Sony ICD-PX470 Digital Voice Recorder Review

Are you searching for a reliable voice recorder that delivers crystal clear audio without breaking the bank? The Sony ICD-PX470 has become one of the most popular choices for students, journalists, musicians, and professionals who need dependable recording capabilities.

This comprehensive review explores everything you need to know about this powerful digital voice recorder. You will discover its features, performance, pros and cons, and whether it fits your recording needs perfectly.

Key Takeaways

Before diving deep into this review, here are the essential points you should know about the Sony ICD-PX470:

Outstanding battery life provides up to 55 hours of continuous recording on just two AAA batteries, making it perfect for extended conferences, lectures, and multi-day events without worrying about power.

Expandable storage capacity starts with 4GB internal memory and supports up to 32GB via microSD card, giving you over 536 hours of total recording time at MP3 128kbps quality.

Superior audio quality with adjustable microphone sensitivity settings and multiple recording formats including MP3, WMA, AAC-LC, and lossless PCM/WAV at 16-bit 44.1kHz for professional applications.

User-friendly design features a simple interface with dedicated buttons, built-in USB connection for easy file transfers, and a clear LCD screen that makes navigation effortless even for beginners.

Affordable price point typically ranges between $50-70, offering exceptional value compared to more expensive professional recorders while maintaining excellent sound quality and reliability.

What Makes the Sony ICD-PX470 Stand Out

The Sony ICD-PX470 represents Sony’s commitment to delivering professional-grade recording technology in an accessible package. This digital voice recorder has earned its reputation through consistent performance and thoughtful design choices. Users appreciate how Sony has balanced advanced features with straightforward operation.

The device measures compact enough to slip into your pocket or bag easily. You can carry it anywhere without feeling burdened by extra weight. The matte black finish gives it a professional appearance that works well in business settings, classrooms, or creative environments. Sony designed this recorder with practical functionality in mind rather than flashy aesthetics.

What truly sets this model apart is its versatility across different recording scenarios. Whether you record lectures in large auditoriums, conduct interviews in quiet offices, or capture musical performances in practice rooms, the ICD-PX470 adapts to your needs. The adjustable microphone sensitivity ensures you capture audio clearly in various acoustic environments.

Memory and Storage Capacity Explained

Storage capacity often determines how useful a voice recorder becomes in real-world situations. The Sony ICD-PX470 comes equipped with 4GB of built-in memory straight out of the box. This internal storage provides approximately 59 hours and 35 minutes of recording time when using stereo MP3 format at 128kbps bitrate.

However, Sony understands that different users have different storage requirements. The device includes a microSD card slot that accepts cards up to 32GB in capacity. When you add a 32GB microSD card, your total recording time jumps to over 536 hours at MP3 128kbps quality. This expandability makes the recorder incredibly practical for extensive projects.

The storage management system works intuitively. You can organize recordings into folders, making file management simple even when you have hundreds of audio files. The device supports up to 199 files per folder, allowing systematic organization of your recordings. This folder structure helps when you need to categorize recordings by date, project, or subject matter.

File transfer happens seamlessly through the built-in USB connector. You simply flip out the USB arm and plug directly into any computer. No cables required. The recorder appears as a standard USB storage device, allowing drag-and-drop file transfers without special software. This convenience saves time and eliminates the frustration of searching for proprietary cables.

Battery Life Performance

Battery performance can make or break a voice recorder’s usefulness. The Sony ICD-PX470 excels in this critical area with truly impressive battery life specifications. The device operates on two standard AAA batteries, which provides excellent flexibility compared to built-in rechargeable batteries.

When recording with the built-in microphone at MP3 192kbps or 128kbps quality, the supplied AAA alkaline batteries deliver up to 55 hours of continuous recording time. This translates to more than two full days of non-stop recording between battery changes. Such endurance makes the ICD-PX470 ideal for lengthy conferences, week-long seminars, or extended field recording sessions.

If you prefer rechargeable batteries, you can use NiMH AAA batteries which provide about 40 hours of recording time per charge. While slightly less than alkaline batteries, rechargeable options offer significant cost savings for regular users. The flexibility to choose between alkaline and rechargeable batteries means you always have backup power options available.

