Most oral historians are to one degree or another gearheads. Story-loving, yes, archivists at heart, that too. But eventually they must intersect with recording gear, and have some sense of what equipment they prefer to use, before they can revel in recorded sound as recorded history. Getting to know the gear is cheaper than it used to be, but the surfeit of options keeps the process satisfyingly complicated for those who want to take deep dives. Rather than provide a list of links to gear we like, which will certainly be obsolete within months, we have some generalities to offer up for those looking to build a rig, and trust you'll be able to Google around to find the products mentioned.
- For those beginning the journey, I tend to recommend the Tascam DR line of audio recorders as a good starting point. The DR-40 is a great value at under $200 and reliably delivers audio at up to preservation quality (96kHz/ 24-bit). With serviceable built-in X/Y mics and two balanced inputs for external mics, the recorder offers tremendous flexibility and quality. It can be handheld, mounted on a tripod, set down on a table (although in that case you'd want to put a cushion underneath it if you're using the built-in mics). Zoom's H line of digital recorders is in the same general price range and worth a look.
- For lavalier mics, Audio-Technica offers a number of options under $200. They do have a cheapy line of mics under $50 that you'll want to avoid. I recommend going with a wired rather than wireless mic, to a) save money; b) keep things simple; and c) reduce chances of interference. Since your narrator shouldn't be moving around, a wireless mic is not needed.
- There are lots of good deals on tabletop condenser mics out there that do fine with spoken word, so it's not worth breaking the bank. Samson, Studio Projects, MXL, Behringer... these budget brands can deliver very good audio if used well. Remember to get a stand if you go this route!
- Using your phone as a recorder is fraught with problems, but they're not unsolvable IF:
- Your recording app can record higher resolution audio, meaning a WAV or ogg file that at minimum is 44kHz/16-bit. I don't recommend recording to MP3, but if you do, make sure your app supports high bitrate MP3s, 190 kbps or above, with 44kHz sampling rate.
- You can use an external mic, preferably a lavalier. Recording apps, phones, and mics have different capabilities so this will require some research.
- You block calls and notifications during the interview.
- You have the required space on your phone for large audio files.
- For video, I generally recommend Panasonic or Canon, and there are a ton of choices depending on your needs. Just shooting some video occasionally? Go with a handheld camcorder, like the Canon Vixia line. If you're really looking to do more documentary style, consider a DSLR or a dedicated full-on camcorder in the Panasonic AG line where you also get XLR audio inputs for your mic(s).
- For affordable video production lights, your best bet is to check out companies such as CowboyStudio, who sell through Amazon and who have things like 5600K lights with tripods and reflectors for under $100.