DIGITAL VOICE RECORDER WS-833 WS-832 WS-831 Getting started 1 Recording 2 Playback 3 FM radio 4 Menu 5 Use with a PC 6 Other information 7 USER MANUAL Thank you for purchasing an Olympus digital voice recorder. Please read these instructions for information about using the product correctly 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.
Table of contents Names of parts............................................................................ 4 Recorder................................................................................................4 Display ..................................................................................................5 1 Getting started Setup.......................................................................................... 8 Inserting the battery.................................................
Table of contents Preventing accidental file erasure [File Lock]......................................61 Sorting files [Sort by]..........................................................................61 Moving/copying files [Move/Copy].....................................................62 Dividing files [File Divide] ...................................................................62 Displaying file or folder information [Property] .................................62 Recording menu [Rec Menu] .........
Names of parts Recorder 1 Names of parts 8 9 0 ! ) ( * & @ # $ % ^ 2 3 - 4 5 = 6 q 7 EN 4 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 ! @ # Built-in stereo microphone (L) Built-in stereo microphone (R) LED indicator light (LED) MENU/SCENE button F2 button Built-in speaker Strap hole EAR (earphone) jack MIC (microphone) jack Display F1 button + button REC (record) ( s) button w $ % ^ & * ( ) = q w 9 button – button LIST button ERASE button `OK button 0 button STOP ( 4) button Battery/card cover POWER/HOLD switch USB
Names of parts Display 4 [Recorder] mode 2 File list display 3 1 2 6 3 9 5 5 1 Recording media indicator [l]: Internal memory [m]: microSD card 2 3 4 5 6 1 7 8 6 4 File display 3 Current folder name Battery indicator Folder name Function button guide display File name [ ]: Playback indicator [ ]: Voice Detect* 7 Folder indicator, recording format indicator and file lock indicator 8 Voice recorder status indicator [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ [ ]: Recording indicator ]: Recording pause indicator ]: St
Names of parts Display 4 [Music] mode Names of parts List display 1 1 2 List display 2 3 1 2 File display 3 1 6 7 4 8 6 5 9 0 5 5 When folder contains files and folders [l]: Internal memory [m]: microSD card 2 3 4 5 6 ! @ # $ When folder contains only files 1 Recording media indicator Current folder name Battery indicator Folder name or file name Function button guide display File name [ ] Playback indicator 7 Folder indicator, speaker muting indicator ( ) and file lock ( ) 8 Voice reco
Names of parts Display WS-833 model only TIP Radio reception display 1 2 3 4 5 6 • Pressing and holding the STOP ( 4) button while the voice recorder is in stop mode displays the [Time & date] and [Remain] (amount of possible recording time remaining) settings. If the current date/time is set incorrectly, see “Setting the date/time [Time & Date]” (☞P.78).
Getting started Setup 1 After unpacking the voice recorder, follow the steps below to have it ready for use. Setup Getting started 1 Insert the battery 3 Getting started 2 Turn the power ON 3 Getting started 3 3 Getting started 4 Select 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.
Setup Inserting the battery 1 1 While the voice recorder is turned off, slide the POWER/HOLD switch in the direction of the arrow. Slide open the battery/card cover while lightly pressing down on it. 1 Setup Before using the voice recorder, insert the battery in the battery compartment of the voice recorder. Turn the power ON POWER/HOLD switch 2 Insert a AAA battery, making sure its positive and negative terminals are placed correctly. Slide the battery/card cover completely closed.
Setup Setting the inserted battery 1 1 Press the +/– button to select the type of battery you inserted. Setting the date/time Setup 1 Press the 9 or 0 button to select the item to set. 2 Press the +/– button to change the number. Battery type [Ni-MH] ( ) Select if you inserted an Olympus nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery (model BR404). ) [Alkaline] ( Select if you inserted an alkaline battery. 2 Press the `OK button to finalize the setting.
Charging the battery Charging the battery by connecting to a PC’s USB connector 3 After making sure the voice recorder is stopped, connect the USB connector to a USB port on a PC. 4 Press the `OK button to start charging the battery. NOTE • Before connecting the USB connector, release HOLD mode (☞ P.19). 1 Start the PC. 2 Slide the USB connector slide lever in the direction of the arrow. • The USB connector extends out. The USB connector cover is stored inside the voice recorder.
Charging the battery 5 Charging has finished when the battery indicator changes to [ ]. 1 Charging the battery Charging time: About 3 hours* * Approximate time needed to fully charge a completely flat battery at room temperature. Battery charging time will depend on the amount of remaining power and the state of the battery. NOTE • Never attempt to charge an alkaline battery, lithium battery or other primary cell battery. Fluid leakage or overheating may cause the recorder to malfunction.
Charging the battery Charging the battery by connecting to an AC adapter with a USB connection (model A514; optional) 2 Connect the AC adapter to an AC power outlet. NOTE • Before connecting the AC adapter, select [AC Adapter] for the USB connection setting (☞ P.89). • Before connecting the AC adapter, release HOLD mode (☞ P.19). 1 Connect the voice recorder to the USB connector on the AC adapter.
Charging the battery 4 1 Charging is finished when [Battery full] appears. When charged with the power turned off Charging the battery Displayed when the battery is fully charged When charged with the power turned on NOTE • Use only the Olympus USB connecting AC adapter model provided (A514). EN 14 NOTE • The power of the PC must be ON to charge the battery using the USB connector. You cannot charge the battery when the power of the PC is OFF, or the PC is in standby, sleep or auto power OFF mode.
