Review: The New SM3BAT From Wildlife Acoustics Part 2 Of 2

Review of the New SM3BAT from Wildlife Acoustics Part 2 Of 2

A weather buoy, miles away from the coast.

It's what I think of, when I think of unattended monitoring solutions. 
In other words - Passive acoustic monitoring systems, such as the SM3BAT, for example. 
When I think of it...I'm reminded of a modern-day weather buoy - Out at sea, diligently recording and reporting the current weather conditions back to it's home base. Able to stave off everything Nature has to throw at it; night after night.

The SM3 Platform - (more specifically the SM3BAT) - An ultrasonic detector, designed and manufactured to perform it's task(s) in any kind of weather. It prompts me of a weather buoy. And, if one were to evaluate such a device - I presume, that many of the same fundamental questions would apply:
A. Does the unit perform it's tasks admirably?
B. Can it do so under duress of inclement weather?
C. What kind of instruments of measurement is it equipped with? And, are they able to withstand adverse weather conditions?
And, finally: How well does the machine perform, overall? Or, in other words - While it is out there, all alone...defiant of all manner of nasty weather...Is it producing accurate results?
Results that are well-organized? Is the resulting data practical, as well as relevant, to the organization that has deployed it?  

In the case of the new SM3BAT, and the SM3 platform in general, the answer is Yes. 
Throughout my extensive testing, in more than one location, I have found this to indeed be the case.

I'm making my best effort, not to re-iterate any of the information which a reader may easily view at The SM3's Introduction Page.

Not only would an individual be able to conveniently deploy an SM3BAT in the field - But, they can fully expect to acquire accurate data, which they can use. With it's 4 SD card slots, The new Song Meter platform is able to collect a huge number of bat calls. This is where the famous speed of The Kaleidoscope software application will prove to be very convenient!
Wildlife Acoustics' Kaleidoscope software also comes in handy, when it comes time to handle a substantial amount of noise (if recording in noisy environments):

As seen in this screenshot - You may choose not to deal with noise at all: Simply un-check (remove the tick) from 'Keep noise files'

As you might expect, The SM3 Platform seems to behave best, when used with Kaleidoscope software. There are advantages in this arrangement, of course. However, I did attempt a short investigation, as to how SM3BAT recordings behaved in other sound applications. And, I have nothing out of the ordinary to report. I simply prefer to use Kaleidoscope software more than the others. I should also inform you, that I have quite a few at my disposal.
The simple fact is - Wildlife Acoustics' Kaleidoscope Pro is #1 on my list (you may click Here for current prices and ordering). 
I've found the system adept at recording bats, and other ultrasonic sounds; while dutifully rejecting, or discarding unwanted sounds (those which are non-biological in origin).
I've found that normal man-made sounds are very frequently rejected; and not recorded by the SM3BAT. When using the settings as per the screenshot above. This is a big plus, as there are recorders in existence which do not differentiate ordinary sounds from ultrasounds.

I'm happy to report, that the SM3BAT doesn't sacrifice sensitivity while achieving it's selectivity. During my tests, it has shown itself to be almost as sensitive as the venerable Batlogger M from Elekon. And that is saying a lot.
I've come to trust The SM3BAT - When I set it up: For a night, several days, or a week's worth of recording - I can trust it, to not miss a bat. I've become very confident in the abilities of this brand-new machine.

The Activity LED may flash green - But, the Song Meter determines whether the sound event should be recorded as noise, etc., or if it was an actual bat call - And be classified as such.  
When checking the recordings/contents of the SD memory card(s): You will find bat calls and other ultrasonic sounds
Using Kaleidoscope software, you may choose to have noise files neatly isolated in their own Folder; if you wish. By ticking 'Keep noise files', of course. You may then view them at your leisure.

Overall: I discovered the SM3BAT to be as sensitive as many top-of-the-range bat detectors I've reviewed. I found it to have very good rejection of normal, undesirable noise. However, while using the factory settings, the SM3BAT is not completely immune to the odd man-made ultrasonic sound every now-and-then. Those with experience, are familiar with what is meant here, so I'll just leave it at that. I will add that (thankfully), airliners and other low-flying aircraft are not picked-up. Luckily, in most woodland areas, this is not a concern.

