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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

2. Choosing a Recording Mode

  • Press the Menu button located on the right side of the device
  • Use the wheel on the side to navigate to Mode
  • Select Stereo and press the wheel to confirm

3. Positioning the Built-In Microphones

The H4n Pro has adjustable X/Y stereo microphones on top.

  • Make sure those on pointed in the direction of your source
  • Decide if you want the mics to pick up a wider area (120) or focus in more (90) by turning the mics
  • Then, place the recorder on a table or a small tripod, or hold if necessary

4. Setting Input Levels

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

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

6. Playing Back Your Recording

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

7. Using External Microphones (Optional)

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

  • Plug microphones into Input 1 or Input 2 (XLR or ¼”) or into the 1/8″ external microphone
  • Press the Input button to enable the correct inputs
  • Adjust levels for each input separately
  • Monitor sound using headphones if available

8. Transferring Files to a Computer

  • Power off the recorder
  • Remove the SD card and insert it into a computer using an SD card reader
    • Or connect the recorder via USB
    • Files are typically saved as WAV or MP3, depending on settings
  • Copy audio files to your computer for editing

Helpful Tips

  • Always do a short test recording before starting
  • Remember to have the microphones pointed towards the source (speaker)
  • Monitor audio with headphones when possible
  • Record in quiet spaces to avoid background noise
  • Bring extra batteries for longer sessions

The below video walks you through the basics of setting up and using the Zoom H4n Pro Recorder.

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