A few years ago two parents went out for dinner. A few hours later, the babysitter was calling to see if she could cover up the clown statue in the kids' room, the father said "Get the kids and get out of the house, we'll call the police, we don't have a clown statue". The "clown statue" was actually a killer that escaped from jail. If you don't post this on 10 videos tonight the clown will be in your bed at 3:00am with a chainsaw in his hand.
i have a band with a drummer, bassist and guitarist
say we want to do a live recording of a jam or a song and we want to put 2 mics on the drums. can we plug in 2 mics into the inputs on the H4 and then still use the built in mics for the guitar/bass?
Have you tried synching video with audio from your H4 yet?
I love my H4 but I found that its timebase is dreadfully inaccurate. To start with, I thought it was my camera at fault, but further testing revealed that it was the Zoom.
I later found out that this is a common issue. Another common issue is the level of unwanted noise (apparently something to do with the power supply).
It's a shame that Zoom crippled an otherwise superb piece of equipment by using shoddy components.
also, didn't make it clear that you get two different menus depending on how you hit joystick menu button: pushing it directly in gives you different menu than one on this video with "project, file, mode, rec mode...etc". toggling the same menu joystick downwards, however, gives you the menu he shows mostly here with "mic, level, effect, phantom...etc".
Very, very helpful video - thanks so much, geardos! note to other luddites : seems to have to be in 4 track recorder mode to have effects show up in input menu, which makes sense, but for us newbies, helpful to avoid wasting time trying to figure it out.
Hi mate, are u happy with it? I heard is not very good,some problems that's why they made the H4n, is that right? I need a recorder for video with my DSLR but the H4n way too expensive,so I was looking at this one,however people scared me off
Zoom h4 instructions a how to simply divide the tracks up and burn a cd are absolutely horrible - If you are not to good with computers do not buy this product- you'll be in for a world of hurt.
BY FAR!!!! the best review on this product. everyone else's vids just show the tech specs that are already posted on the site. Love the drums at the end. May really get this to record "found sounds" and musicians off the street.
PS does anyone know of a good review like this on the Alesis Protrack for the ipod
so if i wanted to record myself playing drums, which are very loud inside my house, would it be possible to mess around with the limiter setting and some of the other effect settings to get a fairly clean and crisp sound?
I have one and I abosl LOVE it. Great for bootlegging shows, recording 4 tracks and especially just sitting down and recording using the built in mics. On any WAV setting the sound is freakin amazing.
I'm new too all the recording stuff, so I'd like to know. Would I be able to use the H4 to record my band play, and after all the editing and whatever, put it on a CD? Would the files be CD quality, or would it just be good for live recordings?
in theory it does better than cd quality (24bit 96khz).. but it is only a stereo recorder so you can't do real mixing of individual tracks with it.. You can only record 1 stereo or 2 mono tracks at a time
@Geardos... but it does come with software that can help you complete your recording...you will need to record many takes to get the entire band...but yes you can do it with this recorder..!
@James6630 cd quality? not if you mean a well produced and mastered cd no....its a completely different application.
This is for rough recordings or single instrument/ sound source recordings either for production or journalism. If you want to record a band you will need mics a sound card and a computer....as probably the cheapest option. Disregarding that to get a high quality recording you will need a lot mroe than that.
@James6630 wait sorry I completely misread your comment, Yes I should be up to that although i wouldnt use something like this for a job like that. Its great for sampling but for professional recordings this would be a pain in the arse to use. Studio recordings are normally done in parts and having control of each tracks levels/insets/returns/ EQ etc is kind of helpful to do this you would need to be using it as a soundcard with a DAW...
@James6630 ..by this point you are bypassing the field recording section and just using it as a average sound card...its better to use a good sound card and a laptop if you need a portable solution. This would allow for more input possibilities and will generally give you better preamps/ sound quality etc.
This review is very informative. Does anyone know if I can purchase an H4N with warranties intact for about $200.00? Anyone with experience purchasing from Musician's Friend or ZZounds?
The H2 doesn't have the same multi-track features as the H4. But if you can't get quality audio, why bother, IMHO? I use my H4 for podcasting, not multi-track editing. Personally, I find a computer (like a netbook) with editing software a lot easier to use for that sort of thing, anyway. My point is that the H4 's sound quality through the XLR inputs is a disappointment.
Love this unit. I recorded a kayak trip up the Outer Banks and it performed flawlessly. Great stereo separation. You could hear each paddle stroke on the right side, just like being there! Also captured some killer shows (with permission of course!)
The hissing sound is not from cheap mics. Shure SM58, Shure SM7. It's because of the noisy (cheap) preamps that are part of the Zoom H4's XLR inputs. The XLR's are too noisy for pro work, and they don't provide much boost. Yes, my H4 is fully updated.. Add compression and your problems are compounded. And the peeping activity light sound really is a disappointment (although you can avoid this by running off of AC). The internal mics on the H4 are very clean, though.
The options on this device are limitless. After recording in 4 track mode there's an option to merge these tracks into one by clicking on the BOUNCE icon or you can edit these tracks before merging these.
I am disgusted with my H4, compared to my former H2. The H4's XLR inputs are too dirty (noisy) for pro use. Also, the peeping sound coming from the activity light flashing during recording is a dealbreaker for anyone looking for near pro-quality audio. Do your research on these issues before purchasing!
I've had this device for half a year now, and it's one of the most useful and rewarding gadgets I ever bought. The sound quality for acoustic music or spoken word is near studio, for loud (band) recording it does it's job well.
