MusicRadar Verdict
Zoom’s R4 MultiTrak offers a focused feature set aimed primarily at musicians and is an ideal tool for capturing ideas on the move which you can then develop further in your DAW.
Pros
- +
2 combo inputs for both mic and instrument sources.
- +
32-bit float audio recording.
- +
Very compact.
- +
Well-implemented LCD screen and menu system.
- +
2in/2out USB interface option.
Cons
- -
Recorder and USB interface modes are mutually exclusive.
- -
No choice of sample rates.
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What is it?
Compact mobile record options have vastly improved over recent years, and there are some pretty solid options that will deliver excellent quality without breaking the bank. If you’re looking for something portable or even pocket-sized, Zoom has a wide choice of devices, including the excellent Handy Recorder range. However, for multitrack recording it’s Zoom’s LiveTrak and MultiTrak devices you want to check out.
The R4 MultiTrak we have for review is the smallest device in the MultiTrak range and is a two-input, four-track recorder that can also be used as a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface with USB audio-compliant devices (PC, Mac, iOS, Android). Note, the interface option cannot be used at the same time as the recorder. The onboard system records to micro SD cards (SDHC 4 to 32GB or SDXC 64GB to 1TB), offering 48kHz at 32-bit float.
It has two combination phantom-powered XLR/TS inputs designed for mic and high impedance instrument sources. It also has an onboard omni condenser mic, which can be routed to Input A. Further features include input and auxiliary effects, input tuner and a rhythm track with various clicks and beats.
R4 includes an excellent multifunction colour LCD screen that’s used to meter recordings, set inputs, add effects, edit the rhythm/click track as well as access settings. Below this, you’ve also got four hardware sliders that control the balance of the four recorded tracks. At the bottom of the panel are the transport controls alongside dedicated buttons for Undo and track Bounce.
Finally, power comes from four AA batteries or the USB-C port (an external PSU is not included). For battery use, maximum operation time depends on the type of batteries used (alkaline, NiMH or Lithium).
Performance
R4 MultiTrak uses a project system to manage audio recordings and although it will automatically create a new project as soon as you start recording, you can use the project system to better manage your audio. Further project features include combining audio from different projects and exporting the project stereo mix as mp3 or WAV.
To get started recording all you need to do is use the Input button and Track buttons to select your inputs. The LCD display shows input levels and also indicates track status – track record (red), track playback (green) or empty track (no colour). To disarm a track simply deselect the input. You’ll also find input A includes two in-line recordable effects modules. These feature a number of guitar amp emulations as well as chorus, delay, wah and so on.
The R4’s dual A/D converter circuit coupled with 32-bit float audio means you don’t have to set input gain levels, so you can get recording quickly. Meanwhile monitor and playback levels are set with the dedicated sliders. Each Track button opens playback processing including 3-band EQ, panning and two auxiliary send effects – Echo and Reverb.
To assist with recording there’s an optional accompanying rhythm track that includes basic clicks as well as a multitude of drum beats. Alas this isn’t added to the project audio, however we found that if we exported the project with all faders turned down we could get the isolated rhythm track. Further onboard options include stereo mix Bounce, and this can then be imported to two tracks.
Verdict
Overall, R4 MultiTrak is a capable device and although it does have some limitations, if you’re a musician looking for a pocket-sized recorder for jamming ideas or capturing live recordings, it’s an attractive option.
Hands-on demos
ZoomSoundLab
Alternatives
Specifications
Key features | Inputs: 2 XLR/TS combo sockets Input Impedance: XLR 2.3kOhms, instrument 1MOhm Phantom Power: 48V individually switchable Built in mic: omnidirectional Outputs: headphone 3.5mm stereo jack Recording: 48kHz, 32-bit float, 2 track simultaneous recording, 4 track playback Formats: WAV Recording media: micro SDHC (4 to 32GB), micro SDXC (64GB to 1TB) Display: 2” full colour (240 x 320) USB: type-C, 2-in/2-out USB audio 48kHz/24-bit or 32-bit float, Power: 4xAA batteries, USB bus power or external USB PSU (not included) Battery duration continuous operation (hours): alkaline (7), NiMH (6), lithium (14) Size: 138(l) x 74(w) x 36(d) mm Weight: 287g including batteries |
Contact |
Pricing
- Full price: €239
The R4 MultiTrak was originally announced in the spring of 2024 and prices have been robust in that time.
At the time of writing, retailers such as Thomann are probably the cheapest around at €190/£159, but our price checker, below will have all the latest deals for you.
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