>>179604Well man it depends on how much you want to get into it/what kinds of recordings you want to do, and if you want to use pro equipment with the recorder.
I have a Tascam DR-40 beause it takes XLR external mic inputs, if you don't want that get a cheaper model (like DR-05 etc) and use the onboard mics (they are VERY sensitive so don't worry about them sucking!).
After that you'll want to look into some kind of windscreen to put over it, as those mics are very susceptible to the slightest wind. You should also get a tripod to hold it as they are also susceptible to handling noise. And finally you'll want a pair of cans/headphones that you won't mind taking out in wind/rain/woods/swamps/etc. I have a cheapish pair that does the job beautifully in the field.
If you start with what I have for example:
-Tascam DR-40: $200
-Windscreen for DR-40: $30
-Magnus 3-way Tripod(1): $10 (super cheap!)
-Cheap over-ear headphones (look for the low end AKG cheapo brands): $40
-At leat 8GB SDHC card: $15
I'd say you can start with under $500.
I recommending looking for all this stuff at B&H Photo, they're the best and the only ones who have amazing tripods like that for ten freakin' bucks.
Also, here's a quick recording I made with the sphere. Just got a fire started and my buddy was wandering around collecting wood. This really only works in headphones, and it's kinda messed-up because the vocaroo quality is so bad. The best part I think are the mosquitos that buzz around the ears!
http://vocaroo.com/i/s1XMuj4fu89P 