Playback through the built-in speaker consumes more power than recording. You can expect approximately 18 hours of continuous playback on a fresh set of AAA batteries. When using headphones instead of the speaker, playback time extends even further. This battery efficiency ensures you can review recordings extensively without constantly replacing batteries.

The device also shows a clear battery indicator on the LCD display. You always know your remaining power level, preventing unexpected shutdowns during important recordings. This simple feature provides peace of mind during critical recording situations.

Audio Recording Quality Assessment

Recording quality determines whether your audio files will be useful or frustrating. The Sony ICD-PX470 delivers impressive audio quality that competes with much more expensive recorders. The built-in stereo microphone captures sound with clarity and depth that surprises many users.

The recorder supports multiple recording formats to match your quality requirements. You can record in MP3 format at various bitrates including 192kbps, 128kbps, and 48kbps. For voice recordings like lectures or meetings, MP3 128kbps provides excellent clarity while conserving storage space. When you need maximum quality, the device supports lossless PCM/WAV recording at 16-bit 44.1kHz, which delivers CD-quality audio.

The adjustable microphone sensitivity feature proves invaluable in different recording environments. You can select from multiple sensitivity levels to optimize recording based on your distance from the sound source and ambient noise levels. High sensitivity works perfectly for capturing quiet speakers or distant sounds, while lower sensitivity prevents distortion in loud environments.

Sony includes an Auto Voice Recording function that intelligently reduces background noise while emphasizing human voices. This feature works remarkably well for interviews, lectures, and meetings where clear voice capture is the priority. The technology helps filter out air conditioning hum, paper rustling, and other ambient distractions.

Users consistently report that the ICD-PX470 captures crystal clear recordings with minimal background noise. The stereo microphones provide good spatial awareness, helping you distinguish between multiple speakers in group discussions. While not matching studio-grade equipment, the recording quality exceeds what most users expect from a device in this price range.

Top 3 Alternatives for Sony ICD-PX470

While the Sony ICD-PX470 offers excellent value, you might want to consider these quality alternatives depending on your specific needs:

User Interface and Navigation

A recording device becomes useless if you cannot operate it easily when needed. The Sony ICD-PX470 features an intuitive interface that makes operation straightforward even for first-time users. The control layout follows logical patterns that feel natural after minimal practice.

The front panel includes clearly labeled buttons for all essential functions. A large central navigation button allows easy menu navigation and playback control. Dedicated buttons for recording, stop, and delete operations mean you can perform critical functions without diving into menus. This direct access saves time and reduces the chance of missing important audio.

The LCD display measures one inch and provides clear visibility of all essential information. You can easily read recording levels, remaining battery life, storage capacity, and current settings at a glance. The screen includes a backlight feature that helps when recording in dimly lit environments like theaters or conference halls.

Menu organization follows a logical hierarchy that groups related settings together. You can adjust recording quality, microphone sensitivity, playback speed, and other parameters quickly. The menu system uses plain language rather than technical jargon, making settings accessible to users without audio engineering backgrounds.

Sony includes several helpful convenience features in the interface. A quick review function lets you instantly playback the last few seconds of recording to verify quality. Calendar search helps you locate recordings by date. Multiple folder support allows systematic organization of numerous files. These thoughtful touches demonstrate Sony’s understanding of real-world usage patterns.

Playback Features and Functions

Recording audio represents only half of a voice recorder’s job. Playback capabilities determine how effectively you can review and utilize your recordings. The Sony ICD-PX470 includes numerous playback features that enhance usability significantly.

The built-in speaker delivers clear, loud playback suitable for personal review or small group listening. While not replacing dedicated speakers, the built-in speaker provides sufficient volume and clarity for most situations. You can adjust volume across multiple levels to match your environment and preferences.

For private listening or critical review, the device includes a standard 3.5mm headphone jack. Using headphones reveals audio details that the built-in speaker cannot reproduce, making headphones essential for transcription work or detailed audio analysis. The headphone output provides clean sound without noticeable hiss or interference.

Sony includes several playback speed options that prove incredibly useful for different applications. You can slow playback down to 0.5x speed when transcribing difficult passages or learning foreign languages. Alternatively, speed up playback to 1.5x or 2x when reviewing familiar material to save time. The recorder maintains pitch during speed adjustments, preventing the “chipmunk effect” that plagues some devices.

