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Zoom PodTrak P4 User Manual

Zoom PodTrak P4
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P4
You must read the Usage and Safety Precautions before use.
Operation Manual
© 2020 ZOOM CORPORATION
Copying or reprinting this manual in part or in whole without permission is prohibited.
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Table of Contents

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Zoom PodTrak P4 Specifications

Audio Specifications IconAudio Specifications
number of input channels4 (mono/stereo)
number of output channels1 (headphone × 4)
phantom power+48 V
Ports & Interfaces IconPorts & Interfaces
connectorsMIC XLR jacks (2: HOT)
smartphone connection jackTRRS mini jack (4 contacts, TIP: L, RING1: R, RING2: GND, SLEEVE: MIC)
USBUSB Type-C
Power IconPower
dc power supply5 V USB Type-C
battery type2 AA batteries (alkaline, NiMH or lithium)
ac adapterDC 5 V/1 A
Battery Life IconBattery Life
alkaline batteries operation timeabout 4 hours
nimh batteries operation timeabout 4.5 hours
lithium batteries operation timeabout 9 hours
Weight and Dimensions IconWeight and Dimensions
external dimensions112 mm (W) × 155 mm (D) × 47 mm (H)
weight290 g

Summary

Notes and Disclaimers

Introduction

Main Features of the P4

Favorite Mic Support

Details on using high-quality mic preamps supporting dynamic and condenser mics.

Multitrack Recording Capability

Explains multitrack recording up to four channels with level adjustment and headphone monitoring.

Flexible Power Options

Describes powering the P4 via AC adapter, batteries, or USB mobile battery.

Remote Participation Features

Covers remote participation using smartphones/computers and Mix Minus function.

Jingles and Interview Playback

Details the SOUND PAD for real-time playback of audio files.

Live Streaming Functionality

Explains using the P4 as a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface for live streaming.

Optional Accessory Pack Information

Information about optional accessory packs for enhanced functionality.

Podcasting with the P4

Podcasting Preparation and Connections

Steps for preparing and confirming connections before podcasting.

Environmental Noise Countermeasures

Tips to reduce noise from wind, handling, and cables during recording.

Recording and Speaking Tips

Advice on recording pace, speaking clarity, and using SOUND PADs.

Publishing and Editing Your Podcast

Instructions for transferring recorded files and post-recording editing.

P4 Overview and Controls

Top Panel Controls

Detailed explanation of the top panel controls including input knobs, select switches, mute buttons, and display.

Input and Navigation Button Functions

Describes input knobs, select switches, mute buttons, and navigation buttons.

P4 Controls and Indicators

SOUND PAD and Headphone Controls

Explains the SOUND PAD knob for level adjustment and PHONES knobs for volume control.

Display and Status Indicators

Describes the display screen and the PLAY/REC indicators for status feedback.

Rear and Front Panel Connections

Details the INPUT and PHONES jacks on the back/front of the unit.

P4 Connectivity Ports

Side Panel Ports

Details the SD card slot, USB ports, BTA-2 connector, smartphone jack, and power switch.

SD Card and USB Port Usage

Information on SD card compatibility and USB ports for power and data transfer.

Connection Examples

Microphone and Headphone Setup

Diagram showing connections for microphones and headphones.

Smartphone and Wireless Adapter Setup

Illustrates connecting a smartphone directly or via a wireless adapter.

Computer/Tablet Audio Interface Setup

Shows how to connect to computers, smartphones, or tablets for audio interface and file transfer.

Practical Use Examples

On-Location Recording Example

Demonstrates using the P4 on location with batteries or a portable battery.

Live Streaming Setup Example

Shows how to connect the P4 to a computer for live audio streaming.

Glossary of Terms

Audio Interface and USB Terms

Defines audio interface, USB audio return, and USB Mix Minus.

Podcasting and Microphone Types

Defines podcasting and describes dynamic and condenser microphone types.

Signal Flow Diagram

Input and Processing Paths

Diagram showing signal path from input to processing (Lo Cut, Limiter).

Recording and Output Routing

Explains separate track recording, stereo mix, and output routing to headphones and devices.

Interface Navigation and Operation

Home Screen Overview

Describes the display elements: status, levels, time, and battery charge.

Basic Menu Screen Operations

Explains navigation within the menu system using buttons.

Getting Started with the P4

Inserting SD Cards

Step-by-step guide for inserting and removing an SD card into the unit.

SD Card Handling Precautions

Important notes regarding SD card compatibility, write-protection, and formatting.

Powering the P4 Unit

Installing AA Batteries

Instructions for installing AA batteries for portable operation.

Using AC Adapter or USB Power

Details using AC adapter or mobile battery via the power supply USB port, and USB bus power.

Power Management

Turning the Unit On

Procedure for turning the P4 on and initial screen display.

Turning the Unit Off

Procedure for turning the P4 off and saving settings.

Initial Setup Procedures

Setting Date and Time

Guide for setting the initial date and time upon first startup.

Connecting Input Devices

Connecting Microphones

Detailed instructions on connecting dynamic and condenser mics using XLR connectors.

Input Select Switch and Mute Button Usage

Explains using INPUT SELECT switches for phantom power and mute buttons.

Connecting Output Devices

Connecting Headphones

Instructions for connecting headphones to monitor audio output.

Headphone Volume Adjustment

Details using PHONES knobs to adjust headphone volumes.

Connecting Mobile Devices

Smartphone Connection for Calls

Guide for connecting smartphones for remote participation via the smartphone jack.

Wireless Connectivity

Connecting the BTA-2 Adapter

Steps for pairing and connecting the BTA-2 wireless adapter via Bluetooth.

