Zoom H4next User manual

Reproduction of this manual, in whole or in part,by any means, is prohibited.
© ZOOM Corporation
OPERATION MANUAL
English

Special features of H4n
001
Special features of H4n
In order to understand various functions of the H4n and make use of it for a long time, please read this manual carefully.
After reading through it, keep the manual with the certicate of guarantee safely.
•An all-in-one handy recorder.
You can enjoy recording and creating your own music any time, any where with
the H4n.
The H4n has a very compact 280 g lightweight design, equipped with high quality
stereo condenser microphones capable of an XY pickup pattern, a built-in speaker,
SD card recording, mixer and internal effects.
• Interface from any eld recording to multi-track recording.
The H4n is equipped with recording operation modes: <STEREO mode> which
is capable of high quality sound stereo recording, <4CH mode> which can
record 2 different sound sources and <MTR mode> which is capable of recording
and playback 4 tracks/2 tracks at the same time. You can record a melody as it
comes to mind or entire band performances. You can collect sound effects in the
field and even create your own music, recording vocals and instruments on multiple
tracks. In <STAMINA mode> you can record for up to 11 hours using batteries
only.
•Equipped with newly innovated XY Stereo Microphone
variable angle from 90 to 120 degree.
The H4n features mobility of the built-in microphones to address to a wider
range of recording scenarios. If you want a wider area of sound, you can set
the microphones to 120 degrees. Or set them to 90 degrees for a clearer sound
source around the center. Either way, the microphones are equipped on the same
XY style axis, so you can record natural stereo sound with no phase difference.
• XLR/standard phone combo jacks allow connection of
microphones and guitars directly.
We load various connection tools enable to wide ranges of recording with
H4n. The stereo and condenser microphones, the instruments like guitar, bass,
keyboard and so on can be connected directly to this compact H4n.
•It can be used as an Audio Interface/SD card reader for
a computer.
An onboard USB 2.0 Hi-Speed jack allows direct connection to a computer. You
can use it as an audio interface with built-in effects (sampling rate 44.1 kHz).
You can also use the H4n as an SD card reader for your computer. You can even
take the recorded files from your computer and create an audio CD using those
files as material in any DAW software.
• Other built-in functions: Tuner/Metronome/Karaoke.
The H4n can be used as a standard chromatic tuner. It is also capable of more
irregular tuning functions, like for a 7-string guitar or a 5-string bass, along with
others. The H4n has a metronome function convenient for practice and multi-
track recording.
You can change playback speed between the ranges of 50% to 150%.
There are many effective functions equipped such as central cancel function for
stereo files, Karaoke function with various key control, language learning and
voice training function.
Thank you very much for purchasing our ZOOM H4n Handy Recorder (hereinafter abbreviated to H4n).
The H4n has the following special features.

The H4n is ideal for the following scenarios
002
The H4n is ideal for the following scenarios
Piano recitals
Any field sound recordingRecording the meetings
Live performance recording
Vocal recording
The band practices
Recording acoustic guitar sound
Transfer analogue sound sources to digital sources
Drum practice recording

