Zoom PodTrak P4 User manual

P4
You must read the Usage and Safety Precautions before use.
Operation Manual
© 2020 ZOOM CORPORATION
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Notes about this Operation Manual
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The contents of this document and the specications of the product could be changed without notice.
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2

Introduction
Thank you very much for purchasing the ZOOM P4 PodTrak.
The P4 is a multitrack recorder designed for podcasting. Even beginners can start recording high quality audio
right away just by connecting mics and headphones. We also recommend the P4 to veteran podcasters as a
compact combination of useful recording functions. We hope you enjoy recording episodes in bedrooms, on
café terraces and at all kinds of places.
Main features of the P4
Use your favorite mics for recording
The high-quality built-in mic preamps support not only dynamic mics but also condenser mics that require
phantom power (+48 V). Enjoy recording using your favorite mics.
Multitrack recorder supports recording up to four channels at the same time
The levels of the 4 mic inputs can be adjusted for the voices of the participants.The 4 headphone outputs allow
everyone participating to monitor the sound that is being recorded. In addition to a stereo le ready to be used
for podcasting, the recorded data includes separate les for the audio of each channel that can be utilized for
editing after recording.
Power options enable recording anywhere
In addition to using an AC adapter, the P4 can be powered by 2 AA batteries or a USB mobile battery, enabling
use outdoors and other places without power sources.
Remote recording
If all the podcasters cannot gather in one place or you want to invite guests who are far away, you can use
smartphones and computers to enable remote participation in recording. A Mix Minus function prevents
echoes from occurring in the audio of remote participants. By connecting an optional wireless adapter (BTA-2),
smartphones can be connected wirelessly to the P4.
Instant playback of jingles and recorded interviews
The SOUND PAD section has 4 buttons that can be used for real-time playback of audio les, including built-in
sounds. Make the most of this function to enhance your podcasts and live streams.
Live streaming
The 2-in/2-out USB audio interface functions of the P4 can be used for live streaming and recording with
computers, smartphones and tablets. Since it supports class compliant mode, installation of a dedicated driver
is not necessary.
Optional accessory pack
We have prepared an optional Podcast Mic Pack with related accessories, including a dynamic mics (ZDM-1)
and headphones (ZHP-1), along with software useful for editing on a computer after recording.
3

Notes about this Operation Manual������ 2
Introduction����������������� 3
Contents ������������������ 4
Podcasting with the P4 ����������� 5
P4 overview����������������� 6
Functions of parts ������������� 6
Connection examples ����������� 9
Use examples �������������� 10
Explanation of terms ����������� 11
Signal ow ��������������� 12
Home Screen overview���������� 13
Basic Menu Screen operations ������ 13
Making preparations������������ 14
Inserting SD cards ������������ 14
Providing power ������������� 15
Turning the power on ���������� 16
Setting the date and time
(rst time starting up) ���������� 17
Connecting ���������������� 18
Connecting mics������������� 18
Connecting headphones ��������� 19
Connecting smartphones ��������� 20
Connecting a BTA-2 (dedicated wireless
adapter)����������������� 21
Connecting a computer, smartphone or tablet
by USB ����������������� 22
Recording����������������� 23
Adjusting input levels ���������� 23
Making mic settings (Mic Settings) ���� 24
Recording ���������������� 25
Playing recordings������������� 26
Playing recordings ������������ 26
Selecting les and playing them ����� 27
Changing the names of recorded les���� 29
Deleting les ��������������� 30
Transferring les to a computer, smartphone or
tablet������������������� 31
Transferring les to a computer, smartphone
or tablet����������������� 31
P4 folder and le structure �������� 32
Using SOUND PAD functions�������� 33
Assigning audio les to SOUND PAD
buttons ����������������� 33
Playing SOUND PAD buttons ������� 34
Setting playback methods for each
SOUND PAD��������������� 35
Adjusting the levels of each SOUND PAD � 37
Using as an audio interface��������� 38
Connecting a computer, smartphone or
tablet ������������������ 38
Inputting USB audio return on channel 4 � 39
Setting USB Mix Minus ��������� 40
Modifying the date and time �������� 41
Setting the type of batteries used������ 42
Adjusting the display contrast ������� 43
Setting the Auto Power Off function����� 44
Testing SD cards�������������� 45
Formatting SD cards ������������ 49
Restoring factory default settings������ 50
Updating the rmware����������� 51
Error message list ������������� 52
Troubleshooting�������������� 54
General ����������������� 54
Audio interface ������������� 55
Specications��������������� 56
Contents
4

