Featured here is the VeriCorder directional mini microphone.  This microphone is similar to the other mini mics we have a looked at, except the VeriCorder rotates 180 degrees and is designed to capture sound from any direction.

If you are a journalist wanting to record your next scoop or a university student who wants to record your lectures, this mini microphone is for you.

The swivel feature allows this mic to be directed towards the iTouch user or someone else.

Unlike other microphones we have reviewed this mic cannot be missed. Which is nice when you want to interview someone with your iTouch.

This mic can also be used with your iTouch to preform Skype calls. According to VeriCorder’s manufacture making Skype calls is as easy as 1-2-3:

1. Insert Mic
2. Make call
3. When call connects press speaker.

This microphone is compatible with any mp3 player or smart phone that has a 3.5 mm mic jack. This includes the iPhone, Blackberry, iPod Touch 2G (and newer), and iPad.

Made by V-Moda the Faze headphones isolate background noise so the only thing you hear is your iTouch’s tunes. Reducing outside noise enables a deeper base.

These headphones are built tough with a Kevlar reinforced cable. Light weight, ergonomic and stylish, the V-Moda Faze headphones are a fantastic buy.

As V-Moda says:

With quality materials and fashion-forward design, Faze headphones offer their user the finest in sound and style. Active Flex Ear Hooks create a secure fit for the active lifestyle. Featuring warm mids and crisp highs that blend with full bass to give a superb listening experience.

Like the other products we reviewed, the Faze headphones come complete with a microphone and inline remote. The microphone records high quality audio and can be used as an external iPhone/iPod Touch microphone (see how to convert an iPod Touch into a iPhone).

Some bonus items included with these headphones are:

• a free headphone splitter so you can share your audio (two users can listen at same time).
• Four pairs of silicone earbud fittings (XS, S, M, L)

The V-Moda Faze headphones work with an audio device that have the 3.5mm jack. This includes the iPod Touch, iPod, iPhone, iPad, computers, gaming devices and other MP3 players. However the built in microphone is only compatible with recording devices such as the iPad, iPod Touch Blackberry and iPhone.

Modeled after a simple thumbtack this microphone is quirky yet effective.

According to SwitchEasy, their thumbtack mics are easy to use and have many applications:

ThumbTacks allows you to fully unleash your iPod’s secret potential*… Recording, It couldn’t be simpler to use! Push your Thumbtack into your 3.5mm headphone jack and your iPod will automatically turn into a voice recorder*. So next time when you need to record class dictations, office meetings, or even covering the next big story, don’t forget to bring along your ThumbTack.

This iPod Touch microphone is 36mm by 13mm and weighs about 4.5 grams. Tiny by any measure.Works with the iPod Touch 2G, iPhone 3G, 120GB iPod Classic 120GB and iPod 4th Gen iPod Nano’s.

The Mini Thumbtack is available in Red, Black, White.

Pin your iPod now.

Radius explains about the Atomic Bass headphones and their capabilities:

Is the bass really atomic, you ask? Scientifically, no. But it is shockingly potent at any volume. If you love it loud, consider listening in a controlled environment until you become accustomed to the Atomic Bass performance. Rocking to Hawking (or other intellectual subject matter) Respecting the sweet serenity of those around youAtomic Bass ear buds are for those who care about excellent sound.

These headphones have an inline microphone and remote that allows you to answer calls on the go. This means you can remotely control your music without even looking at your iPod Touch.

You can find these headphones available in 3 different colors:

Black

White and Red

White and Silver

The microphones design is super light and the earbuds are interchangeable for comfort. It comes with 3 different pairs of ear plugs, small, medium and large.

For the audiophiles out there, the Atomic earphones specs are:

20Hz-20 kHz Sensitivity – (1 kHz, 0.1V) 103dB Impedance – 32 Ohm

For everyone else, this means these headphones will pump your tunes! No only that, but when your tunes are interrupted by a Skype call you can easily use you attached microphone to answer.

