iTalk connects iPod to the real world

In prehistoric times, when cassette tapes ruled the Earth, people were known to hold their recorders up against their radio speakers to capture a song. The results were predictably primitive.

If only something like the iTalk were around then. (Food and shelter would have helped too.) Griffin Technology says the device, which plugs into the iPod's dock connector, "faithfully records under real-world conditions," including concerts, lectures and, yes, even open-air radio if you should so choose.

Griffin also claims that the $50 recorder has CD quality and an easy one-touch operation. But we think the smartest thing the manufacturer did was make it look like a natural part of the iPod, both in size and design. The last thing the tech world needs is another mutant.