Review: The New Songmeter SMZC Recorder From Wildlife Acoustics Part 2 Of 3

Review: The New Songmeter SMZC recorder from Wildlife Acoustics Part 2 Of 3

Welcome to Part 2 of 3, of the new Songmeter SMZC recorder review. Let's start, by going over some of this machine's main features:

The new SMZC from Wildlife Acoustics is built tough. There are no "weak links" to worry about on it. I like the fact, that even the (already robust) Mic element, is covered by a thin, felt-like material. This is a simple way to keep any debris from ever coming in contact with the microphone. I sometimes wish that other manufacturers (of bat detectors) would do the same thing.
It's very easy to use - Install batteries, and you're almost half-way done.
The recorded bat calls are easily transferable to your laptop, via the (included) SD memory card.
This machine will allow you to record bat activity, for about 40 nights! (per set of fresh batteries)
Priced at just $649 U.S., it is positively, one of the most economical un-attended solutions available. The price will be attractive to many in the field of Bat Ecology.

For those using Kaleidoscope Software, who need to manipulate the ZC recordings - There are a lot of things you can do: Chief among these, is the ability to easily convert the Zero cross recordings of The SMZC to .wav files - For playback and analysis.
 
Note: Way back in the "early days" of zero-crossing technology - The process, of simply playing the recordings back, might have been considered a bit convoluted (by today's standards).

The ideal buyer might be someone who needs to deploy several recorders, in various locations - And, needs to do it quickly.

In use, The SMZC seems to have a respectable pick-up range. There is a PCB mounted, 3.5mm earphone jack located inside the SMZC box. This is provided so that you can listen to the sound input while recording; this may be used for live monitoring, to check the status of the microphone, perform test recordings, etc.

If you would like to do a bit of quick monitoring, in the field -
Just plug a pair of earphones/headphones into the 3.5mm jack, and listen for yourself -You'll notice that the omni-directional microphone is picking up everything!
{As per WA's Site: "If you need to ensure that your recorder is operating properly, the Song Meter SMZC has an integrated earphone jack inside the enclosure. Simply open the lid and plug in ear buds or headphones to monitor."}
Of course, thresholds/triggers can always be adjusted as necessary. 

  
The unit can be permanently mounted to a flat surface (or, on trees of various sizes) using any of the various built-in screw holes. These holes will (more than likely) be used to secure the SMZC to a tree, using several of the common best-practices in use today.
And, at this point, I must also mention (as a reminder) the available options and accessories

With the top cover safely closed-up, in preparation for mounting/deployment - The green LED light will be visible to you, so that you can get feedback before, during, and after the unit is mounted:
- A steady blinking: Indicates the unit has started it's scheduled program; and will be recording when the (appropriately set time arrives). Again, it basically serves as an all-systems-go indicator. I would like to have seen a built-in diffuser (as seen used on The SM3, and other units). It informs you that the system is awake, and will be actively monitoring when the time you've specified rolls around.

One of the best places to order the new Songmeter SMZC, is from Wildlife Acoustics themselves.

Part 3 Of 3 of this review (the final installment) will also include sonograms, and screen captures. 
Happy bat detecting!

Review: The New Songmeter SMZC recorder from Wildlife Acoustics Part 1 Of 3

Review: The brand-new Songmeter SMZC zero crossing recorder from Wildlife Acoustics Part 1 Of 3

This Part 1 Of 3, will serve as an Introduction / Prelude of The new SMZC. Part 3 will feature the screenshots, sonograms, recordings, and other colorful goodies...

The New SMZC is the latest unattended bat recording solution from Wildlife Acoustics. It combines small size (especially for an un-attended/tree-mount unit) with a very competent zero-cross technology recorder. An informative (back-lit) LCD display, status LED (where would we be without LEDs?), and GPS capability round out The SMZC's main features.
Some of the very first pictures I took of this new Songmeter, may be seen on this Post.

The Songmeter SMZC might be considered a "smaller sibling" to The SM3BAT (also from Wildlife Acoustics). One of the main differences, is that this machine records in zero crossing mode only. Whereas in The SM3BAT, zero crossing mode is an available option. 
It seems to me, that there is definitely a demand for such a machine. A lower-cost ZC recorder, which may be confidently deployed as a rugged, unattended monitoring solution for bats. From what I've seen and read: Many companies who need to perform unattended bat surveys, are in need of exactly these types of features.
The lower cost translates to more remote units in the field - Which in turn, translates into more data collected. When it comes to unattended monitoring of bat activity - One could pair this SMZC up with their Kaleidoscope software, and have a powerful combination for the accurate collection (and processing) of data.

