iPod Recorders
Third party accessories are now available to record high quality audio to fifth generation (5G) iPod models. These devices attach to the iPod, turning the media device into a stereo audio recorder. The three units are: Belkin's TuneTalk, Griffin's iTalkPro, and the MicroMemo from Xtreme Mac. A summary of the three competing iPod recorders currently available should help anyone contemplating a purchase.
TuneTalk from Belkin
Highlighted features:
* Charges while recording with included cable
* Offers real-time adjustable gain for changing noise levels
Cons:
* Pricier than competing units
* Does not include integrated speaker
"...TuneTalk Stereo does a more than competent job of recording loud, clear audio through its microphones - it's very strong in this regard; similarly, its combination of charging functionality and a stand will make it more practical than the alternatives for certain users. It's a premium performer at a premium price. Despite its omissions, we think it's a very solid product - a little shy of our high recommendation level, but a good option for people concerned about the quality and volume of their integrated mic recording, or simultaneous charging and recording."
Griffin iTalkPro
Product Page (released 11/30/2006)
MicroMemo from Xtreme Mac
- Accepts other microphones and line-in cables
- Optimized quality of its monaural mic and stereo line input
- Built in speaker for instant playback
"The addition of the mini jack on this product opens up the iPod to a whole new realm of possibilities for those who want a palm size recorder that captures great audio. The MicroMemo adds that functionality in a low-cost product that is easy to use and durable. When you think about what it delivers for its size and price, I can't see many people disagreeing this is a winner of a product."
"All things considered, XtremeMac's MicroMemo is the best audio recorder we've tested for fifth-generation iPods. Though it's not perfect - most notably, it's missing a few of the frills that Belkin packed in with its competing TuneTalk Stereo recorder - Xtreme made some smart compromises here, achieving a lower asking price than Belkin, importantly including a speaker, and optimizing the quality of its monaural mic and stereo line input."
Comments
XtremeMac has announced a version of their MicroMemo for the 2nd generation iPod nano. The product page is at: http://www.xtrememac.com/audio/earphones_recorders/micromemo_nano2G.php
This certainly make for a nice small recording package, although space considerations could be an issue on smaller nanos. Also, battery life could hamper longer recordings.
Posted by: Maurice Matiz | December 5, 2006 9:22 AM