The problems described with the lid and card are actually non-existent. You just need to know the trick! For the lid: open, then pull upward. For the card: PRESS DOWN! The spring system will push the card right out. No nails needed :)
Thank you for the great overview! Have you tried the new Zoom H4n. It seems from what I've been reading on the internet that the sound quality has improved from the H4. I'm wondering if it's really worth it changing equipments.
very very helpful. Thanks!!! I need to get something I can take my short films and get my mic connected to something I can trust. Not worried about the controls...seems like it will get easier with practice. Great review. Keep it up...helps audio newbs like me alot!
if i were to be recording a song withtwo guitars (distortion) one piano and one drum kit. would this thing be good for that/ could i just record and itll have great quality and i can just put it into audacity or some proggram and its as simple as that?
im a beginer at recording but i want this song that im making to have great quality. can someone give me alternatives on what kind of mics i should use or audi programs?
@sovietonionnyc Good for short films? Could I maybe record with 2 different mics at same time and have them as separate files or are they merged into 1 file?
Excellent review. You've helped me out a lot as I wasn't sure about buying this, but looks like it will fit my needs perfectly.
Good video quality and appreciate that you offered up examples. Hearing is believing, so now I have a great indication of it's sound quality too. Well thought out review. (Most people on utube doing reviews just turn on a camera and don't think what they're going to talk about and blather on about pointless stuff)
I bought an H4 about a year ago-its great for capturing my band playing-quick & easy. On board mics are ok & I'm glad it has something to use in a pinch but in general I use my own mics. I find that the conversion to digital is good enough - basically I can get very good recordings out of it with good mics. I've had 2 issues so far. Once I ran out of batteries while recording and I believe this ruined the 16GB card I had in and recently I find it having a hard time turning on with just batteries
For the price, I thinks its worth it. I would not use it for studio work but to quickly capture live stuff its nice. Yes, the menu system is a bit odd but after a little while you get used to it and its fine. I have not done much multi tracking on it but when I did it was not obvious how to move around and had to go to the manual- again I think you can get used to it. Also they have an H4n now that looks like it records 4 tracks at a time and might have better mics - not sure on the price. peace
would you say H4 or H4n is better than H 2? Because the price really matters. H 4 is more expensive than H 2 :/ I'm going to buy one of these (but i don't know which one h2 or h4?) to record my acoustic guitar plugged and unplugged. H4 has also some guitar effects included, right?
everytime I add an onboard effect, the volume rate on my input source reduces to an almost inaudible level, there's no way to control ANYTHING within the four track mode, and the built in pencil condensors pick up nothing but high end feedback....
I'de say the only thing this unit is good for is recording college philosophy lectures!
One of the big problem is "the battery sensor" , when i record in concert long time ( 1 hour , ex.) if the battery become empty the Zoom-H4 stop but without saving the big file !! I buy this becauze is great for record loud band in concert , i record on stage with this H4 in pocket via builtin microphones , The recorded sound is really good , For good level that have a 3 position switch for gain, + one digital seting for gain+ compressor or limiter and lowcut filter , Is very good.
despite everything going digital nowadays i think there will come a day when people will tire of its fakeness and unnaturalness and return to the warmth and genuineness of old analogue equipment
I own this recorder and it has been working fine for me. As the reiveiw said, it is really great if you want to "point and record". Its very handy for my practice sessions. Ive also gotten some good live recordings from it as well. I agree that it would be wonderful if allowed 4 track similtaneous recording though. Seeing as im a drummer this would do wonders for recoding my drumkit.
I found what I needed!The Boss Micro BR is perfect for my needs!I found it at Musician's Friend while scanning different sites looking for something to suit my needs! It is awesome and perfect for what I wanted it for!I can record the tracks using multiple instruments and play them back through my stereo system immediately afterward!Too many options to go over!If your looking for something similar,check it out! Its realy nice and pretty easy to operate!!!
I'm glad I happened upon this video because I am currently looking for a recorder for my guitar playing and this is just too much bullshit for me to handle ! I have a short fuse when it comes to this sort of stuff and I'd hate to have to smash it up against the wall because it is so complicated to operate ! Thanks for saving me the sorrow !
The primary reason I got the H4 is so I can quickly set up and record whenever I have a musically idea that I don't want to forget (I can forget what I played on one verse by the time I play the second verse).
2 Allowed 48k sample rates for doing audio for video.
3 The limiter was analog pre A/D conversion
It would be nice to (to record a/v of a concert) be able to set up near the soundboard, record the stereo mic as well as a stereo feed from the soundboard (at 48k) and later mix the two to taste, and then sync up the (multicam) video feeds. I don't think there is any comparable product that can do all this is there?
I own H4 for about 2 years. Despite its build quality, which might look cheap at first, it is a pretty cool recorder with a whole bunch of extra functions. Recording quality is really good. I also use 4 track recording function as well.
The menus are slightly awkward and the display is tiny, but when you get used to it, it's OK. Overall rating - 8/10. Excellent value for maney. Highly recommended
I cant believe you forced that sd card out though. you only have to push down slightly on the middle of it and it triggers a spring that pops it out a quarter of the way when you release the pressure. and makes it much easier to pull out. oh and it's mostly designed so that you cant really press to hard hope that helps.
so ive been using this H4 and i first recorded a bass line on the 4 track mode... i tried going back and putting a guitar part over it but ithe guitar wont even work.. it started working once but it cut out halfway through. and its not my guitar because i went to plug the bass back in and it didnt work either
This is the most informative review that I have seen. One thing that you did not show, is that the Zoom H4 makes a great interface for the computer. So you can use the onboard effects or any other guitar or music editing software that you want. The controls are complicated but like any tool there is a learning curve, so if you are not the type that is willing to READ the manual, get a model with less features, for less money. I subscribed to your channel and will look at all you reviews, THANKS.
That was a really neat review so thank you.. I just need a device to record basic sessions and it looks great.I chose it over the H2 because I'm thinking some time in the future I might start working out the features and using it for more advanced stuff.. You never know..
..hey guys...i have some cassettes i'm trying to transfer from a sony boom box to my H4 ..all i can do now is is tape via the mike on my H4...is there some way to do it via a line in or line out wire ...anybody know how to do that? ...thanks...
hmmm try pushing the SD card to eject! don't pull it!! I heard the card spring down to lock! SO I'M SURE if you push on it again is gonna spring out or eject!! Just like Digital Cameras.
