Cool. I'll help where I can. I've since sold mine and started using the zoom F6 with it's 32-bit float recording, though, so I don't have one to work with in my hands.
Cheers. Embracing learning sound is my new chapter in my media production and wanting the right tools at my disposal. I just bought a H6, thinking it would make a good commando sound recorder for both instudio and in the field. But was just rethinking it a bit as I always do after I make a purchase...man, it can be overwhelming. Came across your video and now leaning towards returning it spending a little more for the f4 to I can grow with a piece of gear.
The f4 took care of me for a long time. If I was ONLY doing film work, I would have kept it. I've got a few hands-off applications where I can't monitor the audio and I've switched (note, not "upgraded") to the f6. It's proved handy, but I miss my f4. So simple. So straightforward.
Great video! I still have a Zoom F4 brand new in the box. But thinking about purchasing the F6. I guess the changes between the two models are not significant, both just physical size! Maybe not worth it spending the money.
I loved the F4, but aside from a tiny bit of what feels like "build quality," the F6 is better in every way. I liked the heavy feel of the F4, but powering it was a bit of a pain (F6 has built in Sony LP shoe), F6 is smaller, F6 has more inputs, F6 has 32-Float. F4 had easier menu control (I got used to the F6 pretty quick, though), and the F4 could take a 1/4" guitar cable. I'm much happier with the F6 for my use case, but I wish I could plug a guitar directly into it. That's the only thing I actually miss.
@@ShaunHautly I mostly do voice/video recordings, i.e. interviews, meeting, etc. I would think that the F4 should do the homework. So far I've using my H6 and it does the job. It's that the F4 is in sealed box and is keeping me undecided. I don't record music!
I no longer have one (I upgraded to the F6 for 32-float), but I never noticed any drift while I was using it. My recordings were limited to 20-30 minutes, usually. But never noticed any drift.
Hi Shaun, as a current F4 owner think it makes sense to get one of these used late in 2022 . I just sold my H5 and I'm looking for something.else to be used in the filed and on location in the studio. I'm not a professional but more like a prosumer so easy poweri.g options was also a question I had. What price point would you think this makes sense over getting the newer units. Sorry for the long question.
This is a great question. Don't apologize! I now have the F6 which I really like, most notably for its 32-bit float recording. It's a game changer. I'm also VERY interested in the new F3. Smaller form factor, same quality recording. I NEVER use more than two inputs so the F6 is a bit wasted on me. I may switch to the F3 shortly. Meanwhile, the only drawback to the F6 and F3 are that the inputs are XLR only. I miss that the F4 would take a 1/4" guitar cable, for example. The F4 served as a handy tool not just for recording interviews (my job), but also music (my hobby). The F6 and F3 are not able to take a 1/4". So I JUST got the Zoom AMS 24 so I can connect my guitar once again to my iMac and my iPad Pro. So if you need a recorder that can do 1/4" inputs, grab an old F4. If you need the best quality recording in a great form factor, grab an F6 or an F3, depending on your input number needs.
@@ShaunHautly Thanks for the reply. I'm.just thinking that I may be able to get by with the older unit at a good price point that would suit my needs. I've seen the f4's selling for $400-$500 and have just been wondering if thats just too much to spend for the older unit vs getting a newer unit. The f4 has everything I might require but the question is at what price does it bece.more feasible to.get the newer unit. That's for the insight. Ill be giving this some thought.
Great review Shaun - wish I had half your knowledge ! That said c'mon! You're a pro sound guy and you settle for a tiny on-camera mic for this video? Show some pride !
Haha, UA-cam videos that get watched on smart phones don't DESERVE that pristine care. In all seriousness, I seldom use my best gear for UA-cam videos because my priority is usually getting it recorded quickly (in my spare time), so setting up extra mics, cables, syncing things in post, it all just gets between me and a complete video. So for UA-cam stuff, I keep it simple.