One must keep in mind, that the SM3BAT is very flexible in it's customizations and settings. I've only scratched the surface of what may be accomplished; by performing most of my tests using the default/factory settings. I expect to perform quite a few more experiments, in regards to microphone/recorder Settings. So, it's very likely that a future blog Post will include my findings.

The SM3BAT system is very versatile. One may become familiar with it's abilities, and adaptability by downloading/reading the User Guide. Some individual Sections which I found particularly interesting include:

Page 27 (Chapter 4) Programs on the SM3BAT
Page 33 (Ch. 5) Using the SM3 Configurator

Slightly more advanced topics may be found in the following Sections:

Page 39 (Chapter 6) Developing Custom Programs
Page 62 (Chapter 9.3) How to measure Microphone Sensitivity

The SM3BAT can be quickly deployed: From opening the box, to set-up at a field location very easily; thanks to pre-programed/default settings set at the factory. I presume that many organizations (performing bat surveys) would find these settings suitable/appropriate. 
And, this would save a lot of time in deployment, for medium to large sized organizations.

I duplicated this very scenario, from the beginning, when I first started my testing. I tested the Song Meter 3 for a considerable amount of time using these factory settings. I found the default settings to be just fine - for my elementary needs. Which (at the time) could've been summed-up as: I wanted to record bats! Only bats! And as many of them as possible!

The front-mounted Check Status button allows you to see the current state of the SM3BAT including: 

* Total battery voltage remaining
* Available memory space remaining on SD cards
* Microphones installed/present, plus the current decibel levels detected
* Internal temperature 

Categories of data shown upon pressing the Check Status button once

Categories of data shown upon pressing the Check Status button twice (quickly)

Pros:

• Quite literally, "Built like a tank" - Enclosure is Die-cast-Aluminum...
• Excellent resistance to unwanted sounds (man-made noise, etc.) 
• Ability to specifically record sounds of several non-bat species: Birds, frogs or insects (with the addition of optional microphones)

Cons:

• Does not feature an external thermometer. Although, it does have an internal one - Measuring (and recording) the temperature inside the unit. Mainly for diagnostic purposes.

• Inability to see how many individual calls (events) have been recorded, just by looking at the screen. However, this ability is not needed on a machine intended to be set-up, and left at a remote location.  

I really like the SM3-U1 microphone; I like the fact that it features a built-in, 4-pole 8kHz high pass filter. Electronics enthusiasts and Sound recording aficionados can appreciate this. 

I like the fact that the enclosure features a (weatherproof) vent, to equalize pressure and prevent condensation from forming inside.

Last, but not least - Here is a spectrogram, of Lasiurus cinereus (Hoary Bat) recorded with The SM3BAT (using all Default Settings). And displayed in Kaleidoscope:

 

 Happy bat detecting!

New EM Touch From Wildlife Acoustics Is Now Shipping! I'm Excited!

In case you're not subscribed to the e-mail Newsletter from Wildlife Acoustics...I've pasted it below:

Echo Meter Touch is shipping!

Several weeks have passed since we began taking pre-orders for the Echo Meter Touch bat detector/recorder/analyzer. Today we're excited to announce that Echo Meter Touch Ultrasonic Module is shipping. If you've placed a pre-order, your Module will ship this week. If you decided to wait, you can purchase one now at wildlifeacoustics.com.

Start using the Echo Meter Touch App right now.

The Echo Meter Touch App is now available from the Apple App Store. Download it via iTunes or directly to your compatible iPhone or iPad. The basic app is free and it includes 2 sample recordings. You can also extend the software's capability via In-App Purchases. Currently we offer Bat Auto-ID and Wi-Fi File Export features via In-App Purchases.

Echo Meter Touch works with iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c, iPhone 5, iPad Air, iPad mini with Retina display, and iPad (4th generation).

If you're not familiar with Echo Meter Touch visit our website or watch the Echo Meter Touch introduction video.

We hope that Echo Meter Touch will become a valuable tool for your bat research and analysis. We're looking forward to hearing your feedback.

Gratefully yours,

Ian Agranat

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Happy bat detecting! 

