However, anyone using the iTalk for important recording tasks-something more than archiving grocery lists, say-should test the iTalk thoroughly to verify that the files are recording properly. The same files often played just fine through the headphones, indicating that the problem originates in the speaker rather than the microphone. Occasionally, you can play the file by trying again, but other times the file stubbornly refuses to open. The files play for a few seconds, and then the menu inexplicably returns to the recording screen. For unknown reasons, it often fails to play recordings it just made through the built-in speaker.
Unfortunately, the iTalk isn't always at its best. Anybody using the iPod to transcribe recordings should definitely use the latter, as the audio is much crisper. It's decent through the built-in speaker when played at high volumes (the sound can be somewhat scratchy), but very good through the headphones.
It also picks up TV speakers and some ambient noise, depending on the situation. We tested the iTalk's microphone at distances of a few inches, a foot, 5 feet, and 20 feet, and each time it performed admirably. The recordings are clear and easy to decipher, and the microphone picks up sounds from all over the room.
In addition, the iTalk archives the date and time of the recording-a plus for people working on date-specific material.įeatures and Performance At its best, the iTalk performs solidly. Users can also connect an external microphone to the iTalk to enjoy additional recording options. This lets users plug their headphones directly into the iTalk rather than removing the device to access the iPod's headphone output. The second is a multifunction pass-through jack located on top of the unit. The first is an automatic gain control, which instinctively adjusts the signal level to achieve the best possible recording.
The iTalk includes a couple of features that help it stand out above competitors' products. Each time you sync your iPod to iTunes, the files transfer into an iTunes playlist also called Voice Memos, where you can listen to them on your computer or transfer them to other multimedia programs (they're saved as WAV files). The iPod then stores the files in a Voice Memos folder within the Extras menu. Once the device is connected, a user relies on the click wheel to record, pause, play, save, and delete files. It also pays tribute to the Apple ethos by requiring no setup: just plug it in and start recording (the recording functions appear automatically on the iPod screen). And the iTalk-with its smooth, white housing and slick, silver-colored speaker-fits in perfectly.
And because the iPod offers such a large storage capacity, iTalk users can literally record thousands of hours of voice audio without running out of memory, making the device far more convenient than a portable cassette recorder.ĭesign and Setup Griffin has been designing Apple accessories since 1992, so it's no stranger to the sleek styling encouraged by Steve Jobs and crew. Griffin suggests using the iTalk for any number of tasks, from recording personal memos and interviews to archiving class lectures to listening to an audiobook on the speaker without wearing your headphones. In its bid to make the iPod the handiest device on the planet (right up there with the Swiss Army knife), Griffin created the iTalk voice recorder, a combination microphone/speaker that attaches to your iPod's headphone and remote outputs.