Zoom H4n User Manual

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

OPERATION MANUAL

English

Special features of H4n

001

Special features of H4n

* Please read this manual carefully to ensure comprehensive knowledge and proper use of the H4n. After reading through it, please keep the manual for future reference

• An all-in-one handy recorder.

You can enjoy recording and creating your own music any time, anywhere with the H4n. The H4n has a very compact 280 g lightweight design, equipped with high quality stereo condenser microphones arranged in an XY pickup pattern, a built-in speaker, SD card recording, mixer and internal effects.

• Versatile eld recorder with multi-track capability.

The H4n is capable of recording in several different operation modes: <STEREO mode> which is capable of high quality stereo recording; <4CH mode> which can record 4 discrete channels simultaneously using the on-board microphones and the external inputs; <MTR mode> which allows you to record multiple tracks in multiple passes, overdubbing one or two tracks at a time. In <STAMINA mode> you can record for up to 11 hours using batteries only.

• Newly designed XY stereo microphones allow variable recording patterns from 90 to 120 degrees.

The H4n allows the user to adjust the angle of the onboard microphones to address a wider range of recording scenarios. If you want a wider area of sound, you can set the microphones to 120 degrees. Or set them to 90 degrees for a more focused sound source. Either way, the mics retain their XY configuration, so you can record natural stereo sound with no phase cancellation.

• XLR-1/4-inch combo jacks allow direct connection of any sound source.

We’ve loaded the H4n with a versatile array of input options to accommodate a variety of recording sources. Any type of microphone (including condensers), electric instrument (guitar, bass, keyboard) or line level source can be connected to the H4n.

• It can be used as an Audio Interface/SD card reader for a computer.

An onboard USB 2.0 Hi-Speed jack allows direct connection to a computer. You can use it as an audio interface with built-in effects (sampling rate 44.1 kHz). You can also use the H4n as an SD card reader for your computer. You can even take the recorded files from your computer and create an audio CD using those files as material in any DAW software.

• Other built-in functions: Tuner/Metronome/Karaoke.

The H4n can be used as a standard chromatic tuner. It is also capable of more irregular tuning functions, like for a 7-string guitar or a 5-string bass, along with others. The H4n has a metronome function convenient for practice and multitrack recording. You can change playback speed between the ranges of 50% to 150%. There are many other effects functions included, such as center cancel function for stereo files, Karaoke function with variable key control, language learning and voice training function

Thank you very much for purchasing our ZOOM H4n Handy Recorder (hereinafter abbreviated to H4n). The H4n has the following special features.