Ok, this thing can officially do more stuff then I understand, I am already hella confused by all the stuff my Tascam DR60MkII can do xD thanks for the video Shawn, always love to hear your input on gear :) Do you have your eyes on any new gear you want to pick up? I am currently checking out lenses for my Sony A6400, the kit lense is good, but I want something with a higher (or is it lower?) Apature.
New gear for me is all about lights and grip lately. Continuing to build a kit that I can take anywhere and control and shape the light to look good. Maybe that new 200-600 Sony Tele G. I've got the whole range from 16-200, so I'm in a good place for lenses. If you just got the a6400, fast glass is the way to go. A good, fast prime (large aperture, which is a smaller f-stop number) will treat you well. Sony just released some great new Crop Sensor glass, too.
@@ShaunHautly I would love the Sony E 16-55 F2.8 G but that`s way outside of what I can afford for a lense. Might pick up a Sony E PZ 18-105 F4 G sometime this month, they go for around 400euro, I hear it`s a pretty good lense and the higher apature helps with autofocus (according to Christopher Frost, another UA-camr I religiously watch). Considering all I do is my UA-cam stuff and occasionally work for local video and photo productions, my gear is waaaayyy overblown, but I love it xD
I really like the Rode M1. For Podcasting, in my experience, it's easier to hand someone a microphone that they hold, rather than mount one in front of them. Most people tend to hold it at a consistent distance from their mouth as where they lean toward and away a mounted microphone. The M1's are also very reasonably priced. Every episode of The Hardy and Sons Podcast has been recorded with these microphones.
maybe someone have a problem with v-mount connecting on this device? i have such a problem, my f4 just not see v-mount(( maybe whos knows how to solve this problem?
I found the little hirose to d-tap cable got the job done. Not my favorite, but fine. I'm loving the built in battery mount on the F6, though. Perfect execution.
Unfortunately, they've been discontinued! They're pretty hard to find used as well, but there are some bundles still on Adorama. In my opinion, I'd just get the F6 instead as it's remarkable, but you can't run 1/4" inputs in if that's a deal breaker (some musical instruments, for example).
There are a few ways to do it. The output is really flexible. I’ve done mix minus for live podcasts with it where the audience mics are recorded, but not sent to the house.
@@ShaunHautly I am looking to do the mix minus with Skype using the the Zoom F4 in USB interface mode. Can I have the audio from Skype come in to the device through USB and then sent back to the computer without the caller's voice by controlling the channel output volume over USB. Or is there a way to route like you can do with the Mix Pre-3. I know the Mix Pre-3 can do that as I've seen a video on it (ua-cam.com/video/I-v9kt3VhqQ/v-deo.html). No one is addressing this for the Zoom F4 online. I would greatly appreciate the help as I am seriously considering buying the Zoom F4.
Hey Shaun, thanks for this info. I use a NPF970 battery and it works perfect, small enough to fit in my recorder case and lasts forever.
Good honest review. I’ll hit you up as I work more with my Zoom F4
Cool. I'll help where I can. I've since sold mine and started using the zoom F6 with it's 32-bit float recording, though, so I don't have one to work with in my hands.
Cheers. Embracing learning sound is my new chapter in my media production and wanting the right tools at my disposal. I just bought a H6, thinking it would make a good commando sound recorder for both instudio and in the field. But was just rethinking it a bit as I always do after I make a purchase...man, it can be overwhelming. Came across your video and now leaning towards returning it spending a little more for the f4 to I can grow with a piece of gear.
The f4 took care of me for a long time. If I was ONLY doing film work, I would have kept it. I've got a few hands-off applications where I can't monitor the audio and I've switched (note, not "upgraded") to the f6. It's proved handy, but I miss my f4. So simple. So straightforward.
@@ShaunHautly thank you sir
Great video. I just bought a Zoom F4 and your tips are invaluable.
Happy to help!