Compatible with iPhone, iPhone 3G, iPod Touch 2G and iPad.

Buy these headphones with inline mic here:

• Black Model
• Red and White Model
• Silver and White Model

This microphone is a must have if you want to convert your iPod Touch into and iPhone.

According to Handsfree this microphone is:

The best in quality and design headset to 3.5mm adapter with microphone and remote buttons built-in. Simply plug one end to your iPod or iPhone devices (any models / versions) and the other end is the universal 3.5mm female adapter so that you can use any of your favorite dual headphones with a male 3.5mm plug and you will have a hands-free + stereo headset which you can use to make or receive phone calls and also listen to music from your devices stereo.

This iTouch microphone is a great addition to current headphones that don’t have a mic built in.

Compatible with all versions and models of the Apple iPod Touch or iTouch. And also work with the iPhone 2G 3G 3gS.

• Microphones that come attached to headphones (headphone/microphone combos)
• Microphones that are adapters in which your earphones plug into (mic adapters)
• Microphones that plug directly into the iTouch (mini microphones)

In this article we have weighed the good and bad of each different type of iPod Touch microphone.

Headphone microphone combinations ($$$)

The good

Not only do you get a new microphone you get a new set of headphones.
There is a large selection of headphone/microphone mixes on the market. Everything from low quality cheap mic combos to high quality expensive top of the line microphones.

The bad

These can be the priciest iPod touch microphones. Even though you can get a simple pair for around 20 dollars, they are still more expensive than microphone adaptors or mini mics.

Reviewed headphone/microphone combos

• Apples stock iPod Headphones with Microphone
• Tunebuds Mobile – iTouch Earbuds and Microphone
• Atomic Bass Headphones and Microphone

Microphone adapters that attach to your headphones ($$)

The good

If you have a nice set of headphones, you can use this mic in addition to your current set up. This means pretty much any set of headphones can have a mic from small earbuds to big earmuffs.

The bad

Microphone adapters add another connection, another connection that gets disconnected easily. This may not seem like a big deal, but when your headphones cut out for the 50th time you will be wishing for a different iTouch mic.

Reviewed headphone mic adapters

• Griffin SmartTalk Headphone Adapter
• Handsfree Microphone Adapter for iPod Touch

Mics that plug directly into the iTouch (mini mics) ($)

The good

Mini microphones are a lot cheaper than other types of mics for the iTouch. The capsule microphone costs under 2 dollars.

Useful for recording quick notes

The bad

The downfall with iTouch Mini microphones is that they take up the space for your headphones. This means you cannot use your iPod Touch headphones while using your mini mic. You will have to rely on your built in iPod touch speakers for audio when using the mini mic. This can be annoying in a number of ways. EDIT: Very annoying because the Skype app automatically mutes the external speakers when the mini mic is plugged in. Not recommended to be used for Skype or any other VOIP programs for that matter.

Imagine being on a Skype call and having to put the caller on ‘speaker phone’ to talk to them. Also the iTouch internal speakers sound quality is a heck of a lot worse then having the audio ring directly in your ears.

There aren’t that many mini microphones to choose from.

Reviewed headphone/microphone combos

• Mini Capsule Microphone

As you can see there are pros and cons to each of the 3 types of iPod Touch microphones. Weight your options before your buy.

Personally we think the iPod Touch microphone/headphone combos are the best choice. The higher price is more than worth it for having more choice and better quality.

Now that you know about the different types of iTouch Mics, browse though our product reviews and decide which microphone is right for you.

Like other microphone products we have reviewed, this mini mic is plug and play so you don’t need specific software to set it up. 100% compatible with the iPod Touch this microphone works with your already installed iTouch microphone applications.

