Zoom H4n , I Impressive with minor flaws

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

In looking for a portable handheld recorder for scratch tracks and samples, I weighed the benefits of a few of the handhelds available today and settled on the H4n. The other recorders on my short list were the Edirol R-09 and Sony PCM-D50, and also the H4. So far the H4n hasn't disappointed.

I settled on the Zoom H4n for a couple of reasons:

1) 1/4" and XLR inputs with phantom power - Very handy for throwing a mic on a kick and snare, and the H4n will record those plus the internal condensor simultaneously, which is perfect to get the rest of the drum kit for some quick loop scratch tracks.

2) More geeked out features than the others - They are not needed but still fun to have. The H4n is like the Leatherman of handheld pocket recorders with plenty of built in effects (which sound really good btw), built in 4 track recorder mode, tuners and metronome, playback speed control, MP3 encoder, acts as USB audio interface (both input and output), built in monitor speaker, and more. I also like the little things I'm still discovering, like when I put Ni-MH batteries in and then plugin in the adapter it recharges the batteries.

3) Build - I like the build quality compared to the H4 - Not as nice as the Sony but the thing does feel solid and substantial in your hand. The built in mics are a little exposed without a wire cage on the top like others have, it would probably not be a good thing to drop this unit and have the mics hit first.

4) Cost - This recorder was midrange even with it being brand new. It's less than the Sony and more than the H4 or R-09. I suspect the price will come down a bit when it's been out for a couple months down to where the R-09 is now. For what it has built in it's amazing to be it's as inexpensive as it is.

5) Sound quality - The H4n sounds clean. I believe turning on the built in compressor, or boosting a really weak input signal with a lot of input gain could cause hiss, but for the most part I don't notice any. Usually the noise floor is so low on what I've recorded that it is not audible. Some different mics and setups might have different results, time will tell.

6) Menu and button layout - I really like the way they set this unit up. Very easy to navigate and record with, and does what I want quickly with only a few caveats mentioned below.

7) SD card format - SD cards are cheap and readily available. I don't care so much for the memory sticks the Sony uses.

Now the downsides, maybe all these handheld recorders suffer from similar issues but I'm going to give my first impressions never having used one before and the H4n is the best I have to compare with:

1) Menu system - While easy to navigate, still feels like it could use refining through a firmware update. It feels like it wasn't finished when the product shipped. The fonts look a little like a 5 year old put them together, Zoom could have done better with the screen they put in the H4n. A lot of products like this are rushed to market to meet revenue goals, so hopefully they will get time to take another look at the firmware and make UI improvements. Also the firmware is trying to be a little too fancy with the menus. There is a little expanding box effect that happens when you open a menu, but it ends up just looking like screen artifacts when changing the menus. It would have been better to immediately jump to the menu, it would be faster and would look better.

2) File naming (another UI complaint) - I really wish the firmware gave you the ability to delete a character in a file name. The filename can be edited, but characters can only be added or changed, not deleted. If you use divide alot, the name gets larger and larger but cannot be made smaller. This is a bit annoying when combined with the divide implementation....

3) No divide while recording - there is no divide while recording that I could find. It seems like it would have been very easy to make one of the unused buttons act like a divide when recording. Instead you can set a "mark" (non editabled btw, after one is set it is permament in that wav file). The marks let you easily jump to that point and divide it later, but when it divides the file you end up with an 'A' or a 'B' tacked on to the filename. Now, imagine recording an entire gig or practice with only marks to use to delimit the songs, and then you have to divide them later with the naming scheme and lack of delete character function I mentioned above. What you end up getting is files named something like 'STE-001A.wav', STE-001B.wav', 'STE-001BBBBA.wav', and eventualy 'STE-001BBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBBA.wav' etc and there's not a lot you can do on the device to fix it since the best you can do is replace the extra characters with spaces so that you end up with a file named something like 'song blah .wav' (you can plug it in as a USB interface later and fix all the filenames in the folders, but not a lot you can do on site except stop and restart recordings versus using "marks").

4) Documentation - I'm not sure what Zoom was thinking here. The documentation looks like it was passed through a translation program without any proof reading before shipping. It is filled with sentences such as "On stereo mode can be made 19 different setting using. WAV & MP3. If you want to change, operate before recording". I get the general intent most of the time but it hurts. Luckily the unit is easy enough to use that you don't have to rely on the documentation too much.

As I see it, the complaints I have are mainly around details of the UI implementation and documentation and relatively minor. All around the unit is great and a lot of fun to use. The sound quality is top notch, and the capabilities of the device are astounding. I would have given it 5 stars if the few UI details had been better thought out and someone had read the documenation. For a great all around handheld recorder with excellent sound quality, lots of features, and a reasonable price, the Zoom unit is going to be very hard to beat.

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Zoom H4n : Step to Upgrade System Software

Monday, December 26, 2011

In my opinion, now the portable audio with a wide variety and the most cost happens in the market, one the best is Zoom H4n, but when I bought them late last year, it was discovered that there are limitations.

I have created some uneasiness was recorded by a microphone into the input 1 and 2 in the bottom of the machine, it can not split gain (acceleration signal) of each device. Gain-sharing is required, for example, that if someone speaks mic1 lighter mic2 can not use only gain the necessary mic1 up to the mic2 together.

When I purchased the Zoom H4n, the system software (firmware) version 1.5 and later, it is the Zoom out until the latest update to the v1.72 by a significant increase is that we can split gain of input1 and input2 by  separate and independent, and it is grace ... appreciate it.

I was talking about the update system software. Actually it is very easy. Let them see a good step.

1. To download Zoom H4n system software version 1.72 (latest as of now) from this link http://www.zoom.co.jp/downloads/h4n/software/?lang=en.

2. Then extract the zip file and get a file named SYSTEM.BIN.

3. Connecting a Zoom H4n to a computer with a USB device, select the Storage mode (if it not found the USB cable, remove the SD card from your H4n to connect directly to it at all).