The A-B repeat function allows you to loop specific sections of recordings. Mark a start point and end point, and the recorder plays that section continuously. This feature helps when transcribing, learning music, or analyzing specific portions of interviews. Combined with variable playback speed, A-B repeat makes detailed work much more efficient.

A track mark feature lets you insert markers during recording or playback. These markers act like bookmarks, allowing quick navigation to important sections within long recordings. You can jump directly to specific points without listening through hours of audio searching for relevant content.

Recording Modes and Format Options

Different recording situations demand different quality settings. The Sony ICD-PX470 provides flexible recording options that balance audio quality with storage efficiency based on your specific needs.

The device supports multiple audio formats including MP3, WMA, AAC-LC, PCM, and WAV. MP3 remains the most popular choice due to universal compatibility and efficient compression. The recorder offers MP3 recording at 192kbps, 128kbps, and 48kbps bitrates. Higher bitrates deliver better quality but consume more storage space.

For situations where maximum quality matters, the ICD-PX470 supports uncompressed recording formats. PCM and WAV recording at 16-bit 44.1kHz provides CD-quality audio without any compression artifacts. These formats work perfectly for recording music performances, professional interviews, or any application where audio fidelity cannot be compromised.

Sony includes stereo and mono recording options. Stereo recording captures spatial information and works well for music, ambient sounds, or multi-speaker situations. Mono recording uses half the storage space and works perfectly for single-speaker scenarios like lectures or solo interviews. Choosing the appropriate recording mode helps maximize your available storage.

The Scene Select function provides pre-configured settings optimized for common recording scenarios. Options include settings for dictation, meetings, lectures, interviews, and audio source recording. These presets adjust microphone sensitivity, recording quality, and other parameters automatically. Beginners appreciate these shortcuts while experienced users can still customize every setting manually.

A voice-operated recording mode starts and stops recording automatically based on sound detection. This feature prevents wasting storage on silent periods during meetings or lectures. The sensitivity threshold is adjustable, allowing you to customize when recording triggers. Voice-operated recording extends both battery life and available storage significantly.

Build Quality and Design Features

The physical construction of a recording device affects both durability and usability. The Sony ICD-PX470 features solid build quality that inspires confidence during daily use. Sony selected materials and construction methods that balance affordability with reliability.

The recorder case uses durable plastic construction that feels substantial without adding unnecessary weight. The matte finish resists fingerprints and minor scratches that accumulate during regular use. Corner reinforcements protect vulnerable points from impact damage if you accidentally drop the device.

Button quality exceeds expectations for the price point. All controls provide tactile feedback that confirms activation without requiring visual verification. The buttons resist accidental activation when carried in pockets or bags. Button labels use clear typography that remains legible even in low light conditions.

The built-in USB connector folds out from the body when needed and stores flush when not in use. This integrated design eliminates the need for carrying separate cables. The USB mechanism feels sturdy and maintains good connection with computer ports. Sony engineered this feature for thousands of insertion cycles without loosening or breaking.

Port placement shows thoughtful consideration. The headphone jack and microSD card slot locate on the side of the device where they do not interfere with normal operation. A wrist strap attachment point allows securing the recorder to prevent drops. The battery compartment uses a secure sliding cover that resists accidental opening.

Overall dimensions measure compact enough for pocket carry while remaining large enough for comfortable handling. The recorder weighs approximately 2.7 ounces including batteries, making it one of the lighter options available. This weight makes extended handheld recording comfortable without causing fatigue.

Connectivity and File Transfer

Modern recording devices must integrate smoothly with computers and other equipment. The Sony ICD-PX470 handles connectivity requirements efficiently through simple, reliable methods that work across different platforms and operating systems.

The most notable connectivity feature is the built-in USB connection that flips out directly from the recorder body. This eliminates dependency on proprietary cables that easily get lost or damaged. You simply unfold the USB arm and plug directly into any standard USB port on Mac or Windows computers.

When connected to a computer, the ICD-PX470 appears as a standard USB mass storage device. No special drivers or software installation required. You can browse recordings just like any external hard drive using your computer’s file manager. This universal compatibility ensures the recorder works reliably regardless of your computer setup.

