Dickinson College Media Center

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Zoom H4n Pro Audio Recorder Tutorial

The Zoom H4n Pro is a portable, high-quality audio recorder used for interviews, podcasts, music recording, and field audio. It features built-in stereo microphones and external microphone inputs, making it flexible for a wide range of recording situations where clear, professional sound matters.

This tutorial will help you record audio using the built-in microphones and save your files for later use.

1. Getting Started

  • Insert an SD card into the side of the recorder
  • Insert fresh AA batteries or connect the power adapter
  • Slide the Power switch to turn the recorder on
  • Wait for the unit to fully boot

The recorder cannot save audio without an SD card installed.

2. Choosing a Recording Mode

  • Press the Mode button
  • Select Stereo Mode for most basic recordings
    • This uses the built-in microphones
  • Press the jog wheel to confirm

Stereo Mode is ideal for interviews, voice recordings, and ambient sound.

3. Positioning the Built-In Microphones

  • The H4n Pro has adjustable X/Y stereo microphones on top
  • Angle them toward the sound source
  • Place the recorder:
    • On a table
    • On a small tripod
    • Or handheld (as still as possible)

Keep the microphones pointed toward the speaker for best results.

4. Setting Input Levels

  • Press the Record button once
    • The meters will activate (standby mode)
  • Speak at normal volume
  • Use the + / – buttons to adjust recording level
  • Aim for levels that peak around –12 dB to –6 dB

Avoid levels hitting 0 dB, which causes distortion.

5. Recording Audio

  • Press the Record button again to start recording
  • The timer will begin counting
  • Remain as still as possible during recording
  • Press Stop when finished

Your audio file will automatically save to the SD card.

6. Playing Back Your Recording

  • Press the Play button
  • Use the jog wheel to select your file
  • Adjust playback volume using the side buttons

Always check your recording before leaving the space.

7. Using External Microphones (Optional)

  • Plug microphones into Input 1 or Input 2 (XLR or ¼”)
  • Press the Input button to enable the correct inputs
  • Adjust levels for each input separately
  • Monitor sound using headphones if available

External microphones provide better control for interviews and studio-style recordings.

8. Transferring Files to a Computer

  • Power off the recorder
  • Remove the SD card and insert it into a computer
    • Or connect the recorder via USB
  • Copy audio files to your computer for editing

Files are typically saved as WAV or MP3, depending on settings.

Helpful Tips

  • Always do a short test recording before starting
  • Monitor audio with headphones when possible
  • Record in quiet spaces to avoid background noise
  • Bring extra batteries for longer sessions
  • Label files immediately after transferring them

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