Zoom H4 User Manual

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Page 1

Operation Manual

English

Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited.

Page 2

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS / Usage Precautions

• High humidity or moisture

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

In this manual, symbols are used to highlight warnings and cautions for you to read so that accidents can be prevented. The meanings of these symbols are as follows:

This symbol indicates explanations about extremely dangerous matters. If users ignore this symbol and handle the device the wrong way, serious injury or

arning

death could result.

This symbol indicates explanations about dangerous matters. If users ignore this symbol and handle the device the wrong way, bodily injury and damage to

Caution

the equipment could result.

Please observe the following safety tips and precautions to ensure hazard-free use of the H4.

Power requirements

Since power consumption of this unit is fairly high, we

arning

recommend the use of an AC adapter whenever possible. When powering the unit from batteries, use only alkaline types.

[AC adapter operation]

• Be sure to use only an AC adapter which supplies 9 V DC, 300 mA and is equipped with a "center minus" plug (Zoom AD-0006). The use of an adapter other than the speciﬁed type may damage the unit and pose a safety hazard.

• Connect the AC adapter only to an AC outlet that supplies the rated voltage required by the adapter.

• When disconnecting the AC adapter from the AC outlet, always grasp the adapter itself and do not pull at the cable.

• During lightning or when not using the unit for an extended period, disconnect the AC adapter from the AC outlet.

[Battery operation]

• Use two conventional IEC R6 (size AA) batteries (alkaline).

• The H4 cannot be used for recharging.

•Pay close attention to the labelling of the battery to make sure you choose the correct type.

• When not using the unit for an extended period, remove the batteries from the unit.

• If battery leakage has occurred, wipe the battery compartment and the battery terminals carefully to remove all remnants of battery ﬂuid.

• While using the unit, the battery compartment cover should be closed.

Environment

To prevent the risk of ﬁre, electric shock or

arning

malfunction, avoid using your H4 in environments where it will be exposed to:

• Extreme temperatures

• Heat sources such as radiators or stoves

• Excessive dust or sand

• Excessive vibration or shock

Handling

•Never place objects ﬁlled with liquids, such as vases, on

arning

the H4 since this can cause electric shock.

• Do not place naked ﬂame sources, such as lighted candles, on the H4 since this can cause ﬁre.

• The H4 is a precision instrument. Do not exert undue pressure on the keys and other controls. Also take care not

Caution

to drop the unit, and do not subject it to shock or excessive pressure.

•Take care that no foreign objects (coins or pins etc.) or liquids can enter the unit.

Connecting cables and input and output jacks

Caution

You should always turn off the power to the H4 and all other equipment before connecting or disconnecting any cables. Also make sure to disconnect all connection cables and the power cord before moving the H4.

Alterations

Never open the case of the H4 or attempt to modify the

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product in any way since this can result in damage to the unit.

Volume

Do not use the H4 at a loud volume for a long time

Caution

since this can cause hearing impairment.

Usage Precautions

Electrical interference

For safety considerations, the H4 has been designed to provide maximum protection against the emission of electromagnetic radiation from inside the device, and protection from external interference. However, equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves should not be placed near the H4, as the possibility of interference cannot be ruled out entirely.

With any type of digital control device, the H4 included, electromagnetic interference can cause malfunctioning and can corrupt or destroy data. Care should be taken to minimize the risk of damage.

Cleaning

Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the H4. If necessary, slightly moisten the cloth. Do not use abrasive cleanser, wax, or solvents (such as paint thinner or cleaning alcohol), since these may dull the ﬁnish or damage the surface.

Please keep this manual in a convenient place for future reference.

ZOOM H4

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Contents

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS / Usage

Precautions ............................................2

Overview ...................................................5

Introducing the H4 ...................................6

Stereo Mode and 4-Track Mode ...........6

Mixer Functions .....................................7

Effects ....................................................7

Parts of the H4 .........................................8

Getting Connected .................................10

About SD Cards ......................................10

Operation on Battery Power .................11

Power On/Off ..........................................11

Power-on .............................................11

Power-off .............................................11

Recording ...............................................12

Setup ....................................................12

Recording steps ..................................12

Quick Guide 1

Stereo mode basic operation..............14

Preparations before recording ............14

Starting the H4 ....................................... 14

Adjusting the input sensitivity/recording

level ..................................................... 14

Using effects ........................................ 16

Recording ............................................17

Selecting a file for playback ................... 18

Quick Guide 2

4-track mode basic operation ............19

Step 1: Preparations ............................19

Switch to 4-track mode .......................... 19

Creating a new project ........................... 20

Making metronome settings ..................20

Step 2: Recording the first track ......... 21

Selecting the input source/recording

track ..................................................... 21

Adjusting the input sensitivity/recording

level ..................................................... 22

Selecting an effect patch .......................24

Recording/Playback ............................... 25

Step 3: Add more tracks ..................... 26

Preparations ........................................... 26

Recording/Playback ............................... 26

Step 4: Mixing and bounce ................. 27

Mixing .................................................... 27

Bounce ................................................... 28

Stereo Mode .......................................... 30

What is stereo mode? ......................... 30

Switching to stereo mode ................... 30

Recording in stereo mode ..................31

Select input source ................................ 31

Adjust recording level ............................ 31

Automatic adjustment of recording level

(Auto gain function) .............................33

Select recording format ......................... 34

Record ................................................... 35

Using the monitor function .................... 36

Playback in stereo mode .................... 36

Selecting a file for playback ................... 36

Locating a point in a recording

(Locate) ................................................ 37

Playing a specified section repeatedly

(A-B repeat) ........................................ 38

4-Track Mode ......................................... 39

What is 4-track mode? ........................ 39

Switching to 4-track mode ................. 39

Selecting the recording mode ............ 40

About the recording mode ..................... 40

Selecting the recording mode ................ 41

Operation differences according to

recording mode ................................... 41

Recorder .............................................. 42

Selecting files for playback .................... 42

Using the locate function and A-B

repeat function in 4-track mode .......... 43

Re-recording only a specified region

(punch-in/out function) ........................ 43

Combining multiple tracks on one file

(bounce function) ................................. 45

Mixer .................................................... 47

About the mixer in 4-track mode ........... 47

Selecting the input source ..................... 48

Adjusting the recording level ................. 48

Selecting the recording track ................. 50

Using the monitor function .................... 51

4-track mixing (volume/panning) ........... 51

Linking two tracks (stereo link) .............. 53

ZOOM H4

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Contents

Projects................................................ 54

What is a project? ...................................54

Basic project operations .........................54

Creating a new project ...........................55

Selecting a project ..................................55

Changing a project name .......................56

Copying a project ...................................57

Deleting a project ...................................57

Write-protecting a project ......................58

Tuner ....................................................59

Using the chromatic tuner ......................59

Using other tuner types ..........................60

Effects .....................................................62

About Effects ....................................... 62

Using effects in stereo mode ..............62

Using effects in 4-track mode .............64

About effect input/output .......................64

Selecting a patch ....................................64

Editing a patch ........................................65

Saving a patch ........................................67

Assigning a name to a patch ..................68

Importing a patch ...................................69

Managing Recorded Files ..................... 71

About recorded files ............................71

Basic file operations ............................71

Renaming a file ....................................72

Deleting a file ....................................... 73

Copying a file (4-track mode only) ...... 73

Importing a file (4-track mode only) ....74

Checking the file size ..........................76

Miscellaneous Settings ......................... 77

Metronome setting ..............................77

Controlling the display

contrast/backlight .............................78

Turning the phantom power supply

on/off .................................................79

Controlling the key-hold function .......79

Using the USB function .......................80

Using the H4 as audio interface for a

computer ..............................................80

Using the H4 as an SD card reader ........82

SD card operations ..............................83

Checking available space on the SD

card ......................................................83

Initializing an SD card .............................84

About the software version .................84

Specifications .........................................86

Troubleshooting .....................................88

Problems during recording/

playback ............................................ 88

Other problems ................................... 88

Effect Types and Parameters ................89

Effect types and parameters in

4-track mode ..................................... 89

PREAMP module ....................................89

EFX module ............................................ 91

Effect types in stereo mode ................ 95

MIC MODEL module ..............................95

COMP/LIMIT module ..............................95

H4 Patch List ..........................................96

Contents of SD Card ..............................97

INDEX ......................................................98

• Windows and Windows XP are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.

• Macintosh and MacOS are registered trademarks of Apple Computer.

• The SD symbol is a trademark.

• All other trademarks, product names, and company names mentioned in this documentation are the property of their respective owners.

• Manufacturer names and product names mentioned in this documentation are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. The names are used only to illustrate sonic characteristics and do not indicate any afﬁliation with ZOOM CORPORATION.

ZOOM H4

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Overview

Thank you for selecting the "

"). The H4 is an attractive product with the following features.

●

All-in-one type handy recorder

In a compact package weighing a mere 190 grams, the H4 offers a high-performance stereo condenser mic, SD card recorder, mixer, effect section, metronome, and more. Easily record and produce music on the go, wherever you are.

●

Applications range from field recording to multi-track use

The H4 offers a choice of stereo mode for instant stereo recording, and 4-track mode which allows simultaneous playback of four tracks and recording of two tracks. Use the unit in the field to capture your melody ideas, quickly record a band, or to expand your sound collection. Or use it as a multi-track recorder to overdub instruments and vocals.

●

Convenient bounce function

Once you have recorded four tracks, you can bounce the contents onto a stereo or mono file. By assigning the resulting file to a recorder track, you can then continue to add more instrument or vocal parts using the remaining tracks. Recorded files can also be copied to a computer for further processing or burning onto an audio CD.

●

Two types of effects built in

The H4 comes with two built-in effect modules. The PREAMP module simulates the characteristics of famous guitar and bass amps as well as various mic preamps. The EFX module offers chorus and other modulation effects and spatial effects such as delay. Since the input signal can be effect processed before recording, all you need to do is directly hook up your guitar and bass and you're in business.

●

Functions as audio interface or SD card reader for a computer

The USB port of the H4 lets you easily connect the unit to a computer, for use as an audio interface with built-in effects. (Effects can only be used when the sampling rate is 44.1 kHz.) Another option is to use the H4 as an SD card reader, to quickly transfer files for import into DAW software or for creating audio CDs.