The H4n is ideal for the following scenarios

002

The H4n is ideal for the following scenarios

Piano recitals

Any field sound recordingRecording the meetings

Live performance recording

Vocal recording

The band practices

Recording acoustic guitar sound

Transfer analogue sound sources to digital sources

Drum practice recording

A table of contents

003

Special features of H4n �� 001

The H4n is ideal for the following scenarios ��002

A table of contents ��003

Safety precautions for users �� 006

Copyright warnings �� 007

Getting started

1-1 Recording flow using the H4n �� 009

1-2 Easy recording guide [STEREO MODE] �� 011

2-1 Name and function of each part ��013

2-2 Included Accessories �� 015

3 Battery/Power setting �� 017

4-1 Power On and Off, How to use power and hold switch ��019

4-2 How to use the [REC] and transport control buttons �� 021

4-3 How to use the track [1], [2], [3] and [4] buttons �� 022

4-4 How to use the input [MIC], [1] and [2] buttons �� 023

4-5 How to use REC LEVEL and VOLUME ��024

4-6 How to use [DIAL] and [MENU] buttons ��025

5-1 Insert a SD card �� 027

5-2 Set date and time <DATE/TIME> �� 028

6-1 Setting up: How to connect external audio devices �� 029

6-2 Setting up: Built-in microphones ��030

6-3 Setting up: Built-in microphones /outside microphone with plug-in power �031

6-4 Setting up: INPUT [1], [2] connections and phantom power source �� 032

6-5 Setting up: USB connection, H4n used as an Audio Interface �� 033

6-6 Setting up: USB connection, H4n used as a SD card reader �� 035

6-7 Setting up: Built-in speaker ��036

7-1 About H4n modes ��037

7-2 Selecting a <MODE> �� 038

7-3 Details about modes �� 039

8-1 <MODE> screens: STEREO and STAMINA modes ��040

8-2 <MODE> screen: 4CH mode ��041

8-3 <MODE> screen: MTR mode �� 042

8-4 <MODE> screen: MAIN MENU��043

9 Option: Remote control operation �� 045

Operations

1-01 Setting / Recording: Set input source and recording level �� 047

1-02 Setting / Recording: Recording in STEREO and STAMINA mode � � 049

1-03 Setting / Recording: Recording format <REC FORMAT> �� 051

1-04 Setting / Recording: File name <FILE NAME> �� 052

1-05 Setting / Recording: Recording on 4CH mode �� 053

1-06-1 Setting / Recording: Recording in MTR mode �� 055

1-06-2 Setting / Recording: Recording <OVER WRITE> in MTR mode ��057

A table of contents

004

1-06-3 Setting / Recording: Recording <ALWAYS NEW> in MTR mode ��058

1-07 Setting / Recording: TRACK MENU in MTR mode �� 059

1-08-1 Setting / Recording: Re-recording, <PUNCH IN/OUT> automatic �061

1-08-2 Setting / Recording: Re-recording, <PUNCH IN/OUT> manual ��063

2-01-1 Recording function <AUTO REC> ��065

2-01-2 Recording function <AUTO REC STOP> �� 066

2-02 Recording function <PRE REC> ��067

2-03 Recording function <LO CUT> ��068

2-04 Recording function <COMP/LIMIT> �� 069

2-05 Recording function <REC LEVEL AUTO> �� 070

2-06 Recording function <MONITOR> ��071

2-07 Recording function <MONO MIX> �� 072

2-08 Recording function <MS STEREO MATRIX>�� 073

3-01-1 Tuner <TUNER (CHROMATIC) > �� 075

3-01-2 Tuner, all other <TUNER> �� 076

3-01-3 Tuner <TUNER (CALIB) > �� 077

3-01-4 Tuner <TUNER (INPUT) > ��078

3-02 Metronome <METRONOME> �� 079

3-03-1 All about EFFECT �� 081

3-03-2 Effect <EFFECT> �� 083

3-03-3 Effect <EDIT>, patch edit ��084

3-03-4 Effect <EDIT (PRE AMP) >, editing PRE AMP modules �� 085

3-03-5 Effect <EDIT (EFX) >, editing EFX modules �� 086

3-03-6 Effect <EDIT (LEVEL/RENAME) > �� 087

3-03-7 Effect <EDIT (STORE) > ��088

3-03-8 Effect <IMPORT>, taking in a patch from another PROJECT �� 089

3-04-1 A sing-along machine <KARAOKE> preparation �� 091

3-04-2 A sing-along machine <KARAOKE> recording �� 093

4-01 Playback : Playback files (stereo, 4ch and stamina modes) ��094

4-02 Playback : <PLAY MODE> �� 095

4-03 Playback : Setting marks �� 096

4-04 Playback : <AB REPEAT> ��097

4-05 Playback : <SPEED> �� 099

4-06 Playback : <MIXER> �� 100

4-07 Playback : Playback files (MTR mode) �� 101

4-08 Playback : Appointing time with a counter ��102

5-01 Edit / Output : <FOLDER SELECT> ��103

5-02 Edit / Output : <FILE SELECT> �� 104

5-03 Edit / Output : <FILE INFORMATION> �� 105

5-04 Edit / Output : <FILE DELETE> ��106

5-05 Edit / Output : <FILE DELETE ALL> �� 107

5-06 Edit / Output : <FILE (COPY)> ��108

5-07 Edit / Output : <FILE RENAME> �� 109

5-08 Edit / Output : <FILE MP3 ENCODE> �� 111

A table of contents

005

5-09 Edit / Output : <FILE NORMALIZE> �� 112

5-10 Edit / Output : <FILE STEREO ENCODE> �� 113

5-11 Edit / Output : <MARK LIST> ��115

5-12 Edit / Output : <DIVIDE> �� 116

5-13 Edit / Output : <MOVE> ��117

5-14 Edit / Output : <NEW PROJECT> ��118

5-15 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (SELECT) > �� 119

5-16 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (DELETE) > �� 120

5-17 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (RENAME) > �� 121

