Sony ICD-PX370 Review: Reliable Recording with Built-In USB

If you're in the market for a digital voice recorder, the Sony ICD-PX370 might catch your eye. It's a straightforward device that's all about getting the job done without a lot of fuss. I gave it a go for a couple of weeks and here’s what I found out.

Right off the bat, the thing that stands out is its simplicity. This isn't one of those overly complicated gadgets that require a manual the size of a novel. It’s pretty intuitive, which is nice if you don’t want to spend hours figuring out how to record a simple memo.

Another strong point is the battery life. Sony claims it can last up to 57 hours, which is quite impressive. In practice, I didn't quite hit that mark, but it was still solid enough for a week of regular usage without needing to swap out the batteries.

Overall, this recorder seems focused on practicality. There are no bells and whistles here, just a tool that records sound. Let’s dive into some more specifics.

In terms of value for money, the ICD-PX370 is pretty solid. It's not the cheapest option on the market, but for the features and reliability it offers, it’s reasonably priced. You’re getting a well-known brand with a reputation for quality, which always adds a bit of peace of mind.

While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles like some high-end recorders, what it does offer it does well. The built-in USB and decent battery life alone are worth the price for someone needing a reliable recording device for regular use.

If you're looking for something with more advanced features like higher-end sound quality or additional connectivity options, you might want to look elsewhere. However, for straightforward recording tasks, it's a cost-effective solution that doesn’t overcomplicate things.

Overall, the ICD-PX370 offers a good balance of price and performance, especially for those who need a reliable workhorse for basic recording needs.

The design of the Sony ICD-PX370 is pretty utilitarian. It’s compact and lightweight, weighing just about 136 grams, so carrying it around in a shirt pocket or a small bag is no problem. The dimensions (0.76" x 1.51" x 4.49") make it easy to handle, even with one hand.

It has a basic design that doesn't scream high-tech, but it doesn't need to. The buttons are well-placed and responsive, which makes operating it a breeze. You won't find a touchscreen here, just good old-fashioned buttons that do what they're supposed to.

As for build quality, it's mostly plastic, which doesn't exactly exude luxury, but it's durable enough for everyday use. It can definitely survive a drop or two, though I wouldn't recommend testing that theory too often.

In terms of aesthetics, it's nothing to write home about, but the functionality more than makes up for it. It's clear that Sony focused on a design that prioritizes function over form.

The advertised 57 hours of battery life is one of the ICD-PX370's selling points. In real-world use, it’s quite dependable. I managed to get through a week’s worth of short recordings and still had juice left. It uses two AA batteries, which are included, so you're ready to go right out of the box.

One thing I noticed is that the battery life can vary depending on settings and usage patterns. Higher quality recordings drain the battery faster than those at lower settings, which is expected. Still, for most day-to-day tasks, you won't find yourself changing batteries too often.

Having the option to use easy-to-find AA batteries instead of a proprietary rechargeable battery is a plus. If you’re out and about and the batteries die, you can easily find replacements without much hassle.

Overall, the battery life is a strong feature of the ICD-PX370, making it a reliable choice for longer recording sessions without constant interruptions.

When it comes to performance, the ICD-PX370 delivers well on its promise. It records in MP3 format, which is standard and works fine for most needs. The audio quality is decent, capturing voices clearly enough to understand with minimal background noise, thanks to its auto voice recording feature.

I tested it during a small meeting and later during a lecture. In both settings, the recorder picked up voices clearly without too much interference from background noise. The built-in microphone does a good job, considering the device's price point. It’s not studio-quality sound, but it’s more than satisfactory for note-taking or remembering discussions.

The USB connection is a nice touch too. Transferring files to a PC is as simple as plugging it in and dragging files over. This direct connection saves a lot of hassle compared to fiddling with cables or SD cards.

Overall, the ICD-PX370 is reliable for basic recording tasks. It doesn't pretend to be more than it is, and that's refreshing. You're getting a straightforward device that performs its core duty well.