Digital recorder

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Hi

I need some help choosing a digital recorder. It will be used for
recording lectures - about 8 hours at a time in a typical classroom.
An external microphone probably is ok though it won't be on the
lecturer's desk, it has to be on my desk. My current research shows
the iriver ihp could be a match and it does come with a external mic.
I would prefer a multipurpose device with good recording ability,
though most don't have any level indicator.

Any inputs appreciated.

Regards
Debjyoti