Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder

  • Price: $299.00
  • B&H # ZOH4N
  • Mfr# ZH4N

Product Highlights

  • True X/Y Stereo Mics
  • Selectable Recording Patterns
  • Records up to 24-bit/96kHz
  • Records to SD/SDHC
  • XLR/TRS Combo Inputs
  • Built-In Speaker
  • USB 2.0 Connectivity
  • Backlit LCD Display
  • Uses AA Batteries
  • Accessories Included

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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.

Compact Form Factor
The small size of the H4n makes it ideal for use in mobile situations. The rubberized chassis provides a high level of durability and helps to minimize handling noise
4-Channel Recording
The H4n can record up to 4 channels of audio. It also has a 4-track MTR mode that provides simultaneous 4-track playback and 2-track recording for overdubbing and creating songs
True X/Y Stereo Mics
The onboard mics are arranged in true X/Y fashion to produce natural stereo recordings with no phasing issues
Selectable Recording Patterns
The built-in mics can be rotated to select a recording pattern of 90° or 120° for versatility
High-Quality Preamp
The digitally-controlled preamp captures clear, precise audio at rates up to 24-bit/96kHz
SD/SDHC Storage
The H4n records to readily-available SD or SDHC flash memory cards at capacities up to 32GB. This type of media features no moving parts, and is an incredibly stable platform, ensuring the safety of your data
Connectivity
The H4n features professional-quality XLR/TRS inputs with phantom power for connecting instruments or microphones. An additional 3.5mm mic input is also provided. Output is via a 3.5mm headphone/line out jack. A USB 2.0 port lets you transfer files to a computer, or use the unit as a live audio interface
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
Type Hand-held multi-track stereo SD card recorder
Recording/Reading Methods SD/SDHC card (up to 32GB, 2GB included)
USB connection to PC/Mac
Recording Bit Rate WAV: 16 and 24-bit
MP3: 48 to 320kbps
Sampling Frequency WAV: 44.1/48/96kHz
MP3 - 44.1/48kHz
Number of Channels 2 or 4, depending on mode
Recording Time All times are for a 1GB memory card
Stereo Mode:
MP3: 17 hours 21 mins (128kbps), 6 hours 56 mins (320kbps)
WAV: 1 hour 34 mins (16-bit/44.1kHz), 1 hour 26 mins (16-bit/48kHz), 28 mins (24-bit/96kHz)
4-Channel Mode:
WAV: 47 mins (16-bit/44.1kHz), 28 mins (24-bit/48kHz)
MTR Mode:
WAV: 3 hours 8 mins (16-bit/44.1kHz)
AD/DA Conversion 24-bit, 128x oversampling
Signal Processing 32-bit
Phantom Power 48V, 24V, off
Inputs 2 x XLR/TRS combo inputs (balanced, unbalanced)
1 x 3.5mm mic input
2 x Built-in condenser microphones
1 x USB 2.0 port
Output 1 x 3.5mm mini stereo headphone/line out jack
1 x USB 2.0 port (same as input)
Power 2 x AA or LR6 batteries
AC wall power
USB bus power
Battery Life Approx 6 hours (normal) or 11 hours (stamina mode)
Display 128 x 64 pixel 1.9" backlit LCD
Dimensions (WxDxH) 2.75 x 6.1 x 1.4" (70 x 156 x 35mm)
Weight 9.9 oz (280g) (without batteries)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder
 
4.6

(based on 549 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (353)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (169)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (16)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (8)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (3)

98%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Excellent sound (472)
  • Easy to use (430)
  • Versatile (408)
  • Low distortion (266)
  • Good power output (240)

Cons

  • Unnecessary functions (33)
  • Difficult to use (26)
  • Poor quality construction (18)
  • Poor sound quality (6)
  • Short battery life (6)

Best Uses

  • Professional recording (330)
  • Outdoor events / games (283)
  • Amateur recording (259)
  • Performances (254)
  • Home studio (202)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Experienced (399), Novice (74), Professional musician (43)
    • Primary use:
    • Personal (4), Business (3)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Wow - A professional study in my hand!

I just purchased the new Zoom H4n handheld recorder....upgraded from my old but trusty Zoom PS-04 I've had for 5 years. I do most of my recording on my computer these ...Read complete review

I just purchased the new Zoom H4n handheld recorder....upgraded from my old but trusty Zoom PS-04 I've had for 5 years. I do most of my recording on my computer these days, but I do like to do on-location recordings and capture tracks at other musicians' homes with a handheld unit. This is what I'll use to record bands and my whistling is those great spaces I find in my search for that perfect place.