Review: The New SM3BAT From Wildlife Acoustics Part 1 Of 2

Review: The New SM3BAT From Wildlife Acoustics Part 1 Of 2

If I had to sum up my thoughts, on The new Song Meter SM3BAT as briefly as possible - In one sentence, for instance - I would say: If you are a fan of The SM2BAT, then you will absolutely love The new SM3BAT! The fit and finish of this new Song Meter unit basically reminds me of The Terminator. I believe bullets might have a difficult time damaging this unit! It's nice to see an advanced, Hi-Tech bat recorder built into such a solid enclosure.

What may be an area of concern, for potential owners of this new unit, is it's price. Yes, the price for a new "Standard" SM3BAT is higher than it's predecessor. I've already read some of the rumblings via social media...However, I believe we should keep in mind, that what you are getting, is an entirely new and unique system. What you are also getting, is reliability - As well as an unprecedented, 3 Year Warranty.

As always, I believe we should look at this new offering objectively, with an open mind. If we simply examine the remarkable success of the original Song Meter Platform, it's easy to imagine how it's new big brother will fare.

The Song Meter SM3BAT is by far the most solidly built bat recorder I've ever seen. Which prompts me to imagine an SM3BAT, being passed on - For at least one Generation of Bat Working Professionals!
If a few, simple precautions are taken in the care of the microphones - I simply cannot see why It shouldn't last for many years. As technology progresses over the years, the features and abilities of the SM3 may be easily increased and/or added - Via simple Firmware updates.

So, for Professionals in Bat Research and performing surveys, this is something else to consider. And a good reason why the higher cost-per-unit, may very well pay-off in the end! 

One can easily deduce, that this machine was designed from the ground-up, to compete directly with a lot of the other (similar) systems currently available. Recorders such as: The D500X, The ecoObs Batrecorder 2.0, and The Titley AnaBat SD2. 

A chart will go a long way, towards giving you a "bigger picture" of the machines currently available. And how they stack-up in relation to The Song Meter platform. Click this Link, to see a chart from Wildlife Acoustics. But - Please keep in mind, that this particular chart still features the Original Song Meter (The SM2BAT+).

The reason why I believe this (older) chart is still very useful, is simply this: If the Original SM2BAT compared so favorably with the other machines in the past - Just imagine how much farther ahead of the pack this new advanced SM3 is! 

Perhaps, with other bat recorders (from other manufacturers), there will come a point when the system will need to be sent back: For repairs, updates, etc. History has shown, this has in fact, been the case for more than one of the (other) units on the Chart. I do not anticipate this being the case with the new SM3 platform. So far, all of it's aspects have only proven themselves to be rugged - Both inside and out. This goes for the "brains" of the unit as well; Control Panel, programming, functions, and reliability in performing those programmed functions.

This machine is excellent for those who require multiple-channel recording. Several microphones may be attached, and deployed (using various lengths of optional heavy-duty cables). Each end of the specially-designed microphone cable has a twist-down collar. Now, twisting these collars down will lock the cable; and prevent it from detaching. However, I did not find them to twist down tightly enough, for my (fastidious) taste. I simply prefer things to be a lot more snug.
During this last week of testing, it has done almost nothing but rain in my area. I'm pleased to report, that not a drop of water was found to be anywhere where it shouldn't be. 

Note: As with the set-up of all long-term monitoring solutions: One should always position the microphone(s) at a slight downward angle - To avoid the possibility of water directly bombarding the element inside.

In the past, some SM2 units did experience slight drop-offs in microphone sensitivity, after 2 or more years of being deployed in the field.
I do not see this happening with The SM3 platform. Since the new SM3BAT's standard ultrasonic microphone is built around a completely different core element.  

I recommend having a look at the overview, beginning on Page 3 of the User Guide: "The SM3-U1 uses a high-quality FG microphone element."  This microphone is manufactured by Knowles, the Worlds foremost manufacturer of advanced microphone elements.
You will be happy to learn that there's a Quick Start Guide, right on page 1 of the User's Manual! Also interesting (and recommended) is Page 4 - One-third of the way down "...Auto Set-Up allows you to..." Interesting reading!

Of course, I have a lot more to share, coming up in Part 2 of this review...
In an effort to help the Reader make a choice, for an unattended bat recording solution - I simply don't want to leave any stone unturned. 

