Digital Recorders That Transfer Directly to iPod

• Discreet digital audio recorders are built into pens. pen image by Zbigniew Nowak from Fotolia.com

  Digital audio recorders are useful for a variety of purposes. Writers can use them for interviews. Students can use them to record important lectures. Musicians can use them to take down ideas for songs. If you want to be able to play back any audio you record on your iPod, make sure to buy a digital audio recorder that saves files in mp3 format. Though any iPod can play back raw audio files (.wav and .aiff), raw files take up far more space than compressed mp3s.

Samson Zoom H4N

• This model features a storage capacity of one gigabyte, which is equivalent to approximately 17 hours of recorded audio in mp3 standard format (standard format is 128 kilobytes per second). It is powered by two AA batteries with a life of 11 hours. Also featured is the ability to plug in a microphone through a 1/8" audio input.

Yamaha Pocketrak CX

• This model features a storage capacity of two gigabytes, which is equivalent to about 35 hours of recorded audio in mp3 standard format. It is powered by an internal rechargeable battery with a charge life of 3 hours and 40 minutes. Additional features include Auto Level Control and an onboard equalizer.

Olympus WS-500M

• This model features a storage capacity of two gigabytes and a built-in stereo microphone. You have the option of powering it with one alkaline AAA battery or using a Ni-MH battery that is chargeable by USB. The alkaline battery provides a life of 21 hours. Voice Activation mode allows for hands-free operation by triggering audio recording when sound is detected.

Tascam DR-07

• This model features a storage capacity of two gigabytes with a built-in stereo condenser microphone. It is powered by two AA batteries for a life of up to 7 hours and 30 minutes. An analog limiter built into the recorder limits distortion during high-volume input. Another nice feature for musicians is the ability to loop and repeat audio.

Livescribe Echo Smartpen

• This model is actually built as a functioning pen with a built-in microphone and camera. It has a storage capacity of four gigabytes, which is equivalent to approximately 70 hours of recorded audio in mp3 standard format. The recorder allows you to also save written notes while simultaneously recording audio, by using the included software. It is powered by an internal rechargeable lithium battery.