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Average Price: $194

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Description

Unlock the power of professional-grade audio recording with the Sony PCM-D50 portable recorder. Designed for musicians, sound designers, and field recordists who demand nothing but the best, this compact device delivers pristine 24-bit/96kHz stereo recordings wherever your creativity takes you. Equipped with dual built-in electret condenser microphones, it offers the flexibility of both XY and wide-stereo recording options, ensuring you capture every nuance of your performance or environment.

The PCM-D50's rugged design houses four separate circuit boards dedicated to analog audio, digital audio, digital recording, and power supply circuits—minimizing noise and maximizing sound quality. Its USB 2.0 compatibility allows for seamless transfer of WAV files to your computer, making post-production a breeze. This recorder also includes a unique dual digital limiter, a highpass filter with selectable frequencies, and a 5-second pre-record buffer, ensuring you never miss a moment.

Beyond recording, the PCM-D50 supports MP3 playback and digital pitch control, perfect for musicians who need to fine-tune their tracks on the go. Whether you're capturing the subtle dynamics of a live performance or the ambient sounds of nature, the Sony PCM-D50 is your reliable partner in sound.

Key Features:

  • 24-bit/96kHz stereo recording quality
  • Dual electret condenser microphones with XY and wide-stereo positions
  • Four separate circuit boards to minimize noise
  • USB 2.0 for easy file transfer
  • Dual digital limiter and selectable highpass filter
  • MP3 playback and digital pitch control
  • 5-second pre-record buffer and A-B repeat playback function

Product specs

Brand Sony
Model PCM D-50
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Portable Recorders

FAQs

What are the recording capabilities of the Sony PCM-D50?

The Sony PCM-D50 can record up to 96kHz/24-bit audio, providing high-resolution sound quality. It features two stereo microphones that can be positioned in X-Y or Wide configurations for versatile recording options.

How much internal storage does the Sony PCM-D50 have?

The Sony PCM-D50 comes with 4GB of internal flash memory, which can be expanded using a Memory Stick Pro-HG Duo™ for additional storage capacity.

What type of batteries does the Sony PCM-D50 require?

The Sony PCM-D50 operates on four AA alkaline batteries, offering around 14 hours of recording time at 44.1kHz 16-bit settings.

Is the Sony PCM-D50 suitable for field recording?

Yes, the Sony PCM-D50 is designed for field recording with its portable size, durable build, and high-quality stereo microphones, making it ideal for capturing sound in various environments.

Can I use external microphones with the Sony PCM-D50?

Yes, the Sony PCM-D50 includes a 3.5mm stereo mic input for connecting external microphones, allowing you to expand your recording options further.

Liliputing

Liliputing

Sony PCM-D50 video review

Video thumbnail for Sony PCM-D50 video review by Liliputing

Sony PCM-D50 video review

Liliputing

Liliputing

Video thumbnail for Sony PCM-D50 Backs Up Heftier Price With Heftier Features by gearwire

Sony PCM-D50 Backs Up Heftier Price With Heftier Features

gearwire

gearwire

Video thumbnail for Sony PCM D50 vs Zoom H4n vs Tascam DR-40 by ShurSoma

Sony PCM D50 vs Zoom H4n vs Tascam DR-40

ShurSoma

ShurSoma

Video thumbnail for Another Sony PCM D50 linear recorder review? Why not, it's still alive? recordings and tests. by Viorel Caia

Another Sony PCM D50 linear recorder review? Why not, it's still alive? recordings and tests.

Viorel Caia

Viorel Caia

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sony PCM-D50.

Features and functionality

  • The Sony PCM-D50 is noted for its robust build, being weighty and bulky compared to the PCM M10, but it remains a preferred option for many users.

    Source
  • The PCM-D50 features swiveling microphones that allow for configurable mic patterns, enhancing its adaptability in various recording environments.

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  • The D50 operates swiftly, being ready to record almost immediately upon powering on, unlike the R-07, which has a delay before recording can commence.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It has been effectively used for nature recording, hydrophone recording, and capturing musical instruments and conversations, showcasing its versatility.

    Source
  • Utilizing a phantom power adapter, the D50 can connect condenser microphones via a line input, expanding its recording capabilities for professional setups.

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Software and compatibility

  • Users employ a Micro SD to Memory Stick MS Pro Duo Adapter to utilize micro SD cards with the PCM-D50, enhancing its storage flexibility.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The onboard mics of the PCM-D50 are considered slightly inferior to the D100, yet it remains a solid choice, especially as a backup recorder.

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  • The PCM-D50 outperforms the Roland R-07 in recording quality, preamp noise, stereo imaging, and battery life, despite the R-07's superior portability.

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  • Despite the age of the PCM-D50, owners assert its superior mic and preamp quality over models like the Tascam Dr 100 Mk III and Zoom H5.

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Value and pricing

  • Deals on the PCM-D50 can be found on platforms like eBay, with users reporting purchases as low as $250, highlighting its value for money.

    Source
  • At $150, the PCM-D50 is considered an exceptional deal, with some users regretting not securing a purchase immediately due to high demand.

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User experience

  • Some owners report longevity issues, with older units experiencing microphone connectivity problems, especially when frequently switching between XY and AB mic configurations.

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  • Owners highlight the D50's minimal need for post-editing, attributing it to the recorder's solid audio capture capabilities.

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  • Owners report the PCM-D50 achieving over 30 hours of recording on four AA batteries, highlighting its impressive battery efficiency compared to newer models.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • Users recommend connecting a phantom power adapter with XLR inputs to enhance the D50's recording versatility, particularly for ORTF (near-coincident pair) recordings.

    Source

Build quality

  • The PCM-D50 has been reported to withstand extreme conditions like being submerged in water and hit with rocks without losing functionality, emphasizing its durability.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Loscil uses Sony PCM-D50

Loscil

Music Producer

...
Verified via Headphone Commute

I always try to keep my Sony PCM D-50 recorder handy. It’s been a great little portable recorder to have for “point and shoot” style location recording.

See how Eskmo uses Sony PCM-D50

Eskmo

Music Producer

...
Verified via BandCamp

Eskmo does a lot of field recording to make organic sounds. This is what he uses.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Sony PCM-D50, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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