A table of contents
A table of contents
003
Special features of H4n ����������������������� 001
The H4n is ideal for the following scenarios �������������� 002
A table of contents ������������������������� 003
Safety precautions for users ��������������������� 006
Copyright warnings ������������������������� 007
Getting started
1-1 Recording flow using the H4n ������������������ 009
1-2 Easy recording guide [STEREO MODE] �������������� 011
2-1 Name and function of each part ����������������� 013
2-2 Installation of the attachments and options ������������ 015
3 Battery/Power outlet setting ������������������� 017
4-1 Power On and Off, How to use power and hold switch ������� 019
4-2 How to use the [REC] and locator buttons������������� 021
4-3 How to use the track [1], [2], [3] and [4] buttons ���������� 022
4-4 How to use the input [MIC], [1] and [2] buttons����������� 023
4-5 How to use REC LEVEL and VOLUME �������������� 024
4-6 How to use [DIAL] and [MENU] buttons ��������������025
5-1 Insert a SD card ������������������������ 027
5-2 Set date and time <DATE/TIME> ����������������� 028
6-1 Setting up: How to connect to outside machines���������� 029
6-2 Setting up: Built-in microphones �����������������030
6-3 Setting up: Built-in microphones /outside microphone with plug-in power � 031
6-4 Setting up: INPUT [1], [2] connections and phantom power source �� 032
6-5 Setting up: USB connection, H4n used as an Audio Interface ���� 033
6-6 Setting up: USB connection, H4n used as a SD card reader ����� 035
6-7 Setting up: A built-in speaker ������������������ 036
7-1 About H4n modes ����������������������� 037
7-2 Selecting a <MODE> and its confirmation ������������� 038
7-3 Details about modes ���������������������� 039
8-1 <MODE> screens: STEREO and STAMINA modes ��������� 040
8-2 <MODE> screen: 4CH mode ������������������ 041
8-3 <MODE> screen: MTR mode ������������������042
8-4 <MODE> screen: MAIN MENU������������������ 043
9 Option: Remote control operation ����������������045
Operations
1-01 Setting / Recording: Set input source and recording level ����� 047
1-02 Setting / Recording: Recording in STEREO and STAMINA mode�� 049
1-03 Setting / Recording: Recording format <REC FORMAT> ����� 051
1-04 Setting / Recording: File name <FILE NAME> ���������� 052
1-05 Setting / Recording: Recording on 4CH mode ���������� 053
1-06-1 Setting / Recording: Recording in MTR mode ���������� 055
1-06-2 Setting / Recording: Recording <OVER WRITE> in MTR mode �� 057

A table of contents
004
1-06-3 Setting / Recording: Recording <ALWAYS NEW> in MTR mode �� 058
1-07 Setting / Recording: TRACK MENU in MTR mode �������� 059
1-08-1 Setting / Recording: Re-recording, <PUNCH IN/OUT> automatic � 061
1-08-2 Setting / Recording: Re-recording, <PUNCH IN/OUT> manual ��063
2-01-1 Recording function <AUTO REC> ��������������� 065
2-01-2 Recording function <AUTO REC STOP> ������������ 066
2-02 Recording function <PRE REC> ����������������067
2-03 Recording function <LO CUT> ���������������� 068
2-04 Recording function <COMP/LIMIT> �������������� 069
2-05 Recording function <REC LEVEL AUTO> ������������ 070
2-06 Recording function <MONITOR> ��������������� 071
2-07 Recording function <MONO MIX> ��������������� 072
2-08 Recording function <MS STEREO MATRIX>����������� 073
3-01-1 Tuner <TUNER (CHROMATIC) > ���������������� 075
3-01-2 Tuner, all other <TUNER> ������������������� 076
3-01-3 Tuner <TUNER (CALIB) > ������������������� 077
3-01-4 Tuner <TUNER (INPUT) > �������������������078
3-02 Metronome <METRONOME> ����������������� 079
3-03-1 All about EFFECT ���������������������� 081
3-03-2 Effect <EFFECT> ���������������������� 083
3-03-3 Effect <EDIT>, patch edit ������������������� 084
3-03-4 Effect <EDIT (PRE AMP) >, editing PRE AMP modules ������ 085
3-03-5 Effect <EDIT (EFX) >, editing EFX modules ����������� 086
3-03-6 Effect <EDIT (LEVEL/RENAME) > ���������������087
3-03-7 Effect <EDIT (STORE) > ������������������� 088
3-03-8 Effect <IMPORT>, taking in a patch from another PROJECT ��� 089
3-04-1 A sing-along machine <KARAOKE> preparation ��������� 091
3-04-2 A sing-along machine <KARAOKE> recording ���������� 093
4-01 Playback : Playback files (stereo, 4ch and stamina modes) ���� 094
4-02 Playback : <PLAY MODE> ������������������095
4-03 Playback : Setting marks ������������������� 096
4-04 Playback : <AB REPEAT>������������������� 097
4-05 Playback : <SPEED> ��������������������� 099
4-06 Playback : <MIXER> ��������������������� 100
4-07 Playback : Playback files (MTR mode) ������������� 101
4-08 Playback : Appointing time with a counter ����������� 102
5-01 Edit / Output : <FOLDER SELECT> �������������� 103
5-02 Edit / Output : <FILE SELECT> ���������������� 104
5-03 Edit / Output : <FILE INFORMATION> ������������� 105
5-04 Edit / Output : <FILE DELETE> ���������������� 106
5-05 Edit / Output : <FILE DELETE ALL> �������������� 107
5-06 Edit / Output : <FILE (COPY)> ����������������� 108
5-07 Edit / Output : <FILE RENAME> ���������������� 109
5-08 Edit / Output : <FILE MP3 ENCODE> ������������� 111

