Tascam DR-05X

Start with a Zoom H2n or Tascam Dr-05x or whatever is on Craigslist for <$100. Zoom and Tascam are both good and get better with price. FWIW, using quality external mics (like Clippy's or Uzi Pros) is enough of an upgrade that the Tascam DR-05 sounds as good as my MixPre3ii for all but the quietest of recordings.

(Which in this case likely means finding an amazing deal on a used recorder from an estate or auction). The DR-05x has an Effective Input Noise (EIN) figure of (about) -108dB. I would recommend watching eBay (or similar) for a used Zoom H5 or H6, these (when available) can often be had for a great price for their performance level. I have not personally used the Tascam dr-60/70 series, but hear good things about them.

Not sure what’s got you fumbling around but phones also easier to use than the type of recorders audio journalists use. If you’re dead set on getting a digital recorder I’d recommend something basic like the Zoom H1n, Sony ICD-UX570 or Tascam DR-05X.

The Tascam DR-05x is a decent recorder for the price. But be aware that the built in microphones are omnidirectional.

I would recommend something like Zoom H1N or the Tascam DR-05X. I picked up the Tascam and it sounds great. Combining that with a shotgun mic like the Rode is fantastic if you have the funds.