My Best Kept SECRET For Great Audio! || Sony TX660 Review, TX650 Comparison
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- Опубліковано 9 лип 2024
- Looking for a compact audio device to capture speeches, interviews, etc. that's easy to set up and discrete enough to not be noticed? Though I've made heavy use of a number audio accessories - from my Rode VideoMic NTG shotgun microphones, to my Tascam DR-10L lavalier microphones, and my Zoom H6 external recorder - there's one unit that often acts as a backup and/or additional audio source on a number of gigs that has been my best kept secret for getting great audio quickly.
In this review, I'll reveal that product - the Sony TX660 audio recorder - and talk about the many specifications and features of the unit. Because I also own its predecessor - the Sony TX650 - I'll discuss the differences between the two units and include audio samples to compare their quality. Additionally I'll go over what I've used the unit for (e.g. weddings) and why you might choose one, and cover my assortment of preferred settings that you'll want to consider if you shoot video. Last, I'll cover my final thoughts and if I would recommend picking one of these up.
All in all, the Sony ICD-TX660 is a great pocket-sized voice recorder that delivers on its promise of getting great audio quickly, and has earned a place in my audio toolkit for that very reason.
If you like audio gear reviews and tutorial content like this, let me know in the comments below, and check out my additional reviews on audio gear already on the channel!
Sony TX660: amzn.to/3PwQeTH
Sony TX650: amzn.to/3vaOCqA
Mic Sleeves for the TX660/TX650: amzn.to/3J07RbU
0:00 - Intro, what makes the TX660 unique
0:23 - Overall specs and features
1:50 - ...but what about the TX650?
2:17 - TX660, TX650 audio quality comparison and samples
3:10 - TX660 vs. TX650, overview of what's different
4:28 - Price, which one would I choose?
4:48 - Why would you want one? What I use it for (w/ audio samples)
7:10 - My recommended settings for the TX660 (and TX650)
8:56 - Any drawbacks?
9:56 - Summary, would I recommend this?
11:05 - Conclusion
Rode VideoMic NTG Review:
• My FAVORITE Shotgun Mi...
Tascam DR-10L Review:
• The PERFECT Value Lav ...
Zoom H6 Review:
• This One Feature Has S...
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My Current Kit:
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Cameras & Lenses:
Sony a7S III: amzn.to/3Gd87kK
Sony a7 IV: amzn.to/3g3Ipoq
Sony a7 III: amzn.to/3GcEX5x
Sony 20mm f/1.8 G: amzn.to/3AE7pMt
Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM: amzn.to/3m2GbIT
Sony 16-35 f/2.8 GM: amzn.to/3AryrbN
Sony 24-70 f/2.8 GM II: amzn.to/3OWeb6k
Sony 70-200 f/2.8 GM II: amzn.to/3IPSge6
Audio:
Rode VideoMic NTG: amzn.to/3AJwTrW
Tascam DR-10L: amzn.to/3AIRA7l
Zoom H6: amzn.to/32HCgep
Sony TX660: amzn.to/3PwQeTH
Lighting:
Aputure LS 60x: amzn.to/3Gc04og
Aputure Amaran P60c: amzn.to/3ob7qm6
Aputure Amaran AL-F7: amzn.to/3g3IzMy
Aputure MC: amzn.to/34l8DzS
Tripod/Monopod:
Manfrotto 290 Xtra 128RC: amzn.to/3o8bPpV
iFootage Cobra C180-II: amzn.to/3r8kfPY
Affiliate Disclaimer: The above links to products may contain affiliate links, which may earn me a small commission as an Amazon Associate. Amazon and all related Marks are Trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. - Наука та технологія
thanks for the info man, truly useful!
No problem, glad you found it useful!
Thank you for this review. Been using the 650 for some time now and just picked up the 660.
No problem, enjoy the TX660!
Do you like the 660 better?
@GregorPQ I use them both equally. Don't really favor one over the other.
Great review man. Thanks!
No problem!
I didn't even knew i had that small leather pouch to put it xD thanks!
No problem!
Great video. Would you recommend this for a quick voice over? I just use the audio from my cellphone's camera normally but sometimes I need to voice over a particular piece of video and I don't want the quality to change(too much).
Thanks! Yes the TX660 is great for quick voiceovers, and/or as a replacement to a lav mic.
Great video!!
Thanks Lauren!
Awesome review!
As it does not have a wind filter, how does this mic go with wind noise?
Both outdoor wind and when being spoken into directly?
Thanks! It holds up fine in small/light wind, but anything strong you'd want to put it in a deadcat of some kind.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Helpful video!
Would this also be good for recording a bit far away from the person speaking? (E.g. in a 30 people classroom or more) Would this be a good option for lectures and meetings as well? Would you recommend TX 660 or UX 570 for the settings above? Thanks!