General:

This device is impressive. It's like a Swiss-Army knife of handheld digital recorders. I've never seen anything with so many options to record with in such a small package. It's not really pocket-sized, so if you looking for a unit to capture spontaneous recordings, you'd be better off with one of the smaller options (Sony PCM-M10 or Edirol R-09HR are examples and are at the same $300 street price point).

I was concerned before I bought it that it might not be as rugged as I'd like. The PS-04 was not built to last, but the H4n seems quiet well-constructed. It has a metal frame but the stereo mics are not protected as with the Sony PCM-D50 for example). I purchased an additional SKB foam-lined case for transporting, so it's up to me not to drop it on the mics when I'm using it.

Modes of recording:

The flexibly here is one of the major reasons I selected the H4n. Besides the built-in stereo recording (std. Left & Right stereo), it has a 4-mic surround mode (with extra mics you provide), individual multi-track mono recording...and combinations of stereo and mono. The two phantom-powered XLR mic inputs put it in a class of much more expensive units (such as the Marantz PMD661 at twice the price). This allows me to use my really nice mics if I find the need. Of course, carrying lots of extra pieces defeats the idea of a small, portible solution, but I can get everything I need including an extra mic into the SKB case. The H4n can be used as a computer interface and even comes with Cubase LE software....they've thought of everything.

Ease-Of-Use:

One thing to worry about in any device or software with so many options is whether they get in the way of simplicity. At first I thought this was the case with the H4n, but it's quite simple to do a basic recording using the stereo mics, which are the default input option:

1 - Turn it on
2 - Press Record button to get in Standby mode(i.e ready to record)
It automatically creates a new file for you.
3 - Press the Play buttpm and start whistling
4- Press the Stop button when you're done

That's not rocket science for sure. If you're only into basic use, then just use the knife and forget about the spoon and nail-clippers on this Swiss Army knife. The good thing is that you'll have to work hard to outgrow the H4n.

Of-course, I had to try things like recording at higher quality settings (96kHz and 24 bits!), using a limiter to avoid too high volume, and other options. These aren't hard to do, but I did have to refer to the manual a few times. BTW - The manual is pretty instructive with lots of pictures.

The coolest thing is that you can perform any configuration setting using just two controls - the Menu button and the Selection Wheel. The Selection Wheel not only controls scrolling thru menus (upwards/return) it also has a Press function to select sub-menus or specific settings. If you're right-handed, you can navigate the menues with only your thumb....that's nice. Sorry, I don't think they make a left-handed model, so more more fingers are required for you lefties.

The screen is a nice and bright back-lit LCD display which is easy to read. The system tries to conserve battery power, so it'll turn the background lighting off if you aren't interacting with it for a few seconds (also configurable), but that's a good thing. I'm using rechargeable NiMH AAs and I'll be studying how long they really last - never trust the documentation this spec...and carry extra batteries. The H4n ships with an AC adapter, but batteries reduce the chance that someone trips over the power cable and destroys the H4n.

Sound Quality:

I've only experimented with the built-in stereo mics at highest quality settings. I bought an extra 8GB SD card so I wouldn't have to worry about running out of space in a single session using the best quality. In summary, the stereo mics sounded pretty good for an ambient recording of whistling in my bathroom. I found that the 120 degree angle was slightly more open sounding (i.e. more room in the sound) than the 90 degree angle for the stereo mics.

The one down side of using the built-in mics is that they do pick-up any touching of the unit. This isn't a problem if you're recording a band for a long period of time, but you need to remember not to press the Stop or Pause buttons (or even brush the unit) until what you want to record has passed. This is why I bought the optional remote....I can do the basic recording functions from a distance. I also bought a more robust mic/tripod adapter even though a basic plastic one ships with the H4n.

The built-in speaker is adequate to reassure yourself you've recorded something, but I found that the frequency-response can't handle my higher whistling notes without distorting. At first, I was worried that the recordings were distorted, but with headphones I was able to find them to be OK. I recommend using good headphones so you can tell if the recordings are good...clear, enough level, no distortion etc.

Bottom Line:

I'm impressed so far with the H4n. Time will tell if it really is a "professional" device that works for recording my whistling. I haven't tested the XLR inputs and associated preamps. The preamps on the PS-04 were not very good for whistling, but I made good recordings using the Line input which bypasses the preamps (just need an external preamp - more pieces to haul!). The H4n does not have a Line-level input jack...so I will live and die by the quality of the built-in preamps.

