Topic: As a second recorder, Zoom H1 or Tascam DR05 or...?

[adrianf74]

Right now, I'm tying to figure out what the next move would be when I pick up a second recorder for times that I can run open or have access to a board feed (i.e., run cards and omnis or a set of mics and a board feed).  Ideally, the Edirol R44 would be great because I wouldn't have to worry about timing, etc., in a matrix mix, however, I can't afford to drop $800-$1000 on one (and my mics are terminated at 1/8" anyhow). 

I'd like to keep the cost down low.  I used to have the (original) R-09 and I know they did tend to act up once in a while - mine did on the last recording I made with it so I wouldn't buy one used.   Based on "low cost," I've seen the Zoom H1 and the Tascam DR05 (both are available at around $80-90).  Anybody have any ideas here?  My mics would be powered either by a battery box or a Church Audio 9100 preamp.   And for board feeds, I'm thinking of picking up a -10dB (minimum) PAD. 

[F.O.Bean]

I would look at the Tascam DR5 over ANY Zoom products, but YMMV. I have even contemplated getting a DR5 because they are SOOOOO frickin cheap

[asobriquet]

Have you had a look at the Tascam DR2D?  I'm currently using one and really liking the ability to run 2 sets of mics (or 1 set of mics and a sbd feed) into it.  Might be a good option for you and your 1/8" terminated mics.  The prices have really dropped recently, too (B and H).

[adrianf74]

Have you had a look at the Tascam DR2D?  I'm currently using one and really liking the ability to run 2 sets of mics (or 1 set of mics and a sbd feed) into it.  Might be a good option for you and your 1/8" terminated mics.  The prices have really dropped recently, too (B and H).

Thanks.  This could be interesting but I'll need to do a little more research.  I'm worried about overloading the deck if I run mic in because some of the shows I do can be VERY loud.

[kylieshotpants]

I've had a Zoom H1 for just over 30 shows I run, line in batt box binaurals- never had any problems-great value for money

[adriktod]

I used Tascam DR5 and i like it but also there is one disadvantage of Tascam DR5, as sound quality of both same but the dead cat windscreen would fit much better on the H1 rather than DR-05.