DIGITAL VOICE

RECORDER

DETAILED
INSTRUCTIONS
Thank you for purchasing an Olympus
Digital Voice Recorder.
Please read these instructions for information
about using the product correctly and safely.
Keep the instructions handy for future reference.

To ensure successful recordings, we recommend that

you test the record function and volume before use.
EN
 Introduction
• The contents of this document may be changed in the future without advanced notice.
Contact our Customer Support Center for the latest information relating to product names
and model numbers.
• The utmost care has been taken to ensure the integrity of the contents of this document. In
the unlikely event that a questionable item, error, or omission is found, please contact our
Customer Support Center.
• Any liability for passive damages or damage of any kind occurred due to data loss incurred
by a defect of the product, repair performed by the third party other than Olympus or an
Olympus authorized service station, or any other reason is excluded.
Trademarks and registered trademarks

• IBM and PC/AT are the trademarks or registered trademarks of International Business
Machines Corporation.
• Microsoft, Windows and Windows Media are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation.
• Macintosh and iTunes are the trademarks of Apple Inc.
• MPEG Layer-3 audio coding technology licensed from Fraunhofer IIS and Thomson.
• SRS WOW XT, SRS and } symbol are trademarks of SRS Labs, Inc.
• SRS WOW XT technology is incorporated under license from SRS Labs, Inc.
• The product was developed based on noise-canceling technology under license from NEC
Corporation.
Other product and brand names mentioned herein may be the trademarks or registered
trademarks of their respective owners.

2
Table of contents
Introduction
Safe and proper usage .............................. 4
1 Getting Started
Main features........................................... 6
Identification of parts .............................. 7
Display (LCD panel) ........................................ 8
Power supply ......................................... 10
Inserting batteries ........................................10
Charging by connecting to a computer via
USB ..........................................................12
Turning on/off the power ..............................13
HOLD ...................................................... 14
Setting time and date [Time & Date] ....... 15
Changing the time and date..........................16
[VOICE] mode and [MUSIC] mode
..........................................................17
Notes on the folders ............................... 18
About the folders for voice recordings ..........18
About the folder for music playback .............19
Selecting the folders and files ................ 20
2 About Recording
Recording .............................................. 21
Microphone sensitivity ................................ 23
Recommended settings by
recording condition .................................24
Recording from external microphone or
other devices........................................... 25
3 About Playback
Playback ................................................ 27
Setting an index mark or a temp mark .........31
How to begin segment repeat playback ...... 32
Erasing................................................... 34
4 Menu Setting
Menu setting method ............................. 36
+ File Menu ................................................. 38
, Rec Menu ................................................. 38
- Play Menu ................................................ 40
. LCD/Sound Menu ..................................... 43
/ Device Menu ............................................ 44
Rearranging files [Replace] .......................... 45
1
Formatting the recorder [Format] ............... 46
2
5 Using the Recorder on Your PC
Operating environment.......................... 48
Connecting to your PC............................. 50 3
Disconnecting from your PC ......................... 51
Transfer the voice files to your PC............ 52 4
Using Windows Media Player .................. 53
Window names ............................................ 53
Copying music from CD ................................ 54 5
Transferring music file to the recorder......... 55
Copying voice file to the CD .......................... 58 6
Using iTunes ........................................... 60
Window names ............................................ 60
Copying music from CD .................................61
Transferring music file to the recorder......... 62
Copying voice file to the CD .......................... 63
Using as external memory of the PC ........ 64
6 Other Information
Alarm message list ................................. 65
Troubleshooting..................................... 66
Technical assistance and support ............ 68
Accessories (optional) ............................. 68
Specifications ........................................ 69
3
 Safe and proper usage
Before using your new recorder, read this
manual carefully to ensure that you know
how to operate it safely and correctly.
Keep this manual in an easily accessible
location for future reference.
• The warning symbols indicate important
safety related information. To protect
yourself and others from personal injury or
damage to property, it is essential that you
always read the warnings and information
provided.
General Precautions
• Do not leave the recorder in hot,
humid locations such as inside a
closed automobile under direct
sunlight or on the beach in the
summer.
• Do not store the recorder in
places exposed to excessive
moisture or dust.
• Do not use organic solvents such
as alcohol and lacquer thinner to
clean the unit.
• Do not place the recorder on top
of or near electric appliances such
as TVs or refrigerators.
• Avoid recording or playing back
near cellular phones or other
wireless equipment, as they may
cause interference and noise.
If you experience noise, move
to another place, or move the
recorder further away from such
equipment.
• Avoid sand or dirt. These can
cause irreparable damage.
• Avoid strong vibrations or
shocks.
• Do not disassemble, repair or
modify the unit yourself.
4
• Do not operate the unit while
operating a vehicle (such as a
bicycle, motorcycle, or go-cart).
• Keep the unit out of the reach of
children.
<Warning regarding data loss>
Recorded content in memory may
be destroyed or erased by operating
mistakes, unit malfunction, or during
repair work.
It is recommended to back up and save
important content to other media such as
a computer hard disk.
Any liability for passive damages or
damage of any kind occurred due to data
loss incurred by a defect of the product,
repair performed by the third party other
than Olympus or an Olympus authorized
service station, or any other reasons is
excluded from the Olympus’s liability.
Batterries
f Danger:
• Batteries should never be
exposed to flame, heated, short-
circuited or disassembled.
• Never store batteries where
they will be exposed to direct
sunlight, or subjected to high
temperatures in a hot vehicle,
near a heat source, etc.
f Warning:
• Do not solder lead wires or
terminals directly onto a battery
or modify it.
• Do not connect the = and
- terminals together. This may
cause fire, overheating or electric
shock.

• When carrying or storing the
batteries, be sure to put it in
the provided case to protect its
terminals. Do not carry or store
the batteries with any metal
objects (such as key rings).
If this warning is not followed,
fire, overheating or electric shock
may occur.
• Do not connect the batteries
directly to a power outlet
or a cigarette lighter of an
automobile.
• Do not insert the batteries with
their = and - terminals reversed.
• If any liquid from a battery gets
into your eyes, promptly wash it
off with clean water and consult
your doctor at once.
• Do not attempt to recharge
alkaline, lithium or any other
non-rechargeable batteries.
• Never use any batteries with a
torn or cracked outer cover.
• Keep batteries out of the reach of
children.
• If you notice anything unusual
when using this product such as
abnormal noise, heat, smoke, or a
burning odor:
1 remove the batteries immediately
while being careful not to burn
yourself, and;
2 call your dealer or local Olympus
representative for service.
• Do not expose the batteries to
water. Do not allow water to
contact the terminals.
• Do not remove or damage the
batteries insulating sheet.
Safe and proper usage
• Do not use the batteries if you
find something wrong with them
such as leakage, color change or
deformity.
• Unplug the charger if the
charging is still incomplete after
the specified time it should take.
• Should any batteries liquid get on
skin or clothing, promptly wash it
off with clean water.
• Keep batteries away from fire.
f Caution:
• Do not subject batteries to strong
shocks.
• When using rechargeable
batteries that have not been used
for a while, be sure to recharge
them before use.
• Rechargeable batteries have
limited lifetime. When the
operating time becomes shorter
even if the rechargeable battery
is fully charged under the
specified condition, replace it
with a new one.
5
 Getting Started
Main features
s Dual function recorder as a
Digital Voice Recorder and a
Digital Music Player (☞ P.17).
s The recorder stores highly
1 compressed WMA (Windows
Media Audio) format voice
messages in integrated flash
Main features
s You can change the playback
equalizer settings (☞ P. 36, P. 41).
s Connecting this recorder directly
to the USB port links up with your
PC. The data can be transferred or
saved without USB cable or driver
software (☞ P. 50).

memory (☞ P. 21). It can also This recorder is compatible with USB 2.0,
play back MP3* (MPEG-1/MPEG-2 enabling fast data transfer to a computer.
Audio Layer-3) and WAV* format s This USB storage class support
files (☞ P. 27, P.53, P.60). recorder can be utilized as
* For WS-560M, WS-550M only. external memory to read and
s It has a built-in Variable Control save the data (☞ P. 64).
Voice Actuator (VCVA) function By connecting the computer with the
(☞ P. 36, P. 39). USB, pictures, text data, etc. can be
saved, and utilized to carry data.
s The Low Cut Filter minimizes
air conditioner noise and other s It has a USB charging function
similar noises while recording (☞ P.12).
(☞ P. 36, P. 39).
s A Noise Cancel function (☞ P. 36,
P. 40) and a Voice Filter function
(☞ P. 36, P. 40) cut noise and
enable clear audio playback.
s You can choose one of three
stereo or three monaural
recording modes (☞ P. 36, P. 38).
s It has a backlight full-dot display
(LCD panel) (☞ P. 8).
s It features various repeat
functions (☞ P. 32, P. 36, P. 41).
s Index mark and temp mark
features allow you to quickly find
desired locations (☞ P. 31).
s The playback speed can be
controlled as preferred (☞ P. 36,
P. 42).
s It has built-in SRS WOW XT
(☞ P. 36, P. 40).
6
Identification of parts
1
2
3
4
8
5 (
0
1
*
6

Identification of parts
& !
^ @ )
% # -
$
=
9
7 q

1 EAR (Earphone) jack # MENU button

2 MIC (Microphone) jack $ – button
3 Built-in stereo microphone (L) % INDEX/ERASE button
4 Built-in stereo microphone (R) ^ OK ` button
5 Recording indicator light & 0 button
6 LIST button * STOP4 button
7 Strap hole ( Battery cover
8 Display (LCD panel) ) HOLD switch
9 Built-in speaker - Mode (VOICE/MUSIC) switch*
0 + button MIC SENSE CONF/DICT switch**
! RECs (Record) button = USB connector slide lever
@ 9 button q USB connector
* For WS-560M, WS-550M only.
** For WS-450S only.