File transfer happens through simple drag and drop operations. Copy recordings from the recorder to your computer, or transfer music files to the device for playback. The transfer speed depends on your computer’s USB capabilities but generally completes quickly even for hours of recordings. The USB connection also powers the device, preserving battery life during extended file transfers.

The recorder supports both Mac and Windows operating systems without configuration. Linux users also report smooth compatibility. This cross-platform support ensures you can use the device regardless of your computing ecosystem. Files transfer with original timestamps preserved, helping with organization and documentation.

While the ICD-PX470 lacks wireless connectivity like Bluetooth or WiFi, this omission keeps the design simple and reliable. Wireless features would increase price, complexity, and power consumption. For a dedicated voice recorder, the direct USB connection provides faster, more secure file transfers than wireless alternatives anyway.

Microphone Performance in Different Environments

Microphone performance varies dramatically based on acoustic environments. The Sony ICD-PX470 built-in stereo microphones adapt well to diverse recording situations when you utilize the available sensitivity settings properly.

In quiet environments like offices or small meeting rooms, the microphones capture excellent detail with minimal background noise. The stereo configuration provides spatial awareness that helps distinguish between multiple speakers. Setting the sensitivity to low or medium prevents distortion while maintaining clear voice reproduction.

Large spaces like lecture halls and auditoriums present greater challenges for any voice recorder. The ICD-PX470 handles these situations admirably when you increase microphone sensitivity appropriately. High sensitivity settings capture distant speakers clearly, though they also amplify ambient noise like air conditioning or audience movement. Positioning the recorder closer to the sound source improves results significantly.

Outdoor recording introduces wind noise that plagues most built-in microphones. The ICD-PX470 microphones show moderate wind sensitivity. While Sony does not include a dedicated windscreen, placing your hand partially over the microphones or positioning the recorder in a sheltered location reduces wind interference. For regular outdoor use, investing in an external windscreen improves performance.

Musical recording requires balanced frequency response and good dynamic range. The ICD-PX470 microphones handle music recording surprisingly well for their size and design. While not matching dedicated music recording equipment, they capture rehearsals, practice sessions, and informal performances with acceptable fidelity. Using the highest quality recording mode maximizes music reproduction quality.

The adjustable sensitivity control proves essential for optimizing microphone performance. Sony provides multiple sensitivity levels that allow fine-tuning based on recording distance and acoustic properties. Experimenting with different settings helps you understand which works best for your typical recording scenarios.

Special Features and Advanced Functions

Beyond basic recording and playback, the Sony ICD-PX470 includes several special features that increase its versatility and usefulness for specific applications.

The voice-operated recording (VOR) function conserves storage and battery by automatically starting and stopping recording based on sound detection. You set a sensitivity threshold, and the recorder activates when sound exceeds that level. This proves invaluable during meetings with intermittent speaking or lectures with pauses. The feature prevents recording hours of silence while capturing all important content.

Overwrite and add functions allow editing recordings directly on the device. Overwrite mode lets you record over existing portions of files, useful for correcting mistakes in dictation. Add mode allows appending new audio to the end of existing recordings. These editing capabilities reduce the need for computer-based audio editing in simple scenarios.

A low cut filter reduces low-frequency rumble and noise that often affects recordings. This feature helps eliminate handling noise, air conditioning hum, and other bass-heavy interference. Activating the low cut filter improves voice intelligibility by emphasizing mid-range frequencies where human speech resides.

The normalize function automatically adjusts playback volume to optimal levels. This ensures consistent listening volume across recordings made at different sensitivity settings or in various acoustic environments. Normalization saves you from constantly adjusting volume during playback.

Sony includes an alarm function that allows using the recorder as a reminder device. Set an alarm time and record a voice message that plays at the scheduled time. While not a primary feature, this capability adds utility for users who want audio reminders for meetings, appointments, or tasks.

The calendar search function helps locate recordings by date. When you have hundreds of files spanning months, finding specific recordings becomes challenging. Calendar search displays recordings by date, allowing quick navigation to the time period of interest. This organizational tool proves increasingly valuable as your recording library grows.

