Olympus Archives - The Maynards Group

Introducing the NEW DS-9000

by Wayne Melleon 15 January 2019in Digital Voice Recorders, Olympus No comment

The DS-9000 – the final “cog” in the new Olympus PRO lineup is now available in South Africa.

The DS-9000 replaces the extremely popular DS-7000, which has established a reputation for being a highly reliable top end recorder over the past 5 or so years that it has been in operation. The DS-9000 builds on this reputation by offering even more features and that legendary Olympus reliability – all for the same price as the old DS-7000.

DS-9000 We launched the new “top end” Olympus Recorder in April last year – the DS-9500. The new DS-9000 is built on the exact same platform as the popular DS-9500, the only difference being the DS-9000 does not have any WiFi functionality. For detailed specs on the DS-9000 please click on the link: DS-9000 Specs

So with the launch of the DS-9000, the Olympus Professional range of recorders has now been fully overhauled. The DS-9500 being the “top of the line” offering, followed by the new DS-9000 and the extremely impressive “entry level” offering in the form of the DS-2600.

For any busy professionals – in any industry, 2019 is the right time to upgrade to a new Digital Voice Recorder. Contact one of our branches today to arrange a obligation free demo on the fantastic new Olympus range of recorders.

DS-2600 – Pro Dictation made simple

by Wayne Melleon 7 November 2018in Digital Voice Recorders, Olympus No comment

OLYMPUS DS-2600 – Professional Dictation made simple and stress free

New to Digital Dictation or looking for an affordable entry into the professional digital market? The Olympus DS-2600 is the perfect tool for you.

For the first time in the digital dictation marketplace – an entry level PRO device features a 4-position slide switch, full color screen and stereo recording capabilities. The DS-2600 has moved the bar in terms of what is considered an entry level PRO recorder.

The new DS-2600 replaces the extremely popular DS-2500 – which has built a reputation over the years as a reliable and efficient entry level offering into the Olympus Pro range of devices. The DS-2600 builds on this reputation by offering a brand-new design, slide switch operation (for the very first time in an entry level device), full stereo recording capabilities (in PCM), color screen and lithium iron rechargeable battery pack. In addition to that, the DS-2600 comes supplied with the DSS Player Standard dictation management software – compatible with Windows and MAC. This user-friendly software gives a complete overview of all your dictations to get your dictations managed easily. It also automatically imports your dictations from the voice recorder to your computer.

Key Features:

4-Position Slide Switch – enables easy and intuitive operation
High Quality Low-Noise Microphone – The new DS series incorporates low noise omni-directional microphones and a shock absorber covers the microphone unit to minimize touch noises from your hand
Directional STEREO Recording – You can record your meetings with ease, but still in outstanding quality.

Comfortable Transcription

If you would like to transcribe your dictations, then the AS-2400 transcription Kit should be your choice. Included are comfortable stereo headphones and a foot pedal to operate the software, leaving your hands free for fast typewriting. The DS-2600 is also fully compatible with the NEW AS-9000 transcription kit.

For more detailed info on this device please follow this link: Info

Olympus WEB SCP – Total System Control

by Wayne Melleon 30 May 2018in Olympus No comment

The recently released Olympus Web System Configuration Program V.7 (Web SCP) is designed for medium & large organizations and contains all the tools required to install, customize, and manage an ODMS environment in Workgroup mode without any hidden ongoing costs.

Olympus Web SCP offers a vast array of features and allows administrators to centrally manage and configure their ODMS environment via web browser. It streamlines cumbersome user management processes and makes it easy to manage user and group profiles in large numbers, allowing for faster and easier configuration. ODMS workflow and device settings can be locked so that organizations can implement a standard workflow for their dictation environment, ensuring total consistency and accuracy. Updating firmware and software can easily be controlled by the administrators.

Olympus Web SCP tracks the use of the Dictation and Transcription Module across the workgroup system. It also allows the IT Administrator to update the license simply by entering a new key, making it quick and easy to add more users to an ODMS environment without affecting the entire system.

The best part of this system is that its purchased as a single once off fee – NO ongoing monthly or annual costs. This means implementing an Enterprise-Class Workflow Solution in any organization is very straight forward and cost effective. It is recommended that any organization with at least 10 ODMS installations (combined Dictation and Transcription) should seriously consider this fantastic management software to help ease the burden of managing their current Olympus system. Web SCP V.7 is compatible with ODMS V.6 and V.7 and can manage the current range of Olympus devices (DS-9500, soon to be released DS-9000 and DS-2600) as well as the previous range DS-7000, DS-5500 and DS-3500.

Contact one of our branches today to find out more about this fantastic software and how it can benefit your organization.

The NEW DS-9500 has arrived!!

by Wayne Melleon 3 May 2018in Digital Voice Recorders, Olympus No comment

New Olympus DS-9500 features intelligent 2 Microphone system, dictation transfer via Wi-Fi, 4 position switch, colour screen with rechargeable battery.

The new Olympus DS-9500 Professional dictation machine offers mobile dictation anytime anywhere with WiFi. Two microphones ensure flawless speech quality in every situation. Use the integrated WiFi to share your dictation instantly with your secretary or speech recognition software. Just connect your DS 9500 to your smartphones’ hotspot or wireless router in your office and send your dictation right after you have finished it. The integrated microphones allow you to record in high quality stereo to record conference or interviews. Besides, the second microphone can be used to suppress background noises so that the main microphone can focus with a high directionality to the speaker’s voice. By this means you are enabled to create dictations as well for speech recognition anytime anywhere both in quiet and noisy environments.

Mobile dictation, secure file management, fast sharing. Your professional mobile dictation solution

You decide when, where and how you dictate. Two microphones ensure flawless speech quality in every situation. Use WiFi to share your files from the DS-9500

Enjoy greater efficiency and more time for the things that are important to you.

Flexible dictation in any environment

In noisy conditions the main microphone is recording in a high directionality mode together with noise cancellation in order to focus on the voice. The noise from the surrounding will be suppressed to a minimum. In quiet situations, no matter from which angle you speak into the device, the omni-directional microphones pick up your voice accurately. In this mode, you can hold the device in your hand any way you like. Conference mode with intelligent auto records in high quality stereo. Recording levels are automatically adjusted to the loudness of different speakers’ voices.

WiFi data transfer to enhance your workflow

Simply dictate and download directly to your transcriptionist via Wi-Fi.

No cables required.

Easy and secure management with ODMS software

The ODMS R7 software allows you to easily share your files with recipients. Prioritise highly important files. Check out how ODMS R7 enhances your wireless dictation workflow.

Your files at a glance

With the workgroup installation of ODMS R7 and Olympus SCP, you can see the status of your dictations in the list view on your DS-9500. The WLAN icons inform you about the transcription progress and let you know when it is finished.

Intuitive operation for full concentration during dictation

The slide switch ensures intuitive operation. The high-quality materials make the dictation machine’s slide switch even more robust and durable.

Efficient working with the Docking station.

The DS-9500 Docking Station provides the seamless connection to your PC. When connected to an Olympus AC Adapter, it charges the DS-9500 in under 2 hours. Optionally, you can connect it with a footswitch and control the device remotely, allowing for hands-free dictation.

Where WiFi transfer isn’t possible, the Docking Station´s LAN connector provides an alternative to transfer files to the network without direct access to a PC.

Secure your dictation device with a PIN

A security PIN protects your data from unauthorised access.

Encryption at a high security level

AES 256-bit encryption provides high-standard data security

For more detailed info on the new DS-9500 recorder please follow this link: https://www.olympus-europa.com/site/en/a/audio_systems/professional_dictation/mobile_dictation/ds_9500/index.html

Initial stocks have just arrived in S.A at fantastic prices – to secure your new device please get hold of your nearest branch ASAP.

Introducing the NEW Olympus LS-P4

by Wayne Melleon 9 February 2018in Digital Voice Recorders, Olympus No comment

LS-P4: PROFESSIONAL audio quality, compact size and metal body – ensures a versatile range of use cases

Hi-Res sound recording and playback in such a small size: The new Olympus LS-P4 Linear PCM Recorder lets professional filmmakers, YouTube enthusiasts, musicians and other users enjoy the sound quality and versatility that the Olympus LS Series is renowned for – in a compact and robust design making it the ideal companion for on the go.

Achieve nearly perfect 96kHz/24-bit recordings that are better than CD quality – but with file sizes which are up to 30% smaller compared to the PCM WAV format.

Out of many use cases, a particular up and coming one is of course filmmaking: in combination with the latest Olympus camera models such as the 4K-video-boasting OM-D E-M1 Mark II and OM-D E-M10 Mark III or the all-new Olympus PEN E-PL9, the LS-P4 is the perfect device to produce professional travel, documentary, event, wedding or music videos with Hi-Res sound or to create excellent audio for YouTube videos.

Sound is 50% of the experience but it sometimes only gets 1% of the budget. Giles Packham, Composer

LS-P4 model packs the advanced technology of the flagship LS series into a portable size. The LS-P series makes high-resolution audio recording possible that goes beyond the quality of music CDs, and the LS-P4 is the first linear PCM recorder compatible with the FLAC format recording which reduces file size without any drop in quality. Not only can you record musical performances both instrumental and choral, but its compact size benefits you when recording outdoors. You can also witlessly play back recorded audio with Bluetooth capable speakers or headphones.

Main Features

FLAC Recording and Playback & Hi-Res Audio
TRESMIC – Three microphone system
7 recording scenes – allows higher customization
A range of on-board editing functions (overdub; fade in / out)
Trimming and Partial erase functions
Voice Balancer (makes smaller voices louder and ensures that louder voices stay below a given level)
Noise cancellation – clear playback quality
Bluetooth compatibility
USB lever – easy to connect without cable
12 European languages (ZOOM has only EN, no localization)
Easier and convenient post-production with Steinberg WaveLab License (included as a box content)

# Available in South Africa within the next couple of months. Contact us for further details.

Olympus Dictation App – A crucial part of the Dictation Puzzle

by Wayne Melleon 7 June 2017in Digital Voice Recorders, Olympus No comment

Olympus launched the Dictation App / ODDS system in late 2013 to much fanfare – initial write up – NEW Olympus Smartphone App. The response however to the new product wasn’t overwhelming – which was understandable in a traditionally conservative professional market place. Over the past 2 years the solution has really started to gain traction with many clients testing and implementing the system within their businesses.

Robbie Dent of Hopelands Clinic in Durban (our single biggest user of the APP) had the following to say about the offering:

“We have been using the Olympus Dictaphone APP now for a few months. As a busy medical practice of 12 consulting oncologists we cover a large area and do many away clinics. Having the APP on our phones has been a huge time saver for us as we are able to dictate letters/notes immediately without having to carry a Dictaphone with us and then wait for the letters to go through to the typist when we dock the Dictaphone. This means that urgent letters are sent to the typist immediately and this cuts down on the lead time for letters getting out.

We would very highly recommend the Olympus Dictaphone APP.”

As was the case for Hopelands Clinic – one of the biggest benefits of the Dictation App in conjunction with ODDS (Olympus Dictation Delivery Service) is the massive amount of time certain professionals can save in having urgent dictations transcribed. It’s the perfect companion for your tried and tested Olympus Digital Voice Recorder and the integration between the two is seamless.

It’s important to bear in mind that this APP is NOT designed to replace your current handheld Voice Recorder; instead it’s designed to compliment it. This will allow a busy professional who has the need to work out of the office to complete urgent dictations and send them off for transcribing straight away – regardless of where they are.

IF this is something you feel could revolutionize your business please contact us to set up a FREE trial on the system – you wont regret it.

Olympus Dictation for the NHLS

by Wayne Melleon 18 May 2017in Digital Voice Recorders, Olympus, Transcription Kits No comment

Building on the huge success the Olympus brand and in particular the Olympus DS-7000 Digital Voice Recorder has enjoyed in the SA medical market over the years the NHLS (National Health Laboratory Service) have recently started rolling out this solution to all Pathology Labs in Gauteng through Olympus’s accredited fulfillment partner OTB (Office Technology Brokers).

Olympus Audio SA has a long history of dealing with pathology labs in Southern Africa, both government and private. A couple years ago the WC Forensic Pathology Services upgraded to the then brand new DS-7000 Digital Recorders and AS-7000 Transcription Kits (Cutting Edge Olympus Tech for Forensic Path Services). Pathcare, the biggest private pathology practices in SA have long trusted Olympus with all their dictation requirements (Pathcare entrusts Olympus with all their dictation requirements).

“The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) is the largest diagnostic pathology service in South Africa with the responsibility of supporting the national and provincial health departments in the delivery of healthcare.

The NHLS provides laboratory and related public health services to over 80% of the population through a national network of laboratories. “

With this kind of workload and responsibility the equipment being used in the labs is essential to providing quick and accurate reports for South Africa’s citizens. The NHLS ultimately decided on the tried and tested Olympus DS-7000 Digital Voice Recorder for the pathologists and the AS-7000 Transcription Kit for the typists. In total close to 80 DS-7000’s and 30 AS-7000’s have been installed in the last 6 months across Gauteng – joining the established Olympus systems in the NHLS labs in the Western Cape and KZN. The current intake of devices has upgraded a combination of old analogue (tape) systems as well as older digital systems.

Both the DS-7000 and AS-7000’s are supplied with the award winning ODMS (Olympus Dictation Management System) software, which allows for an infinite amount of configuration setups. With the future vision to connect all NHLS labs around the country to one singular system we used the network configuration (single file sharing server which all PC’s point towards). For now each lab is running their own SME file server, this is due to limited bandwidth across the overall NHLS network at this point in time. Once this has been resolved the infrastructure is in place to connect the labs together and share the workload across different locations – which is the ultimate goal.

The DS-7000 / AS-7000 system also allows for work to be created outside of the main workflow and sent in, as if it was created right there in the office– something that is invaluable for users that work from home or out of the office. The Dictation App paired with the FlashAir card makes this all possible.

Olympus Audio S.A are proud to join the “rest” of the Olympus family (microscopes and camera’s) within the NHLS – helping the countries biggest laboratory to continue to provide the critical reports they do on a daily basis.

Olympus Medical Equipment

NEW Olympus Foot Pedal’s – can now be used with 3rd party software programs

by Wayne Melleon 17 May 2017in Digital Voice Recorders, Olympus, Transcription Kits One comment

Want to use an Olympus USB transcription foot pedal with Express Scribe, Windows Media Player or any other audio or video playback software? Now you can with the free Olympus Foot Switch Configuration Tool for both Windows and Mac.

Olympus are well known for their innovation and equipment in the digital voice recording, dictation and transcription world and when it comes to transcription their ODMS (Olympus Dictation Management System) transcription module software for Windows and DSS Player Plus for Mac is the go to for many legal, medical and outsourced transcription providers. Marry the software with the Olympus RS-28H (three pedal) and Olympus RS-31H (four pedal) USB transcription foot controls, both built like a tank, to take a pounding from constant foot stomping you can see why their pedals are often craved by most typists.

Now using the free Olympus Foot Switch Configuration Tool from Olympus these two pedals can be set to either work with your Olympus software OR work with any other audio or video playback software. How? The tool allows you to map hotkeys used by the software to a foot pedal on the RS-28H or RS-31H.

