Zoom Palmtop Studio PS-04 User manual

© ZOOM Corporation
Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part, by any means, is prohibited.
Operation Manual

2 ZOOM PS-04
Caution
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USAGE AND 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 incorrectly, serious injury or death
could result.
This symbol indicates explanations about dangerous
matters. If users ignore this symbol and handle the
device incorrectly, bodily injury and damage to the
equipment could result.
Please observe the following safety tips and precautions to
ensure hazard-free use of the PS-04.
Power requirements
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.
• When not using the unit for an extended period,
disconnect the AC adapter from the AC outlet.
[Battery operation]
• Use four conventional IEC R6 (size AA) batteries
(alkaline).
• The PS-04 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.
Environment
Avoid using your PS-04 in environments where it will be
exposed to:
• Extreme temperature
• High humidity or moisture
• Excessive dust or sand
• Excessive vibration or shock
Handling
Since the PS-04 is a precision electronic device, avoid
applying excessive force to the switches and buttons.
Also take care not to drop the unit, and do not subject it
to shock or excessive pressure.
Alterations
Never open the case of the PS-04 or attempt to modify the
product in any way since this can result in damage to the
unit.
Connecting cables and input and output jacks
You should always turn off the power to the PS-04 and all
other equipment before connecting or disconnecting any
cables. Also make sure to disconnect all cables and the
AC adapter before moving the PS-04.
Usage Precautions
• Electrical interference
For safety considerations, the PS-04 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 PS-04, as
the possibility of interference cannot be ruled out entirely.
With any type of digital control device, the PS-04 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 PS-04. 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.
SmartMedia is a trademark of Toshiba Corporation.
Caution
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ZOOM PS-04 3
Contents
USAGE AND SAFETY PRECAUTIONS....... 2
Introduction ................................................ 5
Getting to Know the PS-04........................ 6
PS-04 configuration ............................... 6
Recorder section ........................................... 6
Effects section ............................................... 6
Rhythm section ............................................. 6
Mixer section ................................................ 7
Operation modes of the PS-04 .............. 7
Names and Functions of Parts ................. 8
Top view ................................................ 8
Front view .............................................. 9
Rear view ............................................... 9
Side view ............................................... 9
Getting Connected .................................. 10
About SmartMedia .................................. 10
Operating the Unit on Batteries ............. 11
Power On/Off ........................................... 11
Power-on ..................................................... 11
Power-off .................................................... 11
Listening to the Demo Song ................... 12
Let's Record ............................................ 13
Quick Guide ............................................. 15
Step 1:
Preparations before recording ............. 15
1-1 Creating a new project .......................... 15
1-2 Selecting a rhythm pattern to use ......... 17
Step 2: Recording the first track .......... 19
2-1 Selecting the input source ..................... 19
2-2 Applying the insert effect ..................... 21
2-3 Selecting a track and starting to
record .................................................... 22
Step 3: Overdubbing ............................24
3-1 Adjusting input sensitivity and setting
the insert effect ..................................... 24
3-2 Selecting the track to record ................. 24
Step 4: Mixing ...................................... 26
4-1 Muting the input signal/rhythm
sound ..................................................... 26
4-2 Adjusting level/panning/EQ ................. 26
4-3 Applying the send/return effect ............ 28
Step 5: Mixdown ................................. 30
5-1 Applying the mastering effect ............... 30
5-2 Mixdown (bounce) preparations ........... 31
5-3 Carrying out mixdown (bounce) ........... 32
5-4 Playing the bounced tracks ................... 33
Reference [Recorder] .............................. 36
AUDIO mode screens .......................... 36
V-takes ................................................ 36
About V-takes ............................................. 36
Switching V-takes ....................................... 36
Moving to a desired location in the song
(Locate/Marker function) ..................... 37
Specifying time or measures ....................... 37
Setting a mark in a song .............................. 38
Locating a mark .......................................... 38
Deleting a mark ........................................... 38
Playing back the same passage
repeatedly (A-B Repeat function) ........ 39
Re-recording only a specified part
(Punch-in/out function) ........................ 40
Using manual punch-in/out ......................... 40
Using auto punch-in/out .............................. 41
Combining multiple tracks on another
track (Bounce function) ....................... 42
Making settings for the bounce target
track(s) ........................................................ 42
Selecting the bounce target V-take ............. 43
Carrying out bounce recording .................... 43
Changing the precount
operation ............................................. 44
Checking the grade setting of a
project ................................................. 45
Reference [Track Editing] ....................... 46
Editing a range of data ........................ 46
Basic steps for range editing ....................... 46
Copying a specified range of data ............... 47
Moving a specified range of data ................ 48
Erasing a specified range of data ................ 49
Trimming a specified range of data ............ 49
Editing using V-takes ........................... 50
Basic steps for V-take editing ..................... 50
Deleting a V-take ........................................ 51
Copying a V-take ........................................ 51
Exchanging V-takes .................................... 52
Reference [Mixer] .................................... 53
About the PS-04 mixer ........................ 53

