Zoom H4N-PRO user manual

There could be several reasons why the H4n Pro is not picking up sound from the input. Here are a few troubleshooting steps you can try:
1. Check the input source: Ensure that the device you are trying to record from is properly connected to the input of the H4n Pro. Make sure the cables are securely plugged in and not faulty or damaged.
2. Input settings: Verify that the H4n Pro is set to the correct input source. On the device, navigate to the Input menu and select the appropriate input option (XLR, 1/4", or built-in microphones).
3. Input levels: Check the input levels on the H4n Pro. Make sure the input gain is adjusted correctly for the source you are recording. If the gain is set too low, the input may not be sensitive enough to pick up sound. Adjust the gain accordingly, but be careful not to set it too high as it can result in distortion.
4. Phantom power: If you are using a condenser microphone that requires phantom power, ensure that the phantom power option is enabled on the H4n Pro. This is typically done by flipping the phantom power switch for the appropriate input channel.
5. Firmware update: Check if there are any firmware updates available for the H4n Pro. Updating the firmware can sometimes fix bugs or issues related to audio input.
6. Test with different sources: Try connecting and recording from different input sources to rule out the possibility of a problem with the specific device you are using.
If none of these steps resolve the issue, there may be a hardware fault with the H4n Pro. In that case, it might be necessary to contact the manufacturer's support for further assistance or consider getting it repaired or replaced.

The best audio settings for the Zoom H4n Pro will depend on the specific recording situation and the desired outcome. However, here are some general recommendations:
1. File Format: Set it to WAV for uncompressed high-quality audio or choose MP3 for smaller file sizes.
. Bit Depth: If using WAV format, select 16-bit for standard recording or 24-bit for higher quality. For MP3, 128kbps is usually sufficient for most applications.
3. Sample Rate: 44.1kHz is the standard sample rate for audio recording, but you may choose to increase it to 48kHz or 96kHz for higher resolution.
4. Recording Mode: Choose stereo mode for most situations, or use the 4-channel mode if you want to adjust the individual inputs separately.
5. Input Gain: Adjust the input gain levels according to the loudness of the sound source. Avoid setting the levels too high to prevent clipping or too low to avoid capturing unwanted noise.
6. Microphone Type: Choose the appropriate microphone configuration based on your setup (e.g., built-in mics, external mics, or a combination). You can adjust the stereo width and position of the microphones to capture the desired soundstage.
7. Recording Level: Monitor the input level meters while recording to ensure the sound doesn't peak in the red zone. Aim for levels that consistently stay in the green or yellow range.
8. Low Cut Filter: Enable the low cut filter (also known as high-pass filter) if you want to reduce low-frequency rumble or handling noise.
9. Limiter: Activate the limiter function to prevent sudden volume spikes from causing distortion in your recordings.
These settings can be adjusted through the menu system of the Zoom H4n Pro, allowing you to tailor them to your specific needs and preferences for optimal audio quality.

1. Turn on your Zoom H4n Pro by moving the power switch located on the right side.
. Press the "Menu" button which is located on the right side of the device.
3. Use the "Scroll" button, which is also the volume control button, to navigate through the menu options. Scroll until you get to the "Rec Mode" option.
4. Press the "Menu" button again to select the "Rec Mode" option.
5. Now you'll see the available recording formats. You can use the "Scroll" button again to navigate through these options. The options you have are WAV, MP3 and numerous variants depending on the quality you want.
6. Once you've chosen the format you want, press the "Menu" button again to select it.
7. To exit the Menu and start recording, press the return arrow located to the left of the Menu button until you back out to the main screen.
Note: It's always recommended to test your recording after changing settings to make sure it's recording as you expect.

The Zoom H4n and H4n Pro are both portable recorders made by Zoom Corporation. Here are the main differences:
1. Improved Preamps: The H4n Pro has a significantly lower noise floor and higher signal-to-noise ratio than the original H4n, which results in cleaner, more articulate recordings.
2. Processing Power: The H4n Pro's processing power is more advanced than the H4n, which ensures less latency and quicker response.
3. Headroom: The H4n Pro offers more headroom than the H4n, so you can capture louder sounds without distortion.
4. Design: While the H4n has a white screen with black text, the H4n Pro has a back-lit blue screen which improves visibility in low-light conditions. The design, layout and controls are largely the same, though the H4n Pro has a more robust design and a rubberized body for better grip.
5. Operating System: The H4n Pro's firmware is more advanced, providing more options for setting up the recorder and recording audio.
6. Audio I/O Options: While both models have XLR and 1/4" combo jacks, the H4n Pro also has a stereo 3.5mm input for lavalier or other microphones.
In general, while the two models are quite similar, the H4n Pro is a more refined and advanced variant of the H4n. It is designed for professional usage, offering better sound quality, more versatility, and superior user experience.