4. Throw a SYSTEM.BIN file into the root directory of the SD card of the Zoom H4n ... cast into thinking it is not anywhere to put it into the folder.

5. Disconnect the USB cable of the Zoom H4n to a computer. Or bring the SD card that came with the computer directly to the SD card I put back into the H4n as it was.

6. Turn on the Zoom H4n, press [PLAY / PAUSE] Now hold on.

7. Use the rotate [DIAL] to the side of the H4n to move the cursor down to "OK".

8. Rotate the [DIAL] to begin the update.

This is done to update the system software version 1.72.

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Zoom H4N Portable 24-bit Sound Recorder

The H4 remains one of the most flexible of the current crop of portable 24-bit recorders, but Zoom have found plenty of room for improvement — and, more importantly, they’ve used it.

Zoom’s H4 digital stereo recorder remains hugely popular and, despite a few reservations, is one of my favourites. With ‘combi’ jack/XLR inputs, 48V phantom power, a coincident stereo pair of mics onboard, and masses of extra functionality (from four-track mixing to guitar effects and a USB audio interface) it’s much more versatile than most recorders, and the sound is good for the price. The H4’s preamps could be better, navigating the menu can be fiddly, the casing might be a bit more robust, and so on, but on balance it’s an excellent portable recorder.

N-Power
It should come as little surprise, then, that Zoom are continuing to sell the H4, while releasing an improved model that addresses many criticisms made of the earlier model. The H4N comes in at a slightly higher price but, like its sibling, boasts a feature set that makes other recorders look positively lightweight.

The H4N’s body has a thick, rubberised coating, which tackles concerns about handling noise pretty effectively — not to mention making the whole device feel more solid, better weighted, and altogether more ‘professional’. If you do find handling noise an issue, there’s a camera-tripod mounting socket on the rear, and a separate mic-stand adaptor for this. If noise is still a problem, there’s an optional remote control that plugs into the main unit via a mini-jack on the left-hand side panel.

Other striking visual changes include a slightly clearer screen (the one on the H4 was already pretty good) and a new control layout. Gone are the rather fiddly controls of the H4: you now have dedicated transport, input- and track-selection controls on the front panel; and the mystifying two wheel/button menu controls of the H4 have been replaced with a more intuitive system based around one menu button and a single scroll-and-click selection wheel. The track-selection buttons double up to provide shortcut keys for some of the more commonly used functions — folder and file selection, playback speed (yes, you can slow down tracks, without pitch change, to learn your guitar licks), and recording format. The recording level and playback volume settings are controlled by dedicated buttons on the right and left panels respectively.

At the top are more solid-feeling mics than appeared on the H4. These are, again, configured for coincident stereo recording, but can be rotated between 90 and 120 degrees. Combi sockets on the bottom panel allow the connection of external mics, or line/DI sources, and these sockets can deliver 24V or 48V phantom power. The preamps have been upgraded; they’re not high-spec by studio standards, but are perfectly adequate for this sort of device. You can also connect a stereo mic via a mini-jack socket (with plug-in power), to use instead of the onboard mics.

As well as the line/headphone output, there’s now a small speaker on the rear. This isn’t for serious monitoring, of course, but it’s a useful addition that brings the Zoom into line with more recent competition. It means you don’t always need to use headphones or external speakers to check things are operating as they should, or to locate a specific track or location within a track. Power comes in via the included adaptor, or a pair of AA batteries.

Like the H4, you can record in different file formats, with a range of MP3 and WAV options, from the cruddiest, media-efficient MP3 to 24-bit, 96kHz WAVs. Usefully, you can record broadcast WAVs, with markers for use when navigating or editing audio files, or burning CDs. All this is recorded to SD card (a 1GB card is included).

Four Play?
The H4’s four-track mixer enabled you to do basic overdubbing, and to apply effects to your recordings, but despite having two mics and two external inputs, it wasn’t capable of simultaneous four-track recording. With the H4N, you still get a multitrack mixer, but the onboard mics and external inputs can be used simultaneously. Because the onboard mics are configured for stereo, your four-track options can seem limited, but you could bypass them using the mini-jack input and a splitter cable for a pair of battery-powered mono mics. Even without this, there are plenty of possibilities. A number of applications are suggested in the detailed manual, and there is plenty more potential. Capturing jam sessions in stereo while, say, DI’ing keyboard and bass/guitar parts, is easy; or you could similarly take a feed off an FOH desk and DI a couple of instruments or set up a pair of ambient or audience mics to give you more options in post production. It also opens up the possibility of surround-sound recording, and it might prove useful for applications such as impulse-response capture.

Putting the H4N into four-track mode is as simple as clicking the menu button, scrolling to ‘Mode’ and clicking, then selecting ‘4CH’ and clicking again. A similar approach is used to set it back to stereo. There’s also an ‘MTR’ multi-tracker mode, which allows you to record mono or stereo sources to each of your four tracks, apply effects to and balance those tracks, and create a stereo bounce.

Bells & Whistles
There’s plenty more on offer too, from compressors and low-cut filters, to guitar amp and cabinet emulations (not the most authentic out there, but certainly passable for demo purposes), and distortion and delay-based effects.

As with so many of Zoom’s products, there’s literally too much to go into in detail in a review of this length, and I’d recommend visiting Zoom’s web site if you’re genuinely curious about the range and quality on offer. Suffice it to say that I’ve called these functions ‘bells & whistles’ as I suspect they won’t sway most people’s decision to purchase. Even if you don’t plan to use these sort of facilities for mixing, they do provide a convenient means for headphone-clad guitar and bass practising.