●

Built-in tuner and metronome

The integrated tuner not only allows chromatic tuning but also supports 7-string guitar, 5-string bass and other unconventional tunings. The metronome function is great when doing multitrack recordings or for use during practice sessions.

Please take the time to read this manual carefully to get the most out of the unit and to ensure optimum performance and reliability. Keep this manual at hand for future reference.

ZOOM Handy Recorder H4

(subsequently referred to simply as the

ZOOM H4

Page 6

Introducing the H4

This section explains the main features and functions of the H4.

In 4-track mode, the H4 functions as a multi-

Stereo Mode and 4-Track Mode

The H4 has two main operation modes, namely "stereo mode" and "4-track mode". You select one of these modes when using the unit.

In stereo mode, two signals either from the builtin stereo mic or from the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks are used as recording sources to create a stereo file on the SD card. This is great for making full-fledged recordings in the field or to capture the performance of a band in one go. It also allows the H4 to be used as voice recorder that's ready at a moment's notice.

Stereo mode

Built-in stereo mic

[INPUT 1] jack [INPUT 2] jack

Input 1

Input 2

Recorder

L stereo track

R stereo track

track recorder. This mode allows simultaneous recording of 2 tracks and simultaneous playback of 4 tracks. This lets you do things such as creating a backing of drum machine and bass and then produce a guitar or vocal overlay in the studio. After recording all four tracks, the individual volume and panning (left/right positioning) of each track can be adjusted for playback, and a stereo or mono file can be created on the SD card. By assigning the resulting file to a particular track, you can free up the remaining tracks to record more instruments or vocals to create an overlay.

4-track mode

Built-in stereo mic

[INPUT 1] jack [INPUT 2] jack

Input 1

Input 2

Input mixer

Recorder

Track 1

Track 2

Track 3 Track 4

You can select either WAV or MP3 as recording format, and you can change the sampling rate and bit rate as required. The recorded stereo files are saved in a dedicated folder (hierarchical unit) for the stereo mode. These files can be sent to a computer via the USB port, for burning onto CDR/RW discs or for processing with DAW software.

Files recorded in stereo mode are saved here

SD card

Dedicated stereo mode folder

The recording format is fixed to WAV (sampling rate 44.1 kHz/bit rate 16 bit). The individual files created by recording in 4-track mode are saved on the SD card in separate folders for each project.

SD card

Project 1 folder

Project 2 folder

Project 3 folder

Files recorded in 4-track mode for project 2 are saved here

ZOOM H4

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Mixer Functions

When the H4 is operating in 4-track mode, two kinds of mixers can be used, namely the input mixer and track mixer.

Input 1

Input 2

Input mixer

(for volume and panning)

Tra ck 1 Tra ck 2 Tra ck 3 Tra ck 4

Recorder

Track mixer

Introducing the H4

The effect section of the H4 offers multiple single effects (effect modules) such as compressor and preamp. The available effect module configuration and input/output specifications depend on the operation mode.

In stereo mode, the two effect modules MIC MODEL and COMP/LIMIT can be used. (The MIC MODEL module can be used only if the built-in stereo mic is selected as input source.) In this mode, both effect input and effect output are in stereo.

Stereo mode module configuration

(Stereo input → Stereo output)

[LINE OUTPUT] jack

The input mixer takes up to two signals from the built-in stereo mic or the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks and sends them on in mixed form or separately to the recorder tracks. The track mixer adjusts the volume and panning/ balance of each signal recorded on the four tracks and produces a stereo output signal.

Effects

The H4 also incorporates an effect section immediately after the input that can be used to process the input signal before recording it on the tracks.

Stereo mode

Input 1

Input 2

Effect section

4-track mode

Input 1

Input 2

Input mixer

Effect section

Recorder

L stereo track

R stereo track

Recorder

Track 1

Track 2

Track 3 Track 4

MIC MODEL COMP/LIMIT

In 4-track mode, the two effect modules PREAMP and EFX can be used. In this mode, the effect input is monaural and the effect output is in stereo. (If only one track is selected as recording target, the signal will be combined to mono immediately after the effect section.)

4-track mode module configuration

(Mono input → Stereo output)

PREAMP EFX

ZOOM H4

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Parts of the H4

Left side panel

[LINE OUTPUT]

jack

[PHONES]

jack

[PHONES LEVEL]

knob

[POWER]

switch

[USB]

port

Top panel

Built-in stereo mic

[REC] key

Display

TRACK

[1] – [4] keys

[MENU] key

[MODE]

indicator

[ACCESS]

indicator

Rear panel

[INPUT 1] jack

[DC IN] jack

[INPUT 2] jack

ZOOM H4

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(1)

Slide the section with

your index finger to release the lock.

(2) With the lock released,

grasp the cover with your thumb and middle finger and lift it.

Parts of the H4

(3) Flip the cover open

in the forward direction.

(1)

Battery compartment cover

Jog dial

[MIC GAIN] switch

[INPUT 2 GAIN] switch

(2)

Opening the battery compartment cover

(3)

(1)

(2)

(3)

[SD CARD] slot

(2)

Right side panel

ZOOM H4

[INPUT 1 GAIN] switch

Battery Battery

Front panel

Page 10

Getting Connected

To monitor the output of the H4 with a stereo audio system, use a Y cable connected to the [LINE OUTPUT] jack.

To operate the H4 on AC power, be sure to use only the supplied AC adapter (ZOOM AD-0006). Using a different adapter can lead to damage.

H4 rear panel

Bass

Guitar

Mic

The [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks can be used to connect external equipment such as a mic, bass, guitar, or keyboard.

About SD Cards

Monitor system

AC adapter

H4 side panel

To monitor the output of the H4 with headphones, connect them to the [PHONES] jack and adjust the listening level with the [PHONES LEVEL] knob. This jack carries the same signal as the [LINE OUTPUT] jack.

Headphones

Computer

When the H4 is connected to a computer via the [USB] port, it can be used as audio interface or SD card reader for the computer, and audio files stored on the SD card in the H4 can be transferred to the computer.

Keyboard

For using the H4, an SD card is required as a recording medium. Before turning power to the H4 on, insert the card into the [SD CARD] slot as shown in the illustration below. Be sure to push the card fully into the slot. To remove the card, first push it into the slot to disengage and then

pull it out.

[SD CARD] slot

SD card

NOTE

• If the SD card is inserted with wrong orientation, it will not go all the way into the slot.

• Never insert or remove the SD card while power to the H4 is on. Otherwise data can be destroyed.

•You can use off-the-shelf SD cards with a capacity from 16 MB to 2 GB.

•To use a SD card that has previously been initialized in a computer or digital camera or similar, be sure to format in the H4 ﬁrst

p. 84).

(

→

• If an operation requiring an SD card is attempted while no SD card is inserted, the indication "No Card" appears.

ZOOM H4

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Operation on Battery Power

The H4 can be powered from batteries which must be purchased separately. Insert the batteries as follows.

Open the battery compartment cover as described on page 9.

Insert two IEC R6 (size AA) batteries.

Close the battery compartment cover.

NOTE

• When the unit is operated on batteries, the

Power On/Off

Use the following procedure to turn the H4 on and off.

Power-on

Verify that power to the H4 and any peripheral equipment is off.

Turn down the volume control on connected instruments, the H4, and the monitoring system.

2.Insert the SD card into the [SD CARD] slot (

Set the [POWER] switch on the H4 to On.

NOTE

• If the indication "No Card" appears at startup,

the H4 has not detected an SD card. Verify that an SD card is correctly inserted.

• If the indication "Format Card?" appears at

startup, the H4 has detected that the SD card is not initialized. To execute the initialization process, bring the cursor to the OK button and press the jog dial.

4.Turn power to other equipment on in the order connected instruments

p. 10).

→

indication "Low Battery!" will appear on the display when the batteries are exhausted. In this case, turn the unit off and replace the batteries as soon as possible with fresh ones.

• When the unit is operated on batteries, you should not open the battery compartment cover while power is on. Otherwise the sudden interruption of power may lead to data loss.

monitoring system.

→

Power-off

Turn power to other equipment off in the order monitoring system connected instruments.

Set the [POWER] switch on the H4

to Off.

The message "GoodBye See You!" is shown on the display and the H4 is turned off. Information about current operations is automatically saved on the SD card.

NOTE

• Always use the [POWER] switch to turn the unit on and off.

• Never disconnect or connect the AC adapter while power is on. Otherwise data loss may occur.

• In particular, do not plug in or unplug the AC adapter while the [ACCESS] indicator is lit. Otherwise data can be destroyed.

→

ZOOM H4

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Recording

This section shows how you can try out the H4 straight away by doing some recording. The steps are for using the stereo mode with the built-in stereo mic.

pick up the sound of footsteps, drum vibrations

Setup

To record on-mic, place the sound source at about 30 to 50 centimeters from the H4.

etc. You should therefore place the H4 on a table or a chair, or use a tripod with the supplied adapter.

On-mic recording

Sound source

About 30 – 50 cm

To record off-mic, the sound source should be within the range of the two intersecting lines from the two built-in mics.

Off-mic recording

Built-in stereo mic

Recording steps

Turn power to the H4 on.

The [MODE] indicator lights up. Verify that the H4 is set to stereo mode.

Stereo mode

Lit

If the [MODE] indicator is out, the H4 is in 4-track mode. Switch it to stereo mode (

p. 30).

→

Verify that the following indication is shown on the display.

Built-in stereo mic

If the H4 is placed directly on the floor, it may

This is the top screen for the stereo mode. If another screen is shown, repeatedly press the center of the [MENU] key until the above screen appears.

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Use the TRACK [1] – [4] keys to select the recording format.

The recording format selected by each key is as shown below. Recording quality and file size decrease from top to bottom.

●

[MIC GAIN] switch setting

Recording

TRACK [1] key

WAV (96 kHz)

TRACK [2] key

WAV (48 kHz)

TRACK [3] key

WAV (44.1 kHz)

TRACK [4] key

MP3 (44.1 kHz)

Press the key for the desired format and sampling rate, so that the key lights up. Then press the center of the [MENU] key repeatedly until to return to the top screen of the stereo mode.

HINT

If required, you can also change the bit rate (resolution) of the recording format.

Press the [REC] key.

The [REC] key flashes and the H4 goes into record standby mode. The display now operates as a level meter showing the input level from the built-in stereo mic. The input signal can be monitored via the [LINE OUTPUT] jack and [PHONES] jack.

