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Proper display is not possible on grayscale devices.

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Summary of Contents for Zoom H4essential

Page 1 Operation Manual You must read the Usage and Safety Precautions before use. ©2024 ZOOM CORPORATION Copying or reprinting this manual in part or in whole without permission is prohibited. Product names, registered trademarks and company names in this document are the property of their respective companies. All trademarks and registered trademarks in this document are for identiﬁcation purposes only and are not intended to infringe on the copyrights of their respective owners.
Page 2: Notes About This Operation Manual
• Recording from copyrighted sources, including CDs, records, tapes, live performances, video works and broadcasts, without permission of the copyright holder for any purpose other than personal use is prohibited by law. ZOOM CORPORATION will not assume any responsibility related to infringements of copyrights.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Contents Notes about this Operation Manual........................2 H4essential overview..............................6 Achieving high audio quality throughout recording and editing................. 6 Functions of parts..............................10 Overview of screens that appear........................... 15 Recording process..............................26 Making preparations..............................27 Inserting microSD cards............................27 Supplying power................................ 28 Connecting input devices............................
Page 4 Connecting to computers, smartphones and tablets..................89 Making input settings and monitoring adjustments................... 93 Making output settings.............................94 Recording on the H4essential while using it as an audio interface..............96 Disconnecting from computers, smartphones and tablets................97 Transferring ﬁles to computers and other devices..................... 98 Connecting to computers, smartphones and tablets..................98...
Page 5 Appendix................................... 134 Troubleshooting...............................134 H4essential metadata list............................136 Speciﬁcations................................140...
Page 6: H4Essential Overview
H4essential overview Achieving high audio quality throughout recording and editing With dual A/D converter circuits and support for 32-bit ﬂoat WAV ﬁles, the H4essential can maintain the highest audio quality from recording through editing in a DAW or other software. NOTE On the H4essential, only the INPUT 1 and INPUT 2 jacks have dual A/D converter circuits.
Page 7 Dual A/D converter circuit overview For each input circuit, the H4essential has two A/D converters with diﬀerent input gains. This design enables high-quality audio recording without the need to adjust gain settings, a step that is normally indispensable. NOTE On the H4essential, only the INPUT 1 and INPUT 2 jacks have dual A/D converter circuits.
Page 8 Switching between two A/D converters The H4essential constantly monitors data from the two A/D converters, and automatically selects the one that provides the best recording results. Low noise No clipping Low noise because high-gain because low-gain because high-gain AD converter selected...
Page 9 Volume raised Clipping advantage If a waveform sounds clipped when output from the H4essential or in a DAW, it can be edited after recording to lower its volume and restore an unclipped waveform because the data in the 32-bit ﬂoat WAV ﬁle itself is not clipped.
Page 10: Functions Of Parts
Functions of parts Top and bottom ■ Top ■ Bottom ❶ Built-in XY mic This stereo mic has two crossing directional mics. This mic can record three-dimensional sound with natural depth and width. ❷ Display This shows various types of information. ❸...
Page 11 If headphones are connected to the PHONE/LINE OUT jack, sound will not be output from the speaker. ⓫ Tripod mounting threads This can be used to attach the H4essential to a tripod, for example. ⓬ Battery cover Open this when installing or removing AA batteries. (→...
Page 12 Connect this to a computer, smartphone or tablet to use ﬁle transfer functions and to use the H4essential as an audio interface. This supports operation on USB bus power. ❽ REMOTE connector Connect a ZOOM BTA-1 or other dedicated wireless adapter here. This enables use of the H4essential Control smartphone/tablet app to operate the H4essential wirelessly.
Page 13 In addition, this enables SMPTE timecode to be input to the H4essential using an UltraSync BLUE made by Timecode Systems. ❾ POWER/HOLD switch Use this to turn the power on/oﬀ and to disable button operation.
Page 14 ■ Front end ❶ INPUT 1 and 2 jacks Connect mics and instruments to these. These can be used with XLR and TRS plugs. When disconnecting an XLR plug, pull it while pushing the connector lock release button. TIP: HOT 1: GND RING: COLD 2: HOT...
Page 15: Overview Of Screens That Appear
In this section, we explain the screens shown on the display of the H4essential. Home Screen This screen appears on the display when the H4essential power is turned on. This shows conditions of the H4essential, including recording status and input signal waveforms.
Page 16 • Managing microSD cards) • USB: This opens a screen to connect the H4essential to a computer, smartphone or tablet in order to check and move ﬁles on the microSD card and make audio interface settings. (→ Managing microSD cards,...
Page 17 HINT When the Playback Screen or a settings screen is open (with some exceptions), press to return to the Home Screen.
