Playback range (☞ P.43)
7 Repeat
8 File lock (☞ P.39)
9 Playback folder(when [Music] folder is selected)

3 Elapsed recording time
4 Current file number in folder/Total
number of recorded files in folder

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5

Getting started
Setup
1

After unpacking the voice recorder, follow the steps below to have it ready for use.

Setup

Step

1

3
Step

2

3
Step

3

3
Step

4

3
Step

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6

5

Inserting the battery

Turning the power ON

Selecting the battery setting
Select the battery setting to match the inserted battery. Select the setting
for a nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery or the setting for an alkaline
battery.

Setting the time/date
Set the voice recorder’s clock for use with file management.

Charging the recorderSetupInserting the battery
Before using the voice recorder, insert the battery in the battery compartment of the voicerecorder.

1

1

Setup

Open the battery cover whilepressing the cover lock knob in
the direction of the arrow.

3

Close the battery cover until it iscompletely closed.
1

1

3
Cross section

3

2

2
b

a

a Do not attempt to open the battery
cover by force.

2

Insert an AAA battery, making
sure its positive and negative
terminals are placed correctly.
2
1

c

b Tab
c When attaching the cover, slide thetab of the battery cover under theouter shell of the recorder.
NOTE• Be sure to firmly close the battery
cover (close until the battery cover lockclicks).
• Be sure to charge the battery before
you start recording.

Insert the battery’s
negative terminal first.

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Setup1

Turning the power ON

Setting the inserted battery

1

1

Setup

While the voice recorder is turnedoff, slide the POWER/HOLD switch
in the direction of the arrow.

Press the + or – button to selectthe type of battery you inserted.

[Ni-MH] ( )Select if you inserted an Olympus
nickel-metal hydride rechargeable
battery (model BR404).
[Alkaline] ( )Select if you inserted an alkaline
battery.

2
POWER/HOLD switch

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8

Press the OK button to finalize
the setting.

SetupSetting the time/date
1

TIP• You can change the clock display
format. See “Setting the time/date[Time & Date]” (☞ P.49) for theprocedure.

1
Setup

2

Press the 9 or 0 button to
select the item to set.

Press the + or – button to change
the number.

• To change the setting of another item,
press the 9 or 0 button to movethe blinking cursor, then press the + or
– button to change the number.

3

Press the OK button to finalize
the setting.

EN
9SetupCharging the battery by connecting to a PC’s USB connector

1

4

NOTE

Setup

• Before charging the battery, insert therechargeable battery provided and set[Battery] to [Ni-MH].

1

Start the PC.

2

Remove the USB connector cover.

• Press the OK button while thismessage is blinking.
• The LED indicator light lights whilecharging.

5
1

2
Slide open the USB connector cover using thepad of your finger.

3

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After making sure the voicerecorder is stopped, connect theUSB connector to a USB port on aPC.

Press the OK button to start
charging.

Charging has finished when[Battery full] appears.

SetupCharging the battery by connecting to an USB-AC adapter with a USB
connection (model F-5AC)
The battery can be recharged by connecting the recorder to the provided USB-AC adapter (F-5AC).

1

Connect the USB-AC adapter toan AC power outlet.

Setup

3

NOTE
• Before charging the battery, insert therechargeable battery provided and set[Battery] to [Ni-MH].

1

To an AC power
outletRemove the USB connector cover.

1

2

4

Press the OK button to start
charging.

Slide open the USB connector cover using thepad of your finger.

2

Connect the voice recorder to the
USB connector on the USB-AC
adapter.
To USB connectorof USB-AC adapter(model F-5AC)• Press the OK button while thismessage is blinking.
• The LED indicator light lights whilecharging.

5

Charging has finished when[Battery full] appears.

NOTE• Use only the Olympus USB connecting
USB-AC adapter model provided(F-5AC).

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SetupBattery indicator1

As the battery loses its remaining charge, thebattery indicator on the display changes asfollows:

Setup• [] indicates there is little remaining
battery charge. Charge the battery. When] andthe battery has run out, [[Battery low] appears, operation stops.
TIP• Charging the recorder, release the
HOLD mode. While the recorder is in
HOLD mode, any button operations are
disabled (☞ P.32).
• Charging time: About 3 hours** Approximate time needed to fully
charge a completely flat battery atroom temperature.
The charging time depends on theamount of remaining power and thestate of the battery.

NOTE

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12

• Never attempt to charge an alkaline
battery, lithium battery or otherprimary cell battery. Fluid leakage oroverheating may cause the recorder tomalfunction.
• The power of PC must be ON to charge
the battery using the USB connector.
You cannot charge the battery when
the power of PC is OFF, or the PC is instandby, sleep or auto power off mode.

• Do not use a USB hub when charging
the battery by connecting to the PC.
]*1 or []*2 is displayed• When [the battery cannot be charged. Charge
the battery in an ambient temperatureof between 5 and 35°C (41 and 95°F).
]: Ambient temperature is too
*1 [
low.
]: Ambient temperature is too
*2 [
high
• If battery life has become noticeably
short on a full charge, replace thebattery with a new one.
• Insert the USB connector securely all
the way. Operation will not be normal if
the connection is not made properly.
• Use the USB extension cable provided
if needed.
• Use only a compatible Olympus USB
extension cable. Operation is notguaranteed if another manufacturer’scable is used. Only use the Olympus
USB extension cable with the voicerecorder and never use if a productfrom another manufacturer is used.
• Use only the Olympus USB connecting
USB-AC adapter model provided(F-5AC).

Batteries
Rechargeable batteries
Read the information below carefully whenusing a nickel-metal hydride rechargeable
battery (model BR404).
Rechargeable batteries discharge naturally
when not in use. Be sure to charge thebattery before use.

44
Operating temperature
Rechargeable batteries are chemical-based
products. Their performance can varyeven when used within the recommended
operating temperature range. This variation
is normal.

44
Recommended temperature
range
When powering voice recorder: 0 to 42°C
(32 to 107.6°F)
When being charged: 5 to 35°C (41 to 95°F)
During long-term storage: –20 to 30°C(–4 to 86°F)
Use of a rechargeable battery outside thetemperature ranges above may result indrops in battery performance or life. When
not using the voice recorder for an extended
period, remove the rechargeable battery
before storage to prevent fluid leakage orrust.

• The voice recorder does not support
manganese batteries.
• When replacing the battery, use an AAA
alkaline dry cell battery or an Olympus
nickel-metal hydride rechargeable
battery (model BR404). Operation is notguaranteed. If a battery from anothermanufacturer is used.
• The [Battery] screen appears
automatically after you have replaced
the battery. You can also use a menu
operation to display this screen and set
the battery (☞ P.49). After replacing
the battery, turn on the power andthen make sure you set the settings on
the [Battery] screen and [Time & Date]screen before recording.
• You may need to reset the time/date
if the battery is removed from thevoice recorder for over one minute,or if the battery is quickly removed
and replaced. See “Setting the time/
date [Time & Date]” (☞ P.49) for theprocedure.
• Due to the nature of nickel-metal
hydride rechargeable batteries, newbatteries and batteries not used for an
extended period (one month or more)
may not charge completely. The battery
should become fully charged after
charging and discharging the battery
up to three times.
• Always dispose rechargeable batteries
in the legally prescribed manner. Before
disposing rechargeable batteries thatare not fully discharged, take steps toprevent shorting such as insulating
their terminals with tape.

1
Batteries

44
Discharging

NOTE

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Batteries
1Batteries
EN
14• Always turn power off before replacing
the battery. Files may be damaged if
the battery is removed while the voicerecorder is recording or performing an
operation such as erasing a file.
],• Even if the battery indicator is [playback with the built-in speaker atsome volumes may result in a dropin battery output voltage, causing
the voice recorder to reset. Lower thevolume in this case.
• The continuous battery usage time ofa nickel-metal hydride rechargeable
battery that has been used repeatedly
will be reduced due to battery
degradation (☞ P.80).
• Battery life will be shorter when using
a nickel-metal hydride rechargeable
battery that has been used repeatedly(☞ P.80).

For customers in Germany:
Olympus has an agreement with the GRS(Joint Battery Disposal Association) in
Germany to ensure environmentally-friendly
battery disposal.

Turning the power OFF
Turning the power OFF
Existing data, mode settings and the clock setting are saved when the power is turned OFF.

Slide the POWER/HOLD switch in
the direction of the arrow for atleast 0.5 seconds.

Auto power off mode
When the voice recorder has been
stopped for at least 5 minutes (default
setting) after power ON, the display
disappears and the voice recorder
automatically turns off (☞ P.48).
• To reuse the voice recorder, turn the
power ON again.

Turning the power OFF

1

1

NOTE

• The playback stop position at power
OFF is stored in the memory.
TIP• Turning the power OFF whenever thevoice recorder is not in use minimizes
battery consumption.

• The voice recorder will not be turned
off during recording, even if the
POWER/HOLD switch operated.
• If the [Rec Standby] function isenabled, the voice recorder will remain
in recording standby state even after
the power is turned off so the battery
will deplete more quickly. Once thetime set for [Rec Standby] elapses, thepower turns off completely (☞ P.48).

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Recording
RecordingEven if a recording opportunity suddenly arrises, you can start recording from the power off
state. Up to 999 recordings can be made.

2

Basic recording procedure

Recording1

Point the built-in microphonein the direction of the sound torecord.

• The LED indicator light lights, and [ ]appears in the display.
• After replacing the battery, turn on the
power and then make sure you set thesettings on the [Battery] screen and[Time & Date] screen before recording.
• If you record simple recording content
at the beginning, it will be convenient
for searching later using the [DateSearch] function (☞ P.34).

3

Built-in stereo
microphone
LED indicator
light

2

b Recording indicatorc Elapsed recording time

Slide the REC switch to stop
recording in the direction of thearrow.

Slide the REC switch to start
recording in the direction of thearrow.
a• [] appears in the display.
TIP

b

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c

a Current file number in folder/Total
number of recorded files in folder• Recording is not stopped bypressing the `PLAY/ 4STOP
button.

Recording
Sound files recorded with the voicerecorder are automatically given a filename in the format below.

VP200001 .MP3
1

2

TIP
• When recording with the voice recorderin a pocket or alike, secure it with a clip
to prevent if from moving.
• Even if recording starts during
playback of a file in the [Music] folder,
the recorded file will be saved in the[Recorder] folder (☞ P.54).

