Which of these two stethoscopes is best? (vote)

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Which of the following has the best sound quality and is easier to hear?

Which one is the best and why?

Thanks! :)

Littmann® Cardiology III or Littmann® Model 3200 Electronic Stethoscope

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I want to try out the 3200 scope but unfortunately I live in Toronto and don't the chance for a product trial if you live in the states.

I don't have the 3200 scope but I have researched a lot on this.

The 3200 is at least twice as expensive as the cardiology III, as cardiology III can go for around $150-200, while the 3200 goes for 375-500 (ebay).

upside: record sounds! 24x amplification! shows apical heart rate! wow!

downside: you can only record one sound with the 3200 per use, and must have a bluetooh capable computer nearby (installed) if you want to record the sounds.

Furthermore, the Bluetooth functions are currently limited and only works on windows desktop (can't connect to bluetooth earbuds, not very tablet/apple[iphone,ipad] friendly)

Seems they are developing more software for the 3200.

http://www.mail-archive.com/[email protected]/msg341164.html

I hope they further develop the product to be able to record more than one sound at a time, and also compatible with android, ipad/iphone, or mobile devices as you call it :D.

TL;DR: If I have ~$400 to spend for a scope, I would go for it. otherwise, you can pretty much hear everything with the cardiology III scope so there is no need for 3200 as nurses in my opinion :D.

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Specializes in ED.

I have the card III and my mother in law has the 3200. If you have the money, the 3200 rocks. The downsides: people stealing it, other nurses looking down on you and making sure you have extra batteries in your pocket. I want one and looking for an excuse to buy one. why, I'm old and my hearing isn't what it used to be, can you say volume control. Also it has a pulse counter, no more leading over your patient (who is coughing on you or for you women trying to look down your top) for a minute while looking at your watch.

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I have the cardiology III and love it. Be careful about nice stethoscopes though, they unfortunately do get stolen.

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Thank you, all, for answering. It's a lot of money, but I will hopefully go for the 3100 or the 3200.

I want to buy what will be the best for my patients. The more I hear, the better.

Thanks again!!

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Specializes in ICU, Telemetry, Neuro, Ortho, Med/Surg.

Started with Cardio III, and now finally got the 3100. Love both, but really, really love my 3100. I can hear everything! Keep around neck at ALL times. And, let no one borrow it...it will walk off.

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Specializes in ER, progressive care.

Never tried the 3200 although it looks nice! I have the Cardio III and I absolutely love it :)

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