Setting Application

For on-mic recording of instruments or single-session recording of a band

performance. For recording of acoustic guitar and

other instruments with low volume. Off-mic recording setting, mostly for use

in the ﬁeld.

HINT

You can fine adjust the recording level manually or automatically (

NOTE

If the level meter does not register at all when the unit is pointed towards the sound source and the unit shows the above screen, the [INPUT 1]/ [INPUT 2] jacks may be selected as input source. Switch the input source to the built-in stereo mic

p. 31).

(

→

Press the [REC] key once more.

The [REC] key lights up and recording starts.

To stop recording, press the [REC]

key or press the top (@ [MENU] key.

p. 31, 33).

→

) of the

Input level

To obtain optimum volume levels, set the [MIC GAIN] switch so that the meter indication on the display stays just below 0.

ZOOM H4

To check the recorded content,

press the top (@

The recorded content is played back via the [LINE OUTPUT] jack and [PHONES] jack.

) of the [MENU] key.

Page 14

Quick Guide 1

This section explains the basics of using the unit in stereo mode. As an example, it shows how to record a band performance in one go with the built-in stereo mic.

Stereo mode basic operation

Preparations before recording

Starting the H4

Connect the monitor system to the

H4, and turn power on in the order H4

→

monitor system.

Verify that the [MODE] indicator is lit.

Stereo mode

Lit

If the [MODE] indicator is out, the H4 is in 4track mode. Switch it to stereo mode (

→

p. 30).

Adjusting the input sensitivity/ recording level

To record the input signal with optimum quality, the input sensitivity and recording level must be adjusted correctly.

◆

Input sensitivity adjustment

The input sensitivity adjustment controls the input level to the analog section, to ensure that the signal from the built-in stereo mic or the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks can be handled by the H4 at an appropriate level.

Use the [MIC GAIN] switch on the right side panel to adjust the input sensitivity (

◆

Recording level adjustment

The recording level adjustment controls the gain of the signal to be recorded by the recorder, in other words it sets the input level to the digital section of the H4. The method described in this section uses the auto gain function to detect the level and make the adjustment automatically.

→

page 13).

The display shows the stereo mode top screen. If another screen is shown, press the center of the [MENU] key repeatedly to bring up the screen shown above.

At the stereo mode top screen, press the bottom of the [MENU] key.

The [MENU] key serves for calling up various menus of the H4, and it also functions as the recorder transport key pad. It works differently depending on whether the top, bottom, left, right, or center portion of the key is pressed (see illustration on next page). When you press the bottom (INPUT MENU) of

ZOOM H4

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[MENU] key functions in stereo mode

Press top (@) of [MENU] key

Start/stop recorder playback.

Quick Guide 1

Stereo mode basic operation

Hold down left part (U) of [MENU] key

Fast-reverse from current point in 1-second increments.

Press left part (U) of [MENU] key

Return counter to zero. If counter is at zero, select previous file.

Press center of [MENU] key

Display main menu for various settings (or return to immediately preceding screen).

the [MENU] key at the top screen of the stereo mode, the following INPUT menu appears.

Cursor

This screen lets you select the input source and fine-adjust the input level. The “ ” symbol on the screen is called the cursor. It indicates which item is currently selected for an operation.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to the “AUTO GAIN” item, then press the jog dial inwards.

The jog dial on the right side panel allows the following two actions.

●

Move up/down

Pushing the jog dial up or

Move up/down

down serves to move the cursor on the screen and to change setting values.

●

Press

Pushing the jog dial inwards accepts a selected item or a changed setting.

Hold down right part (I) of [MENU] key

Fast-forward from current point in 1-second increments.

Press right part (I) of [MENU] key

Select next file.

Press bottom (INPUT MENU) of [MENU] key

Display INPUT menu for making various input related settings.

When you move the jog dial up/down at the above screen and bring the cursor to “AUTO GAIN”, the AUTO GAIN function is selected as setting item. In this condition, pressing the jog dial enables switching the auto gain function between on and off.

Move the jog dial up/down to display

“ON”. Then press the jog dial.

The auto gain function is now on.

HINT

• It is also possible to set the recording level manually (

• The auto gain function adjusts the input level to the digital section. If using the function does not result in a suitable input level, you should adjust the input sensitivity (analog level) (

→

p. 31).

→

p. 13).

Press the center of the [MENU] key to return to the stereo mode top screen.

ZOOM H4

Page 16

Quick Guide 1

Stereo mode basic operation

At the stereo mode top screen, press the [REC] key.

The [REC] key flashes, and the recorder is now in the standby condition. When the auto gain function is enabled, the indication “REC LEVEL SCANNING...” will be shown when you switch the recorder to standby.

Point the mic(s) at the performers and have them play at the loudest level.

The H4 detects the level of the currently selected input source and adjusts the recording level accordingly. If the band you are recording does not play louder than during this test, the entire recording should be possible without distortion.

Currently selected input source

Automatically set recording level

change the characteristics of the built-in stereo mic.

HINT

The mic simulation effects are available only when using the built-in stereo mic.

At the stereo mode top screen, press the bottom of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears.

Bring the cursor to the “COMP/

LIMIT” item and press the jog dial.

The COMP/LIMIT (compressor/limiter) module settings can now be made.

To cancel the recording standby

condition, press the left part (U right part (I [MENU] key.

), or top (@

) of the

Using effects

In stereo mode, you can use various effects of the H4. The compressor/limiter module is useful to prevent distortion due to sudden volume peaks and to keep even low sounds at a suitable level. The sound character of the built-in stereo mic can be altered using a number of mic simulation effects. This section describes how to use the effect section to adjust the input signal level and

Move the jog dial up/down to select

one of the following settings.

• OFF (default)

The COMP/LIMIT module is off.

• COMP

The compressor which attenuates high-level signals and boosts low-level signals is active.

• LIMIT

The limiter which attenuates high-level signals that exceed a certain threshold is active.

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Quick Guide 1

Stereo mode basic operation

HINT

To check the action of the effect, press the [REC] key to set the H4 to the recording standby condition, and then monitor the signal at the [LINE OUTPUT] or [PHONES] jack while the instruments to record are being played.

To accept the settings for the COMP/ LIMIT module, press the jog dial.

Bring the cursor to the “MIC MODEL” item and press the jog dial.

If the built-in stereo mic is selected as input source, the MIC MODEL module is available in addition to the COMP/LIMIT module. This module simulates the characteristics of various well-known microphone models.

Move the jog dial up/down to change

the MIC MODEL module settings.

The following microphone simulation settings are available.

• OFF (default)

The MIC MODEL module is off.

• SM57, MD421, U87, C414

The MIC MODEL module is enabled, and the respective mic characteristics are simulated. For details on mic characteristics, see page

95.

To accept the settings for the MIC MODEL module, press the jog dial.

To return to the stereo mode top screen, press the center of the

[MENU] key.

HINT

• In stereo mode, you only need to select an effect type. There is no provision for adjusting detailed parameters.

• For details about the effects available in stereo mode, see the reference section at the end of this manual.

• If you have switched effects on or off or changed effect settings, the recording level will have to be readjusted.

Recording

To record in stereo mode, proceed as follows.

At the stereo mode top screen, use

the TRACK [1] – [4] keys to select the recording format (

Press the [REC] key.

The [REC] key flashes, and the recorder is now in the standby condition. The level meter on the display lets you check the input signal level (recording level). You can also monitor the input signal via the [LINE OUTPUT] jack/[PHONES] jack.

HINT

• If the monitor function (→ p. 36) is on, the signal can always be monitored via the [LINE OUTPUT] jack/[PHONES] jack, even if the unit is not in recording standby mode.

• If the auto gain function is on, the input signal level will be detected when you set the H4 to

→

p. 13).

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Page 18

Quick Guide 1

the recording standby condition.

To start recording, press the [REC]

key once more.

If required, you can use the metronome function while recording (

To stop recording, press the [REC]

key, or press the top (@ [MENU] key.

The counter returns to zero. If you press the top (@

) of the [MENU] key in this condition, the recording is played back from the beginning. If you press the [REC] key again, the recorder goes again into the standby condition, and you can record a new stereo file.

NOTE

In stereo mode, a new stereo file is created every time from the beginning. It is not possible to record onto an existing file or start recording from a specified position. (For information on how to delete unneeded stereo files, see page 73.)

Stereo mode basic operation

→

p. 77).

) of the

Selecting a file for playback

In stereo mode, one stereo file (WAV or MP3 format) is created for each recording operation. These files are stored on the SD card in the dedicated “STEREO” folder. To select a file from this folder for playback, proceed as follows.

Name of currently selected file

HINT

• Files recorded in stereo mode have the name “STE-xxx.wav (mp3)” which is assigned automatically (where xxx is a number from 000 to 999).

→

•You can change the ﬁle name (

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to the file name. Then press the jog dial.

File selection is now possible.

Move the jog dial up/down to select a

file.

All files recorded in stereo mode are shown in turn.

To accept the file selection, press the

jog dial.

To play the selected file, press the

top (@

) of the [MENU] key.

The file selected in step 3 is played back.

p. 72).

Verify that the display shows the

stereo mode top screen.

To stop playback, press the top (@ of the [MENU] key once more.

)

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Quick Guide 2

In 4-track mode, the H4 operates as a multi-track recorder with four tracks. This section explains the basics of using the unit in 4-track mode. As an example, it shows how to record instruments or vocal parts one track at a time, and perform a final mix. In this section, the recording mode is “Overwrite” (every recording operation overwrites the current file). Note that operation steps differ depending on the recording mode. For details, see page 41. The description in this section covers the following four steps.

●

Step 1: Preparations

This includes selecting the mode, creating a project, and other preparation for recording.

●

Step 2: Recording the first track

Record the first track using the input signal after effect processing.

●

Step 3: Add more tracks

While listening to the recorded track, record the second and subsequent tracks.

●

Step 4: Mixing and bounce

Create a stereo mix while adjusting the level and panning settings for the four recorded tracks. Then write the final stereo mix to a file (bounce).

Step 1: Preparations

Switch to 4-track mode

4-track mode basic operation

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to “MODE”. Then press the jog dial.

The MODE SELECT screen appears.

In the default condition, the H4 operates in stereo mode (the [MODE] indicator on the top panel is lit). To switch the H4 to 4-track mode, proceed as follows.