The new SM3BAT being un-boxed.

 A Standard SM3BAT Kit

From what I can tell so far, I can't imagine the hardware itself ever needing further attention. Only the occasional Firmware update, which is easily performed by the User (via SD memory card).

In what some might consider a short time (less than a month) I have put this new machine through it's paces, both day and night. And in doing so, have become very familiar with it's operation and performance. As well as it's Pros and Cons, which will be listed in Part 2 of this review. And, will also include, amoung other topics: sonograms, recording performance, sensitivity, technical details, etc., etc.

Note: Directly after (the completion of) this Song Meter SM3 review, I'll be beginning the rigorous testing of the brand-new Echo Meter Touch on an iPad mini Retina! Immediately followed by my review of it! I'll be a busy bee...


Part 2 Of 2 Review Of SM3BAT


Happy bat detecting!

Review: The New BatSeeker1

Review of The New BatSeeker1 

A brand-new bat detector has emerged; to take it's place among the entry-level bat detectors available today. It comes to us from Canada, and it's called The Batseeker1.
It's very reasonably priced, and is also available from Amazon.com 
I was happy to learn of this little ultrasonic detector, just a few weeks ago. If there is one category, where we have too few choices in - It's the realm of entry-level / Beginner's bat detectors. To me, it's like a breath of fresh (Canadian) air. And a relief - Because, this is exactly the kind of detector that a beginner needs. As you might imagine, a question that I'm frequently asked, by those just starting out, is: "Where can I buy an inexpensive bat detector?"
Well, you certainly cannot beat the price of this one, at only $35 U.S.

The unit is very simple. Both in layout and operation. It is very similar to Tony Messina's Simple Bat Detector. It is based on the same design, and is also a FD (Frequency Division) detector. There are several important distinctions, however: The most important one, is that no assembly is required! Tony Messina's Simple Bat Detector is a wonderful, little robust unit - But, only for those of us experienced with a soldering iron. Again, this is why the Batseeker1 is perfect for someone new to bat detecting (who is not inclined to assemble an electronic kit).
Another important distinction, is the size of this new Batseeker1 – It's only 2 1/2 inches long!

The tiny hole, just visible on the front of the unit - Is where the microphone resides

Now, there's no excuse for a budding Naturalist not to own their very own bat detector. 
Using the Batseeker1, is almost the definition of simplicity: Just plug in the included remote speaker, and listen. That's it! Let's break it down into three steps:

1. Install 2 AAA size batteries.
2. Plug in the small speaker (included).
3. Listen for the detected chirp of bats.

Now, all of those seeking an easy-to-use / entry-level bat detector need look no further. So far, I like it very much!

The way that The Batseeker1 gets turned "On" is simply by inserting the remote speaker's plug. It is a standard, 3.5mm, Mono plug. Which when inserted, closes the circuit which powers on the little detector. When finished detecting for the night, simply unplug the speaker to turn Off the detector.

Is it possible for a device to be too simple? ...Well, I'll tell you...Years ago, I used to build The Simple Bat Detector kits, and give them to friends. One of my Naturalist friends, couldn't seem to grasp such a simple concept (the On/Off function). He enjoyed using the detector very much - But, apparently almost always forgot to unplug the earphone when he was finished...Which quickly led to dead/flat 9v batteries.
So, if there is one caveat here, it is: Always remember to unplug the speaker when finished. Or you'll be replacing batteries much more often than necessary.

After quite a bit of testing, and experimentation with many types of batteries: I can tell you that this unit works best, with rechargeable NimH (nickel metal hydride) batteries. Of course, it will work fine with regular alkaline batteries, however they never seemed to last as long.

When opening the battery door, you must push-in a bit (where the thumb grooves are) while simultaneously sliding the door open. It's a bit stiff the first couple of times you open it. The batteries are installed in the usual manner: The Negative (- flat) side of the cell goes against the spring. While the Positive (+) end is seated at the opposite end.