One really useful ‘whistle’ is the four-in, two-out 24-bit, 96kHz-capable audio interface capability, and you even get a copy of Steinberg’s Cubase LE4 DAW software for Mac and PC thrown in — which makes the package more than enough to get a would-be home recordist started. It wouldn’t be my first choice as a hardware interface (this is, after all, designed with location recording applications in mind) but it’s certainly very usable.

Sound Choice?
In terms of ergonomics and functionality, then, the H4 has undergone quite a transformation to acquire the extra ‘N’ (which stands for ‘next’ — probably my only real gripe!). But what of the sound quality? Well, that’s improved too. Tackling the handling-noise issues of the H4 and upgrading the external mic preamps makes quite a difference. Using the preamps with a pair of AKG C451s, I was able to capture a perfectly usable sound in the studio. The onboard mics are definitely an improvement, and comparable with those on other portable recorders in this price range. The two stereo-width settings also give a useful option when trying to achieve separation between two sources, or simply recording something like an acoustic guitar part in stereo, while leaving a ‘hole’ in the middle for a vocal.

Conclusion
I’m a big fan of the H4N, and found very little to dislike about it. While there are more ‘professional’ portable recorders out there, you’d be hard pushed to find something that’s better on sound quality alone. This product is also aimed at a very different market, where it compares very favourably with the competition. The H4N is justifiably a little pricier than its H-series predecessors, given the improvements that have been made, but although there’s a lot of ‘bonus’ functionality I can’t imagine using, you’re not paying a premium for it. If you want a good handheld recorder, this should definitely be on your shortlist; and if you want simultaneous four-track recording thrown in, it will be a very short list indeed!

Source: www.soundonsound.com

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The Zoom H4n Overview

The Zoom H4n Handy Recorder picks up where the H4 left off and adds additional features to an already popular audio recorder. Ideal for recording interviews, lectures, rehearsals, meetings, and more, this palm-sized unit packs the ability to record up to 4 channels of audio at greater than CD quality.

The H4n features onboard true X/Y stereo microphones to pick up clear, natural sound without phase shifting. The mics can be rotated to select a 90° or 120° recording pattern for terrific versatility. The digitally-controlled preamp, combined with the high-quality microphones, allows you to capture Linear PCM audio at rates up to 24-bit/96kHz. The recorder captures audio to SD or SDHC cards with capacities up to 32GB. A USB 2.0 port allows you to quickly transfer files to a Mac or PC, or use the H4n as a live audio interface.

For connecting your own microphones or instruments, the H4n features XLR/TRS combo input jacks with phantom capability. A 3.5mm line output is provided, and a reference speaker is built-in for quickly reviewing your recordings. The unit operates on a pair of standard AA batteries, and features a Stamina mode to provide up to 11 hours of continuous recording at 16-bit/44.1kHz. Other useful features of the H4n include variable playback speed, automatic and pre-record functions, a low-cut filter and limiter for improving the sound quality of recordings, time stamping, a metronome and tuner, and more. The backlit LCD screen and intuitive controls are easy to use, even for the recording novice. A collection of accessories are included so you can start recording right out of the box.

Integrated Speaker : The built-in speaker lets you quickly monitor recordings without having to bother with headphones.

Power Options : The unit can operate on a pair of standard AA batteries. The recorder's Stamina mode allows it to record continuously for up to 11 hours at CD-quality settings. The recorder can also be powered with the included wall adapter or by USB power.

Intuitive Interface : The backlit LCD screen and intuitive control buttons make it easy to record right away, even for beginners.

Audio Editing : Built-in editing features let you make basic adjustments, while the included Cubase LE software lets you perform more advanced editing functions on a computer. A mid-side stereo decoder allows you to use an external mid-side mic setup, while a mono mix function lets you convert a stereo recording down to mono, ideal for interviews.


Recording Features : The H4n features pre-record and auto record features so you never miss an important moment. A low-cut filter and limiter make sure you capture a clean recording every time.

Playback Features : Playback speed can be adjusted from 50 to 100%, making it easy to learn a song or language, or analyze recordings. You can also choose single or all repeat modes, and A-B repeat.

Time Stamping : The H4n recordings carry time stamp information, and can accept cues/markers to support the Broadcast Wave Format (BWF) used in professional applications.

Musician Tools : The integrated tuner and metronome are perfect tools for singers and musicians.

Remote Control : An optional remote control gives you full access to recording and playback controls, and is ideal for eliminating handling noise 1.

Mounting Options : The recorder can be mounted on a standard mic stand by using the included mic clip adapter, or mounted to a standard camera tripod thanks to the threaded mount.

Accessories Included : The H4n comes complete with a 2GB SD card, wind screen, mic clip adapter, AC adapter, USB cable, and protective case so you can start recording right away.

Source: www.bhphotovideo.com

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How to Synchronize ZOOM H4 Audio with External Track

Saturday, November 21, 2009

It 'important to realize that even if the oscillators sample may vary from one another, they tend to be extremely accurate in time, we are referring to themselves. This means that if you know what the clock speed of your recorder audio''autres sample clock of the camera, so a single correction factor will both return path for the synchronization.

A simple procedure is described below, using freeware programs, for calculating the correction factor necessary for your particular record. Necessary programs (all free):

1) AoA audio Extractor --- (not necessary if you can extract the audio track from a video recording in your NLE)
2) Audacity , a free audio editor
3) Switch , a free audio file type converter

Step 1: Set up your camera and audio recorder next to each other, and start both running

Step 2: Make a good audio 'clapperboard' point by tapping a pencil firmly onto a hard surface, as close to both camera and recorder mics as possible. This will cause a fast 'edge' to become the reference point, which will be useful later.

Step3: Let both devices run for at least 10 minutes. 20 minutes are better, but not essential.
At the end of the period, (timing not critical), make a second similar 'clapperboard' reference point. Allow a few more seconds recording, and then stop both devices.

Step 4: Download the video from the camera, and the audio from the recorder to your computer.