No problem! So long as you're not too far away from the subject, I think it would be fine. I like the TX 660 for its size and convenience, but the UX 570 offers a bit more (e.g. 3.5mm audio in, removable storage) if you need those features.
Hi Andrew.
How far would be too far? How far can the recorder have a clear audio on a lecture situation room.
Thankyou, would really appreciate your thoughts on this.
@@gabrielspecter5148 It has settings for meetings and lectures specifically, so I think it could easily accommodate picking up someone tens of feet away, so long as you're on the right recording scene and the person speaking is loud enough.
Amazing video.
With your settings, would you keep it the same with a wedding?
Thanks! And yes, those are the same settings I use to capture audio at weddings in a pinch.
Thanks! Very good video. Im really thinking about buying one now.
But please. I have for me important question. Can I pause the recording(like on UX570) or I always have to stop and record again?
Thanks! It does have a voice-activated recording feature that will automatically pause when it doesn't hear input. Otherwise, you would have to stop and record again.
@@andrewsaraceni thanks for the reply!
Hello! Thank you for reviewing the Sony TX660 audio recorder. I appreciate your feedback. Could you please provide instructions on how to operate the device? I am particularly interested in knowing if it supports voice activation for recording, as I want to capture memos and ideas quickly. Additionally, I would like to learn about the available methods for transferring files from the device. Lastly, I'm curious to know if it is waterproof. Thank you!
No problem! Yes the TX660 does have Voice Operated Recording (VOR) that'll start when it detects a certain sound level threshold. You'll be transferring files via the USB-C port/connection on the unit directly to your laptop, and I don't think it's fully waterproof. The online help guide is a great resource: helpguide.sony.net/icd/t66/v1/en2/index.html
Great video, Do you recommend it over the icd-ux570?
Thanks Eldar! They're different units in a few ways. If you want the most compact/efficient model, TX660 is the way to go. But if size is no issue and you need lav mic support, the UX570 is a great option too.
Hi Andrew, thanks for your review, you can hear the difference. Quick question, do you know how to remove the clip from the TX650/660, or even the TX800? Thanks.
No problem! I agree, the difference is definitely audible. When you're reviewing/playing back files, cycling through the menu there should be a Delete File or Delete All Files option (i.e. for everything in the folder).
Thanks for the reply. However that wasn't the clip I was talking about.
Sorry wasn't very clear, by "clip," I meant the literal physical clip on the back, the one you use to clip onto the shirt, clipboard, etc.
Can i pause the recording like what we do in smartphone and resume it after before saving it or i will have to end the recording and start a new one?
You would have to stop recording and start a new one.
i have buy this by last month but there is haveone problem have more treble .Pls help me advise for me fix this problem . thanks
I'd check the Scene Select setting and make sure you're on a good setting for what you're recording (or, try different ones). You may also just want to EQ the recording in post a bit to reduce treble if you think it's too high.
can you record stereo line in audio through usbc or jack?
Good question - no, it doesn't have a line-in, just the built-in microphone.
Hi, can I connect it to a audio mixer/audio system so that i can record the audio output from the mixer to TX660 using the Audio Jack or the TX660 audio jack can’t be used as audio receiver? Thx before
There's no line in on the TX660 - only a headphone jack. You could place it nearby a speaker though to capture the output.
thanks
No problem!
Does this recorder have a metal or aluminum case that it’s constructed in or is it plastic?
It's a mix of metal and plastic.
Hi, I’m looking a mic for taking voice samples for academic purposes. Does it record as .wav file and can I transfer this file into my computer and process the digital sound with software such as Praat. Thanks a lot.
Haven't used that software specifically before, but yes, it records .wav files (among other formats), and you can transfer them to your computer.
Hello, I have the tx650 and I can't connect it to my MBP M1 (Ventura) to retrieve the files in the microphone. Do you have an idea? Thanks
I remember the TX650 being picky on a couple of occasions with my Mac, usually plugging it in again (a 2nd or 3rd time) solved it. Any difference if you try it again, using different USB ports, etc.?
Andrew i just bought this but it has no limiter feature so how can i ensure it doesnt peak?
I'd adjust the Mic Sensitivity setting accordingly - either Low or Medium ,or you could give Auto a try.
Can you pause a recording and does it have voice activation? Thank you.
No voice activation, and it will automatically pause recording in VOR mode when the levels get below a certain threshold, but otherwise it's just start/stop.
Hi. I want to use the recorder as a personal use. I want to record in a car. So which one is the best between 660 and ux570?
Both would work well for that, the TX660 will be more compact/discrete if that's a factor that's important to you.
