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Operation Manual English © ZOOM Corporation Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS / Usage Precautions 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 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 the equipment could result. Warning · High humidity or moisture · Excessive dust or sand · Excessive vibration or shock Handling · Never place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on 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. Warning Caution Please observe the following safety tips and precautions to ensure hazard-free use of the H4. Caution Connecting cables and input and output jacks 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. Power requirements Warning Since power consumption of this unit is fairly high, we 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. Alterations Warning Never open the case of the H4 or attempt to modify the product in any way since this can result in damage to the unit. Volume Caution Do not use the H4 at a loud volume for a long time 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. [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. 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. Environment Warning To prevent the risk of fire, electric shock or malfunction, avoid using your H4 in environments where it will be exposed to: · Extreme temperatures · Heat sources such as radiators or stoves Please keep this manual in a convenient place for future reference. 2 ZOOM H4 Contents SAFETY PRECAUTIONS / Usage Precautions ............................................2 Overview ...................................................5 Introducing the H4 ...................................6 Stereo Mode and 4-Track Mode ........... 6 Mixer Functions ..................................... 7 Effects .................................................... 7 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 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 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 Recording ...............................................12 Setup .................................................... 12 Recording steps .................................. 12 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 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 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 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 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 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 ZOOM H4 3 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 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 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 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 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 · 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. SD card operations ..............................83 Checking available space on the SD card ......................................................83 Initializing an SD card .............................84 About the software version .................84 4 ZOOM H4 Overview Thank you for selecting the ZOOM Handy Recorder H4 (subsequently referred to simply as the "H4"). 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 H4 5 Introducing the H4 This section explains the main features and functions of the H4. 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 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 Stereo mode Input 1 Input 2 Built-in stereo mic or [INPUT 1] jack [INPUT 2] jack 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. Recorder L stereo track R stereo track Recorder Track 1 Input 1 Input 2 Input mixer Track 2 Track 3 Track 4 Built-in stereo mic or [INPUT 1] jack [INPUT 2] jack 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 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 SD card Dedicated stereo mode folder Project 2 folder Files recorded in 4-track mode for project 2 are saved here Project 3 folder 6 ZOOM H4 Introducing the H4 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. Track 1 Input 1 Input 2 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) MIC MODEL COMP/LIMIT Input mixer Track 2 Track 3 Track 4 Recorder Track mixer (for volume and panning) [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. 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 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 Recorder L stereo track R stereo track Effect section 4-track mode Input 1 Input 2 Recorder Track 1 Input mixer Effect section Track 2 Track 3 Track 4 ZOOM H4 7 Parts of the H4 Left side panel Top panel Built-in stereo mic [LINE OUTPUT] jack [PHONES] jack [PHONES LEVEL] knob [POWER] switch [USB] port [REC] key Display TRACK [1] ­ [4] keys [MENU] key [MODE] indicator [ACCESS] indicator Rear panel [INPUT 1] jack [INPUT 2] jack [DC IN] jack 8 ZOOM H4 Parts of the H4 (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. (3) Flip the cover open in the forward direction. (1) (2) (3) Opening the battery compartment cover Battery compartment cover (1) (2) (2) Jog dial [MIC GAIN] switch [INPUT 2 GAIN] switch [INPUT 1 GAIN] switch (3) [SD CARD] slot Battery Battery Right side panel ZOOM H4 Front panel 9 Getting Connected To monitor the output of the H4 with a stereo audio system, use a Y cable connected to the [LINE OUTPUT] jack. 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 Monitor system 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. AC adapter H4 rear panel 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. Bass Guitar Mic Keyboard The [INPUT 1]/[INPUT 2] jacks can be used to connect external equipment such as a mic, bass, guitar, or keyboard. About SD Cards 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. 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). SD [SD CARD] slot SD card · If an operation requiring an SD card is attempted while no SD card is inserted, the indication "No Card" appears. 10 ZOOM H4 Operation on Battery Power The H4 can be powered from batteries which must be purchased separately. Insert the batteries as follows. 1. Open the battery compartment cover as described on page 9. 2. Insert two IEC R6 (size AA) batteries. 3. Close the battery compartment cover. NOTE · When the unit is operated on batteries, the 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. Power On/Off Use the following procedure to turn the H4 on and off. monitoring system. Power-on 1. Verify that power to the H4 and any peripheral equipment is off. Power-off 1. Turn power to other equipment off in the order monitoring system connected instruments. Turn down the volume control on connected instruments, the H4, and the monitoring system. 2. Insert the SD card into the [SD CARD] slot ( p. 10). 2. 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. 3. 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 ZOOM H4 11 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. Setup To record on-mic, place the sound source at about 30 to 50 centimeters from the H4. On-mic recording pick up the sound of footsteps, drum vibrations etc. You should therefore place the H4 on a table or a chair, or use a tripod with the supplied adapter. Recording steps 1. Turn power to the H4 on. The [MODE] indicator lights up. Verify that the H4 is set to stereo mode. Stereo mode Built-in stereo mic Sound source 2. 