Customer Ratings & Reviews

Let's get this out of the way right now: I'm not a "sound guy," and I'm sure that there are many other better (more expensive) options for sound. However, even given my limited budget I am not completely unfamiliar with sound editing. I have been using a Zoom H1 at work for the last couple of years, but I wanted something with a little more oomph for my own projects, so I upgraded to the Zoom H4. I will be comparing the two throughout this review, so bear in mind that I am not coming at this from a completely fresh perspective. PROS: Even though the H4 costs nearly twice as much as the H1, they balance out in some ways. For example, they both feature pretty good stereo sound capture from the built-in microphones. They both allow for an external input for recording, and they both allow you to connect a pair of headphones to listen to the sound as you record. If you want, you can use the headphone jack via a male-to-male stereo 1/8" audio cable to connect to a camera's microphone input (I typically use a Canon EOS Rebel T5i). Whereas the H1 only features a single simple stereo input, the H4 also features two XLR microphone connectors which gives it far more versatility. The H4 also features a more active display for greater visual feedback as you record, which is a step up from the H1. More buttons and switches allow you to have more direct control over the quality of your audio when using the H4 instead of the H1. Best of all, if you're just using it to dictate or record conversations, the H4 has a built-in mono speaker for playback, which the H1 lacks. Both the H1 and the H4 can be used as high-quality USB microphones when connected to a PC, just remember to use a pop shield. The H4 has a standard size SDXC card slot, while the H1 only has a micro SDXC slot, which makes it a little more attractive when looking for a blank card to record to (I've been getting a lot use from my old class 4 SDHC cards that are too slow for my DSLR cameras). CONS: The H4 is considerably heavier than the H1, which will add more bulk to your recording setup. Even though the H4 takes two AA batteries (as opposed to the H1's single AA), it drains them really quickly -- you'll get more uptime from the H1 even though it uses less power. The flatter, more rectangular shape of the H4 makes wind screens difficult to find, and when you do they don't always fit the best (plus the H1's slimmer profile makes it easier to fit inside a zeppelin enclosure). My biggest complaint about the H4 as opposed to the H1 is that the tripod mount is too shallow -- you can't get enough of the threading into the H4 to give it a stable base. This can be corrected using some washers around the mounting screw, and I suspect it is because the H4 is so jam-packed full of features that they couldn't make the hole any deeper, but it is really inconvenient at times, especially since... the external "line in" port is located on the bottom of the unit. This means that if you want to use a simple wired lapel mic or audio line to record, tripod mounting is pretty much a necessity so that you don't bend the wires or damage the unit. Because there is only one stereo output, if you have the H4 connected directly to a camera you can no longer listen to the audio as you record, which can be a problem (though in fairness, the H1 has this flaw too). CONCLUSION: For the nearly $200 I spent on this recorder, I am extremely happy with it. It's considerably more professional than a normal audio recorder, it's a lot easier than lugging a trunk full of professional sound gear out on shoots, it's small enough that you could carry it with you in a backpack or camera bag, and it's much better than using even the best consumer-grade camera's on-board microphone. If you already own the H1 and aren't sure whether to upgrade, it's a toss-up, but if you are looking for your first audio recorder and are trying to decide, I recommend going for the H4.

Pros: - Well Built - Nice Audio Quality - Simple Interface - Most of the inputs and outputs that you would need Cons - Bulky for just an audio recorder - A little bit more pricy that some competitors - Have had problems formatting large capacity cards Overall if the price doesn't deter you then this is an excellent recorder whether your using the built in mics or trying to hook it up to other audio devices. I have had a few problems trying to format large capacity cards but with cards under 32GBs i have not had any issues. I would also look at some Tascam products if this is a bit pricey for you.

This is a fantastic digital recorder. It has lots of useful features and the sound quality is excellent. Many professionals use this model. It has an easy to follow menu system and excellent metering. Its easy to navigate and make selections with the built-in buttons. I attached many different external mics, including ones that require phantom power - they sound great. I even attached my electric guitar and the recording exceeded my expectations. You can attach two condenser or dynamic mics at one time. Unfortunately, you can't use the built-in mic with an external mic at the same time. The recorder mic is excellent! It uses 2 AA batteries. If you use a condenser mic that is not self powered, it will drain the recorder fast. Otherwise, the batteries could get you through the day. The only major drawback is the thickness and weight of the unit. But this point might be meaningless depending on your needs.

I really wanted great audio for my videos for the longest time, but I had such a small budget to work with. This gives me incredible quality for one of the cheapest price possible. On top of that its actually quite simple to work, but if you find it difficult just look it up on youtube and you can literally learn to use it in about 15 mins.

I was able to get the H4N Zoom at a great price and an additional 10% off from a promotional coupon (get a mail address change packet at any USPS which contains vendor coupons) at Best Buy, I'm very happy with my purchase. The H4N Zoom is a mainstay for anyone who needs superior audio, or an additional recorded audio source for post-production. If you go online there are a number of DIY video clips and highlights which will show you how to use the H4N Zoom's major features, and the reviews are self-explanatory. You do not need to use all the options. You can also use the two microphones that are provided on the H4N Zoom, but more than likely you'll want to use the XLR plug-ins to record any live feed(s) directly from the sound sources (e.g., podium mike, sound board / sound system etc). Easy to carry and does not take up much room.

Great product for the price. Has all the functions I wanted. Easy to read display. Included batteries and case. Would recommend for anybody wanting to upgrade sound quality for video production.

Great little mic recorder, excellent for capturing sound quickly. If you need sound on a budget, this little guy works great, just maybe make sure to record audio enough times just to be safe you have what you need. It's also small enough to be discreet if you need to record ambiance at a coffee shop or something.

This is the second H4N and they both work great when recording live performances. Also, great for solo artists who want to hook their acoustic guitar and microphone directly into the unit. The H4N is a great recorder and the sound quality is just unbelievably great.

I use this to record out in fields. Recording nature sounds. Very sensitive. Good quality. Suggest buying a wind deflector though if you will use outside.

Very impressive recorder. My daughter was able to learn now to use it quickly and was able to submit online auditions for band. Great product!

Records wells and is a solid constructed product. Much better the your built in mic

This is a very handy sound recording device. It is affordable and easy to use for those who are beginner sound recorders. The case that comes with it is useful and this device is easy to take with you to any destination.

One of the best voice recorder on the market, a little pricey but worth every penny

This is an affordable way to get better quality sound with your DSLR video hobby.

Easy to use and a very nice design for a multipurpose sound recorder.

Great audio recorder for voice over, live events, band practices.

Used it for my wedding, worked great and audio sounded awesome

Built like a truck. Excellent on board mics. Full of recording features like stereo 4 channel and multi track recording. Easy and simple to understand menus.

My audio is so much better. Don't know what I'd do without this device. Canon 7d.

Works great! This perform or outperform many other very costly products. Overall great value for money. Thanks