The New York Times technology section today featured an article, “Some Hot Recorders for Those Cool Podcasts.” Reporter Larry Magid discusses how podcasting has created a need to expand the market for high-end portable audio gear. Today, top of the line recorders now use the same flash memory used in digital cameras and can hold up to 130 hours of compressed monaural audio. The catch? The high-end devices can cost up to $500.

We think it’s great these devices are being promoted, however for those not wishing to spend hundreds of dollars Magid did mention a couple of less expensive digital flash recorders such as the iRiver T30 for $40. There is always the option of simply using a computer microphone and audio-editing software!

We look forward to seeing future developments in portable audio gear, but ultimately what is important for a podcast is not how it is made, but who listens to it. What is the point of spending $500 to produce an immaculately sounding podcast, if no one hears it? As always, we encourage all podcasters to make sure their podcasts are registered with us and to do so if they aren’t. That way even if someone doesn’t know they are looking for your unique insight on Aardvark social dynamics, they will find it for the important research they are doing on termite eaters.