Zoom H4n

First of all it just works. In the past I've recorded to cassette, dat & minidisc & I was always frustrated with either the lack of quality or the lack of reliability. I've used the zoom H4 quite a lot mainly outdoors & managed some great results. If I am travelling light I use the inbuilt mics which work quite well once you have figured out the optimum position for your instrument or the sound you want to capture. I have recorded acoustic guitar & vocals, ocean waves, gentle creek & bird sounds as well as frogs & insects. I love the fact that you can plug in favourite mics including condensors needing phantom power. The fact that it doubles as a computer audio interface with effects is an absolute bonus. My main focus with the zoom H4n is sound quality and ease of use. Click a few buttons and you are ready to record. It is a huge step up from the H4 which I have used for a couple of years. It feels more solid like a pro device. It is much easier to use, most of the functions that were buried four levels down in the menu system have been brought to the surface where you can find them. Using the stamina mode you can pretty much get a full day of stereo recording on one set of batteries. I bought the remote as well to avoid stretching out to press record with a guitar strapped on and a mic stand to reach over. It is a great recorder, it sounds good, it is extremely well thought out & designed,As a very satisfied owner I to tally recommend it. I am in the process of recording some more stuff for youtube over the next few weeks on the H4n so hopefully I will post some vids soon.