5. iRiver B30

• Reviewed on: 7 May 10
• RRP: £179 inc. VAT
• Rating:

We have mixed feelings about the iRiver B30. It’s similarly priced to the 8GB iPod touch, which doesn't have an integrated DAB+ digital radio tuner (but offers a bigger screen, Wi-Fi and lots of apps). We’d definitely like the design to be improved; it's pretty much the most annoying thing about it.

4. Sony ICD UX80

• Reviewed on: 31 January 08
• RRP: £94 inc. VAT
• Rating:

The combination of crystal clear sound, easy-to-use function and a small and lightweight device make Sony's ICD UX80 a worthy purchase. Especially when you factor in a price that won't dent your pocket too much.

3. Olympus Linear PCM Recorder LS-10

• Reviewed on: 11 September 08
• RRP: £231.83 inc VAT
• Rating:

We were impressed by the Olympus Linear PCM Recorder LS-10. We'd like to see Olympus continue to pay attention to the somewhat fiddly user interface. However, once you figure it out, this is the system you need whether you're a student, a writer on assignment, or a musician trying to capture a few ideas. It's a shame that the price will put it out of reach of some of these users.

2. Sony ICD-SX800

• Reviewed on: 4 August 09
• RRP: £123.48 inc VAT
• Rating:

Around £150 is not the kind of money most people would spend on a digital notetaker, but if you’re a media professional who takes their job seriously, the Sony ICD-SX800 will not disappoint.

1. Zoom H1 Handy Recorder

• Reviewed on: 8 December 10
• RRP: £99 inc. VAT
• Rating:

The Zoom H1 Handy Recorder is unquestionably a bargain. Whether it’s a good fit for you depends very much on your need for extra features found on more expensive recorders such as the H4n and your ability to treat plastic gadgets with some respect. The Auto Level feature needs some work, but you can easily work around it by switching it off and manually setting levels. Do so and you can record some impressive-sounding audio.