Review: The UltraSoundGate 116Hnm From Avisoft Bioacoustics Part 2 Of 2

Review of the UltraSoundGate 116Hnm from Avisoft Bioacoustics Part 2 Of 2   

One of the things I'd like to try to get across (again), is just how small this unit is. I find it amazing: Such a small device, capable of such amazing data collection. As pointed out, on the manufacturer's site - The unit does feature great craftsmanship and quality materials.

A keen observer might have noticed that Avisoft products are not always mentioned, in the "mainstream" discussions of bat detectors. They are sometimes also missing from many (if not all) bat detector comparison charts. Maybe it's because they are so inherently different than many of their counterparts. Perhaps the reason is that these products are something more, than the typical handheld (top-of-the-range) bat detector. And still, there may be other reasons...

When you purchase this instrument and it's accompanying software, it's as if you're getting a small Bio-acoustic Lab; in a complete kit. As such, a certain level of complexity is to be expected. At the same time, I'm sure that many discerning users would welcome it. In the screenshots below, I've illustrated two of the main dialog screens which a user would be adjusting. Note: These would be fairly typical, of a user interested in recording the echolocation of bats...We should remember, that other wildlife sound recordings may be made with Avisoft devices and software. A user could easily configure several individual .ini files (one for each specific recording purpose) and then choose to load them at at start-up.

Main Configuration Dialog Box

Bat Call Trigger Configuration Dialog Box

Now, if someone were to want try their hand at recording some ultrasonic calls of singing insects, as I did on this particular evening: They might make a few of the same configuration choices as shown below (notice Freq. Range is 5 to 30kHz).
Note: These windows would each be opened and configured separately (one-at-a-time). 
I have deliberately opened both, and made one screenshot:

These are just a few simple examples of the many possibilities and combinations available, when it comes to software configuration.

When ordering the USG116Hnm, you have a couple of models to choose from:
One is provided with a built-in 'EP3' electret microphone (part#31180). The other with a Knowles FG (part #31179) microphone.

Again, I would urge those who are interested, to visit the USG 116Hnm page, and go over the specifications of the devices right on the Avisoft Site.

There have been a few occasions, when other (high-end) detectors under test detected/recorded bats - While the Avisoft did not: But, this may be traced back to "User Error" in configuration. In other words, my 'Threshold' (and other settings) were not set at their optimum levels (at that point in time). But again, all things considered, it's always performed very well.

For my tests, the unit has always had plenty of sensitivity to spare - Just as sensitive as several of the other top-of-the-range, 'Alpha' detectors.

If Batman were to be seen using a detector, it might be the USG 116Hnm! The New Black model pictured below:

I'll probably be be following-up soon, with a post discussing the formidable software that is provided with the UltraSoundGate Series of devices - To cover some more aspects of Recorder USGH -and- Avisoft-SASLab Lite, screen capture shown below:

Until then, Happy bat detecting!

Review: The UltraSoundGate 116Hnm From Avisoft Bioacoustics Part 1 Of 2

Review of the UltraSoundGate 116Hnm from Avisoft Bioacoustics Part 1 Of 2

"Big things come in small packages"

I'm happy to report, that I had the opportunity to test and review the very latest ultrasonic device from Avisoft Bioacoustics - UltraSoundGate 116Hnm   

 

Pictured above, is the USG 116Hnm, next to a CF Memory Card for scale

The USG 116Hnm, is a brand-new device that has recently been completed and released by Avisoft Bioacoustics. The new loaner unit for test arrived to me (here in the U.S.) from Germany, very quickly - It took less than a week. I was pleasantly surprised, to receive the small package so soon. It was packaged in it's protective foam-lined carry case, and then in sturdy cardboard, held in place by strong plastic wrap. Many of you may recall receiving new books in the mail packaged in a similar fashion.