Batteries Rechargeable batteries Read the information below carefully when using a nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery (model BR404). Rechargeable batteries discharge naturally when not in use. Be sure to charge the battery before use. 4 Operating temperature Rechargeable batteries are chemical-based products. Their performance can vary even when used within the recommended operating temperature range. This variation is normal.
Batteries Battery precautions 1 Batteries EN 16 • The voice recorder does not support manganese batteries. • Always turn power off before replacing the battery. Files may be damaged if the battery is removed while the voice recorder is recording or performing an operation such as erasing a file. • You may need to reset the date/time if the battery is removed from the voice recorder for over one minute, or if the battery is quickly removed and replaced. See “Setting the date/time [Time & Date]” (☞ P.
Inserting/removing a microSD card The voice recorder has its own internal memory, and also supports standard microSD cards (microSD, microSDHC) sold separately. 1 Inserting a microSD card • The recording media selection screen appears after a microSD card has been inserted. While the voice recorder is in stop mode, open the battery/ card cover. 4 To record onto the microSD card, press the +/– button and select [Yes]. 5 Press the `OK button to finalize the setting.
Inserting/removing a microSD card Removing a microSD card 1 1 Inserting/removing a microSD card 2 While the voice recorder is in stop mode, open the battery/ card cover. Release the microSD card by pressing it inward, then letting it slowly return. • The microSD card moves outward and stops. Pull the microSD card out with your fingertips. • [Internal memory selected] is displayed after removing a microSD card if [Memory Select] was set to [microSD card]. EN 18 3 Close the battery/card cover.
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. It is also useful for preventing the voice recorder being accidentally stopped during recording. 1 Slide the POWER/HOLD switch to the [HOLD] position.
Turning the power OFF Turning the power OFF 1 Existing data, mode settings and the clock setting are saved when the power is turned OFF. Turning the power OFF 1 Slide the POWER/HOLD switch in the direction of the arrow for at least half a second. • The playback stop position at power OFF is stored in memory. TIP • Turning the power OFF whenever the voice recorder is not in use minimizes battery consumption.
[Home] screen operations Selecting the mode 1 Press the F1 (HOME) button to display the [Home] screen. 3 Press the `OK button. 1 [Home] screen operations In addition to its recording function, the voice recorder also provides music player and FM radio* functions. Choose the application you want by selecting one of the voice recorder’s modes. * WS-833 model only For WS-833 model For WS-832 and WS-831 models 2 Press the +/–, 9 or 0, button to select the desired mode.
[Home] screen operations When [Recorder] is selected 1 [Home] screen operations The voice recorder enters [Recorder] mode. Audio can be recorded with the built-in microphone. Files recorded with the microphone or from the FM radio* can also be played back (☞ P.26, P.34). When [Music] is selected The voice recorder enters [Music] mode. In this mode you can play music files transferred to the voice recorder (☞ P.34). When [Calendar Search] is selected The voice recorder enters [Calendar Search] mode.
Folders In addition to its own internal memory, the voice recorder can also use microSD cards as a data recording media. Sound files, music files and content files stored on either media are saved in folders arranged in a tree structure. You can specify any playback sequence for the music files in the [Recorder] and [Music] folder (☞ P.61). Sound files recorded by the voice recorder are saved in the folders labeled [Folder A] to [Folder E] in the [Recorder] folder.
Selecting folders and files You can select a different folder while the voice recorder is in stopped or playing a file. See “Folders” (☞ P.23) for a description of the voice recorder’s hierarchical folder structure.
Selecting folders and files +/– button Used to select a folder or file. 1 Selecting folders and files [Home] screen Used to select the voice recorder mode (☞ P.21). List display Displays the folders and files recorded in the voice recorder. Pressing the F2 (FOLDER) button changes the display to the list display of the next folder. File display Displays the information of the selected file.
Recording Recording 2 The voice recorder has five folders ([&] to [*]) in which recorded files can be saved. These folders provide a handy way to sort recordings into separate categories (such as business and leisure). Recording Basic recording procedure 1 2 Press the +/–, 0 or 9 button in the [Home] screen and select [Recorder], then press the `OK button (☞ P.21). 4 a b c d e Select the folder to save the recording in (☞ P.24). • Each new voice recording file is saved in the selected folder.
Recording NOTE Sound files recorded with the voice recorder are automatically given a file name in the format below. 131001_0001.WMA 2 3 1 Date recorded Indicates the year, month and day the recording was made. 2 File number Appended file numbers are consecutive regardless of whether the recording media has been switched. 3 Extension A file extension indicating the recording format the file was recorded in by the voice recorder. • Linear PCM format: “.WAV”* • MP3 format: “.MP3” • WMA format: “.
Recording Recording linear PCM format files of over 2 GB Pausing/resuming recording 1 2 WS-833 and WS-832 models only Recording 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 200 files which exceed 2GB recording stops. Press the REC ( s) button during recording.
Recording Monitoring while recording You can monitor the recording as you are making it by listening on the earphone plugged into the voice recorder’s EAR jack. Use the +/– button to adjust the recording monitor volume. Connect the earphones to the voice recorder’s EAR jack. To EAR jack • Changing the volume will not affect the recording level. NOTE • To avoid unpleasantly loud sound, set the volume to [00] before plugging in the earphone.
Recording with an external microphone Recording with an external microphone 2 You can record audio input using an external microphone or other device connected to the voice recorder’s microphone jack. Do not plug or unplug devices into voice recorder jacks while recording. 1 Recording with an external microphone Connect an external microphone to the voice recorder’s MIC jack. To MIC jack 2 Start recording. • See “Recording” (☞ P.26) for descriptions of recording operations.