Ciao!

FrancescoB - The Jazz Whistler

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

 

More than disappointment

I rated this product as I did at 2 stars because of a complex of draw backs and cons which prevented me from hailing this unit and praising it as I hoped I would be ...Read complete review

I rated this product as I did at 2 stars because of a complex of draw backs and cons which prevented me from hailing this unit and praising it as I hoped I would be able to. Let us see why step by step but first let me assure you that I am not one of those negative people who has generally negative outlook at life and whom it is virtually impossible to please. I rated other things very high and in some cases gave other products on other sites the highest ratings too. I am a videographer and purchased this unit in hopes to get professional grade sound for my videos. Reasoning was its compact size combined with ability to record at 24bit/96kHz as well as XLR inputs which are critical to me. I intended to use this unit as a backdrop environment sound for back channels in 5.1 or as a backup for main sound pattern in some cases.I will start with topmost star rating of 5 as permitted on this site and go from there. I will explain each problem that Zoom H4n exposes and subtract corresponding value for each.First thing first: the sound quality. While built-in microphones provide sufficient sound clarity and recording at 24/96 produces sufficient frequency spectrum, the level of self-noise is simply overwhelming to me. Do not be confused although, it is not overly loud for most consumer-related needs and will probably work quite well for most of the tasks which all other reviewers here seem to mention, but in my case the expected result is compared to a production level and it does not withstand even moderate criticism. I was able to get by only when I hooked up one of my studio mics (Audiotechnica 4033 to be specific) via phantom-powered XLR inputs, recorded voice-over narrations this way and then used software on my PC to apply noise gate at -40dB followed by voice compressor. Then only my recordings became more or less acceptable in quality for production. Forget "perfect" as many people here say and I am not even talking about decent, the quality reached mere acceptable status: the noise, removed from the pauses between speeches was still layered over the voice and you could hear it quite distinctively. To be fair although, many people may not notice it because they listen to the text and their attention is usually drawn to the context but since my job was making it sound right, I was paying attention to the sound itself and I could hear every flaw loud and clear while computer signal analysis visualizes the noise for me.I decided to give it another try and attempted to record something which is quite hard to capture very clearly: a cat purr. This time I used built-in mics and chased my little kitty when she was purring in gratitude for food. I shoved this thing right in her face which made my pet scared for a while but eventually the job was done. Imagine my frustration when I looked at my sound in Sound Forge and heard it in my speakers. Forget computer hardware issues, I have highest quality 24 and 32 bit processing sound card and excellent sound system and I look at the sound in analyzer rather than relying on cheap speakers as many do. My recording went straight to trash. The job wasn't handled at all.Again, if you are nothing more than an average person who never heard of 24bit DVD-Audio or Super Audio CD and spent no more than $1000 for your home sound system or do not work in audio/video production, you have nothing to worry about: you may not notice any issues with noise. But if you are a professional who needs quality above all, be forewarned. For this very significant and probably most critical issue with Zoom H4n I am taking one star off of the highest available rating. This is quite moderate subtraction in my opinion by the way. So far we are at 4 stars.Next, it allows 24bit at 96kHz recording in Mono and Stereo mode only. For 4 channel recording you are limited to 24bit at 48kHz only and if you hoped to use MTR mode, forget 24 bit, you are back to basics and that is 16bit at 44.1kHz only. Too bad, I wish it allowed 24 bit across the board. In my dreams in case with Zoon H4n although. Subtracting one more star and we are at 3 now.Next, Zoom H4n ASIO driver is not meant to work with 64bit operating systems. This means that if you have Vista 64 or Windows 7 64 bit, forget about connecting your Zoom and using included Cubase LE4 directly. Not going to happen. All you can do is get your SD card, copy files via card reader and work with files this way. This also means that all promised native support in inclosed Cubase LE4 is gone. If you wish it worked as promised, get yet one more PC or make you computer multi-boot and install 32bit OS. This means additional draw back which makes me very disappointed. Visit this forum and see what user Guyatone who seems to be working for Zoom Corporation says about not being interested even in making their product 64bit OS compatible: [@]I want to be moderate and I subtract half a star at this time. Therefore we are at 2.5 stars now.Next issue is with included Cubase LE4. While this software is supplied by Steinberg ([@]) rather than Zoom Corporation, it is still sold together with Zoom and therefore becomes part of the deal. As such it affects the general perception of the product and therefore Zoom folks should pay very close attention to this piece as well in order to keep their face up. Unfortunately, there is a huge problem here too. You cannot use CubaseLE4 more than 30 days or 3000 launches without activation but Steinberg's software activation web page does not work. First, you create an account on their site which works ok. Then you are forwarded to a page where you select Cubase LE4 for activation and registration and that's when you get "Error 404: not found page" message. Excuse me? Yes, you bought this product legitimately, you wish to register and activate it and instead you get "404" garbage. I don't know about you but this makes me very mad. Steinberg is yet to fix their issues, I am still not activated yet: we will see how long it would take them to fix their poor design issues. But because I am such a nice and cool guy, I am subtracting another half a star only. And that brings us to 2 stars only.I hoped to sing praises to this unit when I ordered it based on feedback of all other reviewers on this site but after encountering all mentioned above issues I am contemplating on returning my unit for refund. I still need some compact low noise recorder with 24 bit capability and XLR input as Zoom didn't stand up to its reputation.