I Would have liked to see (hear) a demonstration and he could have done this easily. Can I play guitar and sing? What would the sound quality be like? I hope someone else will do this for us.
Of course you can play guitar and sing. The sound quality is amazing. I'll upload something in the next few days, but trust me I've used it, and it's brilliant.
Great demo and thanks for the help. I've been considering buying the H4 to record brass instruments. Still looking at other devices, but for the price this looks the one.
i have the zoom h4. I need to connect my boom mic by XLR inputs in the h4. but when i do connect the mic with the XLR cables into the inputs i only get sound in either my left or right ear when i monitor it using the head phones.
can some one tell me how i can get sound in both right and left ears using my boom mic and XLR cables?
Your shotgun mic is mono so you need to change a setting in the menu so it records to 2 tracks. If you don't have this setting you need to upgrade the firmware.
I have had one of these for almost 18 months now and it gets used constantly. Band rehearsals, gigs, location recording, even mixdowns. No use for the 4 track option myself, but it is useful to know it is there. The battery comparment is not really that hard to get open & if you push the SD card in it dismounts easy, so not as difficult as the video makes out. It is better to get a good brand of SD. I learnt this after buying a cheap SD card and lost a valuable recording soon after I bought it.
If and when this has to go back to the factory expect at the very least 5 weeks of downtown, I sent mine in on Mar. 3 and as of today it is still not back, tech support is non existent.
Great review ...**BUT just one correction** when removing the memory card, you must push it in lightly and then it pops out. Do not use your nail to pull it like the video says. You WILL break it if you do.
just wanted to thank you for taking time to do a run through for us dummies who are less understanding of such devices.Also i have the same question as gunnar 1104 if you have a moment? Have a great weekend and thanks once again!
I agree with the good points. But here are my bad points:
1) Built cheap with light plastic... don't drop this thing.
2) The microphone cover (little black foam ball) often falls. You better find a way to stick it there.
3) Extremely sensitive to wind sounds and touching the device, even carefully, will cause garbage sound in your recording. THat is the most annoying part, since it is portable and built for field recording.
thanks, best review i've seen =) does anybody know if zoom plans on making a new version and getting rid of the bads, maybe redesigning the whole thing?
Great review. I just got the H4 and this helped me figure it out. I've already had a few people do double takes when they see it, since it totally looks like a taser.
Hi guys, i have a question about H4! I trying to figure out if i can use it as multitrack and assign different outs on different tracks. i mean can i use it as i little sequencer? i need to have a "Click" track going out on phone out and a "Base track" going out on LINE OUT. will I be able to do that with it? thank you
the H2 is far superior to this mic. it is only $179, and has 5.1 surround sound 4 channel capability at 24bit/96khz.
for environemnts, remote lavalier and line input work, the h2 is far superior to this. also the interface is much better in the h2, its simplified and really looks the same in the lcd as this.
i wish they would marry the h2 and the h4 honestly.
Obviously because of the fact that this video is in mono & compressed, it can't realy show the detail etc of the sound. But very good review, thank you!
I'm trying to find a similar device that could actually record 4 tracks at once - 2 line and 2 mics (meaning stereo mic + stereo line) - Does anybody know if such thing exist in nearby price range?
I was looking around at different sites that say that you can go and record your guitar and vocals etc then go and mix it, does it come with mixing software or will i have to go buy that to
Davids2666, I've got the Zoom HD8 but I am totaly lost with the Cubase, how do I record my tracks from the Zoom to Audacity, I can't get a good mix. I've been going through the headphone jack to audacity but it loses all of the mix. Any help on the Cubase, I may not have it downloaded properly. thanks
Hi Haley! To be honest i don't have a clue because im after a H4 and i'd never worked with cubase, just read that it comes with the H4. I don't know how the HD8 works but shouldn't you be able to record it on the device and then transfer it to the computer and put it in to Audacity after?
To get the unit to work with Vista, simply remove the batteries and power supply, then let the USB power the device. I did this, and everything works perfectly.
if my SD card is full (2 gigs) it can take 15-20 minutes.. which is long. But if you had an SD reader it is way faster, but the reader I have doesn't work well with the 2 gig card I have
don't forget to take out the batteries !!! (before you plug the ac) even if their dead it burns a fuse 100$ worth
found out the hard way xP
arinka2007 1 week ago
Zoom h4 on craigslist for 150$ :) I love this economy :)
vwlover94 1 week ago
Where did you buy the mount ? I bought the zoom h4 as a single piece with no accessories. Do you know where I can find a mount and windscreen?
3acortez 4 months ago
@3acortez it came with it.. as well as the foam. The newer h4's have the tripod socket directly in them (which is better trust me).
I'm not sure where you get the mount on its own.
Geardos 4 months ago
@3acortez best buy $ 25 Cheers!!!
jefffvideo1 3 weeks ago
@3acortez
Samsomtech has a few left
TinyUnits 1 week ago
@3acortez
samsontech
TinyUnits 1 week ago
This has been flagged as spam show
A few years ago two parents went out for dinner. A few hours later, the babysitter was calling to see if she could cover up the clown statue in the kids' room, the father said "Get the kids and get out of the house, we'll call the police, we don't have a clown statue". The "clown statue" was actually a killer that escaped from jail. If you don't post this on 10 videos tonight the clown will be in your bed at 3:00am with a chainsaw in his hand.
HugsAndKisses2010 5 months ago
i have a band with a drummer, bassist and guitarist
say we want to do a live recording of a jam or a song and we want to put 2 mics on the drums. can we plug in 2 mics into the inputs on the H4 and then still use the built in mics for the guitar/bass?
TheToastersOfficial 9 months ago
Comment removed
mandolinroad 7 months ago
Have you tried synching video with audio from your H4 yet?