At the stereo mode top screen, press

the center of the [MENU] key.

The main menu for making various settings appears.

ZOOM H4

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to “4TRACK RECORDER”.

Press the jog dial.

The H4 switches to 4-track mode and the [MODE] indicator goes out. The display automatically changes to the 4-track mode top screen.

Page 20

Quick Guide 2

HINT

To return from 4-track mode to stereo mode, perform the same steps from the 4-track mode top screen, select “STEREO RECORDER”, and press the jog dial.

4-track mode basic operation

Creating a new project

In 4-track mode, the H4 manages recordings in units called “projects”. When you start a new recording, create a project as follows.

At the 4-track mode top screen,

press the center of the [MENU] key.

The main menu for making various settings appears.

press the jog dial.

The default name for the new project is shown.

Name for project to be created

HINT

You can change the name of the project at this

→

p. 55), or you can change it later

point (

→

p. 56).

(

To create the new project, move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the OK button, and then press the jog dial.

The newly created project is automatically loaded, and the 4-track mode top screen appears. If you select the CANCEL button instead of the OK button, the new project is not created, and the PROJECT menu appears again.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to “PROJECT”. Then press the jog dial.

The PROJECT menu for project related operations appears.

HINT

When you call up the PROJECT menu, the current project is saved automatically.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to “NEW PROJECT”. Then

Making metronome settings

The H4 incorporates a metronome function that is useful for practice or for multi-track recording. Listening to the metronome during recording can help keep correct timing when adding instrumental or vocal tracks. (The sound of the metronome is not recorded on the track.) This section explains how to set the metronome tempo and volume.

At the 4-track mode top screen, press the center of the [MENU] key.

The main menu for making various settings appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

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Quick Guide 2

4-track mode basic operation

the cursor to “METRONOME”. Then press the jog dial.

The METRONOME setting screen appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to “CLICK”. Then press the jog dial.

The CLICK menu appears. This menu lets you select under which conditions the metronome click sound is heard. Available settings are as follows.

Playback only

Recording only

Recording and playback

OFF

Always off (default)

Move the jog dial up/down to select “

”. Then press the jog dial.

The display returns to the condition of step 3.

The LEVEL menu for setting the metronome level appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to set the level. Then press the jog dial.

HINT

You can also change the settings for pre-count (default: OFF) and beat (default: 4/4), as described on page 77.

Step 2: Recording the first track

Now you are ready to record the first track while listening to the metronome sound.

HINT

When recording the first track, it is recommended to choose guitar chords or another part where the song progression can be easily followed. You may also want to record a guide melody using guitar chords and vocals first, then add other instruments, and finally replace the guide track with the main vocal track.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to “TEMPO”. Then press the jog dial.

The TEMPO menu for selecting the metronome tempo appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to select the desired tempo value (40.0 – 250.0 BPM). Then press the jog dial.

To try out the metronome and check the tempo, you can press the top (@

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to “LEVEL”. Then press the jog dial.

) of the [MENU] key.

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Selecting the input source/ recording track

This section explains how to select the input source and recording track in 4-track mode.

At the 4-track mode top screen,

press the bottom (INPUT MENU) of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears.

Page 22

Quick Guide 2

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

4-track mode basic operation

the cursor to “SOURCE”. Then press the jog dial.

The input source can now be selected.

respective key repeatedly until it is lit in red.

In 4-track mode, the TRACK [1] - [4] keys serve to switch the status (record/playback condition) of tracks 1 - 4. Each push of the key cycles through the following three status settings.

Out Lit in red Lit in green

Mute Recording Playback enabled

TRACK [1] – [4] keys

For example, when you press the TRACK [1] key so that it is lit in red, the display changes as follows.

In 4-track mode, the following selections are available.

Display

MIC IN1&2 IN1 IN2

Built-in stereo mic L Built-in stereo mic R

[INPUT 1] jack [INPUT 2] jack [INPUT 1] jack [INPUT 2] jack

Input source

Input 1 Input 2

HINT

• When IN1&2 or MIC is selected, the input mixer will receive two signals.

• The built-in stereo mic always feeds the two L/ R channels as a set.

Move the jog dial up/down to select

the input source, and then press the jog dial.

The selection is accepted.

Press the center of the [MENU] key to return to the 4-track mode top screen.

To select the recording track, use the TRACK [1] – [4] keys and press the

Name of file recorded

Recording target track

on track

HINT

•To record two different instruments simultaneously on two tracks, select a track pair (tracks 1/2 or 3/4) as recording target

→

p. 50).

(

•To record the sound source in stereo, you can use a function called “stereo link” to link a track pair (tracks 1/2 or 3/4) and use them as a stereo

→

p. 53).

track (

Adjusting the input sensitivity/ recording level

To adjust the input sensitivity of the

input source, use the [MIC GAIN] switch, [INPUT 1 GAIN] switch, or [INPUT 2 GAIN] switch.

When recording with the built-in stereo mic, use

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Page 23

the [MIC GAIN] switch to set the sensitivity to a

suitable level. (For information on recommended settings, see page 13.)

When recording via the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks, use the [INPUT 1 GAIN] switch or [INPUT 2 GAIN] switch to set the sensitivity to a suitable level. For information on recommended settings, see the table below.

[INPUT 1 GAIN]/[INPUT 2 GAIN] switch

●

setting

Setting

For use when an electric guitar or other line-output device is connected directly. Also used for on-mic recording with a condenser mic or other high-output mic connected to the balanced input (XLR).

For on-mic recording of vocals or instruments from a close range

For off-mic recording with a greater distance to instruments or for recording an instrument with a low volume level.

Application

NOTE

Note that the signal input to the H4 will be distorted if the input sensitivity is not set correctly.

At the 4-track mode top screen, press the bottom of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears.

Quick Guide 2

lphanumeric

indication of input source

4-track mode basic operation

Recording level for input

source selected by cursor

Input signal level

HINT

• The alphanumeric indication at the left of the signal level bars shows the input source (“1” and “2” for the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks and “L” and “R” for the built-in stereo mic).

• While this screen is being shown, the input signal can be monitored via the [LINE OUTPUT] jack/[PHONES] jack.

If two input sources (IN1&2) have

been selected, move the jog dial up/ down to bring the cursor to the input source for which to adjust the recording level.

Press the jog dial to bring up the fader icon on the meter display.

The recording level can now be adjusted. While the fader icon is shown, the cursor is not displayed.

Fader icon

Adjust the recording level by moving the jog dial up/down while sound is being produced.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to “LEVEL”. Then press the jog dial.

The screen for adjusting the recording level appears.

ZOOM H4

The recording level setting can be checked at the top right. To record with optimum sound quality, the input signal level should be set as high as possible, without exceeding the 0 (dB) indication on the meter. The setting range is 0 – 127. When

Page 24

Quick Guide 2

4-track mode basic operation

the recording level is too high, the sound will be distorted.

NOTE

In 4-track mode, the auto gain function is not available.

To terminate the recording level

setting, press the jog dial.

The recording level is now set. The fader icon disappears and the cursor appears again.

If you have selected two input

sources (IN1&2), repeat steps 4 – 7 to adjust the recording level for the other source.

To return to the 4-track mode top

screen, repeatedly press the center of the [MENU] key.

Selecting an effect patch

In 4-track mode, the signal can be processed by the preamp and modulation effects before being recorded on the track. A collection of effect settings in 4-track mode is referred to as a “patch” which can be stored. The H4 has a total capacity for 60 patches, of which 50 are already preprogrammed at the factory. This section describes how to select a stored patch.

NOTE

In the default condition, the effect section is set to off in 4-track mode.

At the 4-track mode top screen, press the bottom (INPUT MENU) of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu appears.

Bring the cursor to the “EFFECT” item and press the jog dial.

The screen for selecting effect patches appears. When a project is in the default condition, the effect section is off. (In this condition, the ON/ OFF button at the bottom of the display shows “ON” because it will turn the effect section on when clicked.)

ON/OFF button

Verify that the cursor is on the ON/

OFF button and press the jog dial.

The effect section is activated. (The ON/OFF button at the bottom of the display now shows “OFF” because it will turn the effect section off when clicked.) The currently selected patch number and patch name are shown in the center of the display.

Currently selected patch number/patch name

Bring the cursor to the patch

number/patch name indication and press the jog dial.

The patch selection can now be changed.

Move the jog dial up/down to select

the patch, and then press the jog dial.

To select the patch while monitoring the sound, press the TRACK key for the track you want to monitor so that the key is lit up in red and is set

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Quick Guide 2

4-track mode basic operation

to the recording standby condition.

HINT

• In 4-track mode, the input signal can be monitored when there is at least one track in the recording standby condition (TRACK key lit in red).

• While the counter is being shown on the display, the H4 can always be set to the recording standby condition, and recording for a track can be carried out. However, if there is no track in recording standby condition, pressing the [REC] key has no effect.

• If the indication “EMPTY” is shown as the patch name, a blank patch is selected. This will have no effect on the sound.

To return to the 4-track mode top screen, repeatedly press the center of the [MENU] key.

HINT

• If you have switched effects on or off or changed effect settings, the recording level will have to be readjusted (

• When effect processing is off, a recording level setting of 100 will result in unity gain (no ampliﬁcation).

→

p. 22).

Recording/Playback

When preparations are complete, you are ready to record an instrument on the first track.

Out of the TRACK [1] – [4] keys, press the key for the track to record, so that the key is lit in red.

The input signal can now be monitored via the [LINE OUTPUT] jack or [PHONES] jack.

Press the [REC] key so that the key is lit up in red.

The H4 goes into the recording standby mode.

HINT

When the monitor function (→ p. 51) is enabled, the input signal can be monitored also if no track is set to recording standby.

Press the top (@

) of the [MENU] key.

Recording starts.

To stop recording, press the [REC]

key again or press the top (@

) of the

[MENU] key.

The [REC] key goes out and recording ends.

Tap the left part (U

) of the [MENU]

key.

The counter returns to the zero position. In 4-track mode, the [MENU] key has the functions shown below.

To check the recorded content,

[MENU] key functions in 4-track mode (Overwrite mode)

Press top (@) of [MENU] key

Start/stop recorder recording/playback.

Hold down left part (U) of [MENU] key

Fast-reverse from current point in 1-second increments.

Press left part (U) of [MENU] key

Return counter to zero.

