News Articles

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Review of Nexus 7 audio recording

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]

Print
Author: The Fonecast
1 Comments
Rate this article:
3.0

Categories: Handsets and manufacturers, OpinionNumber of views: 13660

Tags: android google tablet review

1 comments on article "Review of Nexus 7 audio recording"

3
0
Avatar image

juang

11/24/2012 5:59 PM

mine does the very same thing with the high pitched whine. this was almost a deal killer for me! as i do much songwriting this way. gonna call google.

Leave a comment

This form collects your name, email, IP address and content so that we can keep track of the comments placed on the website. For more info check our Privacy Policy and Terms Of Use where you will get more info on where, how and why we store your data.
Add comment

Follow thefonecast.com

Twitter @TheFonecast RSS podcast feed
Find us on Facebook Subscribe free via iTunes

Archive Calendar

«March 2024»
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
26272829123
45678910
11121314151617
18192021222324
25262728293031
1234567

Archive

Terms Of Use | Privacy Statement