If an investigator plans to capture electronic voice phenomenon samples (EVPs), they will definitely require a tape recorder. Some investigators use digital recorders because of their simplicity; they do not require tapes and they are reusable. Conversely, some investigators elect to use standard tape recorders because they are a less expensive way to record and it provides them with the ability to review the tapes later.
Digital recorders eventually fill up with information and the only way to remove the information is to download it to a computer or to delete it. Thus, when using a digital recorder it may become necessary to bring a laptop on an investigation, whereas with standard tape recorders, it only requires the investigator to bring additional tapes. Digital recorders tend to be a bit more costly than standard recorders, so if an investigator is working with a tight budget, they may want to begin working with a standard recorder and later opt to purchase a digital recorder.
External Microphone
When taping EVPs, most investigators use external microphones. Instead of using the internal microphone that is built in to many recorders, investigators often prefer the use of an external microphone because internal microphones tape the internal mechanisms of the machine. Further, such internal sounds can be mistaken for actual EVPs. External microphones are fairly inexpensive and usually run in the price range of 5 to 10 dollars.
Electromagnetic Field Detector
Investigators often use Electromagnetic Field Detectors (EMF Detectors) to determine whether or not there are any electromagnetic disturbances in the area being investigated. It is believed that EMF detectors pick up on spirit activity. When spirits manifest they use and create energy. The only pitfall of an EMF detector is that it also picks up on the electromagnetic fields created by natural sources. Thus, an investigator is required to do an initial walk through of any location that they investigate and also must make note of any naturally caused electromagnetic field sources. Finally, electromagnetic field detectors can be purchased for as little as $20.00, however, the quality of such equipment is directly parallel to its price. For just a few more dollars, an investigator can pick up a higher quality EMF detector for about $40.00.
