Best Portable Audio Recorder / Field Recorder

[fishniw]

Hello,

I need to record a variety of different sounds for the band I'm in. Examples of sounds I plan on recording include: seagulls, kids playing/splashing in water, wind, crickets/grasshoppers, etc. I am hoping to spend under $300 but if will consider other things if that amount is not enough to budget towards a device.

Other important features
- Chromatic tuner would be nice
- Ease to transfer (USB or SD)
- Minimal noise
- Good distance range
- Ability for immediate playback (headphones or built in)

Thanks in advance

 

[sgosine]

I am a big fan of zoom recorders.

 

[fishniw]

I am a big fan of zoom recorders.

Do you prefer/use the H2 or H4?

 

[sgosine]

I have the H4. and it just does so much, like a mini 4 track recorder, and audio interface to name a few, its amazing for the price.

 

[MowingDevil]

You don't need the 4-track capability of the H4 (awesome portable mutli-studio btw) and instead can get the super most awesome Zoom H2 which will fit into your budget!

I've got one and its INCREDIBLE for field recording and even comes w/ a windsock. I used it recording wildlife and the results were spectacular. Honestly, I can't see how anything other than a Nagra or Tascam portable DAT could be better. Even then I'd prefer the portability of the H2 for travel...and when you need to grab an unexpected recording it only takes about 20 seconds to get the thing out of a case and in record mode.

√ - Chromatic tuner would be nice
√ - Ease to transfer (USB or SD)
√ - Minimal noise
√ - Good distance range
√ - Ability for immediate playback (headphones or built in)

Seriously, its got EVERYTHING you're looking for and more, Check it out:
ZOOM H2