I love my H4 but I found that its timebase is dreadfully inaccurate. To start with, I thought it was my camera at fault, but further testing revealed that it was the Zoom.
I later found out that this is a common issue. Another common issue is the level of unwanted noise (apparently something to do with the power supply).
It's a shame that Zoom crippled an otherwise superb piece of equipment by using shoddy components.
RoadRunnerLaser 10 months ago
also, didn't make it clear that you get two different menus depending on how you hit joystick menu button: pushing it directly in gives you different menu than one on this video with "project, file, mode, rec mode...etc". toggling the same menu joystick downwards, however, gives you the menu he shows mostly here with "mic, level, effect, phantom...etc".
lemayelaine 10 months ago
Very, very helpful video - thanks so much, geardos! note to other luddites : seems to have to be in 4 track recorder mode to have effects show up in input menu, which makes sense, but for us newbies, helpful to avoid wasting time trying to figure it out.
lemayelaine 10 months ago
Hi mate, are u happy with it? I heard is not very good,some problems that's why they made the H4n, is that right? I need a recorder for video with my DSLR but the H4n way too expensive,so I was looking at this one,however people scared me off
what u think?
thanks
hotgypsylips 1 year ago
50%off sale the Zoom H4n now
w w w . cheapbuy-online . c o m/zoom-h4n/
poundpit 1 year ago
Zoom h4 instructions a how to simply divide the tracks up and burn a cd are absolutely horrible - If you are not to good with computers do not buy this product- you'll be in for a world of hurt.
urheadonastick 1 year ago
Comment removed
urheadonastick 1 year ago
m-audio microtrack II ftw
PattyWhomperOFFICIAL 1 year ago
cool. good review! I'm gonna get one soon, this is what I needed.
OceanAndSilence 1 year ago
I hate the H4. Its very cheap in the build quality and the handling is a catastrophe.
Klaviermusik81 1 year ago
Can you download sound effect patches for this? Where?
maxpower789z 1 year ago
BY FAR!!!! the best review on this product. everyone else's vids just show the tech specs that are already posted on the site. Love the drums at the end. May really get this to record "found sounds" and musicians off the street.
PS does anyone know of a good review like this on the Alesis Protrack for the ipod
claudioaudio 1 year ago
zoom is a nice and cheap recorder
socialspidey 1 year ago
so if i wanted to record myself playing drums, which are very loud inside my house, would it be possible to mess around with the limiter setting and some of the other effect settings to get a fairly clean and crisp sound?
xkpx123 1 year ago
ive used both h4 and h2 and i honestly think the h2 is a much better buy,
StevenRHaz 1 year ago
This is the best review I've found on the net.
I'm going out right now to buy it.
Thank you! Thank you!
beauch 1 year ago
I have one and I abosl LOVE it. Great for bootlegging shows, recording 4 tracks and especially just sitting down and recording using the built in mics. On any WAV setting the sound is freakin amazing.
All my 2 cents of course.
deadluvva 1 year ago
How does it compare to the Tascam DR100?
outithewoods 1 year ago
i used the h4 to record my songs too.just type ashvind ramani if you wanna check em out.some rock and acoustics.
ashvindso 1 year ago
whats the frequency response on it???? :(
CreatureDrumNBass 2 years ago
I'm new too all the recording stuff, so I'd like to know. Would I be able to use the H4 to record my band play, and after all the editing and whatever, put it on a CD? Would the files be CD quality, or would it just be good for live recordings?
James6630 2 years ago
in theory it does better than cd quality (24bit 96khz).. but it is only a stereo recorder so you can't do real mixing of individual tracks with it.. You can only record 1 stereo or 2 mono tracks at a time
Geardos 2 years ago
@Geardos... but it does come with software that can help you complete your recording...you will need to record many takes to get the entire band...but yes you can do it with this recorder..!
squidskunk 2 years ago
@James6630 ...if you purchase the ZOOM H4n and not the H4...the H4n will record in multi track mode...4 tracks at a time...and more..
squidskunk 2 years ago
@James6630 cd quality? not if you mean a well produced and mastered cd no....its a completely different application.
This is for rough recordings or single instrument/ sound source recordings either for production or journalism. If you want to record a band you will need mics a sound card and a computer....as probably the cheapest option. Disregarding that to get a high quality recording you will need a lot mroe than that.
sacredgeometry 1 year ago
@James6630 that said it has two extra xlr inputs at the bottom so recording yeah I guess its competent for maybe small band or a solo musician.
sacredgeometry 1 year ago
@James6630 wait sorry I completely misread your comment, Yes I should be up to that although i wouldnt use something like this for a job like that. Its great for sampling but for professional recordings this would be a pain in the arse to use. Studio recordings are normally done in parts and having control of each tracks levels/insets/returns/ EQ etc is kind of helpful to do this you would need to be using it as a soundcard with a DAW...
sacredgeometry 1 year ago
@James6630 ..by this point you are bypassing the field recording section and just using it as a average sound card...its better to use a good sound card and a laptop if you need a portable solution. This would allow for more input possibilities and will generally give you better preamps/ sound quality etc.
sacredgeometry 1 year ago
@James6630
I just loaded a Music demo clip at my site
timwaterson on youtube wont me attach linK/
and for your band you can load the clips into cubase to edit
tim
TimWaterson 10 months ago
so wh\ats it like for musical instruments?
gluv1 2 years ago
This review is very informative. Does anyone know if I can purchase an H4N with warranties intact for about $200.00? Anyone with experience purchasing from Musician's Friend or ZZounds?