Recording from another connected device Recording audio from this recorder with another device Audio can be recorded when you have connected the audio output terminal (earphone jack) of another device and the MIC jack of the recorder using the connecting cord KA333 (optional) for dubbing. Audio from this recorder can be recorded to another device by connecting the audio input terminal (microphone jack) of the other device and the EAR jack of this recorder using the connecting cord KA333 (optional).
Changing the recording scene [Rec Scene] Changing the recording scene 2 The voice recorder has preregistered templates of optimum settings tailored to various recording applications such as lectures and dictation. When selecting one of these templates you can enter several settings recommended for your recording application all in a single operation. Changing the recording scene [Rec Scene] 1 While the voice recorder is in stop mode, press and hold the MENU/ SCENE button. 2 Press the `OK button.
Changing the recording scene [Rec Scene] Preregistered [Rec Scene] settings [Lecture] [Dictation] [High] [Rec Level] [Rec Mode] [MP3 128 kbps] [Rec Mode] [Low] [MP3 128 kbps] [Zoom Mic]* [+6] [Zoom Mic]* [Off] [Low Cut Filter] [On] [Low Cut Filter] [On] [VCVA] [Off] [VCVA] [Off] [V-Sync. Rec] [Off] [V-Sync.
Playback Playback In addition to files recorded by the voice recorder, you can also play files in WAV*, MP3 and WMA format transferred from a PC. * WS-833 and WS-832 models only 3 Basic playback procedure Playback 1 TIP • Files are saved in the locations below.
Playback Playback through the earphones Playback settings You can select various file playback methods tailored to different applications and tastes. Only plays voice portions of a recorded audio file. [Shadowing] (☞ P.69) Plays segments of files, alternating repeatedly between playback and silence. [Noise Cancel]*3 (☞ P.70) A setting that makes recorded voices more discernable when muffled by projector noise or similar sounds. [Voice Balancer]*1 *3 (☞ P.
Playback Fast-forwarding Rewinding 3 Playback Fast-forwarding while the voice recorder is in stop mode 1 With the voice recorder stopped, press and hold the 9 button. Rewinding while the voice recorder is in stop mode 1 • [ß] appears in the display. • Fast-forwarding stops when you release the 9 button. Press the `OK button to start playback from the current position. • [™] appears in the display. • Rewinding stops when you release the 0 button.
Playback Skipping to the beginning of a file 1 Press the 9 button while the voice recorder is in stop mode, or during playback. • If an index mark or temp mark is reached when skipping to the beginning of a file during playback, playback starts from the position of the mark. When skipping to the beginning of a file while the voice recorder is in stop mode, the mark is ignored (☞ P.43).
Playback Music files 3 If a music file transferred to the voice recorder is unplayable, check that its sampling rate, bit count and bit rate values are within the supported ranges. The sampling rate, bit count and bit rate combinations supported for music file playback by the voice recorder are shown below. Playback File format Sampling rate Bit count/ bit rate WAV format* 44.1 kHz 16 bits MP3 format MPEG 1 Layer 3: 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz MPEG 2 Layer 3: 16 kHz, 22.
Playback 3 Press the `OK button. Playback speed/ tone indicator TIP 3 Playback • When speech is still difficult to discern after changing the playback speed, changing the tone may help. • When the speed/tone changing function and [Play Scene] function have both been selected, the [Play Scene] setting takes precedence. The [Play Scene] settings cannot be changed (☞ P.74).
Playback ABC repeat playback 3 Playback EN 40 The voice recorder has a function that lets you repeat the playback of a portion (segment) of the file being played. In addition to the A-B repeat function available from previous models, the segment to repeat can be changed during repeat playback. There is also a shadowing playback function handy for language learning that can be used during ABC repeat playback.
Playback ABC repeat playback Specifying new starting/ending points TIP 3 4 Press the F1 (CANCEL A) button during ABC repeat playback. 3 Playback • You can change the playback speed (☞ P.38), and fast-forward/ rewind (☞ P.36) when the [B] indicator is blinking. • If playback reaches the end of the file when the [B] indicator is blinking, the end of the file is treated as the segment end position, and repeat playback starts.
Playback ABC repeat playback 5 Press the F1 (SET C) button at the desired end position for ABC repeat playback. Canceling ABC repeat playback 1 Press the F2 (CNCL ABC) button. 3 Playback • Segment B-C is set, and ABC repeat playback starts. • The shadowing playback function is enabled. TIP • You can repeat Steps 4 and 5 as needed to change the repeat segment as desired. 6 Press the STOP ( 4) button. • Playback stops. The playback segment specified for this function is retained.
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 of a file. Index marks can only be written in files created with Olympus voice recorders. For files created with other devices, you can temporarily store desired positions in the memory using temp marks.
Calendar Search function Using the Calendar Search function to search for a file You can search for voice files by specifying a recording date. If you have forgotten in which folder a file has been saved, this feature lets you access it quickly by entering its recording date. 3 Press the F1 (HOME) button to display the [Home] screen. 2 Press the +/–, 9 or 0 button to select [Calendar Search]. Calendar Search function 1 • Dates on which files were saved are underlined.
Selecting preset playback settings template [Play Scene] Selecting a preset playback settings template This voice recorder has 2 preregistered template [Transcription] and [Language study], with optimum settings tailored to such playback scenes. Selecting one of these templates lets you enter several settings recommended for your recording application all in a single operation. See “Setting a preset playback settings template” for how to set playback settings packages (☞ P.74).
Erasing files/folders This section describes how to erase a single unneeded file from a folder, erase all the files in the current folder at once, or erase a selected folder. Erasing files 3 Select the file you want to erase (☞ P.24). 2 When the file display screen appears, press the ERASE button while the voice recorder is in stop mode. Erasing files/folders 1 4 Press the `OK button. 5 Press the + button to select [Start]. 6 Press the `OK button.
