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Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder

  • Price: $299.99
  • GBP 191.53
  • Mail In Rebate -$30.00 (see details)
    offer ends JUN 30 '12
  • 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 1GB 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, 1GB 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
ZoomH4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder
 
4.6

(based on 629 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (408)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (189)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (19)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (10)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (3)

97%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend.

Pros

  • Excellent sound (542)
  • Easy to use (496)
  • Versatile (470)
  • Low distortion (315)
  • Good power output (278)

Cons

  • Unnecessary functions (38)
  • Difficult to use (28)
  • Poor quality construction (22)
  • Short battery life (8)
  • Poor sound quality (7)

Best Uses

  • Professional recording (376)
  • Outdoor events / games (321)
  • Amateur recording (297)
  • Performances (296)
  • Home studio (239)
    • Reviewer Profile:
    • Experienced (458), Novice (84), Professional musician (53)
    • Primary use:
    • Personal (4), Business (3)

Most Liked Positive Review

 

Multi-functional

In my opinion, this piece of equipment is a must have for any multimedia professional. But before I rave, lets start first with some cons...

What I was least plea...Read complete review

In my opinion, this piece of equipment is a must have for any multimedia professional. But before I rave, lets start first with some cons...

What I was least pleased with, was the exclusion of any way to attach this to my body or clothing. Even searching B&H and the rest of the internet I wasn't able to find much besides a case that looked cumbersome and over-the-top. Because I use this as a mobile unit to supplement the shotgun mic for my DSLR, it needed to be attached to me, and not shoved in some pocket where buttons could be pressed if the unit was unlocked. To solve this I ended up going to my local hardware store and constructing myself a belt-clip that screwed into the threads on the back. A bit of work, and hardly ideal, but it works. Also, I find that the menu is a little annoying to navigate (there's a dial that you spin on the side of it to move up and down). Not a deal breaker by any means, but again, when you're the sound guy on a set, it's not fun being waited on because you're adjusting settings between shots. I've also found that the way the files are categorized is upsetting. Simple 01, 02, 03 file names makes it difficult to recall files if not renamed after being upload. But being diligent to date file folders with when the audio was recorded avoids having 20 "01" files floating around. Finally, least of all, there is no lock for the XLR cable like most systems and microphones have, so when hanging from my belt I am always afraid that I will yank out the XLR. Simply something to be aware of.

The pros however, are wonderful. The built-in elements aren't the best, but for a piece of equipment of this price, they pass with flying colors. Great for room tones and background audio. The XLRs are also 1/4th connectors which provides great versatility. The back lit screen works wonders in dark environment such as concert halls, dance recitals, or plays. It is very clear whether or not you are recording. There's a lock function on the side to prevent tampering while recording. The threads on the back make it easy to attach to a mic stand or tripod (granted appropriate thread adapters). Phantom power... oh yes, phantom power, is probably the main reason I bought this little guy. And many people complain that it runs through batteries too quick. Well, you ARE using 48v if you've got phantom power engaged (it also has a 24v option), so of course you're going to run through batteries! I bought 8 rechargeable Pearstone batteries and they will last me all day. I can recharge them at night, and go all day the next day. Stamina mode is also wonderful if 16 bit - 44.1kHz - MP3 is acceptable audio for your purpose. Stamina mode running the attached elements will run for HOURS on two fully charged batteries. The gain is plenty, and pretty darn clean at that. The ability to record the mic elements and XLR/TRS inputs is great as well, and I use it often. The XLR/TRS levels can be adjusted independently of each other or linked together. One XLR channel can be summed to mono to reduce any post work. Built in limiter is better than clipped audio... The list goes on and on (believe me)!

In all, this really is a must have. There are so many uses, and it has saved me numerous times. It's small enough to fit in my camera case along with my shotgun mic and a short coiled up XLR cable. Fits the bill perfectly. Get one!

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 629 customers

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4.0

Great Recording Device!

By Joe

from CT

About Me Experienced

Verified Buyer

Pros

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

Cons

  • Gets Hot

Best Uses

  • Events
  • Performances

Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

Used during a wedding shoot to capture clean audio.
Ran in 4-track mode, one direct XLR from the board, and live ambience from the room via the built-in stereo mics.
Auto mode worked great, built in limiter/compressor and added bonus.
Sound quality is remarkable!
It did freeze up once after about an hour straight recording, had to force-reboot, but it doesn't appear that I lost anything.

