The only advantage of the zoom apart from the price now which is more like $ 270, is that it can record 4 track from its 2 xlr and 2 internal mics. But as a filmmaker, I will always choose to have two quality preamps than some crappy zoom ones because most of the time we will use only one microphone. From everything I saw and heard the zoom XLR preamps are very noisy, unfortunately it is those thing/brand/model that gained traction from the early days of hdslr filming that would never go away.

Furthermore if you look at http://www.avisoft.com/recordertests.htm test, the Ls-100 is at the top part of the list, the best handheld recorder with XLR and better than the Rolland R-26 which is about $ 100 more. The internal microphone seems to be very good quality also. From what I read it had problem of latency for the headphone jack, but Olympus has remedied to that with a firmware update.

Test of the Olympus Ls-100 compared to the zoom h4

Anyone had the same problem?

I'm not wanting to buy a Zoom I don't think and I would like price to be reasonable and the ability to get to lavs into one system if possible.

• High-quality microphones for excellent, high fidelity audio quality
• 24bit/96kHz sampling rate for high audio quality
• XLR and line-in connectors to record various sound sources
• Price - around $278 at https://www.amazon.com/Philips-DVT7500-VoiceTracer-Audio-Recorder/dp/B01IYR3JOO

Page - https://www.dictation.philips.com/products/product/voicetracer-audio-recorder-dvt7500/

• Brass rugged electret capsule
• 96Khz, 24bit sampling rate
• 16gr weight
• Comes with windscreen and small deadcat
• Special case

http://www.aputure.com/en/A.Lyra.html

Main changes from first version:

1. Improved audio quality
   Through extended listening tests, a new op-amp and capacitor were selected for the mic preamps to deliver improved audio quality.
2. Support for SDXC cards
   Readily available SD/SDHC cards are used for recording media. The DR-680MKII also supports SDXC cards, which have higher capacities - enabling recording for long periods of time.
3. Take (file) numbers can be reset using the "Take No. Init" function
   The numbers added to recorded file names can be reset. Resetting the take numbers used for each recorded scene is now possible, making file management even easier.
4. Improved battery life
   The newly improved battery life of the DR-680mkII means that the battery now lasts 150% longer than previous DR-680.
5. Improved clock precision
   The precision of the built-in clock oscillator has been improved – making synchronization more accurate when used with video devices.
6. Dual recording function allows two files to be recorded simultaneously at different levels.
   A second file can be recorded simultaneously at a lower level for a distortion-free safety track. This allows you to set the recording level high and make a backup recording at a lower level in case of an unexpected sudden increase in sound level, which may create distortion in the primary file. The DR-680MKII can make −12dB backup recordings of audio input through inputs 1, 3 and 5.
7. Playback of multitrack recordings.
   The DR-680MKII can load multitrack audio files. Multitrack materials (multiple mono files) prepared with a DAW, for example, can be played back.
8. Support for lithium batteries
   In addition to alkaline and NiMH batteries, lithium batteries - which can provide extended power - are supported.