Reviewed by 549 customers

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5.0

Great entry level portable recorder

By Opera Guy

from NYC

About Me Professional Musician

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Built
  • Cubase software
  • Easy To Use
  • Excellent Sound
  • Excellent stereo recordin
  • Expandability
  • Functionality
  • Mic configuration
  • Mic sensitivity
  • Multitrack recording
  • No guilt after buying it
  • Pcmac sound interface
  • Portability
  • Powerful
  • Quality
  • Recording formats
  • Sound quality
  • Versatile

Cons

  • Dated display

Best Uses

  • Events
  • Home Studio
  • Performances

Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

I use this recorder to record voice, specifically opera singers and piano. The sound is crystal clear and natural sounding. I've looked for many months for something that would capture voice to it's purest nature; this is it. Voice sounds warm and clear. The recorder captures the low, mid, and high frequencies perfectly. The ability to plug in two condenser mics to record a grand piano in stereo on top of the voice its a must. Of course, like any other equipment there are optimal settings, i.e, levels, distances, etc. Once you've master this, you will be producing some amazing recordings. In my case I need to record demo materials every six month for auditions and websites. I used to spend close to $800 at a studio, now I can do it all for free (except the pianist fee). There are some reviews out there comparing it to professional gear worth thousands and of course these people are biased towards the more expensive gear. I am extremely satisfied with the product. If you are on a budget and you need great functionality and quality, get this.

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5.0

Nifty Device

By K

from FL

About Me Novice

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Easy To Use
  • Excellent Sound
  • Versatile

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Amateur Recording

    Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

    Lots of features, great sound quality. Used with Canon 7d.

    Share this review

     
    5.0

    h4n audio recorder for 5d mark II

    By rankol

    from las Vegas, nv

    About Me Experienced

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • AA batteries
    • Easy To Use
    • Excellent Sound
    • Remote
    • Xlr jacks

    Cons

    • No top screen
    • Plastic housing

    Best Uses

    • Amateur Recording
    • Capture sound for DSLR vi
    • Professional Recording

    Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

    We use this recorder with the Canon 5D Mark II Mark2 DSLR camera for recording HD video to produce corporate product videos. The onboard audio on the 5d and other DSLR cameras is very weak. It is especially bad in noisy environments like trade shows and in the field demonstrations. The H4n is really simple to use. We have used the internal microphones and plugged in external handheld miss via the XLR jacks. Next we are going to try wireless lav mics. we have posted our videos on youtube under spicorp1. The latest videos from the shot show were recorded with the H4n and handheld mic. We then mixed in the audio from the 5d to get a background noise level. The results were very good. all our videos are on x20 . org. The only thing I don't like so far is that the housing has a for tof plastic feel that makes it seem cheap. This is not critical and the performance so far has be excellent.

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    5.0

    Great piece of gear

    By Bill the STud

    from Vancouver, BC

    Verified Buyer

    Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

    Great piece of gear, worth every penny.

    Share this review

     
    4.0

    Terrific little device

    By Matt

    from Cambridge, CA

    About Me Novice

    Verified Buyer

    Pros

    • Easy To Use
    • Excellent Sound
    • Versatile

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Amateur Recording
      • Events
      • Performances

      Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

      This is a fantastic little recording device. I use it quite frequently in video production, the XLR and line in inputs are especially quite useful. The batteries last a decent amount of time, though you will probably want to get some rechargeable ones after your purchase. You can't go wrong here if you're looking for good quality a starter mobile recorder.