Page 18 Home Screen is open, pressing to start playback will open this screen on the display. This shows playback conditions of the H4essential, including playback time and recording ﬁle waveforms. ❶ Status icon The playback status is shown by an icon.
Page 19 • 1: Input 1 • 2: Input 2 The waveform will be shown in gray when a track is oﬀ. ❻ Mark bar This shows a mark added to the ﬁle being played back. ❼ Menu bar This shows icons for various setting items so settings screens, including output and repeat, can be opened and settings can be made easily.
Page 20 File List Screen When the Home Screen Playback Screen is open, use to select (File List) and press to open it. This lists the ﬁles on the microSD card on the display, allowing the content of the card to be checked and ﬁles to be played and moved to the TRASH folder, for example.
Page 21 ❻ File list This shows the ﬁles on the microSD card in a list. • Use to select ﬁles. • When a list has more ﬁles than will ﬁt on the display, a scrollbar will appear on the right edge. •...
Page 22 Mixer Screen Press to open this. The volume balance of sound from all inputs and playback tracks can be mixed. ❶ Status icon The playback status is shown by an icon. • Recording • Recording paused • Playing back • Playback paused •...
Page 23 ❺ Volume setting These show the volume settings for each track. ❻ Level meters These level meters show the monitoring levels for each track. ❼ Track status These show the names and statuses of tracks. • Track 1 on • Track 1 oﬀ...
Page 24 Input Settings Screen Use this screen to make settings related to inputs. to select a setting item or value, and press to conﬁrm. ❶ Name of input being set ❷ Remaining battery charge This is shown when operating on batteries. When the remaining battery charge becomes low, replace the batteries (→...
Page 25 Other settings screens Other screens can be used to make settings related to output, recording, SD cards, USB and the system. to select a setting item or value, and press to conﬁrm. ❶ to select this and press to return to the Home Screen.
Page 26: Recording Process
Recording process Recording follows the process shown below. • Load a microSD card (→ Inserting microSD cards) • Prepare the power (→ Installing batteries, Connecting an AC adapter) Preparation before • Connect mics, for example, to inputs (→ Connecting input devices) recording •...
Page 27: Making Preparations
(→ Formatting microSD cards) • When an SD card that has not been used with the H4essential before is loaded in it, an SD card test screen will open. to open the SD card screen and test the card. (→...
Page 28: Supplying Power
Supplying power The H4essential can operate using batteries or a power supply connected to the USB port (AC adapter, USB bus power or portable battery). Power from a power supply connected to the USB port will be used before batteries.
Page 29 Connect the cable of a dedicated AC adapter (AD-17) to the USB port (Type-C) and connect the adapter to an outlet. Using other power sources By connecting the USB port (Type-C) to a computer, the H4essential can be operated using USB bus power. Moreover, it can also be powered by a 5V portable battery (commercially-available).
Page 30: Connecting Input Devices
Connecting mics and other devices to inputs 1 and 2 In addition to input from the built-in XY mic, the H4essential also has inputs 1 and 2 as well as a MIC/LINE IN jack that supports plug-in power. These can be used together to input up to 4 channels.
Page 31 • Direct input of passive guitars and basses is not supported. Connect these instruments through a mixer or eﬀects device. NOTE To make handling the levels of input signals easy, the H4essential sets input levels according to the types of plugs connected to the input jacks. • When connecting mic-level devices, use XLR plugs.
Page 32 Connect a lavalier mic, for example, to the MIC/LINE IN jack. The H4essential has a MIC/LINE IN jack that can be used to connect an external mic or line-level device. By turning on the plug-in power setting, this jack can also provide plug-in power to mics that use it. (→...
Page 33 Recording audio is possible in the following kinds of situations. ■ Recording performances with a voice and instrument The sound of an instrument being played can be recorded using the built-in XY mic of the H4essential while vocals are recorded with a connected mic.
Page 34 ■ Live streaming a podcast Audio can be streamed in real time using the H4essential and connected mics. (→ Using as an audio interface) While streaming audio in real time, the H4essential can simultaneously record. (→ Recording on the H4essential while using it as an audio interface) ■...
Page 35 HINT If the H4essential is placed directly on a table when recording using its built-in XY mic, reﬂected sound can interfere with recording and reduce clarity. We recommend using a tripod, for example, to distance it from the table. Placing something like a handkerchief can also be eﬀective in reducing sound reﬂected from a table.
Page 36: Turning The Power On/Off
Setting the type of batteries used (ﬁrst time starting up)) NOTE • The H4essential can be set so that its power will automatically turn oﬀ if it is not used for a set amount of time. (→ Setting the time until the power turns oﬀ...
