I've been using the Zoom product for about 9 months. It's well worth the money.
I find the simplicity, the two omni-inputs, and the surprisingly good stereo microphones as the high points. It has a compressor, and that's a welcome bonus.
I use the 150+ speed 2 gig memory chips that you can get on sale for 15-20$ in it. I've tested it on various brands of slower and smaller chips and it never fails.
It has an interesting mount on it that enables you to mount it on a tripod to reduce any vibration. I've used that once.
The only thing I wish it had is a remote.
And if it were only slightly modified, I think it could be a good player as well. The jog-wheel style controller is pretty solid and scrolls you through your options quickly.