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      5.0

      Professional audio in you hands

      By SurfCity64

      from USA

      About Me Experienced

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Easy To Use
      • Excellent Sound
      • Versatile

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Events
        • Home Studio
        • Professional Recording

        Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

        The Zoom h4 is everything you read here and more. Easy to set up and use. XLR inputs, built in stereo microphones and multiple ways to setup recording. WAV or MP3, USB download...super easy.

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        (0 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

         
        3.0

        Not what I expected

        By Topbunk

        from Burlington, NJ

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Versatile

        Cons

        • Low XLR input levers

        Best Uses

        • Performances

        Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

        I got this to replace my Zoom H1. I was disappointed with the low XLR input levels. I end up having to use the 1/8" stereo input instead. The unit has some nice features suited for a wide range of applications. It would do well as a stand alone field recorder. I wouldn't recommend it for use with a DSLR though.

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        5.0

        Great recorder

        By shopenka

        from Warsaw, Poland

        About Me Experienced

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Easy To Use
        • Excellent Sound
        • Powerful

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Events
          • Performances
          • Professional Recording

          Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

          It has really many functions but still is easy to use, captures great quality sound. It's worth every dollar you spend on it.

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          4.0

          Overall good mobile device

          By Prangsta

          from NY, NY

          About Me Experienced

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Excellent Sound
          • Versatile

          Cons

          • Difficult To Use
          • Doesn't connect to MACS

          Best Uses

          • Performances
          • Professional Recording

          Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

          works great as an external audio receiver fro my Canon T3i. Now with a wire split, I can use both headphones and a boom at the same time. The volume receiver control is also great for mobile audio recording.

          Very disappointed though with its lack of connection to MAC computers. Buy a card reader or you will be out of luck if you have a MAC

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          4.0

          Fantastic aside from the boot time

          By Drew

          from Detroit, Mi

          About Me Experienced

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Easy To Use
          • Excellent Sound
          • Low Distortion
          • Powerful
          • Versatile

          Cons

          • Long Boot Time

          Best Uses

          • Events
          • External Audio for Video
          • Performances
          • Professional Recording

          Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

          The H4n is a truly professional grade product. Low noise floor from the amplifiers. Makes my Audio Technica AT897 sound like a dream compared to many other recording devices. Works well from a multitude of sources. Nice case included along with a foam windscreen. Only problem is boot time.

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          4.0

          Record/Play Audio

          By Jim Powers

          from Philadelphia, PA

          About Me Experienced

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

          • Excellent Sound

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Amateur Recording
            • Home Studio
            • Professional Recording

            Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

            First and foremost; if you throw down the cash on this recorder, buy a better windscreen also, because the one that comes with it is worthless. There is a company out there that makes third-party windscreens, but you can make one for cheaper by constructing it out of fake fur. If you know how a needle and thread work, go to anyone that sells fabric and buy some fake fur.

            The formfactor on this model isn't bad and you feel the quality in its construction. I haven't used the recorder's "Stamina" mode, but I like knowing that at the flip of a switch I can extend the batteries' life. The 96kHz/24bit audio resolution is amazing.

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            5.0

            If one's good, two are better

            By fuzzydog

            from Hampstead, NC

            About Me Experienced

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

            • Easy To Use
            • Excellent Sound

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • "tough to place" mics
              • Backup recorder
              • Field recording

              Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

              I bought my first H4n a year ago, and right after my PMD670 croaked, got another H4n. Bulletproof, reliable, versatile.

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              4.0

              Best mobile audio recorder

              By Nick W.

              from Boston, MA

              About Me Experienced

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

              • Easy To Use
              • Excellent Sound
              • Low Distortion
              • Versatile

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Events
                • Home Studio
                • Professional Recording

                Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                I use the H4n in conjunction with a Canon 5D Mark II. I like it because not only am I able to monitor audio as I record and pass it through onto the 5D II, but the quality is also great. Also, when capturing audio only, the H4n's built in mics do a really nice job. Finally, the number of features such as recording format, etc. really make this a no brainer as far as portable audio recording goes.

                Share this review

                 
                4.0

                Not perfect but really good!

                By brath

                from Sayreville, NJ

                About Me Experienced

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

                • Versatile

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Amateur Recording
                  • Home Studio

                  Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                  This recorder, from all the other portable recorders in the market is so far the best. The software that controls the recorder is not as new but it does the job. I was waiting for a new release because this H4n is from 2009 and I thought they would release a new one but until today... nothing came up. It's been doing a good job, not perfect, but good!

