I gotta say, everyone is so quick to dismiss the DAT recorders. Although the convenience factors can not be denied, the quality of the recording (you remember - the end result, the reason you go through all this trouble in the first place) is debatable. Whereas, the R-09HR or other comparable machines are certainly easier, nothing really worth doing is ever that easy. Given the outcome of a side-by-side comparison, I don't believe there is a discernable difference that screams out that the flash recorder is better than the DAT. Remember, I'm not talking features, moving parts or post production, I'm talking simple listening pleasure. In the end, I would pick the M1 over the R-09 (which I believe was the original question here). I think the machine does a better job.
Now, the R-09 is easy to use (providing you have something to magnify the extremely small screen), but it also feels like an insignificant piece of nothing. The M1, on the other hand, feels like you're holding something - yet is still perfectly stealthable. You don't even have to get additional modifications or programs to shut off all those stupid lights that are screaming out to security "I'm over here". You know what I'm talking about! Although there are certainly more things that could go wrong with a deck that has moving parts, there are always things that could go wrong with any "machine". Just like there can be tape or loading issues (if you're not paying attention), there can also be an issue with a bad SD card. Shit happens, and it always will. The simple truth is that the question was Edirol R-09HR "vs" Sony PCM-M1. What is really the question? Was it which will give the best END RESULT, which is less problematic, which is easier to use, or which does not look like a shaver? Ultimately, the person who is asking for the help needs to establish what is the most important factor to them.
I am currently using an M1 and looking at different flash recorders. I can't imagine why I would replace one thing with something that isn't significantly better to me and for my needs. The M1 does a fine job! When I find a deck that does all the things I am looking for and a comparable size, I will make the switch. So far, I'm waiting on the Tascam DR-100. On that you have separate right/left level controls as well as a host of other benefits and the size is only about 1" longer than the M1. But only time will tell on that one. For now, I will stick with my trusty M1 and be more concerned with the mic modification I'm working on. Always attack the weakest link first...