Topic: Cell phones for recording concerts?

[DaveH]

I know this subject has popped up here and there, but I am still having problems getting a good answer. I'm currently looking into the different smart phones and noticed the stereo 3.5mm inputs in such models as the Samsung Vibrant to name one. I've seen a few apps that allow for audio recording, but nothing that gives me the impression they are going to be decent quality. I was just wondering if the technology is that far off from becoming a reality.

On the other hand, I've read another post here about cell phone interference and wonder where that comes into this situation. The fact of the matter is I need to find a cell phone service better than the "pay as you go" deal I currently have and since I'm doing this, wouldn't it make more sense to find a smart phone that could also double as a recorder, rather than spend an additional $100-200 on a digital recorder?

[earmonger]

Are you sure there's a stereo input on the Vibrant? The only connector CNet lists is the headphone jack. The "voice recorder" is bound to be mono.

http://reviews.cnet.com/smartphones/samsung-vibrant-t-mobile/4507-6452_7-34129373.html

[sunjan]

I think earmonger pointed out the weak link. There is still no phone with a built-in stereo 3.5mm line/mic in jack, AND the possibility to record wav in at least 16 bit.

Sadly, the Iphone development seems to go in the wrong direction, with Apple pulling the support for stereo line in on Iphone 4:
http://blog.faberacoustical.com/2010/iphone/iphone-4-audio-and-frequency-response-limitations/

The one that comes closest is Iphone up to 3Gs, but even then you'd have to buy an external adapter:
http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=118890.msg1727066#msg1727066

For the money you'd spend on the adapter, you could easily pick up an Iriver on ebay for $80 or so, and have a much more competent 16 bit rig.