Along with the adorable little carry case (which contains the unit & it's cable), the package comes with: A small, spiral-bound User Manual, a unique USB device containing various software: Additional User Manuals (in PDF format), and a myriad of other "goodies". A brochure (which serves as an overview guide), patches of "hook & loop" fasteners (Velcro) - For attaching the USG 116Hnm to your computing device/tablet PC. See photo below:

The unit is intended (primarily) to be used on conveniently portable tablet PC's. For the test unit, I used my Asus Eee PC Seashell Series Netbook. Ultra-portable machines such as the Intel StudyBook L07 and the Lenovo ThinkPad 2 are pictured on the Avisoft Site. And, they look great with the addition of a USG 116Hnm! Not compatible with iPads, however. So, the bottom line is, that this unit is best suited with many of the (PC-based) Tablet computers currently available.

Here's the (preliminary) scoop: I really like this unit - Primarily because of it's size. I regard it as an ultra-portable bioacoustic lab. Essentially, that's exactly what it is.

Ultrasound recording instruments from Avisoft Bioacoustics are designed to meet the discriminating needs of Professionals. They are competent instruments, for serious applications. As for versatility and functionality they have no equal.

The software that controls these ultrasonic recording devices is also very adaptable. It is also not for the faint of heart. Being a proficient computer operator, will help the user take full advantage of these products. The old cliche of "The software controls the hardware" has never been more relevant.

For example, consider the (included) comprehensive Avisoft Recorder software: When you first become acquainted with it, you will discover what seems like an unending number of configuration choices. To the uninitiated, it may even seem overwhelming at first. It is as versatile as any software package I've ever seen. And, having been a Computer Systems Analyst, I've seen more than most.

Of course it should go without saying, but... reading and understanding the User Manual(s) is imperative. 
Note that the Avisoft Recorder software will not launch unless the USG device is plugged into your computing device.

Getting Ready For Some Bats:

Notice the little "protective veil" that I use, if it's drizzling and/or windy

(I'm simply fastidious with audio devices and a bit overprotective sometimes) 

The step-by-step software installation process, is found in the beginning of the (paper) User Manual. The manual is conveniently sized; and more importantly features easy to follow instructions.

The Avisoft Recorder software installs easily, with minimal effort. Once the Recorder software is installed, you may plug the USG 116Hnm into an available USB port on you computing device. Give it just a moment (for the processes to finish working in the background) and, you will see a message informing you that the USG 116Hnm has been detected/installed correctly.

You may now proceed to:

Launch the Recorder USGH software.

Make the basic selections, such as which device you're using, etc.

Check and adjust other software settings.

Enable the 'Bat Call Trigger Filter', adjust settings, etc.

Start recording 

(clicking the Pause button first is recommended, clicking it again when ready to record). 

As with all things, it will just take some getting used to: After repetitive use, and in a short time, you'll feel like a Pro.

Regarding the software in operation, you will see the abbreviation 'TRG' popping up, directly above the scrolling sonogram screen. This abbreviation pops up to indicate that an event was triggered and recorded. This is the indicator of trigger events which are currently taking place. It is in operation whether the Pause is on or not. This is neat, because you can judge the amount of triggers that are happening, whether you're recording or not. In addition, the unit itself features an orange LED indicator lamp, which lights up - As another visual indication that recording is taking place. Personally, I've always been fond of LED indicators.

The other crucial feature, is the trigger event counter - which indicates how many triggered events have taken place (the number of recordings). Displayed on the upper, right-hand side of the screen in bold, black fonts:

The new UltraSoundGate 116Hnm kit starts at only 1600 Euros (for the model tested).   

Several products produced by Avisoft Bioacoustics, which are intended to be used for bat detecting/recording, are typically priced similarly to the high-end detectors offered by others.
The exception to this, would be their UltraSoundGGate 116Hm and UltraSoundGate 116Hme devices, which are their flagship instruments for bat recording (these models are top-of-the-range). And so, their prices range from 5000 to 5700 Euros (depending on options). From what I've seen and read, regarding these devices: They are absolutely brilliant research-grade instruments. 