Page 37 The display will darken and the power will turn oﬀ. NOTE • While “Please wait. Saving data…” is shown, the current settings of the H4essential are being saved. While “Please wait. Saving data…” is shown, do not disconnect the AC adapter or remove the batteries.
Page 38: Setting The Guide Sound (First Time Starting Up)
Setting the guide sound (ﬁrst time starting up) The ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase as well as after the H4essential has been reset to factory defaults, set the guide sound when a screen to set it is shown.
Page 39: Setting The Language Shown (First Time Starting Up)
Setting the language shown (ﬁrst time starting up) The ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase as well as when the H4essential has been reset to factory defaults, set the display language when a screen to set it is shown after setting the guide sound.
Page 40: Setting The Date Format (First Time Starting Up)
Setting the date format (ﬁrst time starting up) The ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase as well as after the H4essential has been reset to factory defaults, set the date format when a screen to set it is shown after setting the display language.
Page 41: Setting The Date And Time (First Time Starting Up)
Setting the date and time (ﬁrst time starting up) The ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase as well as after the H4essential has been reset to factory defaults, set the date and time when a screen to set them is shown after setting the date format.
Page 42 HINT • The date and time settings can also be changed later on the System Settings Screen. (→ Setting the date time) • Use to select and press to return to the previous setting screen.
Page 43: Setting The Type Of Batteries Used (First Time Starting Up)
Setting the type of batteries used (ﬁrst time starting up) The ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase as well as after the H4essential has been reset to factory defaults, set the type of batteries used in the H4essential when a screen to set it is shown after setting the date and time.
Page 44: Preventing Misoperation (Hold Function)
Preventing misoperation (HOLD function) In order to prevent misoperation, the hold function can be used to disable the buttons on the H4essential. Slide to HOLD. This turns on the HOLD function, disabling operations using all buttons. To deactivate the HOLD function, slide...
Page 45: Making Input Settings
Making input settings Enabling tracks for recording Select which of the MIC (built-in XY mic) and input 1–2 tracks to record. When the Home Screen is open, press the buttons of the tracks that you want to record. The status indicators for selected tracks will light red. •...
Page 46: Converting Built-In Xy Mic Input To Mono
Converting built-in XY mic input to mono Input from the built-in XY mic can be mixed to a single channel and handled as mono audio. On the Home Screen, use to select (Input) and press This opens the Input Settings Screen.
Page 47: Setting Plug-In Power
Setting plug-in power Make the following setting when a mic that is compatible with plug-in power is connected to MIC/LINE IN jack. On the Home Screen, use to select (Input) and press This opens the Input Settings Screen. to select and press to select "Plugin Power”...
Page 48: Setting Phantom Power
Setting phantom power H4essential inputs 1 and 2 support phantom power and can provide +48 V. Turn on phantom power when condenser mics that require it are connected. This can be turned on/oﬀ separately for each input. On the Home...
Page 49 HINT Phantom power is a function that supplies power to devices that require an external power supply, including some condenser mics. +48 V is common.
Page 50: Reducing Noise (Lo Cut)
Reducing noise (Lo Cut) Low frequencies can be cut to reduce the sound of wind and vocal pop noises, for example. On the Home Screen, use to select (Input) and press This opens the Input Settings Screen. to select the input for which you want to set Lo Cut and press •...
Page 51: Enabling Stereo Linking
Enabling stereo linking Using stereo-linking, input signals from inputs 1 and 2 can be handled as stereo audio. On the Home Screen, use to select (Input) and press This opens the Input Settings Screen. to select an input that you want to stereo link ( ) and press to select “1&2 Link”, and press...
Page 52 to select the item to set and press Setting Explanation Oﬀ Input signals will be handled as mono audio. Stereo The input signals from inputs 1 and 2 will be handled as stereo audio. Input 1 will become the left channel and input 2 will become the right channel.
Page 53: Setting The Side Level When Recording Mid-Side Stereo
At this time, the stereo width can be adjusted by altering the side mic recording level. With the H4essential, the side level of the mid-side input signals can be set before recording, allowing the stereo width of the input sound to be adjusted.
Page 54 to select “Side Level” and press to set the side level and press Setting Explanation –24 – +6 As the value increases, so does the stereo width. Mute The side mic will be muted. The mid signal will be recorded to the left channel and the side signal will be recorded to the right channel of the stereo ﬁle.
Page 55: Making Output Settings
Settings can be made for output to the built-in speaker, headphones and connected devices. When connecting another device, minimize its input gain and use an audio cable to connect its external mic jack to the PHONE/LINE OUT jack on the H4essential. HINT When output to an external device is unnecessary, disconnecting the cable from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack can increase the amount of operation time when using batteries.