Judplay 2 years ago
I've recorded some indies films with this device, beautiful sound quality! ~ReyRey
NYRICANFL 2 years ago
The H2 doesn't have the same multi-track features as the H4. But if you can't get quality audio, why bother, IMHO? I use my H4 for podcasting, not multi-track editing. Personally, I find a computer (like a netbook) with editing software a lot easier to use for that sort of thing, anyway. My point is that the H4 's sound quality through the XLR inputs is a disappointment.
baccusboy 2 years ago
Love this unit. I recorded a kayak trip up the Outer Banks and it performed flawlessly. Great stereo separation. You could hear each paddle stroke on the right side, just like being there! Also captured some killer shows (with permission of course!)
davevad42 2 years ago
The hissing sound is not from cheap mics. Shure SM58, Shure SM7. It's because of the noisy (cheap) preamps that are part of the Zoom H4's XLR inputs. The XLR's are too noisy for pro work, and they don't provide much boost. Yes, my H4 is fully updated.. Add compression and your problems are compounded. And the peeping activity light sound really is a disappointment (although you can avoid this by running off of AC). The internal mics on the H4 are very clean, though.
baccusboy 2 years ago
Yeah, I agree. This little device will never replace any Pro hardware but is very handy for profesional practice and creation.
123ezm 2 years ago
So if I wanted a portable multi-track recorder and wasn't so picky on sound quality the H2 would be good enough?
heveinmusic 2 years ago
How do you convert the 4-tracks into one master track? If its impossible then mine is useless.. Does anybody know?
superbuttrapping12 2 years ago
The options on this device are limitless. After recording in 4 track mode there's an option to merge these tracks into one by clicking on the BOUNCE icon or you can edit these tracks before merging these.
123ezm 2 years ago
I am disgusted with my H4, compared to my former H2. The H4's XLR inputs are too dirty (noisy) for pro use. Also, the peeping sound coming from the activity light flashing during recording is a dealbreaker for anyone looking for near pro-quality audio. Do your research on these issues before purchasing!
baccusboy 2 years ago
Noise are caused by cheap mics, in my experience
123ezm 2 years ago
Hi!
I've had this device for half a year now, and it's one of the most useful and rewarding gadgets I ever bought. The sound quality for acoustic music or spoken word is near studio, for loud (band) recording it does it's job well.
The problems described with the lid and card are actually non-existent. You just need to know the trick! For the lid: open, then pull upward. For the card: PRESS DOWN! The spring system will push the card right out. No nails needed :)
Thx for the great review!
Vademan 2 years ago
Im sorry do any of you know how a bass would sound recorded with that or any portable recerder???
acidtangerine 2 years ago
Thank you for the great overview! Have you tried the new Zoom H4n. It seems from what I've been reading on the internet that the sound quality has improved from the H4. I'm wondering if it's really worth it changing equipments.
eddymontreal 2 years ago
very very helpful. Thanks!!! I need to get something I can take my short films and get my mic connected to something I can trust. Not worried about the controls...seems like it will get easier with practice. Great review. Keep it up...helps audio newbs like me alot!
Thanks!
rtkiiiprod 2 years ago
if i were to be recording a song withtwo guitars (distortion) one piano and one drum kit. would this thing be good for that/ could i just record and itll have great quality and i can just put it into audacity or some proggram and its as simple as that?
im a beginer at recording but i want this song that im making to have great quality. can someone give me alternatives on what kind of mics i should use or audi programs?
samdaman994 2 years ago
Is this thing better than BOSS Micro BR??? Anyone?
king666nothing 2 years ago
Can this work coming out of a DJ mixer? Can I record a set with it?
sovietonionnyc 2 years ago
yeah, it has 1/4 inch ins. You might need rca --> 1/4 inch adapters but those are easy to find.
Geardos 2 years ago
@sovietonionnyc Good for short films? Could I maybe record with 2 different mics at same time and have them as separate files or are they merged into 1 file?
skinVISIBLE 3 months ago
Excellent review. You've helped me out a lot as I wasn't sure about buying this, but looks like it will fit my needs perfectly.
Good video quality and appreciate that you offered up examples. Hearing is believing, so now I have a great indication of it's sound quality too. Well thought out review. (Most people on utube doing reviews just turn on a camera and don't think what they're going to talk about and blather on about pointless stuff)
dariunas 2 years ago
I bought an H4 about a year ago-its great for capturing my band playing-quick & easy. On board mics are ok & I'm glad it has something to use in a pinch but in general I use my own mics. I find that the conversion to digital is good enough - basically I can get very good recordings out of it with good mics. I've had 2 issues so far. Once I ran out of batteries while recording and I believe this ruined the 16GB card I had in and recently I find it having a hard time turning on with just batteries
boondawgle 2 years ago
For the price, I thinks its worth it. I would not use it for studio work but to quickly capture live stuff its nice. Yes, the menu system is a bit odd but after a little while you get used to it and its fine. I have not done much multi tracking on it but when I did it was not obvious how to move around and had to go to the manual- again I think you can get used to it. Also they have an H4n now that looks like it records 4 tracks at a time and might have better mics - not sure on the price. peace
boondawgle 2 years ago
would you say H4 or H4n is better than H 2? Because the price really matters. H 4 is more expensive than H 2 :/ I'm going to buy one of these (but i don't know which one h2 or h4?) to record my acoustic guitar plugged and unplugged. H4 has also some guitar effects included, right?
michauvon 2 years ago
I am not familiar with the H 2. The H4 does have built in effects appropriate for guitar.
boondawgle 2 years ago
How does this thing fare recording a drum kit?
scootypaul 2 years ago
Good review dude, I wanna record a Metallica concert, is the H4 a possibility??, and if it is... how is the best way to do it?
Funebresto 2 years ago
thx pal!
j've learned much more by your video than by my user manual!
ciao cheers from italy
spikelive 2 years ago
Great review. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
SkyJamMusicVideos 2 years ago
everytime I add an onboard effect, the volume rate on my input source reduces to an almost inaudible level, there's no way to control ANYTHING within the four track mode, and the built in pencil condensors pick up nothing but high end feedback....