Erasing files/folders Erasing a folder 1 Select the folder you want to erase (☞ P.24). 2 In the folder display screen, press the ERASE button while the voice recorder is in stop mode. 3 4 Press the + button to select [Start]. Press the `OK button. • [Erasing!] appears in the display, and the erasing process starts. [Erased] appears when the process has finished. • Files cannot be restored after being erased, so please check carefully before erasing a file.
FM radio (WS-833 model only) Before using the FM radio function Radio signal reception quality varies substantially depending on where you are using the radio. Poor reception can often be improved by adjusting the antenna position or orientation, or moving to a more accessible location for the signal such as a near window. 4 Before using the FM radio function NOTE NOTE • The supplied earphones function as an FM antenna.
Presetting radio stations automatically Presetting a local radio station [By scanning] Follow the steps below to preset the frequency of an FM radio station you can receive in your area. Connect the earphones to the voice recorder’s EAR jack. 2 Press the F1 (HOME) button to display the [Home] screen. 3 Press the +/–, 9 or 0 button to select [FM Radio]. 4 Press the `OK button. 5 Press the MENU/SCENE button. 6 Press the `OK button to move the cursor to the desired setting item.
Presetting radio stations automatically Presetting a local radio station [By scanning] 11 Press the +/– button to select [Start]. 4 Presetting radio stations automatically EN 50 12 Press the `OK button. • When [Set by scanning completed] appears, the operation is finished. TIP • Preset numbers are sorted automatically by frequency. • Up to 30 radio stations can be preset. The message [Preset Full] appears if you attempt to preset more than 30 stations.
Listening to FM radio Listening to FM radio Follow the steps below to listen to stereo FM radio on the voice recorder. 1 Set FM radio mode by performing Steps 1 to 4 of the procedure given in “Presetting radio stations automatically” (☞ P.49). 2 Press the 9 or 0 button to select a radio station. 3 Press the +/– button to adjust the volume to the desired level.
Listening to FM radio Selecting the reception mode Different reception modes can be selected to match different reception conditions. If the radio station you want to listen to has a signal too weak to be detected by the automatic preset process, you can select manual reception to adjust the radio frequency manually. 1 4 Listening to FM radio 2 Set FM radio mode by performing Steps 1 to 4 of the procedure given in “Presetting radio stations automatically” (☞ P.49).
Adding preset radio stations Adding a radio station received manually as a preset station [Set manually] Follow the steps below to add a radio station received in frequency mode as a preset radio station. Set FM radio mode by performing Steps 1 to 4 of the procedure given in “Presetting radio stations automatically” (☞ P.49). 2 Press the F2 button to set frequency mode. 3 Press the 9 or 0 button to select the radio station you want to preset. 4 Press the MENU/SCENE button.
Adding preset radio stations Adding a radio station received manually as a preset station [Set manually] 10 Press the +/– button to select [Save preset]. 4 Adding preset radio stations EN 54 11 Press the `OK button. • When the message [Preset (number) saved] appears, the procedure is finished. TIP • Up to 30 radio stations can be preset. The message [Preset Full] appears if you attempt to preset more than 30 stations. • Preset numbers are sorted automatically by frequency.
Deleting preset radio stations Deleting an unneeded preset radio station Set FM radio mode by performing Steps 1 to 4 of the procedure given in “Presetting radio stations automatically” (☞ P.49). 2 Press the F2 button to set preset mode. 3 Press the 9 or 0 button to select the preset number of the radio station you want to delete. 4 Press the ERASE button. 5 Press the +/– button to select [Erase preset]. 6 Press the `OK button.
Recording FM radio Recording FM radio Even when FM radio reception is clear, noise may enter after starting to record in certain reception environments. To avoid such a problem, perform a test recording beforehand. Try to record in a location with good radio reception. NOTE 4 3 • Recording is disabled when [Output] in the [FM Menu] menu is set to [Speaker]. Set this item to [Earphone] before starting recording (☞ P.81). Press the REC ( s) button to start recording.
Recording FM radio Recording FM radio TIP • Files recorded from FM radio have “FM” appended to the beginning of the file name assigned at the time of recording (☞ P.27). FM130715_0007.MP3 Date: 130715 (July 15, 2013) 4 NOTE Recording FM radio • When recording FM radio, always connect the earphones to the EAR jack.
Menu Setting menu items Basic operation Menu items are arranged by tabs, letting you quickly set desired items by selecting a tab and then moving to the desired item within the tab. Follow the steps below to set a menu item. 1 During recording/playback or while the voice recorder is in stop mode, press the MENU/SCENE button. 3 Press the `OK button to move the cursor to the desired setting item. 5 Setting menu items • You can also use the 9 button to perform this operation.
Setting menu items Basic operation 5 Press the `OK button. • The setting of the selected item is displayed. • You can also use the 9 button to perform this operation. Press the +/– button to change the setting. Press the STOP ( 4) button to exit the menu screen. • When the menu screen is displayed during recording or playback, press the MENU/SCENE button to return to the previous screen without ending recording/playback. NOTE 7 Press the `OK button to finalize the setting.
