A quick and easy way to record your gig – but is the quality good enough? Asks Chris Kennedy
Item: Alesis VideoTrack -handheld video and audio recorder
Price: US $89-140, UK £85-95
Mic Rating: 
At A Glance: Alesis’ VideoTrack is a low-cost portable video and audio recorder that is aimed at musicians and fans wanting to capture live musical performances. It features two condenser microphones to allow for stereo recording and a digital video recorder with LED light for use in low light situations.
High Notes: The device is lightweight with rubbery case to make it easy to grip. It is fitted with a rechargeable battery that can be charged via USB and recordings are stored on a SD memory card. Included with the device is a 2GB memory card that enables up to one hour of video recording, however the dive can support up to a 16GB card if you need more capacity. The unit also has a standard tripod connector screw mount on its base and headphone output for monitoring your recording.
Off Pitch: Although the audio quality is good the video recording is more akin to what you would expect from a decent mobile phone and not a dedicated video recording device. It also only supports up to 640×480, so HD video recording is out the question.
A VoiceCouncil Reviewer Says: The VideoTrack’s video recording performance is primarily what lets the unit down. When combined with a tripod it can produce reasonable results, however it struggles to cope well with fast moving action or particularly shaky hands. On the other hand, its audio recording capabilities are alone worth the asking price of the device. If used in a well lit area, it could certainly make a pretty decent YouTube video. If you want to capture live performances and you care more about the audio quality than the video quality then the Alesis VideoTrack is definitely worth considering.
Manufacturer’s Website: http://www.alesis.com/videotrack
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