Just want to make sure I'm going to be buying the right thing...

Is there a specific model or model family I want? I want to be able to record on the go so I could use a recommendation on an external mic to use with it as well.

Thanks in advance for any help.

It's a good thing you asked. Some of the newer models either don't work, or don't work well with external mics. All of the iFP 700 and 800 series (i.e. 790, 890) work well with external mics. The 700 series has better mic placement if you want to use the recorder like a microphone and just have a small external mic plugged in, then the recorder itself becomes the mic "handle" or barrel.

I think both series 700 and 800 are the same quality.

I can't definitively speak for the newer "H" models, but I think those are the ones you must avoid. Maybe someone else can chime in with more tips.

You won't go wrong with the 700 and 800 series. The trick is just finding them. They are no longer made, but there are still quite a few on ebay. I got my 890 in January for $25 and it was factory refurbished with a warranty. Bought off of ebay. If I buy another one, I will get a 700 series to have the better mic placement.

Thanks,

I went with a 890 refurb based on your recommendation. I don't think mic placement will be an issue as I don't plan to use the built in mic at all.

I'll let you (and the world) know how things work out.

That is a good recorder. I have been pleased.

What I meant by the mic placement is when using an external mic and not the built in one. If you just want to plug in a mic like this one you have to plug it into the side of the 890. The 700 series you plug it into the top (or end) which makes it easier to hold for interviews.

If you are simply using this as a recorder and you will be plugging mixer or mic cables into it, then it does not matter.

BTW, the built in mic is horrible on the 890. The sound quality is fine, but you cannot touch the machine while recording. It picks up horrible handling noise.

I prefer the 89* series for the exact opposite reason.

I've got an XLR dynamic mic, and have a chord with a 3.5mm jack on the end. My 895 allows me to plug it in the side, instead of right beside (and competing for space with) the headphone jack!