There are many voice recording applications for the iPhone and/or 2nd generation iPod touch. Some are free; others aren't, but what they all have in common is that they all do what they're designed to do -- let you use your iPhone (or 2nd gen iPod touch) as a digital recording device.

Having tried a number of these apps, I think Griffin's recently released iTalk is one of the best (if not the best) and here's why:

First, its interface is clean and elegant, with every feature clearly labeled and easy to use.

Second, it's easy to operate. For example, to create a recording you type a name for it (or let the program auto-name it as Untitled, Untitled 2, Untitled 3 and so on), choose the recording quality -- Good, Better, or Best -- and tap the big red button to start recording.

Third, it offers good feedback while recording -- the elapsed time, current file size, and recording level are all clearly displayed.

Fourth, you can pause and resume a recording at any time, as many times as you like.

Fifth, playback on your iPhone is a breeze:

Sixth, it's simple to copy the recordings to your computer. For that you need the free iTalk Sync application (Mac only for now; Windows XP/Vista version coming soon). It uses your Wi-Fi network to transfer recordings from your iPhone to your Mac. Launch the program, drag recordings from the iTalk Sync application window to any Finder window or the Desktop, and you're done.

Other niceties include the ability to type text notes for any recording, easily manage recordings on your iPhone, and easily add additional audio to an existing recording.

The Bottom Line

It's easy to use and makes it easy to manage recordings on your iPhone. The free iTalk Sync application makes transferring files to your Mac (and soon, PC) a breeze. And the recording quality, even at the lowest setting, is excellent. Finally, you can't beat the price -- it's free -- but only for a limited time. So get your butt in gear and grab your copy before the price goes up.