I'de say the only thing this unit is good for is recording college philosophy lectures!
nameisrobertpaulsen 2 years ago
Comment removed
presleyj1 2 years ago
One of the big problem is "the battery sensor" , when i record in concert long time ( 1 hour , ex.) if the battery become empty the Zoom-H4 stop but without saving the big file !! I buy this becauze is great for record loud band in concert , i record on stage with this H4 in pocket via builtin microphones , The recorded sound is really good , For good level that have a 3 position switch for gain, + one digital seting for gain+ compressor or limiter and lowcut filter , Is very good.
StorytellerGuitar 2 years ago
would i be able to jus plug the left and right out puts of my alesis pa system into the two inputs on the zoom h4?
cjkayslay 2 years ago
I'm so confused by this product. :P
So, I could use the mics to record drums, then plug in another two mics to record guitars and vocals simultaneously?
Is that how it works?
thebazooka88 2 years ago
nope, you can use either the 2 inputs or the mics, not simlutaneously.
sandermeijer 2 years ago
Thanks! Very helpful, I ordered mine a few days ago.
GiantSteps92 2 years ago
I use one for 2 years now. It's prime advantage is the quality of the sound, even whith loud music. The second is the low price of the item.
On the other hand, you have a very poor interface design, small buttons, small screen and the menus are a nightmare.
Need a lot of practice at home before going out !
fran6ois 2 years ago
I like the Micro BR more
zerk666 2 years ago
so is this better for recording than the Boss Micro BR?
jjl5590 2 years ago
can u use on msn for liek a mic?
hedgey3000 2 years ago
can i plug the h4 and a digital camera into my laptop and record video and audio simulutaniously for a live bar gig?
joshuat762005 2 years ago
how do u record a 4 track? for example a drums, bass, guitar and vocals?
econgblues626 2 years ago
you should record 2 channels, then mix these 2 channels in 1 and record another 1 channel, then mix this last with the other 2 and then...
SammyAquinoR 2 years ago
my H4 sounded great but crapped out after about 6 months
livetubeamp57 2 years ago
what sould i buy fellas the h2 or h4?
etniesdc22 2 years ago
H4 ;)
woutvgelder 2 years ago
This has been flagged as spam show
despite everything going digital nowadays i think there will come a day when people will tire of its fakeness and unnaturalness and return to the warmth and genuineness of old analogue equipment
netgemiplayer 3 years ago
Great review. Thanks for posting it up.
grcanning 3 years ago
I love my ZooM H4......No Complaints.
JoeyJr702 3 years ago 2
I am too.
SammyAquinoR 2 years ago
is Sony PCM D50 better than this???
canitocome 3 years ago
The sound reproduction from this unit is amazing, i've had mine for a couple years and i wouldnt be without it for recording
MartinGuitarLover1 3 years ago
I own this recorder and it has been working fine for me. As the reiveiw said, it is really great if you want to "point and record". Its very handy for my practice sessions. Ive also gotten some good live recordings from it as well. I agree that it would be wonderful if allowed 4 track similtaneous recording though. Seeing as im a drummer this would do wonders for recoding my drumkit.
jazzcowboy18 3 years ago
Nice review - Thanks
grooverc 3 years ago
I found what I needed!The Boss Micro BR is perfect for my needs!I found it at Musician's Friend while scanning different sites looking for something to suit my needs! It is awesome and perfect for what I wanted it for!I can record the tracks using multiple instruments and play them back through my stereo system immediately afterward!Too many options to go over!If your looking for something similar,check it out! Its realy nice and pretty easy to operate!!!
11ranger413 3 years ago
I'm glad I happened upon this video because I am currently looking for a recorder for my guitar playing and this is just too much bullshit for me to handle ! I have a short fuse when it comes to this sort of stuff and I'd hate to have to smash it up against the wall because it is so complicated to operate ! Thanks for saving me the sorrow !
11ranger413 3 years ago
its not im a guitar player its great for it man, just use it as a audio interface and get a program like protools and record and edit
Ocelot911 3 years ago
The primary reason I got the H4 is so I can quickly set up and record whenever I have a musically idea that I don't want to forget (I can forget what I played on one verse by the time I play the second verse).
If you have the H4 in "stereo" mode...
To record:
1) power on
2) press red button twice to record
3) press red button again to stop recording
To play back what you just recorded:
1) press top of "joy-stick" button
2) press top again to stop
SinginTheBluesBlues 2 years ago
compared to the edirol r9?
jxw137 3 years ago
ore the h2?
blyndt 3 years ago
This would be perfect if:
1 It allowed 4 track simultaneous recording.
2 Allowed 48k sample rates for doing audio for video.
3 The limiter was analog pre A/D conversion
It would be nice to (to record a/v of a concert) be able to set up near the soundboard, record the stereo mic as well as a stereo feed from the soundboard (at 48k) and later mix the two to taste, and then sync up the (multicam) video feeds. I don't think there is any comparable product that can do all this is there?
NuisanceCrew 3 years ago
wow ur just an ass load of fun
guitarfreak7877 3 years ago
very good demonstration, thanks, i think to buy this model.
wendlinka 3 years ago
Thanks for the demo - what do you think of the H2?
omzzone 3 years ago
thanks a lot for your review! i just buyed it on amazone, and your video ashures me, cause i haven't receivede it yet. thanks!
zedeli 3 years ago
I own H4 for about 2 years. Despite its build quality, which might look cheap at first, it is a pretty cool recorder with a whole bunch of extra functions. Recording quality is really good. I also use 4 track recording function as well.
The menus are slightly awkward and the display is tiny, but when you get used to it, it's OK. Overall rating - 8/10. Excellent value for maney. Highly recommended
zilvinas1980 3 years ago
Does this device allow recording directly from the mixer using cords instead of having to use the mike?
ssudha17 3 years ago
Yes.
TimEngle 3 years ago
good info man.
