Laurence said: Take a look at the Zoom H2n. I absolutely adore this mic.[/] and the Sound Quality is awesome! The only time I hear any noise coming from it is when I'm in a Room that is generating noise. ie: I can hear my computer HD's running, AC/Heater, People Rustling, etc. Other than that, the H2 does not generate any noise. It's crystal clear. I'm thinking of getting/using a 'Dead Cat' as it has quickly become my Audio Recorder for nearly everything.
I bartered for an H4N a month or so ago. Wow do I love that thing! It's a USB mic, a mono, stereo or 4 channel recorder, a USB audio interface, a four track recorder with effects, and it has niceties like limiters, a metronome and a guitar tuner built in! No, it's not a lot of features spread too thin...just amazing for the price!