Step 5: Open the video file in 'AoA audio Extractor', and extract the audio from the video. Convert this audio file (if necessary) to a 48KHz 16 bit LPCM (wav) file, using the 'Switch' program linked to above. This file will be your reference audio file.

Step 6: Open the WAV file saved in the previous step in 'Audacity' - a free audio editor.

It is now necessary to save only the part of the file between the two 'clapperboard' references, which hopefully stand out clearly (if you hit the pencil hard enough in steps 2 and 3!).

This must be done accurately, to within 100th of a second, or better.

Click and drag the file to highlight the beginning section, including the first 'clapperboard' waveform. Use the 'fit selection to window' tool (immediately to the right of the 'zoom' tools) to magnify. Delete as much as possible before the 'clapper' reference. Repeat the operation until you can clearly identify the first distinct waveform of the 'clapper' reference waveform. Click, hold and place the cursor directly over the first full (clipped) waveform, where it crosses the centre line. Delete every thing to the left of that point, by clicking and dragging to highlight, and then deleting with the scissors tool.

Step 7: Repeat the above procedure for the end part of the waveform, again using the start of the second 'clapper' waveform as your reference cutting point. In this case, cut everything to the right of your selected reference point (not the left, as in the first case.)

Step 8: It is necessary to record the exact length of this new cropped waveform. This information is listed at the bottom of the window, but in a rather inappropriate format. Locate the toolbar
at the top of the window, click 'Edit'-'select all' and then 'Effects'-'change tempo' . Note the length of the file in seconds in the right hand box (the left hand box is greyed out).

Record this figure. It is the reference file length

Step 9: It is necessary to convert the file recorded on the audio recorder into an identical format to the camera audio track, namely 48 KHz 16 bit PCM. If the track is not already in this format, open it in Switch, a free file transfer program, and select the output encoding as 48 KHz 16 bit, mono or stereo to fit your audio file. This program will then convert whatever format your input file is (MP3, WMA, 44.1 KHz PCM, etc) into the required 48 KHz, 16 bit format required.

Step 10: Repeat the procedures in steps 6 and 7 for this new file. Edit the 'clapper' points with as much accuracy as before, but notice that the 'clapper' waveform will appear different from the first, although hopefully with as clearly defined first ' zero crossing' point.

Step 11: Repeat the procedure in step 8, and you will notice that the overall file length is different.
Overwrite the original file length into the right hand box, and take careful note of the resulting figure in the percent change box. Make sure you record whether it is a plus or minus value - it could be either! This is the most important figure, because it represents the percentage variation between the two units.

Once you have obtained this value, simply apply it to all files recorded with the same recorder and this camera. Providing you can align the start of the file with a single 'clapperboard' mark, there is no need to repeat the rest. Simply change the length of the external audio file by the correct percentage value, to allow the two audio tracks to remain synchronised.

It may seem a long winded process, but it only needs to be done once, and could then save quite a lot of time, against the option of trying to align tracks manually in your NLE, in small sections.

You may of course wish to use an alternative audio editor, and the details of this precedure may then be slightly different, but the principle remains the same.

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Zoom H4 Features

Friday, November 13, 2009

Unlike other flash-based recorders, the Zoom H4 features both a track or two to four-track recorder. Four track mode allows simultaneous playback of four tracks and recording of two songs. All four tracks are recorded, you can mix and bounce to mono or stereo, then add more tracks. You can add effects such as the emulation of guitar amps, chorus, compression or delay. Other unique features are a metronome and guitar tuner. In stereo mode, the Zoom H4 can record 16-bit or 24-bit WAV files at 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz or 96 kHz. A full range of MP3 bit rates are also available. Four modes of road, the unit records 16-bit/44.1 kHz.

Built in H4 are two studio-quality electret condenser cardioid microphones in X / Y pattern for true stereo recording. Bar-top caps protect damage to the microphone and foam windscreen is supplied for external use. Documentation H4 Secure Digital (SD). A 128 MB SD card is included. With a 2GB card, the H4 provides up to 380 minutes of recording in 16-bit mode (CD quality), and 34 hours in MP3 stereo mode.

This versatile machine can operate as a USB audio interface, which allows you to record instruments and vocals to your computer. The H4 comes with Steinberg Cubase LE is a multitrack recording software that works with Windows and Mac So for $ 299, you get a workstation and a digital audio tape recorder two-track/four-track. Audio must be 16-bit, 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz mode USB interface. Zoom offers a USB cable and a Handy USB / Cubase LE start guide. The device uses two AA batteries or power adapter included. Battery-powered continuous recording time is four hours, shorter, with phantom power switched on. The dimensions are 2.75 centimeters x 5.22 centimeters x 1.38 cm.

In terms of H4 is a backlit 128 x 64 pixel LCD screen, buttons sampling rates or indicators, a stereo with four modes LED track, record button and a slider button to select menu, play / pause, or modify the file. You press the record button once to set the levels and press the button again for registration. Arranged along the front left is a stereo jack for output as a line 1/8-inch, 1/8-inch stereo headphone jack, wheel, headphone volume, on / off switch and a mini-USB port. On the right side is a jog wheel and switches gain (L / M / H) inputs for external and internal microphone. All connectors and switches are clearly identified.

You can use the arrow keys and jog wheel to navigate through the numerous options and settings that H4 bid. You need to read the manual and practice of navigation, but eventually you can access all the features. Fortunately, the manual is clearly written. It also provides a simple guide registration and a list of corrections which describes dozens of patches of special effects included.

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How to record live presentations by Zoom H4

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

The recording of a presentation can be difficult. Not only will you have the challenge of capturing the audience's questions, it is also generally have a PowerPoint presentation that everyone is watching, and the hum of a projector and a microphone that wants to enter a room. Although you can use a variety of digital recorders, digital recorders Olympus creaks a bit 'economic, like bacon frying in the worst case. (To hear a track record of a higher end Olympus digital recorder, listen to this.)

