Compact Voice Recorder

What it is

A pocket-sized digital recorder with three modes: record continuously, record at set times of day, or record only when it detects a voice. Recordings transfer by plugging it into a computer’s USB port. The device can be password protected so its contents are not readable if it is lost.

What people use it for

• Meetings you are in. Contract discussions, disputes with a supplier, a difficult conversation with a landlord or an insurer, where you want an accurate record of what was said rather than a memory of it.
• Site and field notes. Dictating observations hands-free.
• Your own safety. Keeping a record of interactions where you have a genuine concern and you are present for them.

The law in New South Wales

This device is the one with the narrowest lawful use, and you should read this before you buy it.

Under section 7 of the Surveillance Devices Act 2007 (NSW) it is an offence to install, use or maintain a listening device to record a private conversation you are not a party to, or to record one you are a party to without the consent of the other parties. The maximum penalty is five years imprisonment.

There is a narrow exception: a principal party to a conversation may record it without the others’ consent where the recording is reasonably necessary to protect that person’s lawful interests. That exception is real, but it is much narrower than people assume, and whether it applies to your situation is a question for a lawyer, not for us and not for a product page.

Separately, section 11 makes it an offence to communicate or publish a private conversation obtained through a listening device. Even a lawfully made recording can become an offence when you send it to somebody.

What you must not use it for

Do not leave this device in a room, a car or a bag to capture a conversation you are not part of. That is the single most common misuse of a recorder and it is squarely an offence under section 7. We will not supply it for that purpose.

Recording a partner’s conversations while you are not present is unlawful, the recording cannot be used, and in a family law matter it is likely to harm you far more than it helps.

If you are trying to find out what someone is doing

Use a licensed investigator. Surveillance is conducted lawfully from public places and produces evidence that is admissible, which a covert recording of a private conversation is not.

If you are worried that somebody is recording you, that is a bug sweep.

Call 1300 773 293 and we will tell you honestly which one you need.