Page 56 to select how the output level is adjusted, and press Setting Explanation Knob to adjust the output level. Fixed Adjustment of has no eﬀect. Follow the instructions in “Adjusting the ﬁxed level” to adjust the level.
Page 57: Adjusting The Fixed Level
• Selecting “Mute” silences the output from the built-in speaker and PHONE/LINE OUT jack. To output a test tone from the H4essential and adjust the output level, press While checking the audio level meter of the connected device, adjust the input gain of that device until...
Page 58 HINT The test tone is a 1kHz sine wave at –20 dBFS. After adjusting the input gain of the connected device, press This stops test tone output. NOTE • See the manual of the connected device for information about its operation. •...
Page 59: Recording
Recording When recording with the H4essential, every selected track is recorded separately. In addition, all signals are mixed and simultaneously recorded as a stereo ﬁle. Screen. (→ The stereo ﬁle is recorded with the balance of signals set on the...
Page 60 NOTE • The volume output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack is also aﬀected by volume adjustments made on Screen. Adjust the headphone volume after adjusting the input mix levels. (→ Mixer Adjusting the monitoring balance of input sounds) • The built-in speaker cannot be used for monitoring while recording. •...
Page 61: Adjusting The Monitoring Balance Of Input Sounds
Adjusting the monitoring balance of input sounds On the H4essential Mixer Screen, the monitoring balance of all inputs can be adjusted. Moreover, the volumes of the input sounds and their stereo mix signal can be checked with the level meters.
Page 62 Repeat steps 2–3 to adjust the overall volume balance. When done adjusting press to return to the Home Screen. NOTE • The input track buttons ( ) can be pressed to turn on/oﬀ their inputs. • On the Mixer Screen, can be used to start recording and can be used to stop it in the same way as on the...
Page 63: Making Recording Settings
NOTE • The only bit depth that can be used for recording is 32-bit ﬂoat. • To use the H4essential to record while using it as an audio interface, set the sample rate to 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. (→...
Page 64 Capturing audio before recording starts (pre-recording) The input signal is always buﬀered for a set amount of time, so it can be captured (pre-recorded) for up to 2 seconds before the time when is operated to start recording. This is useful when is operated late, for example.
Page 65 Recording with levels adjusted on the Mixer Screen When recording, the levels of the sounds as input or the levels as adjusted on the Mixer Screen can be used. On the Home Screen, use to select (Rec Settings) and press This opens the Rec Settings Screen.
Page 66 Half-second tone signals (recording start tones) can be output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack when recording is started. Since recording start tones are also written to recording ﬁles, when recording audio for video with the H4essential, sending its output signal to the camera input can make synchronizing audio and video easier. On the Home...
Page 67 Use a stereo mini jack cable to connect the input jack of the camera to the H4essential PHONE/LINE OUT jack. NOTE Be careful with the volume if you are monitoring the input sound with headphones, for example.
Page 68 Writing metadata (iXML chunks) to recording ﬁles Various related information (metadata) stored in iXML chunks can be written to recorded ﬁles. On the Home Screen, use to select (Rec Settings) and press This opens the Rec Settings Screen. to select “Metadata (iXML) and press to conﬁrm.
Page 69: Recording
Recording Press when the Home Screen is open. The REC indicator will light red, the name of the recording ﬁle will appear on the display and recording will start. This shows the elapsed recording time when recording. NOTE The ﬁle name will be the date followed by the hour, minute and second using the set date and time (Setting the date and time).
Page 70 A maximum of 99 marks can be added in a ﬁle. • Files are automatically saved at regular intervals during recording. If the power is interrupted or another problem occurs during recording, an aﬀected ﬁle can be restored to normal by playing it with the H4essential.
Page 71: Adding Marks During Recording
Adding marks during recording Marks can be added to ﬁles while recording. Added marks are shown on the Playback Screen, and can be used to move the playback position to a mark. While recording, use to select (Mark) in the Menu bar and press This will add a mark at the position of the current elapsed recording time.
Page 72: Moving The File Being Recorded To The Trash Folder
• Files moved to the TRASH folder are saved in the TRASH folder created on the SD card, but their information cannot be checked and they cannot be played back by the H4essential. To check or play them, connect and use a computer, smartphone or tablet. (→...
Page 73: Playing Recordings
Playing recordings Playing recordings Press when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Playback Screen on the display and starts playback of the most recently recorded ﬁle. to adjust the headphone or speaker volume. The volume can also be adjusted separately for each track.