A table of contents
005
5-09 Edit / Output : <FILE NORMALIZE> �������������� 112
5-10 Edit / Output : <FILE STEREO ENCODE> ������������ 113
5-11 Edit / Output : <MARK LIST> ����������������� 115
5-12 Edit / Output : <DIVIDE> ������������������� 116
5-13 Edit / Output : <MOVE> ������������������� 117
5-14 Edit / Output : <NEW PROJECT> ��������������� 118
5-15 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (SELECT) > ������������� 119
5-16 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (DELETE) > ������������� 120
5-17 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (RENAME) > ������������121
5-18 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (COPY) > �������������� 122
5-19 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (BOUNCE) > ������������ 123
5-20 Edit / Output : <PROJECT (PROTECT) > ������������ 125
6-01 Utility : <DISPLAY BACK LIGHT> ��������������� 126
6-02 Utility : <DISPLAY CONTRAST> ����������������127
6-03 Utility : <BATTERY TYPE> ������������������ 128
6-04 Utility : <VERSION> ��������������������� 129
6-05 Utility : <FACTORY RESET>������������������ 130
6-06 Utility : <REMAIN> ���������������������� 131
6-07 Utility : <FORMAT> ��������������������� 132
6-08 Utility : <VERSION UP> ������������������� 133
6-09 Utility: How to use H2 and H4 SD cards ������������ 134
Reference
Main spec list by mode ����������������������� 137
Available setting menu list by each mode ��������������� 138
Effect types on MTR mode and the parameter ������������� 139
H4n patch list ��������������������������� 145
H4n products spec ������������������������� 147
When you think something may be wrong with your machine������� 148
Index ������������������������������� 149

Safety precautions for users
006
Safety precautions for users
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
In this manual, the warning and caution symbols are used
to highlight dangerous accidents and troubles for users to
read so that accidents can be prevented. The meanings of
these symbols are as follows:
If the users ignore this symbol and handle the
device the wrong way, serious injury or death
could result.
If the users ignore this symbol and handle the
device the wrong way, bodily injury and damage
to the equipment could result.
Please read through the following safety tips and
precautions to ensure hazard-free use of the H4n.
Power requirements
Since power consumption of this unit is fairly
high, we recommend the use of an AC adapter
whenever possible. In case you use batteries, use
either alkaline or nickel-metal hydride batteries.
[AC adapter operation]
• Make sure to use only an AC adapter, DC5 center
plus 1A (ZOOM AD 14 A/D).The use of 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, make sure grasp the adapter itself and
never pull at the cable.
• During lightning or when not using for an
extended period, disconnect the AC adapter
from the AC outlet.
[Battery operation]
• Use two conventional size AA-1.5 volt batteries.
• H4n cannot be used for recharging. Pay close
attention to the labeling of the batteries to make
sure you choose the correct ones.
• When not using for an extended period, remove
the batteries from the unit.
• If battery leakage has occurred, wipe the battery
compartment and battery terminals carefully to
remove all remnant of battery fluid.
• When using the unit, the battery compartment
cover should be closed.
Environment
To prevent unexpected troubles and malfunctions,
avoid using H4n in environment where it will be
exposed to:
• Extreme temperatures
• Heat sources such as radiators or stoves
• High humidity or moisture
• Excessive dust or sand
• Excessive vibration or shock
Handling
• Never place any objects filled with liquids, such
as a vase, on the H4n since this can cause
electric shock.
• Never place naked flame sources, such as lighted
candles, on the H4n since this can cause fire.
• The H4n is a precision instrument. Do not exert
undue pressure on the keys and other controls.
Take care not to drop, bump, and do not subject
it to shock or excessive pressure, which can
cause serious troubles.
• Take care that no foreign objects (coins or pins
etc.) or liquids (water, alcoholic drinks and
juice)can enter the unit.
• Do not place the H4n speaker closer to other
precision instruments (watch and computer),
electronic medical instruments, or magnetic cards.
Connecting cables and input and output jacks
You should always turn off the power to the H4n and
all other equipment before connecting or disconnecting
any cables. Make sure to disconnect all a connection
cables and the power code before moving the H4n.
Alterations
Never open the case of the H4n or attempt to
modify the product in any way since this can result
in damage to the unit.
Volume
Do not use the H4n at a loud volume for a long
time since this can cause hearing impairment.
USAGE PRECAUTIONS
Electrical interference
For safety considerations, the H4n has been designed
to provide maximum protection against the emission of
electromagnetic radiation from inside the device, and
protection from external interference. However, the
equipment that is very susceptible to interference or that
emits powerful electromagnetic waves should not be placed
near the H4n, as the possibility of interference cannot be
ruled out entirely.
With any type of digital control device, the H4n 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 H4n. 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.

Copyright warnings
007
Copyright warnings
Recording of live performances
Many artists and most live venues do not allow recording and photography
and will check for cameras and recorders at the entrance. Even if recording is
allowed, it is prohibited to sell, distribute, or upload to the Internet without the
organizer’s authorization. Copyright violation is a crime.
Capturing music and sound files
Saving music to CD, MP3, or other media, reproducing files for personal use can
be considered a copyright violation.
Trademarks:
• The SD symbol and SDHC symbol are trademarks.
• The use of MPEG Layer-3 audio compression technology is licensed from Fraunhofer IIS
and Sisvel SpA.
• Windows is a registered trademark of US Microsoft Corporation.
• Mac OS and Macintosh is a trademark of Apple Inc.
• Steinberg and Cubase are registered trademarks of Steinberg Media Technologies GmbH Inc.
• Names of manufacturers and products are each respective owner’s trademarks or registered.

Getting started
008
Getting started

Recording ow using the H4n
009
1-1 Recording flow using the H4n
The following is the basic ow of recording operation for the H4n. Depending on the object and purpose of the recording, you can select
various mode settings for optional quality recording. With the H4n on-board guitar and mic modeling, multi-track recording capability,
and the ability to use your own microphones, you can adapt the H4n to any situation and enjoy numerous recording styles.
Switch on
Connection
to other
machinery
Set-up
Select
the Mode
Set-up the
recording
method
1) The H4n has built-in microphones as well as
2 input jacks with phantom power for use with any
external microphone. A USB cable is included to
connect H4n to the computer.
The H4n is powered by AA batteries or a Plug-in
Power Source.
3) You can select your favorite
settings;
• AUTO REC
• REC LEVEL AUTO
• LO CUT
• COMP/LIMIT
• MONO MIX
• TUNER
• METRONOME
• EFFECT/PATCH
• KARAOKE and so on.
P.029
〉〉〉〉
2) You can select among 4 Modes;
STEREO, 4CH, MTR & STAMINA
suitable for different input sources
and editing/output of recording.
STEREO Mode
4CH Mode
MTR Mode
P.037
〉〉〉〉
P.065-
〉〉〉〉
STAMINA Mode
P.019

Recording ow using the H4n
010
Edit·OutputRECORD Playback
and conrm
RE-RECORDING
(Recording again
from scratch)
Recording on STEREO mode/
STAMINA mode………P.049
Recording on 4CH mode
……………P.053
Recording on MTR mode
……………P.055
5) The H4n has very convenient
ways to swiftly review/playback
a recording as well as marking
/finding specific sections and
repeating sections of the recording:
6) In MTR mode the punch-in/
punch-out function enables you
to re-record only the section you
want to correct.
7) The recordings are saved as
FILES and PROJECTS, and you
can edit them in various ways.
P.094-
〉〉〉〉
P.061-
〉〉〉〉
P.105-
〉〉〉〉
•FILE INFORMATION
•FILE MP3 ENCODE
•FILE STEREO ENCODE
•DIVIDE
•MOVE
•BOUNCE
and so on.
• PLAY MODE
• AB REPEAT
• SPEED
• MARK LIST
and so on.
• PUNCH-IN/OUT
and so on.

Monitor the input sound
rec level
Easy recording guide [STEREO MODE]
011
1-2 Easy recording guide [STEREO MODE]
The following is basic recording instructions using the built-in stereo microphone and a built-in speaker
on STEREO MODE.
[LEFT PANEL]
Power switch
ON
1
[POWER]
switch on.
Conrm
STEREO
MODE
2
P.038
〉〉〉〉
In case of a wrong MODE indicator
or a wrong screen
KEEP RECORDING
STANDBY
CONDITION
3
STEREO
mode indicator
light on
[STEREO TOP SCREEN]
MIC button light on
*switch on from a built-in
microphones.
Made new le
Input from the built-in
microphones
MIC lamp lights
blinks
Press here
when you want
to stop.
blinks
Press.
[FRONT PANEL]
Recording
standby mark

Easy recording guide [STEREO MODE]
012
ADJUST
INPUT LEVEL
START
RECORDING
STOP
RECORDING
Adjust the input sound
rec level
P.094
〉〉〉〉
In detail
4 5 6
PLAYBACK
7
DECREASE
−
light on
Counter turns
SD CARD remaining capacity low
Counter returns 0:00:00:00:000
light off
Temporary Stop Re-recording
Counter doesn’t return 0
[STOP]
[RIGHT PANEL]
Now recording
mark
Press.
[BACK PANEL]
Output: Built-in speaker
Press.
[PLAYBACK]
The mark is put
Applied to the file at the WAV file
format
or Press.
P.049
〉〉〉〉
In detail
INCREASE
+
Press.

Name and function of each part
013
2-1 Name and function of each part
90 / 120°
Variable XY
Stereo microphones
(Built-in)
Display equipped
backlight
[REC] Button
STEREO/4CH/MTR
mode indicator
INPUT: Buttons for
[MIC] [1], [2]
LOCATOR Buttons
[FRONT PANEL] [BACK PANEL]
Installed holes for a tripod
Battery cover
A built-in mono speaker
• Short cut buttons on
STEREO/4CH mode
[1] <FOLDER>
[2] <FILE>
[3] <SPEED>*STEREO mode
[4] <WAV/MP3>
*STEREO/4CH mode
• On MTR mode
Buttons for
TRACK [1], [2], [3], [4]
Input jacks for external stereo
microphone
STAMINA mode
switch

Name and function of each part
014
[BOTTOM PANEL]
DC5V AC ADAPTER jack
Optional remote-control jack
[LINE/PHONE] output jack
USB port
POWER switch
HOLD switch
[LEFT PANEL]
[DIAL]
[MENU] button
REC LEVEL [ + / − ]
SD card slot
[RIGHT PANEL]
VOLUME [ + / − ]
Installed hole
for a strap
XLR/STANDARD PHONE
INPUT [1] jack
XLR/STANDARD PHONE
INPUT [2] jack

Installation of the attachments and options
015
2-2 Installation of the attachments and options
The following attachments are included in the H4n package.
Before use, please make sure that you have each attachment (and optional items).
SD CARD
MAIN BODY CASE
MICROPHONE STAND
ADAPTER
AC ADAPTER
(ZOOM AD-14A/D)
USB CABLE
WINDSHIELD
Cubase LE4
Instruction manual
DAW start-up guide

Installation of the attachments and options
016
•How to use the windshield
Remote control
(Option, sold separately)
P.045
〉〉〉〉
Operation of
remote control
Microphone
stand adapter(Accessory) Microphone stand
•How to install a microphone stand
[FRONT PANEL] [SIDE PANEL]
When recording outside in
the field, covering the built-
in microphones with this
windshield, you can emit
wind noise or blast.
Use a microphone adapter
(optional attachment) to install
the H4n unit and the stand can
grip the adapter firmly.

Battery/Power outlet setting
017
3 Battery/Power outlet setting
Power for H4n recorder is supplied by domestic power source and batteries.
• Domestic power source
An AC adapter is included.
• Battery installation
Install two size AA batteries (IEC R6)
An attached AC adapter
Zoom AD-14
Use of an AC adapter other
than the one included may
cause trouble.
2Insert two size AA batteries
ensuring you match the
polarity markings ( + and − ).
* Illustration : open the battery compartment
cover and insert batteries.
1Open the battery
compartment cover.
Make sure power switch off!
Whenever you open the battery compartment
cover, plug in and plug out the AC adapter,
make sure power off, otherwise the recording
data can be destroyed.
NOTE:
Ref. ☞Explanation about the Stamina Mode.
P.037
: Use in general (Using AC adapter,
batteries)
ON: Stamina Mode On (Eco-power mode
when using batteries)
3Set the Stamina Mode
Switch.
* Illustration of a Stamina Switch on.
4Close the battery
compartment cover.
* Illustration of closing the battery
compartment cover.

Battery/Power outlet setting
018
To measure the lifetime of the battery
The remaining lifetime of the battery is measured more precisely,
setting the using battery type on the H4n.
Saving period for the setting <DATE/TIME>
Whenever power supply is off by dead battery, the H4n can save
the date/time setting for three minutes. When the saving time is
over, the setting will be return to the primary value.
Screen indicator for power
HINT:
• Remaining lifetime of the battery
When “Low Battery!” indication appears, immediately
switch off unit and exchange batteries, or shift power
source to AC adapter.
When remaining battery
life is getting short, “Low
Battery” indication will
be shown every two
seconds and the power
will switch off shortly after.
FULL
EMPTY
• Battery’s approximate lifetime
Usable batteries
You can use conventional alkaline and nickel metal hydride batteries.
Power supply from USB
Connect the USB cable to the H4n while it’s already connected to
the computer with the power switch off, and power is automatically
turned on via USB bus power supply. This function is only available
when the H4n is used as an SD card reader or an audio interface.
NOTE:
Alkaline battery
in general use about 6 hours
in stamina mode
use about 11 hours
* Approximate lifetime when it is used for continuous recording on
WAV 44.1 kHz/16bit format.
Using batteries Using AC adapter
Ref. ☞<BATTERY TYPE>
P.128
Ref. ☞<USB BUS POWER>
P.033

Power On and Off, How to use power and hold switch
019
4-1 Power On and Off, How to use power and hold switch
[LEFT PANEL]
POWER switch
HOLD switch
POWER ON / BOOTING UP
2Insert SD card.
1[Preparation]
Make sure all equipment is
turned off.
4Switch on connecting
instruments and monitors
in turn.
• Before power switch on, lower the volume
of instruments and monitors connected
to the H4n.
• The display says "No
Card" when booting
u p , m a k e s u r e
that the SD card is
inserted correctly.
• The display says "Reset DATE/TIME"
when booting up,
the date and time
setting is the
primary value.
NOTE
To connect more than one machinery, turn
power switch on in the following order:
HINT:
Procedure for power on.
3[Power On _ Boot up]
Slide the power switch.
AMPMixerH4n
Instruments
ON ON ONON
Ref.
<DATA/TIME>
P.028