Practical Use Cases and Applications

Understanding how the Sony ICD-PX470 performs in real-world scenarios helps you determine if it matches your specific needs. Users successfully employ this recorder across numerous applications.

Students represent a primary user group for the ICD-PX470. Recording lectures allows reviewing material when studying for exams or completing assignments. The long battery life handles back-to-back classes without requiring battery changes. High sensitivity settings capture professors clearly even from rear seats in large lecture halls. Students appreciate the affordable price point that fits student budgets.

Journalists and interviewers value the reliable recording quality and extended recording time. The device easily captures entire interviews without interruption. Clear audio quality ensures accurate transcription later. The compact size allows discreet recording that does not intimidate interview subjects. Quick review functions let journalists verify recording quality immediately after interviews conclude.

Business professionals use the ICD-PX470 for recording meetings, conferences, and presentations. The professional appearance looks appropriate in corporate settings. Long recording time covers extended meetings without interruption. File organization features help manage recordings from multiple projects or clients. Easy file transfer facilitates sharing recordings with colleagues or transcription services.

Musicians employ the recorder for capturing practice sessions, rehearsals, songwriting sessions, and live performances. The stereo microphones provide reasonable spatial representation of musical ensembles. High-quality recording modes preserve musical detail adequately for reference purposes. The compact size allows unobtrusive placement during performances.

Legal professionals use voice recorders for documenting depositions, client meetings, and case notes. The reliable operation and clear recording quality meet professional requirements. Time-stamped recordings provide documentation for case files. Long battery life ensures the recorder operates throughout lengthy legal proceedings.

Researchers and academics conducting interviews and field studies benefit from the ICD-PX470’s reliability and storage capacity. The expandable memory handles extensive research projects involving numerous interviews. Clear recordings facilitate accurate transcription and analysis. The affordable price allows equipping research teams with multiple recorders.

Price and Value Proposition

Cost effectiveness often determines whether a device represents a smart purchase. The Sony ICD-PX470 typically sells for approximately $50 to $70 depending on retailer and promotions. This price point positions it in the budget-friendly to mid-range category for digital voice recorders.

Compared to competing recorders in similar price ranges, the ICD-PX470 offers superior value. You receive longer battery life, better build quality, more flexible recording options, and larger expandable memory than most alternatives. Sony’s reputation for quality and reliability adds confidence that the device will perform consistently over years of use.

More expensive professional recorders exist offering features like balanced XLR inputs, professional metering, and higher sample rates. However, these advanced features matter primarily to audio professionals. For typical voice recording applications, the ICD-PX470 delivers equivalent practical performance at a fraction of the cost.

The device’s low operating costs enhance its value proposition. Standard AAA batteries cost pennies and last 40-55 hours. Optional microSD cards for storage expansion remain inexpensive. No subscription fees or proprietary accessories required. Total cost of ownership remains minimal beyond the initial purchase price.

When you consider the combination of performance, features, reliability, and cost, the Sony ICD-PX470 represents excellent value for students, professionals, and casual users. It delivers professional-grade results without requiring professional-grade investment.

Limitations and Drawbacks

No recording device is perfect for every situation. Understanding the Sony ICD-PX470’s limitations helps set realistic expectations and determine if it fits your requirements.

The most significant limitation is the lack of rechargeable battery support built into the device. While you can use rechargeable AAA batteries, the recorder itself does not include charging circuitry. You cannot charge batteries by connecting the USB cable. This means carrying a separate battery charger when using rechargeable batteries, which reduces convenience compared to devices with integrated charging.

The maximum microSD card capacity of 32GB might limit users with extreme storage requirements. While 536 hours of recording represents massive capacity for most users, professional applications requiring weeks of continuous recording might demand more. Upgrading to a larger memory card is not possible due to hardware limitations.

The built-in microphones cannot be detached or upgraded. Users needing stereo microphones with different characteristics or external microphone placement must use the external microphone input. While the included microphones perform well, they lack the flexibility of recorders with interchangeable microphone systems.

The device offers no wireless connectivity options. You cannot transfer files via Bluetooth or WiFi, nor can you control the recorder remotely. For users prioritizing wireless convenience, this represents a significant limitation. However, wireless features would increase cost and complexity while reducing battery life.