Contents
4 ZOOM PS-04
Assigning input signals to tracks ......... 53
Selecting the input source ........................... 53
Selecting the recording track(s) .................. 55
Mixing the playback sound from
tracks ................................................... 56
Making adjustments for each track
signal (track parameters) ..................... 56
Linking tracks (stereo link) ................... 58
Reference [Rhythm] ................................ 59
About the rhythm section .................... 59
Explanation of some important
terms .................................................... 59
PATTERN mode/SONG mode ................... 59
Pattern/song ................................................. 59
Drum track/bass track ................................. 60
Drum kit/bass program ................................ 60
PATTERN mode operation .................. 60
PATTERN mode screens ............................ 60
Selecting a pattern for playback .................. 60
Changing the tempo .................................... 61
Playing drum/bass sounds manually ........... 62
Creating a pattern ........................................ 63
Copying a pattern ........................................ 68
Deleting a pattern ........................................ 69
Changing the pattern parameters
(pattern edit) ................................................ 69
Setting PATTERN mode operation
(pattern utility) ............................................ 71
SONG mode operation ........................ 73
SONG mode screens ................................... 73
Creating a song ............................................ 73
Editing a song .............................................. 81
Clearing a song ............................................ 83
Importing pattern/song information from
another project ............................................. 83
Reference [Effects] ................................. 84
About the effects ................................. 84
Insert effect .................................................. 84
Send/return effect ........................................ 85
EFFECT mode screens ................................ 86
Basic steps for using the insert
effect .................................................... 86
Selecting the insert effect patch .................. 86
Editing an insert effect patch ....................... 87
Storing an insert effect patch ....................... 89
Changing an insert effect patch name ......... 90
Basic steps for using the send/return
effect .................................................... 90
Selecting the send/return effect
patch ............................................................ 90
Editing a send/return effect patch ............... 90
Storing a send/return effect patch ............... 91
Changing a send/return effect patch
name ............................................................ 91
Using the tuner function ...................... 92
Using the chromatic tuner ........................... 92
Using other tuning types ............................. 93
Reference [System] ................................. 95
SYSTEM mode screen ........................ 95
About projects ..................................... 95
Basic steps for handling projects ................ 95
Selecting a project ...................................... 96
Creating a new project ................................ 96
Copying a project ........................................ 96
Deleting a project ........................................ 97
Protecting a project ..................................... 97
Checking the remaining recording
time ............................................................. 97
Changing the name of a project .................. 98
Changing the operation of the level
meters ................................................. 98
Setting the built-in mic gain ................ 99
Turning the backlight on and off ......... 99
Formatting a SmartMedia card ......... 100
Specifications ........................................ 101
Troubleshooting .................................... 102
Problems during playback ................ 102
Problems during recording ................ 102
Problems with effects ........................ 103
Problems with rhythm section ........... 103
Other problems .................................. 103
Appendix ................................................ 104
Effect Parameters .............................. 104
Insert effect ............................................... 104
Send effect ................................................ 113
Rhythm patterns................................. 114
Effect patches ................................... 116
Insert effect ............................................... 116
Drum kits/Bass programs ................. 120
Compatibility with PS-02 and
MRS-4 ............................................... 121
PS-02 ........................................................ 121
MRS-4 ...................................................... 121
Files on SmartMedia card ................. 121
INDEX ..................................................... 122