I cant believe you forced that sd card out though. you only have to push down slightly on the middle of it and it triggers a spring that pops it out a quarter of the way when you release the pressure. and makes it much easier to pull out. oh and it's mostly designed so that you cant really press to hard hope that helps.
merlinlordofchaos 3 years ago
Do you know if the limiter can be adjusted?
online manual says it has on/off and -10/+10 but the guy at the music store could not find a way to change the limiting parameters.
Thanks
pirinst 3 years ago
i am thinking to get a portable digital recorder so if you have advice please leave comments
mattdj95 3 years ago
hey guys im hoping oneof you has an answer for me
so ive been using this H4 and i first recorded a bass line on the 4 track mode... i tried going back and putting a guitar part over it but ithe guitar wont even work.. it started working once but it cut out halfway through. and its not my guitar because i went to plug the bass back in and it didnt work either
JeremyDrums18 3 years ago
This is the most informative review that I have seen. One thing that you did not show, is that the Zoom H4 makes a great interface for the computer. So you can use the onboard effects or any other guitar or music editing software that you want. The controls are complicated but like any tool there is a learning curve, so if you are not the type that is willing to READ the manual, get a model with less features, for less money. I subscribed to your channel and will look at all you reviews, THANKS.
WaterRabbit 3 years ago
quality is awesome, can't go wrong with this!
To get a sony equivalent will cost you twice the price!
stormyandcold 3 years ago 2
excellent review! thx much ;-)
baronmorris 3 years ago
the card is really easy to get out.
all you do is push it in and a spring will push it out.
jellyfishslapper 3 years ago
That was a really neat review so thank you.. I just need a device to record basic sessions and it looks great.I chose it over the H2 because I'm thinking some time in the future I might start working out the features and using it for more advanced stuff.. You never know..
flippingcat 3 years ago
Nice review, i bought one... thanx for your time dude :o)
muzikman2008 3 years ago
Thanks,very good.
svenzia 3 years ago
..hey guys...i have some cassettes i'm trying to transfer from a sony boom box to my H4 ..all i can do now is is tape via the mike on my H4...is there some way to do it via a line in or line out wire ...anybody know how to do that? ...thanks...
dimtry19 3 years ago
EAZY!! Get a "Y" cable
Option 1: $10 to $20
Hosa Stereo mini 1/8" Male to Dual XLR Male Cables
Option 2: $9.00
Hosa Stereo 1/8" Male to Dual 1/4" Mono Male Cables.
Plug the stereo mini jack to the boombox and the other two mono L-R cables to the H4.
You can get it at SAM ASH, GUITAR CENTER, etc, etc... Price my vary according to the length of the cables
NYSUG 3 years ago
hmmm try pushing the SD card to eject! don't pull it!! I heard the card spring down to lock! SO I'M SURE if you push on it again is gonna spring out or eject!! Just like Digital Cameras.
NYSUG 3 years ago
I Would have liked to see (hear) a demonstration and he could have done this easily. Can I play guitar and sing? What would the sound quality be like? I hope someone else will do this for us.
celticcanoe 3 years ago
Of course you can play guitar and sing. The sound quality is amazing. I'll upload something in the next few days, but trust me I've used it, and it's brilliant.
ckly1 3 years ago
Great demo and thanks for the help. I've been considering buying the H4 to record brass instruments. Still looking at other devices, but for the price this looks the one.
tubaguybh 3 years ago
very useful for me to see the interface and to find out issues about the interface that the salespeople wont tell you.
thank you
clionamolins 3 years ago
HELP!
i have the zoom h4. I need to connect my boom mic by XLR inputs in the h4. but when i do connect the mic with the XLR cables into the inputs i only get sound in either my left or right ear when i monitor it using the head phones.
can some one tell me how i can get sound in both right and left ears using my boom mic and XLR cables?
HELP!!!!!
filmguy91 3 years ago
Your shotgun mic is mono so you need to change a setting in the menu so it records to 2 tracks. If you don't have this setting you need to upgrade the firmware.
parkvillepictures 3 years ago
I have had one of these for almost 18 months now and it gets used constantly. Band rehearsals, gigs, location recording, even mixdowns. No use for the 4 track option myself, but it is useful to know it is there. The battery comparment is not really that hard to get open & if you push the SD card in it dismounts easy, so not as difficult as the video makes out. It is better to get a good brand of SD. I learnt this after buying a cheap SD card and lost a valuable recording soon after I bought it.
ithinkiamsocool 3 years ago
Do the built in mics cope well with loud band recordings? I used to use a minidisc and even on the lowest setting, I'd get clipping happening.
QuinnBand 3 years ago
The H4's auto gain and limiter should help there. That's what the limiter is for, more so than for handling "strange noises" as the reviewer says.
Panglos 3 years ago
If and when this has to go back to the factory expect at the very least 5 weeks of downtown, I sent mine in on Mar. 3 and as of today it is still not back, tech support is non existent.
jhaley12 3 years ago
I've made some awesome `Studio` quality recordings with the Zoom ... its VERY flexible once you've learnt how to get the best form this superb gadgit.
Build could be better, and not all SD cards work, but regardless, its COOL.
I use mine for studio and video work even though I have a superb 24 bit studio it still plays as a useful note pad and guitar EX mod.
