Zoom H4n is the most sophisticated portable handheld recorder with new features and improved user experience at every level. Among its many new features, Zoom’s H4n offers superior, built-in X/Y stereo condenser mics that allow variable recording patterns at either 90° or 120°. Higher quality audio capture through its new, digitally controlled, high-quality mic preamp, the ability to use internal and external mics simultaneously for 4 channel recording, a large LCD screen,more intuitive interface and onboard reference speaker will take the user’s recording experience to the next level. The H4n’s onboard X/Y stereo condenser mics are arranged with the right and left mics on the same axis. This design ensures that the mics are always equidistant from the sound source for perfect localization with no phase shifting. Frequency response remains uniform throughout your recording. The result is great stereo recording with natural depth and accurate imaging every time. The mics also adjust for variable recording patterns at either 90° or 120°. Our unique design lets you rotate each mic capsule from 90° (standard) to 120° (wide-angle) stereo for the ultimate versatility in any recording situation. Everyone knows that proper miking is essential to making a great recording. The H4n is the only handheld recorder that allows you to record on four channels simultaneously by using its onboard mics with either external mics or direct inputs. You can then use its built-in mixer to blend the channels for perfectly balanced recordings. Now your recordings can be richer than ever before. Or, to get a great recording of a live performance, use the H4n’s onboard mics to get a room mix while simultaneously recording a stereo mix from the mixing board for a live recording that is easily one of the best you’ve ever heard.

5 Responses to “Zoom H4n Handy Portable Digital Recorder”

1. Jerkules says:

   May 24, 2010 at 12:00 am

   I’ve been using the Zoom H4N to record separate audio tracks for my Canon 7D primarily due to the auto gain control on the 7D. When compared to the onboard audio the difference is amazing. This picks up much more detail, separates the stereo channels much better than the onboard mic. The H4N allows me to monitor recording levels, move the mic away from the camera to eliminate sound from the focusing and lens stabilization and I can add a wind screeen to virtually elimiate wind noise. Sound quality is great, plenty of options for adding 4 channel sound with XLR / 1/4″ combo jack. This means you can have directional mics for voice and still use stereo mics for ambient and mix and monitor them in the H4N too to reduce the amount of work in post. Line out makes it easy to use as external mic for the 7D too, especially with sturdy tripod mount.
2. Bradford Needham says:

   May 22, 2010 at 12:00 am

   I’m delighted with this recorder. My previous audio recorder was a Sony Minidisc recorder – it’s great to be digital now. I found the recorder easy to use. I added a RedHead windscreen, which works much better than the Zoom’s foam windscreen. My only complaint (easily resolved) is that when I hold the recorder in my hand, the mic is very sensitive to movements of my hand. The solution is to hold the recorder by the mic stand (the short stick that comes with it).
3. M. Gammond says:

   May 18, 2010 at 12:00 am

   I love the recorder, I use to create samples for remixing — however it was impossible at first to get the audio downloaded and able to listen to it in an easy format.

   I found a tool named vortex zoom encoder which I bought for 30.00 bucks and now I am able to easily listen and convert to formats I can mix/play while DJ’ing, little bit of a pain at first but finally got the hang of it.

   Michael.
4. James A. Burles says:

   May 16, 2010 at 12:00 am

   This recorder works great for recording rough or scrub takes. The stero mics are excellent and the overall controls are simple and easy to use. Downloading to the PC DAW is USB and also works great (just like any USB drive). The 4 channel also works good so your I can record 2 channels from my ToneBone acoustic pre amp and 2 from the stero mics.

   Also works great for home recording as you can capture your foundation acoustic takes in other rooms without dragging all your big mics and recording gear there. The metronome feature is also great for recording the first acoustic foundation tracks in any room.

   I’ve got a larger PC recording system with several good condensor mics, but this little device is an awesome addtion even if you just use it to sort out ideas..
5. Konrad Czystowski says:

   May 11, 2010 at 12:00 am

   This is hands down the most affordable audio recorder in it’s class.

   I didn’t originally think it was that great as I was misinformed that you couldn’t adjust the audio levels individually for each channel. I bought it anyway, I red the manual and I love it. You can record to 4 channels at the time and adjust the levels individually which is absolutely awesome. And for the price… you can’t beat it.