• To prevent the beginning of therecording being cut off, start recording
after the LED indicator light has lit ormode indicator has appeared in thedisplay.
• When the remaining possible recording
time is 60 seconds, the LED indicatorlight starts flashing. It flashes more
rapidly as the remaining time decreases(at the 30- and 10-second points).
• When [Folder full] appears, no morerecording can be done. You will need todelete unneeded files to record more(☞ P.35, P.68).
• If [Memory full] appears, the voicerecorder has no more available
memory space. You will need todelete unneeded files to record more(☞ P.35, P.68).
• Processing performance may
be reduced when data has been
repeatedly written to or deleted fromthe recording media. Please initialize
the recording media in this case(☞ P.56).

2
Recording

1 File number
File numbers are assigned
consecutively.
2 Extension
A file extension indicating therecording format the file was recorded
in by the voice recorder.
• Linear PCM format: “.WAV”• MP3 format: “.MP3”

NOTE

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Recording
Recording linear PCM format data over
2 GB

2Recording

When recording a linear PCM format file,recording will continue even after the file size
exceeds 2 GB.
• The data is divided and saved in separate
files of up to 2 GB. The files are processed
as multiple files during playback.
• After recording 999 files which exceed 2GB
recording stops.

Recording settings
For various recording conditions, different
recording settings are available.
[Rec Level](☞ P.40)

Sets the recording sensitivity.

[Rec Mode](☞ P.40)

Sets the recording sound quality.

[Self Timer](☞ P.41)

Recording starts when the set
time has elapsed.

[Anti-Rustle] *(☞ P.41)

Reduce noise caused by thevoice recorder rubbing against
clothing (rustling sounds) whenrecording in your pocket.

Reduces humming sounds[Low Cut Filter]from equipment such as air(☞ P.41)
conditioners or projectors.
[VCVA](☞ P.41)

Sets the trigger level for voiceactivated recording (VCVA).

[Rec Scene](☞ P.20)

Used to select one of multiple
preregistered templates ofrecording settings. Whenselected, each template entersseveral settings tailored to aparticular recording locationor condition all in a single
operation.

* When recording with the voice recorder in a
pocket or alike, secure it with a clip to prevent if
from moving.

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Recording
Using earphones
If you connect commercially available
earphones to the microphone/earphonejack ( ) of the voice recorder, you will beable to listen to the audio during recording
and playback.

1

Connect the earphones to the voicerecorder’s microphone/earphonejack ( ).
To microphone/earphone jack• Changing the volume will not affectthe recording level.
• There will be no sound from the
speaker when the earphones areconnected.

2
Recording• Use the +/– button to adjust the recording
monitor volume.
• Earphones are not supplied with thisproduct.

NOTE• To avoid unpleasantly loud sound, set
the volume to [00] before plugging in
the earphone.
• To prevent feedback, do not place theearphone near the microphone while
recording.
• Avoid excessive volume when listening
to playback through the earphones. It
may cause hearing damage or loss.
• If the volume is set too loud, a warning
screen may appear.
• Battery life depletes quickly while
recordings are monitored. To conserve
battery life, leave the earphone
disconnected while recording.
• If the [Anti-Rustle] function (☞ P.41)
is enabled, you may sound like an echo
during monitoring the recording.
• If you cannot hear sound even afterconnecting the earphones, set [SelectJack] to [Earphone].

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Selecting the automatic recording setting [Rec Scene]
Selecting the automatic recording setting [Rec Scene]

2

The voice recorder has preregistered templates of optimum settings tailored to various
recording applications such as conference and dictation. When selecting one of thesetemplates you can enter several settings recommended for your recording application all in asingle operation.

Selecting the automatic recording setting [Rec Scene][Pocket]

Suitable for recording sounds over a wide area while the voice recorder is stillin your pocket.

[DNS]

For Speech Recognition Software.

[Dictation]

Suitable for recording your own voice and other sounds that are extremely
close.

[Conference]

Suitable for recording conferences in a large space and other sounds over awide area.

[Meeting]

Suitable for recording meetings held in a small space and other sounds thatare fairly close.

1

While the voice recorder is in stop
mode, press and hold the MENU/SCENE button.

2

Press the OK button.

• Press the 0 button to return to theprevious screen.

3

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Press the + or – button to
select the desired recording
application.

4

Press the OK button to finalize
the setting.

• According to the setting, the setting
icon is displayed.

5

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button toexit the menu screen.

• See "Preregistered [Rec Scene]settings" for more information(☞ P.21).

Selecting the automatic recording setting [Rec Scene]
Selecting the automatic recording setting [Rec Scene]
NOTE

Preregistered [Rec Scene] settings[Pocket]:[Rec Level][High]*1[Rec Mode][MP3 128k ST][Anti-Rustle][High][Low Cut Filter][OFF][Dictation]:[Rec Level][Low]*2[Rec Mode][MP3 128k ST][Anti-Rustle][OFF][Low Cut Filter][ON][Conference]:[Rec Level][Auto][Rec Mode][MP3 128k ST][Anti-Rustle][OFF][Low Cut Filter][ON][Meeting]:[Rec Level][High][Rec Mode][MP3 128k ST][Anti-Rustle][Low][Low Cut Filter]

[OFF]

2
Selecting the automatic recording setting [Rec Scene]• When a recording scene is selected,
recording-related menu settingscannot be used in combination withthe recording scene. If you attempt touse any of those functions, the [RecScene] setting will be automatically set
to [OFF].

[DNS]:[Rec Level][Low]*2[Rec Mode][MP3 128k ST][Anti-Rustle][OFF][Low Cut Filter][OFF]*1 The recording sensitivity is set to a level that iseven higher than [High].
*2 The recording sensitivity is set to a level that iseven lower than [Low].

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Recording with an External Microphone
Sound can be recorded by connecting an external microphone to the microphone/earphonejack ( ) of the voice recorder.

1

2

Connect an external microphone
to the microphone/earphone jack( ) of the voice recorder.

Recording with an External Microphone

To microphone/earphone jack2

Start recording.
• See “Recording” for about therecording procedure (☞ P.16).

TIP• You can use a plug-in powercompatible microphone.
• See “Accessories (optional)” forabout usable external microphones(☞ P.73).

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NOTE
• Set [Select Jack] to [Microphone]when it is set to [Earphone] or when
the connected external microphonecannot be detected properly even if[Auto] is selected (☞ P.48).
• When an external monauralmicrophone is connected andrecording is performed, sound isrecorded only on the L channel if you
set [Rec Mode] to stereo (☞ P.40).
• When an external stereo microphone isconnected and recording is performed,
sound from only the L channel
microphone is recorded if you set [RecMode] to monaural (☞ P.40).

Recording by Connecting to an External Device
Recording sounds of an external
deviceRecording sounds of the voicerecorder in an external device
Connect the audio input terminal(microphone jack) of an external device andthe microphone/earphone jack ( ) of thevoice recorder using the connecting cord
KA333 (sold separately) to record sounds ofthe voice recorder in the connected device.

• Set [Select Jack] to [Microphone] inadvance (☞ P.48).

• Set [Select Jack] to [Earphone] in advance(☞ P.48).

To microphone/earphone jackTo output terminal of
the external device

To microphone/earphone jackTo input terminal of
the external device

NOTE• When connecting an external device,
make a trial recording and adjust theoutput level of the external device.

2
Recording by Connecting to an External Device

Connect the audio output terminal(earphone jack) of an external device and themicrophone/earphone jack ( ) of the voicerecorder using the connecting cord KA333(sold separately) to record sounds of theconnected device.

NOTE• When you adjust various playbackrelated sound quality settings on thevoice recorder, the audio signal output
from the microphone/earphone jack( ) also changes (☞ P.60, P.62).

EN23

Changing the information screen during recording
Changing the information screen during recording
You can change the information screen during recording.

2

1

While the voice recorder is in recording mode, press the OK button.

Changing the information screen during recording• Each press of the OK button changes the information screen.
1 Elapsed recording time screen (default screen)
You can display the elapsed recording time andcurrent file number in folder.
2 Recording level meter screen
The meter changes according to recording volume
and recording function setting.
3 Functions indicator screen
You can display the indicator of functions andremaining recording time.
4 Time and date screen
You can display the current time and date.

44
Meanings of indicators (same for all modes)
[
[
[
[
[
[

]: Battery type (☞ P.49)]: Select Jack (☞ P.48)]: Possible recording time]: Noise Cancel (☞ P.43)]: Voice Balancer (☞ P.43)]: Rec Level (☞ P.40)

[
[
[
[
[

]: Low Cut Filter (☞ P.41)]: Anti-Rustle (☞ P.41)]: Rec Mode (☞ P.40)]: Rec Scene (☞ P.20)]: Play Scene (☞ P.29)

NOTE

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• The information screen return to default screen if the voice recorder will be changed toother operation (stop, playback, recording).

PlaybackPlayback
In addition to files recorded by the voice recorder, you can also play files in WAV, MP3 format
transferred from a PC.

Basic playback procedure
1

a

3

b

TIP

2

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button tostart playback.

cc Playback indicatord Elapsed playback time
• [] appears in the display.

d3• The volume can be adjusted to asetting between [00] to [30]. The
higher the number, the louder thevolume.
• If the volume is set too loud, a warning
screen may appear.

a Current file number in folder/Total
number of recorded files in folderb File length• The file length display appears for
3 seconds.
• You can search for voice files byspecifying a recording date(☞ P.34).

Press the + or – button to adjust
the volume to the desired level.

Playback

Press the 9 or 0 button to
select the desired playback file.

4

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button tostop playback.

• [ ] appears in the display.
• The file being played stops right away.
The resume function automaticallystores the playback stop position inmemory. The position is retained even
if the power is turned OFF. The nexttime the power is turned ON, playback
can be resumed from the stop position
stored in the memory.

EN
25

PlaybackFast-forwarding

Rewinding
9 button

0 button

3
Playback

Fast-forwarding during playback

1

Press and hold the 9 button
during playback.
• Playback starts from the current
position when you release the 9
button.
• If an index mark or temp mark in thefile is reached, fast-forwarding stops at
the mark (☞ P.31).
• Fast-forwarding stops when the endof the file is reached. Press and holdthe 9 button again to fast-forwardfrom the beginning of the next file.

EN
26

Rewinding during playback

1

Press and hold the 0 button
during playback.
• Playback starts from the current
position when you release the 0
button.
• If an index mark or temp mark in thefile is reached, rewinding stops at themark (☞ P.31).
• Rewinding stops when the beginningof the file is reached. Press and holdthe 0 button again to rewind fromthe end of the previous file.