5-18 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (COPY) > �� 122

5-19 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (BOUNCE) > �� 123

5-20 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (PROTECT) > �� 125

6-01 Utility : <DISPLAY BACK LIGHT> ��126

6-02 Utility : <DISPLAY CONTRAST> ��127

6-03 Utility : <BATTERY TYPE> ��128

6-04 Utility : <VERSION> �� 129

6-05 Utility : <FACTORY RESET>�� 130

6-06 Utility : <REMAIN> �� 131

6-07 Utility : <FORMAT> �� 132

6-08 Utility : <VERSION UP> �� 133

6-09 Utility: How to use H2 and H4 SD cards �� 134

Reference

Main spec list by mode �� 137

Available setting menu list by each mode �� 138

Effect types on MTR mode and the parameter ��139

H4n patch list �� 145

H4n products spec �� 147

When you think something may be wrong with your machine ��148

Index ��149

Safety precautions for users

006

Safety precautions for users

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

In this manual, the warning and caution symbols are used to highlight dangerous accidents and troubles for users to read so that accidents can be prevented. The meanings of these symbols are as follows:

If the users ignore this symbol and handle the device the wrong way, serious injury or death could result.

If the users ignore this symbol and handle the device the wrong way, bodily injury and damage to the equipment could result.

Please read through the following safety tips and precautions to ensure hazard-free use of the H4n.

Power requirements

Since power consumption of this unit is fairly high, we recommend the use of an AC adapter whenever possible. In case you use batteries, use either alkaline or nickel-metal hydride batteries.

[AC adapter operation]

• Make sure to use only an AC adapter, DC5 center plus 1A (ZOOM AD 14).The use of 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, make sure grasp the adapter itself and never pull at the cable.

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

[Battery operation]

• Use two conventional size AA-1.5 volt batteries.

• H4n cannot be used for recharging. Pay close

attention to the labeling of the batteries to make sure you choose the correct ones.

• When not using for an extended period, remove

the batteries from the unit.

• If battery leakage has occurred, wipe the battery

compartment and battery terminals carefully to remove all remnant of battery fluid.

• When using the unit, the battery compartment

cover should be closed.

Environment

To prevent unexpected troubles and malfunctions, avoid using H4n in environment where it will be exposed to:

• Extreme temperatures

• Heat sources such as radiators or stoves

• High humidity or moisture

• Excessive dust or sand

• Excessive vibration or shock

Handling

• Never place any objects filled with liquids, such

as a vase, on the H4n since this can cause electric shock.

• Never place naked flame sources, such as lighted

candles, on the H4n since this can cause fire.

• The H4n is a precision instrument. Do not exert

undue pressure on the keys and other controls. Take care not to drop, bump, and do not subject it to shock or excessive pressure, which can cause serious troubles.

• Take care that no foreign objects (coins or pins etc.) or liquids (water, alcoholic drinks and juice)can enter the unit.

• Do not place the H4n speaker closer to other precision instruments (watch and computer),

electronic medical instruments, or magnetic cards.

Connecting cables and input and output jacks

You should always turn off the power to the H4n and all other equipment before connecting or disconnecting

any cables. Make sure to disconnect all a connection

cables and the power code before moving the H4n.

Alterations

Never open the case of the H4n or attempt to

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

Volu me

Do not use the H4n at a loud volume for a long

time since this can cause hearing impairment.

USAGE PRECAUTIONS

Electrical interference

For safety considerations, the H4n has been designed to provide maximum protection against the emission of electromagnetic radiation from inside the device, and protection from external interference. However, the equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that emits powerful electromagnetic waves should not be placed near the H4n, as the possibility of interference cannot be ruled out entirely.

With any type of digital control device, the H4n 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 H4n. 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.

Copyright warnings

007

Copyright warnings

Recording of live performances

Many artists and most live venues do not allow recording and photography

and will check for cameras and recorders at the entrance. Even if recording is

allowed, it is prohibited to sell, distribute, or upload to the Internet without the

organizer’s authorization. Copyright violation is a crime.

