Field Digital recorder advice

[RoyaleT]

Anyone have a lead on a good digital recorder similar to the Zoom H2? I have that unit, it records very well but the setup is awkward to say the least and the screen is a bit small for these old eyes. Under $400 US would be great, and ease of use is paramount. The Sony PCM-M10 looks like it might fit the bill. Thanks

[joey45]

Ok--I agree the setup is challenging, but do you have it already setup? It really is a good unit. All in all, the very best advice I can give you is to do a bit of research in your local area. What is user-friendly, and what is not, is very much on a person by person basis. Go to a local store, I don't know, maybe Best Buy or that sort of a retailer. But if happen to be fortunate enough, you may have a full-line music store in the area. They might be more apt to carry things like portable digital recorders than any one else. And sometimes, they have bulletin boards on which you might post a notice asking for advice, and perhaps a demo of their favorite.

Any other way of shopping for something for something that doesn't allow you to "try before buy," may result in an expensive dissappointment for you.
Ciao,
Joey45

[GodinFan]

The Zoom H4N is much more verstaile, IMO, has larger controls than the H4, and a bigger display.

[BMaag]

I use the Tascam DR-1. The recording process works like this: Turn it on. Press record to arm it and set the peak levels. Press record again and you're recording. Hit it again to stop. It's a big button. It doesn't get much easier than that, IMO. Also the screen is very easy to read. You can find one new for $200 - $250.

[RoyaleT]

Thanks for the information. I will try to get out to The Philly area and check the H4N and the Tascam units mentioned, sound like just the ticket.