Playback
Skipping to the beginning of a file
Skipping to the beginning of thenext file1

Press the 9 button while thevoice recorder is in stop mode, or
during playback.

1

Press the 0 button while thevoice recorder is in stop mode, or
during playback.

• If an index mark or temp markis reached when skipping to thebeginning of a file during playback,playback starts from the position of themark. When skipping to the beginningof a file while the voice recorder isin stop mode, the mark is ignored(☞ P.31).
• If a setting other than [File Skip]
is set for [Skip Space], playback
starts after the set amount of time
has been skipped backwards orforwards. Playback does not skip to thebeginning of the file.

3
Playback

Skipping to the beginning of thecurrent file

NOTE

Skipping to the beginning of theprevious file1

Press the 0 button when
the playback position is the
beginning of the file.
• To skip to the beginning of theprevious file during playback, press the
0 button twice consecutively.
TIP• To skip the files continuously, pressing
the 0 or 9 button while therecorder is in stop mode.

EN
27

PlaybackPlayback settings
You can select various file playback methods
tailored to different applications and tastes.

3
Playback[Noise Cancel]*(☞ P.43)

A setting that makes recorded
voices more discernable whenmuffled by projector noise orsimilar sounds.

[Voice Balancer]*(☞ P.43)

Compensates low‑volume
portions of recorded audio files
during playback.

28

You can connect earphones to themicrophone/earphone jack ( ) of the voicerecorder to listen to its sound.
• Earphones are not included.

1

Connect the earphones to themicrophone/earphone jack ( )of the voice recorder.

Selects whether to play back[Playback Range]
individual files or all files in(☞ P.43)a folder.
[Repeat](☞ P.44)

Repeatedly plays back therange selected in [Playback
Range].

[Skip Space](☞ P.44)

A handy function for quickly
moving the playback position,and playing short segments
repeatedly.

[Play Scene](☞ P.29)

Switches to the playback
operation setting. In this setting
transcription can be madewhile listening to recorded
content.

[Play Folder](☞ P.54)

Use this when you wish toswitch to the [Recorder] folder
or another folder in [Music].

* This function is only available when a file inthe [Recorder] folder is selected.

EN

Listening with earphones

To microphone/earphone jack2

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button tostart playback.
• When the earphones are connected,
no sound is output from the speaker.

f CAUTION
Avoid excessive volume when listening
to playback through the earphones. It may
cause hearing damage or loss.
NOTE• To avoid irritation to ears, set thevolume to [00] before wearing
earphones.
• If the volume is set too high whenusing the earphones, a warning screen
may be displayed.
• Set [Select Jack] to [Earphone] when
you cannot hear sound even when theearphones are connected, or whenplaying back with an external speaker(☞ P.48).

Selecting the automatic playback operation [Play Scene]
Selecting the automatic playback operation [Play Scene]
The beginning or end of the wrong file is never selected even when you perform the forward
or return operation repeatedly. You can also use the fast or slow playback function at the same
time.
This is convenient for creating the minutes and written records from audio files ofmeetings, interviews, and other events where multiple people speak.

[Language study]

This is convenient for playing back conversations and language study content
many times repeatedly.

1

While the voice recorder is in stop
mode, press and hold the MENU/SCENE button.

2

Press the + or – button to select[Play Scene].

3

Press the OK button.

5

Press the OK button to finalize
the setting.

6

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button toexit the menu screen.

• See "Preregistered [Play Scene]settings" for more information(☞ P.38).

3
Selecting the automatic playback operation [Play Scene][Transcription]• Press the 0 button to return to theprevious screen.

4

Press the + or – button to selectthe desired preset playbacksettings package.
EN
29

Changing the playback speed
Changing the playback speed
You can change the playback speed. Changing the playback speed is handy for speeding
up conference presentations, or for slowing down parts difficult to discern when learning alanguage.

3

1

Changing the playback speed

2

Press and hold the `PLAY/4STOP
button during playback.

Press the + or – button to selectthe desired playback speed.

Fast playback restrictions• You can set the playback speed from[x 0.5] (slow) to [x 1.0] (normal) to[x 2.0] (fast).

3

Press the OK button.

aa Playback speed display• To return to the normal playback
speed, set the setting to [x1.0].

EN
30

NOTE
• Altered playback speed settings are
retained even after power OFF.
• Changing the playback speed will makethe battery deplete more quickly.
• The function below cannot be used
when changing the playback speed.
• [Noise Cancel] (☞ P.43)

Depending on their sampling rate and bit
rate, some files may not play normally. In thiscase you will need to reduce the playback
speed.

Index marks/temp marks
Writing an index mark or temp mark in a file enables you to quickly access desired position in
the file with the same operations used for fast-forwarding, rewinding or skipping to the start ofa file.
You can write the index marks in the files created with this product. You may not be able towrite the index marks in the files created with other Olympus recorders. You can write thetemp marks in the files which index marks cannot be written in. For files created with a deviceof other than Olympus, you can write the temp marks. You can write the index marks during
recording, playback, and stop.

Erasing an index mark/temp mark1

1

Select a file that contains index
mark/temp mark you want toerase and start playback.

2

Use the 9 or 0 button to
select the index mark/temp markyou want to erase.

3

When the number of the index
mark/temp mark to erase is being
shown (for about 2 seconds) inthe display, press and hold the OK
button.

At the position to add an index
mark or temp mark, press andhold the OK button.

3
Index marks/temp marks

Writing an index mark/temp mark

NOTE
• Temp marks are temporary markings.
They are automatically erased when
you select a different file, transfer the
file to a PC, or move the file on a PC.
• You can write up to 99 index marks/
temp marks in a single file. The
message [Index Full] or [Temp Full]
appears if you attempt to write morethan 99 marks.
• You cannot write or erase index
marks/temp marks in files that havebeen locked by the file lock function(☞ P.39).
• Index marks may not be written in a filecreated on this product and played on
a computer.

• Any subsequent index marks/temp
marks in the file are automaticallyrenumbered.

EN
31

Preventing accidental operation
Setting the voice recorder to HOLD mode maintains the current operation and disables button
operations. HOLD mode is a handy feature for preventing unintentional operation from
accidental button presses when the voice recorder is carried in a bag or pocket.

3

Setting HOLD mode

Releasing HOLD mode

1

1

Slide the POWER/HOLD switch tothe [HOLD] position.

Slide the POWER/HOLD switch toposition A shown below.

Preventing accidental operationa• [Hold] appears in the display, and therecorder enters HOLD mode.
• ON and OFF of the REC switch areactive in the HOLD mode.
NOTE• When any button is pressed during HOLD mode, [Hold] appears in the display for 2
seconds. No other operation is performed.
• Setting HOLD mode during voice recorder playback continues the playback operationand prevents any other operation from being performed (the voice recorder stops when
playback ends).

EN32

Changing the information screen during playback or stop
Changing the information screen during playback or stop
You can change the information screen during playback or stop.

1

While the voice recorder is in playback mode or stop mode, press the OK
button.
• Each press of the OK button changes the information screen.

You can display the elapsed playback time andcurrent file number in folder.
2 Recording time/date screen ([Recorder] folder is selected)
You can display the recording time and date ofcurrent file.
File name screen ([Music] folder is selected)
You can display the name of current file.

3 Functions indicator screen
You can display the indicator of functions andremaining recording time (☞ P.24).
4 Time and date screen

Changing the information screen during playback or stop

1 Elapsed playback time screen (default screen)3

You can display the current time and date.

NOTE• The information screen return to default screen if the voice recorder will be changed toother operation (stop, playback, recording).

EN
33

Searching for a file [Date Search]
Using the date search function
You can search for voice files by specifying a recording date.
NOTE• Only files in the [Recorder] folder can be searched..

3

1

Searching for a file [Date Search]

While the voice recorder is in stop
mode, press and hold the MENU/SCENE button.

5

Press the OK button.

6

Press the + or – button to selectthe desired file.
a2

a File nameb File number/Number of files
registered for the selected date3

Press the OK button.

4

Press the + or – button to selectthe desired recording date.

TIP• Each time you select a file, the voicerecorder can automatically play the
beginning of the file for 10 seconds(☞ P.47).
• To prevent the voice recorder fromplaying back automatically, set[Intro Play] to [OFF] (☞ P.47).

7• All of the dates on which recordings
were made are displayed. Select the date
you are searching for from the dates.

EN
34

b

Press the + or – button to select[Date Search].

Press the OK button to start
playback.

NOTE• To perform a date search, you need toset [Time & Date] in advance (☞ P.49).

Erasing files
Erasing files
This section describes how to erase a single unneeded file from a folder, erase all the files in thecurrent folder at once.

1

Press the 9 or 0 button to
select the file you want to erase.

5

2

3

While the voice recorder is in stop
mode, press the MENU/SCENE
button.

[One file]:
Erases only the selected file.
[All in folder]:Erases all the files saved in the same
folder as the selected file.

6

3
Erasing files

The file of this number iserased. After it is erased,
renumbering is performed
automatically.

Press the + or – button to select[One file] or [All in folder].

Press the OK button.

• If no operation is performed for 8
seconds during menu operation, theprevious screen is redisplayed.

Press the OK button.
7

Press the + button to select[Start].

8

Press the OK button.

• The voice recorder returns to thestopped mode if no operation is
performed for 3 minutes.

4

Press the OK button again.

• [Erasing] appears in the display, andthe erasing process starts. [Erased]
appears when the process has finished.

EN
35

Erasing files
NOTE

3
Erasing files
EN36• Stop recording or playback before
erasing.
• Files cannot be restored after being
erased, so please check carefully before
erasing a file.
• Locked files and read-only files cannot
be erased (☞ P.39).
• If there is a file that cannot berecognized by the recorder, the file
will not be erased. The voice recordermust be connected to a PC to erase
these files.
• Before erasing a file, charge or replace
the battery to ensure it will not run
out before the process has finished.
Erasing processes can take over 10
seconds to complete. To prevent therisk of damage to data, never remove
the battery before an erasing process
has finished.

Menu
Setting menu items
Basic operation
The menus consist of the following five setting menus: [File Menu], [Rec Menu], [Play Menu],[LCD/Sound], and [Device], which each provide useful functions to meet a variety of needs.
Follow the steps below to set a menu item.

1• Press the 0 button to return to theprevious screen.

4

Press the + or – button to selectthe desired setting item.

5

Press the OK button.

Press the + or – button to selectthe setting menu containing item
you want to set.

6

Press the + or – button to change
the setting.

Press the OK button.

7

Press the OK button to finalize
the setting.

