Sony ICDU60-512MB Digital Voice Recorder w/ MP3 & Storage Device.

**** The Sony ICDU60-512MB Digital Voice Recorder is a mixed bag of features and performance that leaves many customers feeling frustrated, particularly with its sound quality and compatibility issues. While some users appreciate the organizational capability of recording into separate folders and the solid Construction of the device, these positives are largely overshadowed by significant drawbacks. One of the most commonly mentioned issues is the proprietary audio format used by Sony, which requires additional software to make recordings playable on standard media players. This lack of versatility hampers the usability of the recordings, especially for customers looking to share files easily. Many reviews express frustration that Sony did not choose more universally compatible formats like WAV or MP3, which are industry standards. Recording quality is another point of contention; while the device performs acceptably when in close proximity to the sound source, it struggles significantly at greater distances. Users report that attempting to record discreetly yields poor audio quality, diminishing the product's value for those needing reliable performance in various settings. Furthermore, customers have highlighted compatibility issues, particularly for Mac users, as the device and its software do not integrate well with modern operating systems. Many users express dissatisfaction with the overall user experience, stating that the design and interface feel cumbersome. This has led to a broader sentiment that the product does not live up to Sony's typically high standards. Ultimately, the general reception of the Sony ICDU60 is lukewarm at best, with many advising potential buyers to explore alternatives that offer better sound quality and user-friendly formats. **