I experimented with other recorders like the Zoom H2 or Edirol or Marantz. I am sure that every time you start spending $ 200 on a tape recorder, the increase in sound quality.

The costs for my Zoom H4
I like the Zoom H4, not only for the sound quality, it also doubles as an audio interface for your computer. In other words, you can use the Zoom H4, a USB microphone to record Camtasia or Captivate tutorials - and the sound quality sounds great. And if you want to record interviews in person, zoom microphone to record the sound is better than many external XLR microphone (that plugs into it). But it is also possible to use an external microphone to put in front of someone. This may be preferable at times. Since the zoom microphones are so sensitive, they will get every movement of his hand on the device.

My method for recording podcasts with Zoom H4
In this post, I share the method I used to record my last blog and podcasting the presentation of a local chapter of the STC. Moreover, since PodCamp SLC salt, I want my document techniques.You audio recording might want to spend a few days to familiarize themselves with the Zoom H4. Do not worry one of the four skills of song.

Tip: I recommend to buy audio equipment from the professionals. They have a lot of personalized cards and peripherals, which may be necessary, and vendors have experience with audio, if you have questions about what to buy.

Define and record audio
1. Insert the SD Memory Card 2GB Zoom.
2. Adjust the zoom of a recording in WAV format.
3. Activate the phantom power zoom to 48 volts.
4. Adjust the zoom to the mic input, rather than omnidirectional microphones.
5. Connect the adapter Phantom zoom.
6. Connect the adapter omni-directional lapel microphone phantom.
7. Drag the Zoom in custom-sewn belt clip large and attach to your belt. Tie-clip microphone a few inches below the chin of the presenter.
8. Make a big sign that says "Please repeat the questions from the audience."
9. Each time the audience asks a question, make the sign you made in step 8.

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Zoom H4 Handy Camcorder Secret Weapon

Sunday, October 25, 2009

I have not heard much about utilities The H4 for video, and it what I intend to explore. With the price of mini-DV camcorders and even HD consumer continues to fall, the only thing that separates (most) of their pro and prosumer cameras a lack of microphone inputs and the lack of a headphone output to monitor the audio.

One of the uses failed to H4 the Neutrik combined XLR and Inputs (with phantom power), make it an ideal front end to interface with cameras mics pro consumers. We are dedicated interfaces that do this, but the H4 The added value of being a digital recorder, so only are you able to use professional microphones and phantom power to them also an audio back-ups, as professionals. An added bonus can use the H4's headphone jack to monitor your sound.

I used this set up to run some test shots for a documentary I was shooting. I made a small diaphragm condenser in an H4 channel XLR input and a crown PZM entry of others. I used the condenser on a boom for audio primary subject, then place the PZM near the subject, but the frame to get the same sound with a little atmosphere of the room. In practice can run two small capacitors, or a lavalier and a microphone on an arm, or a lavalier and PZM, etc. The only restriction that both microphones have to run on phantom power (or not, you can spend the phantom power on or off the menu, but the problem is with both inputs Neutrik).

I ran the 1/8 "stereo line out from the H4 into the microphone in my camera (Panasonic PV-GS300). I was only able to monitor the sound after I performed a test and played again, but what I have heard in playback been fairly consistent with what I heard in the headphones while recording H4. Another added bonus I now have a way to back up audio recording to memory card H4. I shoot with a crew very small, so this feature cam really at hand, especially during changes of the tape. Even if you're saying your subjects to hang while you change tape can let the H4 run and catch any type of audio is not could be repeated after the change of the tape. If they say something really deep (that is) and simply not have the same power when they are asked to repeat it on camera, audio H4 still there, So, you've got something.

The H4 can Pro microphones let you use your camcorder for consumers, they give you the possibility to monitor the audio and you give a backup of your audio editing. This a bargain!

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Zoom h4 awesome recorder, if you're willing to learn the in's and out's.

Saturday, October 24, 2009

I went with the Zoom H4 after using Edirol one a couple of times. I do not see a big difference between the quality sufficient to justify the registration of both a charge of $100 more.

I use this recorder to record the evidence for both a wind ensemble and a jazz quartet playing, and for a small package, even using the internal microphone, the quality registration excellent. I never had a problem with overloading the internal microphone, even when the Big Band jump on a chorus message. Also picks ups and downs very well.

Personally I see no problem with the interface. Edirol seems that the shiny buttons and pleasant, but his task to record the sound, not to look like a car of the future. One small complaint the shell looks pretty fragile. Sure to take care of it, if a college student living in dorms can do it, so can you.

Battery life is not bad, I recording for about 4.5 hours with two regular Energizer batteries. I still recommend getting a set of rechargeable batteries, if you intend to use this with any frequency. It can use the AC power adapter that packaged with it, but not What exactly convenient.

This next step really important to consider when purchasing this product. If you are not willing to learn to use the recorder, which involves reading the manual and do some trial and error to understand everything there, Then do not waste your time and money. It also involves learning to use some editing software that comes with the recorder present. If you do not learn to use it, you're really losing the potential of this fine product. For a device simple, eliminate the extra money for the Edirol.

Overall, produced very large. I used to make some recordings very useful for my ensemble, and has worked wonders so far.

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Zoom H4 portable digital stereo recorder

Friday, October 23, 2009

Got the Zoom H4 recently and I really like. Easy to use, on the basis of stereo recording. Just read the instructions once. I wanted something that would allow me to record myself playing music in stereo high quality (. WAV or MP3), and transfer the resulting audio file to my computer. But then, without being overly complicated.

OK, The buttons are multi-function, but are easy to understand, and you can Always refer to the printed manual (which came with it), if you forget something. No, do not come with its own built-in speakers, but I like to use a headset or speakers of my computer better anyway. ( Can link a set of portable stereo speakers - like the kind that make for MP3 players - if you really want.)