TIP• Some menus contain items thatcan be set during recording/playback (☞ P.38).

2

3• The setting item of the selected
setting menu is displayed.
• You can also use the 9 button to
perform this operation.

• A message indicating the setting has
been entered appears.

4
Setting menu items

Press the MENU/SCENE button
during recording, playback or
stop.

EN
37

Setting menu items
Basic operation
8

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button toexit the menu screen.

44
Menu items that can be set
during recording;• Backlight• LED

4
Setting menu items• When you enter the menu screen
during recording or playback, press
the MENU/SCENE button to returnto the previous screen without
interrupting recording or playback.
NOTE• For menu settings done while the voicerecorder is in stop mode, the voicerecorder exits the menu and returns tothe stopped mode if no operation is
performed for 3 minutes. The selected
setting item is not changed in this case.
• For menu settings done during
recording/playback, the voice recorderexits the menu if no operation is
performed for 8 seconds.

44
Menu items that can be set
during playback;• Property• Backlight• LED

Preregistered [Play Scene] settings[Transcription]:[STOP ( 4)][Auto Back (3 sec)]*[ 9 (CUE)][x2.0 Play Back][ 0 (REV)][Reviewing][9 (SKIP)][10 sec. Skip][ 0 (SKIP)][3 sec. Skip][Voice Balancer][ON][Language study]:[STOP ( 4)][Stop][ 9 (CUE)][x2.0 Play Back][ 0 (REV)][Reviewing][9 (SKIP)][10 sec. Skip][ 0 (SKIP)][3 sec. Skip][Voice Balancer][OFF]* If you press the `PLAY/4STOP button during
playback, the audio is rewound 3 seconds fromthe position at which the button was pressed andthen stopped.

EN
38

File menu [File Menu]
Preventing accidental file erasure[File Lock]
The file lock feature lets you lock important
files to prevent them being accidentallyerased. Once locked, a file is not erased even
if the operation for erasing all the files in its
folder is performed (☞ P.35).

1

Select the file you want to lock(☞ P.25).

Dividing files [File Divide]

You can display the information of a file froma menu screen.
File information

1

Press the + or – button to switch
the screen.
• [Name] [Date] [Size] [Bit Rate]*1[Artist]*2 [Album]*2 are displayed.
*1 When a linear PCM format file isselected, the sampling rate and bit
count are displayed in the [Bit Rate]
field.
*2 If there is no tag information in
the file, [UNKNOWN_ARTIST] and[UNKNOWN_ALBUM] are displayed.

4File menu [File Menu][ON]:
Locks the file.
[OFF]:
File lock is canceled.

Displaying file information[Property]

Large files or files with long recording times
can be divided for easier management andediting.
See “Dividing files [File Divide]” (☞ P.52)
for the procedure.

EN
39

Recording menu [Rec Menu]
Selecting the recording sensitivity[Rec Level]
You can change the recording level(sensitivity) as needed for your recording
application.

4
Recording menu [Rec Menu][Auto]:The recording sensitivity changes
automatically following the input
volume. This is suitable for recording
general audio.
[High]:The highest recording sensitivity.
Suited to recording lectures, large
conferences and other applications
with distant or quiet sound sources.
[Low]:The lowest sensitivity, this level issuitable for dictation.
TIP• When you wish to record a speaking
voice clearly, set [Rec Level] to [Low],
and place the voice recorder’s built-in
microphone near the speaker’s mouth(5 to 10 cm away).
NOTE• The recording level is adjusted
automatically. Excessively loud soundinput may generate noise.

EN
40

Setting the recording mode
[Rec Mode]
You can prioritize sound quality or recording
time. Select the recording mode that best
matches your recording application.
[PCM][MP3 128k ST][MP3 32k Mono]*[MP3 8k Mono]** Mono recording
TIP• PCM format allows you to faithfullyrecord the original sound because
compression and other processing is
not performed, but the file size will
be large. Check that you have enoughremaining memory before recording.
• To record conferences andpresentations clearly, it isrecommended to set [Rec Mode]setting to [MP3 128k ST].

Recording menu [Rec Menu]
Reducing noise caused by rubbing
during recording [Anti-Rustle]
Reduce noise caused by the voice recorderrubbing against clothing (rustling sounds)
when recording in your pocket.
NOTE[High] [Low]:
Reduces noise caused by rubbing
sounds (rustling sounds) during
recording.
[OFF]:
Turns the rustling sound reduction
function off.

Start recording after the set time
has elapsed [Self-timer]
Self-timer function starts recording after the
set time has elapsed. By setting the time until
recording starts in advance, you can prevent
forgetting to record.
[3 min.][5 min.][10 min.]:
Sets the time until recording starts.
[OFF]:
Turn off the self-timer.

The voice recorder’s low cut filter function
lets you make recordings that reducehumming sounds from air-conditioners or
low-frequency sounds from equipment suchas projectors.
[ON]:
Turns the low cut filter ON.
[OFF]:The low cut filter is disabled.

Voice-activated recording function[VCVA]The voice-activated recording function(VCVA) automatically starts recording whena sound louder than a preset voice activationlevel is detected, and automatically pauses
recording when the sound volume level
falls. Use this function to automatically omit
unneeded quiet segments when recording(such as long silences during conferences),saving memory.

4
Recording menu [Rec Menu]• When recording withthe voice recorder in a
pocket or alike, secure itwith a clip to prevent if
from moving.

Reducing noise during recording[Low Cut Filter][ON]:
Turns VCVA ON. You can adjust thevoice activation level used for VCVA.
[OFF]:
Turns VCVA OFF. Restores standard
recording.

EN
41

Recording menu [Rec Menu]
Adjusting the voice activation level forvoice-activated recording
1

Slide the REC switch to start
recording.
• Recording pauses automatically
about 1 second after the input
sound becomes quieter than the set
activation sensitivity.
The LED indicator light becomes
lit when recording is activated andflashes when recording is paused.

4
Recording menu [Rec Menu]

2

Press the 9 or 0 button toadjust the voice activation level.

baa Voice activation level (moves left/right to match set level)b Level meter (changes in proportion
to recording sound volume)• The setting can be adjusted in 23
steps.
TIP

EN
42• Each press of the 0 button increases
the activation sensitivity level of VCVA,
and a high level will result in recording
starting even with small sounds.
• Adjust the VCVA voice activation levelto suit the recording conditions (tocope with high levels of surrounding
noise or alike).
• To avoid recording mistake, it’srecommended to perform a test
recording beforehand to adjust thevoice activation level.

Playback menu [Play Menu][OFF]:The voice balancer function isdisabled.

Reducing noise during playback[Noise Cancel]
Use the [Noise Cancel] function to reducenoise when a recorded voice is difficult todiscern.

NOTE

Specifying the range to play back[Playback Range]• [Noise Cancel] function is only
available when a file in the [Recorder]
folder is selected.
• If the [Noise Cancel] function is used,
the battery will deplete more quickly.
• The following function will not be
available while you are using the[Noise Cancel] function.
• Changing the playback speed(☞ P.30)

Select the playback range according to yourpreference.

Adjusting low volume portions
during playback [Voice Balancer]

2

The [Voice Balancer] function adjusts lowvolume portions of recorded audio files tomake them louder.
[ON]:
Adjusts low-volume portions of audio
files during playback, making themlouder.

1

Press the + or – button to select[Recorder] or [Music].
[Recorder]:Set the playback range for playing files
recorded with the built-in microphone.
[Music]:Set the playback range for playing files
transferred from a PC.

4
Playback menu [Play Menu][High] [Low]:
Reduces surrounding noise to playback clearer sound quality.
[OFF]: The noise cancel function isdisabled.

NOTE• [Voice Balancer] function is only
available when a file in the [Recorder]
folder is selected.
• Using the [Voice Balancer] function
will drain the battery faster.

Press the + or – button to selectthe setting.
[File]:
Stops playback after the current filehas been played.
[Folder]:Plays all the files in the current folder
consecutively, stopping playback after
the last file in the folder is played.

EN
43

Playback menu [Play Menu]
NOTE

4• When you set [Playback range] to[File], [End] blinks in the display for 2
seconds after the last file in the folder
has been played, then playback stops
at the start position of the last file.
• While [Playback range] is set to[Folder], [End] blinks in the display for
2 seconds after the last file in the folder
has been played, then playback stops
at the start position of the first file in
the folder.

Playback menu [Play Menu]

You can select ON or OFF for repeat playback.

1

2

Press the + or – button to select[Recorder] or [Music].

Press the + or – button to selectthe setting.
[ON]:
Repeatedly plays back the range
selected in [Playback Range].
[OFF]:
Cancels repeat playback.

44

This function skips (forward) or reverse skips(rewinds) the file being played back for a set
amount of time and it is a convenient way tomove the playback position or repeat playing
a short phrase.

1

Press the + or – button to select[Forward Skip] or [Reverse Skip].
[Forward Skip]:Starts playback after moving the
playback position forward by the set
amount.
[Reverse Skip]:Rewinds the set amount of time andstarts playback.

Setting the repeat playback[Repeat][Recorder]:Set repeat playback for playing files
recorded with the built-in microphone.
[Music]:Set repeat playback for playing music
files transferred from a PC.

EN

Setting a skip space [Skip Space]2

Press the + or – button to selectthe setting.
When [Forward Skip] was selected:[File Skip], [30 sec. Skip], [5 min. Skip]

When [Reverse Skip] was selected:[File Skip], [3 sec. Skip], [30 sec. Skip],[5 min. Skip]

NOTE• Forward/reverse skip operations over a
skip space that contains an index mark/temp mark or the starting position of afile will stop at that mark or at the start
position.

Playback menu [Play Menu]
Forward/reverse skip playback
1

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button tostart playback.

2

Press the 9 or 0 button
during playback.
• Playback starts after skipping forward
or backward by the set amount.

You can switch the play folder to the[Recorder] folder containing the files
recorded with the built-in microphone or
the [Music] folder containing music files andstudy content transferred from a PC.
See “Changing the folder for playback [PlayFolder]” (☞ P.54) for the procedure.

4
Playback menu [Play Menu]

Changing the folder for playback[Play Folder]EN
45

LCD/Sound menu [LCD/Sound]
Setting the backlight [Backlight]
The display backlights are switched on fora preset amount of time when a button
operation is performed.

4[5 sec.] [10 sec.] [30 sec.] [1 min.]:
Set the amount of time that thebacklight stays lit.
[OFF]:Disables the backlight.

LCD/Sound menu [LCD/Sound]

Adjusting the contrast [Contrast]
You can adjust the contrast of the display to
12 different levels.