USB Connectivity and Audio Interface

Connecting Computers and Tablets

Instructions for connecting the P4 to computers, smartphones, or tablets using the USB Type-C port.

Using the P4 as an Audio Interface

Explains using the P4 as an audio interface for input and output with other devices.

Recording Process

Adjusting Input Levels

Guide to setting input levels for optimal recording without distortion or low volume.

Input Level Metering and Balancing

How input levels are shown on the display and target ranges for balancing.

Microphone Settings

Configuring Mic Settings

Details how to configure Lo Cut and Limiter functions for each microphone input.

Lo Cut and Limiter Functionality

Explains the purpose of Lo Cut for noise reduction and Limiter for distortion prevention.

Recording Operations

Starting, Pausing, and Resuming Recording

Procedure for starting, pausing, and resuming recording, with REC indicator status.

Stopping the Recording Process

How to stop the recording process.

Playback Operations

Playing Back Recorded Files

How to play back recorded files from the SD card.

Playback Control Functions

Details functions like pause, search, skip, and stopping playback.

File Selection for Playback

Selecting Files to Play

Guide to navigating the file list and selecting files to play.

Playback Screen Interaction

Describes the playback screen and the PLAY indicator.

File Format Compatibility

Handling Unsupported Files

Explains messages for files that cannot be played or converted.

File Conversion Options

Details messages for files that can be converted by the P4.

File Management

Renaming Recorded Files

Procedure for renaming recorded audio files using the device interface.

File Deletion

Deleting Files from SD Card

Steps to delete unwanted files from the SD card.

Data Transfer to External Devices

Transferring Files Overview

Guide on how to transfer recorded files to computers, smartphones, or tablets.

SD Card File Organization

Folder and File Structure Explained

Details the root and track-specific folder structure and file naming conventions.

SOUND PAD Functionality

Assigning Audio Files to SOUND PADs

Instructions for assigning audio files to SOUND PAD buttons.

Supported Audio File Formats

Lists the supported file formats, sample rates, and bit rates for SOUND PADs.

SOUND PAD Playback

Playing Assigned SOUND PAD Files

How to trigger assigned audio files using the SOUND PAD buttons.

Adjusting SOUND PAD Volume Levels

Details on using the SOUND PAD knob to adjust playback levels.

SOUND PAD Playback Modes

Configuring Playback Methods

Configuring how each SOUND PAD button triggers its assigned audio file.

SOUND PAD Playback Mode Details

One Shot, Pause, Loop, and Hold Modes

Explains the different playback modes available for SOUND PAD buttons.

Adjusting SOUND PAD Levels

Setting Individual SOUND PAD Volumes

Procedure for adjusting the individual playback volume levels for each SOUND PAD.

Audio Interface Functionality

P4 as a 2-in/2-out Audio Interface

Overview of the P4's capabilities as a 2-in/2-out audio interface.

Connecting Devices for Audio Interface

Instructions for connecting the P4 to computers, smartphones, or tablets using the USB Type-C port.

USB Audio Return Configuration

Inputting USB Audio Return on Channel 4

Configuring channel 4 to receive audio from a connected computer/device.

USB Mix Minus Settings

Setting USB Mix Minus for Echo Prevention

Enabling USB Mix Minus to prevent feedback during calls.

System Settings Management

Modifying Date and Time Settings

Instructions for changing the date and time settings after initial setup.

Battery Settings

Setting Battery Type for Accuracy

Configuring the battery type for accurate charge indication.

Display Settings

Adjusting Display Contrast

Procedure for adjusting the screen contrast for better readability.

Power Saving Settings

Configuring Auto Power Off Function

Configuring the automatic power-off timer to keep the device on.

SD Card Maintenance

Testing SD Card Performance

Overview of testing SD cards for compatibility and performance.

Performing a Quick SD Card Test

Steps for performing a quick test on the SD card.

SD Card Quick Test Execution

Executing the Quick Test

Procedure to execute the quick SD card test and interpret results.

SD Card Full Test Procedure

Performing a Full SD Card Test

Steps for performing a comprehensive test on the SD card.

SD Card Full Test Execution

Executing the Full Test

Procedure to execute the full SD card test and interpret results.

SD Card Formatting

Formatting SD Cards for Optimal Performance

Instructions for formatting SD cards to maximize performance and ensure compatibility.

System Reset and Updates

Restoring Factory Default Settings

Procedure to reset the P4 to its original factory default settings.

Firmware Management

Updating Device Firmware

Information on how to update the P4's firmware via the ZOOM website.

Troubleshooting and Error Messages

Common Error Message Explanations

A comprehensive list of pop-up messages and their explanations and solutions.

Additional Error Scenarios

Error Messages for Recording and Files

Error messages related to recording, file availability, and SOUND PAD assignments.

General Troubleshooting Guide

Troubleshooting No Sound or Low Volume

Troubleshooting steps for issues with audio output and input levels.

Troubleshooting Recording Issues

Solutions for problems like recording not possible or slow stopping times.

Audio Interface Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Interface Connection

Steps for issues with selecting the P4 as an interface or connection failures.

Troubleshooting Playback and Recording Skips

Solutions for sound skips during playback or recording and cannot play/record issues.

Technical Specifications

Input/Output Channels and Connectors

Details on input/output channels, MIC, smartphone, and headphone connectors.

Recorder and Audio Interface Specifications

Information on recording format, media, audio interface, and frequency response.

Power Supply and Battery Operation

Covers power supply, battery operation times, and power consumption.

Physical Dimensions and Weight

Specifications for external dimensions and unit weight.

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