Zoom and Tascam both produce many fantastic portable audio recording device models. There are so many models that it can be overwhelming to figure out which one will suite your needs. Where do you start?
We recommend looking at the Zoom h4n and the Tascam dr-40.
We’ve compiled information for four categories to provide you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. In addition, we’ve also provided our overall recommendation between the two. The four categories we analyzed are: overall product dimensions, microphone and input / output information, accessories and special features.
Overall Product Dimensions
The Zoom h4n is the slightly larger model between these two. The overall product dimensions for the Zoom h4n are 73mm W x 156mm D x 35mm H. The overall weight is 280g.
The Tascam dr-40 has overall product dimensions of 70mm W x 155mm H x 35mm D. the overall weight is 213g.
Microphone and Input / Output Information
The Zoom h4n is a four-channel portable audio recording device. It features unidirectional condenser microphones.
The input options consist of an XLR balanced input / unbalanced standard input combo jack.
The output options for the Zoom h4n are a live output externa mini stereo phone jack.
The Tascam dr-40 is also a four-channel portable audio recording device. It features unidirectional, stereo built-in microphones.
The input options include a XLR/TRS combo jack and a 1/8” stereo mini unbalanced jack. The output is also a stereo mini jack.
Accessories
The Zoom h4n included accessories feature a 2 GB SD memory card, windscreen, MA2 mic chip adapter, AC adapter, USB cable, Cabase LW software and a protective case.
The accessories available for purchase for the Zoom h4n include the following: RC4 remote control and an APH-4n DSLR accessory package. The accessory package includes the remote control, Hot Shoe mount adapter, windscreen, splinter cable and an alternator cable.
The Tascam dr-40 included accessories feature a 2 GB micro SD card, USB connection cable and two AA batteries.
The accessories available for purchase for the Tascam dr-40 include the following: RC-20 wired remote control, PS-P5154 power supply, WS-DR2 windscreen, RC-3F footswitch remote and the BP-6AA battery pack.
Special Features
Both the Zoom h4n and the Tascam dr-40 have fantastic special features.
The special features found on the Zoom h4n include the following:
- Full-dot backlit LCD display
- Five metronome sound sources
- Multiple tuners, including:
- Chromatic
- Guitar
- Bass
- Open A/D/E/G
- DADGAD
- Pre-record and auto-record features
- Compatible with WAV and MP3 file formats
- Tripod mountable
- Capable of mounting directly onto a camera through the Hot Shoe adapter (purchased separately)
- Multiple features:
- Compression
- Low-cut filter
- Modulation
- Delay/reverb
- Playback
- 99 marks per recording
The special features found on the Tascam dr-40 include the following:
- Chromatic tuner
- Tripod mountable
- Compatible with WAV, MWF and MP3 file formats
- Overdub feature
- Dual recording
- Playback modes
Overall Product Recommendation
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Between the two models, the overall product recommendation goes to the Zoom h4n. While they both have great features, the additional tuners and multiple features like the delay/reverb make the Zoom h4n the better model.
As an added bonus, the amount of included accessories for the Zoom h4n is almost double that of the Tascam dr-40.
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