What Is the Recorder and How Does It Work?
The Recorder is a small, quick-use gadget that plays a repeating melody when activated. Its main purpose is to attract ARC’s attention or, in more casual play, to show off in front of other players. When you hold down the fire button, the Recorder begins playing one of two looping tunes.
However, there are some trade-offs you need to be aware of:
While playing the Recorder, you cannot use other weapons, gadgets, breach points, or open containers. Essentially, it occupies both hands, similar to carrying a Field Crate.
You can stop playing it at any time by unequipping the item, which is important in combat situations because the Recorder does not provide any defensive capabilities.
In practice, this means the Recorder is best used situationally, such as in quiet areas where you’re not under threat or when you want to draw enemies to a specific spot for strategic purposes. Many experienced players keep it in their inventory but rarely use it in direct combat because the opportunity cost—being unable to shoot or breach—is high.
Where Can You Get the Recorder?
The Recorder can be obtained in a few different ways, primarily through scavenging or purchasing from in-game vendors:
Scavenging: Residential areas are the main spawn points. Players often check these locations early in the match if they want the Recorder without spending credits.
Vendors:
Apollo sells the Recorder for 3,000 Coins, with a limit of six per day.
Shani sells it for 50 Cred, with a limit of three per day.
For players who want to save time or ensure they have multiple Recorders ready, there are online options. The best website to buy Arc Raiders items and blueprints can be used for reliable purchases, though it’s worth checking that the source is legitimate and safe. Many players use this approach to stock up on uncommon items without relying entirely on random scavenging or limited daily vendor stocks.
How Do You Repair the Recorder?
Like most gadgets, the Recorder can degrade and will need repairs over time. Here’s what you need in practice:
Repair Cost: 1x Recorder + 4x Plastic Parts.
Plastic Parts are a common crafting material, so keeping a small stock is recommended if you intend to use the Recorder regularly. Many players recycle old Recorders or other gadgets to maintain their stock of Plastic Parts.
What Happens When You Recycle or Salvage It?
Understanding the difference between recycling and salvaging is helpful for inventory management:
Recycling a Recorder gives you 10 Plastic Parts.
Salvaging a Recorder gives you 4 Plastic Parts.
In practice, recycling is more efficient if you don’t need the item anymore and want to reclaim maximum resources. Salvaging is typically done when you only need a partial return or when the item is partially damaged. Experienced players often stockpile Recorders to recycle when they’re done with a match, which can save resources in the long run.
Should You Carry the Recorder?
The Recorder isn’t essential for most combat-focused runs, but it has niche uses:
Distraction and Crowd Control: In certain scenarios, the Recorder can be used to lure ARC bots away from a high-value target or trap.
Roleplay and Social Interaction: Some players enjoy using it to signal their presence or just for fun during downtime.
Resource Management: Since it’s quick-use and doesn’t consume heavy materials, it can be a “safe” gadget to carry if you want variety in your loadout.
In general, it’s a gadget that adds flexibility but at a cost. Always evaluate whether you want to risk being unarmed while using it.
Practical Tips from Experienced Players
Keep it unequipped unless needed: Because it prevents the use of other tools or weapons, don’t have it in your active slot unless you’re ready to use it.
Combine with teammates: One player can use the Recorder to draw enemies while others prepare a breach or attack. Timing is critical.
Stockpile repair materials: Having Plastic Parts handy means you can keep using Recorders without interruptions.
Recycle wisely: If you find multiple Recorders, recycling is generally better than salvaging unless you specifically need a small number of parts.
The Recorder is a small but versatile gadget in Arc Raiders. Its value isn’t in direct combat but in utility, distraction, and social play. Knowing when and how to use it can give you subtle advantages, especially in coordinated team play. By scavenging, purchasing from vendors, or using trusted websites to acquire items and blueprints, you can ensure a steady supply. With proper repair and recycling habits, the Recorder can remain a useful, low-cost gadget throughout your runs.
