The F4 is a great field recorder. It has four xlr audio inputs and you can add an EXH-6 to it to get an additional two xlr inputs. (ask for details) Alternative Sound Mixers include: H4n (2 channel) Mixer ($10) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/64208?type=rent H6 (4/6 channel) Mixer ($19) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/85204?type=rent Boom Microphones: Audio Technica 897 Boom Mic (AA-Powered) & Pole ($19) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/64218?type=rent Audio Technica 4073a Boom Mic (Phantom Powered) & Pole ($29) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/64256?type=rent Microphone Accessories: Orca Sound Bag ($15) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/86996?type=rent Zeppelin Boom cover (wind protection) ($19) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/64227?type=rent Auray Boom Pole Holder (For C Stand) ($5) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/64579?type=rent Lavaliers: 1X Sennheiser G3 (Lavalier) Tx/Rx ($19) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/85370?type=rent 2X Sennheiser G3/G2 (Lavalier) TX/Rx ($36) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/118489?type=rent 1X Sony UWP (Lavalier) Tx/Rx ($29) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/64215?type=rent 2X Sony UWP (Lavalier) Tx/Rx ($56) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/171159?type=rent Handheld Microphone: Shure SM57 ($10) - https://www.sharegrid.com/losangeles/l/82055?type=rent The recorder can pre roll. You can choose what method of recording up to 24 bit 96 khz. You can also record polywav files which will save you a lot of time in post having just one sound file with all mono tracks attached to it for each take. (For that reason alone, I recommend this recorder over the H6). It's also easier to adjust dials as needed. It takes 8 AA batteries to power the F4. It will also come with AC power and a foot mount to set it down if need be. If you need, you can also rent an Orca bag to be able to carry all of the audio equipment with ease. Get the F4 because it'll help with all of your shoots to stay on top of your audio on set and off set. Being that all of the display levels are horizontal and closer together, it's a lot easier to monitor everything than with other less professional recorders.