Setting menu items Basic operation 4 Menu items that can be set during recording • Rec Level • Zoom Mic*1 • Low Cut Filter • VCVA • Backlight • LED 5 4 Menu items that can be set during Playback Setting menu items • Property • Noise Cancel*2 • Voice Balancer*2*3 • Voice Filter*2*4 • Play Mode • Equalizer*5 • Skip Space • Backlight • LED 4 Menu items that can be set while listening to the radio (WS-833 model only) • Rec Mode*6 • Set stations*6 • Scan Level*6 • Backlight • LED • Output*6 EN 60 *1 WS-83
File menu [File Menu] Extracting the speaking portions of files of spoken-word content [Voice Detect] The [Voice Detect] function extracts the speaking portions of a file of spoken-word content recorded by the voice recorder. See “Extracting speaking portions of files of spoken-word content [Voice Detect]” (☞ P.82) for more information. Sorting files [Sort by] You can change the playback order of the files in a folder.
File menu [File Menu] Moving/copying files [Move/Copy] Files saved in the internal memory or on a microSD card can be moved or copied within memory. See “Moving/copying files [Move/Copy]” (☞ P.84) for the procedure. WS-833 and WS-832 models only Displaying file or folder information [Property] You can display the information of a file or folder from a menu screen. File information 1 • Information is displayed for the items [Name], [Date], [Size], [Bit Rate]*1, [Artist]*2 and [Album]*2.
Recording menu [Rec Menu] Selecting the recording sensitivity [Rec Level] You can change the recording level (sensitivity) as needed for your recording application. WS-833 model only 1 Adjust the recording level by pressing the 9 or 0 button during recording or when recording is paused. 5 • Increasing the [Rec Level] number increases the recording level and extends the level meter indicator position.
Recording menu [Rec Menu] Setting the recording mode [Rec Mode] You can prioritize sound quality or recording time. Select the recording mode that best matches your recording application. 5 Recording menu [Rec Menu] [PCM 44.
Recording menu [Rec Menu] Selecting microphone directivity [Zoom Mic] Reducing noise during recording [Low Cut Filter] The voice recorder’s low cut filter function lets you make recordings that reduce humming sounds from air-conditioners or low-frequency sounds from equipment such as projectors. [On]: Turns the low cut filter ON. [Off]: Turns the low cut filter OFF.
Recording menu [Rec Menu] TIP Adjusting the voice activation level for voice-activated recording 1 • Recording pauses automatically about 1 second after the input sound becomes quieter than the set activation sensitivity. The blinking message [Standby] appears in the display. The LED indicator light becomes lit when recording is activated and flashes when recording is paused. 5 Recording menu [Rec Menu] EN 66 Press the REC ( s) button to start recording.
Recording menu [Rec Menu] Voice sync recording function [V-Sync. Rec] The voice sync recording function automatically starts recording when a sound louder than a preset voice sync recording level (detection level) is detected, and automatically stops recording when the sound volume level decreases. When copying music from another device connected to the voice recorder, use the voice sync recording function to detect the silent intervals between music tracks and save each track as a separate file.
Recording menu [Rec Menu] 3 Press the REC ( s) button again. • The blinking message [Standby] appears in the display, and the LED indicator light flashes. • Recording starts automatically if the input is louder than the voice sync level. TIP 5 Recording menu [Rec Menu] EN 68 • The voice recorder automatically ends recording and returns to recording standby mode when the input sound has been below the voice sync level for at least the set detection time.
Playback menu [Play Menu] Skipping non-voice portions during playback [Voice Playback] The [Voice Playback] function lets you only play the speaking portions of a recorded file of spoken-word content. WS-833 and WS-832 models only NOTE [On]: Automatically skips the non-voice portions of the file and plays only the speaking portions. [Off]: The voice playback function is disabled. NOTE • The [Voice Playback] function is only enabled in [Recorder] mode.
Playback menu [Play Menu] Reducing noise during playback [Noise Cancel] Use the [Noise Cancel] function to reduce noise when a recorded voice is difficult to discern. [High][Low]: Reduces surrounding noise, producing higher sound-quality playback. [Off]: The noise cancel function is disabled. 5 Adjusting low volume portions during playback [Voice Balancer] The [Voice Balancer] function adjusts lowvolume portions of recorded audio files to make them louder.
Playback menu [Play Menu] Emphasizing voice more clearly [Voice Filter] During normal playback or fast/slow playback, the voice filter function cuts low- and high-frequency range tone and emphasizes voices, making them more clearly audible. Selecting playback modes [Play Mode] Several playback modes are available for different listening styles. 1 When [Recorder] was selected WS-831 model only 2 Press the +/– button to select [File] or [Folder].
Playback menu [Play Menu] 3 5 Playback menu [Play Menu] EN 72 Press the +/– button to select a setting. When [Playback range] was selected: [File], [Folder], [All]: Specify the range of files for playback. When [Repeat] or [Random] was selected: [On]: The files in the specified playback range are played repeatedly or at random. [Off]: Cancels repeat playback and random playback.
Playback menu [Play Menu] Changing music sound quality [Equalizer] The voice recorder’s equalizer settings can be changed to change music sound quality as desired. When [User] was selected 1 Press the 9 button. 2 Press the 9 or 0 button to select a frequency band. Setting a skip space [Skip Space] The [Skip Space] function lets you skip a preset amount forward (forward skip) or backward (reverse skip) in a file during playback.
Playback menu [Play Menu] NOTE • Forward/reverse skip operations over a skip space that contains an index mark/ temp mark or the starting position of a file will stop at that mark or at the start position. Forward/reverse skip playback 5 Playback menu [Play Menu] 1 Press the `OK button to start playback. 2 Press the 9 or 0 button during playback. • Playback starts after skipping forward or backward by the set amount.
LCD/Sound menu [LCD/Sound Menu] Setting the backlight [Backlight] The display backlights are switched on for a preset amount of time when a button operation is performed. [5 sec.], [10 sec.], [30 sec.], [1 min.]: Set the amount of time that the backlight stays lit. [Off]: Disables the backlight. Setting the LED indicator light [LED] You can set the LED indicator light to not become lit. [On]: LED indicator light is switched on. [Off]: LED indicator light stays off.
