"If you are looking for a recorder that is a step up from the
Olympus LS-11, Sony PCM-M10, then take a look at the Marantz PMB661"
Marantz calls it the PMD661. It's a fine machine, with features not found =
in the pocket size recorders (for example, XLR input, phantom power, and di=
gital input).
The PMD661 may not be a good choice in this case because (1) its internal m=
ics are designed for voice recording in a conference room, and are not very=
good for nature recording, (2) its battery of 4 AA cells only lasts 5-6 ho=
urs, and (3) the PMD661 is a large, heavy recorder.
One small handheld recorder not mentioned so far is the Zoom H2. The H2's =
built in mics and preamp sound good, especially considering the recorder co=
sts $130. I can't recommend the H2 for use with external mics (too much pr=
eamp noise), but the internal mics are good.
Zoom is releasing a new recorder called the H1 in a month or so. Many onlin=
e audio retailers are advertising the H1 for $99. It will be interesting t=
o see if the H1 has the same good performance from its built in mics.
--oryoki
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