Podcasting with the P4
1. Prepare and conrm
connections
●Preparation
Install an SD card in the P4, provide it power, and set the date and time.
●Connecting and checking
Connect microphones and headphones.
• By using a single mic for each person, levels can be adjusted to suit each voice,
enabling clear recording of all voices.
• Adjust the distance between the participants and their mics and set each of their
input levels according to their volumes so that they can be recorded at stable levels.
• Mute input channels that are not being used to prevent noise from being picked up.
• Headphones are necessary to not only conrm the inputs from the mics, but
also to hear the sounds of SOUND PAD playback and the voices of guests
participating remotely.
If a guest in a distant location is participating remotely in recording, connect the
P4 to a computer, smartphone or tablet.
• The smartphone connector is designed to prevent echo when used. When using
the USB port for this, turn on USB Mix Minus.
Conrm the levels and other settings of the SOUND PAD buttons, which can
be used for one-touch playback of background music, jingles and other sounds
during recording.
●Countermeasures for environmental noise in recording locations
• Attaching windscreens to mics can reduce noise caused by wind blowing.
Adjust the directions of mics so that they do not point toward other sources of
environmental noise.
• Touching mics and power cables during recording could result in handling noise
that sounds like crackling. Use mic stands and put cables in order beforehand.
Placing mic cables and power cables too close together can result in noise being
picked up.
• Enabling the Lo Cut function in the
P4
Mic Settings menu can reduce the amount
of vibration, wind and other noise picked up by mics.
2.Record
●Recording theme
To enable recording conversations at a good pace, conrm the content of the
discussion with the other participants and prepare reference materials and other
resources so that they are at hand.
●Speaking tips
Try to speak clearly while avoiding making sibilant (hissing s) and plosive (p and d)
sounds too loud.
●SOUND PAD buttons
Use these to add excitement to programs with jingles and effects.
3.Publish
●Publish
The FileTransfer menu can be used to connect to a computer, smartphone or
tablet and transfer recorded les. Upload them to the podcasting service* or
server you are using.
*Services that provide servers for saving podcast les
●Editing before publish
Using audio mastering software, for example, to adjust periods of silence and to
add effects could enhance the podcast.
The les recorded for each channel by the
P4
are perfect for mixing in a DAW.
5

P4 overview
Functions of parts
■To p
INPUT knobs 1–4
INPUT SELECT
switches 1–4
MUTE buttons 1–4
SOUND PAD A–D
SOUND PAD knob
PHONES knobs 1–4
Display
PLAY indicator
REC indicator
MENU button
PLAY/PAUSE/ button
STOP/ button
REC/ENTER button
INPUT knobs 1–4
Use to adjust input signal levels.
INPUT SELECT switches 1–4
Set these according to the connected equipment.
Dynamic mic
Condenser mic (supplies +48 V phantom power)
Smartphone, etc.
USB audio return signal output from computer, smartphone or tablet
MUTE buttons 1–4
Use to mute (lit) and unmute (unlit) signals.
SOUND PAD A–D
Use these to play the sounds assigned to them.
6