Of course, I was very curious about this new machine from the very beginning - Back when I first learned of it's evolution and progress. I wasn't sure exactly what to expect with The SMZC, but after some thorough testing, I haven't found much about it that I don't like.

Initially my main concern, was the fact that The SMZC is a zero-crossing recorder - Now, the zero-crossing technique may have it's place in the world of bat recording...It's engineered to help Ecologists and Bat Workers. However, I've never found bat recorders using this method to be very exciting.
I've collected (and analyzed) many zero-cross recordings over the years. Most of them, were produced while testing The AnaBat SD2. Analyzing and playing the sounds back, was not exactly exhilarating; regardless of the software used (of those available at that time).
In other words, quite stale and boring - Especially when compared to what we have available today! Of course, this is not to say that bat call analysis should be exciting; just that I happen to prefer it that way. If working with bat recordings makes-up a large part of your career, then perhaps this is also true for you? 

Software like Kaleidoscope allows one to display bat calls in a dozen different (and useful) ways. And it does this quite easily, I might add.
I've often wondered: How could anyone actually prefer a black-on-white display, over a full-color Hanning representation? Putting aside the aesthetics, color representations of bat calls are (scientifically) much more significant; to say the least. More on this topic in Part 2...

This new SMZC has actually changed the way I look at the zero-crossing recordings of bats - Literally. I believe the "secret" (for my renewed interest) is in the way their Kaleidoscope software handles the recordings. It was a bit of a surprise to me. 

However, I suppose it was the ease with which one can playback a bat call, which opened my eyes to the usefulness of zero crossing. Using Kaleidoscope software, that is.

The new Songmeter SMZC arrives just as well-packaged as any of the other products from Wildlife Acoustics.

Unpacking The SMZC:

In it's (optional) mounting bracket (prior to installation of the easy-open latch).

Pictured above, is a snapshot I took while unpacking the new loaner unit. It was so new, that the easy-open handle was not attached yet. I received one of the very first production units as a test loaner. This was long before The SMZC had gone into full-production.
Since then, the latch has been installed (by me) and is pictured below, just for reference.

Songmeter SMZC

I must state that I like this new unit! It's small size (11.5" x 5.0" x 2.75") makes it very easy to handle. It's manageability makes it easy to set it up, especially for some spontaneous bat recording sessions.
For example, I was fortunate enough to have this machine with me, on a trip to the Lake George (NY) area.
We stayed at a wonderful cabin on a river; and I was able to (easily) place The SMZC on a table (on the back deck) facing the river. Leaving it there to simply record bats overnight, provided me with lots of great recordings. These will be shared in Part 3 of this review...

The view from behind the cabin

(taken with a P&S digital cam)

It's probably safe to say, that this newest Songmeter from Wildlife Acoustics wasn't designed so that bat detecting Hobbyists could make impromptu recordings...The reality is, The SMZC is a serious unattended recording solution, devised to meet the needs of Bat Workers and Ecologists Worldwide. It's designed to be professionally set-up (deployed) and allowed to monitor and record bat activity, for about a month (before collecting the SD memory card[s] containing the data).

At this point, I'll share the link, to the easy-to-read Comparison Chart, provided by Wildlife Acoustics.

It's plain to see, that Wildlife Acoustics has been listening to those who routinely survey bats, and have developed a new solution from the ground-up. The SMZC is designed to collect large amounts of recorded ultrasonic bat calls. Historically, zero-crossing technology has always been selected, whenever large quantities of ultrasonic recordings were expected. This is because ZC bat recordings consume much less memory space than almost* (any) other bat recording method.
Note: I've indicated * "almost" because there are, in fact, some other recording methods out there, which take even less (memory) space.

SMZC with backlight lit/showing Status

I really like the ease with which an SMZC can be deployed. Very simple set-up; with Menus and commands which are nearly intuitive. This is more of what an un-attended recording solution should be like:

• Robust (fully weather-resistant)
• Easy to program (right out-of-the-box)
• Capable of storing very large amounts of data (recordings)
• Makes working with ZC recordings easy

If you need to deploy several recorders, in various sequestered locations - And, you need to do it quickly - The Songmeter SMZC would probably be the machine you choose.