The H4 far multi-track recording, and a host of other sophisticated things, but this complicated than I need. I wanted above all good, accurate recording of sound, and I got that, so I'm happy.

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Zoom H4 Handy Digital Recorder

Thursday, October 22, 2009

The Zoom H4 Handy Digital Recorder fits in your palm and is ideal for recording live musical performances, interviews, podcasts, meetings, classes and seminars. The H4 allows you to record 24-bit/96 kHz digital audio as well as in MP3 format with bitrates up to 320kbps.

The H4 features two studio-quality electret condenser microphones configured in an X/Y pattern for true stereo recording. It also includes 2 combination XLR-1/4-inch input jacks with phantom power for use with any external microphones of your choice. And the H4 is loaded with onboard studio effects such as compression, limiting and mic modeling. An 1/8-inch headphone jack is also provided for monitoring.

The H4 records on to Secure Digital (SD) media, a 128MB SD card is included with the unit. With a 2GB SD memory card, the H4 provides up to 380 minutes of recording in 16-bit mode (CD Quality), and 34 hours in MP3 stereo mode. And to move your recordings to a PC or Mac, the H4 includes a USB mass-storage interface.

The H4 provides four hours of continuous recording operation from 2 AA batteries. A back-lit, 128x64 pixel LCD provides the visual interface. An AC adapter, USB cable, windshield cover and tripod adapter are also included.

It's also a 4-Track Recorder!

Unlike other field recorders, the H4 also has a 4-track recording mode for easy-to-use mobile multi-track recording. The H4 will also render 4-track audio with CD quality, 16-bit/44.1 kHz resolution.

Songwriters and musicians can use the combination XLR-1/4-inch high-impedance phone inputs for vocals, guitars, bass or keyboards. Also onboard are Zoom's most incredible guitar and bass amplifier modeling effects. These effects accurately reproduce the sounds of the most famous guitar amps ever made.

And by-the-way, it's also an Audio Interface

Recording directly to your computer has never been easier than with the Zoom H4 Handy Recorder. The H4 is the only portable digital recorder that also serves as your USB audio interface, allowing direct recording of instruments and vocals to your computer. And, if you don't already have a DAW, that's okay because every H4 comes bundled with Cubase LE, the perfect 48-Track Digital Audio Workstation for easy editing, mixing and mastering of your recordings on either Windows or Mac.

Together, these features make the Zoom H4 Handy Digital Recorder the most versatile portable recording device ever offered.

Mobile Field Recording
Fits in the palm of your hand
Ideal for infinite variety of mobile recording applications
Records 24-bit/96 kHz digital audio as well as MP3 format with bitrates up to 320kbps
Two studio quality X/Y pattern condenser microphones for true stereo recording
Two combination XLR-1/4-inch input jacks with phantom power
Onboard studio effects compression, limiting and mic modeling
1/8-inch headphone jack provided for monitoring
128MB Secure Digital (SD) card included.
Using a 2GB SD memory card provides 380 minutes of recording with CD Quality sound
Up to 34 hours recording in MP3 stereo mode
USB mass-storage interface
Four hours of continuous recording operation from 2 AA batteries
Back-lit, 128'64 pixel LCD provides the visual interface
AC adapter, windshield cover, USB Cable and tripod adapter included

4-Track Recording
4-track audio in CD quality 16-bit PCM, 44.1 kHz sampling
Combination high-impedance phone inputs for vocals, guitars, bass or keyboards.
Built in guitar amp modeling equivalent to the Zoom G2

Audio Interface
Records directly to your computer as a USB audio interface
Bundled with Cubase LE, 48-Track Digital Audio Workstation software
The H2 and H4 are two of the most exciting products in the industry. Both of these state of the art recorders offer features that make them stand out. Here are some of the distinct advantages the H2 and H4 have over other field recorders. H4 Advantages XLR-1/4 Combo Inputs with Phantom Power USB Audio Interface 4-Track Recorder Multi-Effects including Guitar/Mic Modeling Cubase IncludedXLR-1/4 Combo Inputs with Phantom PowerThe H4 has 2 onboard Mic Preamps with XLR inputs and Phantom Power. Any microphone from hand-held dynamic mics to high-end studio condensers can be plugged right in to the H4 with no adapters necessary. The H4 1/4 inputs allow the H4 to record directly from your guitar, bass or any line level source.

USB Audio InterfaceThe H4 can function as a 2 track USB Audio Interface. You can record directly into any computer simply by plugging in the H4. This sets the H4 apart from other portable recorders by eliminating the need for a separate piece of gear to record in real time with your computer. You can even power the H4 off of the USB port for recording with a laptop.

4-Track Recorder
Not just a Stereo Field Recorder, the H4 has a 4 track mode that allows it to transform into a portable multi-track studio. Lay down a couple of rhythm tracks, and then add a lead and a vocal. Mix it all down right on board and you can instantly transfer a finished recording right to your computer via USB.

Multi-Effects including Guitar/Mic Modeling
The H4 has a built in Multi effects processor equivalent to the Zoom G2. This processor includes guitar and bass effects, amp and mic modeling as well as Noise Reduction. With 50 easy to use presets and room for more, you can create and save your own sounds for recording. Cubase Included
Every H4 comes bundled with Cubase LE software from Steinberg. With Cubase, you can edit, record, mix and convert your recordings using your computer. Combining the power of computer recording with the portability and ease of use of a field recorder, this bundle gives you the most comprehensive recording experience available.

The Zoom H4 - he Most Versatile Recorder Ever

H2 Advantages
4 Mics for 360 degree Surround Recording Very Affordable Ease of Use Time Stamp and Mark Function Included Accessories

4 Mics for 360 degree Surround Recording
The Zoom H2 has 4 built in microphones, allowing it to pick up sound in stereo from the front and rear of the recorder. This allows the Zoom H2 to accurately capture and reproduce the most lifelike and realistic recordings imaginable. Because the H2 can record sound from all around, it can capture sounds from sources that would escape most other field recorders.