Setting the LED indicator light[LED]​ ou can set the unit so that the LED indicatorYlight does not light. The LED indicator light is
lit or flashing during recording and charging
and while files are being transferred between
the voice recorder and a PC.
[ON]:
LED indicator light is switched on.
[OFF]:The LED indicator does not light.
• Even if you set the [LED] setting to[OFF], the LED indicator light will
flash while files are being transferred
between the voice recorder and a PC.

• The setting can be adjusted to
between [01] to [12].

Turning beeping sound ON/OFF[Beep]The voice recorder makes beeping sounds
when buttons are pressed, or to warn in caseof operation errors. You can select whether
the voice recorder makes these beeping
sounds.
[ON]:
Enables beeping sounds.
[OFF]:Disables beeping sounds.

EN
46

LCD/Sound menu [LCD/Sound]
Switching the display language[Language]
You can select the display language of thevoice recorder.
[English][繁體中⽂]

You can set the built-in speaker to be ON or
OFF when the earphones are not connected.
[ON]:
When the earphone is connected,
sound is output from the earphone
and when the earphone is
disconnected, sound is output fromthe built-in speaker.
[OFF]:
Sound is not output from the built-in
speaker even though the earphone is
disconnected.

Each time you select a file, the voice recorder
can automatically play the beginning of thefile for 10 seconds. This function is convenient
for searching for a file because it allows you
to check the content of files.
[ON]:
Each time you select a file, thebeginning of that file is played for 10
seconds.
[OFF]:
Turns [Intro Play] off.

4
LCD/Sound menu [LCD/Sound]Selecting the speaker output[Speaker]

Playing the beginning of files
automatically [Intro Play]EN
47

Device menu [Device]
Switching the microphone/earphone jack [Select Jack]This jack is used for both microphone andearphones. When [Auto] is selected, theconnected device is automatically detected.

4
Device menu [Device][Auto]:
Automatically detects whether theconnected plug is from an external
microphone or from earphones.
[Microphone]:
Recognizes the connected device as a
microphone.
[Earphone]:
Recognizes the connected device asearphones.
NOTE• When a device is connected to themicrophone/earphone jack, detection
information is displayed.

Setting auto power off mode
[Power Off]The voice recorder turns OFF automaticallywhen a preset amount of time has elapsed
while the voice recorder is in stop mode after
power ON.

EN
48

[5 min.] [10 min.] [15 min.] [30 min.]:
Select the desired amount of time.
[OFF]:Disables auto power off mode. Notethat leaving the voice recorder On willquickly deplete the battery.

NOTE• If the [Rec Standby] function isenabled, the voice recorder will remain
in recording standby state even after
the power is turned off so the battery
will deplete more quickly. Once thetime set for [Rec Standby] elapses, thepower turns off completely.

Setting the recording standby duration[Rec Standby]
Set the recording standby duration for after
the power is turned off. This allows you tostart recording immediately from the power
off state during the set duration.
[1 hr.] [3 hr.] [5 hr.] [10 hr.]:Select the desired amount of time.
[OFF]:
Turns recording standby off.
NOTE
• If the [Rec Standby] function isenabled, the voice recorder will remain
in recording standby state even after
the power is turned off so the battery
will deplete more quickly. Once thetime set for [Rec Standby] elapses, thepower turns off completely.

Device menu [Device]
Setting the battery in use[Battery]Set the battery type to match the battery you
are using.

Setting the time/date[Time & Date]
Set the time and date beforehand to enableeasier management of recorded files.

1

Press the 9 or 0 button to
select the desired setting item.

Press the OK button to finalize
the setting.
TIP• When setting the month and day,each time the MENU/SCENE button ispressed, the display order changes.
Example: March 24, 2020
3M 24D 2020Y(default format)
24D 3M 2020Y• When setting the year, the MENU/SCENE button is pressed, the display
order changes.
Example: March 24, 2020
3M 24D 2020Y(default format)

4
Device menu [Device][Ni-MH]:
Select this setting when using an
Olympus Ni-MH rechargeable battery(model BR404).
[Alkaline]:
Select this setting when using an
alkaline dry cell battery.

3

2020Y 3M 24D

NOTE

2

Press the + or – button to change
the number.

• To change another item, use the 9or 0 button to move flashingposition and use the + or – button tochange the number.

• Even if the voice recorder is not used
for a long period of time, when thebattery is used up, the time and datemust be re-entered.

EN
49

Device menu [Device]
Restoring the default settings[Reset Settings]
This setting is used to return various
functions to the factory default settings(factory default). The clock setting and filenumbers are retained.

1

4

Press the + button to select[Start].

Device menu [Device]

Rec Menu:
Rec Level: Auto
Rec Mode: MP3 128k ST
Anti-Rustle: OFF
Self Timer: OFF
Low Cut Filter: OFF
VCVA: OFFRec Scene: OFF
Play Menu:
Noise Cancel: OFF
Voice Balancer: OFF
Playback Range:
Recorder: File
Music: Folder
Repeat:Recorder: OFF
Music: OFF
Skip Space:
Forward Skip: File Skip
Reverse Skip: File Skip
Play Scene: OFF
Playback Folder: Recorder

EN
50

LCD/Sound:
Backlight: 10 sec.
Contrast: Level 06
LED: ON
Beep: ON
Language: English
Speaker: ON
Intro Play: ON
Device:Select Jack: Auto
Power Off: 5 min.
Rec Standby: OFF
Battery: Ni-MH

Formatting the internal memory[Format]Formatting the internal memory erases all
existing files saved on it. Be sure to transfer allimportant files to a PC before formatting.
See “Formatting the internal memory[Format]” (☞ P.56) for the procedure.

Device menu [Device]
Checking the internal memory
information [Memory Info.]
You can display the capacity and remaining
memory space of the internal memory from amenu screen.
NOTE

Confirming the voice recorderinformation [System Info.]4
Device menu [Device]• Some memory capacity is used as amanagement area, so the actual usable
capacity will always be slightly less thanthe displayed capacity.

You can display voice recorder informationfrom a menu screen.
• Displays system information about thevoice recorder, such as [Model], [Version],and [Serial No.].

EN
51

Dividing files [File Divide]
Dividing files [File Divide]
Large files or files with long recording times can be divided for easier management and editing.
NOTE

6

Press the + button to select[Start].

7

Press the OK button.

• Only MP3-format and PCM-format files
recorded on the voice recorder can bedivided.

4
Dividing files [File Divide]
EN
52

1

Play the file to divide, and stop
playback at the desired division
point.
• Press and hold the 9 or 0
button to fast-forward/rewind.
• Writing an index mark at the division
point beforehand is handy.

2

While the voice recorder is in stop
mode, press the MENU/SCENE
button.

3

Press the OK button.

4

Press the + or – button to select[File Divide].

5

Press the OK button.

• [Dividing] appears in the display, andthe file dividing process starts.
[Completed] appears when theprocess has finished.

8

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button toexit the menu screen.

Dividing files [File Divide]
Dividing files [File Divide]
TIP• The file names after division become“File name_1” for the first half and “Filename_2” for the latter half.

NOTE

4Dividing files [File Divide]• Files cannot be divided if there are 999
files in the folder.
• Locked files (☞ P.39) cannot be
divided.
• It may not be possible to divide someMP3 or PCM files with extremely shortrecording times.
• To prevent the risk of data damage,never attempt to remove the battery
during dividing a file.

EN53

Changing the folder for playback [Play Folder]
Changing the folder for playback [Play Folder]
You can switch the play folder to the [Recorder] folder containing the files recorded with thebuilt-in microphone or the [Music] folder containing music files and study content transferredfrom a PC. The voice recorder can recognize folders up to the second level (C in the figure) inthe [Music] folder.
First level

A

Changing the folder for playback [Play Folder]
54

C

Third level

D

RECORDER

4

EN

Second level

B

VP-20
MUSIC

FolderFile

1

While the voice recorder is in stop
mode, press the MENU/SCENE
button.

2

Press the + or – button to select[Play Menu].

[Recorder]:Select this for playing files recordedwith the built-in microphone.
[Music]:Select this for playing files transferredfrom a PC.

3

Press the OK button.

• Press the 0 button to return to theprevious screen.

4

Press the + or – button to select[Play Folder].

5

Press the OK button.

6

Press the + or – button to select[Recorder] or [Music] (Fig. A).

When [Recorder] was selected☞ Go to Step ÏWhen [Music] was selected☞ Go to Step ‘

7Press the OK button.

Changing the folder for playback [Play Folder]
Changing the folder for playback [Play Folder]8

Press the + or – button to selectthe file or sub folder (Fig. B).

12 Press the + or – button to selectthe file (Fig. D).
• The voice recorder cannot recognize
any folders at the third level (D in the
figure) in the [Music] folder.

When the sub folder was
selected

When the file was selected☞ Go to Step ÏWhen the sub folder was selected☞ Go to Step «9

Press the OK button.

10 Press the + or – button to selectthe file or sub folder (Fig. C).
When the file was selected☞ Go to Step ÏWhen the sub folder was selected☞ Go to Step Í

4Changing the folder for playback [Play Folder]

When the file was selected• Press the 0 button to return to theprevious screen.

13 Press the OK button to finalize
the setting.

11 Press the OK button.

EN
55

Formatting the internal memory [Format]
Formatting the internal memory [Format]
Formatting the internal memory erases all existing files saved on it.

4Formatting the internal memory [Format]
EN
56

1

While the voice recorder is in stop
mode, press the MENU/SCENE
button.

2

Press the + or – button to select[Device].

3

Press the OK button.

4

Press the + or – button to select[Format].

5

Press the OK button.

6

Press the + button to select[Start].

9

Press the OK button.

• [Formatting] is displayed whenformatting starts.
• When [Format done] is displayed,formatting is completed.
TIP• Perform [Reset Settings] to return
various functions to the factory default(☞ P.50).

7

Press the OK button.

8

Press the + button again to select[Start].

Formatting the internal memory [Format]
Formatting the internal memory [Format]
NOTE

4Formatting the internal memory [Format]• Never format the voice recorder from a PC.
• Formatting erases all the existing data, including locked files and read-only files.
• Before formatting, charge or replace the battery to ensure it will not run out before
the process is finished. The formatting process can sometimes take over 10 seconds
to complete. To prevent the risk of damage to data, never remove the battery before aformatting process has finished: Doing so may damage the data.
• Even when formatting or erasing (☞ P.35) is performed, only the file management
information of the internal memory is updated and the recorded data is not completely
erased. Before giving the voice recorder to somebody or disposing of it, perform
initialization and then record silence until there is no recording time remaining in order toprevent the leakage of personal information.