SOUND PAD knob
Use to adjust SOUND PAD levels.
PHONES knobs 1–4
Use to adjust the volumes of signals output from PHONES jacks 1–4.
Display
This shows the recorder status and Menu Screen.
When the P4 is running on battery power, the display will automatically dim if it is not operated for 15
seconds. Operating the unit will restore the display to its normal brightness.
PLAY indicator
This lights during playback and blinks when paused.
REC indicator
This lights during recording and blinks when recording is paused.
MENU button
Use to open the Menu Screen and to return to the previous screen.
PLAY/PAUSE/
button
Use to play/pause recorded les.
Use to move the cursor up on the Menu Screen.
STOP/
button
Use to stop recording/playback.
Use to move the cursor down on the Menu Screen.
REC/ENTER button
Use to start/stop recording.
Use to conrm a selection on the Menu Screen.
■Back/front
INPUT jacks 1–4 PHONES jacks 1–4
INPUT jacks 1–4
These input jacks have built-in mic preamps.
PHONES jacks 1–4
These output the signals adjusted by PHONES knobs 1–4.
7

■Left/Right
SD card slot Power supply USB port (Type-C) USB port (Type-C)
BTA-2 power supply connector Smartphone connection jack Power switch
SD card slot
Cards that conform to SDHC and SDXC specications are supported.
Format the SD card with the P4 before use. ( “Formatting SD cards” on page 49)
Power supply USB port (Type-C)
This power supply USB port is for connecting an AC adapter or portable battery.
USB port (Type-C)
This USB port is for connecting with a computer, smartphone or tablet.
BTA-2 power supply connector
Use this power supply connector when connecting a BTA-2 wireless adapter.
Smartphone connection jack
By using a 4-contact mini-plug cable, the signal from a smartphone can be input on channel 3 while the
signal mixed on the P4 (excluding the channel 3 signal) is returned to the smartphone simultaneously.
Power switch
This turns the power on and off.
8

Connection examples
SD card
Wireless adapter (ZOOM BTA-2)
This enables wireless connection
to smartphones and tablets.
AC adapter
(ZOOM AD-17)
Computer, smartphone or tablet
Using the audio interface function,
audio can be shared with a computer,
smartphone or tablet, and recordings on
the SD card can be transferred for editing.
This might not be usable with some
communication apps.
Smartphone
Guests can participate in
podcasts by phone.
Headphones
USBType-C
port
USBType-C
port
Mics
Dynamic and condenser mics
9

Use examples
Using on location
By using the P4 with batteries or a portable battery, audio can be recorded on location.The recorded
audio is saved on an SD card and can be transferred to a computer, smartphone or tablet for editing and
distribution.
Using for live streaming
By connecting a P4 to a computer, smartphone or tablet, you can use it to stream audio in real time.
Internet
10

Explanation of terms
Audio interface
The P4 enables sounds from mics and instruments, for example, to be input to a computer, smartphone
or tablet. It can also output sounds from that device to speakers and headphones.
USB audio return
When the P4 is connected as an audio interface, this is the signal output from the computer, smartphone
or tablet. Background music can be played from the connected device.
SOUND PAD buttons
Audio les can be assigned to these. Press one to play the assigned le.These are convenient to play
opening and closing music, jingles, and interviews that have been recorded in advance.
USB Mix Minus
When using the P4 as an audio interface, this can prevent feedback to a person participating in a call
through the connected device.
Podcasting
This is one way to share audio les publicly on the Internet. Podcasters make contents and distribute
them via the Internet so people can listen easily on smartphones, computers and other devices.
Dynamic mic
This type of mic does not require phantom power and is strong and durable.
Condenser mic
This type of mic usually has high sensitivity and can capture audio with high quality. Phantom power
supply is necessary for use.
11