Page 74 “240101_000000_Tr1.WAV” and “240101_000000_Tr2.WAV” have been created in a ﬁle folder, they will be shown as a single ﬁle named “240101_000000” on the File List Screen. If this ﬁle is selected and deleted, this operation will be applied to all ﬁles in the ﬁle folder. (→ H4essential folder and ﬁle structure) HINT Track keys ( ) can be pressed to turn on/oﬀ...
Page 75: Adjusting The Volume Balance Of All Tracks
Adjusting the volume balance of all tracks Press on the Playback Screen. This opens the Mixer Screen. to select the track for which you want to adjust the volume and press to adjust the volume and press This conﬁrms the adjusted volume. Repeat steps 2–3 to adjust the overall volume balance.
Page 76: Making Output Settings
NOTE • The track buttons ( ) can be pressed to turn on/oﬀ those tracks. • On the Mixer Screen, operations can be conducted using as on the Playback Screen. • Press to return to the Home Screen. • Volume adjustments made on the Mixer Screen can be applied to ﬁles created when exporting. (→ Changing the format and exporting ﬁles) Making output settings...
Page 77: Automatic Volume Adjustment During Playback
Automatic volume adjustment during playback By setting “Audio Normalization” to “On”, the playback volume can be evened out regardless of recording levels. On the Playback Screen, use to select (Output) and press This opens the Output Settings Screen. to select “Audio Normalization” and press to select “On”, and press...
Page 78: Changing The Playback Speed
Changing the playback speed The playback speed can be changed. On the Playback Screen, use to select (Output) and press This opens the Output Settings Screen. to select “Playback Speed” and press to select the playback speed and press The following speeds can be selected. 50% (half speed), 75%, 100% (normal), 125%, 150%, 200% (double speed)
Page 79: Repeat Playback Of A Set Interval (A-B Repeat)
Repeat playback of a set interval (A-B repeat) Playback can be repeated between two set points. On the Playback Screen, use to select (A-B Repeat) and press to set the A point (playback starting point) and press Pressing conﬁrms the A point and the A marker becomes blue. to select the B point and press to set the B (playback ending point) and press •...
Page 80 This reopens the Playback Screen. NOTE The interval speciﬁed using the A-B Repeat function can be applied when exporting. (→ Changing the format and exporting ﬁles) HINT Since the A (playback start) and B (playback end) points can be moved during playback, changing the playback start and end positions, they can be set while checking the playback sound.
Page 81: Changing The Format And Exporting Files
Changing the format and exporting ﬁles The H4essential can only record using 32-bit ﬂoat format, but recorded ﬁles can be converted to other formats and exported. This is convenient, for example, when loading ﬁles recorded on the H4essential to a computer, smartphone or tablet if the application being used does not support 32-bit ﬂoat format.
Page 82 Select whether or not to export using a speciﬁed range. to select “Range” and press . Then, use to select the setting and press Setting Explanation This exports the range between the two points set using Repeat playback of a set interval (A-B repeat).
Page 83 - FF: Name of the ﬁle folder that holds the exported ﬁle - BB: Bit depth (“16” when 16-bit selected, “24” when 24-bit selected or nothing when 32-bit ﬂoat selected) - NN: Normalization setting (“NORM” when on or nothing when oﬀ) • The H4essential cannot play ﬁles in the Export folder.
Page 84: Moving The File Being Played To The Trash Folder
NOTE • Files moved to the TRASH folder are saved there, but their information cannot be checked and they cannot be played back by the H4essential. To check or play them, connect and use a computer, smartphone or tablet. (→...
Page 85: Managing Files
Files created on the H4essential will be saved on the microSD card. Recording ﬁles on the microSD card can be checked and deleted. H4essential folder and ﬁle structure Folder and ﬁle structure When recording with the H4essential, ﬁles are created on microSD cards in the following manner. Root ❶ File folders These are created each time recording is conducted.
Page 86 ❺ TRASH folder The TRASH folder is created automatically when an SD card is loaded in the H4essential. Files that have been moved to the TRASH folder are saved inside it. (→ Moving the ﬁle being recorded to the TRASH folder, Moving the ﬁle being played to the TRASH...
Page 87 Recording ﬁle names Files are named with the following format. File name example Explanation ❶ Date The date of recording is included numerically. The numbers follow the set order (Setting the date format). ❷ Time The hour, minute and second are included numerically. ❸...
Page 88: Checking Files
“240101_000000_Tr1.WAV” and “240101_000000_Tr2.WAV” have been created in a ﬁle folder, they will be shown as a single ﬁle named “240101_000000” on the File List Screen. If this ﬁle is selected and deleted, this operation will be applied to all ﬁles in the ﬁle folder. (→ H4essential folder and ﬁle structure) HINT to return to the Home Screen.