EN
57

Use with a PC
When connecting the voice recorder to a PC you can do the following:• You can enjoy language content or music
files in MP3 and WAV format stored on yourPC (☞ P.66).
• Use the voice recorder as external storage
to save or load data to/from your PC(☞ P.65).

5
PC operating environment

Earphones are not supplied with this product.

PC operating environment
Windows

Macintosh

Operating system:
Microsoft Windows 8.1 / Windows 10
standard installation
PC:
Windows PC with at least one available
USB port

Operating system:
OS X v10.10 - v10.11, macOS v10.12 - v10.14
standard installation
PC:
Apple Macintosh series PC with at least
one available USB port

NOTE

EN
58

• The requirements shown are the operating environments needed for using a USB
connection to save files recorded by the voice recorder on a PC.
• Even when the requirements for the operating environment are satisfying, updated
versions, multi-boot environments, self-modified PCs and other compatible machines will
not be covered under the operational warranty.

PC operating environment
PC connection precautions

5
PC operating environment• When uploading or downloading a file to or from the voice recorder, data transfer willcontinue as long as the voice recorder’s LED indicator light is flashing, even if the PCdata communication screen disappears. Never disconnect the USB connector before
data communication has finished. Always use the procedure on ☞ P.62 to disconnect
the USB connector. Data may not be transferred correctly if you disconnect theconnector before the drive has stopped.
• Do not format (initialize) the voice recorder’s drive from a PC. Formatting done froma PC will not be done correctly. To perform formatting, use the [Format] menu of thevoice recorder (☞ P.56).
• Voice recorder folders or files that are moved or renamed in a Windows or Macintosh file
management screen may be reordered or become unrecognizable.
• Note that it will still be possible to read and write data on the voice recorder after
setting the attribute of the voice recorder’s drive to ’Read only’ on a PC.
• To prevent nearby electronic devices being affected by noise, disconnect the earphones
when connecting the voice recorder to a PC.

EN59

PC connection/disconnection
Connecting the voice recorder to a PC
1

Start the PC.

2

Remove the USB connector cover.

1

5

2

PC connection/disconnection

Slide open the USB connector cover using thepad of your finger

3

After making sure the voicerecorder is stopped, connect theUSB connector to a USB port on aPC.

When you use an Olympus nickelmetal hydride rechargeable battery:• To charge the battery, press the OK
button.
• To cancel the battery charging, press
the any button other than OK.

EN60• While connected to USB, [Remote] isdisplayed on the voice recorder.
• You can transfer files to the PC whilecharging the recorder.
TIP• Windows: The voice recorder isrecognized and displayed in the[Computer] folder with the model
name as the drive name.
• Macintosh: The voice recorder isrecognized and displayed on thedesktop with the model name as thedrive name.
• For information on the PC’s USB port,
see the PC’s user manual.
• Use the USB extension cable provided
if needed.

PC connection/disconnection
Connecting the voice recorder to a PC
NOTE

5PC connection/disconnection• Insert the USB connector securely all
the way. Operation will not be normal if
the connection is not made properly.
• Connecting the voice recorder througha USB hub may result in unstable
operation. Do not use a USB hub if
operation is unstable.
• Use only a compatible Olympus USB
extension cable. Operation is notguaranteed if another manufacturer’scable is used. Also, never use thisdedicated cable with any othercompany’s products.

EN61

PC connection/disconnection
Disconnecting the voice recorder from a PC
Windows

Macintosh

1

1Drag-and-drop the removabledisk icon for the voice recordershown on the desktop to thetrash can icon.

2

Check that the LED indicator lightof the voice recorder has stopped
blinking and then disconnect theUSB cable.

Click [ ] on the task bar in thelower right hand corner of thescreen and click [Eject DIGITAL
VOICE RECORDER].

• The letter used to identify the drive
will vary according to your PC.
• When the window indicating it is safe
to remove hardware appears, close thewindow.

5
PC connection/disconnection

2

Check that the LED indicator lightof the voice recorder has stopped
blinking and then disconnect theUSB cable.

TIP• You can disconnect the USB cable and use the voice recorder before the battery is fully
charged.
NOTE• To prevent the risk of data damage, never disconnect the voice recorder from the USB
port while the LED indicator light is flashing.

EN
62

Loading a file to a PC
Files recorded with the built-in microphone are saved in a folder named [RECORDER] on the
PC. You can copy voice recorder files to any folder on the PC.

44Voice recorder drive name and folder names on the PC
Copying files recorded with the built-in microphone to a PC
VP-20

The folder can store up to 999 files.
001
002

RECORDER
Recordings made withthe microphone are
saved here.

Copy these files to the PC.

5

999

File

Transferring music files and study content

Loading a file to a PC

Folder

MUSIC

VP-20
Place the files to be transferred fromthe PC into this folder.
RECORDER

Each folder can store up to999 files.

First level
Artist 01
MUSIC

Second level
001
Album 01

002

999

EN
63

Loading a file to a PC
TIP
• Up to 130 folders can be created within the [Music] folder (including a [Music] folder
itself ).
• The voice recorder can only recognize two folder sublevels.
NOTE• To prevent the risk of data damage, never disconnect the voice recorder from the USB
port while the LED indicator light is flashing.

5
Loading a file to a PC
EN
64

Usage as external memory of the PC
Connecting the voice recorder to a PC lets you transfer voice recorder data to save in the PC,
and vice-versa.
Windows

Macintosh

1

Connect the voice recorder to thePC (☞ P.60).

12Open Windows Explorer.
• When you open [Computer], the voicerecorder is recognized by the drive
letter that includes the product name.

Click on the folder labeled withyour voice recorder’s model
name.

4

Copy the desired data to the PC.

5

Disconnect the voice recorderfrom the PC (☞ P.62).

• When connected to a Mac OS, thevoice recorder is recognized on
the desktop by the drive letter that
includes the product name.

2

Double-click the removable disk
icon labeled with your voicerecorder’s model name.

3

Copy the desired data to the PC.

4

Disconnect the voice recorderfrom the PC (☞ P.62).

NOTE• During data communication, [Busy] appears in the voice recorder’s display and the LED
indicator light flashes. To prevent the risk of data damage, never disconnect the voicerecorder from the USB port while the LED indicator light is flashing.

5
Usage as external memory of the PC

3Connect the voice recorder to thePC (☞ P.60).

EN65

Listening to files transferred from a PC
To listen a transferred file
You can listen to music files, study content, etc. transferred from a PC.
NOTE• Connect the voice recorder to a PC
and transfer the music files and study
content to the [Music] folder of thevoice recorder beforehand (☞ P.63).
• The voice recorder cannot recognize
any folders at the third level in the[Music] folder.

5
Listening to files transferred from a PC
EN
66

1

2

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button tostart playback.

3

Press the + or – button to adjust
the volume to the desired level.

Select the desired file toplayback.
• If the volume is set too loud, a warning
screen may appear.

4• Use the [Play Folder] menu function
to switch to the [Music] folder andthen select the file (☞ P.54).

Press the `PLAY/4STOP button tostop playback.

Listening to files transferred from a PC
To listen a transferred file
Playable files
The sampling rate, bit count and bit rate
combinations supported for file playback areshown below.
File format

Sampling rate

Bit count/bit
rate

WAV format

22.05 kHz,44.1 kHz

16 bits

MP3 format

MPEG 1 Layer 3:
32 kHz,44.1 kHz,48 kHzMPEG 2 Layer 3:
16 kHz,22.05 kHz,
24 kHz5• MP3 files with variable bit rates (bit rates
converted variably in a single file) may notplay normally.
• Linear PCM-format WAV files are the only
WAV files the voice recorder can play.
Playback of other WAV files is not supported.
• Even if the file formats is compatible forplayback on this recorder, the recorder does
not support every encoder.

Listening to files transferred from a PC

8 to 320 kbps

EN67

Other information
Alarm message list
Message

6
Alarm message list
EN
68

Meaning

Action required

Battery Low

The remaining battery power is low.

Replace or charge the battery(☞ P.7, P.10).

File Locked

The file is locked.

You must unlock the file before you canerase it (☞ P.39).

Index Full

The maximum number of index marks(99) have been written in the file.

Erase unneeded index marks (☞ P.31).

Temp Full

The maximum number of temp marks(99) have been written in the file.

Erase unneeded temp marks (☞ P.31).

Folder Full

The maximum number of files (999) havebeen saved in the folder.

Erase unneeded files (☞ P.35).

Mem. Error

An internal memory error occurred.

Contact the Olympus Customer Support
Center (☞ back cover).

Memory Full

There is no remaining memory.

Erase unneeded files (☞ P.35).

There are no files in the folder.

Record a new file, or select another folder(☞ P.16, P.55).

No file has been selected.

You must select a file before you canperform the operation (☞ P.25, P.66).

Format Err

A formatting problem occurred.

Format the memory again (☞ P.56).

Sysfile Err

The voice recorder is unable to create amanagement file due to low remaining
memory.

Connect the voice recorder to a PC anderase unneeded files.

Cannot PlayThe file’s format is not supported.

Select a file that can be played by thevoice recorder (☞ P.67).

File Error

An attempt was made to divide a filethat is not an MP3- or WAV-format filerecorded by the voice recorder.

Select another file.

No FileAlarm message list
Message

Meaning

Action required

An attempt was made to divide a file at a
position where dividing is not possible.

Noise Off

[Noise Cancel] function is enabled.

[Noise Cancel] function turns off
automatically (☞ P.43).

Scene Off

[Rec Scene] or [Play Scene] function isenabled.

[Rec Scene] or [Play Scene] function
turns off automatically (☞ P.20, P.29).

x 1.0 PlayThe playback speed function is set toother than [x1.0].

The playback speed function returns to[x1.0] automatically (☞ P.30).

Power Error

A bus power error occurred.

Cancel the USB connection (☞ P.62).

can't charge)(

An attempt was made to charge an AAA
alkaline battery or a rechargeable battery
other than one specified.

Use an Olympus nickel-metal hydride
rechargeable battery (BR404).

can't charge_2)(

A bus power error occurred.

Cancel the USB connection (☞ P.62).

6
Alarm message list

Pos Error

It may not be possible to divide someMP3 or PCM files with extremely shortrecording times (☞ P.52).

EN69

Troubleshooting
Problem

The display is blank.

Unable to operate
the voice recorder.

Possible cause

Solution

The battery is not inserted properly.