ZOOM PS-04 5
Introduction
Thank you for selecting the ZOOM PS-04 Palmtop Studio (simply called the " PS-04 " in this manual).
The PS-04 is a fascinating product with the following features.
• Four great functions in one compact unit
Weighing in at a mere 160 grams, the PS-04 combines a SmartMedia recorder, mixer, multi-effect
device, and drum/bass machine in a single pocket-size body. Whenever and wherever inspiration
strikes, the PS-04 is ready to help you create and record your very own sound.
• 4-track recorder with bounce capability
The recorder allows simultaneous playback of four tracks and simultaneous recording on two
tracks. Each track has ten virtual takes (V-takes). While playing back all four tracks, you can
bounce the combined sound onto two empty V-takes. A host of functions lets you process and edit
audio data after recording.
• Full-featured mixer section
The integrated mixer makes it simple to adjust level, Hi/Lo EQ, panning, and effect send level for
the audio tracks and drum/bass tracks to create the stereo mix. The input signal can also be sent
directly to the stereo mix.
• Two versatile effect streams
The PS-04 provides insert effects that can be applied to the input or output, and send/return effects
that are used via the mixer send/return loop. The insert effect provides a mastering effect function
for processing the stereo mix. This is great for adjusting the sound and dynamics during mixdown.
• Rhythm section provides solid backing
Realistic PCM sources produce drum and bass sounds in a variety of more than 500 patterns. By
combining patterns and programming the chord progression, you can create the accompaniment
for an entire song.
• Flexible tuner function
The built-in tuner can be used not only for standard chromatic tuning but also for 7-string guitar,
5-string bass and other unconventional tuning applications.
In order to get the most out of this sophisticated product, please read this manual carefully
before use.
We recommend that you keep the manual at hand for future reference.

6 ZOOM PS-04
Getting to Know the PS-04
PS-04 configuration
The PS-04 can be thought of as having four main sections, namely recorder, effects, mixer, and rhythm.
These are explained below.
■ Recorder section
The recorder in the PS-04 has 4 separate audio tracks (a
track is a separate portion for recording audio data). Up to 2
tracks can be recorded simultaneously, and up to 4 tracks
can be played back simultaneously. The tracks are
numbered 1 – 4, and each of these tracks has 10 virtual
tracks (so-called V-takes). When performing recording or
playback, you can select one of these V-takes. For
example, you could record a difficult guitar solo onto
multiple V-takes, and then compare them later to select the
best take.
■ Effects section
The PS-04 has two types of effects: insert effects and send/return effects. The insert effect, as its name
implies, can be inserted at a selected point in the signal path. It consists of a number of single effects
connected in series, such as compressor, amp simulator, chorus, etc. It can be used for effect processing
of the input signal during recording or for the stereo mix during mixdown.
The send/return effect is routed through the built-in mixer and applies to all tracks. Reverb, delay, or
chorus can be selected for this effect. The intensity of the send/return effect for each track can be
adjusted with the send level parameter (the higher the value, the stronger the effect).
■ Rhythm section
The PS-04 has an integrated rhythm machine
that always operates in sync with the recorder.
Drum sounds and bass sounds from a PCM
source are used to form accompaniment
patterns. The PS-04 has over 500 patterns built
in, and 346 patterns are already
preprogrammed. Of course, you can also edit
existing patterns or create your own patterns
from scratch.
By lining up the patterns in the desired order
and specifying parameters such as chord
progression, tempo, and beat, you can create
the rhythm accompaniment for an entire song.
1
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
23
4
Tracks
Currently selected V-takes
V-takes
Recorder
Rhythm section
Rhythm
To mixer
Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
Rhythm Rhythm

Operation modes of the PS-04
ZOOM PS-04 7
Operation modes of the PS-04
The PS-04 has the following four operation modes. You can see which mode is
currently active by the light on/off status of the [EFFECT], [RHYTHM], and
[SYSTEM] keys on the panel.
●
AUDIO mode
This is the mode for recording and playing back audio. The PS-04 is always in this
mode after power-on and after you quit one of the other modes. In this mode, the
indicators of the [EFFECT], [RHYTHM], and [SYSTEM] keys are all out.
●
EFFECT mode
In this mode, you select patches for the insert effect and send/return effect, edit parameters, and perform
other effect related functions. To switch to this mode from any other mode, press the [EFFECT] key so
that the indicator lights up.
● RHYTHM mode
In this mode, you control the various rhythm functions. To switch to this mode from any other mode,
press the [RHYTHM] key so that the indicator lights up.
The rhythm functions of the PS-04 are further divided into PATTERN mode for repeatedly playing
patterns, and SONG mode for playing the rhythm accompaniment to an entire song. By repeatedly
pressing the [RHYTHM] key, you can switch between these two modes.
●
SYSTEM mode
This mode is used to create new projects and to make settings that affect operation of the entire PS-04.
To switch to this mode from any other mode, press the [SYSTEM] key so that the indicator lights up.
Insert
effect
Send/return
effect
Insert
effect
[INPUT] jack
[LINE IN] jack
Built-in mic
Recorder
Rhythm
section
123 4DRUM BASS
Input
Mixer
[OUTPUT] jack
Track 1
Track 2
Track 3
Track 4
Bass track
Drum track
■ Mixer section
Using the mixer functions built into the
PS-04, you can adjust the level, panning,
EQ, and other parameters for audio tracks
1- 4 and the drum / bass track to produce
the final stereo mix.

8 ZOOM PS-04
[SYSTEM] key
[EDIT/
UTILITY] key
[EXIT] key
[ENTER] key
[U] key, [R/P]]key, [REC] key, [MARK] key
Built-in mic
Cursor [E]/[R]/[Q]/[W] keys
[RHYTHM] key
[EFFECT] key
[BOUNCE] key
[AUTO PUNCH IN/
OUT] key
[TRACK PARAMETER] key
[TUNER/BYPASS] key
[INSERT/DELETE
(COPY)] key
Dial
Faders 1 - 4
[MIC] key
Status keys 1 - 4
Display
Names and Functions of Parts
Top view

Front view
ZOOM PS-04 9
Front view
Rear view
Side view
Card slot
[OUTPUT] jack
[PHONES] jack
[LINE IN] jack
[INPUT] jack
[INPUT LEVEL] knob
[ON/OFF switch] [DC9V] jack

10 ZOOM PS-04
To monitor with headphones,
connect them to the
[PHONES] jack. This jack
carries the same signal as the
[OUTPUT] jack.
Connect a guitar, bass
guitar or other instrument
to the [INPUT] jack.
Connect a stereo device with line level
output such as a synthesizer or CD
player to the [LINE IN] jack.
Monitoring system
Headphones
CD player
AC adapter
Synthesizer
Guitar
PS-04 rear panel
PS-04 side panel
Bass
To power the PS-04 from an AC outlet, be sure
to use only the AC adapter ZOOM AD-0006
(available separately). Using any other AC
adapter will lead to damage.
Getting Connected
About SmartMedia
To use the PS-04, a SmartMedia card is required. Before turning
on the power, insert the supplied SmartMedia card into the card
slot, as shown in the illustration.
When inserting the card, push it fully into the slot.
N OTE
•If you insert the SmartMedia card with the wrong orientation or
upside down, it will not go all the way in. Trying to push the
card in by force may damage it.
•Do not insert or remove the SmartMedia card while power is
turned on. Otherwise data loss may occur.
•Generic SmartMedia cards with a capacity from 16 MB to 128 MB (drive voltage 3.3 V)
may be used in the PS-04.
•To use a SmartMedia card that has already been formatted in a computer or a digital
camera, be sure to first format it once more in the PS-04 (→p. 100).
Card slot
SmartMedia