Re: [microsound] [ot] portable computers [WAS: minidisc recorders]

[derek holzer <derek@xxxxxxx>]

Hi Eric,

Eric b wrote:
> On a somewhat related note anyone have any experience
> running Linux on their ipod for th purpose of field
> recordings?

So happy to hear that someone else has an interest in this kind of 
hacking. I'm doing some work with IPAQs and Linux at STEIM next March, 
trying to build an algorithmic field recording device. But the whole 
package gets pretty bulky: IPAQ, extra battery/CF card jacket, external 
2496 preamp/AD converter, plus a Bluetooth GPS for tagging sounds with 
location information. You can read about it here:

http://www.umatic.nl/projects_pandev.html

In the end, I'm not sure I'd recommend an IPAQ as a rugged field 
solution. The interface is a bit too wierd, with the stylus and all, and 
battery life is a serious issue. For the kind of cash it takes buy an 
IPAQ and trick it out with CF soundcard and external preamp/AD unit, you 
could almost certainly buy a dedicated HD recorder. But you wouldn't be 
able to program the HD recorder to do fancy tricks, and that's where it 
gets wild!

So I'd be *very* interested to know if Ipod + Linux could be used for 
something similar. I'll also be checking out lunchbox-sized computers 
running on mini-ITX motherboards for a more cost-efficient way of 
handling the idea, but almost everybody and their dog [within a certain 
socioeconomic bracket, anyway] seem to have an Ipod.

My whole point is that, once you have access to OS running all these 
portable devices, you have a small, portable computer that is probably 
faster than your average desktop of five years ago! Good for much more 
than playing MP3s or storing phone numbers. Keep me up to date on it.

best,
Derek

--
derek holzer ::: http://www.umatic.nl
---Oblique Strategy # 36:
"Consult other sources
-promising
-unpromising"

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