The Microphone used, in the construction of this ultrasonic detector happens to be a good quality MEMs component. Which in layman's terms, simply means: The microphone is not the low-cost variety. And, as a result: it exhibits plenty of sensitivity. 
I've also found that it is truly omnidirectional, easily picking up sounds from behind the unit as well. The Batseeker1 detects ultrasounds from 10-100kHz - Which means that in addition to bats, one may also detect (or record) singing insects. This is always a plus for me.

Cons - At this price point, it doesn't seem fair to nit-pick or "complain" too much, but...

Things that I'd like to see:

* The pick-up range / maximum distance at which ultrasounds are detected: Could stand some improvement. Although, I'm not sure exactly what (if anything) can actually be done (within the confines of such a simple design).
* A small LED - To indicate "On" status: Good. 
* A bi-color LED to indicate activity/bat pass: Even better (I would happily pay $40 for this).
Again, to be fair, these are just luxuries that I'd like to see - The Batseeker1 is still a neat little entry-level ultrasound detector.

In any case, it's still very nice to see a ready-made, FD bat detector available at such a low price. I hope that it's affordability will allow many more Naturalists to try (and enjoy!) bat detecting. 

Since we are still in the grip of Winter, here on (the majority of) the North American Continent...Sadly, there haven't been any bats out yet to test the unit with.
However, I have several "tricks up my sleeve" one of which, is an electronic bat chirp "emulator" (if you will)... Thanks goes to the Folks at Dodotronic for this one! And the Batseeker performed admirably whenever (and wherever) the bat chirper was activated in the vicinity. 

When attaching the Batseeker1 to a recording device (such as a small digital recorder, etc.) remember to always use a Mono patch cable. A Stereo patch cable will not work.
For this review, only "artificial" bat chirps were used. As well as other non-bat ultrasounds. Everything works as it should - And I was happy to see the Batseeker cooperating with the digital voice recorders I used it with. In other words, it looks promising for unattended recording of bats. Overall, I found it very easy to use. And, frequently found myself imagining exactly how a beginner might use it. It lends itself well to being placed outside a window, with the speaker securely resting on a Venetian blind.

I originally intended to write a 'Part 2' to this review; however, I found that there wasn't much more to add.
The unit does pick up bats (and insects). Not at great distances, but that is to be expected at this price point.
I was able to record bat and insect calls - I used high-quality .wav recordings of European bats (and insects) for my testing. The Batseeker1 recorded them, without incident, to my (inexpensive) digital voice recorders (Olympus, Zoom, etc.).
So, it's detecting and recording performance is fine. However, no one would recommend trying to produce any viable (accurate) spectrogram from it. Spectrograms and sonograms may be produced from the recordings, but they cannot be relied upon for accuracy, etc.
The quality of recording needed, to produce real spectrograms simply isn't there. 
But, for a take-anywhere bat detector at a super-low price, you can't beat the Batseeker1.

Happy bat detecting!

Short Review From An Issue of The Wildlife Sound Journal

Just a shortened version of my book review:

Again, I'd like to recommend that you look into The Wildlife Sound Recording Society. A few more article scans to follow ...

Happy bat detecting!

A Journal Entry From The Summer Of 2013...

I was just going over my notes, and various journal entries from last year..

And came across this one, from August 24th, 2013:

"Very interesting night for bat detecting, Here at home, in the Bronx:
According to NOAA: the current weather conditions for the past several hours have been: partly cloudy 71°F, 22°C.
Humidity 53%, windspeed from the northeast 14 mph, barometer 30.12 inches, 2.53°F/12°C. Visibility 10 miles. Current Moon phase is: Waning gibbous 88% full – the moon was nice and bright with patchy clouds moving by.
Bat activity has been steady for at least the past three or four hours. We have had more bat passes/activity tonight – then we have had in a long time.
Having a cigarette, at the front of the house – approximately 1 AM: picked up two bat passes: First pass registered a peak frequency of 47 kHz. Second bat pass was 51 kHz, this latter reading was not confirmed. No bats were visible during either pass. I thought that I may have seen a glimpse of a shadow during the first pass.
After several weeks of bringing the Batscanner with me (during my smoke breaks) this was the very first time, that I have picked up a bat.
The Batlogger M was set up at the back window, From about 8 PM (EST) on...Started with the number of recordings at 258 – we are now at 289, And it is only 1:35 AM...
This is the first time I experienced this kind of regularity and frequency of bat passes.
I am a bit surprised, actually
Overall weather conditions: a very nice night. I've just been simply amazed at the amount of bat activity."

