The smartest dual function stereo recorders on the market

The Olympus WS-450S, WS-550M & WS-560M:
A brand new generation of WS stereo recorders

Hamburg, 31 March 2009 – The popular Olympus WS product line-up has been completely revamped with three sleek and stylish new recording devices. Featuring WMA playback and stereo recording mode to ensure premium audio quality, the WS-450S, WS-550M and WS-560M dual purpose voice recorders are the perfect solution for note takers and music lovers everywhere. The WS-550M and WS-560M also boast playback possibilities for MP3, WAV, and other formats. For people on the move, these high-quality devices offer long battery life and a smart new option for universal ease and convenience: a built-in USB slot which allows batteries to be recharged in the WS-550M and WS-560M. The new high-performance recorders come in a range of colours – white for the WS-450S, silver or blue for the WS-550M, and gun metal grey for the WS-560M – and will be available soon for retail prices of €79.99, €99.99 and €149.99 respectively.

To help users stay relaxed and organised when they’re out and about, these high-class dual purpose Olympus WS models function as a storage device and powerful music player all rolled into one. All three new models can play the WMA format – a popular choice for music files. The WS-550M and WS-560M also boast additional music player formats such as MP3 and WAV, and both are Digital Rights Management (DRM) compliant so that WMA files with an attached licence can be downloaded and copyright protected songs can also be enjoyed. Featuring 1, 2, or 4GB of memory respectively, the WS-450S, WS-550M and WS-560M provide increased digital space to meet soaring demands for voice recording, data storage, and high quality audio. This is equivalent to a potential 272, 544 or even more than 1000 hours of recording in LP mode, depending on the model. The new products also offer unbeatable flexibility, with a choice of six recording qualities featuring Stereo XQ for high stereo quality and LP for extended storage capacity. Such generous storage and music playback options are ideal for dynamic modern lifestyles, allowing users to travel light while they switch between business and pleasure at their convenience.

All three devices offer a voice and low cut filter to enable smooth recording in any situation or environment. Guaranteeing top-notch audio quality, the WS-550M and WS-560M also feature advanced noise cancellation technologies to filter out unwanted audio for crisp, clear recordings. Both models also feature SRS WOW XT™ audio enhancement to ensure a rich, panoramic three-dimensional experience. As with previous WS series models, the WS-450S, WS-550M and WS-560M offer an integratedHi-Speed USB connection. For added convenience, this built-in USB slot is now retractable to ensure even better handling at all times. This latest generation of WS devices unites advanced features with superior design and a more intuitive user interface. With ultra-compact dimensions measuring a mere 94.8 x 38 x 11mm, all of the new models also boast a large, backlit LCD displaying menus in five languages: English, French, German, Italian and Spanish. Handling and convenience are further improved by tactile, ergonomic buttons, which allow main controls to be identified by touch alone.

The Olympus WS-450S and WS-550M will be available from April 2009, while the WS-560M will be available from June 2009.
 
Olympus WS-450S, WS-550M & WS-560M main features:
• 1GB (WS-450S), 2GB (WS-550M) or 4GB (WS-560M) internal memory for recording up to 272, 544 and over 1000 hours, respectively (in LP mode)
• Built-in retractable Hi-Speed USB connection
• Mass storage device for data files (voice files, music, images and data)
• High-quality WMA music playback (WS-550M & WS-560M also play MP3/WAV formats)
• 6 recording qualities for voice files (Stereo XQ, Stereo HQ, Stereo SP, HQ, SP, LP)
• Large, backlit, multi-language LCD display
• Simple, menu-driven interface with five folders for file management and up to 200 files per folder
• Up to 128 music folders (WS-550M & WS-560M only)
• Variable speed playback
• Voice filter, low cut filter
• Noise filter (WS-550M & WS-560M only)
• DRM9 compatible (WS-550M & WS-560M only)
• Integrated loudspeaker
• Batteries rechargeable via USB (WS-550M & WS-560M only)
• Lightweight (46g) and pocket size (94.8 x 38 x 11mm)

WS-450S, WS-550M & WS-560M delivery content:
• WS-450S, WS-550M or WS-560M
• Stereo earphones
• USB extension cable (WS-550M & WS-560M only)
• Rechargeable Ni-MH battery (WS-550M & WS-560M only)
• Alkaline battery (WS-450S only)
• Instruction manual
• Case (WS-560M only)
 
Optional accessories for WS-450S, WS-550M & WS-560M:
• KA-333 record cable
• ME 12 plug-in microphone
• ME 15 tiny tie-clip microphone
• ME 51S plug-in microphone for high quality stereo recordings
• TP 7 telephone pick-up
• BC-400 Ni-MH quick battery charger
• BR 401 rechargeable Ni-MH batteries

For questions or additional information, please contact:

Myriam Held
Olympus Europa Holding GmbH
Tel.: +49-40-237 73-5867
Email: myriam.held@olympus-europa.com