LCD/Sound menu [LCD/Sound Menu] Changing the display language [Language] You can select the language used in the voice recorder’s displays. • [Čeština] , [Dansk], [Deutsch], [English], [Español], [Français], [Italiano], [Nederlands], [Polski], [Русский], [Svenska], [簡体中⽂], [繁 體中⽂]. 5 LCD/Sound menu [LCD/Sound Menu] EN 76 TIP • The language selections vary depending on where the voice recorder was purchased.
Device menu [Device Menu] Selecting the recording media [Memory Select] When there is a microSD card in the voice recorder, you can select whether to record on the internal memory or on the microSD card (☞ P.17). [Internal memory]: Records on the internal memory on the voice recorder. [microSD card]: Records on the microSD card. The voice recorder turns OFF automatically when a preset amount of time has elapsed with the voice recorder stopped after power ON.
Device menu [Device Menu] Setting the date/time [Time & Date] Set the date and time beforehand to enable easier management of recorded files. If the current date and time are not correct, set them using the procedure below. 1 Press the 9 or 0 button to select the desired setting item. 5 10:38 PM (default format) 22:38 • When setting the year, month or date, each time you press the F2 button the display order used for the date changes.
Device menu [Device Menu] Setting the USB connection [USB Settings] The [PC] setting lets you connect the voice recorder to a PC to transfer files. The [AC Adapter] setting lets you connect the voice recorder to a USB-connection AC adapter (model A514; optional) to charge the rechargeable battery. You can change the USB class setting as required by different USB applications. See “Setting the USB connection [USB Settings]” (☞ P.89) for the procedure.
Device menu [Device Menu] 5 Device menu [Device Menu] LCD/Sound Menu: Backlight: 10 sec. Contrast: Level 06 LED: On Beep: On Language: English Speaker: On Device Menu: Memory Select: Internal memory Power Save: 10 min. Battery: Ni-MH*2 Alkaline*4 USB Settings: USB Connection: PC USB Class: Storage Class FM Menu*1: Rec Mode: MP3 128 kbps Scan level: High Output: Earphone *1 WS-833 model only *2 WS-833 and WS-832 models only *3 Function active only in [Recorder] mode.
FM menu [FM Menu] WS-833 model only Selecting the recording sound quality [Rec Mode] This setting cannot be changed while recording from FM radio. [MP3 256 kbps] [MP3 128 kbps] You can preset radio stations to make them easier to select (☞ P.49, P.53). Setting scanning sensitivity [Scan Level] You can select whether the sound of the FM radio is output from the earphones or built-in speaker. This setting cannot be changed while recording from the radio.
Extracting the speaking portions of files of spoken-word content [Voice Detect] Extracting the speaking portions of files of spoken-word content [Voice Detect] The [Voice Detect] function extracts the speaking portions of a file of spoken-word content recorded by the voice recorder. WS-833 and WS-832 models only 6 Press the `OK button. NOTE 5 Extracting the speaking portions of files of spoken-word content [Voice Detect] EN 82 • The [Voice Detect] function can only be used in [Recorder] mode.
Extracting the speaking portions of files of spoken-word content [Voice Detect] Extracting the speaking portions of files of spoken-word content [Voice Detect] NOTE 5 Extracting the speaking portions of files of spoken-word content [Voice Detect] • The message [No file] appears if you select a folder that doesn’t contain a saved file. You must select a folder containing a file before you can perform the process.
Moving/copying files [Move/Copy] Moving/copying files [Move/Copy] Files saved in the internal memory or on a microSD card can be moved or copied within memory. 6 Press the +/– button to select the desired file movement/copying method. WS-833 and WS-832 models only 1 5 Moving/copying files [Move/Copy] Before performing the move/ copy operation, first select the folder containing the file you want to move or copy (☞ P.24). 2 Press the MENU/SCENE button while the voice recorder is in stop mode.
Moving/copying files [Move/Copy] Moving/copying files [Move/Copy] 8 When [One file] was selected [One file]: Selects only the specified file [Selected files]: Lets you select multiple files. [All files]: Selects all the files in the folder. When [Selected files] was selected Press the `OK button to continue to the next setting. 1 Press the +/– button to select the file to move or copy, then press the `OK button. 1 Press the +/– button to select a file to move or copy, then press the `OK button.
Moving/copying files [Move/Copy] Moving/copying files [Move/Copy] When [All files] was selected All the files in the current folder are selected automatically, and the display switches to the [Destination] screen. 10 Press the +/–, 9 or 0 button to select the folder to move or copy the files to. 5 Moving/copying files [Move/Copy] EN 86 11 Press the F2 button. • The progress of the operation is shown as a percentage in the display.
Dividing files [File Divide] Dividing a file [File Divide] Large files or files with long recording times can be divided for easier management and editing. 6 Press the + button to select [Start]. 7 Press the `OK button. NOTE Only MP3-format and PCM-format* files recorded on the voice recorder can be divided. * WS-833 and WS-832 models only 1 • Press and hold the 9 or 0 button to fast-forward/rewind. • Writing an index mark/temp mark at the division point beforehand is handy.
Dividing files [File Divide] Dividing a file [File Divide] TIP • After dividing a file, the first half of the file is given the name “File name_1” and the second half “File name_2”. NOTE 5 Dividing files [File Divide] EN 88 • [File Divide] can be performed only when the file list is displayed. • Files cannot be divided if there are 200 files in the folder. • Locked files (☞ P.61) cannot be divided. • It may not be possible to divide some MP3 or PCM files with extremely short recording times.
