I just got my 2008 B&H Pro Audio catalog and see there are a few new portable digital recorders (PDR) available now (catalog pages attached).

I need a PDR with on-board mics and also for off-board mic/wireless capture. I will be using it for capturing sound clips and the occasional interview.

I had an older M-Audio unit that just didn't sound or work good.

Now I see Sony has introduced the PCM-D50. It looks great except for the mini plug for the external microphone. Does anyone have any experience with this unit?

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/showthread.php?t=115498&highlight=sony+d50

I went with the Olympus LS-10 and I think it´s fantastic...

I just got the D50 and am very happy with it. However, I got it knowing I would never plug a microphone straight into its mini jack - it will always be used either solo with onboard mics or as a backup recorder, receiving line input from my mixer. I haven't even tested the mic input yet. Like you probably do, I have a feeling I wouldn't like the way it sounds.

That said, the onboard mics are really not too bad considering the price range. I would definitely get the furry cover for them as they are extra-sensitive to wind.

I think this probably holds true for a lot of portable recorders - as long as you don't need to use their preamps, they're great! The D50 is the best I've seen as far as build quality and self-noise, for what it's worth. Also very easy to use and pretty intuitive.

I just received the same catalog. There is also the Tascam DR-1 to consider. Obviously aimed at the Sony D50 but for less money. It's brand new so nobody has probably tested it yet but I like Tascam gear, I have one of their DAT machines and it was workhorse for years.

Best,

Dan