Happy bat detecting!

Shopping For A New Detector?

If you're shopping around for a new bat detector, you may want to have a look at the Wildlife & Countryside Services Site. 

If you do visit, be sure to browse detectors by (clicking on) the name brand. Here is the link to the bat detector section: Link

It will look like this:

Quick Links:

Anabat    Batbox    Ciel    Elekon    Magenta    Pettersson Wildlife Acoustics
Heterodyne    Dual Function    Frequency Division    Multi Mode
Bat Detector/Recorders    Digital Recorders
Sound Analysis Software

 

That way, you'll be able to read an original mini-review of each one.

Happy bat detecting!

Several Mini-Reviews Of Bat Detectors - With Convenient Links To The Full Reviews

More than one Reader suggested, that they'd like to see some of my detector reviews more conveniently located on the Blog. In other words, easier to navigate back & forth from - For ease of comparison, etc. One Visitor, informed me that they had trouble locating reviews of specific bat detectors they were interested in.
So, what follows, are a bunch of Mini-Reviews of bat detectors; with convenient Links to the full Reviews (including a couple of digital recorders at the end). I hope having all of these reviews in one Post proves useful for those trying to decide on a bat detector to purchase.
More than one of the Reviews are of machines that have been discontinued/replaced by newer models. But, I did not omit them, for the sake of completeness.

Beginning with some of the offerings from Wildlife Acoustics:

EM3+: The EM3+ is the latest version of a revolutionary, advanced bat detector which is packed with features. The first (and only) handheld bat detector to have a live spectrogram display. This instrument detects bats in: heterodyne, full spectrum and time expansion. It records bat calls in full spectrum, and zero cross format, with a 16-Bit/384kHz sample rate (which enables recording of Lesser Horseshoe Bats). The calls are conveniently recorded to the (included) SD card, in .wav format. It’s like holding a bioacoustics lab in your hand.

Full Review Part 1 Of 2

Full Review Part 2 Of 2

SM2BAT+: 

The SM2BAT+ is one of the best passive monitoring/recording solutions available. Researchers have used the SM2BAT+ for various studies: Many have been conducted not only for bats, but for birds, singing insects, and amphibians as well. Proof of it’s versatility. Some of it’s unique features are: Two channels for recording bats at two elevations (or locations) simultaneously, coverage may be increased by placing two microphones up at different heights. The system also features very flexible programming options.                                                                                                                     

Compared to the Pettersson D500X, The new SM2BAT+ offers: Double the battery life in full spectrum mode, and 8 times the battery life in zero cross mode. There are more than a few built-in filtering options available. And a fully weatherproof enclosure and microphone(s). All this, for half the price of The Pettersson D500X; I suppose it’s no wonder that over 10,000 units are currently in use around the Globe. Once I became familiar with it’s operation, I found it easy to use and hassle-free, for my nightly recordings.

Full Review Part 1 Of 3

Full Review Part 2 Of 2

Full Review Part 3 Of 3

BatBox Baton: An excellent choice for a Beginner. An easy-to-hold, frequency division detector which features simple, one button operation – Yet has amazing sensitivity, and remarkable performance for it’s price (an excellent value). A digital recorder/audio cable can be added, to get started with recording of bat calls. It is lightweight, sturdy, and very comfortable in the hand. When powered on indoors, a slight hiss is heard from the speaker – I’ve always considered this to be an indication of it’s sensitivity; and have never found it offensive. Also, this is not an issue when outside detecting bats. However, not everyone shares my view on this. This robust little detector is supplied with a copy of BatScan sound analysis software. My unit had served me well, for many years.

Full Review

 

BatBox IIID: A very good quality heterodyne detector. Features a very accurate, digital display (of tuned frequency) with backlight, and the ability to operate/tune the detector with one hand. Excellent build quality; including a sensitive, broadband electret microphone element. The microphone on this unit has a wide bandwidth (greater than 16kHz) which assures excellent response and performance.