As the name describes, this microphone is a capsule and can be easily stored. When not in use the cap can be placed over top of the microphone for safe keeping. The mini microphone also works off of the iPod Touch’s main power supply so there is no need for additional batteries. Measuring 36mm by 13mm this ‘capsule’ could probably be swallowed (don’t do it though!).

According to the manufacturer, this mini mic is perfect for every day activities:

Whether conducting an interview, taking lecture notes, or capturing the sounds of life happening around you, simply attach Mini Microphone to your iPod or iPhone for immediate voice recording capabilities.

Drawback

The downfall of the capsule mini microphone is that it uses the place of your headphone jack. You cannot use your earphones while using this mini mic. If you are wishing to make a Skype call for example you need to work off of the iPod Touch’s build in speaker system. Not only will your caller be on ‘speaker phone’ but you will have difficulty hearing them on the other end. For this reason we suggest buying a headphone microphone combo.

Compatible with iPod nano 4G, 120GB iPod classic (with software already on the device), iPod touch 2G and iPhone 3G (need downloaded software).

If you want the cheapest iPod Touch microphone to record your thoughts, Shazam your tunes, and use all the iPod Touch applications that need a microphone the iTouch mini capsule is for you. At the extremely low price listed at the link below (under 2 dollars!), you have nothing to lose!

1. Writing Notes

Whenever you travel to a new country there are always tidbits of information you want to quickly jot down or remember. Address’s, hotel names, tourist destination info can all be quickly imputed into the iPod Touch’s notes app to be retrieved at a later needed date. Whenever I hear of a good hotel from a fellow traveler, I quickly make a note of it.

2. Recording Memos

Similar to notes, memos are used to record (iTouch Mic needed) quick bits of info. In countries where English isn’t the primary language I have found voice memos to be extremely handy to pass messages between two native speaking individuals. I just get one local to speak directions and then play them to another local. Every traveler knows the headache of accidentally pronouncing directions wrongly and being taken to an undesired location.

3. Your Music!

What is an iPod without the tunes it carries?! Having your favourite tracks while traveling heightens the experience. Whether you want to listen to songs to become less homesick, or a little reggae on the beach, the iPod Touch is a must. The iTouch’s external speaker allows you to share your tunes with the travelers you meet. Warning – playing catchy songs may lead to a party – believe me I know!

4. Exchanging information with other travelers

Having an iPod Touch is like having the worlds Rolodex in your pocket. The simple stock address book that comes with every iTouch is very handy for recording other travelers information. The best thing about traveling is the wide variety of people you meet along the way. These connections are extremely valuable to keep and the iTouch facilitates the process. Now with applications like Bump you can simply touch hands to trade contact info – no need to reach for the pen and paper.

5. Currency Exchange Rates

I would say the ability to see live up to date currency exchange rates is my most used travel feature of the iPod touch. I find the currency app to have all the functions I need.  When I was traveling around South East Asia I was constantly crossing borders and changing money. Being able to know exactly what the price of your currency is on a certain date can save you an upwards of 10% by allowing you to shop around.

There was a time I actually found a currency exchange giving a better rate then the real market price. I unloaded all the money I had on me at the time and was able to pay for a week of hotels with the profit!

6. Skype and other VOIP

When traveling an expense that can quickly add up is the cost to phone home. Skype and other iTouch VOIP applications make cost mere pennies to call home. These days even 3rd world countries are starting to have city wide wi-fi access. I have been in rural jungle Asia speaking crystal clear back home to North America – every time I find it amazing!

Further reading – How to convert your iPod Touch into an iPhone with Skype

7. Being able check and store email

Checking your emails goes without saying since everyone traveling wants to stay in touch with loved ones back home.

I use the email function at a different level – data storage. Before I go on a trip I email myself a copy of my passport, my health insurance, bank numbers and anything else I may need in case I get robbed or lose my documents. In one of my experiences I was at a border crossing and forgot a copy of my passport. I presented my iTouch with my passport displayed on the screen and the border attendant was able to use that info to let me into the country!