Capturing music and sound files

Saving music to CD, MP3, or other media, reproducing files for personal use can

be considered a copyright violation.

Trademarks:

• The SD symbol and SDHC symbol are trademarks.

• The use of MPEG Layer-3 audio compression technology is licensed from Fraunhofer IIS

and Sisvel SpA.

• Windows is a registered trademark of US Microsoft Corporation.

• Mac OS and Macintosh is a trademark of Apple Inc.

• Steinberg and Cubase are registered trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH Inc.

• Names of manufacturers and products are each respective owner’s trademarks or registered.

Getting started

008

Getting started

Recording ow using the H4n

009

1-1 Recording flow using the H4n

The following is the basic ow of recording operation for the H4n. Depending on the application of the recording, you can select which

recording mode and audio quality setting is right for the situation.

Switch on

Connecting

to other audio

devices

Set-up

Select

the Mode

Set-up the

recording

method

1) The H4n has built-in microphones as well as

2 input jacks with phantom power for use with any

external microphone. A USB cable is included to

connect H4n to the computer.

The H4n is powered by AA batteries or a Plug-in

Power Source.

3) You can select your favorite

settings;

• AUTO REC

• REC LEVEL AUTO

• LO CUT

• COMP/LIMIT

• MONO MIX

• TUNER

• METRONOME

• EFFECT/PATCH

• KARAOKE and so on.

P.029

〉〉〉〉

2) You can select among 4 Modes;

STEREO, 4CH, MTR & STAMINA

suitable for different input sources

and output file formats.

STEREO Mode

4CH Mode

MTR Mode

P.037

〉〉〉〉

P.065-

〉〉〉〉

STAMINA Mode

P.019

Recording ow using the H4n

010

Edit·OutputRECORD

Playback

and conrm

RE-RECORDING

(Recording again

from scratch)

Recording on STEREO mode/ STAMINA mode………P.049

Recording on 4CH mode

……………P.053

Recording on MTR mode

……………P.055

5) The H4n has very convenient

ways to swiftly review/playback

a recording as well as marking

/finding specific sections and

repeating sections of the recording:

6) In MTR mode the punch-in/

punch-out function enables you

to re-record only the section you

want to correct.

7) The recordings are saved as

FILES and PROJECTS, and you

can edit them in various ways.

P.094-

〉〉〉〉

P.061-

〉〉〉〉

P.105 -

〉〉〉〉

•

FILE INFORMATION

•

FILE MP3 ENCODE

•

FILE STEREO ENCODE

•

DIVIDE

•

MOVE

•

BOUNCE

and so on.

• PLAY MODE

• AB REPEAT

• SPEED

• MARK LIST

and so on.

• PUNCH-IN/OUT

and so on.

Monitor the input sound rec level

Easy recording guide [STEREO MODE]

011

1-2 Easy recording guide [STEREO MODE]

The following is basic recording instructions using the built-in stereo microphones and built-in speaker in STEREO MODE.

[LEFT PANEL]

Power switch

ON

1

[POWER] switch on.

Conrm

STEREO

M O DE

2

P.038

〉〉〉〉

In case of a wrong MODE indicator or a wrong screen

RECORD READY

OR STANDBY

CONDITION

3

STEREO mode indicator

light on

[STEREO TOP SCREEN]

MIC button light on *switch on from built-in microphones.

Made new le

Input from the built-in microphones

MIC lamp lights

blinks

Press here when you want to stop.

blinks

Press.

[FRONT PANEL]

Recording standby mark

Easy recording guide [STEREO MODE]

012

ADJUST

INPUT LEVEL

START

RECORDING

STOP

RECORDING

Adjust the input sound rec level

P.094

〉〉〉〉

In detail

4 5 6

PLAYBACK

7

DECREASE

−

light on

Counter turns

Remaining time on SD CARD

Counter returns 0:00:00:00:000

light off

Pause Recording

Counter doesn’t return 0

[STOP]

[RIGHT PANEL]

Now recording mark

Press.

[BACK PANEL]

Output: Built-in speaker

Press.

[PLAYBACK]

Mark Recording

Places Mark at specific time in WAV file format

or

Press.

P.049

〉〉〉〉

In detail

INCREASE

+

Press.