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5.0

Excellent tool for film making

By Mike

from Chicago

About Me Experienced

Verified Buyer

Pros

  • Compact
  • Easy To Use
  • Excellent Sound

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Performances
    • Professional Recording

    Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

    We are documentary film makers and use this unit to collect foley ambiance and as an additional sound source in complex shoots. We recently used the H4n in a dance film to capture the background sounds of the dancers feet as they touched the floor. It greatly improved the finished product and made you feel as if you were there. It is a very simple unit to use and the sound quality is very good. It is a small unit that you can set and forget especially if you do not fit external mics. In interviews we mic the subject directly to the camera, but it could also be used in this manner.

    Share this review

     
    5.0

    Best Product for HDSLR and Pro Video

    By Ron Tyler/ AFP-HD

    from Tyler, Texas

    About Me Experienced

    Pros

    • Compact
    • 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 bought 2 of these for each HDSLR camera I use everyday. Best bang for buck and ZOOM really got it right with the H4N. I have 2 and have ordered 4 more.
      We use them everyday for live recording on location and also for recording live concerts for our clients. The cleanest sound we have ever found on a digital portable recorder that is so easy to use a "CAVE MAN CAN DO IT". We will be using the 4 additional units with our new 5DMARKIII caneras that are on the way. ZOOM keep up the great work on the fine products. The H4N also works great on a boom pole set up as well. YOU CAN'T BEAT A ZOOM H4N.

      Share this review

       
      5.0

      Great portable audio recorder

      By Joe

      from Maryland

      About Me Experienced

      Verified Buyer

      Pros

      • Excellent Sound
      • Low Distortion
      • Powerful
      • Versatile

      Cons

        Best Uses

        • Events
        • Home Studio
        • Performances
        • Professional Recording

        Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

        Versatile, portable, great product

        Share this review

         
        4.0

        Essential

        By jacenK

        from Chicago

        About Me Experienced

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

        • Compact
        • Easy To Use
        • Versatile

        Cons

        • More recordable tracks

        Best Uses

        • Amateur Recording
        • Events

        Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

        Easiest system for DSLR users

        Share this review

         
        5.0

        I like it

        By xkillz

        from Vilnius, Lithuania

        About Me Novice

        Verified Buyer

        Pros

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

        Cons

          Best Uses

          • Amateur Recording
          • Home Studio
          • Performances

          Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

          I bought this recorder for video documentary and live performance recoding. So far it works as expected. currently I'm looking for lapel mic as those two condenser mics are sensitive and capture a lot of environment noise :)
          Also I have experienced some problems with recording performances witch were dynamical from -24db to -3 db range. I would expect wider range available. because on -24 I had some noise

          Share this review

           
          4.0

          Excellent low cost audio solution.

          By Christopher Rubin

          from Ramsey, NJ

          About Me Experienced

          Verified Buyer

          Pros

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

          Cons

            Best Uses

            • Amateur Recording
            • Performances
            • Professional Recording

            Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

            I am a professional videographer, and I purchased this product to capture professional quality audio when shooting with my DSLR. I have previous audio capture experience working with FOSTEX Flash recorders, and in all honesty, I haven't noticed a huge difference in audio quality between the two (at least for my needs). While the on board mics are surprisingly clear considering the price point, I would recommend purchasing a professional mic with this to achieve the best quality. This recorder even gives you the option to mix the on board mics with two external mics of your choice (via the XLR inputs on the bottom) into a 4 channel audio file. Records in both WAV and MP3. If you're a run and gun shooter, working as a one man show, this is probably your best bet.

            Share this review

             
            4.0

            Versatile, easy

            By Bill

            from Fargo, ND

            About Me Experienced

            Verified Buyer

            Pros

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

            Cons

              Best Uses

              • Amateur Recording
              • Events
              • News

              Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

              We use it at a radio station. it works great handheld for field interviews, but then is also good for some of the other kinds of things our public radio station records -- panels, group presentations. We have found the way the menu-click system works to be easy and quick to learn for interns. It's good that it can be easy to use for those who need it simple, but that you can get pretty complex, too. The recordings sound great.