Very Affordable
With a List Price of $334.99 the Zoom H2 is much more affordable than comparable field recorders. With features and performance typical of recorders costing twice as much, the Zoom H2 allows a whole new group of users make professional sounding recordings without investing in a whole studio worth of gear.

Ease of Use
With its intuitive User Interface and easy to read LCD screen, the H2 makes recording simple. Setting levels, recording and playback can all be achieved without accessing menus, making operation so easy it can be done without even looking. And with features like Auto Start, Auto Gain and Pre-Record, the H2 makes it easy for beginners to get great recordings every time. Time Stamp and Mark Function
>The H2 includes a Time stamp function that automatically saves date and time information with every file recorded. This makes organizing and archiving your files a snap. You can also use the H2 Track Mark function to set mark points while recording. Marked files are saved in Broadcast WAV Format (BWF) making the H2 a powerful tool for Electronic News Gathering (ENG).Included Accessories
The Zoom H2 includes a long list of standard accessories that give you everything you need to start recording right away. The H2 includes a 512MB SD card for up to 17 hours of recording time right out of the box. Also included are the windscreen, desktop stand and mic clip adapter. The H2 comes with a stereo cable for input or output, a USB cable and AC adapter. Zoom has even thrown in Earbuds for instant playback of your recordings.

Source : http://www.audiolines.com/Studio-Recording/Recording-Duplication-Playback/Portable-Recorders/Zoom-H4-handy-Recorder

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Zoom H4 really is a "Handy Little Recorder"

Although I have not had time to explore the aspect of this 4-track recorder (a bit misleading since in reality only record two tracks at a time, but I understand Can add files in a project to unite line tool in pi a file). My main purpose of this recorder was to use "field" as a stereo tape recorder for recording in the studio and given my students during lessons. This little gem works great. Can not find anything inexpensive that works equally well. I much prefer the technology of an SD memory card, which may have deleted files and reused, rather than a diskette that can be used only once. My only complaint with aging eyes The project must not have added the thick black frame around the display screen. Screen space have more meaning broader and more easy to read text. Other reviewers have complained about the "cheap" plastic feeling, but I feel, if managed properly this small recorder and robust. If your reality in professional recording studio and mixing probably need to go in the $2000 price range and look at Roland or Korg products (big and fat) in each case. I was able to purchace this through its retail price of $495 ($248).

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Good for some people, just not me.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Field general recording for that nice, but not comparable to the most M-Audio MicroTrack 24/96, at least not to me. The Zoom H4 has a lot of features that I did not try. I tried both the zoom and M-Audio sound and record the same M-Audio liked the best. Sound recordings Zoom was good, but there seemed to be a lack of high and the stereo field was no longer large compared to the M-Audio.

My tests were "out of the box", as the two units sound The M-Audio has won. That can not be the case for others, there may be other benefits for the zoom I need for my recordings. Zoom a very capable recorder, and can serve well.

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I don't know how I survived without it

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

I rate this excellent product. I held out for 3 months, after reading that the user interface been difficult to learn, remember some crash-and-burn failures with other products. After 3-4 hours with the tutorial (essential!), I find that the user interface very intuitive, the quality sound excellent, and the form factor perfect to connect my Stratocaster and disturbance to my rhythm section. Add in there the quality stereo recording of live performances, and I do not know how I lived without it.

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Field recording with the Zoom H4

Monday, October 19, 2009

After reading many reviews on this nifty little machine, I decided to make an attempt to direct the production of sound, as the main recorder box. Compatible audio suite we decided to record 48 kHz / 24 bit. I know that the car specifically designed for film / TV recording field, but has done its job very well.

Advantages at first sight:
# 1: It does not weigh 8 ½ Kg (about 18.7 lbs.) what a Nagra IV used to.
# 2: No reels, no heavy batteries, no shoulder harness.
# 3: The recording quality and the S/N ratio are far above that of an open-reel machine and equal any DAT or HD-recording system.

So far so good. Since the microphone/gain controls on the H-4 are not accessible during recording, I decided to feed the audio (boom & radio-mikes) through a SHURE FP-33 field mixer and connecting it via two XLR cables to the H-4. Besides, one can NOT hold it in the hand and record through the built-in mikes due to severe noise from handling the machine.

I first had to calibrate the H-4 with FP-33 to see where my levels were, I started the 1-2 IN switch is at "L" and then calibrated the tone of 1 kHz at-24dB on the H-4. Why are low limiter mixer SHURE works OK for analog, but clearly exceeded the limit of 0 dB of any digital recorder causing distortion / clipping.
The dialogue came sharp and clear, but I still had to look at the peaks as the limiter H-4 does not capture accordingly. I have not yet understood whether the built-in limiter works only for the internal microphone (MIC) or works well the contribution (in 1-2).

I live and work in Costa Rica, so sometimes the "Latin Way" interferes with the normal production logistics me been used in Germany and the United States.
Production forgotten to buy batteries, gave me a strip of regular Panasonic Blu-Ones. WARNING! A set of two lasted about 10 minutes, enough for a scene, without risking the recorder to go "off-line" in the midst of a recovery. We just made the morning before (outside shooting), so I have some decent AA alkaline batteries.

