I’ve been asked by so many ag journalists which digital audio recorder to buy that I thought I’d do a post on it so I can just send the link the next time I get the request. I have multiple recorders and usually travel with 2 of them. I’ll list them in the order of my favorites here with a few comments.

1. Marantz PMD620: Feels solid and is simple to use. It just took Marantz a while to come out with their small form factor. I also have a PMD660 which is probably the best digital recorder made but it’s just too big for my pack anymore.

2. Edirol R-9: This is a great recorder too. Very close in size and ease of use to the Marantz.

3. Zoom H2: This recorder is less expensive than the two above but delivers just as good quality in my opinion. I’m sure you extreme technophiles will disagree after checking the full s/n ratios, etc. but I don’t hear it for interviews. It comes with some handy accessories too like a stand.

4. Tascam DR-1: I haven’t tried this one but it looks good. I always liked the Tascam equipment I’ve used in the past.

5. Olympus DS-50: I haven’t tried this one but it looks good.

One of the best places to buy (although I’d Google around) is Broadcast Supply West. I recommend re-chargeable AA batteries and have been using the same set of 12 for almost 3 years with no problems. A 1GB SD card is plenty of memory. I record at 64K, MP3, Mono (normally). Edit with Audition (PC) or Soundbooth (Mac). I sure wish they made Audition for the Mac!

I hope this helps.