I want to record voice notes on my iPod 4G but I don't have the cash to shell out for the Belkin or the other expensive accessories. Will a regular microphone suffice to record?
You can use a regular microphone to record, but as far as I understand you still need a microphone adapter that will convert the audio out port to an audio in port. Belkin makes a decent one for around $30 (I have one that I can sell you for cheaper if you're interested...)