Name and function of each part

013

2-1 Name and function of each part

90 / 120° Variable XY Stereo microphones (Built-in)

Backlight Equipped Display

[REC] Button

STEREO/4CH/MTR mode indicator

INPUT: Buttons for [MIC] [1], [2]

Transport Control Buttons

[FRONT PANEL] [BACK PANEL]

Threaded Tripod mount

Battery cover

A built-in mono speaker

• Short cut buttons on

STEREO/4CH mode [1] <FOLDER> [2] <FILE> [3] <SPEED>*

STEREO mode

[4] <WAV/MP3>

*STEREO/4CH mode

• On MTR mode

Buttons for TRACK [1], [2], [3], [4]

Input jacks for external stereo microphone

STAMINA mode switch

Name and function of each part

014

[BOTTOM PANEL]

DC5V AC ADAPTER jack

Optional remote-control jack

[LINE/PHONE] output jack

USB port

POWER switch HOLD switch

[LEFT PANEL]

[DIAL]

[MENU] button

REC LEVEL [ + / − ]

SD card slot

[RIGHT PANEL]

VOLUME [ + / − ]

Installed hole for a strap

XLR/STANDARD PHONE INPUT [1] jack

XLR/STANDARD PHONE INPUT [2] jack

Included Accessories

015

2-2 Included Accessories

The following accessories are included in the H4n package. Inspect the package contents to be sure all accessories are included.

SD CARD

MAIN BODY CASE

MICROPHONE STAND

ADAPTER

AC ADAPTER

(ZOOM AD-14)

USB CABLE

WINDSHIELD

Cubase LE4

Instruction manual

DAW start-up guide

Installation of the attachments and options

016

•How to use the windshield

Remote control (Option, sold separately)

P.045

〉〉〉〉

Operation of remote control

Microphone stand adapter(Accessory)

Microphone stand

•How to mount to a microphone stand

[FRONT PANEL] [SIDE PANEL]

When recording outside in

the field, covering the built-

in microphones with this

windshield, you can reduce

wind noise.

Use a microphone adapter

(optional attachment) to install

the H4n unit and the stand can

grip the adapter firmly.

Battery/Power setting

017

3 Battery/Power setting

Power for H4n recorder is supplied by the included AC adapter or batteries.

• AC power operation

An AC adapter is included.

• Battery installation

Install two size AA batteries (IEC R6)

An attached AC adapter Zoom AD-14

Use of an AC adapter other than the one included may cause trouble.

2

Insert two size AA batteries ensuring you match the polarity markings ( + and − ).

* Illustration : open the battery compartment cover and insert batteries.

1

Open the battery compartment cover.

Make sure the power is off!

Whenever you open the battery compartment

cover or plug in/unplug the AC adapter, make sure the power is off, otherwise the recording data can be destroyed.

NOTE:

Ref.

☞

Explanation about the Stamina Mode.

P.037

: Use in general (Using AC adapter, batteries) ON : Stamina Mode On (Eco-power mode when using batteries)

3

Set the Stamina Mode Switch.

* Illustration of a Stamina Switch on.

4

Close the battery compartment cover.

* Illustration of closing the battery compartment cover.

Battery/Power outlet setting

018

To measure the lifetime of the battery

The remaining lifetime of the battery is measured more precisely by using the battery type setting on the H4n.

Saving period for the setting <DATE/TIME>

Whenever power supply is off by dead battery, the H4n can save the date/time setting for three minutes. When the saving time is

over, the setting will be returned to the default value.

Screen indicator for power

HINT:

• Remaining lifetime of the battery

When “Low Battery!” indication appears, immediately

switch off unit and exchange batteries, or shift power

source to AC adapter.

When remaining battery life is getting short, “Low

Battery” indication will be shown every two seconds and the power will switch off shortly after.

FULL

EMPTY

• Battery’s approximate lifetime

Usable batteries

You can use conventional alkaline and nickel metal hydride batteries.

Power supply from USB

Connect the USB cable to the H4n while it’s already connected to

the computer with the power switch off, and power is automatically

turned on via USB bus power supply. This function is only available when the H4n is used as an SD card reader or an audio interface.

