Inputs
The HN4 has two XLR inputs, and a 3.5mm stereo mini-jack input. Simply put, the XLR inputs are for larger microphones, such as the ones you’d use on a podcast, or shotgun mics, which are used to record dialogue in film, or sound effects. An example of a podcast microphone ,and an example of a shotgun microphone.
The 3.5mm stereo mini-jack input accepts TS, or TRS plugs. Using a TS plug will give you a mono sound, which is only one track, and which will be present on the left-hand side. If you connect a TRS plug to it, the Zoom H4n Pro will record a stereo signal.
Battery Life
According to Zoom, the H4n Pro should be able to run for about 6 hours. From my experience, and the experience of others, the H4n Pro eats through batteries, so you might want to pack spares if you’ll be out recording for more than few hours.
Bear in mind that your mileage may vary, as certain variables, such as whether you’re using Phantom Power, can affect how long the recorder can go for.
Display
When it comes to the displays, the H4n Pro has a 1.9 inch backlit LCD. This is of course fantastic if you’re recording in low light, as you won’t have to strain your eyes in order to see what’s going on with your levels.
If you’re mounting the recorder on top of a DSLR camera, the position of the screen isn’t great, as you can’t really see what’s happening, but if you’re looking down at the recorder, then it will be just fine.
