I get emails from AMS with new products releases and deals etc. I look through them and most of the time I just end up tossing it not really coveting anything in the mag. Today, that didn't happen. I've always used quick recorders to jot down song ideas, but I've never really been happy with them. I've never had an all in one type recorder, but I think the H4n would do it for me.
I've read reviews over the the H4 and the H2. Most reviews are great for features and usability but alot of complaints were over their construction. The H4n has a rubber casing that everyone is just thrilled about.
Features that I really like are the 4 track recording as well as all the on board signal processors (compression, eq, limiters etc) as well as removable SD cards that are super cheap.
Here is the list
H4n Features - 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
- MP3 recording for increased recording time
- Built-in reference speaker to check recordings
- Shock resistant rubberized body for improved chassis protection
- Broadcast Wave Format (BWF) compatible time stamp and track marker
- Records on SD/SDHC media of up to 32GB for maximum recording time
- Auto-record and pre-record feature so you never miss a moment
- Variable speed playback capability for phrase training
- Stamina mode enables 10 hours of continuous battery life
- Onboard mid-side matrix decoder for additional miking possibilities
- Built-in mounting joint for tripod and mic stand mounting
- USB 2.0 port for faster file transfer
- XLR mic inputs with phantom power allow recording with any mic
- Supports plug-in power type external mics
- Hi-Z Inputs for recording guitar and bass
- Studio effects onboard, including guitar and bass amp modeling
- USB audio interface capability
- Low-cut filter to reduce noise
- Normalizing and file splitting functions
- Mono mix function
- Onboard tuner and metronome
- Includes 1 GB SD card, wind screen, mic clip adapter, AC adapter, USB cable, protective case and Cubase LE recording software
- Optional RC4 remote control available.
All in all this is the only portable recording device you'd ever need, and at a reasonable price. I gotta say I'm seriously considering dropping the cheddar for this. AMS has it for $349.00 or 3 easy payments of $116.33. That's got me salivating.
If you like it click on a link on the side for it.
Looking to warm up your tracks? The Art MPA microphone preamp can give you all the tubey warmth you want at a fraction of the cost of other tube preamps. I've been a huge advocate of ART's mic preamps for years and AMS is having a sale for this one in particular. This dual channel preamp is currently priced at $259.98 and they have a dent and scratch item for $20 cheaper. Below are the details
