Sony PCM-D1 vs. Zoom H-4

It looks like Zoom has come out with something that looks to be a whole lot like the D-1 (which was discussed here at length).

They appear to be very similar. Only one is $1800 and the other is $299.

Do these two products compare? They sure look like it.

Yeah just another sign that Sony has become rediculous!

If all you're interested in is looks, then the Zoom is definitely more than 1/6 of the Sony. I'd have to say that in general it's more than 1/6 of the Sony which, on the surface makes it a better buy, but if there's a difference that's essential to you, then it's worthless.

There's a review of the Zoom in the November issue of Pro Audio Review which, as usual, suggests that it's a good buy for the money. If you have need for a $300 portable flash card recorder, it'll do the job. If you want quiet mic preamps for your $300, you won't get them. Reports are that the user interface is a bit clumsy when things get more complex than pushing the Record button. And I seem to recall that it's limited to a 2 GB memory card at this time.

I've been tempted to pick one up with the intent of trying it and returning it if I don't think I'll get much use out of it. But then I'm like that. Others want to be assured that it will be everything they dreamed of before ordering one and would never think of returning it. (yeah, I know, other countries and all that)