In theory I like the idea of the 4+ channel recorders. I do have more than one set of mics so I could easily use some omnis and some cards at the same time. Or if I ever have the chance a soundboard plus external mics.
I was searching through the live music archive for different recorders to see how they are used and, for the 4+ channel models, the R26 isn't used much at all. I found that odd. But what do I know. Is there a "trendy" factor to recorders? I see the Tascam DR-60D and the DR-70D are represented much more often. It seems like a lot, maybe a plurality, of these recordings are a SBD + external mic recording. I appreciate F.O.Bean's (and Fried Chicken's) post. That's a pretty sound endorsement considering you had a Sound Devices 722
I'm not sure if that's a fair way to evaluate gear, but IMO it seems reasonable, since, it's likely these tapers know their gear (especially since many of the mics are like M300 and higher in cost and quality - these aren't casual tapers). Maybe I'll spend some time and to a deeper analysis using LMA data.
I do on occasion film stuff with my Canon T3i. I've used the CA-14s in those cases, but having a film-minded recorder could be a cool addition to my gear.
The 60D and 70D are both
very affordable and look very capable, so I'm naturally skeptical. I know that's probably an unreasonable POV since, for example the Line Audio CM3s are ridiculously cheap for the sound they pick up (based on reviews and my own hearing), but you get my point, I hope.
The 70D is still cheaper than the R26. Is it "better" though? Same for it compared to a 661 MKII or Fostex FR2LE. Looking through the LMA it looks like the Sony PCM-M10 and the Sound Devices 744T have huge numbers (>4,000 each). That's a huge range in price! Of course the M10 users have a preamp to go with it.
I watched a video comparing the Tascam DR-680 +/- a SD MixPre and to my ears it was no contest. Should I expect the same for the 70D? It seems like there aren't many choices when it comes to portable 2-channel preamps. Very few "boutique" ones that I can find too, especially in the sub-$500 range.
I found a Shure FP-24 for $490. I also read good things about the Audioroot Femto ($550 new). Can the 70D compete with them? It is much cheaper though...
Thanks for all the comments so far. There so much to learn!