7
 Identification of parts

Display (LCD panel)

Folder list display " For WS-450S:
" For WS-560M/WS-550M: 1

When [VOICE] mode is selected:

1 2
1
Identification of parts

2
1 [VOICE] mode indicator
Record/ Playback status indicator
Battery indicator
2 Folder name
When [MUSIC] mode is selected:
File list display
3
4 " For WS-560M/WS-550M:
When [VOICE] mode is selected:

2
1 [VOICE] mode indicator
Record/ Playback status indicator
Battery indicator
2 Folder name
3 [MUSIC] mode indicator
When [MUSIC] mode is selected:
Record/ Playback status indicator
Battery indicator 3
4 Folder name
4

8
 Identification of parts

1 Folder name When [MUSIC] mode is selected:

Record/ Playback status indicator
Battery indicator
%
2 File name 0
3 Folder name !
Record/ Playback status indicator @
Battery indicator
4 File name
# ^ 1
$ &

Identification of parts
" For WS-450S: " For WS-450S:
1 1
2
6
2 3
7
8
4
5 9

1 Folder name 1 File name

Record/ Playback status indicator Record/ Playback status indicator
Battery indicator Battery indicator
2 File name 2 Folder indicator
Recording mode indicator
3 During recording mode:
File display Remaining memory bar indicator
During playback mode:
" For WS-560M/WS-550M: Playback position bar indicator
4 Recording date and time
When [VOICE] mode is selected: 5 [?] Microphone Sensitivity
indicator
1 [!] VCVA indicator
2 [%] Noise Cancel indicator
6 [$] Voice Filter indicator
3
7 [0] Low Cut Filter indicator
8 6 Current file number/ Total
4 number of recorded files in the
5 9 folder

9
 Identification of parts Power supply
7 During recording mode: Inserting batteries
Elapsed recording time
During playback mode: This recorder can be used with either Ni-MH
Rechargeable Batteries or AAA Alkaline
Elapsed playback time Batteries.
8 During recording mode:
Remaining recording time 1 Lightly press down on the arrow
During playback or stop mode: and slide the battery cover open.
1 File length
9 Playback mode indicator
Identification of parts/Power supply

0 Title name
! Artist name
@ Album name
# Elapsed playback time
$ [#] SRS WOW XT indicator
["] Equalizer indicator
% Current file number/ Total
number of recorded files in the 2 Insert size-AAA alkaline battery,
folder observing the correct = and
^ File length - polarities.
& Playback mode indicator

" For WS-560M/WS-550M:

• When charging with the recorder,
be sure to use the supplied
specified Ni-MH rechargeable
(BR401) batteries.
• The supplied rechargeable
batteries are not fully charged.
Before using the unit or after
long periods of disuse, it
is recommended that you
continuously charge them until
full (☞ P.12).
10

" For WS-450S:
• This recorder cannot charge
rechargeable batteries.
3 Close the battery cover
completely by pressing to the
direction A, then sliding to the
direction B.
• If the “hour” indicator flashes in the
display, see “Setting time and date
[Time & Date]” (☞ P.15).
Battery indicator
The battery indicator on the display changes
as the batteries loose power.
8{9{:
• When [:] appears on the display, replace
the batteries as soon as possible. When
the batteries are too weak, [ ] and
[Battery Low] appears on the display and
the recorder shuts down.
Notes
• Manganese batteries may not be used in
this recorder.
• When changing batteries, AAA alkaline
batteries or Olympus Ni-MH rechargeable
batteries are recommended.
Power supply
• Be sure to stop the recorder before
replacing the batteries. Unloading the
batteries while the recorder is in use may
cause a malfunction such as corrupting
the file, etc. If you are recording into a file
and the batteries run out, you will loose
your currently recorded file because the
file header will not be able to close. It is
crucial to change the batteries once you 1
see only one Hash mark in the battery
indicator.
Power supply
• If it takes longer than 1 minute to replace
the dead batteries or if you take the
batteries in and out repeatedly at short
intervals, you may have to reset the time
when you have loaded fresh batteries
(☞ P.15).
• Remove the batteries if you are not going
to use the recorder for an extended period
of time.
• When playing a voice/music file, the
recorder may be reset due to the
reduction of the voltage output of the
batteries depending on the volume level
even if [8] is displayed in the battery
indicator. In this case, lower the volume of
the recorder.
• When replacing rechargeable batteries, be
sure to use Ni-MH rechargeable batteries
(optional). The use of other manufacturers'
products can damage the recorder and
should be avoided.
11
 Power supply

Charging by connecting to a 3 While pressing the STOP 4

computer via USB button, connect to the PC’s USB
port.

" For WS-560M/WS-550M:

You can charge the batteries by connecting
1 to a PC's USB port. When charging, be sure
to correctly place the rechargeable batteries
Power supply

(supplied) into the recorder (☞ P.10).

Do not charge the primary batteries

such as alkaline or lithium batteries.
It may cause battery leakage heating
and recorder malfunction.

1 Boot the PC.

2 Slide the USB connector slide
lever in the direction indicated
by the arrow to eject the USB
connector out of the recorder.

• When charging the battery, press

and hold the STOP 4 button until
[Please Wait] is displayed.
4 Charging is completed when
battery indication becomes to [<].
Charging time: approximately 3 hours *
* It shows the approximate time when
charging the rechargeable battery
fully from no remaining power at the
room temperature. The charging time
will be changed depending on the
remaining amount and the state of
batteries.

Notes
• The recorder cannot be charged when the
PC is not turned on. Also, it may not be
charged when the PC is in standby mode,
stop mode and sleep mode.
12

• Do not charge the recorder with the USB
hub connected.
• If [Cannot charge] is displayed, it means
that a battery that cannot be charged is
in the recorder. Replace the batteries with
supplied ones at once (☞ P. 10).
• You cannot charge when [;]* or [=]**
blinks. Charge the batteries at the
temperature from 5°C to 35°C (41°F to 95°F).
* [;]: When surrounding temperature is
low.
** [=]: When surrounding temperature is
high.
• When using time becomes notably short
even after the batteries are fully charged,
replace them with new ones.
• Be sure to push the USB connector all the
way in. Otherwise, the recorder may not
operate properly.
• Use the supplied USB extension cable
depending on situations.
• Do not use USB extension cables other
than the supplied cable.
Using cables from other manufacturers
could result in damage to the recorder. Do
not use the supplied USB extension cable
with devices from other manufacturers.
Cautions concerning the rechargeable batteries
Read the following descriptions carefully
when you use the Ni-MH rechargeable
batteries.
Discharging:
The rechargeable batteries self-discharge
while this is not in use. Be sure to charge
them regularly before use.
Operating temperature:
The rechargeable batteries are chemical
products. The rechargeable batteries
efficiency may fluctuate even when
operating within the recommended
temperature range. This is an inherent
nature of such products.
Power supply
Recommended temperature range:
When operating appliance:
0°C - 42°C/ 32°F - 107.6°F
Charging:
5°C - 35°C/ 41°F - 95°F
Storage for a long period:
–20°C - 30°C/ –4°F - 86°F
Using the rechargeable batteries outside
the above temperature range may result in
1
declining efficiency and shorter battery life.
Power supply
In order to prevent battery leakage or rust,
remove the rechargeable batteries from the
products when you will not be using them
for a long time, and store them separately.
Notes
• This recorder is designed to fully charge
batteries regardless of their energy level.
However, for best results when charging
newly purchased rechargeable batteries
or batteries that have not been used for
a long time (more than one month), It is
recommended to fully charge the batteries
then discharge repeatedly for 2 to 3 times.
• When disposing rechargeable batteries,
always observe the local laws and
regulations. Contact you local recycling
center for proper disposal methods.
• If Ni-MH rechargeable batteries are not
fully discharged, protect against short-
circuiting (e.g. by taping the contacts)
before disposing.
For customers in Germany:
Olympus has a contract with the GRS (Joint
Battery Disposal Association) in Germany to
ensure environmentally friendly disposal.
Turning on/off the power
When the recorder is not being used,
turn the power off to reduce battery
consumption to a minimum. Even if
the power is turned off, existing data,
mode settings, and clock settings will be
maintained.
13
 Power supply HOLD
Turning on the power If you bring the recorder is set to HOLD
mode, the running conditions will be
Slide the HOLD switch in the preserved, and all buttons will be disabled.
opposite direction that indicated by This feature is useful when the recorder has
to be carried in a bag or pocket.
the arrow.
Set the recorder to HOLD mode

1 While the recorder is during stop

mode, slide the HOLD switch in the
Power supply/HOLD

direction indicated by the arrow.

• The display will turn on, and the power will

be turned on.
• The resume function will bring the
recorder back to the stop position in
memory before power was turned off.
• After [Hold] appears on the display, the
Turning off the power
recorder is set to HOLD mode.
While the recorder is during stop Exit HOLD mode
mode, slide the HOLD switch in the
direction indicated by the arrow. Slide the HOLD switch in the
• The display shuts off, and the power will opposite direction that indicated by
be turned off. the arrow.
• The resume function remembers the stop
position before the power is turned off.
Power save mode

If the recorder is stopped/not used for over

5 minutes after it is turned on, it goes into
standby (power-save) mode, and the display
shuts off.
• To exit standby mode and turn on the
display, press any button.

Notes
• If you press any button in HOLD mode, the
clock display flashes for 2 seconds, but it
will not operate the recorder.
14
 HOLD/Setting time and date [Time & Date]
• If HOLD is applied during playback
(recording), operation is disabled with
the playback (recording) state unchanged
(When playback has ended and the
recording has ended due to the remaining
memory being used up, it will stop).
Setting time and date
[Time & Date]
If you set the time and date beforehand,
the information when the file is recorded is
automatically stored for each file. Setting
the time and date beforehand enables easier
file management.
When you use the recorder for the
first time after purchasing it, or when
the batteries have been inserted
without the device having been
used in a long time, the [Set Time &
Date] will appear. When the “hour”
is flashing, conduct the setup from
Step 1.
LIST button
+− button
9 0 button
OK ` button
1 Press the 9 or 0 button to
select the item to set.
• Select the item from the “hour”,
“minute”, “year”, “month” and “day”
with a flashing point.
1
HOLD/Setting time and date
2 Press the + or − button to set.
• Follow the same steps by pressing the
9 or 0 button to select the next
item, and press the + or − button to
set.
• You can select between 12 and 24
hour display by pressing the LIST
button while setting the hour and
minute.
Example: 10:38 P.M
10:38 PM 22:38
(Initial setting)
• You can select the order of the
“month”, “day” and “year” by
pressing the LIST button while
setting them.
Example: April 15, 2009
4M 15D 2009Y (Initial setting)
15D 4M 2009Y
2009Y 4M 15D
3 Press the OK ` button to
complete the setting.
15
 Setting time and date [Time & Date]
• The clock will start from the set date
and time. Press the OK ` button
according to the time signal.
1
Setting time and date
Note
• If you press the OK ` button during the
setup operation, the recorder will save the
items that were set to that point.
Changing the time and date
While the recorder is during stop mode,
press and hold the STOP 4 button to display
the [Time & Date], and [Remain]. If the
current time and date is not correct, set it
using the procedure below.
+− button
9 button
OK `button
MENU button
1 While the recorder is during stop
mode, press the MENU button.
• The menu will appear on the display
(☞ P.36).
16
2 Press the + or − button to select
[Device Menu] tab.
• You can change the menu display by
moving the settings tab cursor.
3 Press the OK ` or 9 button to
move the cursor to the item to
set.
• [Device Menu] will appear on the
display.
4 Press the OK ` or 9 button.
• [Time & Date] will appear on the
display.
• The “hour” will flash on the display,
indicating the start of the Time and
Date setup process.
The following steps are the same as Step 1
through Step 3 of “Setting time and date
[Time & Date]” (☞ P.15).
5 Press the MENU button to close
the menu screen.
[VOICE] mode and [MUSIC] mode
[MUSIC] mode:
" For WS-560M/WS-550M:
Slide the mode switch to [MUSIC]
This device can be used as a voice recorder position.
or as a music player. For recording and
playback voice recordings, set the mode
switch to [VOICE]. For listening to music, set
the mode switch to [MUSIC]. 1
[VOICE] mode:

[VOICE] mode and [MUSIC] mode

Slide the mode switch to [VOICE]
position.

• The recorder functions as a music

player. See “About the folder for music
playback” for transferring music files to
the recorder using Windows Media Player
(☞ P.19).

• This recorder functions as an IC recorder.

See “About the folders for voice
recordings” regarding the destination of
saved files (☞ P.18).

17
 Notes on the folders
The voice files and the music files are separated into folders for voice recordings and folders
for music playback that are organized in a branching tree-style and saved.

About the folders for voice recordings

[Folder A] - [Folder E] are the folders for voice recordings. When recording with the recorder,
select any one of the five folders and then record.

1
Recorder Folder A 001
Notes on the folders

Folder B 002

003
Folder C
004
Folder D

Folder Folder E
200

Each folder can store up to 200

File files.

