Griffin Technology iTalk iPod Voice Recorder with Mic and Loudspeaker

Rating:
Summary: Works well, when it's not locking my iPod
Review: This thing records well. I can put it in the floor in the middle of a circle of students about 10ft in diameter and have a recording good enough to grade them from. However, it doesn't always work. It tends to lock up my iPod and require me to do a reset. It locked my iPod today, and the 'pod won't reset. So I have to send the iPod back to Apple. This is with a carefully updated and maintained iPod. I've written to Griffin about the lock-up problem and have received no reply after six weeks.

Rating:
Summary: The best recorder for the Ipod
Review: This voice recorder is the best of the two available for the Ipod.

Pros: Fairly loud speaker; a headphone jack built in, which doubles as a line in for an external mic; decent sound.

Cons: blocks the lock switch, although a business card may be used to move the lock switch. Also, at times, the unit will lock up the Ipod if removed, replaced or some other combo. Just know how to reset your Ipod and you won't get stuck.

To get the best sound, hold the mic away from you. This seems to avoid any feedback/crackle sound.



Rating:
Summary: Fine For Voice Memos
Review: Was planning to write a long review but traveller-on-walkabout below nailed 90% of my comments. Bottom line. This is a passable product for low-quality voice memos. If you plan to use it for anything more you will likely be disappointed.

One more thing, I found that there is a rather long -- 4-5 second -- delay from when the device claims to be recording vs. when it actaully starts doing so. Have not seen that noted elsewhere so I'll assume it's a glich in my device.