More info - http://tascam.com/product/dr-680mkii/

Features

• SD/SDHC/SDXC cards used as recording/playback media
• 6 balanced mic/line inputs (1-4: XLR/TRS combo jacks, 5-6: TRS jacks)
• 6 unbalanced outputs (RCA pin jacks)
• COAXIAL digital input and output (S/PDIF, AES/EBU)
• Recording/playback formats: BWF, WAV, MP3
• With BWF format, recording starting times can be stored in files
• 8-track recording at 24-bit/96kHz (BWF, WAV)
  6 mic/line inputs and stereo mix recording or 6 mic/line input and digital stereo recording •Record MP3 files at 96, 128, 192 and 320 kbps
• Record 4-channel MP3 files
  • From 4 mic/line inputs (XLR/TRS combo jacks) or 2 mic/line inputs and digital stereo inputs •2-track recording at 24-bit/192kHz (BWF, WAV)
  • From 2 mic/line inputs or digital stereo inputs •Digital inputs and outputs support double speed 96 kHz and quad speed 192 kHz
• Sampling frequencies
  44.1, 48, 96, 192 kHz (BWF, WAV) 44.1, 48 kHz (MP3) •Quantization bit depth: 16/24-bit (BWF, WAV)
• 6 channels of TASCAM HDDA mic preamps for high audio quality with 48V phantom power
• Limiter and low-cut filter available on each mic/line input
• Built-in stereo monitoring mixer for headphone mix and/or recording
• Dual recording function allows two files to be recorded simultaneously at different levels
• GANG function allows the input gain of multiple channels to be operated simultaneously
• Pre-recording function allows the capture of audio two seconds before recording is started
• Automatic recording function can start and stop recording automatically in response to the input signal level (−48, −24, −12 or −6 dB)
• Even when multiple tracks are used, all recordings made at the same time can be managed as a single take/file
• Track incrementation allows a recording to be split by creating a new file at the desired point without interrupting recording
• Up to 1000 takes and 5000 files can be recorded on a single card
• Mark function can be used to move to specific points (up to 99 marks per take)
• Wheel can be used to change the playback position
• Repeat playback function
• Panel lock function to prevent misoperation
• Cascade function allows transport control of multiple DR-680MKII units using a master unit
• File name format can be set to use a user-defined word or the date
• High-speed transfer of files to a computer using USB 2.0
• 128×64-dot matrix display with backlight
• Built-in mono speaker with 500mW output
• Headphone output and level control (50mW+50mW/ 32ohm)
• Powered by 8 AA batteries or the included AC adapter
• USB cable and shoulder strap included
• Folding stand convenient for tabletop use

Cost: $22 shipped :-)

http://ali.pub/kbtfg

Cost is around $200

http://www.amazon.com/Saramonic-SR-AX107-Two-Channel-Preamplifiers-Transformer/dp/B00SSLCON4/

I know you VK have quite often suggested MXL shotguns as a good low price alternative, what do you think of this particular model?

https://www.adorama.com/mxlfr330m.html

https://www.adorama.com/azsgmpdii.html

I can use a splitter to use the TRRS input on the H4n to connect two TRS. But its the two TRS into two XLR inputs that has me stumped.

TASCAM’s DR-10C-series recorders connect to your lavaliere microphone to create a compact recording system that fits on a belt pack. Two versions are available: the DR-10CL for Lectrosonics mics and DR-10CS for Sennheiser microphones. Additionally, option kits are available for Shure (AK-DR10CH) and Sony/RAMSA (AK-DR10CR.)

The DR-10CL & CS recorders have both inputs and outputs, so they can either be used stand-alone or with a wireless transmitter. When used with a transmitter, the DR-10C acts as a backup to protect against wireless dropouts during recording. For lectures or worship services, the DR-10C can record the entire program before it gets to the front of house system. And for events like weddings and reality TV production, the DR-10C is a compact recording system for body mics.

The lightweight DR-10C runs for hours on a single AAA battery.

Specs

• Micro Linear PCM Recorder for Wireless Beltpacks
• 48kHz/24-bit mono digital recording
• Uses standard microSD/microSDHC card media (up to 32GB)
• Dual Recording feature captures a safety track in case of distortion
• Two models for Lectrosonics and Sennheiser mics, option packs for Shure, Sony, and RAMSA
• Hold function prevents accidentally switching off the recorder (All keys cannot operate during recordin)
• Limiter and low-cut filter on input
• Auto gain control
• Records BWF file timestamped with time of day clock
• Time Track increment function writes new track after a preset amount of time.(There is on/off setting, but the time is 15 minutes fixed when turn it on)
• OEL display for easy visibility in any light condition
• More than 8hours recording on a single AAA battery
• Settings can be created with text file on PC and transferred to DR-10C via USB connection
• Infrared data communication for transferring setting information among DR-10C
• $199 price, available at November 2014

http://tascam.com/product/dr-10c/

It's a miniature audio recorder called the "Little DARling" - Distributed Audio Recorder. The Zoom H1 is a great recorder. But, there are times when guys really don't want the internal mic because are going to use a lavaliere, and I just want something really small ... like, belt-pack sized ... but those voice recorders just don't have the quality people are looking for.