Check that the positive and negative
terminals of the battery are placed correctly(☞ P.7).

The remaining battery power is low.

Replace or charge the battery(☞ P.7, P.10).

The power is OFF.

Turn the power ON (☞ P.8).

The remaining battery power is low.

Replace or charge the battery(☞ P.7, P.10).

The power is OFF.

Turn the power ON (☞ P.8).

The voice recorder is in HOLD mode. Release HOLD mode (☞ P.32).

6

Unable to record.

Troubleshooting

Unable to record
with an external
microphone

Playback isinaudible.

Playback is inaudiblefrom the earphones.

There is no remaining memory.

Erase unneeded files (☞ P.35).

The maximum number ofrecordable files has been reached.

Erase unneeded files (☞ P.35).

The microphone connected to themicrophone/earphone jack is notdetected properly.
[Select Jack] is set to [Earphone].
The earphones are connected tothe earphone jack.

To output the playback through the built-in
speaker, disconnect the earphones.

[OFF] has been selected for[Speaker].

To output the playback through the built-in
speaker, select [ON] for [Speaker] (☞ P.47).

The volume is set to [00].

Adjust the volume (☞ P.25).

The earphones connected to themicrophone/earphone jack are notdetected properly.

Set [Select Jack] to [Earphone] (☞ P.48).

[Select Jack] is set to [Microphone].
The volume is set to [00].

EN
70

Set [Select Jack] to [Microphone](☞ P.48).

Adjust the volume (☞ P.25).

Troubleshooting
Problem
The recording is too
quiet.
Audio file sound is
distorted.
An audio file is notrecorded in stereo.

Noise during
playback.

Noise whenmonitoring arecording.

Unable to write
index marks/temp
marks.

Solution
Redo recording after setting therecording level to [High] (☞ P.40).

The voice recorder is far away fromthe recording target.
The recording level is adjusted
automatically. Excessively loudsound input may generate noise.

Move the voice recorder closer to therecording target.

[Rec Mode] is set to MP3 32k Monoor MP3 8k Mono format.

Set [Rec Mode] to [PCM] or [MP3 128k ST](☞ P.40).

Objects brushed against the voicerecorder while recording.

Avoid touching the voice recorder as muchas possible during recording.

The voice recorder was placed neara mobile phone or fluorescent lightduring recording or playback.

Redo the operation with the voice recorder ina different location.

The file is locked.

You must unlock the file before you can erase
it (☞ P.39).

The file is a read-only file.

Unlock the file, or undo the read-only setting
on a PC.

Feedback is being caused.

Record with the voice recorder farther awayfrom the recording target.

Connecting a speaker with a built-in amplifier
may cause feedback during recording.
It is recommended that you use earphones
before starting recording (☞ P.19).

6
Troubleshooting

Unable to erase
a file.

Possible cause[Low] has been selected for[Rec Level].

Adjust the recording setup such as bymoving the earphones and microphonefarther apart, or ensuring the microphone is
not facing the earphones.

The maximum number of marks (99)
Erase unneeded marks (☞ P.31).
has been reached.
The file is locked.

You must unlock the file before you can erase
it (☞ P.39).

The file is a read-only file.

Unlock the file, or undo the read-only setting
on a PC.

EN71

Troubleshooting
Problem[Alkaline] has been selected for[Battery].

The OK button was not pressed.

Press the OK button as directed in theconfirmation screen shown when connecting
the USB connector.

Button operations
are abnormal.

[Play Scene] function is enabled.

Set the [Play Scene] setting to [OFF](☞ P.29).

Playback speed isfast (or slow).

Playback speed function is set toanything other than [x1.0].

Set the playback speed function setting to[x1.0] (☞ P.30).

[File] has been selected for[Playback Range].

Set the [Playback Range] setting to [Folder](☞ P.43).

Files cannot
be playedconsecutively.

[ON] has been selected for [Repeat]. Set the [Repeat] setting to [OFF] (☞ P.44).

Troubleshooting[File] has been selected for[Playback Range].

72

Set the [Playback Range] setting to [Folder](☞ P.43).

Unable to skip to thenext or previous file [ON] has been selected for [Repeat]. Set the [Repeat] setting to [OFF] (☞ P.44).
during playback.
The [Skip Space] is set to other than Set the [Skip Space] setting to [File Skip][File Skip].
(☞ P.44).
When files are[ON] has been selected forswitched, playback[Intro Play].
starts automatically.

EN

Solution
To use the rechargeable battery provided,
select [Ni-MH] for [Battery]. Do not use
the rechargeable battery at higher/lower
temperatures than the recommended range(☞ P.8, P.13, P.49).

Unable to charge
the battery.

6

Possible cause

Set the [Intro Play] setting to [OFF](☞ P.47).

OtherRecorder caressExterior
Wipe gently with a soft cloth. If therecorder is very dirty, soak the cloth inmild soapy water and wring well. Wipe therecorder with the damp cloth and thenwipe it with a dry cloth.

ss
Display
Wipe gently with a soft cloth.
NOTE• Do not use benzene, alcohol or otherstrong solvents, or chemical cleaning
cloths.

BR404 nickel-metal hydride AAA
rechargeable battery
A high-efficiency, long-lasting
rechargeable battery.

Stereo microphone: ME51SW
The built-in microphone with large
diameter enables high-sensitivity stereo
recording.

Desktop zoom microphone(unidirectional): ME34
Since it is integrated with a microphone
stand, it is suitable for recording soundfrom a remote location such as aconference or lecture by installing it ona table.

Conference recording microphone that canbe connected up to 3 units in two rows.
Cascade connection can extend the total of
the two rows up to about 12m, so you canrecord a wide range of sounds.

2-channel microphone(omnidirectional): ME30W
An omnidirectional microphone with a
low-noise design suitable for recording
in large conference rooms. For recording,the left and right microphones can beplaced up to about 5 m apart.

Telephone pickup microphone: TP8
You can talk with the earphone typemicrophone in your ear. Your voice
and conversation during a call can berecorded clearly.

Connecting cord: KA333

6
Other

Accessories (optional)

Boundary microphone: ME33

A connection cord with resistors
with stereo mini plugs (φ3.5) at bothends. This is used when recording byconnecting the earphone output andmicrophone input. A monaural miniplug (φ3.5) or a conversion plug adapter(PA331/PA231) for monaural mini miniplug (φ2.5) is also included.

F-5AC USB-AC adapter
A USB-AC adapter that provides 5-volt
DC output. (AC100-240V 50/60Hz)

EN
73

Copyright and trademark information• The information in this document is subject to change in future without prior notice. Contact
Olympus Customer Support Center for the latest product names, model numbers and otherinformation.
• The display and illustrations of the voice recorder used in this manual may different fromthe actual product. While every precaution has been taken to ensure the accuracy of
the information in this manual, errors may occasionally arise. Any questions or concerns
regarding doubtful information, or possible errors or omissions should be directed to the
Olympus Customer Support Center.
• Olympus Corporation is the copyright holders of this manual. Copyright law prohibits
unauthorized reproduction of this manual, or unauthorized distribution of reproductions
thereof.
• Note that Olympus will assume no liability in the event of damages, lost earnings, or any
claims from third parties resulting from improper use of the product.

Trademarks and registered trademarks

6
Copyright and trademark information
EN
74• IBM and PC/AT are trademarks or registered trademarks of International Business Machines
Corporation.
• Microsoft, Windows and Windows Media are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
• Macintosh and iTunes are trademarks of Apple Inc.
• The product uses MP3 audio coding technology licensed from Fraunhofer IIS and Thomson.
All other brand or product names in this manual are the trademarks or registered trademarks of
their respective owners.

Safety precautions
Before using the voice recorder, readthis manual to ensure correct and safe
operation. After reading this manual, be
sure to keep it on hand for ready reference
whenever needed.

Important safety precautions• Important items about safety are indicatedby the following display and sentences.
Always follow these precautions toprevent harming yourself or others, orcausing damage to property.
• The meaning of each precaution type isgiven below.

Voice recorder safety precautions
f WARNING
ss
Do not use the voice recorder in
an atmosphere that might contain
flammable or explosive gases.
It may cause fire or explosion.

ss
Do not attempt to disassemble,
repair or modify the voice recorder.
It may cause electric shock or injury.

ss
Do not operate the voice recorderwhile operating a vehicle (such as abicycle, motorcycle or car).
It may cause traffic accidents.

f DANGER

f WARNING
A precaution about a situation thatis expected to potentially result indeath or serious injury if equipment ishandled incorrectly.

f CAUTION
A precaution about a situation thatis expected to potentially result ininjury, or is expected to result only
in property damage, if equipment ishandled incorrectly.

Pay attention when using the voicerecorder near an infant or child, taking
care not to leave it unattended. Infants
and children are unable to understandvoice recorder safety precautions, and are
at risk of accidents such as:−− Strangulation caused by accidental
entanglement of the earphone cordaround the neck.
−− Operation errors resulting in injury orelectric shock.

6
Safety precautions

A precaution about an imminent
danger that is expected to result indeath or serious injury if equipment ishanded incorrectly.

ss
Do not leave the voice recorder ina location accessible to an infant
or child.

ss
If you notice unusual odor, noise,
heat, burning odor or smoke
coming from the recorder:
1 Disconnect the battery and USB
connection immediately, taking
care not to burn or injure yourself.
Continued use may result in fire orburns (Do not touch the product withbare hands when it’s overheating).

EN
75

Safety precautions
2 Contact your place of purchase or an
Olympus service center.

ss
If the voice recorder is dropped
in water or, if water, metal or
combustible foreign matter gets
inside:1 Remove the battery immediately.
2 Contact your place of purchase oran Olympus service center for repair.
Continued use may result in fire orelectric shock.

6
Safety precautions

ss
Do not use the voice recorder or
use it only as directed in airplanes,
hospitals or other locations
where use of electronic devices isrestricted.
ss
Stop using the voice recorder if
you notice unusual odor, noise, orsmoke coming from it.
It may cause fire or burns. Remove thebattery immediately, taking care not
to burn yourself. Contact your place ofpurchase or an Olympus repair center orservice center. (Do not touch the battery
with bare hands when removing it.
Remove the battery outdoors, and awayfrom flammable objects.)

f CAUTION
ss
Do not raise the volume before
performing an operation.
Hearing damage or loss may result.

