Why bother yourself with a digital audio recorder? Well, there are numerous advantages of using a decent digital audio recorder instead of relying on ancient cassettes or some multi-purpose gadgets. We don’t need any additional room-eating media to save the recordings, as there is a built-in internal memory, and we can simply insert a memory card. Most digital recorders today are very compact that we can simply put them in our pocket. The recordings are saved as digital, easy-to-transfer data. And, perhaps most importantly, digital recorders offer the higher output quality, as they are specifically engineered to do their purpose. Now, we will compare two popular products from the same budget-friendly class that are both seemingly very reliable, Tascam DR-40 and Zoom H4N. Which one that we should choose?
Both models have roughly the same overall size. Tascam DR-40 is just slightly lighter than Zoom H4N that the difference is largely insignificant. Both models also offer an equal level of connectivity, as they both provide 2 combo inputs, 1 output, and 1 USB 2.0 jack. You can use either of the two for recording up to four tracks simultaneously. The maximum audio resolution of Tascam DR-40, as well as Zoom H4N, is 24-bit/96-kHz for BWF, 320 kbps for MP3. Thus, performance-wise, we can assume that Tascam DR-40 and Zoom H4N are on the same level.
Let’s head on to the features available. Though both of them support 4CH mode to record four tracks at once, Tascam DR-40 boasts the dual recording ability in DUAL mode. Here, Tascam DR-40 will record a stereo signal with one extra copy, which has a lower signal level, as a back-up in case that the original tracks experience distortion. The feature is very handy if we are working with something that can’t be re-recorded, like in interviews. Meanwhile, Zoom H4N comes with the Cubase LE software for monitoring, editing, and playing recordings on a PC.
Tascam DR-40 Vs Zoom H4N
| Tascam DR-40 | Zoom H4N | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | Tascam | Zoom |
| Key features | - XLR / TRS balanced MIC/LINE inputs with phantom power and +4dbu line level input. - Switchable microphone position from X-Y to A-B - 4-track recording - record the built-in microphones and mic inputs at the same time - Dual recording captures a safety track to prevent distorted takes - Up to 96Hz/24-bit resolution | - Onboard X/Y Mics: High quality with easy to set selectable recording width (90 and 120 degrees) - 2 XLR/TRS Inputs: Connect mics, instruments, and line level devices - 24-bit/96 kHz recording - Expanded Capabilities: Built-in effects, audio interface mode and on-board speaker - Included accessories 2015: Plastic case, 2 AA batteries, Cubase LE and manual |
| Price | ||
| Customer Ratings* | 4.4 out of 5 stars | 4.5 out of 5 stars |
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Decision
Generally, Tascam DR-40 is a neat option if we use the device for field recording. Meanwhile, for music making, we will find that Zoom H4N as the much more practical.