The price, may also be attractive, to many in the field of Bat Ecology: Currently $649 (US Dollars).

One of the best places to order the new Songmeter SMZC, is directly from Wildlife Acoustics themselves. However, depending on your location in the World, you may find a better deal from Authorized Resellers in your Country.

Much more to follow in Part 2 Of 3...

Review: Brand-New Stereo Batscanner From Elekon AG Part 2 Of 2

Review: The new Stereo Batscanner - Scanning bat detector from Elekon Part 2 of 2

The current User Manual, is a straightforward, one page document (now available in pdf format Here). It is currently available in both the English and German language.

I'll admit, I do not have a lot of experience using Stereo bat detectors - But - Testing Elekon's new Stereo Batscanner (on a recent field trip) was a real pleasure.

I was pleasantly affected with this new Stereo Batscanner, right from the start. Having a sensitive, high-quality microphone on each side of the unit, makes it twice as hard to miss any foraging bats.

An FG Knowles Mic on each side (Port & Starboard):

Above the detector in this Pic, is a (high-quality) right-angle stereo adapter. Along with a (shielded) Stereo patch cable (for connection to a recording device). Both are 3.5mm.

The 3.5mm audio output jack, is located at the front & center of the bat detector. A right angle (male-to-female) stereo adapter (like the one pictured above) may help to keep things neat. These may be found/purchased separately, 
As many are already aware, The FG Knowles microphone element(s), such as those used in The Stereo Batscanner are rather robust. In other words, they are quite tough. Their small, dainty appearance might lead one to presume they are delicate - But, this is not the case. Even so, I rather wish there were something there to protect the Mic...Perhaps a thin circle of (acoustically-inert) Felt/material.

There is no denying, that the Stereo Batscanner is unique. The only other (popular) Manufacturer producing stereo bat detectors, is Ciel (in Germany).

The Batscanner Stereo (in the dark)

  
In use - The best description I can offer, in one word is: Pleasant. I envision experienced Bat Workers enjoying the sounds of bats foraging, in stereo. In heterodyne mode, mind you; considered by most (experienced bat listeners) to be the most pleasant mode in which to listen. I'll take this opportunity to remind the reader, that even with the year 2015 approaching, there are still those who enjoy the simple pleasure of listening to bats. In heterodyne mode.
Have a listen yourself, to a quick & easy recording I made below:
(The Stereo Batscanner was connected to a Tascam DR-08 via a stereo patch cable)

Can you tell which direction the bat is flying from? 

The point is, that this detector is of value to both the Hobbyist (who, for example) may not be overly concerned about which direction the bat began it's flight from -To- The Professional, just starting out (with Surveys, etc.) -To- The seasoned Professional, who will be able to easily confirm the bat's direction of flight. -Or- even an individual who prefers to use it outside of work; just relaxing in the back garden. I'm sure the market for potential owners doesn't end there...

Pros -

• Stereo!
• No tuning needed - Scanning Heterodyne.
• Wonderful, small size - Fits in a pocket!
• Relatively long battery life.
• Easy to record from, for unattended monitoring.

Cons -

• Slightly higher price than some other detectors.

Thank you, to Elekon AG, for the loan of the new Stereo Batscanner.
I understand, that there have been a few (minor) improvements made, since the very first prototype was released. Perhaps I'll be re-visiting one of the very latest (full-production) Stereo Batscanner units in the future?

In any case, I am planning to add more recordings -and- a couple of sonograms to this post, in the near future.

Until then...

Happy bat detecting!

Up next, will be a Review of The New SMZC Songmeter platform from Wildlife Acoustics.
Followed by a Review of the new M500 USB Mic from Pettersson.

Review: Brand-New Stereo Batscanner From Elekon AG Part 1 Of 2

Review: The brand-new Stereo Batscanner - Scanning bat detector from Elekon AG

It's finally been announced & released! I'm very happy to report, that I've had the opportunity to test (and use) the new Stereo Batscanner from Elekon for months now...And now, since Elekon AG has announced it - I'm finally able to share my thoughts.