NOTE:

Alkaline battery

in general use about 6 hours

in stamina mode

use

about 11 hours

* Approximate lifetime when it is used for continuous recording on WAV 44.1 kHz/16bit format.

Using batteries Using AC adapter

Ref.

☞

P.128

Ref.

☞

P.033

Power On and Off, How to use power and hold switch

019

4-1 Power On and Off, How to use power and hold switch

[

LEFT PANEL

]

POWER switch HOLD switch

POWER ON / BOOTING UP

2

Insert SD card.

1

[Preparation] Make sure all equipment is

turned off.

4

Switch on connected instruments and monitors.

• Before switching the power on, lower

the volume of instruments and monitors connected to the H4n.

• If the display reads "N o Card" when boot-

ing up, make sure that the SD card is inserted correctly.

• If the display says "Reset DATE/TIME"

when booting up, the date and time are set to the primary value.

NOTE

When using additional audio devices, power

them on in the following order:

HINT:

Procedure for power on.

3

[Power On _ Boot up] Slide the power switch.

AMPMixerH4n

Instruments

ON ON ONON

Ref.

P.028

Power On and Off, How to use power and hold switch

020

POWER OFF / SHUT DOWN

1

[Preparation] Turn off monitors first then instruments

2

[Power Off _ Shut down] Slide the power switch.

HOLD Function

The H4n features a HOLD function to make

any button operation inactive, preventing errors

during recording.

To engage the hold function,

slide switch to hold position.

If you press any button while the HOLD

function is engaged, the screen will display

“Key Hold” for two seconds. To disengage

the HOLD mode, slide power switch out of

hold position.

HINT

Procedure for power off

AMP

OFF

Mixer

OFF

Instruments

OFF

H4n

OFF

* shut down screen

* ‘Key Hold’ display

How to use the [REC] and transport control buttons

021

4-2 How to use the [REC] and transport control buttons

Buttons like [REC], [STOP], [PLAY/PAUSE], [FF], [REW] each have different functions depending on the H4n’s operation MODE.

STEREO/4CH/STAMINA MODE MTR MODE

[FRONT PANEL]

transport control buttons

[REC] button

Set to overwrite recording

Playback

Stops recording and resets the counter

Record, Recording Standby

Stop recording

(You can continue playback while recording)

Stop

Engages recording standby mode

Stops recording and counter

Stop

Recording in ALWAYS NEW mode

Starts recording and counter

Recording Standby

[REC] button

Ente r recordi ng standb y mode and reset the counter to 0

Stop

Start recording and counter

Recording Standby

Place a mark (WAV FILE only)

Record

Playback

[STOP] button

Stop recording and the counter stops

Recording

Stop playback and the counter stops

Playback

Stop each movement

Recording-pause

Playback-pause

[FF] [REW] buttons

Stop

Playback

Playback-pause

[FF] : Moves forward through file in one second increments

[REW]:

Returns to the begining of the file

Press for less than one second

Scans through file in forward or reverse direction.

Press for more than one second

[FF], [REW] buttons

Stop

Playback

Playback-pause

Scans through file in forward or reverse direction. The longer the button is pressed, the faster the scanning speed. Fast Forward or Rewind will stop at the beginning or end of the file.

Press for more than one second

[FF] move to next file [REW] returns to the begining of the file * However if there is a marker in a WAV file,

the button moves to the marking place.

Press for less than one second

[STOP] button

Stop recording and reset counter

Recording, recording standby, Recording-pause

Stop playback and counter

Playback-pause

[PLAY/PAUSE] button

Start playback and counter

Stop

Pause or restart recording

Recording, Recording-pause

Pause or restart playback

Playback-pause

Start recording and counter

recording standby

TRANSPORT CONTROL BUTTONS

[PLAY/PAUSE] button

Pause Playback

Playback

Starts playback

Stop

Recording

In OVERWRITE mode: No function In ALWAYS NEW mode: pause recording

Starts recording and counter

Recording standby

How to use the track [1], [2], [3] and [4] buttons

022

4-3

How to use the track [1], [2], [3] and [4] buttons

The buttons of TRACK [1] – [4] have different functions depending on the MODE.

