OVERVIEW:
This is a 32-bit float, stereo audio recorder, with built-in X/Y microphones... that's less than $100 US. I'll spare the suspense, and just say I do recommend it, but there are more details below.

MAIN POINTS:
PART 1: IS IT PORTABLE?
PART 2: IS IT AFFORDABLE?
PART 3: IS IT COMMON?
PART 4: HOW’S THE QUALITY?
PART 5: IS IT EASY TO USE?
PART 6: NEEDS ADD-ONS?
PART 7: WHERE DO I BUY?

PART 1: IS IT PORTABLE?
I always ask this question when I buy and/or recommend something, and the answer for this one is definitely, yes. It's both small and lightweight, but the build quality is the best the Zoom H1 has ever been (the original H1 was ok, but always seemed to have the plastic mic protector bar break and version 2, the H1n was good, but the H1e is better).

PART 2: IS IT AFFORDABLE?
For what it is, I think it's super affordable.

PART 3: IS IT COMMON?
It's common on the new markets, and it seems to be selling well, so it might become common on the used market too...unless people realize how good it is, and not get rid of it (unless they upgrade, of course).

PART 4: HOW’S THE QUALITY?
So, I'm still working on a longer-term review, but so far the audio quality has been good, though a bit thin, but that's not always bad, as long as the files are easy to work with in post.

PART 5: IS IT EASY TO USE?
It's really easy to use because it's a 32-bit float recorder where you don't need to set the REC. LEVEL. Aside from that, I think it has just enough complexity to make one feel like it has some features, but not so many it slows you down...and you can use it without learning the advanced features, so that's always good.

PART 6: NEEDS ADD-ONS?
Yes, it does need a FURRY windscreen (for OUTDOOR use) and a shock mount, to make sure the recordings are not affected by vibrations.

PART 7: WHERE DO I BUY?
I bought it on Amazon.

RECOMMENDATION:
The Zoom H1essential is now my #1 budget recommendation for a stereo audio recorder. I used to recommend the original H1 (even when the H1n became available) but the 32-bit float feature of the H1e made it an easy decision. One underrated thing I like about the H1essential is the NUMERICAL headphone out level (perfect for a passthrough!)

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These reviews are just my opinion and are focused on my Q.P.A.C.E. packing method, so they're not comprehensive. I wrote these mostly to help me remember what items worked for my KIT PLANS (and which didn't). If I said anything negative I apologize, as these products still may work well for you in your situation, but they were not Q.P.A.C.E (Quality, Portable, Affordable, Common, Easy-to-Use) enough for my budget filmmaking KIT PLANS.