Signal ow
INPUT 4 Lo Cut Limiter
MUTE
INPUT 3 Lo Cut Limiter
MUTE
INPUT 2 Lo Cut Limiter
MUTE
INPUT 1 Lo Cut Limiter
MUTE
TRACK 1
TRACK 2
TRACK 3
TRACK 4
SOUND PAD
L/R
Smartphone
connection jack
USB port
Channel 1
Channel 2
Channel 3
Channel 4
Signal ow
Input sound. Channels 1 and 2 can be used to input sound from mics. Channel 3 can be used to input sound
from a mic or smartphone. Channel 4 can be used to input sound from a mic or the USB audio return.
Adjust the input levels of each channel.
Make settings for mic inputs on each channel. Lo Cut cuts unnecessary low frequencies, and Limiter
suppresses input levels that are too high. Lo Cut and Limiter are only applied to sounds from mic input.
Mute/unmute channels. Inputs not being used can be muted.
Play SOUND PAD sounds and adjust their levels.
Separate recording les are made for each channel and the SOUND PAD sounds.
A recording le is made for podcasting. This combines all channels and the SOUND PAD sounds (through the
master channel) into a stereo le.
Monitor the sound of the recording for podcasting through headphones. The volume can be adjusted separately
for each pair of headphones.
A mix of all channels is output to the connected smartphone. The sound from the connected smartphone
itself, however, is not sent back to it.
A mix of all channels is output to the computer, smartphone or tablet connected by USB. When the USB Mix
Minus setting ( page 40) is On, the sound input through channel 4 (the USB audio return) is not included.
12

Home Screen overview
This screen appears on the display when the P4 power is turned on.
This shows the P4 conditions, including recording status and input levels.
Time display
This shows either the current elapsed recording time or the available
recording time.
Channel names and level meters
These show the names of the
channels and their current input
levels.
Master level meters
These show the output
signal levels.
Status icon
This shows the
recording status.
Stopped
Recording
Paused
Remaining battery charge
When the remaining battery charge
becomes low, replace the batteries or
connect an AC adapter or portable battery.
Full Empty
Basic Menu Screen operations
Use the Menu Screen to make settings, including for recording and the SOUND PAD buttons.
This opens the Menu Screen.
This conrms selections.
Menu Screen
This shows Menu items.
A scroll bar appears at the right edge if
there are more items than can be shown
on the display.
Use to select the item above and to select the item below.
In this Operation Manual, Menu item names are shown with a gray background. (Example: Files)
On the Menu Screen, press to select the item above, and press to select the item below. Press
to conrm the selected item.
■Returning to the Home Screen
To return to the Home Screen, press repeatedly until it appears.
■Returning to the previous screen
Press to return to the previous screen.
13

Making preparations
Inserting SD cards
SD card slot
POWER switch
1. With the power off, open the SD card slot cover, and insert an SD card all the way into the slot.
To remove an SD card, push it further into the slot and then pull it out.
NOTE
•Cards that conform to SDHC and SDXC specications are supported.
•Disable write-protection on the SD card before inserting it.
•Inserting or removing an SD card while the power is on could result in data loss.
•When inserting an SD card, be sure to insert the correct end with the top side up as shown.
•If an SD card is not loaded, recording and playback are not possible.
•Before using SD cards that have just been purchased or that have been formatted on a computer, they
must be formatted by the P4 ( “Formatting SD cards” on page 49).
14

Providing power
Installing batteries
To run the P4 on battery power, open the battery compartment cover on the bottom and install two AA
batteries.
Open while pressing down.
NOTE
•Use only one type of battery (alkaline, NiMH or lithium) at a time.
•Set the type of battery used correctly so that the amount of remaining battery charge can be shown
accurately. ( “Setting the type of batteries used” on page 42)
•The battery charge can be checked on the Home Screen ( page 13).
Other power sources
USB port
(Type-C)
Power supply USB
port (Type-C)
■Using the power supply USB port (Type-C)
Connect the dedicated AC adapter (AD-17) or a mobile battery to the power supply USB port (Type-C).
■Using the USB port (Type-C)
By connecting this USB port (Type-C) to a computer, the P4 can be operated on USB bus power.
NOTE
•By connecting this USB port to a computer before turning the power on, the P4 can be operated on
USB bus power.
•After turning the power on, if the USB cable connected to the USB port (Type-C) is disconnected and
reconnected, the P4 cannot be operated on USB bus power until it is restarted, even if connected to a
computer.
•If a smartphone or tablet is connected to this USB port, depending on the device, turning the P4 power
on might not be possible. In this case, connect an AC adapter or mobile battery to the USB port, or
install batteries in the battery compartment on the bottom of the unit to use it.
15