8. Passing time

The Apple app store is jam packed with all sorts of games that are a savior when waiting for a bus, train or plane.  When traveling there is a lot of downtime and the iPod Touch can help make that time fly by. Puzzle games like Line Up and Flood it have killed many of my waiting hours.

9. Keeping up to date on current events

Another category of Apps that the iPod Touch has zounds of is news aggregators. With a wi-fi connection you can instantly download all the stories of the day into your pocket. Also you can subscribe to podcasts that allow you to keep mentally sharp and globally up-to-date. When traveling I always have the need to keep up-to-date with what is happening in the country I am traveling as well as back home.

10. Journaling and scrap-booking

When traveling, you are constantly facing new situations and running into new ideas – basically you are creating memories. It is common to record your experiences so that you can look back and relive you travels.

The iPod Touch has a bunch of apps that allow you to clip webpages, write journal entries and even blog your experiences. I make sure to keep a log of the tips I pick up while traveling so I can help others and learn along the way.  Other travelers I have met kept detailed web clippings of every place they stayed.

Bonus: Maps

The iTouch map apps allow you to know where you, where you’ve been are and where you are going. There have been times when I was completely lost and the map features helped me navigate out of a bind. Although some countries are not yet fully Google mapped, you can usually get a general idea of your surrounding area.

A common unknown about the iPod Touch is that it has GPS like capabilities so you can always see where you are on the map.  Super handy wherever you go!

In short my iPod Touch has been a great asset throughout my travels. Now I am almost dependent on it and I cannot see how some people manage to travel without it!

If you are in the market to purchase a 3rd Generation iPod Touch Amazon is currently offering them at the best price here.

Are there any valuable ways you have used your iPod Touch while traveling that we have missed?

These newly designed headphones trump what Apple previously shipped with its iPod because they include a highly sensitive microphone and inline remote control.  However like any stock product there are a couple areas in which these headphones could be improved. This headphone/microphone combo contains a wide range of functionality.  It has a super sensitive microphone that you can use to record voice memos or speak to your friends on Skype.  It essentially allows your iTouch to function as an iPhone. Stock iTouch headphones have a remote attached to the right earphone cord which allows you to control your tunes with your iTouch safely stored in your backpack or pocket.  You no longer will need to pull out your mp3 player to pause your music, control your volume, skip your songs or repeat your favorite tracks.

Like all Apple earphones, these are only available in their flagship white color.

Where the stock iPod Touch headphones fall short is they fail to provide any audio dampening. The earbuds are comfortable but they do not form to your ear.  Also, like any mass distributed product the material these headphones are made from isn’t the highest quality.  If you would like more information about the downsides of the Apple stock iPod Touch headphones, visit our article why you should upgrade your iPod Touch stock headphones. If you are looking for an upgrade from your stock headphones you can find a wide variety of solutions on our products page.

This product is compatible with all iPods however the microphone/remote functionality only works with the 2nd gen iPod touch, 4th generation iPod nano, 120 GB iPod classic and iPad.

If you are willing to pay a little bit more you can get headphones that have:

• Better quality bass and acoustics
• More comfortable earphones
• Stronger quality materials
• Increased microphone sensitivity

The stock iTouch Microphone/Headphones are not built from top quality materials.  Actually one of our demo products broke within a couple days of use.  The problem is the headphone plug is strait and can easily be broken off while in your pocket or plugged into other devices (ours broke on an airplanes arm rest).  Other products we have reviewed have more streamlined plugs so they can swivel without being stressed.  This cuts down on the chance of you breaking them.

If you would like to replace your stock iPod Touch Headphones Microphones with a better quality product we suggest the following high end headphones with microphones:

Apples headphone with microphone combo or Griffins TuneBuds Mobile

If you are looking for more information on the iPod Touch stock headphones/microphone you can find it here.

Apple stock iPod Touch headphones and microphone.