Press center of [MENU] key

Display main menu for various settings (or return to immediately preceding screen).

ZOOM H4

Hold down right part (I) of [MENU] key

Fast-forward from current point in 1-second increments.

Press bottom (INPUT MENU) of [MENU] key

Display INPUT menu for making various input related settings.

Page 26

Quick Guide 2

4-track mode basic operation

press the top (@

When you press the top (@ while the [REC] key is out, the tracks for which the TRACK [1] – [4] keys are lit in green (playback) or red (recording enabled) are played back.

When the recorded content is as you want it, go to the 4-track mode top screen and press the TRACK key for the recorded track, so that the key is lit in green.

The track is now set to playback, which will prevent inadvertent recording on that track. To redo the recording, repeat steps 2 – 6.

HINT

With the H4 in the default condition, recording a track again will overwrite the previous content. If this is not desired, you can change the setting of the H4 so that a new file is created for every recording (

→

p. 40).

) of the [MENU] key.

) of the [MENU] key

Step 3: Add more tracks

While listening to the metronome and the recorded track, you can record other instruments or vocal parts on the second and subsequent tracks.

Preparations

Connect the instrument or mic for the

next recording to the H4, or place the H4 at a suitable position when using the built-in stereo mic (

Select the input source and

recording track as described in the section “Selecting the input source/ recording track”

→

(→ p. 21)

p. 12).

of “Step 2:

Recording the first track”.

Adjust the input sensitivity and recording level as described in the section “Adjusting the input sensitivity/recording level” ( of “Step 2: Recording the first track”.

Select the effect patch as described in the section “Selecting an effect patch” ( Recording the first track”.

→

p. 24 ) of “Step 2:

→

p. 22 )

Recording/Playback

When preparations are complete, you are ready to record an instrument or vocal part on the next track while listening to the first track.

Press the [REC] key so that the key is

lit up in red.

The H4 goes into the recording standby mode.

HINT

To control the balance between the playback signal of the recorded track and the input signal for the current track, you can adjust the volume level of the recorded track (

Press the top (@

Recording starts. You can also use a pre-count at this point. The pre-count setting can be controlled from the METRONOME menu (

To stop recording, press the [REC]

key again or press the top (@ [MENU] key.

The [REC] key goes out and recording ends.

Tap the left part (U

key.

→

p. 51).

) of the [MENU] key.

→

p. 77).

) of the

) of the [MENU]

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Page 27

The counter returns to the zero position.

To check the recorded content, press the top (@

All recorded tracks are played back.

When the recorded content is as you want it, go to the 4-track mode top screen and press the TRACK key for the recorded track, so that the key is lit in green.

) of the [MENU] key.

Quick Guide 2

MIXER button

Press the jog dial.

The MIXER screen for making mixer settings appears.

4-track mode basic operation

HINT

If there was a mistake, you can rerecord only a part of the track using the punch-in/out function

→

p. 43).

(

Record the other tracks using the same procedure.

Step 4: Mixing and bounce

When all four tracks have been recorded, you can adjust the volume level and panning (left/right positioning) to create a two-channel mix and write the result to a stereo file (bounce).

Mixing

You can adjust the volume and panning for recorded tracks as follows.

Verify that the TRACK [1] – [4] keys are lit in green.

At this stage, the metronome should normally be set to OFF (

→

p. 77).

At the 4-track mode top screen, move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the MIXER button.

Track number

Level meter for each track and panning icon

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the number of the track whose level and panning you want to adjust. Then press the jog dial.

The cursor disappears and the fader icon appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to adjust

the level.

The volume (level) can be adjusted in the range from 0 to 127. You can press the top (@ and adjust the level while the recorder performs playback.

Level and panning value for track selected with cursor

Fader icon

) of the [MENU] key

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Page 28

Quick Guide 2

To adjust the pan setting, press the jog dial once more and then move the jog dial up/down.

When you press the jog dial, an up/down arrow symbol appears to the left of the panning icon.

The pan setting range is L100 – C – R100.

To accept the pan setting, press the

jog dial.

The up/down arrow symbol disappears and the cursor appears again.

Repeat steps 4 – 7 to adjust the level

and panning for other tracks.

Tap the left part (U

key to return to the counter zero position.

4-track mode basic operation

Up/down arrows symbol

) of the [MENU]

Bounce

When the downmix is complete, you are ready to write the result to a stereo file (bounce). The file can then be sent to a computer via the USB connection, for example to burn an audio CD. You can also assign the stereo file to two tracks of the H4 and then use the remaining two tracks to record more instruments or vocal parts.

Verify that the TRACK [1] – [4] keys are lit in green.

Note that tracks for which the key is not lit (muted tracks) will not be included in the file produced after bouncing.

HINT

The file produced by bouncing reflects the panning and volume settings for each track.

At the 4-track mode top screen,

move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the BOUNCE button.

Put the recorder in playback mode

and check the output level with the level meter.

If the signal level reaches 0 dB, adjust the track volume level once more.

When the level check is complete,

press the top (@ to stop the recorder.

) of the [MENU] key

BOUNCE button

Press the jog dial.

The BOUNCE screen for controlling the bounce function appears.

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Page 29

OK button CANCEL button

HINT

• This screen lets you change the format of the resulting ﬁle (mono/stereo; default: stereo) or specify the ﬁle name (

• If you do not specify a name, the ﬁle created by bouncing will be automatically assigned a name using the pattern “BOUNCExx.wav” (where xx is a number from 00 – 99).

To execute the bounce function,

→

p. 45).

move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the OK button. Then press the jog dial.

While the bounce function is being executed, the indication “Now Processing” is shown on the display. The file created by bouncing is saved in the same “PROJxxx” folder as the other files recorded for the current project (xxx = 000 – 999).

Quick Guide 2

4-track mode basic operation

HINT

To check the bounce result using the H4 or to add more tracks, assign the bounced file to one or two

→

tracks ( stereo link for tracks 1/2 or 3/4 must be enabled to allow assigning the file to the stereo track (

p. 42). If a stereo file was produced,

→

p. 53).

NOTE

If the SD card runs out of space during the bounce operation, the indication “Card Full!” appears on the display, and the operation is canceled. Press the jog dial to close the window and delete files that are no longer needed. Then perform the bounce operation once more.

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Stereo Mode

This section describes the stereo mode functions and operation steps.

What is stereo mode?

In stereo mode, two signals either from the builtin stereo mic or from the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks are used as recording sources to create a stereo file. You can select either WAV or MP3 as format for the recorded file, and you can change the sampling rate and bit rate as required.

NOTE

• In stereo mode, only stereo recording and playback are possible. Multi-track recording is not supported.

• In stereo mode, recording will always start out with a new ﬁle, at the beginning of the ﬁle. It is not possible to use and overwrite an existing ﬁle.

The stereo mode top screen is shown below.

Counter showing the current recorder position

Phantom power supply on/off

(When set to on, the phantom voltage +48V or +24V is shown)

Recorder operation status

Switching to stereo mode

The two main operation modes of the H4 are stereo mode and 4-track mode. When power to the H4 is turned on, it will be in the mode that was selected the last time the unit was used. The currently selected mode is shown by the [MODE] indicator on the top panel. When the indicator is lit, the unit is in stereo mode. When the indicator is out, the unit is in 4-track mode.

Stereo mode 4-track mode

Lit

Stop the recorder and press the center of the [MENU] key.

The main menu for making various settings appears.

Out

A-B repeat function enable button

Recording/playback level meter

Selected file name

NOTE

The items shown on the main menu are different for stereo mode and 4-track mode.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to “MODE” and then press the jog dial.

The MODE SELECT screen appears.

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Page 31

To switch to stereo mode, move the

jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to "STEREO RECORDER" and then press the jog dial.

The H4 switches to stereo mode and the [MODE] indicator lights up.

The display automatically changes to the stereo mode top screen.

HINT

When you switch from 4-track mode to stereo mode, the project you were working on up to that point will be automatically saved.

Recording in stereo mode

Stereo Mode

The input source can now be selected.

Move the jog dial up/down to select the input source.

The following selections are available.

Display

MIC

IN1&2

To confirm the input source selection, press the jog dial.

To return to the stereo mode top screen, press the center of the [MENU] key.

Input source

Built-in stereo mic L/R [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks

This section explains the steps required for recording in stereo mode.

Select input source

You can select either the signal from the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks or the built-in stereo mic as input source to be assigned to the stereo tracks.

At the stereo mode top screen, press the bottom (INPUT MENU) of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to “SOURCE”, then press the jog dial.

ZOOM H4

Adjust recording level

Perform these steps to optimize the level of the signal sent to the stereo tracks.

Select the input source as described

above.

When using the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks as input source, verify that an external microphone or other device is connected.

Use the [MIC GAIN] switch (for the

built-in stereo mic) or the [INPUT 1 GAIN]/[INPUT 2 GAIN] switches (for the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks) to adjust the input sensitivity.

Page 32

Stereo Mode

There are three settings for the input sensitivity: L (Low)

→

M (Medium) → H (High) Note that the signal input to the H4 will be distorted if the input sensitivity is not set correctly.

Current recording level

Fader icon

●

[INPUT 1 GAIN]/[INPUT 2 GAIN] switch setting

Setting Application

For use when an electric guitar or other line-output device is connected directly.

Also used for on-mic recording with a condenser mic or other high-output mic connected to the balanced input (XLR).

For on-mic recording of vocals or

instruments from a close range. For off-mic recording with a greater

distance to instruments or for recording an instrument with a low volume level.

●

[MIC GAIN] switch setting

Setting

For on-mic recording of instruments

or single-session recording of a band performance.

For recording of acoustic guitar and

other instruments with low volume. Off-mic recording setting, mostly for

use in the ﬁeld.

At the stereo mode top screen, press

Application

the bottom (INPUT MENU) of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to “LEVEL”. Then press the jog dial.

The INPUT LEVEL screen for adjusting the recording level appears.

lphanumeric indication of input source

The alphanumeric indication at the left of the signal level bars shows the input source (“1” and “2” for the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks and “L” and “R” for the built-in stereo mic). Bring the cursor to the track whose recording level you want to adjust, and then press the jog dial. A fader icon appears next to the meter display, and the recording level can be adjusted.

HINT

• While this screen is being shown, the input signal can be monitored.