Rated *****
ProjectOverseer 3 years ago
good review, thanks, man.
whyitdoesntwork 3 years ago
An alternative to this is the Olympus LS-10 which I review here CwsYumXuCkQ
groovindj 3 years ago
this is awesome. i'm gonna buy one. thanks for reviewing it.
mtrezb 3 years ago
Can i record drums or guitar??
k0staZ 3 years ago
yeah. electrics plug straight into the 1/4 cum XLR input. acoustics are probably better off using the built in mic.
shredder27 3 years ago
Can i record drums or guitar??
k0staZ 3 years ago
drums wouldnt work for this unless you want a bad mix. i recommend using a drum machine and plugging the stereo out into both 1/4 inch inputs
shredder27 3 years ago
you could record drums if you plug in a stereo pair of mics
Geardos 3 years ago
Can i record drums or guitar??
k0staZ 3 years ago
Can i record drums or guitar??
k0staZ 3 years ago
Great review ...**BUT just one correction** when removing the memory card, you must push it in lightly and then it pops out. Do not use your nail to pull it like the video says. You WILL break it if you do.
jloprodigy 3 years ago 2
just wanted to thank you for taking time to do a run through for us dummies who are less understanding of such devices.Also i have the same question as gunnar 1104 if you have a moment? Have a great weekend and thanks once again!
willowdal 3 years ago
great review
i want one
thanks for posting
mikebuddy1 3 years ago
Nice review. Thanks for sharing.
LuminolBlue 3 years ago
I agree with the good points. But here are my bad points:
1) Built cheap with light plastic... don't drop this thing.
2) The microphone cover (little black foam ball) often falls. You better find a way to stick it there.
3) Extremely sensitive to wind sounds and touching the device, even carefully, will cause garbage sound in your recording. THat is the most annoying part, since it is portable and built for field recording.
gogome2 3 years ago
Are overdubs easy?
When you plug in other mics does it still use the mics on the device?
how does it play while your overdubbing, so you can hear what your playing over?
gunnar1104 3 years ago
Easy once you do it the first time Tracks are controlled with buttons that shows the status either off play or record one two three or four at once
123ezm 3 years ago
You can use the built-in mics or external mics (or external line-in) but not both at the same time.
SinginTheBluesBlues 2 years ago
thanks, best review i've seen =) does anybody know if zoom plans on making a new version and getting rid of the bads, maybe redesigning the whole thing?
nickleus1977 3 years ago
Great review. I just got the H4 and this helped me figure it out. I've already had a few people do double takes when they see it, since it totally looks like a taser.
sfbobzilla 3 years ago
Excellent review... Seeing the features and the menus as well as hearing some of the stuff is better than all the reviews I've read. Thanks!
Seamonkey78704 3 years ago
Hi guys, i have a question about H4! I trying to figure out if i can use it as multitrack and assign different outs on different tracks. i mean can i use it as i little sequencer? i need to have a "Click" track going out on phone out and a "Base track" going out on LINE OUT. will I be able to do that with it? thank you
analogicoperplesso 3 years ago
I was just about to buy one of these - thanks for this review!
lumirees 4 years ago
the H2 is far superior to this mic. it is only $179, and has 5.1 surround sound 4 channel capability at 24bit/96khz.
for environemnts, remote lavalier and line input work, the h2 is far superior to this. also the interface is much better in the h2, its simplified and really looks the same in the lcd as this.
i wish they would marry the h2 and the h4 honestly.
darknkreepy 4 years ago
Obviously because of the fact that this video is in mono & compressed, it can't realy show the detail etc of the sound. But very good review, thank you!
I'm trying to find a similar device that could actually record 4 tracks at once - 2 line and 2 mics (meaning stereo mic + stereo line) - Does anybody know if such thing exist in nearby price range?
zizititi 4 years ago
very funny ......baby crying then the bad stuff (the tazer part )...i had to mention that...thanks
motomoto15 4 years ago
I was looking around at different sites that say that you can go and record your guitar and vocals etc then go and mix it, does it come with mixing software or will i have to go buy that to
Sinnerpal 4 years ago
Cubase comes with it :D
Davids2666 4 years ago
Davids2666, I've got the Zoom HD8 but I am totaly lost with the Cubase, how do I record my tracks from the Zoom to Audacity, I can't get a good mix. I've been going through the headphone jack to audacity but it loses all of the mix. Any help on the Cubase, I may not have it downloaded properly. thanks
jhaley12 4 years ago
Hi Haley! To be honest i don't have a clue because im after a H4 and i'd never worked with cubase, just read that it comes with the H4. I don't know how the HD8 works but shouldn't you be able to record it on the device and then transfer it to the computer and put it in to Audacity after?
Davids2666 4 years ago
I'm on the verge of buying a Zoom HD8CD, can ANYONE tell me anything about this unit, especially a musician who has bought it, thanks.
jhaley12 4 years ago
if you write, its amazing. take it anywhere, record any idea on the spur of the moment.
also can be used for real, good quality recordings. great machine.
skippyrandom 4 years ago
HEADS UP:
To get the unit to work with Vista, simply remove the batteries and power supply, then let the USB power the device. I did this, and everything works perfectly.
Cheers,
nickeax.
nickeax 4 years ago
I just bought the H4 and I have windows Vista so I'm gonna try your approach. My question is, can you use Cubase along with cakewalk's Sonar 6?
schenkmore0 4 years ago
Thanks for the review. I disagree that the interface is difficult to use though. For me, it's very quick and intuitive.
nickeax 4 years ago
shiet.. very nice device.. awesmome
straizys 4 years ago
Thanks for this great review. Much appreciated. Of course you never mentioned how great it will be to, cough-----bootleg concerts----cough :-)
deadluvva 4 years ago
I've used it for that (although I had permission), and it worked very well, but you wouldn't want a security guard to confiscate something like that.
Geardos 4 years ago
Good point. But then again I am pretty crafty. And this thing is pretty small. Duct tape the lights etc etc :-)
deadluvva 4 years ago
thanks for the review
notabando 4 years ago
how long does it take to download the files onto the computer?
adolem 4 years ago
if my SD card is full (2 gigs) it can take 15-20 minutes.. which is long. But if you had an SD reader it is way faster, but the reader I have doesn't work well with the 2 gig card I have
Geardos 4 years ago
that looks deadly, great review
Kamen0 4 years ago
i have one of these, got it for under €200, its amazing, if anyone is tinking about buying one, you really should
toolrockhard 4 years ago
very useful review, thanks
joculator 4 years ago
good detailed review
Duffy01 4 years ago