Mark Bridge writes:
By now, everyone who's anyone has offered an online 'unboxing' of their Asus Google Nexus 7. And if they haven't, there's probably a review on the way.
I'm very happy with mine. As a Nexus S smartphone owner, I found it familiar yet innovative. My already-purchased apps were available to download onto this new Android device at no additional cost. The features of Google's Jelly Bean operating system upgrade did exactly as I'd hoped.
But there was one particular 'usage scenario' I was curious about. How would it function as an audio recorder?
I've read many articles about radio reporters who just use an iPad or iPhone for their on-location reports. There's plenty of audio kit available to plug into an Apple device. What about the Nexus 7?
I had a good start. I already had the HiFiCorder and Tape Machine apps installed on my phone. The former offers a simple interface for audio recording, the latter provides recording and editing options. Both do a good job; a number of interviews broadcast on TheFonecast.com have been recorded via HiFiCorder.
I downloaded both to the Nexus 7 and recorded a few short tests. Disappointment. There's hissing and some high-pitched buzzing in the background that I'd not expect from something of the Asus tablet's apparent quality. I also experienced the occasional jump when the processor got distracted; something I've not previously noticed on my phone.
Sadly, plugging in an external microphone has no effect because the tablet insists on using the built-in mic.
Turning away from the dedicated recording apps, things aren't so bad. Making a call through Skype is okay, although I still don't seem to be able to use the microphone on a hands-free headset. At least that buzzing wasn't there. The same goes when I record from within Evernote.
So, in summary, the Google Nexus 7 is a great piece of kit when it comes to many things. Sadly, audio recording isn't one of the things it excels at. I'm sticking with my Zoom H4n and my Nexus S for now.
[Listen to audio clips via ipadio]