The LCD screen lacks backlighting controls. The backlight operates automatically based on button presses but cannot be adjusted for brightness or duration. Some users prefer more control over screen backlighting to conserve battery or improve visibility in various lighting conditions.

Wind noise sensitivity affects outdoor recording quality. The exposed microphones pick up wind noise readily without an external windscreen. While manageable with proper positioning, dedicated outdoor recording benefits from aftermarket wind protection accessories.

Comparison with Similar Sony Models

Sony manufactures several voice recorders in similar price ranges. Comparing the ICD-PX470 with related models helps you choose the right Sony recorder for your needs.

The Sony ICD-PX370 represents the previous generation model. It offers similar basic functionality but with shorter battery life, less memory capacity, and fewer advanced features. The PX470 provides better overall value due to incremental improvements across multiple areas. Price differences between models rarely justify choosing the older PX370.

The Sony ICD-UX570 targets users prioritizing ultimate portability. It features a slimmer, more compact design than the PX470 but sacrifices battery life and built-in USB connectivity. The UX570 costs more while offering less recording time and fewer features. Choose the UX570 only if minimal size represents your absolute priority.

The Sony ICD-PX570 adds a few enhancements over the PX470, including a larger display and additional recording format support. However, these improvements offer minimal practical benefit for most users. The PX570 typically costs $20-30 more than the PX470 without delivering proportional value increases.

For most users, the ICD-PX470 represents the sweet spot in Sony’s voice recorder lineup. It balances features, performance, and price better than more expensive or less capable models. Only users with specific requirements for extreme portability or advanced features should consider alternatives.

Maintenance and Long-Term Reliability

A voice recorder’s usefulness depends on reliable operation over months and years. The Sony ICD-PX470 demonstrates excellent long-term reliability based on user reports and Sony’s quality reputation.

The device requires minimal maintenance during normal use. Keep the microphone openings clear of dust and debris using occasional compressed air cleaning. Wipe the exterior with a slightly damp cloth to remove fingerprints and dirt. Avoid exposing the recorder to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight for extended periods.

Battery contacts should be inspected periodically for corrosion, especially if using alkaline batteries. Remove batteries if storing the device for extended periods to prevent battery leakage damage. Clean any corrosion from contacts using a pencil eraser or fine sandpaper to maintain good electrical connection.

The USB connector mechanism represents the most mechanically complex component. Handle it gently when connecting and disconnecting from computers. The connector should last for thousands of cycles with normal care. Avoid forcing the USB arm or computer ports if they do not align easily.

Software updates are not available for the ICD-PX470. The device uses firmware embedded during manufacturing that cannot be updated by users. While this limits future functionality improvements, it also eliminates compatibility issues caused by update failures.

Users report excellent long-term reliability from Sony voice recorders. Many report years of daily use without failures or significant performance degradation. Sony’s reputation for quality electronics translates well to their voice recorder line. Barring physical damage or abuse, the ICD-PX470 should provide reliable service for many years.

What Users Are Saying

Real user experiences provide valuable insights beyond specification sheets. Sony ICD-PX470 reviews from actual users reveal consistent themes across different applications and use cases.

Users consistently praise the recording quality, describing audio as crystal clear with minimal background noise. Many express surprise that an affordable recorder captures such professional sounding recordings. The adjustable sensitivity settings receive particular appreciation for allowing optimization across different environments.

The battery life generates universal acclaim. Users regularly report exceeding the specified 55-hour recording time in real-world use. The convenience of standard AAA batteries versus proprietary battery packs receives frequent mention. Users appreciate being able to purchase replacement batteries anywhere without searching for specific models.

Ease of use represents another consistently praised feature. First-time users report intuitive operation without needing to reference the manual extensively. The logical button layout and clear display make basic functions obvious. More advanced features remain accessible through well-organized menus.

Some users mention the lack of rechargeable battery capability as a minor inconvenience. While rechargeable AAA batteries work fine, users wish for integrated charging to eliminate the need for separate battery chargers. This represents the most common complaint, though most users consider it a minor issue.

Build quality receives positive feedback with users describing the recorder as feeling solid and well-constructed. The device withstands regular daily use in bags and pockets without damage. Button quality and overall durability exceed expectations based on the affordable price point.