Hello i bought the recorder after your review. Can I connect via the phone to the tx660 with a blue tooth connection? How are speaking in the video into the tx660.? I don't understand, i am new.
Congrats! It doesn't have any Bluetooth connection, so you'd need to use the recorder to to record, monitor your audio, etc. I'd read up on the manual to get more familiar with it: helpguide.sony.net/icd/t66/v1/en2/index.html
@@andrewsaraceni Okay. Thanks for the link.
I am looking for something I can use to record university lessons. So something that can capture audio from far away and clearly. Even if there's a buzz. Could this be a good proposal? Or do you also have something cheaper to offer?
This would work well as a discrete option, e.g. there's Recording Scenes like Meeting, Lecture, etc. that the TX660 has for this. Other recorders with more direct microphones (e.g. Zoom H6's XY mics) would also work well, but that'd be an increase in cost, size, etc.
Is it good for long distance and hidden recording? For personal protection.
It has settings that can accommodate that (e.g. High mic sensitivity for distant/softer voices), so I would say so.
@@andrewsaraceni Thank you sir 🙏🏼
thank you
No problem!
How robust would you say the clip is? Would it stand up to daily use?
I'm thinking of getting one of these to record one on one client interactions as a way to reduce my risk in a he-said-she-said situation. I meet with multiple sales clients a day.
I like how small and discreet this unit is, but from the online photos the clip looks a bit flimsy. I would be clipping and clipping it from my shirt multiple times a day. So I'm wondering how well you think it might hold up.
Thank you in advance
Good question, the clip is actually really solid and secure. Used it a bunch, and it pretty much still operates like new.
@@andrewsaraceni great, thank you so much for answering
@@andrewsaraceniUpdate - I ended up getting one of these units, and the clip is plastic. Like you mentioned though, it seems to be made well.
I also purchased a cheaper alternative, the Philips VTR5102. It doesn't have nearly as many features or bells and whistles as the Sony, but it's only $40. The performance of the Philips is extremely good for the price. It's body and clip is metal, and the size is roughly half of the Sony.
So to anyone reading this, if you're on a tight budget, give the Philips a try at 1/3 the cost. If you want or need an upgraded option and have the money, the Sony 660 is better.
Hello there, can this device be used with an iPhone?
It's a standalone recorder, so it can't be used as a mic for your iPhone.
Is it suitable for receding lecturers in college
Large room???
If not what is recommended for this ???
Depending on where you are in the room, and how you position it, I'd say yes. It's useful for a lot of cases of grabbing audio quickly for a speaker/presenter, and being an easy to setup primary or backup audio source.
Hi
I hesitate a lot between three microphones for sound quality. between the Shure 58A, the rode reporter, and the Sony ICD-TX660
what do you recommend ?
There are different tools for different purposes. I think the Sony is an excellent handheld/pocket recorder that's great for those use cases. Audio quality won't compare to a proper dynamic mic, but a full mic setup is a lot more cumbersome to setup and manage, travel with, etc.
Thanks for the reply and the time taken. If I understood correctly, the microphone itself is better. On the other hand, it requires more time for configuration. while the Sony microphone is ideal for traveling light and not wasting time in configuration?
@@guerissez8939 Yep, I would say that's a good summary.
Thank you man
@@guerissez8939so which mic did you ended up choosing? 😂
I do like the size of this device it looks pretty easy to use especially at my age of 70yr I'm not to clever with gadgets
Yes, I would say it's pretty intuitive to use, and Sony's documentation on this and other devices is pretty comprehensive.
Hello
can you transfer audio from sony to iphone with lightning usb adapter?
I don't think that would work - you'd have to get the audio onto your computer first to transfer.
that's what I think too, but I want to try this method first to save time
@@guerissez8939 Can't hurt to try; let me know if it works.
OK, I'll get back to you when I try
I need to start recording my standup for Instagram reels. would this recorder suffice or should I go for any other similar recorders?. Also do you think it can catch audience members voice in small rooms ?
The TX660 would work well in that situation. It should capture audience members close by too, though you'll want to make sure you use the right sensitivity setting (High) for that.
what would you recommend to attach to a drone with the wind but need to be very small and pretty good quality ?
For audio? Depends on the drone, but possibly a lav mic, or something like the TX660 could work if attached securely.
@@andrewsaraceni would the sound will be decent ?
yes for audio@@andrewsaraceni
@@YTFPV Probably depends on wind noise, and the speed of the drone. You'll get something out of it, but there's a reason most drones don't include mics/audio. 🙂
I did few test in Davinci to reduce noise seem to work great so will try with the sony should work great. Thanks a lots @@andrewsaraceni
Does it allow for external mic?
No, you can only use the built-in microphone to record with this.