File names will be automatically created for files recorded by this recorder.

WS55 0001 .WMA 1 User ID:

The user ID name that has been set on the Digital
Voice Recorder.
1 2 3 2 File number:
A serial number automatically assigned by a
Digital Voice Recorder.
3 Extension:
These are the file name extensions for the
recording format when recording with this device.
• WMA format .WMA
18
 Notes on the folders

" For WS-560M/WS-550M:

About the folder for music playback

When transferring music files to the device using Windows Media Player, a folder is
automatically created within the music playback folder which has a layered structure as
shown in the diagram below. Music files that are in the same folder can be rearranged in
preferential order and replayed (☞ P.45).
1

Notes on the folders

Music
First layer Second layer

Music Artist 01 Album 01 001

002
Artist 02 Album 02
003

Artist 03 Album 03 004

200

Each folder can store

up to 200 files.

Up to 128 folders can be created under the

[Music] folder, including [Music].
Precautions for transferring
music files:
When using Windows Media Player 10,
click [Start Sync] instead of setting the
synchronization options. All the files
will be transferred to the part A above
(☞ P.57). Folder
File
19
 Selecting the folders and files
Change folders while the operation is stopped or played back. For information on the layered
structure of the folders, see the section entitled “Notes on the folders” (☞ P.18, P.19).

Operation of the folders for music playbacks:

" For WS-560M/WS-550M:

1
Folder list display Folder list display
Folder list display File list display
Selecting the folders and files

(First layer) (Second layer)

Operation of the folders for voice recordings:

Folder list display File list display File display

File display

Moving through the levels

File display
LIST button OK `button
Information of the selected
file is displayed. Enters in
Return Proceed playback standby mode.

Each time you press this it
returns up one level. The list
display can be operated by the
0 button.
When you press and hold the
LIST button while moving in
a hierarchy of folders, it will
return to the file display.
20
Each time you press this it
opens the folder or file selected
in the list display and proceeds
down one level.
The list display screen can be List display
operated by the 9 button.
The folders and files
+ or − button recorded in this recorder are
displayed.
Select the folder or file.
 About Recording
Recording
Before starting recording, select a folder
between [&] to [*]. These five folders can
be selectively used to distinguish the kind
of recording; for example, Folder [&] might
be used to store private information, while
Folder ['] might be dedicated to holding
business information.
STOP 4 button
REC s button
" For WS-560M/WS-550M:
• If the RECs button is pressed
while the mode switch is set
to [MUSIC], [Music Mode] will
flash on the display. Set the
mode switch to [VOICE] before
recording (☞ P.17).
1 Select the recording folder
(☞ P.18 to P.20).
How to change folders:
1 Pressing the LIST button at the file
display while stopped will return you
to the next higher level. Pressing the
LIST button repeatedly will bring you
to the folder list display.
2 Pressing button + or − at the folder
list display will select the folders for
voice recordings.
• Newly recorded audio will be saved as
the last file in the selected folder.
2 Press the RECs button to start
recording.
• The recording indicator light glows
and [7] will appear on the display.
• Turn the microphone in the direction
of the source to be recorded.
a
b
c 2
d
e
Recording
a Recording mode
b Remaining memory bar indicator
c Remaining recording time
d Elapsed recording time
e Level meter (change according to the
recording level and recording function
settings)
• [Rec Mode] cannot be changed in
the recording standby mode or while
recording. Configure this while the
recorder is stopped (☞ P.36, P.38).
3 Press the STOP4 button to stop
recording.
• [4] will appear on the display.
f
f File length
21
 Recording

Notes To quickly check on the recorded contents

• To ensure recording from the beginning,
start speaking after you see the recording While the recorder is during
indicator light on. recording mode, press the OK `
• When remaining recording time is less button.
than 60 seconds, the recording indicator
light starts flashing. When the recording
time is decreasing to 30 or 10 seconds, the
light flashes faster.
• [Folder Full] will appear when the recording
cannot be made any further. Select on other
2 folder or delete any unnecessary files before
recording (☞ P.34).
Recording

• [Memory Full] will appear when the

memory is full. Delete any unnecessary • [6] will appear on the display.
files before recording any further (☞ P.34). • Stop recording and the file that was just
recorded will be played back.
Pause

While the recorder is during Listening while audio is recorded

recording mode, press the RECs If you start recording after inserting the
button. earphone into the EAR jack on the recorder,
you can hear the sound being recorded. The
recording monitor volume can be adjusted
by pressing the + or − button.
Connect the earphone to the EAR
jack on the recorder.

To EAR jack
• [5] will appear on the display.
• The recorder will time out after 60 minutes
when left in “Rec Pause”.
Resume Recording:
Press the RECs button again.
• Recording will resume at the point of
interruption.
• After recording has started, you can hear
the sound being recorded through the
earphone.

22
 Recording

Notes Microphone sensitivity

• Recording level cannot be controlled
using the volume button. Microphone sensitivity is adjustable to meet
• When using the earphones, do NOT set the recording needs.
volume too high. Listening at very high
volume may lead to hearing loss.
• Do not place earphones near a " For WS-560M/WS-550M:
microphone as this may cause feedback. • Set the microphone sensitivity
• When the external speaker is connected function using the menu display
while recording, there is a risk that audio (☞ P.36 P.38).
feedback will occur.
2
" For WS-450S:

Recording
Slide the MIC SENSE CONF/DICT
switch to select [CONF] or
[DICT].

[CONF]:
This is a highly sensitive mode which
can record surrounding noises.
[DICT]:
This is the standard level of
microphone sensitivity. Select this
mode for cases where the volume of
the source sound is high, such as a
band performance.

Note
• When you would like to clearly record
a speaker’s voice, set the MIC SENSE
CONF/DICT switch to [DICT] and
hold the recorder’s built-in stereo
microphone close to the speaker’s
mouth (5-10 cm) before recording.
23
 Recording

Recommended settings by recording condition

The recorder is initially set to the [ST XQ] mode so that you can make high quality stereo
recordings immediately after purchasing it. The various functions relating to recording can
be configured in detail to suit the recording conditions.

Recommended settings
Recording
condition Recording Microphone Sensitivity Low Cut Filter
Mode (☞ P.36, P.38) (☞ P.23 or P.36, P.38) (☞ P.36, P.39)

2 Conferences with
large crowds and
[ST XQ]
Recording

lectures in large
rooms. [CONF]
or
Meetings and [Conference]
[ST XQ]
business negotia- [On]
[ST HQ]
tions with a small
[HQ]
number of people.
Dictation with a [ST XQ] [DICT]
lot of background [ST HQ] or
noise. [HQ] [Dictation]
Music playing, Set the microphone
wild birds singing, sensitivity according
[ST XQ] [Off]
and to the volume being
railway sounds. recorded.
Dictation in a
There is no particular recommendation. Choose a setting
quiet environ-
for recording.
ment.

24
 Recording

Recording from external microphone Tie clip microphone (omni-directional):

or other devices
The external microphone and other devices
can be connected and the sound can be
recorded. Connect as follows by the device
to be used.
• Do not plug and unplug devices into the
recorder’s jack while it is recording.
Recording with external
microphone:
Connect an external microphone to
ME15
Small concealing microphone with a
tie-clip.
Telephone pickup: TP7
Earphone type microphone can be
plugged into your ear while phoning.
The voice or conversation over the
phone can be clearly recorded.
2
Notes

Recording
the MIC jack of the recorder. • The built-in microphone will become
inoperable when an external microphone
is plugged into the recorder’s MIC jack.
• Microphones supported by plug-in power
can also be used.
• When the external stereo microphone is
To MIC jack
used while [Rec Mode] is set to a monaural
recording mode, audio will be recorded to
the L channel only (☞ P.36, P.38).
• When an external monaural microphone
is used while [Rec Mode] is set to a stereo
recording mode, it enables recording
only with the L channel microphone
(☞ P.36, P.38).

Applicable external microphones

(optional) (☞ P.68)
Stereo microphone: ME51S
The built-in large-diameter microphone
enables sensitive stereo recording.
2 channel microphone (omni-
directional): ME30W
These are highly sensitive omni-
directional microphones supported by
plug-in power which are well-suited to
recording musical performances.
Highly sensitive noise-cancellation
monaural microphone
(unidirectional): ME52W
This microphone is used to record
sound at a distance while minimizing
surrounding noise. 25

Recording the sound of other
devices with this recorder:
The sound can be recorded when
connecting to the audio output terminal
(earphone jack) of the other device, and the
MIC jack of the recorder with the connecting
cord KA333 (optional) for dubbing.
To audio output
To MIC terminal of other
2 jack devices
Recording
Note
• The detailed input levels cannot be
adjusted with this recorder. When external
devices are connected, perform a test
recording and then adjust the output level
for the external devices.
26
Recording
Recording the sound of this
recorder with other devices:
The sound of this recorder can be recorded
to other devices when connected to the
audio input terminal (microphone jack)
of other devices and the EAR jack of this
recorder, with the connecting cord KA333
(optional) for dubbing.
To EAR
jack
To audio input
terminal of
other devices
Note
• When you adjust the various sound
quality settings related to playback on
the recorder, the audio output signal sent
out from the EAR jack will change as well
(☞ P.36, P.40, P.41).
 About Playback
Playback
The recorder can playback WAV*, MP3*
and WMA format files. To playback a file
recorded with other machines, you need to
transfer (copy) it from a computer.
* For WS-560M, WS-550M only.
STOP 4 button
+− button
OK ` button
" For WS-560M/WS-550M:
• When playing back files
transferred from a PC, set the
mode switch according to the
folder type (☞ P.17).
• When playing back files recorded
on the recorder, set the mode
switch to [VOICE] (☞ P.17).
1 Select the folder which contains
the files to be played back (☞ P.18
to P.20).
How to change folders:
1 Pressing the LIST button at the file
display during playback or while
stopped will return you to the next
higher level. Pressing the LIST button
repeatedly will bring you to the folder
list display.
2 Pressing button + or − at the folder
list display will select the folders for
voice recordings and press the OK `
or 9 button.
2 In the File list display, press the +
or − button to select the file that
you want to playback.
• In the File display, press the 9 or
0 button to select a file.
3 Press the OK ` button to start
playback.
• [6] will appear on the display.
a
b
c 3
d
e
Playback
a
b
File name
Folder indicator
c Playback position bar indicator
d Elapsed playback time
e File length
4 Press the + or − button to adjust
to a comfortable listening
volume.
• The volume can be adjusted within a
range from [00] to [30].
5 Press the STOP 4 button at
any point you want to stop the
playback.
• [4] will appear on the display.
• This will stop the file being played
back midway. When the resume
function is activated the stopped
location will be registered, even if the
power is turned off. The next time the
power is turned on, playback may be
resumed from the registered stopped
location.
27