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 Lit If the [MODE] indicator is out, the H4 is in 4-track mode. Switch it to stereo mode ( p. 30). 3. 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. 12 ZOOM H4 Recording 4. 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. 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) [MIC GAIN] switch setting Setting L M H 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. 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. HINT You can fine adjust the recording level manually or automatically ( p. 31, 33). 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). 5. 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. 7. 8. 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 (@) of the [MENU] key. To check the recorded content, press the top (@) of the [MENU] key. 9. Input level 6. To obtain optimum volume levels, set the [MIC GAIN] switch so that the meter indication on the display stays just below 0. The recorded content is played back via the [LINE OUTPUT] jack and [PHONES] jack. ZOOM H4 13 Quick Guide 1 Stereo mode basic operation 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. Preparations before recording Starting the H4 Adjusting the input sensitivity/ recording level To record the input signal with optimum quality, the input sensitivity and recording level must be adjusted correctly. 1. 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 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. 2. 1. Use the [MIC GAIN] switch on the right side panel to adjust the input sensitivity ( page 13). If the [MODE] indicator is out, the H4 is in 4track mode. Switch it to stereo mode ( p. 30). 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. 2. 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 14 ZOOM H4 Quick Guide 1 Stereo mode basic operation [MENU] key functions in stereo mode Press top (@) of [MENU] key Start/stop recorder playback. Hold down left part (U) of [MENU] key Fast-reverse from current point in 1-second increments. Hold down right part (I) of [MENU] key Fast-forward 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 right part (I) of [MENU] key Select next file. Press bottom (INPUT MENU) of [MENU] key Press center of [MENU] key Display main menu for various settings (or return to immediately preceding screen). Display INPUT menu for making various input related settings. the [MENU] key at the top screen of the stereo mode, the following INPUT menu appears. 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. 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. 4. 3. Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the "AUTO GAIN" item, then press the jog dial inwards. 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 ( p. 31). · 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. 13). The jog dial on the right side panel allows the following two actions. Move up/down Pushing the jog dial up or 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. Move up/down Press 5. Press the center of the [MENU] key to return to the stereo mode top screen. ZOOM H4 15 Quick Guide 1 Stereo mode basic operation 6. At the stereo mode top screen, press the [REC] key. change the characteristics of the built-in stereo mic. HINT The mic simulation effects are available only when using the built-in stereo mic. 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. 1. 7. Point the mic(s) at the performers and have them play at the loudest level. At the stereo mode top screen, press the bottom of the [MENU] key. The INPUT menu for making various input related settings appears. 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. 2. Bring the cursor to the "COMP/ LIMIT" item and press the jog dial. The COMP/LIMIT (compressor/limiter) module settings can now be made. Currently selected input source Automatically set recording level 8. To cancel the recording standby condition, press the left part (U), right part (I), or top (@) of the [MENU] key. 3. 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. 16 ZOOM H4 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. [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. · 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. 4. 5. 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. Recording To record in stereo mode, proceed as follows. 1. 6. Move the jog dial up/down to change the MIC MODEL module settings. The following microphone simulation settings are available. · OFF (default) At the stereo mode top screen, use the TRACK [1] ­ [4] keys to select the recording format ( p. 13). Press the [REC] key. 2. 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. 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 7. 8. 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 ZOOM H4 17 Quick Guide 1 Stereo mode basic operation the recording standby condition. Name of currently selected file 3. To start recording, press the [REC] key once more. If required, you can use the metronome function while recording ( p. 77). 4. To stop recording, press the [REC] key, or press the top (@) of the [MENU] key. 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 ( p. 72). 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.) 2. Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to the file name. Then press the jog dial. File selection is now possible. 3. Move the jog dial up/down to select a file. All files recorded in stereo mode are shown in turn. Selecting a file for playback 4. 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. To accept the file selection, press the jog dial. To play the selected file, press the top (@) of the [MENU] key. 5. The file selected in step 3 is played back. 1. Verify that the display shows the stereo mode top screen. 6. To stop playback, press the top (@) of the [MENU] key once more. 18 ZOOM H4 Quick Guide 2 4-track mode basic operation 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 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. 2. Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to "MODE". Then press the jog dial. The MODE SELECT screen appears. 1. At the stereo mode top screen, press the center of the [MENU] key. 3. 4. Move the jog dial up/down to bring the cursor to "4TRACK RECORDER". Press the jog dial. The main menu for making various settings appears. The H4 switches to 4-track mode and the [MODE] indicator goes out. The display automatically changes to the 4-track mode top screen. ZOOM H4 19 Quick Guide 2 4-track mode basic operation press the jog dial. The default name for the new project is shown. 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. Name for project to be created HINT You can change the name of the project at this point ( p. 55), or you can change it later ( p. 56). 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. 4. 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.