Page 89: Using As An Audio Interface
Using as an audio interface Signals input to the H4essential can be sent to a computer, smartphone or tablet, and playback signals from that device can be output from the H4essential. Moreover, the H4essential can record even when it is being used as an audio interface.
Page 90 ❷ Smartphone/tablet (Lightning) ❸ Computer (Windows/Mac) NOTE • Use a USB cable that supports data transfer. • A Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter is necessary to connect to an iOS/iPadOS device with a Lighting connector. On the Home Screen, use to select (USB) and press The USB screen will open.
Page 91 Audio I/F Only The H4essential will not record or play back when it is being used as an audio interface. NOTE • “Audio I/F + REC” can be selected only when the sample rate is set to 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz. (→...
Page 92 “Input/Output” device. NOTE • If “H4essential” cannot be selected for the “Sound” setting on a computer, it can still be used as a 32-bit ﬂoat audio interface by selecting “H4essential” as the “Audio” or “Input/Output” device in an application that supports 32-bit ﬂoat format.
Page 93: Making Input Settings And Monitoring Adjustments
Making input settings and monitoring adjustments When using the H4essential as an audio interface, input settings and monitoring adjustments can be made in the same way as when using it as a recorder. See the references below and make input settings and monitoring adjustments.
Page 94: Making Output Settings
Making output settings Adjusting the output level The line output level used for output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack to headphones or another device during use as an audio interface can be adjusted. For details about operation, see “Making output settings”.
Page 95 This function allows playback sound from a computer, smartphone or tablet and sounds input to the H4essential to be mixed and sent again (looped back) to the computer, smartphone or tablet. This function can be used to add narration to music played back from a computer and to record the mix or stream it on that computer, for example.
Page 96: Recording On The H4Essential While Using It As An Audio Interface
ﬁles be written to recorded ﬁles. NOTE The sample rate of the H4essential itself cannot be changed when the Mode is set to “Audio I/F + REC” as explained in “Connecting to computers, smartphones and tablets”. To change the sample rate, disconnect from the computer, smartphone or tablet.
Page 97: Disconnecting From Computers, Smartphones And Tablets
Disconnecting from computers, smartphones and tablets On the Home Screen, use to select (EXIT) and press to select “Exit” and press...
Page 98: Transferring Files To Computers And Other Devices
Transferring ﬁles to computers and other devices By connecting the H4essential with a computer, smartphone or tablet, ﬁles on the microSD card can be checked and moved. Connecting to computers, smartphones and tablets On the Home Screen, use to select (USB) and press The USB screen will open.
Page 99 • When “Mobile Device” is selected, power will not be supplied from the other device. Instead, the H4essential will operate using the batteries in it. Use a USB (Type-C) cable to connect the H4essential with a computer, smartphone or tablet. ❶...
Page 100: Disconnecting From Computers, Smartphones And Tablets
Conduct disconnection procedures on the computer, smartphone or tablet. • Windows: Select the H4essential from "Safely Remove Hardware". • macOS: Drag the H4essential icon to the Trash and drop it. • Smartphone/tablet: See the operation manual for the device. Press to select “Exit”...
Page 101: Managing Microsd Cards
Managing microSD cards Formatting microSD cards To maximize the performance of a microSD card, use the H4essential to format it. On the Home Screen, use to select (SD card) and press The SD Card screen will open. to select “Format” and press to select “Execute”...
Page 102: Testing Microsd Cards
The writing speed of microSD cards can be tested to check if performance is good enough to save the data recorded by the H4essential. A Quick Test can be done in a short amount of time, while a Full Test examines the entire microSD card.
Page 103 HINT During a test, can be pressed to stop it.
Page 104 Conducting a full test On the Home Screen, use to select (SD card) and press The SD Card screen will open. to select “Full Test” and press The amount of time required for the full test will be shown. to select “Execute” and press The card performance test will start.
Page 105: Deleting Files In The Trash Folder
Deleting ﬁles in the TRASH folder Files moved to the TRASH folder can be deleted, emptying it. On the Home Screen, use to select (SD card) and press The SD Card screen will open. to select “Empty Trash” and press to select “Execute”...
Page 106: Using Timecode
Using timecode Timecode overview SMPTE timecode can be input to the H4essential by using an UltraSync BLUE made by Timecode Systems. Timecode is time information written to data when recording video and audio. It is used for video editing, control of other devices, and synchronization of audio and video, for example.
Page 107 Inputting timecode The UltraSync BLUE made by Timecode Systems transmits timecode, which is received by both the H4essential and the video camera, resulting in timecode being recorded in both the audio data and the video data. The timecode is transmitted and received by Bluetooth.
