The New Zoom H4n Pro
Zoom today announced the availability of the latest iteration of their H4n Handy Recorder, the H4n Pro. With this new model, Zoom keeps the recorder's primary features intact while upgrading overall performance — though in our appraisal, the differences between the Pro and the previous H4n offering are difficult to detect at first glance. Improvements to the Pro include new advanced microphones, high-performance mic preamps, and a low noise floor, promising high-quality four-track audio recording for a variety of applications. [image:blog_post:60625]
 
The H4n Pro is equiped with two built-in condenser mics in an X/Y configuration to capture clear and defined sound. The capsules in the new recorder have been updated from previous models to handle up to140 dB SPL for distortion-free recording, even in exceptionally loud environments. Three recording modes, built-in effects and the ability to function as a 2-input/2-output USB audio interface provide additional functionality.[image:blog_post:60624]
 
The H4n Pro also upgrades the mic pre-amps to the same ones used in the more robust Zoom H5 and H6 Handy Recorders, improving the H4n's noise floor to -120 dBu EIN and allowing for cleaner recording with fewer artifacts. In addition the the built-in microphones, the H4n Pro features two external mic inputs, which accept both balanced and unbalanced XLR or TRS inputs. The inputs also include a new locking mechanism to keep cables from coming loose. 
 
A headphone/line out jack allows you to send the captured stereo audio directly to a camera for synchonized external audio recording — especially useful when using small form-factor interchangeable lens cameras lacking quality audio inputs. You can also check your recordings via a built-in monophonic reference speaker.
 
With improvements outside as well as in, the H4n Pro features a new rubberized body with an ergonomic design 
 
The Zoom H4n Pro Handy Recorder is available today, June 1, 2016. For more information visit ?zoom-na.com/H4nPro.
Nicole LaJeunesse is a professional writer and a curious person who loves to unpack stories on anything from music, to movies, to gaming and beyond.