You hang up after a long call with a client and realize you can't remember exactly what was agreed. Call Corder 4 is built for that moment. It records phone conversations to your PC's hard disk through a voice modem, so you can replay the call instead of relying on scribbled notes.
Quick facts
- Version: 4.0
- Developer: Oleg Afonin (Voice Call Central)
- Platforms: Windows 2000, XP, Vista, Server 2003 and Server 2008
- Price: $49.95
- Trial: a fully functional evaluation copy for 30 days
- Hardware: a Caller ID capable voice modem or telephony device
Key features
Record a call with a single push of a button
Call Corder saves telephone calls and conversations straight to your hard disk. It runs in the system tray, so you can start or stop recording at any time. You can also set it to record incoming calls automatically. On certain types of modems it can start recording when the receiver is picked up.
Play a legal disclaimer before recording starts
The program can play a legal disclaimer automatically before every recorded call, which helps when you record in a business setting. The documentation includes a practical guide to the legal side of recording phone conversations. It covers Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and a state-by-state guide for the US.
Find old calls quickly with memos and Caller ID labels
Every call is annotated with a memo, so you can navigate your recordings easily. With Caller ID, incoming calls are labeled with the caller's number and name automatically. You need Caller ID service from your phone company for this.
Store hundreds of hours in standard WAV files
Calls are saved as standard Windows sound files, so any player or sound editor can open them. Messages can be compressed in real time, which cuts the storage needed by 11 times compared with uncompressed audio. An optional automatic gain control adjusts the volume to improve sound quality on different telephone setups.
Work alongside your answering machine and share recordings by e-mail
Call Corder can work with your regular answering machine. It starts recording the message right after the machine finishes playing its greeting. Any recorded conversation, including your own comments, can be forwarded by e-mail.
Who it's for
It suits you if you take client, order or support calls on a landline and want a searchable record of them. You will need a compatible voice modem or telephony device, and you should be comfortable with some modem setup.
Pros and cons
Pros
- One-button or fully automatic recording
- Optional legal disclaimer before each call
- Caller ID labeling and call memos
- Standard WAV output with strong compression options
- Free 30-day trial of the full program
- Minor updates are free
Cons
- Depends on a voice modem or telephony device, and voice modems vary a lot in quality
- Audio quality can range from poor to acceptable depending on the modem
- Caller ID needs a service from your phone company
- Not designed for mobile or internet calls
FAQs
Do I need special hardware?
Yes. You need a Caller ID capable voice modem or a telephony device connected to your telephone line. A sound card and speakers are recommended.
Can I try it first?
Yes. The software is offered on a try-before-you-buy basis. You can use a fully functional evaluation version for 30 days before buying.
Is recording calls legal?
That depends on where you are. The built-in disclaimer playback helps, and the included legal guide covers Australia, Canada, the UK and US states.
What happens when a new version comes out?
Minor updates, such as 4.0 to 4.1, are free. Users of previous versions get a discounted upgrade. If you bought within 30 days before a new version was released, you get a free upgrade.
Does it need product activation?
No. Version 4.0 no longer uses product activation, and it works with Windows Vista.
System requirements
- Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 2003 Server or 2008 Server
- Caller ID capable voice modem or telephony device connected to your telephone line
- Call Display service from your telephone company recommended
- Sound card and connected speakers recommended