Tascam DR-70D vs Tascam DR-680 mk1 vs Tascam DR-680 mk2 vs Zoom F8

I

IronFilm

Veteran
hmmm.... decisions decisions, a new Tascam DR-70D for only US$200 or 2ndhand Tascam DR-680 mk1 for US$320 or 2ndhand Tascam DR-680 mk2 for US$425 or a new Zoom F8 for US$1k??

(context: I'd be using it with several radio mics and a boom, and a Sound Devices 552 in front of it as a mixer, for low budget semi pro jobs, but with aspirations to move on up gradually as knowledge/budget allows)
 
All have different features and pros / cons. Depends on your budget/needs/wants. Peruse the manuals in depth and rent them for hands on demos if possible
FWIW, if you don't need to jam TC and will be using the SD front end, the 680's line inputs do not go through mic preamps like most others. I would assume the mkII the same.
Factor in an external battery/power system for the 680 or F8.
 
My vote goes for the Tascam DR-680 mk1 if you are using the SD 552 in front. I know a sound mixer who uses this combo for his "low-end" jobs.
 
I used a Tascam DR-680 mk1 on a 64 day shoot two years ago with a 302 for the boom(s), the 4 or 5 radios were direct line in. No reliability problems.. except occasional pilot error. The recorder was frequently subjected to high humidity, 95-F+ ambient temperatures, direct sun and subject to the other usual on-set abuses.
 
Already am doing that most of the time, but now and then I'd like to be able to do more than just a boom and one wireless.
 
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