What is the Recorder and How Does It Work?
The Recorder is a quick-use gadget classified as uncommon, designed to attract ARC attention. When you hold the Fire button, it plays one of two repeating melodies. While playing, you cannot use any other weapons, gadgets, breach doors, or search containers. Essentially, it locks you into using the Recorder until you put it away, similar to carrying a Field Crate.
From a gameplay perspective, this means you need to plan when to use it. Most players tend to deploy it either:
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To draw ARC units away from teammates – the sound attracts enemies, allowing others to flank or complete objectives without direct confrontation.
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To impress or interact with other Raiders – while not combat-essential, players sometimes use it socially in safe zones or residential areas.
In practice, don’t expect the Recorder to turn the tide of a fight. Its main utility is distraction and situational support rather than direct damage.
Where Can You Find the Recorder?
Players often ask if the Recorder is rare or difficult to acquire. Here’s the breakdown:
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Scavenging: It can appear during scavenging missions, usually in Residential areas.
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Vendors: Two NPCs sell it daily, with different currencies:
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Apollo: Sells 6 per day for 3,000 Coins each.
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Shani: Sells 3 per day for 50 Cred each.
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If you’re actively farming arc raiders items for upgrades, make sure to check both vendors daily. Buying from Shani is often cheaper if you have spare Cred, while Apollo’s stock is more generous in quantity.
How to Repair the Recorder
Like other gadgets, the Recorder can wear down and needs occasional repair. The materials required are simple:
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1x Recorder
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4x Plastic Parts
Repairing is straightforward and can often be done on the fly, but it’s worth noting that carrying extra Plastic Parts in your inventory helps you avoid downtime in the middle of a mission. Most players keep a stack of these in case multiple gadgets need attention.
Recycling and Salvaging the Recorder
If you don’t need the Recorder, it’s still useful as a source of materials. Here’s what you get:
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Recycling: Yields 10x Plastic Parts
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Salvaging: Yields 4x Plastic Parts
Experienced Raiders often recycle instead of salvaging if they have multiple Recorders. Recycling is more material-efficient and helps maintain a steady stock of Plastic Parts, which are used across many arc raiders items. Salvaging is more conservative and preferred if you only have a single Recorder and want to retain some functionality.
Tips for Using the Recorder in Gameplay
Based on common player behavior, here’s what tends to work best:
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Use strategically: Don’t deploy it in the middle of a firefight unless your goal is to redirect ARC units.
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Coordinate with teammates: Effective use usually requires communication. One player plays the Recorder while others handle objectives or enemies.
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Keep an eye on inventory: The Recorder takes up a slot and prevents other actions, so balance its use with your weapon loadout.
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Farm regularly: Check vendors daily to maintain a ready supply, especially if you plan on using it frequently.
Remember, the Recorder is more of a tactical tool than a combat weapon. Many new players underestimate its value in crowd control and distraction.
Common Questions from Players
Q: Can I switch to weapons while the Recorder is active? A: No. You must unequip it before using anything else. Plan your timing carefully.
Q: Is it better to buy from Apollo or Shani? A: It depends on your resources. Shani is cheaper in Cred but limited to 3 per day. Apollo is more expensive but allows up to 6 per day. Many players check both to maximize stock.
Q: Should I salvage or recycle? A: If you have extra Recorders, recycling gives more Plastic Parts. If you only have one and want to keep it, salvaging is safer.
Q: Can the Recorder distract multiple ARC units at once? A: Yes, the melody will attract any ARC unit in range. Use it to funnel enemies or create space for objectives.
The Recorder is a niche but useful gadget in Arc Raiders. Its main purpose is distraction and support rather than damage. Understanding when and how to use it, along with knowing where to find and repair it, can give you an edge in coordinated raids. Pay attention to inventory management, plan your usage, and take advantage of its recycling potential for materials.
If you integrate it thoughtfully, the Recorder becomes more than a novelty—it’s a reliable tool in the hands of experienced Raiders, complementing your collection of arc raiders items and enhancing your overall strategy.