In the smallest form factor I too recommend the Sony M-10, since it has the
lowest self-noise rating using built-in mics. However the Olympus LS-5 has many
advantages, having the best build of all pocket recorders and a better
soundstage using the internal mics. It's also cheaper, so you can invest the
extra cash in external mics. For a full comparison read my article here:
http://www.theatreofnoise.com/2010/09/revisiting-sony-pcm-m10-versus-olympus.html
As Gianni Pavan suggested, the Sennheiser K6/ME66 makes a good inexpensive
addition, giving you additional "reach". Being able to point a shotgun straight
at the subject is more important than chasing the lowest noise figures. Put it
on a boom and get physically closer.
I also agree that the cheap and quiet Fostex FR2-LE is the recorder of choice
if you need phantom power on XLR and the ultimate low noise floor. But hauling
it around with a stand, bar, pair of mics, cables etc. is a lot bigger project
than simply pointing a shotgun with a pocket recorder in your, well, pocket.
-- Robin Parmar
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