• If the built-in stereo mic has been selected as input source in stereo mode, the two input level settings are always linked.

NOTE

If the auto-gain function (→ p. 33) is on, the recording level cannot be adjusted manually. (Steps 5 and 6 cannot be carried out.)

To adjust the recording level, move the jog dial up or down.

The recording level changes according to the jog dial up/down movement.

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Page 33

Stereo Mode

HINT

• The recording level set here also inﬂuences the signal level after effect processing. When switching between effect on and off or when changing effect settings, the recording level will have to be readjusted.

• When effect processing is off, a recording level setting of 100 will result in unity gain (no ampliﬁcation).

When the recording level setting is as

desired, press the jog dial.

The recording level setting is finalized. The fader icon disappears and the cursor appears again.

To return to the stereo mode top

screen, press the center of the [MENU] key repeatedly.

To send the input signal to the stereo

tracks, press the [REC] key so that it flashes. The H4 is now in the recording standby condition.

The input signal is sent to the stereo tracks and can be monitored. The display changes as follows.

Name of file created by this operation

Input level

Recording standby indication

straight away.

Connect the microphone and instruments as required, and set the input sensitivity to match the input source.

At the stereo mode top screen, press the bottom (INPUT MENU) of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to “AUTO GAIN”. Then press the jog dial.

The auto gain function can now be switched on or off.

Move the jog dial up/down to select “ON”. Then press the jog dial.

The auto gain function is now enabled.

Automatic adjustment of recording level (Auto gain function)

In stereo mode, a function for automatically adjusting the recording level (auto gain function) is available. This is convenient to start recording

ZOOM H4

Press the center of the [MENU] key to return to the stereo mode top screen.

To set the recording level automatically using the auto gain function, press the [REC] key so that the key flashes and the recorder is in the recording standby indication.

The indication “REC LEVEL SCANNING...” appears on the display. The unit detects the level of the currently selected input source and adjusts

Page 34

Stereo Mode

the gain accordingly. When recording an instrument, briefly play it at the loudest level. The setting will then be made in such a way that the sound will not be distorted during recording. The level scanning continues until you press the [REC] key once more and start recording.

Current input source Automatically set

recording level

HINT

In recording standby mode, the input level can be checked with the meter indication. The alphanumeric indication at the left of the signal level bars shows the input source (“1” and “2” for the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks and “L” and “R” for the built-in stereo mic).

Select recording format

In stereo mode, you can select either WAV or MP3 as the format for saving the recorded content. The settings for sampling rate and bit rate can also be changed if required.

Stop the recorder, and press the

center of the [MENU] key.

The stereo mode main menu appears.

The RECORDING FORMAT screen appears.

NOTE

In 4-track mode, the recording format is fixed to WAV (44.1 kHz/16 bit). The main menu in 4-track mode therefore does not have a “RECORDING FORMAT” item.

The available sampling rate and bit rate settings for the two formats are listed below.

FORMAT

WAVE

MP3

SAMPLE BIT

44.1, 48, 96kHz 16, 24bit 48, 56, 64, 80, 96,

44.1kHz (ﬁxed)

112, 128, 160, 192, 224, 256, 320kbps, VBR

When WAV is selected as recording format, higher sampling rate and bit rate settings will provide higher sound quality. However, the resulting file size will also be bigger.

When MP3 is selected as recording format, higher bit rate settings will provide higher sound quality. The setting “VBR” is for “Variable Bit Rate”. With this setting, the bit rate adapts to the amount of information that is to be encoded. This method makes it possible to achieve fairly small file sizes without excessive degradation of sound quality.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to “RECORDING FORMAT”. Then press the jog dial.

To select the recording format and sampling rate/bit rate, proceed as follows.

(1) Move the jog dial up/down to bring the

cursor to the item to be set.

It is recommended to first select the recording

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Page 35

Stereo Mode

format and then the sampling rate/bit rate.

(2) Press the jog dial.

The setting can now be changed.

(3) Move the jog dial up/down to change the

setting.

(4) To accept the new setting, press the jog

dial.

HINT

If you attempt to change the setting while the recorder is operating, the indication “Stop Recorder!” appears. In this case, press the center of the [MENU] key to close the window and stop the recorder before proceeding.

(5) Repeat steps (1) – (4) as required to set

other items.

Press the center of the [MENU] key

to return to the stereo mode top screen.

The new format will apply to the next recording.

In stereo mode, it is also possible to use the TRACK [1] – [4] keys to switch the recording format. The key assignment is as follows.

TRACK [1] key

WAV (96 kHz)

TRACK [2] key

WAV (48 kHz)

TRACK [3] key

WAV (44.1 kHz)

TRACK [4] key

MP3 (44.1 kHz)

When you press a key, the key lights up and the screen of step 2 appears, with the respective format and sampling rate selected. If required, change also the bit rate.

Record

Recording in stereo mode is performed as follows.

At the stereo mode top screen, press

the [REC] key.

The [REC] key flashes and the recorder is in the recording standby condition. In this condition, the input signal level (recording level) can be checked with the meter indication. If you press the left part (U top (@

) of the [MENU] key, the recording

standby condition is canceled.

HINT

At any time when the counter is being shown on the display, recording can be carried out.

To start recording, press the [REC] key once more.

A metronome function for use during recording is also available (

To stop recording, press the [REC] key once more, or press the top (@ of the [MENU] key.

The counter returns to zero. If you press the top (@

) of the [MENU] key in this condition, you

can play back the recording from the beginning.

→

p. 77).

), right part (I

), or

)

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Page 36

Stereo Mode

Using the monitor function

To monitor the level of the input signal in stereo mode, the recorder must be set to recording standby mode, or the INPUT LEVEL screen for adjusting the recording level must be brought up. However, when the monitor function has been set to ON in the INPUT menu, the input signal can always be monitored.

At the stereo mode top screen, press the bottom (INPUT MENU) of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to “MONITOR”. Then press the jog dial.

The monitor function can now be switched on or off.

Playback in stereo mode

This section explains the steps required for playback of a file recorded in stereo mode.

Selecting a file for playback

In stereo mode, each recording session will produce one stereo file (WAV or MP3). These files are saved in a dedicated folder on the SD card called “STEREO”. The procedure for selecting a file from this folder for playback is explained below.

Verify that the display shows the stereo mode top screen.

File selection is carried out at the top screen.

Name of currently selected file

Move the jog dial up/down to select

“ON”. Then press the jog dial.

The monitor function is now enabled.

Press the center of the [MENU] key

to return to the stereo mode top screen.

HINT

• When there is no ﬁle recorded in stereo mode, the indication “NO DATA” is shown.

• Files recorded in stereo mode have the name “STE-xxx.wav (mp3)” which is assigned automatically. (xxx is a number from 000 to

999.)

→

•You can change the ﬁle name (

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the desired file name. Then press the jog dial.

The file name is shown in reverse, and file selection is possible.

Move the jog dial up/down to select a

p. 72).

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Page 37

Stereo Mode

file.

All files in the dedicated folder for stereo mode files are shown in turn. There is no need to switch the H4 to different formats as for recording.

To accept the file selection, press the jog dial.

To play the selected file, press the top (@

) of the [MENU] key.

The file selected in step 3 is played back.

To stop playback, press the top (@ of the [MENU] key once more.

HINT

• In stereo mode, the [MENU] key can also be used to select a ﬁle.

• By brieﬂy pressing the right part ( [MENU] key, you can jump to the next ﬁle. After returning to the counter zero position, you can jump to the previous ﬁle by pressing the left

) of the [MENU] key.

part (

•You can switch ﬁles while the recorder is playing.

)

) of the

Locating a point in a recording (Locate)

This section describes how to move to any counter position in a recording.

Verify that the recorder is stopped and that the display shows the stereo mode top screen.

The locate function is available from the top screen only.

Counter

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to the digit of the counter that you want to specify.

The counter digits have the following meaning, proceeding from the left: hours, minutes, seconds, milliseconds

Hours Minutes Seconds Milliseconds

NOTE

Files in the same folder are not sorted in the order they were recorded, but by the start of the file name. The character sort order is as follows.

(space) !#$%&'()+,-. 0123456789;=@ ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWX YZ[]^_` abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz{}

ZOOM H4

Press the jog dial when the cursor is at the desired digit.

The value of that digit can now be changed.

NOTE

In stereo mode, you cannot use the locate function to move to a point that exceeds the file length.

Move the jog dial up/down to change

the counter indication, and then press the jog dial.

The change is accepted and the recorder moves to the specified point. If necessary, bring the cursor to other digits and repeat the procedure.

Page 38

Stereo Mode

Pressing the top (@ start playback from that point.

) of the [MENU] key will

Playing a specified section repeatedly (A-B repeat)

The A-B repeat function lets you specify a point A and point B and automatically play the section between these two points repeatedly. This is convenient for example to check a specific part of a recording.

Verify that the stereo mode top

screen is being shown on the display.

Settings for A-B repeat are made at the top screen.

A↔B button

Locate the start point for the range

to be repeated.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to the A press the jog dial.

The A↔B button flashes and that point is set as the A-B repeat start point (point A).

HINT

In stereo mode, points A and B can be set only while the recorder is in playback or stop mode (not during recording).

Locate the end point for the range to be repeated. Bring the cursor to the A

↔

B button and press the jog dial.

↔

B button. Then

The A↔B button changes from flashing to reverse indication, and that point is set as the A-B repeat end point (point B).

NOTE

To redo the point A/B setting, bring the cursor to

↔

B button and press the jog dial to return

the A the button indication to the original condition. Then repeat the procedure.

To start repeat playback, press the

top (@

) of the [MENU] key.

Playback starts. When the end point (point B) is reached, the recorder returns to the start point (point A), and playback continues.

A B

Playback

NOTE

• If you set point B before point A, repeat playback occurs between points B

• If you start playback at a location after both point A and B, repeat playback is not carried out. Instead, normal playback occurs.

• In stereo mode, the A-B repeat function is not available during recording.

To stop repeat playback, press the top (@

) of the [MENU] key once

more.

Even after stopping, you can use A-B repeat again, until you cancel the function.

To cancel A-B repeat, bring the cursor to the A the jog dial.

The button indication returns to the original condition, and the settings for points A and B are lost.

↔

B button and press

→

ZOOM H4

Page 39

4-Track Mode

This section describes the 4-track mode functions and operation steps.