This turned-out to be a very fortunate situation; the timing was perfect, since I was able to test the new detector on one of my recent "mini field trips". We travel to a location (not too far from here, actually), where the bats are even more plentiful (and diverse) than those I routinely record at home.
The result, was a digital recorder full of stereo recorded bat calls! I used my ultra-portable Tascam DR-08 recorder. 

The new Batscanner Stereo, shown with stereo patch cable

(notice LED indicator near 'A', representing Auto Mode)

While on-site, at the "batty" location, a substantial amount of time was spent testing The Stereo Batscanner. The first half, of this particular test session was devoted to testing the new unit's general abilities, as a hand-held bat detector (before hooking it up to the digital recorder, via a stereo audio cable).
It was a real pleasure to use. Of course, there were many (general) similarities to the original Batscanner. The exciting part, was hearing the bats as they flew from Point A to Point B. This new stereo Batscanner adds a wonderful, new dimension  to bat detecting:

A user is able to determine the direction of flight of the bats, as they are being detected.
This can be accomplished by using your ears - And/or your eyes:

• The front-mounted speaker produces enough clear audio, to allow most (experienced) bat chasers to actually determine the origin of the calls, as a bat flies from left to right (or vice-versa). 
• The (very clever) LED indicators on the front panel (below the frequency readout) also indicate which (of the two) microphones are detecting ultrasounds. Very neat!

So, if you cannot decide which direction the echolocation's are coming from, using just your ears...You will be able to determine which direction they're coming from using your eyes!

I found, that simply listening to the foraging bats, was very enjoyable with this new stereo Batscanner. I believe that many experienced detector users will also find this new Batscanner a joy to use. It has all been very exciting for me.

The new Stereo Batscanner arrived promptly from Elekon AG, in it's typical box (packaging) which may be seen below:

 The Stereo Batscanner, in it's box as received (via UPS)

I love the small size and weight of this unit. It's very similar to the original (Mono) Elekon Batscanner. It's nice to have such a capable bat detector in such a small, and easy-to-hold enclosure.

 The battery compartment

The new Stereo Batscanner is also available from NHBS:


 
Features - The new, Stereo Batscanner from Elekon is a scanning, heterodyne bat detector. As it's predecessor, it automatically scans the detecting area for any ultrasonic bat calls - When it detects the ultrasound of a bat's echolocation, it stops scanning, and displays the peak frequency of the detected call.
During my testing, I found the unit's ability to display peak frequencies of the detected bats to be quite accurate. While simultaneously using high-end bat recording systems, to confirm. 

The Stereo Batscanner is super-easy to use: It powers On, by depressing two buttons on the unit: The Power-On -and- Volume Up buttons. This design (also present on the original Batscanner) prevents the unit from being turned-on accidentally. While in transit, in a pocket, etc.

This detector has the potential to suit a variety of different owners: From Beginners just starting-out, to experienced "veterans" (Hobbyists), to even Professional Bat Workers who would like a comfortable, easy-to-use detector for quick listening sessions, etc.

You can tell which direction the bats are flying from, even from the recordings. Very nice.
I intend to post the various stereo recordings, in the up-coming Part 2 Of 2 of this review.

There is much more to follow, in Part 2...
  
Happy bat detecting!

Review: The AR125 From Binary Acoustics Technology

Review: The AR125 From Binary Acoustics Technology - A Re-Visit Review For 2014

So, I've actually written a (somewhat brief) 2-Part Review of The AR125 Ultrasonic Receiver before (approximately one year ago): 
Part 1 (2013)
Part 2 (2013)

Why a Re-Visit Review now? Well, there are two reasons:

1. After witnessing the wonderful performance of The MiniMIC from Binary Acoustic Technology, I began to wonder if there was something I missed (when I originally tested their AR125). After all, The AR125 Receiver is described (on B.A.T.'s Site) as having the ability to pick up bats at "...distances up to several hundred feet" 

2. I've decided to begin writing Re-Visit Reviews of several (previously reviewed) bat recording devices. I hadn't originally planned to begin with The AR125, it's just they way things turned-out.

The AR125 Ultrasonic Receiver is a directional bat detector, which utilizes a wideband ultrasonic element. It does not have an omnidirectional microphone.

Packaging is still the same:The receiver arrives very well protected. The unit itself (with handle removed) weighs in at almost 16 ounces.