Forwarding
While the recorder is during stop
mode in the file display, press and
hold the 9 button.
3 beginning of the file. Continue pressing
• [3] will appear on the display.
Playback
• If you release the 9 button, it will stop.
Press the OK ` button to start playback
from where it was stopped.
While the recorder is during
playback mode, press and hold the
9 button.
• When you release the 9 button the
recorder will resume normal playback.
• If there is an index mark or temp mark in
the middle of the file, the recorder will
stop at that location (☞ P. 31).
• The recorder stops when it reaches the
end of the file. Continue pressing the 9
button to proceed with the cue from the
beginning of the next file.
Rewinding
While the recorder is during stop
mode in the file display, press and
hold the 0 button.
28
Playback
• [4] will appear on the display.
• If you release the 0 button, it will stop.
Press the OK ` button to start playback
from where it was stopped.
While the recorder is during
playback mode, press and hold the
0 button.
• When you release the 0 button the
recorder will resume normal playback
• If there is an index mark or temp mark in
the middle of the file, the recorder will
stop at that location (☞ P. 31).
• The recorder stops when it reaches the
the 0 button to proceed with the
review from the end of the previous file.
Locating the beginning of the file
While the recorder is during stop
mode or playback mode, press the
9 button.
• The recorder skips to the beginning of the
next file.
While the recorder is during
playback mode, press the 0
button.
• The recorder skips to the beginning of the
current file.
While the recorder is during stop
mode, press the 0 button.
• The recorder skips to the beginning of
the previous file. If the recorder stop the
midway of the file, return to the beginning
of the file.
 Playback

While the recorder is during Settings relating to playback

playback mode, press the 0
button twice.
• The recorder skips to the beginning of the
" For WS-560M/WS-550M:
previous file.
This function enables
Segment repeat
Notes repeated playback of part of
(☞ P.32)
the file being played.
• When you skip to the beginning of the file
during playback, the recorder will stop at This changes the order of the
the position of the index mark and temp files in the selected folder. It
[Replace]
is useful for playing back files
mark. The index mark and temp mark (☞ P.45)
in a preferred order while in
will be skipped when you perform the normal playback mode etc.
operation in stop mode (☞ P. 31).
• When [Skip Space] set to other than If recorded audio is difficult
to understand because of
3
[File Skip], the recorder will skip forward/ [Noise Cancel]*
noisy surroundings, adjust

Playback
reverse the specified time, then will start (☞ P.36, P.40)
the Noise Cancel setting
playback (☞ P. 36, P. 43). level.

Playback through earphone The recorder has a Voice

Filter Function to cut low
[Voice Filter]* and high frequency tones
An earphone can be connected to the EAR (☞ P.36, P.40) during normal, fast, or slow
jack of the recorder for listening. playback, and enable clear
audio playback.
The recorder has
SRS WOW XT, an audio
[WOW]**
processing technology that
(☞ P.36, P.40)
increases sound clarity and
bass quality.
To EAR
jack If you change the equalizer
[Equalizer]** setting, you can enjoy the
(☞ P.36, P.41) music with your favorite
sound quality.
You can select the playback
• When the earphone is used, the recorder [Play Mode]***
mode that fits your prefer-
(☞ P.36, P.41)
speaker will be switched-off. ence.
The playback speed can be
Notes [Play Speed]
set to slow speed or fast
(☞ P.36, P.42)
speed playback.
• To avoid irritation to the ear, insert the
earphone after turning down the volume [Skip Space] The skip interval length can
level. (☞ P.36, P.43) be set.
• When you listen with the earphone during * Can be operated only in [VOICE] mode.
playback, do not raise the volume too ** Can be operated only in [MUSIC] mode.
much. It may cause hearing impairment *** The operation is different between [VOICE]
and decrease in hearing ability. mode and [MUSIC] mode.

29
 Playback

About music file

" For WS-450S:
In cases where the recorder is unable
to playback music files that have been
This function enables transferred to it, check to make sure that the
Segment repeat
repeated playback of part of
(☞ P.32) sampling rate and bit rate are in the range
the file being played.
where playback is possible. Combinations of
This changes the order of the sampling rates and bit rates for music files
files in the selected folder. It which the recorder can playback are given
[Replace]
is useful for playing back files
(☞ P.45)
in a preferred order while in below.
normal playback mode etc. File Sampling
Bit rate
The recorder has a Voice format frequency
Filter Function to cut low WAV*
[Voice Filter] and high frequency tones 44.1 kHz 16 bit
3 (☞ P.36, P.40) during normal, fast, or slow
format
playback, and enable clear MPEG1 Layer3:
Playback

audio playback. 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz,

MP3* 48 kHz From 8 kbps up to
You can select the playback format MPEG2 Layer3: 320 kbps
[Play Mode]
mode that fits your prefer- 16 kHz, 22.05 kHz,
(☞ P.36, P. 41)
ence. 24 kHz
The playback speed can be 8 kHz, 11 kHz,
[Play Speed]
set to slow speed or fast WMA 16 kHz, 22 kHz, From 5 kbps up to
(☞ P.36, P.42)
speed playback. format 32 kHz, 44.1 kHz, 320 kbps
[Skip Space] The skip interval length can 48 kHz
(☞ P.36, P.43) be set.
* For WS-560M, WS-550M only.
• Variable bitrate MP3 files (in which
conversion bitrates can vary) may not play
properly.
• For WAV files, this recorder can only play
back those in the linear PCM format. WAV
files other than these cannot be played
back.
• This recorder is compatible with Microsoft
Corporation DRM9, but not with DRM10.

30
 Playback

Setting an index mark or a temp mark Clearing an index mark or a temp

mark:
If index marks and temp marks are placed,
you can quickly find a location you want 1 Locate the index or temp mark
to listen to in fast forward and fast rewind you want to clear.
and when cuing a file. Index marks cannot
be placed on files created on machines 2 Press the 9 or 0 button to
other than Olympus IC recorders, but temp select the index or temp mark to
marks can be placed instead to temporarily erase.
remember desired locations.

+− button
3
9 0 button

Playback
OK ` button
INDEX/ERASE button
3 While the index or temp number
appears for approximately 2
1 While the recorder is during seconds on the display, Press the
recording mode or playback INDEX/ERASE button.
mode, press the INDEX/ERASE • The index or temp mark is erased.
button. • Index or temp numbers after the
• Even after an index or temp mark is erased index or temp number will
placed, recording or playback will automatically move up.
continue so you can place index or
temp marks in other locations in a
similar manner.
• A number appears on the display and
an index mark or temp mark will be
placed.

Notes
• Temp marks are temporary markings,
so if you move to another file, switch to
the list screen, or connect the recorder
to a computer, they will be automatically
erased.
31
 Playback

• Up to 16 index and temp marks can be How to begin segment repeat

set in a file. If you try to place more than
16 index or temp marks, the [Index Full] playback
message will appear for index marks, and
This function enables repeated playback of
[Temp Mark Full] for temp marks.
part of the file being played.
• Index or temp marks cannot be set or
erased in a locked file (☞ P.36, P.38).

+− button
9 0 button
OK ` button
REC s button

3
Playback

1 Select a file that has a segment

you would like to play back
repeatedly (☞ P.18 to P.20).
2 In the File list display, press the +
or − button to select the file.
• In the File display, press the 9 or
0 button to select a file.
3 Press the OK ` button to start
playback.
4 Press the RECs button at the
point you want to start segment
repeat playback.
• [w] will flash on the display.

• Fast forwarding and rewinding can

be conducted when [w] is flashing in
the same manner as during normal
playback, and you can quickly
proceed as far as the end position
(☞ P.28).
32

• When it reaches to the end of the file
while [w] is flashing, the point will
become the end position, and repeat
playback will start.
5 Press the RECs button again at
the position where you want to
end segment repeat playback.
• The recorder repeatedly plays back
the segment until the segment repeat
playback is cancelled.
Note
• As in normal playback mode, playback
speed can be changed during segment
repeat playback as well (☞ P.36, P.42). If an
index mark and temp mark are inserted
or eliminated during segment repeat
playback, segment repeat playback will
be canceled and it will return to normal
playback mode (☞ P.31).
Playback
Cancel the segment repeat playback function
Pressing any of the following
buttons will release the segment
repeat playback.
Playback
a Press the STOP 4 button
Pressing the STOP 4 button will release
segment repeat playback, and stop
playback.
b Press the RECs button
Pressing the RECs button will release
segment repeat playback, and playback
continues without repeating.
c Press the 9 button
Pressing the 9 button will release
segment repeat playback, and fast
forward and cue to the beginning of the
next file.
d Press the 0 button
Pressing the 0 button will release
segment repeat playback, and reverse to
the beginning of the current file.
33
 Erasing
A selected file can be erased from a folder. 6 Press the + button to select
Also, all files in a folder can be erased [Start].
simultaneously.

+− button
9 0 button
OK ` button
INDEX/ERASE button
7 Press the OK ` button.
• The display changes to [Erase!] and
3 1 Select the folder or file you want erasing will start.
to erase (☞ P.18 to P.20). • [Erase Done] is displayed when the
Erasing

file is erased. File numbers will be

2 In the File list display, press the + reassigned automatically.
or − button to select the file you
want to erase.
• In the File display, press the 9 or
0 button to select a file.
3 While the recorder is during stop
mode, press the INDEX/ERASE
button.

4 Press the + button to select

[Erase in Folder] or [File Erase].
5 Press the OK ` button.

Notes
• The locked files and files set as read-only
cannot be erased (☞ P.36, P.38).
• If an action is not selected within 8
seconds, the recorder will return to stop
34 status.
 Erasing

• It may take over 10 seconds to complete

processing. Never remove batteries during
this time because data may be corrupted.
In addition, replace the batteries with new
ones in order to ensure that the batteries
will not run out while processing.
• For WS-560M, WS-550M only:
You can delete other than [Music] folders
when the recorder is set to [MUSIC] mode.
However, you cannot delete any folders
when the recorder is set to [VOICE] mode.
• For WS-450S only:
You cannot delete folders through the
recorder.
3

Erasing

35
 Menu Setting
Menu setting method
Items in menus are categorized by tabs, so 3 Press the OK ` or 9 button to
select a tab first and move to a desired item move the cursor to the item to
to quickly set it. You can set each menu item set.
as follows.

+− button
9 0 button
OK ` button
MENU button
4 Press the + or − button to move
4 to the item you want to set.
1 While the recorder is during stop
Menu setting method

mode, press the MENU button.

• The menu will appear on the display.

5 Press the OK ` or 9 button.

• Moves to the setting of the selected
item.
• Menu items can be set during a
recording or playback (☞ P.37). 6 Press the + or − button to change
the setting (☞ P.38 to P.44).
2 Press the + or − button to move
to the tab that contains the item
you want to set (☞ P.38 to P.44).
• You can change the menu display by
moving the settings tab cursor.

36
 Menu setting method

7 Press the OK ` button to 4 Setting menu during recording:

complete the setting.
Function Setting
Mic Sense
Low Cut Filter

VCVA To menu item

options
Backlight

LED
• You will be informed that the settings
have been established via the screen. 4 Setting menu during playback:
• Pressing the 0 button without
pressing the OK ` button will cancel Function Setting
the settings and return you to the
Property
previous screen.
8 Press the MENU button to close
Noise Cancel* 4
the menu screen. Voice Filter**

Menu setting method

• When in the menu screen during WOW***
recording or playback, pressing the
0 or MENU button will allow Equalizer***
To menu item
you to return to the playback screen Play Mode options
without interrupting recording or
playback. Play Speed

Notes Skip Space

• The recorder will stop if you leave it idle for Backlight

3 minutes during a menu setup operation,
when a selected item is not applied. LED
• When entering menu settings during * For WS-560M, WS-550M only (Set to
recording or playback, the menu settings [VOICE] mode).
will be cancelled if 8 seconds elapse with
** For WS-450S.
no buttons being pressed.
For WS-560M, WS-550M (Set to [VOICE]
mode).
*** For WS-560M, WS-550M only (Set to
[MUSIC] mode).