What is 4-track mode?

In 4-track mode, the H4 functions as a multitrack recorder. This mode allows simultaneous recording of 2 tracks and simultaneous playback of 4 tracks. This lets you do things such as create a backing of drum machine and bass and then produce a guitar or vocal overlay in the studio. After recording all four tracks, the individual volume and panning (left/right positioning) of each track can be adjusted for playback, and a stereo or mono file can be created on the SD card.

4-track mode supports both stereo recording and mono recording. For stereo recording, the combinations of track 1/2 or track 3/4 must be used. The possible mono/stereo combinations for the four tracks are therefore as shown below.

Track 1 Track 2 Track 3 Track 4

Mono Mono Mono Mono Stereo Mono Mono Mono Mono Stereo Stereo Stereo

NOTE

• In 4-track mode, recordings (songs) are managed in units called "projects" (

• The recording format in 4-track mode is ﬁxed to WAV (44.1 kHz/16 bit).

→

p. 54).

When phantom power supply is on,

Counter showing the current recorder position

Currently selected track number

Meter showing record/playback level

Buttons for functions available in 4-track mode

+48V/+24V is shown

Selected file name for the current track

Recorder operation status

Switching to 4-track mode

The currently selected mode of the H4 is shown by the [MODE] indicator on the top panel. When the indicator is lit, the unit is in stereo mode. When the indicator is out, the unit is in 4-track mode. To switch the H4 to 4-track mode, proceed as follows.

Stop the recorder and press the

center of the [MENU] key at the top screen.

The main menu for making various settings appears.

The top screen of the 4-track mode is shown below.

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Page 40

4-Track Mode

NOTE

The items shown on the main menu are different for stereo mode and 4-track mode.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to "MODE". Then press the jog dial.

The MODE SELECT screen appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to "4TRACK RECORDER".

Press the jog dial.

The H4 switches to 4-track mode and the [MODE] indicator goes out. The display automatically changes to the 4-track mode top screen.

Selecting the recording mode

This section describes how to select one of the two recording modes available in 4-track mode.

About the recording mode

In 4-track mode, there are basically two basic recording modes, namely the "Overwrite" mode and the "Always New" mode. These modes are characterized as follows.

starting a recording also partway through a track, and a function called punch-in/out (

→

p. 43) that overwrites only a specified section is also supported.

First recording pass

Second recording pass

Later material overwrites

existing material

●

Always New mode

In this mode, a new file is created for every recording operation, as in stereo mode. Recording always starts from the beginning of a file (song). Recorded files are saved in a dedicated folder on the SD card with the name "PROJxxx" (where xxx is a number from 000 to 999). The file to play for each track can be selected later.

This is useful to record multiple takes of a vocal or guitar passage and then later compare the takes and select the best one.

First recording pass Second recording pass Third recording pass

First recording pass

Second recording pass

A new file is created the second time and becomes the playback target

The first file is no longer the playback target

Third recording pass

A new file is created the third time and becomes the playback target

Overwrite mode (default)

●

In this mode, you record on a track that already has material on it, and you overwrite the existing material. This mode allows

Other files can later be selected for playback

ZOOM H4

Page 41

4-Track Mode

Selecting the recording mode

This section explains how to select the recording mode.

HINT

The recording mode setting is saved separately for each project.

Verify that the recorder is stopped

and press the center of the [MENU] key at the top screen.

The main menu for making various settings appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to "REC MODE". Then press the jog dial.

The REC MODE SELECT screen appears.

Operation differences according to recording mode

The recording operation steps differ according to the currently selected recording mode.

◆

Recording in Overwrite mode

At the 4-track mode top screen,

press one of the TRACK [1] – [4] keys repeatedly until the key is lit in red, to select the track on which to record.

To start recording, press the [REC]

key so that the key lights up (unit is in recording standby condition). Then press the top (@

Recording begins.

HINT

It is also possible to first press the top (@ [MENU] key to start playback and then press the [REC] key at the point where you want recording to start. This method is convenient to perform manual punch-in.

To stop recording, press the [REC] key once more, or press the top (@ of the [MENU] key.

Recording stops. If you have used the [REC] key, the unit continues in playback mode.

) of the [MENU] key.

) of the

)

To change the recording mode, move

the jog dial up/down to display "OVER WRITE" or "ALWAYS NEW".

The displayed mode is selected.

To return to the 4-track mode top

screen, press the center of the [MENU] key.

ZOOM H4

◆

Recording in Always New mode

At the 4-track mode top screen,

press one of the TRACK [1] – [4] keys repeatedly until the key is lit in red, to select the track on which to record.

To start recording, press the [REC]

key so that the key lights up (unit is in recording standby condition), and then press the [REC] key once more.

Page 42

4-Track Mode

The [REC] key stays lit constantly, and recording begins.

To stop recording, press the [REC] key once more, or press the top (@ of the [MENU] key.

Recording is completed and the recorder stops.

Recorder

This section explains how to operate the recorder in 4-track mode.

Selecting files for playback

Files recorded in 4-track mode are saved by project on the SD card. In Always New mode, you can record multiple files and later select the file to play for each track. The procedure for assigning a saved file to a track is described below.

Bring up the 4-track mode top screen on the display.

File selection is carried out at the top screen.

Number of currently selected track

Currently selected file name

• Files recorded in stereo mode (provided that the recording format is 44.1 kHz/16 bit) can be included in a 4-track mode project and assigned to tracks 1/2 or 3/4 (

)

Use the TRACK [1] – [4] keys to

select the track to which you want to assign a file.

The selected track number appears on the display, and the name of the file currently selected for the track is shown.

HINT

• The TRACK [1] – [4] keys not only serve to change the status of a track (off: out, playback: lit in green, record: lit in red) but also allow the selection of a track.

• When the TRACK [1] - [4] key for a track that is currently not selected is pressed once, the track will be selected, but its status does not change.

Number of selected track

Currently selected file name

HINT

•Tracks for which stereo link is enabled are shown as "1/2" and "3/4". In this case, pressing the key for either of the two tracks will select both.

• If no ﬁle is selected for a track, the indication "NO DATA" is shown.

→

p.74).

HINT

• Files recorded in 4-track mode are automatically assigned names using the pattern "TRKx-yy.wav" (where x is the track number and yy is a number from 00 – 99).

• For stereo ﬁles covering two tracks recorded with stereo link enabled, the track number "x" is always the sequence "12" or "34".

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to the file name indication. Then press the jog dial.

The file can now be selected.

Move the jog dial up/down to select a

file.

For mono tracks, only monaural files can be selected. For tracks where stereo link is enabled,

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Page 43

4-Track Mode

only stereo files can be selected.

HINT

As long as the file is from the same project, a track other than one used during recording can also be selected.

NOTE

It is not possible to select the same file for multiple tracks.

To accept the file selection, press the

jog dial.

The file for playback is selected.

Repeat steps 2 – 5 to assign files to

other tracks in the same way.

Out of the TRACK [1] – [4] keys,

press the key for the desired track, so that the key is lit in green (playback).

To play the files assigned to the

tracks, press the top (@ [MENU] key.

The respective files of the tracks are played.

) of the

Using the locate function and A-B repeat function in 4-track mode

In 4-track mode, you can locate a specific point and use the A-B repeat function as in stereo mode. For details, see page 37, 38.

Re-recording only a specified region (punch-in/out function)

Punch-in/out is a function that lets you re-record just a specified region of a previously recorded track. The action of switching a currentlyplaying track to record mode is called "punchin", and the action of switching back from recording to playback is called "punch-out".

The H4 provides two ways to do this. You can control the operation manually ("manual punchin/out"), or you can cause punch-in/out to occur automatically at previously specified points ("auto punch-in/out").

NOTE

Punch-in/out is possible only in Overwrite mode.

◆

Manual punch-in/out

To manually re-record only a part of an audio track, proceed as follows.

At the top screen, press one of the TRACK [1] – [4] keys to select the track you want to re-record.

The display shows the number of the selected track.

Number of currently selected track

Currently selected file name

NOTE

• If Overwrite mode is selected in 4-track mode, the A-B repeat function is available during playback, stop, and recording.

• If Always New mode is selected in 4-track mode, the A-B repeat function is not available during recording (as in stereo mode).

ZOOM H4

Press the same TRACK [1] – [4] key

that you pressed in step 1 repeatedly, so that the key is lit in red.

The input signal can now be monitored. The number of the track selected as recording target is shown in reverse.

Page 44

4-Track Mode

Input signal level

Locate a point slightly before the intended punch-in point, and press the top (@

When you come to the punch-in point, press the [REC] key.

The [REC] key lights up, and track recording begins from that location (punch-in).

When you come to the intended punch-out point, press the [REC] key once more.

The [REC] key goes out, and the H4 switches from recording to playback (punch-out).

Press the top (@ to stop the recorder.

To check the results, use the locate

function to move to a point before the punch-in point, and press the top (

) of the [MENU] key.

◆

Auto punch-in/out

To automatically re-record only a part of an audio track by specifying the punch-in/out points beforehand, proceed as follows.

At the top screen, press one of the

TRACK [1] – [4] keys to select the track you want to re-record.

The display shows the number of the selected track.

) of the [MENU] key.

) of the [MENU] key

-PUNCH button

Press the same TRACK [1] – [4] keys that you pressed in step 1 repeatedly, so that the key is lit in red.

The input signal can now be monitored. The number of the track selected as recording target is shown in reverse.

Locate the intended punch-in point.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the A-PUNCH button. Then press the jog dial.

The A-PUNCH button flashes, and the point is set as the punch-in point where auto punch-in/out will begin.

NOTE

In Always New mode, the A-PUNCH button is grayed out and cannot be selected.

Locate the intended punch-out point

and bring the cursor to the A-PUNCH button. Then press the jog dial.

The A-PUNCH button changes from flashing to reverse, and the point is set as the punch-out point where auto punch-in/out will end. When auto punch-in/out is enabled, the TRACK key(s) will flash while the recorder is before the punchin point and after the punch-out point.

NOTE

•To redo the punch-in/out point setting, bring the cursor to the A-PUNCH button and press the jog dial to return the button indication to the original condition. Then repeat steps 3 – 5.

ZOOM H4

Page 45

•

If you set the punch-out point before the punch-in point, the range is speciﬁed as out

HINT

The punch-in/out point setting can be made in the playback or the stop condition of the recorder.