              Share this review

               
              2.0

              Live Events with lots of sound

              By Horace the Borace

              from NYC

              About Me Novice

              Verified Reviewer

              Pros

              • Compact
              • Powerful
              • Versatile

              Cons

              • Poor Sound Quality
              • Unnecessary Functions

              Best Uses

              • Amateur Recording
              • Home Studio

              Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

              i reviewed the dr100-mk2 on b&h you can see the comparison review there.

              in short, the preamp is too noisy on this device for me. the dr100-2 is much quieter.

              if you are recording bands, live events, or anything with lots of sound and no quiet spots, this will work just fine.

              also, the biggest advantage of the h4n (imho) is the 4 channel recording capability, which the dr100-2 cannot do.

              basically, i would only recommend this for the above uses. in general, i wouldn't recommend it.

              Share this review

               
              4.0

              great product

              By media specialist

              from Oregon

              About Me Experienced

              Verified Buyer

              Pros

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

              Cons

                Best Uses

                • Events
                • Offcamera video recording
                • Performances
                • Professional Recording

                Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                I have not had this product long so I'm still learning how to utilize it, but I recorded a high school talent show with it to use for a video and was very impressed with the sound quality.

                Share this review

                 
                5.0

                Top Flight Recorder in a Little Package

                By JJJJ

                from Cranston, RI

                About Me Experienced

                Verified Buyer

                Pros

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

                Cons

                  Best Uses

                  • Home Studio
                  • Professional Recording

                  Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                  The ZOOM folks have it figured out. I was in broadcasting for over 30 years. If I had a gizmo like this back then, I would have saved hours and hours of time and created more audio projects. It's easy to use, portable and inexpensive. The quality of the recordings are unbelievable.

                  Share this review

                   
                  5.0

                  Awesome recorder

                  By KG

                  from Bozeman, MT

                  About Me Experienced

                  Verified Buyer

                  Pros

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

                  Cons

                    Best Uses

                      Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                      I use the Zoom H4n for recording audio interviews, audio for mulimedia pieces, snagging audio from mixers at lectures and as a backup for video projects. It's durable and has XLR inputs which is helpful for pro mics and plugging into mixing boards.

                      Share this review

                      (1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)

                       
                      4.0

                      Great and not so great

                      By Jordi

                      from Seattle, WA

                      About Me Experienced

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

                      • Compact
                      • Excellent Sound

                      Cons

                      • Low battery life

                      Best Uses

                      • DSLR Videography
                      • Events
                      • Voice Overs
                      • Weddings

                      Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                      This is a great audio recording device that I use for all my filming events. I'm a DSLR videographer so the Zoom h4n provides me with the top quality audio that I dont get from my DSLR. The quality is amazing and you have multiple ways of recording audio which is handy as many audio desks have different outputs i.e. XLR or stereo jack that can plug straight into the zoom. The only negative I find with the zoom is that it has a very short battery life. At weddings it is always a rush to get your audio recording so you don't always have the time to plug in. Running it off 2AA's normally only gives you around 4-5 hours so I find that a stress to worry about changing the batteries. The quality of the end product makes up this though.

                      Share this review

                       
                      3.0

                      Could be better...

                      By Rob

                      from Austin

                      About Me Experienced

                      Verified Buyer

                      Pros

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

                      Cons

                        Best Uses

                        • HDSLR audio alternative

                        Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                        This is really a musician's tool. The multi-track is good for field use and the XLR inputs with phantom power is great. But the metronome and other features for musicians are not any use to me. I wish there was a video mode that recorded in a true 23.976 and 29.97 frames per second. Over long recordings the 4Hn will lose time to the tune of about 4 frames for every 10 minutes… pending frame rate you are shooting. But the build quality is very good. I wish there was a better door to the media card slot. Its easily opened and kind of flimsy. Good recording quality and very compact! It's worth it for the money.