Turning the power on
POWER switch
1. Press until “ZOOM” appears on the display.
This turns the power on and opens the Home Screen.
The rst time the power is turned on after purchase and after the P4 has been restored to its factory
default state, set the date and time when the Set Date/Time setting screen opens. ( “Setting the date
and time (rst time starting up)” on page 17)
NOTE
The power will automatically turn off if it is not used for 10 hours.To keep the power on at all times,
disable the automatic power saving function. ( “Setting the Auto Power Off function” on page 44)
Turning the power off
1. Press until “Goodbye! SeeYou!” appears on the display.
NOTE
When the power is turned off, the current settings are saved on the P4.
HINT
When the power is turned on, it will start up in the state it was in when last turned off.
16

Setting the date and time (rst time starting up)
The rst time the power is turned on after purchase, set the date and time when the Set Date/Time setting
screen opens.
The date and time are stored in recorded les, and the recording start date/time is used in the le name.
Having the correct date and time set is helpful when looking for les, for example, by allowing contents to
be determined by names.
Year Month Day
Hour Minute OK
Cursor
1. Press / to move the cursor to the item you want to set, and press .
2. Use / to change the value, and press to conrm.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 to set the date and time.
4. After setting the date and time, use / to select OK, and press .
This conrms the set date and time and reopens the Home Screen.
HINT
The date and time setting can also be changed later from the Menu Screen. ( “Modifying the date and
time” on page 41)
17

Connecting
Connecting mics
Connect mics to capture sound. Up to 4 mics can be connected.
INPUT SELECT switches 1–4
Set to when using a
dynamic mic or to when
using a condenser mic.
MUTE buttons 1–4
Press to mute inputs.
These light when muted.
Dynamic and condenser mics
Use mic cables (with XLR
connectors) to connect them to
INPUT jacks 1–4.
2: HOT 1: GND
3: COLD
NOTE
•When an INPUT SELECT switch is set to , +48 V phantom power is supplied to that INPUT jack.
When connecting to a device that is not compatible with phantom power, do not set the INPUT SELECT
switch to . Doing so could damage the device.
•During recording, operating the INPUT SELECT switch will not change the phantom power supply
setting.The change will be applied after recording completes.
18

Connecting headphones
Connect headphones to check the sound.The PHONES 1–4 jacks output the master channel sound.
Up to 4 pairs of headphones can be connected.
PHONES knobs 1–4
Use these to adjust
headphone volumes.
Headphones
Connect to PHONES jacks 1–4.
Raise
Lower
19

Connecting smartphones
The following operations are possible when a smartphone is connected to the smartphone connection
jack.
•When podcasting, the voice of a guest participating by phone can be input on channel 3. By using a
4-contact mini-plug cable, a signal can be input from a smartphone and a mono signal can be sent
back to it simultaneously. Since this output signal does not include the sound from channel 3, guests
participating by phone will not have an echo.
•Music played back on a smartphone can be input on channel 3.
4-contact mini-
plug cable
INPUT SELECT switch 3
Set to .
Master output
signal
(excludes audio
signal from phone
participant)
Audio
signal from
phone
participant
Tip: Left channel (from smartphone)
Ring 1: Right channel (from smartphone)
Ring 2: Ground
Sleeve: mono mix (from P4)
4-contact mini-plug
20