I had the opportunity to partially review two other devices from Avisoft Bioacoustics, in the past: The UltraSoundGate 116Hnb with EP3 electret and USG 116Hn kit with CM16/CMPA. Those two models are also in the approximate price range. Starting at $2100 Euros.
Link to my mini-review Here.

Something else I really like: The ability to hear bat calls in heterodyne technique.
Just because you've moved up, from the less-expensive bat detectors, doesn't mean that you have to "give up" the splendor of listening to your bat calls in heterodyne mode. Many people (myself included) enjoy the pleasure of being able to listen to bat calls in heterodyne fashion: Basically the ability to hear what is being picked up by the microphone unit, very close to real-time. The delay is only a very small fraction of a second, and is inconsequential.

The Avisoft Recorder software is configurable to meet any and every individual's requirements - With the potential for many different owners/users, to have just as many unique set-ups. 

How does it perform? Well, setting aside the fact that the kit offers a myriad of different set-up possibilities and optimizations - Generally, I've always found it to perform quite well indeed.
So far, results compare favourably with other high-end detectors of similar price. I'll expand more on this, in Part 2.

With so many facets of the system at your control, it's difficult to find fault with this kit.

Pros:

• Extremely compact / Ultra portable. 
• Very advanced system, for serious bioacoustic work.
• Suitable for recording vocalizations of many different animals (not just bats).
• Derives power from your computing device.
• Produces superior sonograms, with accuracy to spare.

 Cons: 

• Does not function as a stand-alone instrument, must be coupled to a computing device.
• May be costly for those who don't already own a Netbook, or (smaller) Tablet PC.
• Software is not for Beginners, of benefit only to those well versed with computer software. 

Below are a couple of sonograms of Big Brown Bats (Eptesicus fuscus), produced with the USG 116Hnm, and displayed with RavenLite: 

 

Big Brown Bat using RavenLite

Big Brown Bat using RavenLite

Well, since there will be a bit more to cover - This review will continue with Part 2 Of 2. 

Happy bat detecting!

Spring Issue Of The Journal of The Wildlife Sound Recording Society

The Journal Of The Wildlife Sound Recording Society Volume 13 No 1

The Spring 2013 issue of The WSRS's Journal arrived in my mailbox the other day.
I had originally planned to submit a bat detector review (or two) to the Editor, but was not able to complete the editing and submit them in time.

What I did have an opportunity to submit, was a slightly edited/polished version of my recent book review.
My mini-review of British Bat Calls; Which was also posted here on the blog, a while back.



Well, in any case, I'm happy to have it appear in the Journal - So, below is a scan of the WSRS Version:

Well, needless to say, I won't miss another opportunity to submit a bat detector review to The WSRS Journal. There are actually a few that I'm currently working on for submission. Among the next review(s) I'll be submitting will be: The Batlogger M from Elekon, and The USG 116Hnm from Avisoft Bioacoustics.

The next review (currently working on) is of the UltraSoundGate 116Hnm from Avisoft Bioacoustics.
I'm very excited about this unit - And I am really looking forward to sharing my findings and experiences.
I consider it an exceptional, and progressive system. Perfectly suited for those with more advanced requirements and dynamic needs; such as Bat Researchers, etc.

Happy bat detecting!

A Couple Of Outstanding, Informative Links -Plus- Hints Of What's To Come

I must confess, I had glanced over this Sample text before - Never actually reading it, only skimming over it. Shame on me! A Reader pointed it out to me, in a comment.
And, after reading it, I feel compelled to share it.
The excellent content of this (little) Sample, is a must read. Here is a link to the Sample: Article Summary
I've read the actual (full) Article, and it is wonderful! In my testing and comparisons, I have come to the same conclusions that these Professional Authors have. 

The bat detecting products offered by Avisoft Bioacoustics and The Batlogger M from Elekon AG are the best of the best.