Batteries
f DANGEREN
76

ss
Do not place the battery near
ignition sources.

ss
Do not incinerate, heat or
disassemble the battery. Do notshort-circuit the battery’s positive
and negative electrodes.
It may cause fire, ruptures, combustion or
overheating.

ss
Do not solder connections directly
onto the battery. Do not deform,
modify or disassemble the battery.
ss
Do not connect the battery’s
positive and negative terminals.
It may cause overheating, electric shockor fire.

ss
When carrying or storing thebattery, always place it in the caseto protect its terminals. Do notcarry or store the battery together
with precious metal items such as
key rings.
It may cause overheating, electric shockor fire.

ss
Do not connect the battery directly
to a power outlet or car cigarette
lighter.
ss
Do not use or leave the battery
in a hot location such as in direct
sunlight, inside a vehicle on a hot
day, or near a room heater.
It may cause fire, burns or injuries fromleaking, overheating or ruptures.

f WARNING
ss
Do not touch or hold the battery
with wet hands.
It may cause electric shock or
malfunctions.

Safety precautions
ss
Do not use a battery with ascratched or damaged case.
It may cause ruptures or overheating.

ss
Do not insert the battery with its
positive/negative terminals in the
opposite direction.

ssBattery fluid in the eyes may cause
blindness. If battery fluid gets ineyes, do not rub the eyes. Instead,rinse them thoroughly with tap
water or other clean water rightaway. Go to doctor immediately.
ss
Do not attempt to recharge
alkaline, lithium or any other nonrechargeable batteries.
ss
Keep the battery out of the reachof infants and children.
The battery could be swallowed by an
infant or child. If swallowed, go to doctor
immediately.

ss
Do not submerge the battery infreshwater or saltwater, or allow its
terminals to become wet.

1 Remove the battery immediately,
taking care not to injure yourself.
2 Have the voice recorder repaired byyour place of purchase or an Olympus
service center. Continued use may
result in fire or burns.

ss
Discontinue use of the battery
if it develops a problem suchas leaking, discoloration ordeformation.
ss
Stop charging the rechargeable
battery if charging has not finishedafter the specified amount ofcharging time.
ss
Battery fluid on clothing or skin
may damage the skin, so rinse thebattery fluid off right away withtap water or other clean water.

f CAUTION
ss
Do not throw the battery around,or subject it to strong shocks.
ss
Always charge the rechargeable
battery before use when using
it for the first time or if it has notbeen used for a long time.
ss
Rechargeable batteries have alimited life. When the recorders
operating time becomes shorter
after recharging under the specified condition, please consider
that battery is expired and replace
it with a new one.

6
Safety precautions

It may cause leaking, overheating,combustion or ruptures.
• Do not use a battery with a torn casing
seal (insulating covering).
• Always remove the battery when thevoice recorder will not be used for anlong period.
• When disposing used batteries, insulate
their contacts with tape and discardthem as general waste in the mannerprescribed by the local authority.
• Remove the battery from the voicerecorder as soon as the battery
becomes unusable. It may cause
leakage.

ss
If you notice abnormal sound,heat, burning odor or smoke fromthe voice recorder during use:

EN
77

Safety precautions
Disposing the rechargeable
batteryss
Recycling batteries helps saving
resources. When disposing a usedbattery, always cover its terminals
and observe local laws andregulations.

Operating precautions

6
Safety precautions
EN
78• Do not leave the voice recorder in hot orhumid locations such as in direct sunlightinside a vehicle, or on a beach during
summer.
• Do not store the voice recorder in humid
or dusty locations.
• If the voice recorder becomes wet or
damp, wipe off the moisture right awaywith a dry cloth. Contact with salt water
should be particularly avoided.
• Do not place the voice recorder on top ofor near a TV, refrigerator or other electricalappliance.
• Prevent sand or mud from getting on thevoice recorder. It may cause product not tobe repairable.
• Do not subject the voice recorder tointense vibrations or shocks.
• Do not use the voice recorder in humid
locations.
• Placing a magnetic card (such as a bankcash card) near the speaker or earphones
may cause errors in the data stored on themagnetic card.
• Do not bring the voice recorder close topower lines, fluorescent lights, mobile
phones, etc. during recording or playback.
The sound may be noisy.
• Olympus will not be held liable forviolations of local regulations arising fromuse of this product outside the country or
region of purchase.

<Data loss precautions>• Recorded content in the internal memory
may be destroyed or lost due to reasons
such as operating errors, device failure or
repair.
• Also, when content is saved in the memory
for long period of time or is used repeatedly,
operations such as writing to, reading from,or erasing of contents may not be possible.
• Making a backup of important recorded
information and saving it on a PC’s hard diskor other recording media is recommended.
• Note that Olympus will assume no liability
for damages or lost earnings resulting fromrecorded data damage or loss, regardless ofthe nature or cause thereof.
<Recorded file precautions>• Note that Olympus will assume no
liability for recorded files being erased
or becoming unplayable due to voicerecorder or PC failure.
• Recording of copyrighted material ispermitted when the recording is for yourpersonal use only. Any other type of use
without the permission of the copyrightowner is prohibited by copyright law.
<Voice recorder disposal precautions>• Even when formatting (☞ P.56) orerasing (☞ P.35)are performed, only
the file management information of theinternal memory is updated and therecorded data is not completely erased.
When disposing the voice recorder, besure to destroy it, format and record
silence until the recording time runs
out, or perform a similar operation inorder to prevent the leakage of personal
information.

Specifications
44External dimensions

General items

17 mm × 130 mm × 17 mm(Not including largest projection)

44Recording formats
Linear PCM (pulse-code modulation)formatMP3 (MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3) format
MP3 (MPEG-2 Audio Layer3) format
MP3 (MPEG-2.5 Audio Layer3) format

44Sampling frequency
22.05 kHz0 to 42°C (32 to 107.6°F)

44When recording with built-instereo microphone
Linear PCM format

MP3 format
128 kbps

37.5 g (including battery)

44Operating temperature
Frequency response

Linear PCM format
22.05 kHz/16 bits

44Weight

44.1 kHz32 kbps mono

22.05 kHz

8 kbps mono

11.025 kHz

3 mW + 3 mW (at 16Ω load)

44Recording media*
Internal NAND FLASH memory: 8 GB
* Some memory capacity is used asa management area, so the actual
usable capacity will always be slightly
less than the displayed capacity.

44Speaker

Built-in ø 10 mm round dynamic speaker

44Microphone/Earphone jackMicrophone: 3.5 mm diameter,
impedance 2 Ω
Earphone: 3.5 mm diameter, impedance
8 Ω or more

40 Hz to 10 kHz

6

MP3 format
128 kbps

40 Hz to 17 kHz

32 kbps mono

40 Hz to 7 kHz

8 kbps mono

40 Hz to 3 kHz

44Recording with built-in stereo
microphone

Specifications

44Maximum headphone output

22.05 kHz/16 bits

50 Hz to 17 kHz(The upper limit of frequency
characteristics depends on eachrecording mode.)

44During playback

20 Hz to 20 kHz(The upper and lower limit of frequency
characteristics depends on eachrecording mode.)

44Maximum working output
90 mW (8 Ω speaker)

44Power source
Standard voltage: 1.5 V
Battery: One AAA dry cell battery (modelLR03), or one Olympus nickel-metal
hydride rechargeable battery

EN
79

Specifications
Battery life
The figures below are guideline values.

44When recording with built-in stereo microphone (using internal memory)
Recording mode

Battery life
Nickel-metal hydride
rechargeable battery
24 hours (approx.)
19 hours (approx.)

Alkaline dry cell battery

Linear PCM format

22.05 kHz/16 bits
128 kbps

27 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)

21 hours (approx.)

MP3 format

32 kbps mono

40 hours (approx.)

27 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)

8 kbps mono

50 hours (approx.)

34 hours (approx.)

44During audio file playback (all playback modes)
During speaker playback

6

Recording mode

Specifications

Battery life
Nickel-metal hydride
rechargeable battery
21 hours (approx.)
16 hours (approx.)

Alkaline dry cell battery

Linear PCM format

22.05 kHz/16 bits
128 kbps

26 hours (approx.)

MP3 format

32 kbps mono

26 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)

19 hours (approx.)

8 kbps mono

27 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)

20 hours (approx.)

18 hours (approx.)

During earphone playback
Recording mode

Battery life
Nickel-metal hydride
rechargeable battery
24 hours, 30 minutes (approx.) 17 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)
Alkaline dry cell battery

Linear PCM format

22.05 kHz/16 bits
128 kbps

34 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)

22 hours (approx.)

MP3 format

32 kbps mono

35 hours (approx.)

22 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)

8 kbps mono

36 hours (approx.)

23 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)

NOTE

EN
80

• The battery life figures shown here were determined using an Olympus test method(When [LED] is set to [OFF]). Actual battery life figures will vary greatly according to thebattery used and usage conditions (Changing the playback speed, or using the [Noise
Cancel], [Voice Balancer], [Rec Scene], [Play Scene] and [Rec Standby] functions may
affect the battery life).

Specifications
Recording time
The figures below are guideline values.

44Linear PCM format
Recording mode
Linear PCM format

Internal memory (8 GB)

22.05 kHz/16 bits

23 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)

44MP3 format
Recording mode

Internal memory (8 GB)
128 kbps

MP3 format

130 hours (approx.)

32 kbps mono

525 hours (approx.)

8 kbps mono

2100 hours (approx.)• Actually available recording times may be shorter than the figures shown here when
making short recordings repeatedly (Equipment displays of available/elapsed recording
times should be considered guideline values).

Specifications

NOTE

6

EN
81

Specifications
Maximum recording time per file
• The maximum file size is limited to about 4 GB in the MP3 format, and to about 2 GB in thelinear PCM (WAV) format.
• Regardless of the amount of remaining memory, the maximum recording time per file isrestricted to the following values.

44Linear PCM format
Recording mode
Linear PCM format

Recording time

22.05 kHz/16 bits

6 hours, 40 minutes (approx.)

44MP3 format
Recording mode

6

Recording time
128 kbps

MP3 format

74 hours, 30 minutes (approx.)

Specifications

32 kbps mono

298 hours (approx.)

8 kbps mono

1193 hours (approx.)

Number of music tracks (songs) that can be recorded
The figures below are guideline values.
8 GB

1900 tracks (approx.)(At 128 kbps, 4 minutes per track)

Note that voice recorder specifications and appearance are subject to change without priornotice for performance improvements or other upgrading.

EN82

3500 Corporate Parkway, P.O. Box 610, Center Valley, PA 18034-0610, U.S.A.
Tel. 484-896-5000
Technical Support (USA):
24/7 online automated help:
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Phone customer support:
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2020

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