The Zoom PodTrak P4 is a portable audio recorder and mixer designed for podcasting, interviews, panel discussions, and other audio-production projects. It features four XLR microphone inputs, four headphone outputs, and four programmable sound pads for adding music, sound effects, or other audio clips during recording.
To record, microphones are connected using XLR cables, and headphones are plugged into the individual monitoring outputs. Users adjust microphone gain, headphone volume, and recording settings using the P4's physical controls and display. Audio is recorded directly to a microSD card, with each microphone recorded on a separate track for editing. The P4 can also function as a USB audio interface when connected to a computer.
Compatible Equipment & Software
The PodTrak P4 works with dynamic and compatible condenser microphones, XLR cables, headphones, and microSDHC or microSDXC memory cards. It provides switchable 48V phantom power for condenser microphones that require it. The recorder can connect to compatible Windows and Mac computers through USB for use with audio-recording software such as Audacity and Adobe Audition.
The P4 also supports remote interviews through a compatible smartphone connection or USB-connected computer.
Before You Begin
Turn down microphone and headphone levels before connecting equipment or beginning a recording. Keep liquids away from the recorder and avoid pulling on connected cables.
Make sure microphones, headphones, and cables are securely connected, and verify that the microSD card has sufficient storage before recording. Always perform a short test recording to check audio levels, microphone placement, and recording settings before beginning an important session.
New to podcasting? Start with one microphone and headphones to practice setting input gain, monitoring audio, and recording to a microSD card.
