Steve,
With your criteria:
XLR inputs
Limiter
Record 44.1 WAV format
Uses SD, SDHC cards
Record in true mono (one channel)
built-in mics not important
You should consider the new Marantz PMD661 ($600). It's a new model,
available in January. It meets your needs in all ways except the
limiter. Instead, Marantz offers monaural recording, with one
channel at the level you set with the gain control, and one channel 20
dB down.
Other small recorders, including the Olympus LS-10, Edirol R-09HR,
Zoom H2, Tascam DR-1, M-Audio Microtrack II, and Sony PCM-D50, all
include the limiter function, but miss your criteria in two or more
categories. The Sony PCM-D50 has the best limiter of the bunch by a
wide margin.
The PMD661 provides phantom power. All the other recorders listed do
not. For mics that need 48V phantom power, you will need to purchase a
battery box like the Rolls PB224 ($80) or the ART Phantom II ($65). I
use the ART with the Rode NT-1A mics, with good results. You will need
a cable that has two female XLR on one end, and a right angle 1/8"
miniplug on the other. One such cable is the Hosa XYF 247, which is
available in several lengths.
Good luck with your purchase. Let us know what you decide to buy.
--oryoki
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