Cons:
1. The more data you have on the SD-card, the longer the machine takes to fire up / load / initiate. I use an 8 GB Transcend card, which lasted me - in a "normal" 16-hour working day - for four (4) whole days and still had about 1.5 Gigs left over.
2. The XLR inputs do not have the usual safety latch. So, if you are moving around, be sure that your cables are always plugged up to the hilt. And, re-check them before you start recording again.
3. The readability of the display is poor in daylight, and so is the status-light of the "Record" button. Is it on? Is it recording? One has to monitor the output of the H-4 directly so one knows at least if the machine is "off".
4. I upgraded the firmware immediately after getting the H-4 to Ver. 2.20. Still it takes up to an hour and a half to download, via USB, about 1.5 Gigs of audio (Vista Ultimate / 2 Gigs of RAM / fast 500 GB HD).
5. The Zoom H-4 has a twisted learning curve. It takes some time to get used to the two kinds/options of menus. But that has been discussed at length in other reviews... (see those).

Overall I am surprised by the quality excellent recorded sound. I also made a couple of recordings of a mariachi group, using the built-in microphones, and at home I was amazed by the freshness and the resolution stereo field.

So,, leave your bulky machines at home, and begin using the H-4 for recording field. ... and saves about U.S. $750 compared to other SD-digital recorders.Do not forget the clapper, why otherwise you are going to be in trouble trying to synchronize audio with video post-production.

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Great, cost-effective, Handy digital recorder

Sunday, October 18, 2009

I was very impressed with the H4 recorder to date. Contrary to what some reviewers have said, I found VERY user-friendly interface and very intuitive, once I started using it. I looked at the book for ~ 1 minute before use, and it was immediately up and running, without further assistance.

Before purchasing the H4, I read a series of reviews to compare this product to its competitors, including the Edirol R-09. I was worried because such judgments made sound like the interface for the H4 been kludgy and / or difficult to manage. Eventually, I decided to buy the H4 anyway, why, A) all the reviews said the quality sound was great (which much more important IMHO), and b) been at least $ 100 cheaper than the competition. I thought, if the quality sound was good, I could understand the interface. Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised by both.

I find the H4 easy to use, and the quality sound excellent for the price. The only thing I want control fine-tuning of the level of microphone input. The simple L / M / H switch ok, to make setup fast and great, but I wonder what it would be like to be able to have greater control over these levels mic. (On the other hand, a) I love the cost of the H4 compared to competitors, and b) if I did have more control, you probably spend more time fiddling with levels, and less time actually recording ...)

If you are looking for a great, portable, easy to use, low cost and the digital recorder, I would recommend the H4. (Oh, and do not forget, this is also with Cubase.) If you want to see one of my examples of using the H4, I have a video that was recorded using the H4. I recorded the video using a camera Logitech PC, and the sound on H4, and then combined using Windows Movie Maker.

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See Zoom H4 Handy Recorder

Saturday, October 17, 2009

After a long search I decided on the H4 on the basis of price, features, and reviews. I sing barbershop harmony and wanted a recorder quality for recording sessions and performances. I bought an 8 GB card to extend the recording time. I used the H4 for a month and now I feel that was an excellent buy.

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Zoom 4 great Sound Quality, And That's Just The Beginning

I bought this product as an upgrade to my archaic portable recorder, and I must admit that after three weeks of using the Zoom H4 I was not disappointed. Live entertainment, spontaneous jam sessions, or just scratch tracks playing on an acoustic guitar all the great sound, and I have not even begun to play with the 4-track characteristics. Really captures the sound room well, and this can be fully used with good settings.

If I have no complaint at all, of colic the same as the others grow, the interface could be slightly more intuitive, and could have been designed so that it would be easy to pop the memory card, where you don 't run the risk of potential damage. Still, with the quantity things that this product able to do, and the price currently on sale, can not be beat.

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H4 great features and quality,few that could improvement

Friday, October 16, 2009

First of all this product exceptional complexity for its price, there are many better recorders l out, but the ratio quality-price on this product excellent.I would like to address some of his positive traits. It 's very easy to use, the construction of mics sound pretty good, the battery life very good for 2 AA, audio recordings in general very good for a unit at this price.

I like that do not have a built in battery or a battery of property so you can quickly and inexpensively be replaced on the go. I would like an indicator of remaining battery for replace the batteries before you start recording a long that can take to kill them.

Microphones sound decent even though it seems that the lack of low end and are a bit crunchy high end of what a small hard. It works well in many applications, but to record things as quiet environment in which the gain has to be lifted up, somewhat hissing noise in the recording. I also noticed that recordings are very slightly accelerated when you play again, the voices sound acute than they were and I assume this would be a huge problem for music since the change the notes you're playing and make it out of tune.

The firmware works well and does not crash on my experience, even if the record button has a delay when starting and stopping the recording. Furthermore, the navigation through functions could be better designed, but not horrible. One thing that does not make me nuts that every time you turn the unit recording back to the default. I always record to 96k/24bit and I put it back in that setting before each use.

The overall design looks and feels cheap, plastic seems easy to break (but at this price I'm fine with that), but the microphones seem firmly mounted in place and are protected by a sturdy metal bar in order to not smack them on something or the stock market crunch. it feels nice in hand and very light. Also the buttons seem cheap, but I know someone who has had one for several years and still work well. Just be nice and you should be fine.

Another thing to note that the microphones are very sensitive to wind noise. Always use the windshield outside, though in an average wind will still roar. This predictable even if it have a problem that afflicts even the microphones expensive. Just be sure to use the screen and maybe even bring a lightweight fuzzy socks or something like that, as additional protection from the wind.

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Two time's a charm!

Thursday, October 15, 2009

This is my 2nd Zoom portable studio; have had the PS-04 for several years now but it was very limited due to the small memory card (128mb) and no USB cable connectivity, although it has a nice built in drum machine with many, many pre-programmed styles. It was more for capturing creative riffs or ideas not really doing serious recording.

However, the H4 is much better. My only complaint is the small LCD screen and with these aging eyes I have to wear glasses to read the display, otherwise a sweet device. Still exploring all it does and have not yet loaded the Cubase LE software as I use ProTools LE already. What I most like is the ability to connect to a laptop and use it as a portable studio to record gigs or demo CDs for friends.

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