The current price (direct from Binary Acoustic Technology) is $1095.
You can have a look at the spec sheet Here (PDF format).  

At first glance, some have said that it looks like the radar gun used by Police to catch drivers speeding. It's very easy to use, simply point it in the direction of suspected bat activity. It may be mounted on a standard Photo tripod, and aimed at any area of suspected bat activity.

The ideal buyer, would be someone who does roost surveys. But, of course, there are many other uses.
This product would be good for anyone who need to focus on a particular area, when making their ultrasound recordings.

With The AR125, the (ABS plastic) handle may be removed.
Now that I've reviewed two samples of this unit, I can advise, that the method of handle attachment may vary.

The unit is connected to your (PC-based) computing device, via (the included) USB cable. Installation of software and drivers is very straightforward, without any issues.
Once you're connected, you have control of a directional, ultrasonic microphone - Via a medium-sized (default) Dialog box.

Accuracy is very good, but sensitivity isn't as good as expected. In other words, when it records a bat - It will register/reproduce the sound faithfully. But, it doesn't pick-up (detect) as many bats as say...The new Pettersson M500 (which I've pitted it against several times).
The Pettersson M500 may be used as a directional bat detector, by attaching the small cone (provided).

I've always "got to call 'em as I see 'em". And, lately, I've had to report some harsh realities here on the Blog. There's a limit to how diplomatic I can be.  

Pros - 

• Accurate.
• Very good rejection of non-bat sounds.
• Very convenient to mount and aim.

Cons - 

• Only records strong bat calls.
• Pick-up pattern is very directional.
• Range is not nearly as far as advertised.

The AR 125 may be ordered, directly from Binary Acoustic Technology Here.

I'm very happy to have had the opportunity to Re-Review The AR125. This review will be updated and revised as needed.

Happy bat detecting!

Review: The MiniMIC From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 3 Of 3

Review: The MiniMIC From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 3 Of 3

What we have established (in Parts 1 & 2 of this review), is that The MiniMIC is not only a very capable ultrasound recording solution, but it may interest you to know, that it is even more capable than most. 

To answer a question which a few Bat Workers/Professionals have had: Yes, it must be plugged-in to a PC of some kind. Whether it be laptop, sub-notebook, or hand-top computer.
Again, installation is Plug-and-Play.

The MiniMIC can be used as one would use a "standard" bat detector/recorder. The key, to using it comfortably, is to use one of the latest PalmTop/Handtop PC's. Many of them are very neat, compact and easy to handle. 
In fact, Binary Acoustic Technology recommends using one, right on their Site (The MiniMIC page).  
When using a PC which is small & light enough: The MiniMIC is great for active recording, with it's live sonogram display. Sometimes, double-sided foam tape can be a good friend.
And, of course, it's excellent for unattended recording.

During the (Approx. 1 Month+) test period, with The BAT MiniMIC - It just so happened, that the laptop where my Kaleidoscope software resides, experienced a hard drive crash... So, I was (sort-of) "forced" to use more and more features of The SPECT'R III & SCAN'R software, from B.A.T.

In the following review, I refer to the pages/sections of the SPECT'R and SCAN'R User Manuals. The Reader should not take this as an indication that the User Manuals are complex! In fact, the very opposite is true: Both User Manuals are short, simple, and a pleasure to read. All necessary information is succinctly laid-out. The same is true of the Hardware Manuals - Well done, B.A.T.

---Thoughts regarding SPECT'R III ---

Many will be very pleased to learn that while using SPECT'R's Audio Monitoring: Listening through your PC's speakers (while either simply monitoring, or recording) - SPECT'R is functioning as a heterodyne detector (4.0.5 in Manual).
The audio output sounds great - Very strong, even on my little sub-notebook (mini-laptop) with it's tiny speakers.

I found the overall design and look of the software's main interface/dialog box simple and easy to use.

Of course, this application is excellent for acquiring the recordings from Binary Acoustic Technology's various microphones (hardware).
It's very simple to go from launching the application -to- recording bats.
I like the accuracy of the different features:  

• The Spectral Trace Window
• The moveable (Green) Tuning Indicator (P. 3.5 in User Manual)

I also like:

• Automatic Snapshot Mode (P. 3.6.1)
• Being able to select, between Natural -and- Digitally Compensated response.
• The ability to select frequency range (where Snapshots are triggered).
• The Pop Filter (reduces false triggers from a variety of unwanted sources).
• The ability to easily select UTC or Local time (for call logging)

SPECT'R III also generates a Log File, automatically. As many of you are aware, several bat recorders (from other manufacturers) do this In a similar fashion. And, I'll say it again: It reminds me of the Log File of a computer server (from my days as a Network Engineer).
Logging all the events which the system has experienced.