Locate a point slightly before the

intended punch-in point.

To rehearse the auto punch-in/out

process, press the top (@ [MENU] key.

When the punch-in point is reached, the respective track is muted, and muting is canceled when the out point is reached. The remaining tracks and the input signal can continue to be monitored, but actual recording is not carried out.

→

in.

) of the

4-Track Mode

To stop playback, press the top (@ of the [MENU] key.

The recorder stops.

To cancel auto punch-in/out, bring the cursor to the A-PUNCH button and press the jog dial.

The button returns to the original condition and auto punch-in/out is canceled. The settings for the punch-in/out points are also lost.

To check the recorded content, locate a point slightly before the punch-in point, and press the top (@ of the [MENU] key.

Combining multiple tracks on one file (bounce function)

)

Punch-in point Punch-out point

Track

Playback PlaybackMute

To perform the actual auto punch-in/

out process, press the [REC] key so that the key flashes, and then press the top (@

When the punch-in point is reached, recording on the respective track starts automatically (punchin). When the punch-out point is reached, recording on the respective track ends automatically (punch-out).

Track

HINT

During the mute interval, the TRACK key(s) will change from flashing to constantly lit. During recording, the TRACK key(s) and [REC] key both change from flashing to constantly lit.

) of the [MENU] key.

Punch-in point Punch-out point

Playback PlaybackRecord

ZOOM H4

"Bounce" is a function that mixes the sound from tracks 1 – 4 and outputs it to a single file (stereo or mono). This allows you to record parts such as vocals, guitar, backing etc. separately and then use these elements to create a stereo file. By assigning the resulting file to a stereo track, you can free up the other tracks for further recording of more instruments or parts. The bounce range extends from the beginning of the recording to the end of the track. It is not possible to bounce only part of a recording.

The illustration below shows an example for bouncing 4 tracks onto a stereo file.

5 minutes

Track 1 Track 2

Track 3 Track 4

Bounce

5 minutes

Stereo file

Page 46

4-Track Mode

At the 4-track mode top screen, select the track(s) you want to use as a bounce source by using the TRACK [1] – [4] keys. Press the respective key repeatedly until it is lit in green.

Note that tracks for which the key is not lit (muted tracks) will not be included in the file produced after bouncing.

Press the top (@ to start playback of the recorder, and adjust panning (only for stereo files) and volume level of each track, while monitoring the overall output level.

Output level

The file produced by bouncing reflects the panning and volume settings for each track. For information on adjusting these parameters, see "4-track mixing (volume/panning)" on page 51.

) of the [MENU] key

BOUNCE button

OK button CANCEL button

To select the format for the bounce target file (stereo or mono), move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the "FORMAT" item. Then press the jog dial.

The format can now be changed.

Move the jog dial up/down to select "STEREO" or "MONO". The press the jog dial.

When STEREO is selected

●

The created stereo file reflects both the panning and the volume settings.

When MONO is selected

●

The panning setting is disregarded. The volume setting for final L and R output is added up and divided by 2. This gives the volume level of the file.

NOTE

If the level meter indication shows that signal clipping occurs, lower the volume setting for each track.

When level checking is complete, press the top (

) of the [MENU] key to stop the recorder.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the BOUNCE button. Then press the jog dial.

The BOUNCE screen for controlling the bounce function appears.

To set the name for the file after bouncing, move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the "NAME" item. Then press the jog dial.

The cursor disappears and the first character is underlined. In this condition, you can change the file name.

Underline

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4-Track Mode

HINT

If you do not specify a name here, the file created by bouncing will be automatically assigned a name using the pattern "BOUNCExx.wav" (where xx is a number from 00 – 99).

When the underline is shown, change the name as follows.

(1) Move the jog dial up/down to bring the

underline to the character you want to change. Then press the jog dial.

The character can now be changed.

(2) Move the jog dial up/down to change the

character.

The following characters are available.

0 – 9 A – Z, a – z (space) ! # $ % & ' ( ) + , - . ; = @ [ ] ^ _ ' { } ˜

(3) Press the jog dial to accept the selected

character.

(4) Repeat steps (1) – (3) as required to

specify the entire name.

(5) Move the jog dial up/down to bring the

underline beyond the left or right edge of the name string.

The underline disappears and the cursor appears again. The name change is now complete.

To execute the bounce function, move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the OK button. Then press the jog dial.

While the bounce function is being executed, the indication "Now Processing" is shown on the display. The file created by bouncing is saved in the same location as the other files recorded for the current project. To check the bounce result, assign the file to a track (

→

p. 42).

HINT

If you select the CANCEL button instead of the OK button, the operation is abandoned and the unit returns to the top screen of the 4-track mode.

NOTE

If the SD card becomes full during the bounce operation, the indication "Card Full!" appears, and the process cannot be completed. Press the jog dial to close the window, delete files that are no longer required, and then perform the bounce operation once more.

Mixer

This section explains the use of the mixer in 4track mode.

About the mixer in 4-track mode

When the H4 is operating in 4-track mode, two kinds of mixers can be used, namely the input mixer and track mixer. The input mixer takes up to two signals from the built-in stereo mic or the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks and sends them on in mixed form or separately to the recorder tracks.

Input 1

Input 2

Input mixer

(for volume and panning)

The track mixer adjusts the volume and panning/ balance of each signal recorded on the four tracks and produces a stereo output signal.

Tra ck 1 Tra ck 2 Tra ck 3 Tra ck 4

Recorder

Track mixer

[LINE OUTPUT] jack

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4-Track Mode

NOTE

• The input signal can be processed using the built-in effects (

• If stereo link for two odd/even numbered track pairs (1/2 and 3/4) is enabled, the respective track pair can be used as a stereo track with linked parameters (

→

p. 62).

→

p. 53).

Selecting the input source

This section explains how to select the two input signals to assign to the input mixer. The L/R signals from the built-in stereo mic or the signals from the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks can be selected. The input source selected here is sent to the recorder tracks.

At the 4-track mode top screen, press the bottom of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears.

Display

MIC

IN1&2 IN1 IN2

HINT

• When MIC or IN1&2 is selected, the input mixer

• The built-in stereo mic always feeds the two L/

Input 1 Input 2

Built-in stereo mic L

[INPUT 1] jack [INPUT 2] jack [INPUT 1] jack [INPUT 2] jack

will receive two signals.

R channels as a set. It is not possible to combine for example the L channel of the builtin stereo mic with the [INPUT 2] jack.

To accept the input source selection, press the jog dial.

To return to the 4-track mode top screen, press the center of the [MENU] key.

Input source

Built-in stereo mic R

Adjusting the recording level

Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to "SOURCE". Then press the jog dial.

The input source can now be selected.

Move the jog dial up/down to select

the input source.

The following selections are available.

This section describes how to adjust the recording level for the signal supplied to the input mixer.

Select the input source as described

above.

When using the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks as input source, verify that an external microphone or other device is connected.

Adjust the input sensitivity with the

[MIC GAIN] switch, [INPUT 1 GAIN] switch, or [INPUT 2 GAIN] switch, as required.

There are three settings for the input sensitivity: L (Low)

→

M (Medium) → H (High). For

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4-Track Mode

information on recommended settings, see page

32.

NOTE

Note that the signal input to the H4 will be distorted if the input sensitivity is not set correctly.

At the 4-track mode top screen, press the bottom of the [MENU] key.

The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears.

Move the jog dial up/down to bring

the cursor to "LEVEL". Then press the jog dial.

The INPUT LEVEL screen for adjusting the recording level appears.

Currently selected input source

lphanumeric indication

of input source

Recording level of source selected with cursor

Signal input level

HINT

• The alphanumeric indication at the left of the signal level bars shows the input source ("1" and "2" for the [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks and "L" and "R" for the built-in stereo mic).

• While this screen is being shown, the input signal can be monitored via the [LINE OUTPUT] jack and [PHONES] jack.

When IN1&2 is selected, move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the input source whose level you want to adjust.

Press the jog dial to bring up the fader icon next to the meter display.

The recording level can now be adjusted. While the fader icon is being shown, the cursor is not shown.

Fader icon

Move the jog dial up/down to adjust

the recording level.

The recording level setting can be checked on the display. To record with optimum sound quality, the input signal level should be set as high as possible, without exceeding the 0 (dB) indication on the meter. The setting range is 0 – 127. When the recording level is too high, the sound will be distorted.

HINT

• When effect processing is off, a recording level setting of 100 will result in a unity gain (no ampliﬁcation) being sent to the track. If the level meter indication shows that signal clipping occurs, readjust the input source sensitivity setting.

To terminate the recording level setting, press the jog dial.

The recording level is set. The fader icon disappears, and the cursor appears again. If IN1&2 has been selected, repeat steps 5 – 8 for

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4-Track Mode

the other input source.

To return to the 4-track mode top screen, repeatedly press the center of the [MENU] key.

Selecting the recording track

When the recording level has been adjusted, you must select the track(s) for recording. The signal processing method differs, depending on whether one or two input sources are selected, and whether one or two tracks have been selected.

Verify that the recorder is stopped

and bring up the 4-track mode top screen.

To select only one track as recording

target, use the TRACK [1] – [4] keys and press the respective key repeatedly until it is lit in red.

The selected track appears as a mono track on the top screen. The number of the track is shown in reverse.

Track number

The signal of the source is sent to the selected track.

●

When there are two input sources

The signals of input 1/2 are mixed and sent to the selected track.

Input source: mono

Input

Input source: stereo

Input 1

Input 2

Input mixer

To select two tracks (mono track x 2,

Recorder

Tra ck

Recorder

Tra ck

or stereo track) as recording target, use the TRACK [1] – [4] keys as follows.

●

To select two mono tracks

Repeatedly press one of the TRACK [1]/[2] keys or the TRACK [3]/[4] keys until the respective key is lit in red. Then hold down that key and press the other TRACK key so that it lights up in red.

The track number corresponding to the second TRACK key is shown on the display. (To show the other track number, press the first TRACK key once more.)

NOTE

If one of two tracks for which stereo link is enabled is selected, the other track is also selected as recording target. Unless you disable the stereo link setting, it is not possible to select only one track.

●

When there is one input source

Track number

HINT

To select two mono tracks, the combination of tracks 1 and 2 or 3 and 4 can be used.

ZOOM H4

Zoom H4 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual