Best audio recorder for this situation.
 

I'm going to Africa and theft will be an issue. I have a couple HV30's that I don't mind getting stolen but I am worried about my Sound Devices 7series getting pinched.

My refurbed beachtek just died so I was thinking of getting another one. But maybe there's better options. I'll be doing alot of interviews with some ambient stuff thrown in. Equipment might get abused. Mics will be wireless senn's, an me66, shure sm57. I have lots of cf cards.

Budget. Anywhere from 0-600. Cheaper the better though, since it might not be coming back.

Any thoughts?

Juicedlink is a good alternative to Beach for an XLR-to-mini adapter. Quieter and a real mixer rather than just a passive adapter.

Africa is a big continent with a lot of countries, most of which are safe.

In the dangerous areas, you have a lot more to worry about than your gear, and you shouldn't be there.

Normally I'd say Sony PCM-D50. I love that thing. However, I've been to Africa and I'd pack an Olympus LS-10
LS-10

Have you thought about insuring your equipment? I don't know if it's worth the price though.

I decided on the juicedlink because I need the XLR's.

Steve, I hadn't even heard of juicedlink till you mentioned it so thanks. If it makes it through Africa I'll be able to use it for audio in other applications because I admit I put my gear at more risk than most. Ie I've killed, lost or had stolen a couple HV 20's and a beachtek in the last 18 months.

Guy, I always appreciate your responses and have bought from the DVE store many times.

Thanks everyone else.

new tascam FR2LE $500

used tascam HD-P2 or fostex FR something in the $500 range, new under $1k

The Tascam is the HD-P2 and the Fostex is the FR-2LE (or the professional, original FR-2).

If you have the money, the Sound Devices 702 and the new Nagra LB are much better.

FR-2 under 500.00
 

I just bought a FR-2 factory refreshed with full manufactures warranty from B&H for $446.00