Pros- 

• It features an Operation Timer (P. 3.7.1) - Allowing recording to start & stop at times which you designate.

• Remote File Transfer - Allows you to set-up a remote collection (Web-enabled) PC, to receive Snapshot recordings from the main machine. (P. 3.8)
• May be used with (an optional) GPS unit (The Garmin GPS18x USB) P. 3.10

Cons -

•  Unable to be used as a stand alone recorder.

Some key sections of the SPECT'R III (Ver.3.3) User Manual:

3.4.1 Main Screen Control Section
3.4.2 SonoSCOPE Control Window
3.4.3 Spectral Trace Window
3.6    Recording
3.6.4 Snapshot specific controls
3.8    Remote File Transfer
4.0    Basic Operation 
4.0.7 Snapshot Recording
4.0.8 Running SonoSCOPE

SPECT'R III may be ordered Here.

--- Thoughts regarding SCAN'R ---

SCAN'R (Snapshot Characterization and Analysis) is the application developed by Binary Acoustic Technology, to allow one to analyze and process ultrasonic recordings.
The software itself, features a fairly simple design and easy to use interface.

This product is the ideal companion to the aforementioned SPECT'R software. 
SCAN'R basically allows you to determine which recordings contain bat calls, and which do not. Or, in some cases - Recordings which picked-up noise, etc.
It refers to bat calls and non-bat calls as "passed" or "failed", respectively. This makes it very easy for you to delete the "failed" recordings, which didn't record bat calls. I've found it to be very accurate in this capacity. 

As per Chapter 2, of The SCAN'R User Manual: "It supports two different base parameter sets...(conforming) to both Analook and SonoBat protocols"

Pros -

• Includes Signal Pressure Level (SPL) and curvature, a spectral shape measurement.
• Ability to process many files (recordings) at one time. 
• Settings are saved for the next session of use.

Cons - 

• Only has base parameter sets for Analook and SonoBat. 

Some key sections of the SCAN'R (Ver.1.7.3) User Manual:

3.4.2 Input File Selector
3.5    SCAN'R Menu Operation
3.6    SCAN'R Setup and Operation Windows
3.6.2 Scan Setup Window
3.7    Trace Window
3.8    SCAN'R Output File

SCAN'R software may be ordered Here. 

Happy bat detecting!

Review: The MiniMIC From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 2 Of 3

Review: The MiniMIC From Binary Acoustic Technology Part 2 Of 3

When I was a young Lad attending one of my first (private) schools, for those wanting to become Computer Technicians...
The very first thing they taught us was: "Hardware needs software...and software needs hardware." Meaning that each needs the other, in order to function. 
Something for the Novice to keep in mind; simple, but true.

In light of the small "herd" of computer-based bat recorders, which have started to find their way here (to me, for review) - Perhaps this saying bears repeating. At the very least, for the sake of any Beginners, who may be considering the purchase of such devices.
Because - These bat recorders are basically, hardware devices, which do require software.
In the case of these ultrasound recorders, the "software section" is being provided by your computer (in simplest terms).

Several of these types of bat recorders have already been reviewed here. Including, in fact, another great detector from Binary Acoustic Technology: The AR125 
You can see my Review of it here: Part 1, Part 2
 
I have also reviewed devices here from: Avisoft, Wildlife Acoustics, Dodotronic - Several more are currently in progress (This BAT MiniMIC, The M500) - And there are a couple more, still in development...

...Back to The MiniMIC USB Microphone, from Binary Acoustic Technology. And, the software which comes bundled with it - A full-licensed copy of SPECT'R III and a "limited" copy of SCAN'R; along with device drivers, etc. All located on the included CD ROM.

