Advice on mini disk recorders

Hi, all. I have a question to submit to you on behalf of a fellow in my Wednesday evening wood carving class. Last evening, I had a conversation with this fellow classmate, and he mentioned that he loves blues, plays the acoustic guitar, and has been attending blues guitar workshops for the past several years. He would like to record the music by the instructors at the workshops, and then transfer them to his PC so he can slow down the tempo of a song while he learns the chords/riffs. In short, he wants to be able to use a microphone and record onto either CD or mini disk, and thus needs a recorder that meets the following requirements:
1. it must be relatively small and battery-operated;
2. it must have an input for a microphone;
3. it must have a built-in DAC;
4. it is desirable that the unit also have digital output capability (so he can transfer the recording directly to his PC, although this may not be critical since he could play the CD or mini-disk in the computer's CD-ROM drive).
Last, although cost is not a major factor, it would be desirable if the unit sells (discounted) for around $250-300.

I have very limited knowledge of this type of recorder / player device, and would like input from anyone who has suggestions about which brand/model of mini-disk or CD recorder will meet the requirements outlined above. The other area of advice is regarding suitable microphones for use with the unit.

All suggestions/comments welcome.