Is this a niche market? I’ve always just recorded on my mobile phone which was always ‘okay’ in quality.
I’m wondering if a digital voice recorder is a wise investment for personal use (recording my 97 year old grandmothers voice etc).
Definitely more of a tool for videographers or more specific use cases, but it works great as a general purpose voice recorder. But as you said, iPhone does a great job of this as well.
@@andrewsaraceni thank you x
can it record through a pocket?
If it's a shirt pocket, I would say yes. If you place it elsewhere, you'd want to test it out though.
hello andrew, does it support external mic for recording?
Hi Abrar, it does not - you have to use its internal microphone.
thank you for your kind informatin@@andrewsaraceni . Can you suggest me which one will be better sony icd ux570 or ux570F . And these are made of metal body or not?
@@abrarfahim9744 No problem. I don't think there's a big difference between the UX570/F, might be a difference in what market it's sold in? I haven't handled it, so not sure what it's made of.
Can you pause while recording?
No it's just start/stop, although when in VOR mode, it will automatically pause recording when the levels get below a certain threshold.
What does non-removable battery? When the life of the battery is dead, then device will also be dead?
It is an internal battery, but not uncommon for a mic/device of this type and size. I can say the 650's battery lasted for years without any issue for me (and so far the same with the 660).
@@andrewsaraceni Thanks Andrew!
Good luck with your channel :)
@@none4644 Thanks!
Please tell how much will it run in a single full charge ... I mean if I use it 2 record continuously for 20 days at lowest audio format settings.... Will it work or not ... Pls pls help me sir 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I've only ever used it around 2-3 hours in a day, which still left me with plenty of battery life. The battery's rated up to 12 hours which sounds about right - you'd definitely need to charge it periodically for 20 days of use.
@@andrewsaraceni thank you sir 4 your kind reply but ... I was actually saying that can I use it for non stop 15 - 20 days of recording in a single charge at lowest 8 kbps monaural recording ... Bcz the Sony ICD px 240 online specs which are available on site , says that one can record 1043 hours continuously at 8kbps monoraul from that device, can u check that from me and provide me the final answer please 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 sir please 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
@@sakuma6088 It's a max of 17 hours in the lowest quality for the TX660 - the difference of a small internal battery, vs. replaceable AAs with the PX240.
@@andrewsaraceni ok now... Sir can u tell me about any small recording device that can record continuously for 5 days or more ?
@@sakuma6088 There's different options out there, I do offer consultations 1-on-1 for these sorts of longer Q&As. 🙂
Can I use it as an MP3 player?
Haven't tested this, but you might in a pinch (if files are placed in the right format, in the right folders). But probably not an ideal solution.
Can it be used as microphone? Can it be used as mp3? Fm radio?
Not live, but yes it has a built-in microphone for recording. You could probably playback audio files on it if dropped in the right location, format, etc.
When did they introduce 660?
A little over a year ago in September.
@@andrewsaraceni thank you
I want to leave it to record for 7 days continuously will it serve the purpose? Also with good audio quality
Battery life and the overall recording time will definitely be a factor there...if you keep it plugged in, and occasionally back up the recordings, that might work. But that's a challenge for almost any recorder.
@@andrewsaraceni will it auto save recording of longer time if battery dies off?
@@Avi13031 Good question, yes the recording will save before the battery dies and the unit powers off.
@@andrewsaraceni what if the recording itself is for 160 hours?
It will save right?
@@Avi13031 It should - I believe it'll do a max of 636 hours of recording. I'd test it out to be safe first.
Can clip be removed?
No, the clip is not removable, but it doesn't take up much space if you're not using it.
The 44.1khz sample rate is sort of a deal breaker, one extra step to make it sync with everything else that records at 48khz 😩
Still not sure why they don't have wav available in 48kHz - you could select another option like mp3 though. The extra step isn't too bad when I've needed to do it.
Love the USB-C as an upgrade to my Olympus VP-10. But, I can't live with 17 hours of battery life. Very sad.
Yeah usually 17 hours is plenty for the work I do, but you can get more battery life out of it using certain recording, etc. settings in the unit over others.
@@andrewsaraceni I'm Autistic and often have people try to claim I made statements I know I didn't make. I put a lot of thought into my words because I know my brain doesn't work like other people. I have to consider what people will hear and not just what I say. I used to fall victim to the gas lighting. I used to think I was saying things I didn't realize I was saying. Now I record everything.
Can't you just charge it on the go (when idling) with power bank?
@@trym2121 maybe. I'll give it a try. I'm tired of carrying AAA batteries.
What do you think about the UX570?
Looks like a nice recorder, but I haven't tried it personally - definitely built for a different purpose compared to the TX660.
I'll wait for sony's 666 model. Good video
haha Thanks