STEREO/4CH/STAMINA MODE

Move to the

<FOLDER SELECT> menu

Move to the <FILE> menu

Move to the <SPEED> menu

(only STEREO MODE)

Move to the <REC FORMAT> menu

(STEREO MODE, 4CH MODE)

TRACK [1]–[4]

[Front Panel]

MTR MODE

Make settings of the track and the input source

* track #3 and #4 are

the same

Select two tracks

* track #2-#4 are the

same, press the number you select

Select only one track

Switch from ‘RECORDING’ to ‘PLAYBACK’ of the tracks, or the other way around

When you start recording, press the track number you want to record and the track becomes ‘Recording Standby’ status.

That track button will then become illuminated.

These operations are not available during recording and playback.

After selecting the track, use the input source buttons to select

the input for that track.Using the INPUT button you can record

in mono, stereo or a combination of those.

* Those operations are not valid

during recording and playback.

* Input selections are

those four different combinations.

For stereo input you

select from [MIC] and [1] [2]

For a mono input you can select either from [1] or [2]

How to use the input [MIC], [1] and [2] buttons

023

4-4 How to use the input [MIC], [1] and [2] buttons

These buttons have different functions depending on the various modes.

[FRONT PANEL]

INPUT [1] & [2] buttons

STEREO/STAMINA MODE

Select INPUT [MIC] or INPUT [1] [2] and the corresponding button lights up.

Whether you select the INPUT [1] or INPUT [2] button, they will both respond the same

Both buttons light up after the selection. (Once lighted the buttons do not respond)

Any other settings about input sources like [REC LEVEL, should be made to the lighted target.

* When the presently selected input clips its button will blink.

4CH MODE

Use all input sources like [MIC], [1] and [2] = All [MIC], [1] and [2] light on.

When you switch to 4CH, H4n will receive 2- system stereo inputs from [MIC] and [1] [2]

altogether. When you press the lighted button, each shows its input level and you can make

adjustment to recording level operating [REC LEVEL].

* When the input clips the corresponding button blinks.

MTR MODE

Select [MIC], [1] and [2] individually and the corresponding button lights up.

You can select individually INPUT [MIC], [1] and [2]

• When you use built-in and the external stereo microphones, select INPUT [MIC].

• When you make stereo input using the external input jack, select both INPUT [1] and [2].

You press either INPUT [1] or [2] button and then press another button.

*

When the selected input clips its button blinks.

What is clipping?

HINT:

The input level reaches up to the maximum which the H4n can record, that is 0 dB. In this case the recording sound can be distorted and need adjustment of recording level.

How to use REC LEVEL and VOLUME

024

4-5 How to use REC LEVEL and VOLUME

These keys allow you to adjust the levels of recording input and output volume. (All the modes are the same)

‘REC LEVEL’ IN ANY MODE

The recording levels coming from the INPUT [1] & [2] can

be adjusted from 1 to 100 with the (+/−) key.

Press the ‘REC LEVEL’ = Adjusting

[LEFT PANEL]

Output volume from the built-in speaker and output

jacks can be adjusted from 0 to 100 with the (+/−) key.

Press the ‘VOL’ = Adjusting

[VOLUME] IN ANY MODE

REC LEVEL

[RIGHT PANEL]

VOLUME

1 _ 100 + : Increase reception

level (amplify)

− : Decrease reception level (reduce)

Target setting:

Press INPUT [MIC], [1] and [2] buttons and

select the input source which you want to adjust the recording level.

0 _ 100

+ : Increase Volume

− : Decrease Volume

4-6 How to use [DIAL] and [MENU] buttons

How to use [DIAL] and [MENU] buttons

025

The basic operation for [DIAL]

Rotate the [DIAL], and the cursor on the display will move along the [DIAL]

Rotate the [DIAL] = select an item

Press down [DIAL], your selection is confirmed.

➞

for additional selections, move on to the next screen.

➞

When you complete selections, the screen returns back to the previous one.

Press in the [DIAL] = conrm the selection

[DIAL] and [MENU] buttons are used for various settings while recording and during playback. Here are some basic explanations about each operation.

[RIGHT PANEL]

[

MENU]button

The basic operation for [MENU] button

When setting recording or playback method, Press [MENU] button at the top screen

of each mode.

Calling [MENU] screen

If you press the [MENU] button during any setting operation, its operation will be

canceled and the screen returns back to the previous one.