37

+ File Menu
Erase Lock
Locking a file keeps important data from
being accidentally erased. Locked files are
not erased when you select to erase all files
from a folder (☞ P.34).
[On]:
Locks the file and prevents it from being
erased.
[Off]:
Unlocks the file and allows it to be erased.
Replace
Refer to “Rearranging files [Replace]”
4 (☞ P.45).
Menu setting method
Property
File and folder information can be
confirmed from the menu screen.
When the file is selected:
[Name] (File name), [Date] (Time stamp),
[Size] (File size), [Bit Rate]* (File format)
[Artist]** (Artist name) and [Album]**
(Album name) will appear on the display.
* When a linear PCM format file has been
selected, [Bit Rate] area displays the
sampling frequency and bit rate.
** When a file contains no tag information,
the display contents of this area are blank.
When [VOICE] is selected, [Artist] and
[Album] will not appear on the display.
When the folder is selected:
[Name] (File name), [Folder]* (Number of
folder) and [File]** (Number of file) will
appear on the display.
* When [VOICE] is selected, [Folder] will
not appear on the display.
** Files which cannot be recognized by this
recorder are not included in the number
of files.
• Select the files for which you would like
to confirm information in advance before
operating the menu.
38
Menu setting method
, Rec Menu
" For WS-560M/WS-550M:
• When performing operations on
the [Rec Menu] screen, set the
mode switch to [VOICE] (☞ P.17).
Mic Sense
Microphone sensitivity is adjustable to meet
recording needs.
" For WS-450S:
• Use the switch to set the
microphone sensitivity (☞ P.23).
[Conference]:
This is a highly sensitive mode which can
record surrounding noises.
[Dictation]:
This is the standard level of microphone
sensitivity. Select this mode for cases
where the volume of the source sound is
high, such as a band performance.
• When you would like to clearly record
a speaker’s voice, set [Mic Sense] to
[Dictation] and hold recorder’s built-in
stereo microphone close to the speaker’s
mouth (5-10 cm) before recording.
Rec Mode
In addition to selecting between stereo
or mono recording formats, you can also
record favoring high sound quality, or
record favoring increased recording time.
Select the recording mode that fits your
purpose.
[ST XQ]:
Stereo extra high quality sound recording.
[ST HQ]:
Stereo high quality sound recording.
[ST SP]:
Stereo standard recording.

[HQ]:
Monaural high quality sound recording.
[SP]:
Monaural standard recording.
[LP]:
Monaural long-term recording.
• To record a meeting and lecture clearly, set
other than [LP] in [Rec Mode].
• When the external monaural microphone
is used while [Rec Mode] is set to a stereo
recording mode, it enables recording only
with the L channel microphone.
Low Cut Filter
The recorder has a Low Cut Filter function to
minimize low-frequency sounds and record
voices more clearly. This function can reduce
noise from air conditioners, projectors and
other similar noises.
[On]:
Enables the Low Cut Filter function.
[Off]:
Disables this function.
VCVA
When the microphone senses that
sounds have reached a preset threshold
volume level, the built-in Variable Control
Voice Actuator (VCVA) starts recording
automatically, and stops when the volume
drops below the threshold level. The
VCVA feature extends recording time and
conserves memory by stopping recording
during silent periods, which helps the
playback to be more efficient.
[On]:
Enables the VCVA function. Will start
recording in VCVA mode.
[Off]:
Disables this function. Will resume
recording in normal mode.
Menu setting method
Adjust the start/stop actuation
level:
1 Press the RECs button to start
recording.
• When the sound volume is lower than
the preset threshold sound level,
recording automatically stops after
1 sec approximately, and [Standby]
flashes on the display. The recording
indicator light glows when recording
starts and flashes when recording
pauses.
2 Press the 9 or 0 button
adjust the start/stop actuation
level.
• The VCVA level can be set to any of 15
4
different values.
Menu setting method
• The higher the value, the more
sensitive the recorder to sounds. At
the highest value, even the faintest
sound will activate recording.
a
b
a Level meter (varies according to the
sound volume being recorded)
b Start level (moves to the right/left
according to the set level)
• The start/stop actuation level also varies
depending on the selected microphone
sensitivity mode (☞ P.23 or P.38 ).
• If the starting level is not adjusted within
2 seconds, the display will return to the
previous.
• If the surrounding noise is loud, the
starting sensitivity of the VCVA can be
adjusted according to the recording
situation. 39
 Menu setting method

• To ensure successful recordings, prior Noise Cancel

testing and adjustment of the start/stop
actuation level is recommended.
- Play Menu
" For WS-560M/WS-550M:
• When operating the [Play Menu]
screen, different settings items
are displayed depending on the
position of the mode switch.
When [VOICE] mode is selected:
[Noise Cancel]
[Voice Filter]
4 [Play Mode] (☞ P.41)
[Play Speed] (☞ P.42)
Menu setting method
If recorded audio is difficult to understand
because of noisy surroundings, adjust the
Noise Cancel setting level.
[High] [Low]:
Enables the Noise Cancel function. Noise
will be reduced in the file when it’s played
back for better sound quality.
[Off]:
Disables this function.
• When [Noise Cancel] is set to [Low] or
[High], [Voice Filter] and slow/high speed
playback functions will not function. To
use these functions, set [Noise Cancel] to
[Off].
Voice Filter
The recorder has a Voice Filter Function to
cut low and high frequency tones during

[Skip Space] (☞ P.43) normal, fast, or slow playback, and enable

clear audio playback.
When [MUSIC] mode is selected: [On]:
Enables the Voice Filter function.
[WOW] [Off]:
[Equalizer] (☞ P.41)
Disables this function.
• When [Voice Filter] is set to [On], [Noise
[Play Mode] (☞ P.41) Cancel] will not function. To use this
[Play Speed] (☞ P.42) functions, set [Voice Filter] to [Off].
[Skip Space] (☞ P.43) WOW
The recorder has SRS WOW XT, an audio
processing technology that increases sound
clarity and bass quality.
" For WS-450S: The level of the surround effect (SRS 3D) and
the bass effect (TruBass) may be individually
[Voice Filter] adjusted through 4 levels of processing.
[Play Mode] (☞ P.41)
1 Select [SRS 3D] or [TruBass].
[Play Speed] (☞ P.42) [SRS 3D]:
[Skip Space] (☞ P.43) The surround effect can be adjusted.
The expansive feel and clarity of the
sound can be increased.
[TruBass]:
The low-frequency range can be
adjusted. The low-frequency range
40 can be made richer.
 Menu setting method

2 Adjust the surround level or bass • To change the settings again, press the
effect level. 9 or 0 button and repeat the
procedure from step 2.
[High] [Middle] [Low]:
The sound quality can be adjusted to Play Mode
one of 3 levels.
[Off]: You can select the playback mode that fits
Disables this function. your preference.
• The SRS WOW XT effect will be weakened
if the bit rate for any music file is less than
32 kbps. " For WS-560M/WS-550M:
• Depending on the song, the SRS WOW XT
effect will be heightened, and may sound Set to [MUSIC] mode.
like noise. If this happens, adjust the
SRS WOW XT effect.
• Set [WOW] to [Off] to use the slow
Select the desired playback range:
playback or fast playback mode. 1 Select [Play Area].
Otherwise you cannot use these functions
(☞ P.42). 2 Select [File], [Folder] or [All].
4

Menu setting method

Equalizer [File]:
Selects the current file.
If you change the equalizer setting, you can [Folder]:
enjoy the music with your favorite sound Selects the current folder.
quality. [All]:
Selects all files in the internal
1 Select the desired equalizer memory.
characteristics.
Select the desired playback mode:
[Off]:
Disables the equalizer function. 1 Select [Repeat] or [Random].
[Rock] [Pop] [Jazz]:
Enables the equalizer function. [Repeat]:
[User]: Sets to repeat playback mode.
Select [User] to save your own [Random]:
custom equalizer settings. If [User] is Sets to random playback mode.
selected, proceed to Step 2. 2 Select [On] or [Off].
2 Select the frequency band. [On]:
[60 Hz] [250 Hz] [1 kHz] [4 kHz] [12 kHz]: Sets the playback range to be played
Select the frequency bandwidth back repeatedly or randomly.
setting. [Off]:
Disables this function.
3 Select the equalizer level.
• You can select the equalizer level from [–6]
to [+6] in 1dB increments.
• The higher the decibel value, the louder
the sound.

41

" For WS-560M/WS-550M:
Set to [VOICE] mode.
" For WS-450S:
[File]:
Stop after playing back the current file.
[Folder]:
Play files continuously in the current folder
until the last file and stop.
• In [File] mode, when the recorder comes
to the end of the last file in the folder,
[End] flashes for two seconds on the
display and the recorder stops at the start
of the last file.
• In [Folder] mode, when the recorder
4 comes to the end of the last file in the
folder, [End] flashes for two seconds on
Menu setting method
the display and the recorder stops at the
start of the first file in the folder.
• In [All] mode, after playing the last file in
the folder, the recorder will start playing
from the first file in the next folder. When
it comes to the end of the last file in the
recorder, [End] flashes for two seconds on
the display and the recorder stops at the
start of the first file in the recorder.
Play Speed
The playback speed of the file can be
changed between 0.5 and 2 times speed.
Change the speed according to need such as
listening to meeting content at a fast speed
or reviewing spots that you couldn't catch
in a language lesson at a slow speed. The
tone will be automatically adjusted digitally
without changing the voice so it sounds
natural.
42
Menu setting method
1 Select [Slow Playback] or
[Fast Playback].
2 Set the playback speed.
When [Slow Playback] is selected:
[x0.5 Play] [x0.625 Play] [x0.75 Play]
[x0.875 Play]
When [Fast Playback] is selected:
[x1.125 Play] [x1.25 Play]
[x1.375 Play] [x1.5 Play] [x2.0 Play]
Change Playback Speed:
1 Press the OK ` button to start
playback.
2 Press the OK ` button to switch
playback speed.
• Every time the OK ` button is
pressed, the playback speed will
switch.
• Even if playback is stopped, the
changed playback speed will be
retained. The next playback will be at
that speed.
Normal playback: Playback at normal
speed.
Slow playback: Playback speed slows
down, and [2] will appear on the
display (default at 0.75 times as fast).
Fast playback: Playback speed becomes
faster, and [1] will appear on the
display (default at 1.5 times as fast).
Restrictions on double speed
playback:
Double speed fast playback may
not be available depending on the
sampling frequencyand the bit rate
of the file to be played back. In such
a case, the device plays back in up to
x1.5 speed.
• As in normal playback mode, you can stop
playback, cue a file, or insert an index mark
in slow playback and fast playback modes
as well (☞ P.31).
 Menu setting method

• The slow playback or fast playback is

available even if either [Voice Filter] or
. LCD/Sound Menu
[Equalizer] is set (☞ P.40, P.41).
• The slow playback or fast playback is Backlight
not available if either [Noise Cancel] or
[WOW] effect is set (☞ P.40). The display will remain lit for about 10 (Initial
setting) seconds when a button on the
• Playback speed will return to normal if the
recorder is pressed.
mode switch setting is changed.
1 Select [Lighting Time] or
Skip Space
[Brightness].
This function enables you to skip (forward) 2 Set the lighting time.
or reverse skip (rewind) a file being played
for a set period. This function is convenient [Off]:
for quickly skipping to another playback Disables this function.
position or repeatedly playing back short [5seconds] [10seconds] [30seconds]
phrases. [1minutes]:
Enables the Backlight function.
1 Select [Forward Skip] or 4
[Reverse Skip]. 3 Set the brightness.

Menu setting method

[High] [Low]:
2 Set the skip space. Sets the brightness of the backlight
When [Forward Skip] is selected: when lit.
[File Skip] [10sec. Skip] [30sec. Skip] Contrast
[1min. Skip] [5min. Skip]
[10min. Skip] Display contrast can be adjusted in 12 levels.
When [Reverse Skip] is selected: You can adjust the LCD display contrast level from
[File Skip] [1sec. Skip] – [5sec. Skip] [01] to [12].
[10sec. Skip] [30sec. Skip]
[1min. Skip] [5min. Skip] LED
[10min. Skip]
You can set it so the LED indicator light does
Forward/Reverse Skip Playback: not turn on.
[On]:
1 Press the OK ` button to start LED light will be set.
playback. [Off]:
2 Press the 9 or 0 button. LED light will be cancelled.
• The recorder will skip (forward) or Beep
reverse skip (rewind) a set space and
start playing back. The recorder beeps to alert you to button
• If there is an index mark/temp mark or operations or warn you of errors. System
a cue closer than the skip space, the sounds may be turned off.
recorder will forward skip/reverse skip to [On]:
that position. Enables the Beep function.
[Off]:
Disables this function.
43
 Menu setting method

Language(Lang) . LCD/Sound Menu:

[Backlight]
You can select the display language for this [Lighting Time] [10seconds]
recorder. [Brightness] [Low]
[English] [Français] [Deutsch] [Italiano] [Contrast] [Level 06]
[LED] [On]
[Español]: [Beep] [On]
/ Device Menu [Language(Lang)] [English]
* For WS-560M, WS-550M only (Set to
Time & Date [VOICE] mode).
** For WS-450S.
Refer to “Setting time and date [Time & For WS-560M, WS-550M (Set to [VOICE]
Date]” (☞ P.15). mode).
Reset Settings *** For WS-560M, WS-550M only (Set to
[MUSIC] mode).
This returns the functions back to their initial
settings (factory default). Format
4 [Start]:
Refer to “Formatting the Recorder
Returns the settings to their initial values.
[Format]” (☞ P.46).
Menu setting method

[Cancel]:
Takes you back to the [Device Menu].
• After resetting the settings, the time
settings and file numbers will be
preserved from before the reset and will
not return to their initial settings.
Menu settings after setting reset
(initial settings):
System Info.
You can check the recorder’s information on
the menu screen. [Model] (Model Name),
[Capacity] (Built-in frash memory size) and
[Version] (System version) [Serial No.]
(Serial Number) appears on the display.

, Rec Menu:
[Mic Sense] [Conference]
[Rec Mode] [ST XQ]
[Low Cut Filter] [Off]
[VCVA] [Off]
- Play Menu:
[Noise Cancel]* [Off]
[Voice Filter]** [Off]
[WOW]***
[SRS 3D] [Off]
[TruBass] [Off]
[Equalizer]*** [Off]
[Play Mode]***
[Play Area] [Folder]
[Repeat] [Off]
[Random] [Off]
[Play Mode]** [File]
[Play Speed]
[Slow Playback] [x0.75 Play]
[Fast Playback] [x1.5 Play]
[Skip Space] [File Skip]
44
 Menu setting method

Rearranging files [Replace] 7 Press the OK ` button.

• The cursor will flash to confirm that
You can move a file in a folder to change the the file can be moved.
order of playback. First select the folder (file)
for which you want to change the playback
order.

+− button
9 0 button
OK ` button
MENU button 8 Press the + or − button to select
the location to move it to.

1 Select the folder for which you 4

would like to rearrange the song

Menu setting method

order (☞ P.18 to P.20).
2 While the recorder is during stop
mode, press the MENU button.
• The menu will appear on the display
(☞ P.36). 9 Press the OK ` button button to
3 Press the OK ` or 9 button to complete the setting.
move the cursor to the item to • If there are more files to move, repeat
set. Steps 5 through 8.
• Pressing the 0 button without
\4 Press the + or − button to select pressing the OK ` button will cancel
[Replace]. the settings and return you to the
previous screen.
5 Press the OK ` or 9 button.
6 Press the + or − button to select
the file you want to move.

10 Press the MENU button to close

the menu screen.

45
 Menu setting method

Formatting the Recorder [Format] 6 Press the + button to select

[Start].
If you format the recorder, all files will be
removed and all function settings will return
to defaults except date and time settings.
Transfer any important files to a computer
before formatting the recorder.

+− button
7 Press the OK ` button.
9 0 button
• After the [Data will be cleared]
OK ` button
message is on for two seconds, [Start]
MENU button and [Cancel] will turn on.

4
1 While the recorder is during stop
Menu setting method

mode, press the MENU button.

• The menu will appear on the display
(☞ P.36).
2 Press the + or − button to select
[Device Menu] tab.
• You can change the menu display by
moving the settings tab cursor.
3 Press the OK ` or 9 button.
4 Press the + or − button to select
[Format].

8 Press the + button again to select

[Start].

5 Press the OK ` or 9 button.

• [Format] will appear on the display.

46
 Menu setting method

9 Press the OK ` button.

• Formatting begins and [Format !]
flashes on the display.
• [Format Done] appears when
formatting ends.

Menu setting method

Notes
• It may take over 10 seconds to complete
processing. Never remove batteries during
this time because data may be corrupted.
In addition, replace the batteries with new
ones in order to ensure that the batteries
will not run out while processing.
• Never format the recorder from a PC.
• Once the recorder is formatted, the music
files with DRM may not be transferred to
the recorder again.
• When the recorder is formatted, all the
saved data, including locked files and
read-only files, are erased.
• After formatting, recorded audio file
names may start from [0001].
• When returning the settings for the
functions to their initial settings, use
[Reset Settings] (☞ P.36, P.44).

47
 Using the Recorder on Your PC
By being connected to a PC, the recorder
enables you to do the following: Operating environment
• You can transfer files recorded with this
recorder to a computer, play them back, Windows
and manage them by using Windows
Media Player or iTunes (☞ P.53, P.60). Operating System:
• The recorder is compatible with WMA, Microsoft Windows 2000/XP/Vista
MP3* and WAV* language content. (Standard Installation)
* For WS-560M, WS-550M only. Compatible PC’s:
• In addition to its uses as an IC recorder and Windows PC’s equipped with more than
a music player, this recorder can also be one free USB port
used as external memory for a computer
by storing data from a computer and Macintosh
reading it back out (☞ P.52, P.64).
Operating System:
Mac OS X 10.2.8 - 10.5 (Standard
Installation)
Compatible PC’s:
Apple Macintosh series equipped with
more than one free USB port
5
Notes
Operating environment

• This is an operational environment for

saving the files recorded by this recorder
to your PC with USB connection.
• Even if operational environment is
satisfied, we do not support such as
upgraded OS, the multi-boot environment
and self-modified PC’s.

48

Precautions on using the recorder connected to a PC
• When you are downloading a file from
the recorder or uploading a file to the
recorder, do not remove the USB cable
even if the screen is indicating you can.
Data is still being transferred while the
recording indicator light is blinking. When
removing the USB cable, be sure to follow
the description in ☞ P.51. If the USB cable
is removed before the drive is stopped,
data may not be successfully transferred.
• On a PC, do not format the drive of the
recorder. Initialization is not successfully
achieved on a PC. For initialization, follow
the instructions in the [Format] screen of
the recorder (☞ P.46).
• Folder (directory) names appeared by
file management tools such as Explorer
attached to Microsoft Windows is different
from the folder names that can be set with
the recorder.
• If folders or files stored on the recorder
are moved or renamed by using a file
management tool such as Explorer, the
order of files may be changed or files may
become unrecognizable
• Data can be written or uploaded to the
recorder even though the attribute of the
recorder drive is shown as Read-only by
the operating system of the PC.
• As the noise may cause adverse effects on
electronics devices nearby the recorder,
unplug the external microphone and
earphone when you connect the recorder
to a PC.
Operating environment
Copyright and copyright protection feature (DRM)
By the Copyright Act, any voice/music
files and music CDs downloaded from the
Internet without the copyright holder’s
permission may not be reproduced,
distributed, publicized/re-publicized on
the Internet, or converted into WAV, WMA
or MP3 files for the purpose of commercial
business or sale.
A WMA file may be provided with DRM
(Digital Right Management) for copyright
protection. DRM limits the file to copy or
distribute music files that are converted
(ripped) from a music CD or downloaded
from music distribution services. To transfer
a WMA file with DRM to the recorder, you
need to use appropriate methods such as
Windows Media Player. Copying the music
files with DRM purchased from online music
distribution service to a portable device 5
such as this recorder may be restricted.
Operating environment
Note
• This recorder is compatible with Microsoft
Corporation DRM9, but not with DRM10.
49
 Connecting to your PC
1 Boot the PC.
2 Slide the USB connector slide
lever in the direction indicated
by the arrow to eject the USB
connector out of the recorder.
5 Notes
Connecting to your PC
3 Connect to the PC's USB port or
to a USB hub.
50
Windows:
When you open [My Computer], it will
be recognized by the drive name of the
product name.
Macintosh:
When you connect the recorder to a Mac
OS, it will be recognized by the drive name
of the product name on the desktop.
• [Remote] is appeared on recorder if
the USB cable is connected.
• Refer to the user’s manual for your PC
regarding the USB port on your PC.
• Be sure to push the cable connector all the
way in. Otherwise, the recorder may not
operate properly.
• Use the supplied USB extension cable
depending on situations.
• Do not use USB extension cables other
than the supplied cable.
Using cables from other manufacturers
could result in damage to the recorder. Do
not use the supplied USB extension cable
with devices from other manufacturers.
 Connecting to your PC

Disconnecting from your PC Note

• NEVER disconnect the USB while the
Windows recording indicator light is flashing. If you
do, the data will be destroyed.

1 Click [ ] on the task bar

located at the lower-right corner
of the screen. Click [Safely
remove USB Mass Storage Device].
• The drive letter will differ depending
on the PC being used.
2 When the safe to remove
hardware window appears, click
[OK].
3 Disconnect the recorder from the 5
PC.

Connecting to your PC
Macintosh

1 Move the drive icon for this

recorder that is appear on the
desktop to the garbage bin by
Drag & Drop it.
• When you connect the recorder to a
Mac OS, it will be recognized by the
drive name of the product name on
the desktop.
2 Disconnect the recorder from the
PC.
51
 Transfer the voice files to your PC
The 5 voice folders of this recorder are Notes
appeared as [DSS_FLDA], [DSS_FLDB], • While transmitting data, [Busy] is
[DSS_FLDC], [DSS_FLDD] and [DSS_FLDE], appeared, and the recording indicator
and the recorded voice files are saved in light flashes. NEVER disconnect the
these folders. USB while the recording indicator light
is flashing. If you do, the data will be
Windows
destroyed.
• In the Mac OS operational environment,
1 Connecting the recorder to your WMA format files cannot be played back.
PC (☞ P.50).
2 Open the Explorer window.
3 Open the product name folder.
• When you open [My Computer], it
will be recognized by the drive name
of the product name.
4 Copy the data.

5 5 Disconnect the recorder from the

PC (☞ P.51).
Transfer the voice files to your PC

Macintosh

1 Connecting the recorder to your

PC (☞ P.50).
• When you connect the recorder to a
Mac OS, it will be recognized by the
drive name of the product name on
the desktop.
2 Double-click the product name
icon on the desktop.
3 Copy the data.
4 Disconnect the recorder from the
PC (☞ P.51).

52
Using Windows Media Player
Music files that have been imported to your computer from music CDs and acquired over the
Internet can be transferred to and played back with this recorder. It supports WAV, MP3, and
WMA format music files.
By using Windows Media Player, music files from music CDs can be converted (ripped)
(☞ P.54) and music files that you have bought from any music distribution sites can be easily
transferred to the recorder (☞ P.55, P.58).

Window names
Windows Media Player 11 Windows Media Player 10
1 1 2

3 5
4

Using Windows Media Player

4 6 8 0 6 8 0 @
2 3 5 7 9 5 7 9 !

1 Features taskbar 1 Features taskbar

2 Seek slider 2 Quick Access Panel button
3 Shuffle button 3 Seek slider
4 Repeat button 4 Rewind button
5 Stop button 5 Play button
6 Previous button 6 Stop button
7 Play button 7 Previous button
8 Next button 8 Next button
9 Mute button 9 Mute button
0 Volume slider 0 Volume slide
! Shuffle/ Repeat button
@ Fast Forward button

Note
• If you are using Windows 2000, Windows Media Player must be installed on the PC. 53
 Using Windows Media Player

Copying music from CD

1 Insert CD into the CD-ROM drive, Windows Media Player 11
and start Windows Media Player.
2 From the Features taskbar, click
[Rip] menu. 2 3
• After clicking [Rip] menu, click
[View Album Info] for Windows
Media Player 10 as necessary.
• If Internet connectivity is available,
CD information is searched.
3 Put a check mark on the music
file that you want to copy.
4 Click [Start Rip].
• For Windows Media Player 10 Click
[Rip Music].
5 • Files copied to a PC are stored in
WMA format. Music files copied are
categorized by artist, album, genre,
4
Using Windows Media Player

etc. and added to the play list.

Windows Media Player 10

3 2 4

54
 Using Windows Media Player

Transferring music file to the recorder

You can transfer the music files saved in your PC to this recorder. For how to copy the music
files from the CD to your PC, see “Copying music from CD” (☞ P.54).

Windows Media Player 11

1 Connect the recorder to a PC, and

start Windows Media Player. 2, 3
2 From the Features taskbar, click
[Sync].
3 Click [Sync] menu again to select
[DVR] { [Advanced Options] {
[Set Up Sync], and set as follows.
• Click on the [Create folder hierarchy
on device] to check. *1 *2
• The folder with artist name or album 5
name is automatically created. This

Using Windows Media Player

will make you find the file you want to
listen to more easily.
*1 If [Create folder hierarchy on
device] is checked by default, click
to uncheck the box once, and click it
again to check.
*2 After the synchronous transfer to the
recorder, a file named “WMPInfo.xml”
is created. If you delete this file, the *1
may need to be set again.

55
 Using Windows Media Player

4 Select the desired category from

[Library] on the left, and select
music files or albums to transfer
to the recorder, and Drag & Drop
them in [Sync List] on the right.
5 Click [Start Sync].
• The file is transferred to the recorder.

4 5
Windows Media Player 10
5
1 Connect the recorder to a PC, and
Using Windows Media Player

start Windows Media Player. 2 3 4

2 From the Features taskbar, click
[Sync].
3 From the pull down menu on
the left side window, select the
play list to be transferred to
the recorder, and put the check
marks on the music file that you
want to transfer.
• The order of music pieces can be
changed by Drag & Drop of the music
file in the play list displayed.
4 From the pull down menu on
the right side window, select
the drive corresponding to the
recorder.
• The recorder is recognized as a
Removable Disk.

56
 Using Windows Media Player

5 Click [ ] on the upper

right corner, and set the
synchronization options.
6 5
• Click on the [Create folder hierarchy
on device] to check. * 1 *2
• The folder with artist name or album
name is automatically created. This
will make you find the file you want to
listen to more easily.
*1 If [Create folder hierarchy on
device] is checked by default, click
to uncheck the box once, and click it
again to check.
*2 After the synchronous transfer to the
recorder, a file named “WMPInfo.xml”
is created. If you delete this file, the *1
may need to be set again.
6 Click [Start Sync].
• The file is transferred to the recorder.
The music file transferred to the
5
recorder is displayed in Item on

Using Windows Media Player

Device.
6

Notes
• Copying the music files with DRM purchased online music distribution service to a portable
device such as this recorder may be restricted.
• To transfer the files by using Windows Media Player 9, check the Olympus website.
• If the music files are transferred to the recorder until it reaches to the maximum memory,
the message [Can’t make the system file. Connect to PC and delete unnecessary file]
may appear on this recorder’s display. In such a case, erase the files to make free space
(hundreds of KB to dozens of MB depending on the music file sizes) for the management
file. (The more capacity for the management file will be necessary as the number of the
music files increases). 57
 Using Windows Media Player

Copying voice file to the CD

You can transfer the voice files in the recorder to your PC and copy them to CD. For how to
copy the voice files from the recorder to your PC, see “Transfer the voice files to your PC”
(☞ P.52).

Windows Media Player 11

1 Insert the blank CD-R/RW into

the CD-R/RW drive, and start
Windows Media Player.
2, 4
2 From the Features taskbar, click
the [Burn] menu.
3 Select the desired category from
[Library] on the left, and select
voice files or albums to copy to
5 the CD-R/RW, and Drag & Drop
them in [Burn List] on the right.
Using Windows Media Player

4 Click [Burn] menu again, and

select [Audio CD] or [Data CD].
When [Audio CD] is selected:
• A file is converted and copied in
music CD in order to play it by the
audio equipment which can play
3 5
CD-R/RW.
When [Data CD] is selected:
• Copying files with the format to be
recorded.
5 Click [Start Burn].

58
 Using Windows Media Player

Windows Media Player 10

1 Insert the blank CD-R/RW into

the CD-R/RW drive, and start
Windows Media Player.
5 2 3 4
2 From the Features taskbar, click
[Burn] menu.
• Click [Burn] as needed after clicking
[Edit Playlist] menu.
• You can change the order of tracks by
Drag & Drop files.
3 Put a check mark on the voice
files that you want to copy.
4 Select format of CD before
clicking [Start Burn].
When [Audio CD] is selected:
• A file is converted and copied in 5
music CD in order to play it by the

Using Windows Media Player

audio equipment which can play
CD-R/RW.
When [Data CD] is selected:
• Copying files with the format to be
recorded.
5 Click [Start Burn].

59
 Using iTunes
Window names

1
2
3

5
Using iTunes

4567 8 9 0

1 Features taskbar 5 Shuffle button

2 Rewind button/ 6 Repeat button
Playback, Pause button/ 7 Display change button
Fast Forward button 8 Disc create button
3 Volume slide 9 Browse button
4 Playlist addition button 0 Disc eject button

60
 Using iTunes

Copying music from CD

1 Insert the CD into the CD-ROM
drive, and start iTunes. 2 3 4
2 Click [iTunes] { [Preferences].
3 Click [Advanced] tag.
4 Click [Importing] to set the file
format and bit rate for copying
music files to your PC, and click
[OK].
• This recorder supports MP3 and WAV
format music files (☞ P.30).
[Import Using]:
Set the file format for copying music
file from a CD.
[Setting]:
Set the bit rate for copying music file 5
from a CD.
5

Using iTunes
5 Put a check mark on the music
files that you want to copy.
6 Click [Import CD].

61
 Using iTunes

Transferring music file to the recorder

You can transfer the music files saved in your PC to this recorder. For how to copy the music
files from the CD to your PC, see “Copying music from CD” (☞ P.61).

1 Connect the recorder to a PC, and

start iTunes.
2 Select the play list to be
transferred to the recorder, and
put the check marks on the music
files that you want to transfer.
• The order of music pieces can be
changed by Drag & Drop of the music
file in the play list displayed.

5
2
Using iTunes

3 Double-click the corresponding

drive with the recorder, and open
[Music] folder.
• When you connect the recorder to a
Mac OS, it will be recognized by the
drive name of the product name on
the desktop.
• Copy to [Music] folder of the recorder
when transferring the music file.
• You can create up to 2 hierarchies Drag & Drop
in the [Music] folder. And up to files here
128 folders can be made including
[Music] folder.
• Up to 200 files can be stored in each
folder.
4 Select the desired files, and Drag
& Drop them to [Music] folder.

62
 Using iTunes

Copying voice file to the CD

You can transfer the voice files in the recorder to your PC and copy them to CD. For how to
copy the voice files from the recorder to your PC, see “Transfer the voice files to your PC”
(☞ P.52).

1 Insert the CD-R/RW into the CD-

R/RW drive, and start iTunes. 2 3 4
2 Click [iTunes] { [Preferences].
3 Click [Advanced] tag.
4 Click [Burning] to set the CD
format for copying voice files to
CD-R/RW, and click [OK].
When [Audio CD] is selected:
A file is converted and copied in
music CD in order to play it by the
audio equipment which can play 5
CD-R/RW.

Using iTunes
When [MP3 CD] is selected:
Copying in MP3 format.
When [Data CD] is selected:
Copying files with the format to be
recorded.

5 Select the desired playlist, and

put a check mark on the voice
files to copy to the CD-R/RW.
6 Click [Burn Disc].

5 6
63
 Using as external memory of the PC
In addition to its uses as an IC recorder and
a music player, this recorder can also be
used as external memory for a computer by
storing data from a computer and reading
it back out.
With the recorder connected to your PC,
you can download data from the memory to
your PC and upload data stored on your PC
to the memory.
Windows
Note
• While transmitting data, [Busy] is
displayed, and the recording indicator
light flashes. NEVER disconnect the
USB while the recording indicator light
is flashing. If you do, the data will be
destroyed.

1 Connecting the recorder to your

PC (☞ P.50).
2 Open the Explorer window.
3 Open the product name folder.
• When you open [My Computer], it
will be recognized by the drive name
5 of the product name.
4 Copy the data.
Using as external memory of the PC

5 Disconnect the recorder from the

PC (☞ P.51).
Macintosh

1 Connecting the recorder to your

PC (☞ P.50).
• When you connect the recorder to a
Mac OS, it will be recognized by the
drive name of the product name on
the desktop.
2 Double-click the product name
icon on the desktop.
3 Copy the data.
4 Disconnect the recorder from the
PC (☞ P.51).

64
 Other Information
Alarm message list
Message Meaning Explanation Action
Battery power is getting Replace with new batter-
[Battery Low] Low battery power.
low. ies (☞ P.10).

Tried to delete a locked Unlock the file (☞ P.36,

[File Protected] Erase-locked.
file. P.38).

For WS-560M, WS-550M only:

[Music Mode] Set the mode switch

The mode switch is set to
[MUSIC] mode is active. to [VOICE] position
[MUSIC] position.
(☞ P.17).

The file is full of index Erase index marks that

[Index Full] Index full. marks (maximum of 16 are no longer
marks). required (☞ P.31).

The file is full of Temp- Erase Tempmarks that

[Temp Mark Full] Tempmark full. marks (maximum of 16 are no longer required
marks). (☞ P.31).

The folder is full of files Erase unnecessary files

[Folder Full] Folder full.
(maximum of 200 files). (☞ P.34).
6
This is a malfunction, so

Alarm message list

go to the store where
you purchased the
[Memory Error] Error in the memory. Error in the memory.
recorder or an Olympus
service station for repair
(☞ P.68).

The music files copied

[Licence Mismatch] Illegally copied file. Erase the file (☞ P.34).
illegally.

Erase unnecessary files

[Memory Full] Zero remaining memory. No remaining memory.
(☞ P.34).

No files were found in Select another folder

[No File] No file.
the folder. (☞ P.18 to P.20).

There was an error while

Reformat the memory
[Format Error] Formatting error. formatting the recorder’s
(☞ P.46).
memory.

[Can’t make the The file for management

Connect the recorder to
system file. Connect The management file cannot be created due
a computer and delete
to PC and delete cannot be created. to a shortage of capacity
any unnecessary files.
unnecessary file] for remaining memory.

65
 Troubleshooting
Symptom Probable cause Action
Verify that the batteries’ polarities =
The batteries are not loaded properly.
and - are correct (☞ P.10).
Nothing appears on
Battery power is getting low. Replace with new batteries (☞ P.10).
the display

The power is off. Turn the power on (☞ P.13).

Battery power is getting low. Replace with new batteries (☞ P.10).

Won’t start The power is off. Turn the power on (☞ P.13).

Release the recorder from HOLD

The recorder is in HOLD mode.
(☞ P.14).

Low remaining memory. Erase unnecessary files (☞ P.34).

Unable to record
The maximum number of files has Change to the another folder
been reached. (☞ P.18 to P.21).
Unplug the earphones to use the
The earphone is connected.
No playback tone internal speaker.
heard
6 The volume level is set to [00]. Adjust the volume level (☞ P.27).

Set the microphone sensitivity to the

Troubleshooting

The microphone sensitivity is too low. conference mode and try again (☞
Recording level too P.23 or P.36, P.38).
low This could potentially be because
Adjust the output level for the
the output level for the connected
connected devices.
external devices are too low.
When recording while an external
The connected external microphone monaural microphone is connected,
Voice files are not is monaural. sound will only be recorded by the
recorded in stereo L-channel.
[Rec Mode] is set to a monaural Set [Rec Mode] to the stereo
recording mode. recording mode (☞ P.36, P.38).
Cannot find the Switch to the correct folder
Wrong folder.
recorded Voice File (☞ P.18 to P.21).
The recorder was shaken during
--------
recording.
Noise heard during
playback The recorder was placed near a cell
phone or fluorescent lamp while Move the recorder.
recording or during playback.

66
 Troubleshooting

Symptom Probable cause Action

The file is locked. Unlock the file (☞ P.36, P.38).

Unable to erase the
file Unlock the file or cancel the read-only
The file is read-only.
setting of the file on the PC.
There is a file which cannot be
Unable to erase the Connect the recorder to your PC and
recognized by the recorder in the
folders erase a folder (☞ P.50).
folder.
When the built-in speaker amps and
the like are connected there is a risk
that audio feedback will occur while
recording. It is recommended that
Noise is audible you use earphones for the recording
through the recording Acoustic feedback is occurring. monitor.
monitor Conduct adjustments like separating
the earphones from the microphone
further, do not point the microphone
at the earphones, lower the volume on
the recording monitor, and so on.
The maximum number of marks has
Erase unnecessary marks (☞ P.31).
been reached.
Unable to set index
marks, tempmarks
The file is locked. Unlock the file (☞ P.36, P.38). 6

Troubleshooting
Unlock the file or cancel the read-only
The file is read-only.
setting of the file on the PC.

67
 Technical assistance and support
The following are contact information for technical support for Olympus recorders and
software only.
s Technical Hotline Number in the U.S. and Canada
1-888-553-4448
s User Support E-mail address in the U.S. and Canada
distec@olympus.com
s Technical Hotline Number in Europe
Toll free number: 00800 67 10 83 00
available for Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxemburg,
Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom
Charged numbers for the Rest of Europe
+ 49 180 567 1083
+ 49 40 23773 4899
s User Support E-mail address in Europe
dss.support@olympus-europa.com

Accessories (optional)
s Stereo microphone: ME51S
The built-in large-diameter microphone
6 enables sensitive stereo recording.
s 2 channel microphone (omni-
Accessories (optional)
Technical assistance and support/
s Telephone pickup: TP7
Earphone type microphone can be
plugged into your ear while phoning.
The voice or conversation over the phone
can be clearly recorded.

directional): ME30W
Two ME30 monaural microphones come
in a set with a miniature tripod and a
connection adapter. These are highly
sensitive omni-directional microphones
supported by plug-in power which
are well-suited to recording musical
performances.
s Highly sensitive noise-
cancellation monaural
microphone (unidirectional):
ME52W
This microphone is used to record
sound at a distance while minimizing
surrounding noise
s Tie clip microphone (omni-
directional): ME15
Small concealing microphone with a
tie-clip.
68
s Ni-MH rechargeable battery and
charger set: BC400 (For Europe)
BC400 comes with an Ni-MH
rechargeable battery charger (BU-400)
and 4 Ni-MH rechargeable batteries
(BR401) as a pack. This charger can quick
charge Olympus AA or AAA Ni- MH
rechargeable batteries.
s Ni-MH rechargeable battery:
BR401
High-efficiency rechargeable long life
batteries.
s Connecting cord: KA333
Connecting cord which has stereo
mini-plugs (ø3.5) with resistance at both
ends. Use to connect from the earphone
jack output of the recorder to the
microphone input jack when recording.
Converting plug adapters (PA331/PA231)
which convert to the monaural mini plug
(ø3.5) or monaural mini plug (ø2.5) are
also enclosed.
Specifications
General points 4 EAR jack:
ø 3.5 mm mini-jack, impedance 8 Ω or
4 Recording format: more
WMA (Windows Media Audio) 4 Input power requirement:
4 Input level: Batteries: AAA battery (LR03) or
- 70 dBv Olympus Ni-MH rechargeable battery
4 Sampling frequency: 4 External dimensions:
[ST XQ] mode: 44.1 kHz 94.8 mm × 38 mm × 11 mm
[ST HQ] mode: 44.1 kHz (without protrusions)
[ST SP] mode: 22 kHz 4 Weight:
[HQ] mode: 44.1 kHz 46 g (including battery)
[SP] mode: 22 kHz 4 Operating temperature:
[LP] mode: 8 kHz 0°C - 42°C/ 32°F - 107.6°F
4 Frequency response: Guide to recording times
During recording mode
(Microphone jack):
4 WS-560M (Built-in flash memory 4 GB):
[ST XQ] mode: 50 Hz to 19 kHz
[ST XQ] mode: 69 h. 30 min.
[ST HQ] mode: 50 Hz to 15 kHz
[ST HQ] mode: 139 h. 35 min.
[ST SP] mode: 50 Hz to 9 kHz
[ST SP] mode: 278 h. 10 min.
[HQ] mode: 50 Hz to 13 kHz
[HQ] mode: 278 h. 10 min.
[SP] mode: 50 Hz to 7 kHz
[SP] mode: 547 h. 25 min.
[LP] mode: 50 Hz to 3 kHz
[LP] mode: 1,088 h. 05 min.
6
During recording mode
4 WS-550M (Built-in flash memory 2 GB):

Specifications
(Built-in stereo microphone):
80 Hz to 20 kHz [ST XQ] mode: 34 h. 30 min.
During playback mode: [ST HQ] mode: 69 h. 40 min.
20 Hz to 20 kHz [ST SP] mode: 139 h. 25 min.
[HQ] mode: 139 h. 25 min.
4 Maximum working output:
[SP] mode: 247 h. 10 min.
60 mW (8 Ω speaker)
[LP] mode: 544 h. 55 min.
4 Maximum headphone output:
≤
_ 150 mV (according to EN 50332-2) 4 WS-450S (Built-in flash memory 1 GB):
[ST XQ] mode: 17 h. 20 min.
4 Wide band characteristic [ST HQ] mode: 34 h. 45 min.
headphone output: [ST SP]] mode: 69 h. 35 min.
75 mV ≤
_ (according to EN 50332-2) [HQ] mode: 69 h. 35 min.
4 Recording medium: [SP] mode: 137 h. 00 min.
Built-in NAND FLASH memory [LP] mode: 272 h. 25 min.
WS-560M: 4 GB
WS-550M: 2 GB Notes
WS-450S: 1 GB • The above values are strictly rough guides.
4 Speaker: • Available recording time may be shorter if
Built-in ø 16 mm round dynamic speaker many short recordings are made
4 MIC jack: (The displayed available recording time
ø 3.5 mm mini-jack, impedance 2 kΩ and recorded time are approximate
indications). 69
 Specifications

• A maximum recording time per file is Notes

set for each mode. Even if the recorder’s • The above values are strictly rough guides.
memory is not used up, recording cannot
• Battery life is measured by Olympus. It
be continued beyond the limit.
varies greatly according to the type of
Maximum recording time per file batteries used and the conditions of use.
[ST XQ] 26 h. 40 min. Guide to recordable number of songs
[ST HQ] 26 h. 40 min.
WS-560M: 1,000 songs
[ST SP] 53 h. 40 min. WS-550M: 500 songs
[HQ] 26 h. 40 min. WS-450S: 250 songs
[SP] 53 h. 40 min. (At 128 kbps, 4 minutes per song)
[LP] 148 h. 40 min.

Guide to battery life

4 WS-560M/WS-550M ([VOICE]
mode):
WS-450S:
During recording mode:
[ST XQ] mode: 15 h. 30 min.
6 [LP] mode: 21 h.
During voice file playback mode (All
Specifications

Playback Mode):
Alkaline battery
Built-in speaker: 12 h.
Earphone: 26 h.
Ni-MH Rechargeable battery
Built-in speaker: 12 h.
Earphone: 22 h.
4 WS-560M/WS-550M ([MUSIC]
mode):
During WMA file (128 kbps) playback
mode (All Playback Mode):
Alkaline battery
Earphone: 26 h.
Ni-MH Rechargeable battery
Earphone: 22 h.
During MP3 file (128 kbps) playback
mode (All Playback Mode):
Alkaline battery
Earphone: 25 h.
Ni-MH Rechargeable batter
Earphone: 21 h. Specifications and design are subject to
change without notice.
70
For customers in Europe
“CE” mark indicates that this product complies with the European requirements for safety,
health,environment and customer protection.

This symbol [crossed-out wheeled bin WEEE Annex IV] indicates separate collection of waste electrical and
electronic equipment in the EU countries. Please do not throw the equipment into the domestic refuse.
Please use the return and collection systems available in your country for the disposal of this product.
Applicable Product : WS-560M/WS-550M/WS-450S

This symbol [crossed-out wheeled bin Directive 2006/66/EC Annex II] indicates separate collection of
waste batteries in the EU countries. Please do not throw the batteries into the domestic refuse. Please use
the return and collection systems available in your country for the disposal of the waste batteries.
Shinjuku Monolith, 3-1 Nishi-Shinjuku 2-chome, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo 163-0914, Japan. Tel. +81 (0)3-3340-2111
http://www.olympus.com

(Premises/Goods delivery) Wendenstrasse 14-18, 20097 Hamburg, Germany. Tel. +49 (0)40-237730
(Letters) Postfach 10 49 08. 20034 Hamburg, Germany.
http://www.olympus-europa.com

Vision House 19 Colonial Way Watford Hertfordshire WD24 4JL. Tel. +44 (0)1923 831000
http://www.olympus.co.uk

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AP0904