A screen-capture of SPECT'R, Window maximized while running

Note: When using SPECT'R, with it's default Contrast & Brightness settings: The (scrolling) live display (spectrogram) window always looks best when it isn't maximized. If you choose to use it maximized, then some minor adjustments to those two controls, will yield a better-looking display.
As you may have seen, in my First Impressions post, and Part 1 of this Review: The BAT MiniMIC kit has a very neat and simple appearance. Again, it is of a nice compact size and weight. Also, this MiniMIC is not a brand-new product. It has been available for over a year now.

After more than a month of testing, comparing, and (sometimes) simply using The MiniMIC: I've become very familiar with it's capabilities. Within this time, The MiniMIC microphone and SPECT'R III software has never let me down. The software never "froze" or crashed.
Something else to note, is that unlike several other (similar) microphone control applications: SPECT'R will allow you to launch it, without a device attached. It may seem minor to some, but I found this to be a plus.

SCAN'R - Automated Call Analysis Processor, is described very well by Binary Acoustic Technology, on their Website: 

"SCAN'R is a post collection processing tool.  It automatically scans files and file directories searching for recordings with bat calls.  It generates either SonoBat or Anabat compatible parameter sets.  It also runs on Windows XP/Vista/7/8. "

Now, I know of some Professionals, who shun computer-based recorders. Apparently, they have their reasons...None that I happen to agree with (for the most part).

The way I feel about this subject, can be summed-up as follows: "Injecting" the detected ultrasound directly into your computer, (creating a recording) removes an extra step: 
You don't need to remove, and (physically) transport an SD Memory card (from the recorder, to the computer). Then, copy the recordings (typically .wav files) over to the PC where you'll analyze them. Many of you are probably thinking "It's not that big a deal in the first place, really". And, I might have even agreed with you! But, I've grown rather accustomed to this arrangement lately...

Well, on the topic of computer-connected ultrasound recorders, a few have shared their dislikes with me.

I have read quite a few complaints in the past (again, mostly from Professionals). Among the ones that I do recall (at the moment) are:

• They would rather not be tethered to a laptop.
• They would rather have a device with batteries, replaceable in the field.
• They would rather not have a bright laptop screen to look at (ruining their dark-adapted eyesight)

And, some of us might agree with some (or all) of these Cons.

I enjoy doing passive recording, so I don't mind being connected to a computer.
Laptop batteries although expensive, are not un-obtainable. I will admit, that they'll add considerable weight and bulk, to your kit (bag).
I can certainly understand the concern over a laptop screen ruining one's night-adapted vision. It is a legitimate concern. The only thing I can add here, is that I almost always keep my LCD display(s) at their lowest/darkest setting. While in use, in the field, my thinking was: "I know it's recording, so there's no need to keep looking at it"
Again, I will point out the increasing popularity of Palmtop/Handtop computers (although I don't own one myself).

{For those who might be wondering: I use the term computer, because the term PC (Personal Computer) is generally used to represent Windows-based devices. And, The Echo Meter Touch only connects to iOS (Apple) devices}

What I'd simply like to establish here, is the general ability and performance of The BAT MiniMIC. 
I have performed comparisons and "Shoot-outs" against other bat recorders; practically to the point of exhaustion! I should remind the Reader, that I'm just a "one-man-show" here...
And, what I've found - Is that it's ability, is amazing!
Whenever I wanted to record every, single, last, bat in the area - The MiniMIC was the recorder to reach for. While it is turned on, bats will be hard pressed to "sneak through" your airspace undetected.

This brings us to the next point: What if you require (or simply prefer) to use a hand-held bat recording solution? Such as: An AnaBat SD2, an EM3, a Batlogger M, etc.
Well, then by all means, there is no reason why you should not equip yourself with one!
But, some bats will be missed. If you can accept that reality, then all is well.
I can accept it pretty easily, since I'm just a Hobbyist. Others may not... 

As I've mentioned in a related post: Whenever I test any bat-related product, which runs on a PC: I test it on several different laptops, to monitor it's behaviour, etc.
I noticed something, when putting SPECT'R III "through it's paces": It never had an issue, no matter how old or slow a laptop I ran it on. It always performed without problems.

The SPECT'R III application is used to control and operate the MiniMIC (or other BAT ultrasonic receivers) via a standard USB cable. It basically transforms your laptop/palmtop, into a hard disk drive-based ultrasound recorder. 
It runs smoothly, on Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7 and 8.

It is one of (the two) software applications which will be covered in further detail, in Part 3 of this review.

Until then,

Happy bat detecting!