Video+Audio
VIXIA: Higher level shooting, on a camcorder, gives you the most manual abilities to work with. Requires you to log and capture, or transcode in FCP X. 
KODAK Zi8: Easy to use and handle, shoots on HD, and requires some transcoding for editing in FCP 7.
FLIP CAM: Easy to use, least manual control over 
functions. Easy to drag and drop and edit into any system.
Audio Only
M-AUDIO RECORDER: Sound only, with small microphone. Good for sound projects, or recording audio interview. Manual function available. 
OLYMPUS RECORDER: Very easy to record, lower quality recordings. Better for in class language 
assignments, or for personal use.