Page 108: Connecting With An Ultrasync Blue
Connecting with an UltraSync BLUE If the H4essential is connected to an UltraSync BLUE, it can receive timecode from the UltraSync BLUE and add it to recording ﬁles. To connect an UltraSync BLUE, a BTA-1 or other dedicated wireless adapter must be connected to the H4essential.
Page 109 “Timecode” and press Searching for the device to connect will begin and “Searching” will appear on the display. NOTE If the H4essential and the UltraSync BLUE have been connected, when a screen like the following appears, make a selection. Setting...
Page 110 HINT • See the UltraSync BLUE manual for the procedures to select connected devices. • Use the H4essential and the UltraSync BLUE as close together as possible to make communication more reliable. • If communication with the UltraSync BLUE is interrupted while recording, timecode data will not be added to the remainder of the recording.
Page 111: Making Various Settings
Making various settings Setting the language shown The language shown on the H4essential screens can be changed. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Language” and press to select the language you want shown and press HINT The ﬁrst time you turn the power on after purchase or restoring default settings, this screen opens...
Page 112: Setting The Date And Time
Setting the date and time Use this to set the date and time added to recording ﬁles. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Date/Time” and press to select “Set Date/Time” and press to select the item to set and press to change the value, and press...
Page 113 Repeat steps 4–5 to set the date and time. After setting all the items, use to select and press HINT The ﬁrst time you turn the power on after purchase or restoring default settings, this screen opens automatically after setting the date format.
Page 114: Setting The Date Format
Setting the date format Use this to change the date format used when recording ﬁles. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Date/Time” and press to select “Date Format” and press to select a date format and press A speciﬁc example of the set date format will be shown at the bottom right of the screen using the current date setting.
Page 115 HINT The ﬁrst time you turn the power on after purchase or restoring default settings, this screen opens automatically after setting the language shown.
Page 116: Setting Display Power Saving
Setting display power saving In order to conserve energy, the display backlight can be set to dim if no operation is conducted for a speciﬁc amount of time. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Power”...
Page 117: Setting The Display Brightness
Setting the display brightness The brightness of the display can be adjusted if it is diﬃcult to see because it is too dim or too intense. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Display Brightness”...
Page 118: Setting The Type Of Batteries Used
Setting the type of batteries used Set the type of batteries used by the H4essential so that the amount of remaining battery charge can be shown accurately. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen.
Page 119 HINT The ﬁrst time you turn the power on after purchase or restoring default settings, the battery type setting appears automatically after setting the date and time.
Page 120: Setting The Time Until The Power Turns Off Automatically
Setting the time until the power turns oﬀ automatically The H4essential can be set so that its power will automatically turn oﬀ if it is not used for a set amount of time. To keep the power on at all times, turn oﬀ the automatic power saving setting.
Page 121 The power will not turn oﬀ automatically under the following conditions regardless of the Auto Power Oﬀ setting. • During recording or playback • When the H4essential is in use as an audio interface • When the H4essential ﬁle transfer function is in use • During card tests...
Page 122: Using The Guide Sound Accessibility Feature
Using the guide sound accessibility feature Setting the guide sound (accessibility) With this function, the names of selected setting items can be read aloud and a beeping sound can be used to notify the occurrence of error messages, recording starting/stopping and volume adjustment, for example.
Page 123 to select the setting and press Setting Explanation Oﬀ This turns oﬀ the guide sound. XXX + Beep Setting items will be read aloud in the installed language. A beeping (“XXX” shows the installed sound will be used to notify the occurrence of error messages, language.) recording starting/stopping and volume adjustment, for example.
Page 124: Setting The Guide Sound Volume
Setting the guide sound volume The volume of the reading voice and beep sounds can be adjusted. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Accessibility” and press to select “Volume” and press to select the volume and press The volume can be set to Quiet, Mild or Loud.
Page 125: Checking Guide Sound Information
Checking guide sound information The language and version used for the accessibility guide sounds can be checked. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Accessibility” and press to select “Version” and press This opens the Version Screen where the language and version used for the accessibility guide sounds can be checked.
Page 126: Installing Guide Sounds
The guide sound is English at the time of purchase. Guide sound installation can be used to change the language and update the feature. Download the most recent accessibility installation ﬁle necessary to install the guide sound from the ZOOM website (zoomcorp.com).
Page 127: Restoring The Factory Default State
“Factory Reset” and press to select “Execute” and press This will restore the H4essential to its factory default state and turn the power oﬀ. NOTE Initializing settings will overwrite all settings with their factory defaults. Be certain before using this function.