Students particularly appreciate the value for money, noting that the ICD-PX470 performs similarly to recorders costing two or three times more. The combination of features, quality, and price makes it a popular choice among budget-conscious users who still demand reliable performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Sony ICD-PX470 record phone conversations?

The Sony ICD-PX470 can record phone conversations when used with an external telephone pickup microphone connected to the device’s microphone input jack. The built-in microphones will not effectively capture both sides of a phone conversation. You must also comply with local laws regarding phone conversation recording, as many jurisdictions require consent from all parties before recording calls.

How do I transfer recordings from the Sony ICD-PX470 to my computer?

Transferring recordings is simple with the built-in USB connector. Flip out the USB arm from the device body and plug it directly into any USB port on your computer. The recorder appears as a removable storage device on both Windows and Mac systems. You can then use your file manager to copy recording files to your computer through drag and drop operations. No special software or drivers are required for basic file transfer.

What is the maximum recording time on the Sony ICD-PX470?

Maximum recording time depends on the recording format and memory available. With the built-in 4GB memory, you can record approximately 59 hours and 35 minutes in stereo MP3 at 128kbps. Adding a 32GB microSD card extends total recording time to over 536 hours at the same quality setting. Lower quality settings like MP3 48kbps mono provide even longer recording times, while high quality formats like WAV reduce recording time significantly.

Does the Sony ICD-PX470 work with external microphones?

Yes, the ICD-PX470 includes a 3.5mm microphone input jack that accepts external microphones. When you connect an external microphone, the built-in microphones automatically disable. This allows using specialized microphones for specific applications like lavalier mics for interviews, shotgun mics for directional recording, or telephone pickup devices for phone conversations. The external microphone input supports plug-in-power for compatible microphones.

Can I use the Sony ICD-PX470 while it is charging?

The Sony ICD-PX470 does not include integrated battery charging capability. The device operates on standard AAA batteries that cannot be charged through the USB connection. You can use the recorder while connected to a computer via USB, and the USB connection will power the device to preserve battery life. However, this does not charge the batteries. You must use an external battery charger to recharge rechargeable AAA batteries.

How do I delete recordings on the Sony ICD-PX470?

You can delete recordings directly on the device using the dedicated erase button. During playback, press the erase button and confirm the deletion when prompted. You can delete individual files or select multiple files for batch deletion. The device also supports formatting the memory to erase all recordings at once. Deleted files cannot be recovered, so verify you have backed up important recordings before deletion.

What recording formats does the Sony ICD-PX470 support?

The ICD-PX470 supports multiple recording formats including MP3 at various bitrates (192kbps, 128kbps, 48kbps), WMA, AAC-LC, and uncompressed PCM/WAV at 16-bit 44.1kHz. You can record in either stereo or mono depending on your needs. The uncompressed formats provide the highest quality but consume significantly more storage space. Most users find MP3 at 128kbps provides an excellent balance between quality and file size for voice recordings.

Is the Sony ICD-PX470 good for recording music?

The Sony ICD-PX470 can record music adequately for practice sessions, rehearsals, and reference recordings. The stereo microphones capture reasonable spatial information and the high-quality recording modes preserve musical detail acceptably. However, the device is optimized for voice recording rather than music production. Professional music recording benefits from dedicated music recorders with more advanced microphones, higher sample rates, and professional-level inputs. For casual musical applications, the ICD-PX470 performs well.

How long do batteries last in the Sony ICD-PX470?

Battery life depends on the battery type and usage patterns. With alkaline AAA batteries during recording at MP3 128kbps quality, you can expect approximately 55 hours of continuous recording time. Playback through the built-in speaker provides about 18 hours of battery life. Using rechargeable NiMH AAA batteries reduces recording time to approximately 40 hours per charge. Battery life extends significantly when using headphones instead of the built-in speaker for playback.

Can the Sony ICD-PX470 be used as a USB microphone?

No, the Sony ICD-PX470 cannot function as a USB microphone for your computer. When connected via USB, it operates only as a mass storage device for file transfer. The device does not include audio interface functionality that would allow it to serve as a computer microphone. You must record audio on the device itself and then transfer the files to your computer for use.