I’m looking for a step by step video to show how to adjust output levels on multiple channels on the Zoom F4.
I wish I could help. I’ve upgraded to the F6, which has a different menu setup. I can’t try it myself and make a walkthrough.
Great tips / info. Thank you
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great video! I still have a Zoom F4 brand new in the box. But thinking about purchasing the F6. I guess the changes between the two models are not significant, both just physical size! Maybe not worth it spending the money.
I loved the F4, but aside from a tiny bit of what feels like "build quality," the F6 is better in every way. I liked the heavy feel of the F4, but powering it was a bit of a pain (F6 has built in Sony LP shoe), F6 is smaller, F6 has more inputs, F6 has 32-Float.
F4 had easier menu control (I got used to the F6 pretty quick, though), and the F4 could take a 1/4" guitar cable.
I'm much happier with the F6 for my use case, but I wish I could plug a guitar directly into it. That's the only thing I actually miss.
@@ShaunHautly I mostly do voice/video recordings, i.e. interviews, meeting, etc. I would think that the F4 should do the homework. So far I've using my H6 and it does the job. It's that the F4 is in sealed box and is keeping me undecided. I don't record music!
Thank you for information! Does the zoom F4 timedrift a lot with out the timesync function? The Tascam 60 does timedrift a lot...
I no longer have one (I upgraded to the F6 for 32-float), but I never noticed any drift while I was using it. My recordings were limited to 20-30 minutes, usually. But never noticed any drift.
@@ShaunHautly Thank you for your fast reply!
Hi Shaun, as a current F4 owner think it makes sense to get one of these used late in 2022 . I just sold my H5 and I'm looking for something.else to be used in the filed and on location in the studio. I'm not a professional but more like a prosumer so easy poweri.g options was also a question I had. What price point would you think this makes sense over getting the newer units. Sorry for the long question.
This is a great question. Don't apologize!
I now have the F6 which I really like, most notably for its 32-bit float recording. It's a game changer. I'm also VERY interested in the new F3. Smaller form factor, same quality recording. I NEVER use more than two inputs so the F6 is a bit wasted on me. I may switch to the F3 shortly.
Meanwhile, the only drawback to the F6 and F3 are that the inputs are XLR only. I miss that the F4 would take a 1/4" guitar cable, for example. The F4 served as a handy tool not just for recording interviews (my job), but also music (my hobby). The F6 and F3 are not able to take a 1/4".
So I JUST got the Zoom AMS 24 so I can connect my guitar once again to my iMac and my iPad Pro.
So if you need a recorder that can do 1/4" inputs, grab an old F4.
If you need the best quality recording in a great form factor, grab an F6 or an F3, depending on your input number needs.
@@ShaunHautly Thanks for the reply. I'm.just thinking that I may be able to get by with the older unit at a good price point that would suit my needs. I've seen the f4's selling for $400-$500 and have just been wondering if thats just too much to spend for the older unit vs getting a newer unit. The f4 has everything I might require but the question is at what price does it bece.more feasible to.get the newer unit. That's for the insight. Ill be giving this some thought.
Great review Shaun - wish I had half your knowledge ! That said c'mon! You're a pro sound guy and you settle for a tiny on-camera mic for this video? Show some pride !
Haha, UA-cam videos that get watched on smart phones don't DESERVE that pristine care.
In all seriousness, I seldom use my best gear for UA-cam videos because my priority is usually getting it recorded quickly (in my spare time), so setting up extra mics, cables, syncing things in post, it all just gets between me and a complete video. So for UA-cam stuff, I keep it simple.
Ok, this thing can officially do more stuff then I understand, I am already hella confused by all the stuff my Tascam DR60MkII can do xD thanks for the video Shawn, always love to hear your input on gear :) Do you have your eyes on any new gear you want to pick up? I am currently checking out lenses for my Sony A6400, the kit lense is good, but I want something with a higher (or is it lower?) Apature.