...Well, although the cat's out of the bag...I do have an upcoming post, that I'm working on, entitled "Bat Detectors: The Best Of The Best" And, in the ~ $2,000 U.S. price range; I'll also be including: 
The Griffin from BatBox Ltd.
The D500X from Pettersson Elektronik

A full review of the New Batlogger M, from Elekon is also in the works, you won't want to miss it!

Here is a wonderful PDF from Avisoft Bioacoustics. Not only are their products World-class instruments (they invariably produce outstanding results)...But, I always find them wonderful to look at as well! As some of you may already know, I have a penchant for a lot of the facets of bat detectors - Not the least of which, is the way they look! What can I say? I adore bat detectors :)

Bat detecting season is upon us!

Happy bat detecting!

New Ultrasonic Microphones from Avisoft Bioacoustics

USG 116Hnb kit with EP3 electret and USG 116Hn kit with CM16/CMPA microphones from Avisoft Bioacoustics

Many of you may already be familiar with Avisoft Bioacoustics, a manufacturer of high-end bioacoustic recording equipment. I've had the exciting opportunity to test and review two of their brand new, low cost 'Nano' units. Although they may still be considered far from beginner's units (especially with regards to price), I believe experienced Sound Recordists will really like these new kits. Although we've all heard it many times, it bears repeating here: "you get what you pay for" And, this is certainly the case when it comes to these new offerings from Avisoft.
In this case, to give you an idea, of the quality and craftsmanship that goes into each of these units; I'll put it this way: If Sound Devices made bat detectors, they would probably look like these!
Two new kits have just been released, from the Folks at Avisoft. One is the USG 116Hnb kit with EP3 electret microphone, the other is the USG 116Hn kit with CM16/CMPA. These are brand-new recording devices, released this year. These can only be used with the bundled Avisoft-RECORDER USGH software.
As per Raimund Specht, of Avisosft - There will be two different versions:

Part #31170, USG 116Hnb kit with EP3
max sample rate: 300 kHz
electret microphone EP3 (without mic extension cable)
no polarization voltage generator (can be added on request)
fixed gain
Price : 1400 Euros + VAT & customs charges

Product Page 116Hnb

Part #31172, USG 116Hn kit with CM16/CMPA
max sample rate: 750 kHz
with polarization voltage generator
CM16/CMPA condenser mic including 2 m extension cable
gain adjustment knob
Price : 2600 Euros + VAT & customs charges
Note that the CM16/CMPA condenser microphone can only be used with the model 116Hn. The less expensive model 116Hnb does not have the required polarization voltage generator (which could however also be added on request).

Product Page 116Hn

The manuals are available online at

User Guide 116Hnb (PDF)

User Guide 116Hn (PDF)

RECORDER Software Guide (PDF)

You can watch and analyze the recorded .wav files with the free SASLab Lite software that is available from

Setup (Exe)

The USG 116Hnb kit with EP3 electret microphone kit, is very compact; so it's very portable. It was the first unit to the "test bench". It is supplied in a nice foam lined carry case, along with a gold-plated USB cable. An XLR extension cable was also provided, with the review samples, to facilitate remote placement of the actual mic units.

The Avisoft recording software is amazing, and exactly what one would expect from a world-class bioacoustic lab. While it has enough features to keep one busy experimenting for weeks, it also is not difficult to get up and running. However, I must stress; that it is imperative that you read the User Guide. You will not be able to make any successful bat recordings without consulting the manual, for software configuration.
Along with a full, spiral-bound User's Guide; the recording devices are supplied with a pamphlet-style User's Guide. This is similar to a "Quick-Start" Guide and is very convenient for quick reference. But again, make sure that you keep the full-sized User Guide close by. Installation of the software and hardware is fairly easy. A unique business-card-sized USB drive is provided, which is loaded with Avisoft software, and a bat call library.

Unfortunately, I had nothing but non-stop rain and wind during the evaluation period. So, sadly, I cannot comment on the actual performance of the prototype kits that I was supplied with.
But, these are definitely bat detectors to keep an eye on, for the near future.