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                  5.0

                  great gadget

                  By bosstruck

                  from Hidalgo, TX

                  About Me Professional Musician

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Use
                  • Excellent Sound

                  Cons

                  • Unnecessary Functions

                  Best Uses

                  • Professional Recording

                  Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                  a great product, the quality of recording is very good, although the memory card with which it comes is peqeña, but adding one of greater capacity, really it is very good.

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                  5.0

                  Works great w/ my DSLR

                  By Donnie

                  from Las Vegas, NV

                  About Me Experienced

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Use
                  • Excellent Sound
                  • Versatile

                  Cons

                  • None

                  Best Uses

                  • Events

                  Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                  Coupled with thelLine to microphone attenuation cable, the Zoom H4n is a major upgrade from my Rode shotgun mic. I love the audio options I have available with the two line in inputs. Also, after spending some time with the manual, operating it was a breeze. Well worth the money spent.

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                  5.0

                  Love this recorder

                  By conman

                  from new york

                  About Me Novice

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

                  • Easy To Use
                  • Excellent Sound

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                    • Professional Recording

                    Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                    Will be using this toll for film school productions.

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                    5.0

                    Awesome Device

                    By JR Shot You Photography

                    from New York, NY

                    About Me Experienced

                    Verified Buyer

                    Pros

                    • Easy To Use
                    • Excellent Sound
                    • Low Distortion
                    • Powerful
                    • Versatile

                    Cons

                      Best Uses

                      • Amateur Recording
                      • Events
                      • Home Studio
                      • Performances
                      • Professional Recording

                      Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                      I use it with my Canon 7D to record sound. It records very well.

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                      5.0

                      Perfect for DSLR Videographers

                      By RDM

                      from Philadelphia

                      About Me Experienced

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Easy To Use
                      • Excellent Sound
                      • Versatile

                      Cons

                      • Windscreen

                      Best Uses

                      • Events
                      • Performances
                      • Professional Recording

                      Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                      This is a great mic to use for documentary to production videography work. The onboard mics are great, but the option of 2 xlr inputs is what makes this portable recorder stand out. For environmental sounds or for low key shooting, the onboard mic with a third party windscreen is more than ideal (the included windscreen is not very good at all). This is a must have if you are shooting video on DSLR's. Also has a line out to go into the mic input on most DSLR's. Most DSLR's don't have manual audio controls, so you may have to sync your audio and video in post, or use Magic Lantern to give your camera manual audio control.

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                      5.0

                      Must have for pro filmmakers

                      By Hany Anber

                      from New York

                      About Me Experienced

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Easy To Use
                      • Excellent Sound
                      • Low Distortion
                      • Powerful
                      • Versatile

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • Professional Recording

                        Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                        Two things attract me to a product: functions & durability

                        This portable audio recording doesn't fall short of the two. This is what you need on location if you are a DSLR filmmaker wanting to record pro audio.

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                        Accessory Packages

                        Rycote -  Portable Recorder Audio Kit for Zoom H4n
                        • Price: $159.99
                         

                        Batteries & Power

                        Varta -  High-Energy 1.5 V AA E91 Alkaline Battery - 4 Pk
                        • Price: $1.50
                         
                        Pearstone -  NM-4H23 4 AA NiMH Batteries (2300mAh) with 4 Hour Charger (110-240V)
                        • Price: $13.99
                         

                        Cables

                        Pearstone -  3-Pin XLR Male to 3-Pin XLR Female Audio Cable (6')
                        • Price: $14.95
                         

                        Media

                        Lexar -  4GB Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Card
                        • Price: $7.49
                         

                        Headphones

                        Audio-Technica -  ATH-M2X Headphone
                        • Price: $19.99
                         

                        Wind Protection

                        WindTech -  MM-51 Mic-Muff Fitted Fur Windscreen
                        • Price: $24.95
                         

                        Cases & Protection

                        Porta Brace -  AR-ZH4 Case for Zoom H4/H4n
                        • Price: $77.25
                        • Instant Savings: -$10.00
                        • Offer ends FEB 29 '12
                        • You Pay: $67.25
                         
                        View all Accessories

                        What's in the Box

                        Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder
                        • AC Adapter
                        • SD Card (2GB)
                        • Wind Screen
                        • Mic Clip Adapter
                        • USB Cable
                        • Protective Case
                        • 1-Year Limited Warranty
                         
                         
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