Here is an example, Windows Media Player, the hot key or keyboard short cut to play at normal speed is Ctrl + Shift N : the keyboard shortcut can be applied to any pedal on the RS-28H or RS-31H, letting you now use a footpedal for playback.

The Olympus Foot Switch Configuration Tool is available as a free download for both Windows and Mac from the Olympus website. Download link below:

Foot Switch Configuration Tool

Note: CREDIT for this blog post goes to Dave from Dictate Australia!!

Olympus DS-5500 Giveaway

by Wayne Melleon 10 November 2016in Digital Voice Recorders, Olympus, Uncategorized No comment

The Olympus DS-5500 Giveaway is rapidly approaching its completion. We are into our third month of the giveaway now having already given away 2 Olympus DS-5500 Digital Voice Recorders to 2 lucky winners over the past two months.

Our first winner of the fantastic Olympus DS-5500 Digital Voice Recorder was Margaret Bigby from Durban. Margaret received her new Olympus Recorder from our Durban based sales consultant Sabeena Singh. Reports out of our Durban office are that Margaret is enjoying the use of her new Olympus Recorder and is looking to expand on her range of Olympus devices in the coming months which is fantastic news.

Our second lucky winner was Advocate Tertius Steyn from JHB. Our JHB Sales consultants Shaun Naude and Thandi Mncube handed Tertius’s new Olympus DS-5500 over to him. Tertius was extremely happy to win the Olympus Recorder as he had used one at his previous firm and had always loved the Olympus brand and the functionality of the device. Being a previous user of the brand Tertius didnt need any introduction to his new Olympus Recorder and was able to start using it the same day. We would like to wish both our lucky winners many years of high quality recording from their respective Olympus Recorders.

SO – one month to go means one more Olympus DS-5500 Digital Voice Recorder to giveaway. For those of you that haven’t already entered please visit the entry page and complete the entry form – DS-5500 Competition

We expect to draw the last winner in this fantastic Olympus competition a little later on this month! Some pictures of the 2 winners:

Margaret Bigby recieving her Olympus DS-5500

Adv. Tertius Steyn receiving his Olympus DS-5500

Olympus Audio Conference 2016

by Wayne Melleon 9 September 2016in Digital Voice Recorders, General, Olympus, Uncategorized No comment

A couple of months ago the Olympus Audio team got together for our annual conference. Traditionally this has been held in Cape Town with our direct sales teams from across the country attending. This year we felt we needed to do something a little different – so we held a client appreciation conference over 3 days in JHB. The first day was an internal conference with our JHB team – a massive thanks to both Ian and Lee from Olympus UK who begrudgingly came out to sunny South Africa to share their valuable insights on the brand and products with us. 🙂

The second day we hosted a dealer appreciation event. The idea was to say thank you to our valued dealer partners for their continued support of the brand. The brief for the day – FUN – so we decided an afternoon of Go-Karting was the way to go!!

Compu-Kart in Edenvale was the host of our afternoon event – what a great venue with very knowledgeable and friendly staff, definitely a venue we would highly recommend and frequent again in the future. We had the use of the full facility for 3 hours and with the rather small amount of people that ended up attending that meant ALOT of “cart” time for each person. As one can imagine, there was plenty banter and lots of fun had by those that attended. For those valued partners that unfortunately couldn’t make it – you certainly missed out 🙂 🙂 BUT we hope to see you all at one of our events in the future. 🙂

A couple pictures to bring back some memories:

Our 3 day event closed off with an end user gathering in our JHB office – users + prospective users of the Olympus brand were invited in to discuss the products, their features and how best they could be used in different industries. This proved to be a fruitful process for both the Olympus staff and our clients and its definitely something we will look at doing a little more of in the future.

A big thanks to everyone that was involved as well as those valuable partners and clients for attending – we look forward to hosting you again in the near future. 🙂

Category : Olympus