Portable recorder for field recording/sampling

Hi,

I'm after a handheld recorder with decent built-in mics. I don't need mic inputs or many fancy recording options, just something I can put in a bag or pocket that will make good recordings on the fly. Also I'd rather it was under £100. Used is definitely an option.

So far I've seen the zoom h-1 and h-2 (which I'm currently leaning towards) and the tascam dr range, especially the older model dr-07 which seems to be well regarded.

Does anyone have experience with any or a few of these? Any other suggestions?

Thanks.

Later Sony HD MiniDisc recorders are pretty good if you're on a tight budget.

If you've got an iPhone 4 (or iPod Touch) take a look at the Tascam iM2 stereo condenser mics. It turns you iDevice into a Tascam DR-type recorder (I believe the mics are the same in both).

The Zoom H-1 makes fantastic recordings. I've found that when used outside the faintest of breezes will cause popping, making the use of a wind shield necessary (I got one from Redhead windscreens). Mine also uses batteries up even when it is turned off (I think this is a common problem). Apart from that, I'm pleased with it.

Olympus LS10. Superseded by the 11 so you might pick one up cheap-ish.

Minidisc uses ATRACS data compression (it's pretty good) but I would avoid it these days personally. The Zooms are a tad noisy in my experience £100.00 will have a few compromises to bear I suspect.

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