                        Share this review

                         
                        4.0

                        Easy and Functional

                        By RMD2

                        from Charlottesville, VA

                        About Me Experienced

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

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

                        Cons

                        • Unnecessary Functions

                        Best Uses

                        • Audio for DSLR recording
                        • Interviews

                        Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                        I am primarily using this to gather audio to accompany video footage recorded on DSLRs. This is a great additional audio recording option for people on the move. It is small and user friendly such that even a novice sound person can accomplish professional goals. While there are certainly higher end options with more control, the H4n offers pretty much everything you need to get quality audio recording for interviews or basic sound settings when filming.

                        Share this review

                         
                        5.0

                        Heymanu

                        By heymanu

                        from Philadelphia PA

                        About Me Experienced

                        Verified Buyer

                        Pros

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

                        Cons

                          Best Uses

                          • Mobile DJ
                          • Performances
                          • Professional Recording

                          Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                          Is a very versatile product, very easy to use and the sound is perfect

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                          5.0

                          A solid product

                          By Film Guy

                          from Rapid City, SD

                          About Me Experienced

                          Verified Buyer

                          Pros

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

                          Cons

                            Best Uses

                            • Home Studio
                            • Professional Recording

                            Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                            The Zoom is a few steps above the competitors, especially for the price and recording abilities. Professional quality audio packed into a small footprint at a fraction of the price of higher end equipment.

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                            5.0

                            and just hit the REC button

                            By Damy

                            from Brasil

                            About Me Novice

                            Verified Buyer

                            Pros

                            • Easy To Use
                            • Excellent Sound

                            Cons

                              Best Uses

                              • Amateur Recording

                              Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                              thanks ZOOM…now rocking and basic recording it's how it's supposse to be….SIMPLE AND FUN.
                              cheers!!!

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                              5.0

                              Everything as promised

                              By Gigantor

                              from Auburn, MI

                              About Me Novice

                              Verified Buyer

                              Pros

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

                              Cons

                                Best Uses

                                • Amateur Recording
                                • Home Studio

                                Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                                Used for 2 channel video production. One lavalier mic and one room mic.

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                                5.0

                                Best Hand Held Recorder, Bar None

                                By JJJJ

                                from Cranston, RI

                                About Me Experienced

                                Verified Buyer

                                Pros

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

                                Cons

                                  Best Uses

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

                                  Comments about Zoom H4n Handy Mobile 4-Track Recorder:

                                  I was in the radio business for over 30 years and would have killed to have something like this back then. The amount of wires I had to cart around and the ability to be near AC power is all but a memory with ZOOM.

                                  The audio quality is superb. It has so many extras, it's hard to describe them all.

                                  I love this recorder.

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                                  Accessory Packages

                                  Rycote -  Portable Recorder Audio Kit for Zoom H4n
                                  • Price: $159.99
                                  • GBP 102.15
                                   

                                  Batteries & Power

                                  Varta -  High-Energy 1.5 V AA E91 Alkaline Battery - 4 Pk
                                  • Price: $1.23
                                  • GBP 0.79
                                   
                                  Pearstone -  NM-4H23 4 AA NiMH Batteries (2300mAh) with 4 Hour Charger (110-240V)
                                    • Original: $13.99
                                    • Save: $1.40
                                  • Price: $12.59
                                  • GBP 8.04
                                   

                                  Cables

                                  Pearstone -  3-Pin XLR Male to 3-Pin XLR Female Audio Cable (6')
                                    • Original: $15.99
                                    • Save: $1.60
                                  • Price: $14.39
                                  • GBP 9.19
                                   

                                  Media

                                  Lexar -  4GB Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC) Card
                                    • Original: $6.95
                                    • Save: $0.69
                                  • Price: $6.26
                                  • GBP 4.00
                                   

                                  Headphones

                                  Audio-Technica -  ATH-M2X Headphone
                                  • Price: $19.99
                                  • GBP 12.76
                                   

                                  Wind Protection

                                  WindTech -  MM-51 Mic-Muff Fitted Fur Windscreen
                                  • Price: $24.95
                                  • GBP 15.93
                                   

                                  Cases & Protection

                                  SKB -  Custom Fit iSeries Waterproof Case for Zoom H4N
                                  • Price: $45.48
                                  • GBP 29.04
                                   
                                  View all Accessories

                                  What's in the Box

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