BatBox Duet: A favourite amoung many Bat Workers and bat hobbyists. This unit is very popular, and for good reason: It offers the heterodyning ability of the IIID, along with an easy-to-read, digital display with backlight - And adds the ability of frequency division. A voice commentary button for annotating recordings is another highlight. Good choice for recording to digital recorder (for call analysis later).

BatScan Software: This software’s ease-of-use, affordability, and wonderful results make it an ideal choice for hobbyists just starting out. The application displays sonograms, which are easily manipulated, along with the ability to playback (listen to) calls on the spot. May be used on recordings made with many different types of detectors; using several methods. (frequency division and up recommended). Also allows those starting out, the ability to grow with the application (as the more advanced techniques and “tricks” are learned). An ideal choice for Beginners wanting to try examining the sonograms obtained from recorded bat calls.

BatBox Griffin: An amazing machine that comes close to perfection in an advanced bat detector. This is the top-of-the-range detector from BatBox, Ltd. It features an aesthetically pleasing and informative display. Very versatile, allowing bats to be heard using heterodyne, frequency division or binaural mode. This advanced unit records bat calls in time expansion mode, and has many built-in options available. While this unit is advanced, it is also a pleasure to use. It can be set-up for an evening of unattended recording in less than 30 seconds.

Full Review Part 1 Of 3

Full Review Part 2 Of 3

Pettersson D100: I’ve had the opportunity to use one of these units while assisting a Bat Walk. I was very impressed. It’s hard to beat a detector with 3 high-quality microphones! This instrument is equipped with 1 electret (condenser) and 2 ceramic (piezo) microphones, a large front-mounted speaker, with an illuminated section of the frequency dial indicating the tuned frequency.  The D100 is a tunable heterodyne unit, which is able to produce plenty of clear, quality audio – so that everyone in a small group can hear the calls clearly. During my testing: Bats were detected (and clearly heard) even before they were within visual range. Features plenty of sensitivity, high-quality build throughout, and a built-in wrist strap.

D200: Pettersson bat detectors are known for their wonderful-sounding, high-quality heterodyne detectors. As with their other detectors, the D200 has a broad tuning range of 10-120kHz – The ability to tune down to 10kHz, allows one to try their hand at identifying singing insects, if so inclined. Personally, I happen to enjoy listening to (and recording) singing insects. 

D230: Pettersson makes outstanding heterodyne detectors, which produce the most pleasing heterodyne sounds I’ve ever heard. If you are after a high-quality heterodyne, a unit from Pettersson would be hard to beat. The bonus of the this unit, is it’s two instruments in one. While listening through the front-firing speaker: You may choose between heterodyne or frequency division (via a switch on the front). And, if using headphones: Heterodyne portion is heard on the left, whilst frequency division is heard on the right. The D230 is an excellent choice to take along on Bat Walks, it has plenty of (adjustable) volume to spare; allowing small to average-sized groups to hear the calls without difficulty.

Pettersson D240X: This bat detector is practically a legend in it’s own time. This model has been intensely popular amoung Professionals over the years. Don’t be fooled by it’s compact size: The fact that the D240X is small (fits easily in most pockets) almost belies it’s capabilities as top-of-the-range instrument. It allows you to listen to the both the heterodyne, and the time expansion activity going on at the same time (using any stereo earphones). You can hear the heterodyne sounds in one ear and the time expansion activity in the other, simultaneously. Add a digital stereo recorder, and you’re all set.
The single best-sounding heterodyne detector I’ve ever heard. A very capable and sensitive time expansion unit as well. Partnered with a Zoom H2 or H2n = A perfect combination; with well-documented set-up tips easily found on The Web. Confused about set-up? Use my settings! (approved by Mr. Pettersson himself): 

Normal X

Time Exp X

Gain: Low -------------------- (I used to keep it on High (as suggested) but, I thought that I was recording too much noise / non-bat calls, etc.)

Volume: Set to Minimum

Trig: Auto

Trigger Level Source: Low

Source: HF

Mem Size: I set it to either 1.7 Sec or 3.4 Sec.

Full Review

 

Pettersson D1000X: Considered by many (myself included!) to be The King of bat detectors. Each D1000X from Pettersson Elektronik is built to order. For sheer ability, performance, and features - there's no other bat detector that comes close. Frequently selected by Professional Researchers, working on projects where accuracy is paramount.

