If you just changed the Curve for a Classic because of the hotspot functionality you could have upgraded to OS 7.1 which introduced the hotspot functionality. I don't know if the Curve allowed OS 7.1, but the Bold 9900 could be upgraded to 7.1 and the hotspot is fantastic.
Anyhow, now that you have a Classic, it is true that voice notes can only be used through notes or tasks (i.e. the Remember app). I don't like this either. I am using a shorter way, though:
- Hold the D key for 2 seconds (this creates a new note)
- Tap on the microphone icon
- Tap on Record
- Speak
- Tap on Stop