I have the Sharp MD-702 minidisc recorder, and have been quite happy with it. I bought it for US$100, though a more common price is US$150. I has adjustable recording levels, and takes both analog and digital input. The quality is quite good, even with poor quality mics. It comes with a remote control which is useful when you're using it to listen... you can leave the unit in a bag, while using the remote control to adjust volume, change tracks, etc. Also, the remote control is backlit, a definate advantage in dark situations.