Check http://www.juicedlink.com/blogs/news/13161873-new-for-nab-little-darling-distributed-audio-recorder

• records to SDHC card
• sturdy construction
• build in condencer mikes
• is able to record in WAV with 44.1, 48 or 96kHz, 16 or 24bits
• MP3 bitrate from 32 to 192kbit/s
• digital S/PDIF input
• Two balanced mike/linear inputs XLR-1/4"m with phantom power option
• big oled display with adjustable brightness
• minijack input
• 2x RCA output
• USB 2.0 port
• 2 AA batteries or AC brick power
• up to 7 hours recording on batteries
• $399 price

http://soundsharkaudio.com

The smallest would be Instamic At 1.5 x 1 x 0.5 in (38 x 25.4 x 12.7 mm) the Instamic is pretty discreet and will reportedly attach to pretty much anything. It is provided with a variety of mounting options, including a magnet, velcro and adhesive tape. https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/instamic-the-smartest-microphone-ready-to-record-video-music#/story

Then there is the Tascam Tascam DR-10X micro audio recorder with XLR connection http://www.newsshooter.com/2015/01/22/tascam-dr-10x-micro-recorder-with-xlr-connection/

Tascam DR-10L Digital Audio Recorder with Lavalier Mic http://tascam.com/product/dr-10l/

PenRecorderPro SL200 Voice Recorder Pen, Audio Activated, Small Recording Device, LCD Display, PCM Broadcast Quality, Wired Remote (Slimline Series)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01GKI0WTE/ref=pd_cp_229_2?ie=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=7J3Z9PNKWFG9M3ST1P2G

Improvements

• Large SDXC cards support up to 128GB
• Larger 128 × 128 resolution LCD
• Better thermo stable quarz by TCXO;
• Dual Recording function recording file at different levels
• Extended Recording Information to write meta information about all recording settings
• Recording in WAv and MP3 in same time
• Headphones output improved up to 2 × 40 mW
• Work from LiIOn battery of 3950mAh (around 3x compared to old models)
• Alu case
• Better HDDR preamps. AK4558 AKM DAC with 102db signal/noise performance.
• New connectors by Amphenol for combined mic and line inputs for XLR.
• Available for $399 at https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1263849-REG/tascam_dr_100mkiii_linear_pcm_recorder.html

Available at http://www.ebay.com/itm/Saramonic-MixMic-2-channel-XLR-Audio-Mixer-with-Microphone-Kit-/131861683144

• Suspended capsules in XY arranging, two other capsules pointing sideways
• 8Gb build in
• LiIon battery, 3.7V 280mA
• SNR: ≥85dB
• record PCM, MP3
• Up to 33 hours recording with turned off backlight
• 88g
• manufacturer page - http://www.aigo.com/product-227.html
• Price around $65 inc shipping at https://www.aliexpress.com/item/Aigo-R6601-8GB-Digital-recorder-professional-HD-MP3-mini-noise-reduction-support-ADPCM-WAV-lithium-battery/32740810718.html

**

Olympus DM-620

• Record both high bitrate MP3 and PCM WAV, 3 mikes
• External input
• From $85 refurbished - https://www.amazon.com/Olympus-142665-DM-620-Voice-Recorder/dp/B004S561V0/

Panasonic RR-XR800

• Record both high bitrate MP3 and PCM WAV
• Two very high quality Panasonic mikes
• External input
• From $98 new - https://www.amazon.com/Panasonic-RR-XR800-Personal-Digital-Recorder/dp/B004OA7QXG/

Key features:

• Six analog inputs (3+3); three full-featured mic/line preamps plus three line-level inputs, each with dedicated front-panel faders and PFLs
• 10-track recording, polyphonic or monophonic broadcast WAV files @ 24-bit 48 kHz (96 kHz and 192 kHz sampling for 6 tracks), time code stamped MP3
• Simultaneous or independent recording to SD and CompactFlash card
• 6 mix buses, left/right main plus Aux 1/2/3/4
• PowerSafe Circuitry offers complete file protection from power loss. Ten second internal power reserve closes files and shuts down unit.
• Quad Powering offers class-leading powering flexibility from four available power types, easily power the 633 for a full production day
• Two second power on-to-recording. Never wait on sound!
• AES input, two-channel AES3 or AES42, four channels of AES output
• Accurate Time Code Master Clock generator and reader, 0.5 frame per day accuracy
• Clear, fast, easy to navigate controls and interface; visible in all light conditions, configurable metering and display
• USB Keyboard connection for quick and easy metadata entry.
• User-configurable headphone presets plus a headphone favorite mode for quick source selection
• Small, lightweight, compact chassis made from molded, metalized carbon fiber

http://www.sounddevices.com/download/lit/633_sell_sheet.pdf

NTG 4 is upgrade for NRG 1 and NTG 2, not NTG 3.

NTG 4 has build in battery.

Specs

• Supercardioid Directional Pattern
• Frequency Range – 20 to 20,000 Hz (selectable HPF at 75 Hz)
• Sensitivity -32 dB re 1V/Pa (25 mV at 94 dB SPL) ± 2 dB at 1,000 Hz.
• 200 ohm Output Impedance
• Equivalent Noise – 16 dBA SPL (per IEC651)
• Maximum Output – 7 dBu (at 1 kHz, 1% THD into 1 kOhm)
• Dynamic Range -119 dB (per IEC651)
• Maximum SPL – 135 dB
• Signal to Noise Ratio – 78 dB SPL (per IEC651)

• Output Connection – 3-pin XLR

• NTG4 $349 - http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1115088-REG/rode_rodntg4_ntg4_shotgun_microphone_with.html

• NTG4+ $399 - http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1115089-REG/rode_rodntg4plus_ntg4_shotgun_microphone_with.html

More info - http://www.rode.com/ntg4

Available in February

• Records Up to 4 Channels Simultaneously
• Screw-On DSLR Camera and Mount to Tripod
• Operates on 4 AA Batteries
• Up to 24-bit, 96 kHz PCM Recording
• Two XLR/TRS Combo Mic/Line Jacks
• Switchable 24V and 48V Phantom Power
• 3.5mm Stereo Input with Plug-in Power
• Mic Preamps for Each Input
• Records to SD or SDHC Cards
• Transfer Audio to Computer via USB Port
• Price:$349.00

Available at:

• http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/929347-REG/tascam_dr_60d_4_ch_track_linear_pcm.html

Manual: http://www.avisoft.com/DR-680.pdf

Available at (price, from $424):

• http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_stpos&_fcid=168&gbr=1&_localstpos&_sacat=0&_nkw=Tascam%20DR-680&_clu=2&_sop=15
• http://www.amazon.com/Tascam-8-track-Portable-Digital-Recorder/dp/B0036VC3I2/
• UK : http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tascam-DR-680-8-Track-Portable-Recorder/dp/B003BRDAEW/

Specs:

• Stereo X/Y condenser microphone
• 80Hz low cut
• Integrated shock mount
• Durable cast aluminum alloy body
• Back-electret condenser microphone
• Frequency response - 35 to 20,000Hz
• Sensitivity -42dB ±3dB, 0dB=1V/Pa, 1kHz
• Signal-to-noise ratio - 75dB
• Power - 3V battery
• 115 x 45 x 55mm
• 72g
• Price - about $100 shipped

Available at:

http://www.aliexpress.com/item/Boya-BY-VM100S-Stereo-Video-Mic-for-DV-DSLR/1015975900.html