Setting the USB connection [USB Settings] Setting the USB connection [USB Settings] The [PC] setting lets you connect the voice recorder to a PC to transfer files. The [AC Adapter] setting lets you connect the voice recorder to a USB-connection AC adapter (model A514; optional) to charge the rechargeable battery. You can change the USB class setting as required by different USB applications. While the voice recorder is in stop mode, press and hold the MENU/ SCENE button.
Setting the USB connection [USB Settings] Setting the USB connection [USB Settings] 8 5 Setting the USB connection [USB Settings] EN 90 When [USB Connection] was selected When [USB Class] was selected Press the +/– button to select a setting. 10 Press the +/– button to select a setting. [PC]: Select to connect the voice recorder to a PC. The voice recorder will be connected as a storage or composite device.
Formatting recording media [Format] Formatting a recording media [Format] Formatting a recording media erases all existing files saved on it. Be sure to transfer all important files to a PC before formatting. 1 While the voice recorder is in stop mode, press and hold the MENU/ SCENE button. 2 Press the +/– button to select the [Device Menu] tab. 3 Press the `OK button to move the cursor into the list of setting items. Press the +/– button to select [Format]. 5 Press the `OK button.
Formatting recording media [Format] Formatting a recording media [Format] NOTE 5 Formatting recording media [Format] EN 92 • Never format the voice recorder from a PC. • Formatting erases all the existing data, including locked files and read-only files. • If there is a microSD card in the voice recorder, make sure [Internal memory] or [microSD card] has been correctly selected as the recording media to erase (☞ P.77).
Use with a PC Connecting the voice recorder to a PC lets you: • Play WMA-, MP3- and WAV*-format language-learning content and music files loaded on a PC using Windows Media Player or iTunes. * WS-833 and WS-832 models only • As well as a voice recorder and music player, you can use this device as a PC’s external memory device to save or read data from the PC (☞ P.98). PC operating environment Macintosh Operating system Microsoft Windows XP/Vista/7/8 standard installation Operating system Mac OS X 10.
PC operating environment PC connection precautions 6 PC operating environment EN 94 • When uploading or downloading a file to or from the voice recorder, data transfer will continue as long as the voice recorder’s LED indicator light is flashing, even if the PC data communication screen disappears. Never disconnect the USB connector before data communication has finished. Always use the procedure on ☞ P.96 to disconnect the USB connector.
PC connection/disconnection Connecting the voice recorder to a PC 1 Start the PC. 2 Slide the USB connector slide lever in the direction of the arrow. 3 After making sure the voice recorder is in stop mode, connect its USB connector to a USB port on the PC. • [Remote (Storage)] appears in the voice recorder’s display when the USB connector is connected. • The voice recorder will not connect to the PC if [AC Adapter] was selected for the voice recorder’s [USB Connection] setting.
PC connection/disconnection Disconnecting the voice recorder from a PC Windows 1 On the task bar at the bottomright of the screen, click [ ] and select [Safely remove USB Mass Storage Device]. Macintosh Drag-and-drop the removable disk icon for the voice recorder shown on the desktop to the trash can icon. 2 Check that the voice recorder’s LED indicator light is off before disconnecting the voice recorder from the PC. • The letter used to identify the drive will vary according to your PC.
Loading a file to a PC The voice recorder’s five audio recording folders are displayed on the PC as [FOLDER_A], [FOLDER_B], [FOLDER_C], [FOLDER_D] and [FOLDER_E]. Recorded audio files are displayed within these folders (for WS-833 model only, recordings from FM radio are saved in a folder labeled [FLD_FM]). You can copy voice recorder files to any folder on the PC.
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 1 Connect the voice recorder to the PC (☞ P.95). 2 Open Windows Explorer. • When you open [My Computer], the voice recorder is recognized and displayed with the model name as the drive name. 3 Click on the folder labeled with your voice recorder’s model name. 4 Copy the desired data to the PC. 5 Disconnect the voice recorder from the PC (☞ P.96).
Other information Alarm message list Message Meaning Action required Battery low The remaining battery power is low. Replace or charge the battery (☞ P.9, P.11). File locked An attempt was made to erase a locked file. You must unlock the file before you can erase it (☞ P.61). An attempt was made to record when not in [Recorder] mode. Before recording, select [Recorder] mode and one of the folders from [Folder A] to [Folder E] (☞ P.21, P.24).
Alarm message list Message There are no files in the folder. Format error A formatting problem occurred. Format the memory again (☞ P.91). Can’t create the system file. Connect to PC and erase unnecessary file The voice recorder is unable to create a management file due to low remaining memory. Connect the voice recorder to a PC and erase unneeded files. Cannot play this file The file’s format is not supported. Select a file that can be played by the voice recorder (☞ P.38).
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.9). The remaining battery power is low. Replace or charge the battery (☞ P.9, P.11). The power is OFF. Turn the power ON (☞ P.9). The remaining battery power is low. Replace or charge the battery (☞ P.9, P.11). The power is OFF. Turn the power ON (☞ P.9).
Troubleshooting Problem Possible cause Solution WS-833 model only Audio file sound is distorted. An audio file is not recorded in stereo. The recording level hasn’t been adjusted. The voice recorder’s recording level, or the output level of the connected external device may be too high. Redo recording after adjusting the recording level (☞ P.63). If the problem continues after adjusting the voice recorder’s recording level (☞ P.63), adjust the output level of the external device.