To cancel setting operation and to return back to the top screen of the each mode,

press [MENU] button for more than 2 seconds.

Canceling the setting

Select

Press

Select

Long Press

[

DIAL

]

How to use [DIAL] and [MENU] buttons

026

The operation when [ ] cursor is on display (Date·Time Setting, Changing File Name Directory, etc)

The operation when the selections are listed on screen

About the ‘⁄’ on the selection lists

When you see

this display, there are more selections on the

next screen. Highlight arrow and press

[DIAL] in to move on to the next screen.

When you rotate the [DIAL], [ ] moves accordingly.

[ ] move accordingly.

Pressing [DIAL] in, change the numbers and letters.

The item letters or numbers are reversed

→

Rotate [DIAL] to

change the numbers and letters→Press

[DIAL] down to confirm

your selection.

[ ] move accordingly.

Push [DIAL] in, to confirm your selection.

the screen returns back to the previous one.

By rotating the [DIAL], the selection lists will move accordingly.

[DIAL] operation on the top screen

Moving [DIAL] on

the top screen, 'cursor' moves.

Pressing (highlight)

[ ] selects 'COUNTER' to enable ad-

justment or calls up the setting menu.

* Available only on MTR mode.

2

Push the SD card in to remove it from the slot.

Insert a SD card

027

5-1 Insert a SD card

The SD card is required to record. Make sure to turn off power before inserting or removing the SD card.

1

Make sure power is off.

2

Insert the SD card into

the slot.

[How to install the SD card]

SD card capacity time to record (approx.)

4GB SDHC card Recording time

WAV 44.1 kHz/16 bits

(measured in terms of stereo track)

approx. 380 minutes

MP3 44.1 kHz/128 kbps

(measured in terms of stereo track)

approx. 68 hours

[How to remove the SD card]

1

Make sure power is off.

POWER OFF !

Never insert or remove the SD card while the power is on. This may destroy the data.

CAUTIONS WHEN INSERTING SD CARD

• You can use 16MB to 32GB SD cards. For a list of operation certified SD cards please refer to ZOOM’s website:

http://www.zoom.co.jp/

• When you use the SD card for your computer, digital camera or other machine, formatting in the H4n is required.

• When “No Card” is seen on the display at boot-up, check if the SD card is correctly

inserted.

• When “Format Card” is seen on the display at booting-up, this means the SD card has

not been formatted in the H4n. To format,

press [DIAL] down and select OK button.

• When the booting-up screen says “Card Protect”, the card is covered with OVERWRITE PROTECT. To release this protect slide the lock switch of the SD card.

"Warning" no SD card in

when booting - up.

This “Warning” will show when an SD card is not in

a recognized format. Select

<YES> to format card and all

of the data will be deleted.

NOTE:

Ref.

☞

To use SD card for H2/H4

P.13 4

Set date and time <DATE/TIME>

028

5-2 Set date and time <DATE/TIME>

Each file will automatically record the date/time. To facilitate searching for files by date, be sure to set the date/time after every battery change.

1

Press.

2

Select <SYSTEM> and press.

3

Select <DATE/TIME> and press.

5

Select <OK> and press.

4

Set YEAR➝MONTH➝DAY➝TIME (Time: Minute: Second)

Select the item on <DATE/TIME>:

You can select the item while moving [ ] of the [DIAL].

[Change the figure number]:

You can select the number by rotating the [DIAL].

Press the [DIAL] in

* The selected item values are highlighted.

Press the [DIAL] in

* [ ] comes out on display.

When “Reset DATE/TIME” is seen

during boot-up, the date/time needs to be set.

NOTE:

• When there is no power source

connected for more than three

minutes, the DATE/TIME setting

will return to the default value.

• You cannot use this setting during

recording and playback.

Setting up: How to connect external audio devices

029

6-1 Setting up: How to connect external audio devices

The H4n offers versatile connectivity with options for any recording application.

Remote control (option)

Headphones

Mixer

USB

Personal computer (PC)

Stereo

microphones

SD card

INPUT: instrument (microphone)

INPUT: instrument (keyboard)

H4n’s very own AC adapter

INPUT: instrument (guitar)

Monitor

Zoom H4n User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual