Even though there is a wide range of technical devices used for recording musical sounds, some are more popular because they are much better than others. In fact, the tools and equipment that artists use can make a major difference in the sounds recorded. One of the more notable consists of using handheld multitrack recorder devices to capture the highest quality sounds.
For those who are interested in products that provide the best technological innovations, here are 3 of the best handheld multitrack recorder options and a brief overview of each.
Zoom H4N PRO Digital Multitrack Recorder
- Capture Professional-Quality Audio: With four-track simultaneous recording, built-in X/Y stereo microphones, and high-fidelity mic preamps, the H4N is the perfect tool for capturing studio-grade audio in any environment.
- Connect with Confidence: The H4N offers extensive connectivity options, including two mic/line level inputs with XLR/TRS combo connectors and a stereo 1/8" Mic In mini phone jack. Plus, with output/headphone jack with dedicated volume control, you'll have complete control over your sound.
- Unlock Powerful Recording Capabilities: Record up to 140 dB SPL with X/Y microphones, and support up to 24-bit/96 kHz audio in BWF-compliant WAV or a variety of MP3 formats. With built-in effects like compression/limiting, low-cut filtering, modulation, reverb/delay and amp models, your recordings will sound professional and polished.
- Portable and Convenient: The H4N is compact and versatile, making it perfect for on-the-go recording. It can be mounted to a mic stand or tripod, or directly to a DSLR with an optional Hot Shoe adapter. Plus, with up to 5.5 hours of battery life (up to 8 hours in Stamina mode), you can record anywhere, anytime.
- Enhance Your Recording Setup: The H4N doubles as a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface for PC/Mac computers, making it a must-have tool for any home or professional recording setup. With its sleek design and powerful capabilities, the H4N is a game-changer for any recording enthusiast.
The Zoom H4N PRO Digital Multitrack Recorder has quite a bit of positive feedback from people reporting on their experiences with this recorder. With this version of the Zoom H4N Pro, there are quite a few updates to enjoy, specifically, as it compares to the last version that the manufacturer released.
Features
- Manufacturers have designed this device with a built-in stereo X/Y microphones
- Comes with a 4-channel function with recording capabilities of up to 24-bit / 96kHz
- 2 XLR/TRS inputs with locking connectors
- Users also provided with the capability of recording their sounds on SD/SDHC cards
- 4-in/2-out USB audio interface
Pros
- This new release is exceptional due to the fact that it has no noise and it is great for podcasting startups
- Also, it is relatively easy to learn and understand and spending a little extra time in the manual will help you get the most out of its multifunctional capabilities (i.e. can be used as a camera mic)
- Comes with a simple interface and it is easy to operate
- It perfectly fits in the hand and can be easily operated because all of the buttons and the wheels are within immediate reach of the index finger and thumb
Cons
Problems encountered with trying to update the firmware, even with multiple attempts could not solve it.
Summary
Great product that keeps out noise. Comes with an easy-to-use interface that makes it simple to operate. Highly recommended to users because of its multi-functional features.
Tascam DR-05X Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder
- Tascam Authorized Reseller, 1-Year Tascam Warranty
- The dual internal condenser microphones can handle anything from subtle to loud, with sensitivity to capture every detail.
- Respond to sound from all directions and are permanently spaced apart in an A/B configuration, yielding a broad, sphere-like pickup pattern.
- A revamped layout means operations like recording, adjusting levels, deleting bad takes and adding Markers are quick and easy.
- Connect to a PC using USB Audio Interface Mode for voiceover work, live streaming, podcasting and songwriting with studio-quality audio.
The Tascam DR-05X Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder is a great choice for a number of different reasons. Since it has a lot of great features in a compact design, it is ideal for artists in virtually any area of music to use. So, for those of you who are interested in what this portable handheld audio recorder offers, here’s a brief overview of the pros, cons, and other useful facts about this product.
Features
- Comes with in a lightweight and compact design that provides you with the capabilities to record virtually anywhere. This device is a perfect solution for musicians and others in related fields
- Provides quality WAV and MP3 recording functionality
- Device records up to 24-Bit/96 kHz
- Comes with a built-in chromatic tuner that gives you the capability to make sure that you are in key at all times
Pros
- MicroSD or MicroSDHC cards can be used for audio storage
- To capture stereo sounds clearly, it has integrated microphones included in its design
- Great recorder for its price
Cons
- This mic that has been provided is a waste of time and money
- The audio becomes very muddy when this mic is being used to record
Summary
Overall, this device is considered to be great for its intended use. However, some of the feedback says that it slightly noisy so it may not be the best for those who need it for more professional purposes.
Zoom H4N Handy Portable Digital Recorder – 2009 Version
- Built-in X/Y stereo mics record at either 90° or 120°
- Four channel simultaneous recording using built-in and external mics
- Digitally controlled, high-quality mic preamp for improved audio quality
- Large 1.9-Inch LCD screen and improved user interface for easy operation
- 24bit/96kHz Linear PCM recording for pristine recording
Zoom H4N Handy Portable Digital Recorder – 2009 Version has a lot of great consumer feedback that potential buyers can review prior to making their decision. Because it has been on the market since 2009, people have had a chance to test out this version for quite some time now and they can share the good and the bad of their experiences. For those who are interested in what this handy portable digital recorder has to offer, here is some information that can assist you in making your decision.
Features
- Comes with high-quality onboard X/Y Mics that is easy to set up
- Designed with ease of use selectable recording widths
- For added possibilities, the manufacturer has included 2 XLR/TRS Inputs (i.e. connect line-level devices, mics, and instruments)
- For high resolution audio capabilities, this device comes with 24-bit/96kHz recording functionality
- Featured with onboard recorder of choice that expands its overall capabilities (i.e. built in effects with an audio interface mode)
Pros
- Users says that there is virtually no noise on this new version so it is very impressive, even when being compared to its predecessor
- Even though this device is the smaller version of the 3 Zooms, its sound is still much clearer than other recording alternatives
- Quality cannot be beaten, specifically when it comes to ambient sounds in stereo (i.e., rain, trees, and the like)
- Excellent multifunctional tool since it can be used in a variety of ways (i.e. field recorder)
Cons
Comes with 2 AA batteries so it will only last about 4 hours straight. An AC adapter will be needed for longer field projects that extend further out than this time
Summary
Overall, the Zoom H4N Handy Portable Digital Recorder – 2009 Version is an excellent choice. It has a lot of great benefits including being classed a multi-functional tool that artists can use in a number of different ways to support their specific needs.
Verdict
Each of these 3 devices has received positive feedback from consumers. However, two of these handheld devices standout since they provide you with the better quality no noise experiences and they are the Zoom H4NPro Digital Recorders (version 2009 and version 2016).