Troubleshooting Problem Noise when monitoring a recording Unable to write index marks/temp marks Possible cause Solution Connecting a speaker with a built-in amplifier may cause feedback during recording. Using the earphones to monitor recording is recommended. Feedback is being caused. Adjust the recording setup such as by moving the earphones and microphone farther apart, or ensuring the microphone is not facing the earphones. The maximum number of marks (99) has been reached.
Recorder care s Exterior • Wipe gently with a soft cloth. If the recorder is very dirty, soak the cloth in mild soapy water and wring well. Wipe the recorder with the damp cloth and then wipe it with a dry cloth. s Monitor • Wipe gently with a soft cloth. NOTE • Do not use benzene, alcohol or other strong solvents, or chemical cleaning cloths.
Accessories (optional) Accessories for Olympus voice recorders can be purchased directly from the Online Shop on the Olympus website. Availability of accessories differs depending on the country. ME51SW stereo microphone Has a large-diameter built-in microphone for sensitive stereo recording. ME30W two-channel microphone (omnidirectional) An omnidirectional microphone pair with a low-noise design ideal for recording in lecture halls or other large venues.
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 other information. • Voice recorder displays and product illustrations shown in this manual may differ from the actual product. While every precaution has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information in this manual, errors may occasionally arise.
Safety precautions Before using the voice recorder, read this 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 safety precautions in this manual are accompanied by the symbol and labels below. Always follow these precautions to prevent harming yourself or others, or causing damage to property. • The meaning of each precaution type is given below.
Safety precautions s 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 or an Olympus service center for repair. Continued use may result in fire or electric shock. s Do not use the voice recorder or use it only as directed in airplanes, hospitals or other locations where use of electronic devices is restricted.
Safety precautions f WARNING s Do not touch or hold the battery with wet hands. It may cause electric shock or malfunctions. s Do not use a battery with a scratched or damaged case. It may cause ruptures or overheating. s Do not insert the battery with its positive/negative terminals in the opposite direction. s Battery fluid in the eyes may cause blindness. If battery fluid gets in eyes, do not rub the eyes. Instead, rinse them thoroughly with tap water or other clean water right away.
Safety precautions Disposing the rechargeable battery s Recycling batteries helps saving resources. When disposing a used battery, always cover its terminals and observe local laws and regulations. Operating precautions 7 Safety precautions EN 110 • Do not leave the voice recorder in hot or humid locations such as in direct sunlight inside a vehicle, or on a beach during summer. • Do not store the voice recorder in humid or dusty locations.
Specifications 4 Recording media* General items 4 Recording formats Linear PCM (pulse-code modulation) format (WS-833 and WS-832 models only) MP3 (MPEG-1 Audio Layer 3) format WMA (Windows Media Audio) format 4 Sampling frequency Linear PCM format 44.1 kHz/16 bits*1 44.1 kHz Internal NAND flash memory WS-833 model: 8 GB; WS-832 model: 4 GB; WS-831 model: 2 GB microSD card (Supports card capacities ranging from 2 to 32 GB.
Specifications Frequency response 4 When recording from MIC jack Linear PCM format 44.
Specifications Battery life The figures below are guideline values. 4 When recording with built-in stereo microphone (using internal memory) Alkaline dry cell battery Recording mode Nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery Linear PCM format 44.1 kHz/16 bits* 20 hours (approx.) 15 hours (approx.) MP3 format 128 kbps 32 kbps 8 kbps 27 hours (approx.) 32 hours (approx.) 37 hours (approx.) 21 hours (approx.) 24 hours (approx.) 28 hours (approx.
Specifications NOTE • The battery life figures shown here were determined using an Olympus test method. Actual battery life figures will vary greatly according to the battery used and usage conditions. • Battery life will be shorter when using a nickel-metal hydride rechargeable battery that has been used repeatedly. • Battery life will be shorter when using a microSD card.
Specifications 4 WMA format Recording media Internal memory microSD card WS-833 model (8 GB) WS-832 model (4 GB) WS-831 model (2 GB) 32 GB 16 GB 8 GB Recording mode 32 kbps 8 kbps 505 hours (approx.) 1980 hours (approx.) 257 hours (approx.) 1000 hours (approx.) 126 hours (approx.) 493 hours (approx.) 2070 hours (approx.) 1030 hours (approx.) 515 hours (approx.) 8100 hours (approx.) 4030 hours (approx.) 2010 hours (approx.
Specifications Maximum recording time per file • The maximum file size is limited to about 4 GB in the WMA and MP3 formats, and to about 2 GB in the linear PCM (WAV) format. • Regardless of the amount of remaining memory, the maximum recording time per file is restricted to the following values: 4 Linear PCM format Recording mode Recording time 44.1 kHz/16 bits*1 3 hours, 20 minutes (approx.) Number of music tracks (songs) that can be recorded The figures below are guideline values.
For customers in Europe: The “CE” mark indicates that this product complies with the European requirements for safety, health, environment and customer protection. This symbol [crossed-out wheeled bin WEEE Annex IV] indicates separate collection of waste electrical and electronic equipment in the EU countries. Please do not throw the equipment into the domestic refuse. Please use the return and collection systems available in your country for the disposal of this product.
OLYMPUS IMAGING CORP. 2951 Ishikawa-machi, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo 192-8507, Japan. OLYMPUS EUROPA SE & CO. KG Premises: Goods delivery: Letters: Consumer Product Division Wendenstrasse 14 - 18, 20097 Hamburg, Germany. Tel. :+49 40 -23 77 3-0 / Fax +49 40 - 23 07 61 Modul H, Willi-Bleicher Str. 36, 52353 Düren, Germany. Postfach 10 49 08, 20034 Hamburg, Germany. European Technical Customer Support: Please visit our homepage http://www.olympus-europa.