New gear for me is all about lights and grip lately. Continuing to build a kit that I can take anywhere and control and shape the light to look good. Maybe that new 200-600 Sony Tele G. I've got the whole range from 16-200, so I'm in a good place for lenses. If you just got the a6400, fast glass is the way to go. A good, fast prime (large aperture, which is a smaller f-stop number) will treat you well. Sony just released some great new Crop Sensor glass, too.
@@ShaunHautly I would love the Sony E 16-55 F2.8 G but that`s way outside of what I can afford for a lense. Might pick up a Sony E PZ 18-105 F4 G sometime this month, they go for around 400euro, I hear it`s a pretty good lense and the higher apature helps with autofocus (according to Christopher Frost, another UA-camr I religiously watch). Considering all I do is my UA-cam stuff and occasionally work for local video and photo productions, my gear is waaaayyy overblown, but I love it xD
Are the F4's metadata track labels automatically recognized by Davinci Resolve?
I don't know, but probably? They are the standard labeling metadata. FCPX handles them automatically. I don't use resolve, so I can't confirm.
Shaun I’m getting familiar with my F4. Where is the trim for channels 5/6?
It’s buried in the settings somewhere. Unfortunately, I sold my f4 to get my f6, so I can’t test it to find out right now. :-(
I do a lot of podcasting, too. Anticipating a multiple person interview, say 4 persons, what microphones do you recommend?
I really like the Rode M1. For Podcasting, in my experience, it's easier to hand someone a microphone that they hold, rather than mount one in front of them. Most people tend to hold it at a consistent distance from their mouth as where they lean toward and away a mounted microphone. The M1's are also very reasonably priced. Every episode of The Hardy and Sons Podcast has been recorded with these microphones.
@@ShaunHautly Thanks, man. Appreciate your stuff, and this advice.
@@ar8647 Good luck! Send a link to your podcast.
@@ShaunHautly tvterrorshow.com
Very interesting. Thanks
Great info buddy.
thanks
On Tuesday, my F6 arrives and I'll need a new video explaining why I sold the F4 to buy it...
maybe someone have a problem with v-mount connecting on this device? i have such a problem, my f4 just not see v-mount(( maybe whos knows how to solve this problem?
I found the little hirose to d-tap cable got the job done. Not my favorite, but fine. I'm loving the built in battery mount on the F6, though. Perfect execution.
Where do you find the now discontinued F4?
There are a few used ones on Adorama.
Where do I get a Zoom F4 these days?
Unfortunately, they've been discontinued! They're pretty hard to find used as well, but there are some bundles still on Adorama. In my opinion, I'd just get the F6 instead as it's remarkable, but you can't run 1/4" inputs in if that's a deal breaker (some musical instruments, for example).
@@ShaunHautly Alright, thanks.
Love the video. I wonder if they'll ever bring back that form factor with audio interface functionality?
You might have some luck on Craigslist or Ebay. They're built REALLY well, so a used one shouldn't be too much of a gamble.
@@ShaunHautly I'm not much of a used gear guy. But thanks.
does this have 32 float
No, the F4 does NOT have 32 Bit Float. However, the newer F6 does have 32 Float.
Great video! Can you do a mix minus using the USB interface?
There are a few ways to do it. The output is really flexible. I’ve done mix minus for live podcasts with it where the audience mics are recorded, but not sent to the house.
@@ShaunHautly I am looking to do the mix minus with Skype using the the Zoom F4 in USB interface mode. Can I have the audio from Skype come in to the device through USB and then sent back to the computer without the caller's voice by controlling the channel output volume over USB. Or is there a way to route like you can do with the Mix Pre-3. I know the Mix Pre-3 can do that as I've seen a video on it (ua-cam.com/video/I-v9kt3VhqQ/v-deo.html). No one is addressing this for the Zoom F4 online. I would greatly appreciate the help as I am seriously considering buying the Zoom F4.