Page 128: Managing The Firmware
Managing the ﬁrmware Checking the ﬁrmware versions The ﬁrmware versions used by the H4essential can be checked. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Firmware” and press This shows the ﬁrmware versions.
Page 129: Updating The Firmware
Updating the ﬁrmware The H4essential ﬁrmware can be updated to the latest versions. Files for the latest ﬁrmware updates can be downloaded from the ZOOM website (zoomcorp.com). Follow the instructions in the “H4essential Firmware Update Guide” on the H4essential download page.
Page 130: Operating The H4Essential From A Smartphone/Tablet
• The H4essential Control app must be installed on the smartphone or tablet beforehand. The H4essential Control app can be downloaded from the App Store. Refer to the manual for the H4essential Control app for details about app settings and operation procedures.
Page 131 System and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Bluetooth” and press to select “H4essential Control” and press Searching for the device to connect will begin and “Searching” will appear on the display. HINT Searching can be canceled by pressing...
Page 132: Disconnecting From Smartphones And Tablets
Launch the H4essential Control app on the smartphone or tablet. Then, conduct connection procedures from the app. When connection completes “H4essential Control Connected!” will appear on the display. Refer to the manual for the H4essential Control app for details about app settings and operation procedures. Disconnecting from smartphones and tablets Disconnection is possible by quitting the app on the smartphone or tablet.
Page 133: Checking The Latest Information For The H4Essential
Checking the latest information for the H4essential A 2D code for help related to the product can be shown on the H4essential display. On the Home Screen, use to select (System) and press This opens the System Settings Screen. to select “Help” and press Use a smartphone or tablet, for example, to scan the 2D code shown on the Help Screen.
Page 134: Appendix
Appendix Troubleshooting If you think that the H4essential is operating strangely, check the following items ﬁrst. Recording/playback trouble There is no sound or output is very quiet • Check the orientation of the mic or the volume settings of the connected equipment.
Page 135 • Conﬁrm that the computer, smartphone or tablet and the application being used are compatible with 32-bit ﬂoat format. • Even if “H4essential” cannot be selected for the “Sound” setting on a computer, it can still be used as a 32-bit ﬂoat audio interface by selecting “H4essential” as the “Audio” or “Input/Output” device in an application that supports 32-bit ﬂoat format.
Page 136: H4Essential Metadata List
H4essential metadata list Metadata contained in BEXT chunks in WAV ﬁles Explanation Remarks zSPEED= Frame rate zTAKE= Take number zUBITS= User bits zSCENE= Scene name System > Date/Time zTAPE= zCIRCLED= zTRKn= Track name zNOTE=...
Page 137 Metadata contained in iXML chunks in WAV ﬁles ○ = YES × = NO iXML master tag iXML sub tag Written Read Remarks ○ <PROJECT> × ○ ○ <SCENE> System > Date/Time ○ <TAKE> × ○ <TAPE> × ○ <CIRCLED> ×...
Page 138 iXML master tag iXML sub tag Written Read Remarks <SYNC_POINT_LIST> <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_TYPE> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_FUNCTION> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_COMMENT> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_LOW> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_HIGH> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_EVENT_DURATION> × × iXML master tag iXML sub tag Written Read Remarks...
Page 139 iXML master tag iXML sub tag Written Read Remarks <TRACK_LIST> ○ <TRACK_LIST> <TRACK_COUNT> × ○ <TRACK> <CHANNEL_INDEX> × ○ <TRACK> <INTERLEAVE_INDEX> × ○ <TRACK> <NAME> × <TRACK> <FUNCTION> × ×...
Page 140: Specifications
Speciﬁcations Input and Inputs Built-in mic (stereo) output MIC/LINE (mono) channels /LINE IN (stereo) Outputs PHONE/LINE OUT (stereo) Built-in speaker (mono) Inputs Built-in mic 90° XY stereo format Directionality Unidirectional Sensitivity −43dB/1Pa at 1kHz Maximum sound pressure 130 dB SPL input MIC/LINE (mono) Connectors...
Page 141 Dedicated wireless adapter (ZOOM BTA-1) Power 2 AA batteries (alkaline, lithium or rechargeable NiMH batteries) AC adapter (ZOOM AD-17): DC 5V/1A • USB bus power is supported. Estimated continuous operation times using 2-track (built-in XY mic) Alkaline batteries: about 9 hours...
Page 142 Dimensions 66.9 mm (W) × 155.7 mm (D) × 37.9 mm (H) Weight 243 g (including batteries) Note: 0 dBu = 0.775 Vrms...
Page 143 ZOOM CORPORATION 4-4-3 Kanda-surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062 Japan zoomcorp.com Z2I-5076-01...

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