Elekon Batscanner (The first, Original Version):
I love the very compact size, and comfortable feel it has when held. I really like the green LED display, and the ability to fit this little detector in just about any pocket. I was happy to see a line-out jack: But later learned that it’s for headphones, only. Attempting to record bat calls with this unit will leave you disappointed. As per Elekon: The Batscanner was not designed for recording bat calls.
One can immediately tell how sensitive it is, simply by powering it on, and rubbing your fingers together in front of it. The microphone on this unit, is the now popular MEMs type. When in the field (without any man-made interference nearby): Pressing the power button will cause the unit to display three dashes " - - - " on the LED display. In contrast to powering it on indoors, where it will latch on to whichever electronic signal that reaches it first.
The unit simply displays the last frequency that was detected; until a new bat flies by, within it's range. You can just look at the display and see what the detected peak frequency was.
There is something I don’t like: battery changing. You need a small Phillips head screwdriver, to remove 2 small screws that hold the battery door in place.      

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Please note* The latest version of Elekon's New Batscanner is even better than the original!

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Elekon Batlogger M: I simply cannot say enough good things about this detector. It is simply outstanding, with unprecedented abilities: It can detect – And record bats at greater distances than any other detector I’ve tested. How far? A colleague of mine in Germany, recently tested a Batlogger M to find it able to detect bat signals at distances of over 59 Meters!                                                                 

When it comes to the overall performance of the Batlogger: Many of my Professional Friends concur with my observations. The Batlogger M from Elekon basically gets everything right: Picks up bats from greater distances, produces accurate recordings/sonograms, possesses a super-accurate built-in GPS unit, is packed with features (yet easy to use), has interchangeable (optional) microphones available, the  mic also functions as a temperature sensor (recording Temp. in Celsius), and has one of the loveliest displays I’ve seen on a bat detector. I could go on, and on, but I’m sure you’ve got the point! It’s only competition may come from The Pettersson D1000X: Long considered the King of bat detectors. But, I have not been given the opportunity as of yet…

Cons? Yes: 1. relatively high price. 

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BatExplorer Analysis Software: If you live in Europe or The UK (or surrounding areas) then you must try this software. Where else can you find a bat call analysis software, that is not only free – But also features automatic bat call identification? Software like this is normally very costly. This awesome software package is equipped to automatically identify the calls of bat species that commonly reside in UK & Europe. Being that I live in the USA, I can only make use of the other features (which are substantial nonetheless). One of the downsides to this application, is that it only comes into it’s own when used with Batlogger recordings. It may be used with recordings from other detectors, it just doesn’t speed along as it would had they been made with a Batlogger. The best part is, that you can try it out yourself, at no cost.

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AnaBat SD2 bat detector: This is the latest and greatest offering from Titley Scientific; a company with a long history of building bat detecting systems for Professionals. If you happen across a program on BBC or National Geographic about bats or bat research, chances are you’ll notice the Scientists using a model of AnaBat as their detector. Their strength lies in their proficiency of recording bats in Zero cross mode. AnaBat detectors are not my favorite. I find they require a bit more effort to use than I’m willing to put forth.

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Zoom H1: As a result of being obsessed with bat detecting and recording for many years, I have come to own many digital sound recorders. I’ve owned many of the recorders that are in the same price range as the Zoom H1 – And, frankly the Zoom H1 was always one of my favorites. I have since sold mine in an effort to “thin out the herd” And, I regret it very much. It was very easy to use, with minimal fuss. The only major Con it had, was a built-in speaker with very low volume (difficult to hear). However, the Zoom H1 is excellent value – Having features found only on more expensive recorders.

Zoom H2n: Naturally, this is an even better offering from Zoom, than the Zoom H1. This unit offers outstanding value and happens to be a perfect match, for the D240X. The reason for this is that the original (slightly older model) Zoom H2 was used extensively with the D240X: By both Professionals and Hobbyists. As a result, there is typically a lot of information and well-documented set-up tips easily found on The Web. If you plan to do some recording with your Pettersson D240X, then I’d advise you to look into the Zoom H2n.

Happy bat detecting!