Zoom R4 Quickstart Guide

The Zoom R4 MultiTrak is a portable multitrack recorder that is perfect for everyone! From podcasting to recording demos, the R4 can easily get the job done. In this guide, we will show you how to register, set up, and use it for the first time. Follow the instructions below to get started, and check out the Zoom R4 Operation Manual for more information!

1. Register the R4
2. First Time Setup
3. Format the SD Card
4. Setup and Connections
5. How to Record Audio

Register the R4

You’ll want to register the R4 with Zoom when you first take the device out of the box. To register the R4, you’ll need the serial number of the recorder, which is located on the back of the unit.

1. Go to the Zoom product registration page.
2. Fill out the required information, including the serial number, which is located on the back of your R4. Click Submit.

Click the image to register your Zoom R4.

First Time Setup

NOTE: Before powering on the R4, make sure the SD card is inserted.

When you turn the Zoom R4 on for the first time, there are a few things you must do. Specifically, these are setting the date and time and choosing the battery type. Selecting the correct battery type ensures the battery life displays correctly.

1. Turn the device on. Use the < (2) and > (3) buttons to select the year, month, day, and time. Once you’ve finished, press the Checkmark (4) button.
2. Use the Up (2) and Down (3) arrows to select the battery type you are using, then press the Checkmark (4) button.
   • If you’re not sure what type of battery you have, check the battery, as it will often be labeled (al/alkaline, NiMH, or lithium).
   • Make sure you use brand-name batteries! Generic batteries often provide less charge, and the R4’s performance may be affected.

Format the microSD Card

IMPORTANT! Formatting SD cards will remove any data currently stored on them. Transfer any important files from the SD card to your computer before formatting!

For the Zoom R4 to store your recordings correctly, you must format the microSD card. While you can format the SD card on your computer, formatting it directly on the R4 will ensure everything works immediately.

1. Press and hold the STOP button on the Home Screen. Press SETTINGS (4).
2. Use the Up (2) and Down (3) arrows to highlight SD card. Once it’s highlighted, press ENTER (4).
3. Use the Up (2) and Down (3) arrows to highlight Format, then press ENTER (4).
4. Highlight Execute. Use the Checkmark (4) to confirm.
5. Alternatively, you can access the SD Card Format menu by holding down the RECORD button while turning the R4 on.

Testing SD Card Performance

Testing your microSD card ensures that your R4’s performance remains consistent. It’s always good to run the test on occasion, not just when you notice lag or receive errors. This is especially true if you’re nearing the capacity of the microSD card.

There are two types of tests available: quick and full. The quick test does a swift check of the files. Think of it as just scanning the surface. Full tests take much longer, but they check every aspect of the microSD card to ensure everything works correctly.

1. Press and hold the STOP button, then press SETTING (4).
2. Use the UP (2) and DOWN (3) buttons to select SD card, then choose Performance Test.
3. Select the test you wish to run, press ENTER (4), and press the Checkmark (4).
4. Once the test is complete, the results will be shown.

Musician’s Guide To Using SD Cards

Click here to learn more about using SD cards!

Setup and Connections

Once you format the microSD card, it’s time to get set up and connected. The process is straightforward: you just need to use an XLR or 1/4-inch cable to connect your instrument or microphone to your R4. Here are some setup and connection tips:

• By default, Channel 1 is linked to Input A, Channel 2 is linked to Input B, and Channels 3–4 are disabled. You can change the routing by pressing its associated button.
• Press the INPUT A and INPUT B buttons to cycle through the connections (disabled, normal level, and phantom power). 
• Enable phantom power when using a condenser microphone. 
  • Ensure that phantom power is enabled after connecting the microphone and turn it off before disconnecting it. If you don’t, you risk potential damage to not only the microphone, but to the R4, as well!

• You can use microSDHC cards from 4GB to 32GB or microSDXC cards from 64GB to 1TB with your Zoom R4.
• If you’re a Windows PC user and want to connect the device to your computer, you need to download the driver before connecting. You can download the driver from the R4 MultiTrak support page.
• If you want to use the built-in mic, set the switch from INPUT A to MIC.

How to Record Audio

Now that everything is set up and connected, it’s time to start recording!

1. Press and hold the STOP button and press NEW PRJ (1) to create a new project.
2. Press the INPUT button, then select the tracks and input sources you wish to record.
   • Each input can only be assigned to a single track.
   • Play at the performance level and adjust the input gain with the faders. Once it starts clipping, bring down the fader just a little so it’s not clipping anymore. This will give you an optimal recording level.
3. Once you’re ready, press the RECORD button.
   • If you want a count-in (pre-count) before recording, press the RHYTHM button, use the DOWN (3) button to highlight Pre Count, press the CHECK (4) button to enable it, and press the CHECK (4) button again to apply.
   • Press RECORD to begin recording.
   • During playback, you can partially rerecord (punch in) tracks by pressing the RECORD button. This allows you to rerecord over a specific part that didn’t sound right.

Additional Zoom R4 MultiTrak Resources

Zoom R4 MultiTrak Quick Guides

• Zoom R4 MultiTrak Operation Manual
• Zoom R4 Quick Tour

Knowledge Base