Pros
Crystal clear audio quality
Plenty of clean gain available
48V phantom power & mute option for each mic input
Lightweight and portable
Battery or USB powered with long battery life
Can connect to phone and computer for audio transmission
Mix-minus function for call in conversations without feedback
Allows dual or triple recording
Easy to record or load pre-recorded sound to sound pads
Separate volume controls for mic and headphone outputs
User-friendly interface
Multiple mic inputs with dedicated headphone outputs
Affordable price point
Durable for careful use
Cons
16-bit/44.1 kHz max recording resolution
No XLR or line output
All plastic exterior may not be very durable
Main Product Advantages
10 Inputs and Outputs
Equipped with 4 XLR mic inputs, each with independent controls, and 4 headphone outputs. Also includes versatile input options for phone and USB connections for remote interviews.
10 Value for Money
Offers an incredible range of features at a highly competitive price point. Users feel they are getting more than their money's worth.
9 Audio Quality
The Zoom PodTrak P4 delivers crystal clear and professional audio quality, surprising for its compact size and price point. Users report excellent sound quality despite being limited to 16-bit/44.1kHz resolution.
9 User-Friendliness
Users appreciate the intuitive interface and ease of use, even without consulting the manual. The layout and functionality of the controls are logical and accessible.
9 Sound Pads
Four programmable sound pads with volume control. Users find them easy to use and helpful for adding effects like intro music or applause.
8 Portability
Extremely lightweight and battery-powered, making it ideal for on-the-go recording. While reviews indicate mixed experiences with battery life, it offers flexibility with USB and battery power options.
8 Versatility
Offers a range of functionalities including sound pads, mixing, and multiple simultaneous recording options. Can record on an SD card, computer, and phone simultaneously. However, lacks XLR or line outputs.
8 Compatibility
Works well with both computers and mobile devices, but its maximum resolution of 16-bit/44.1kHz may not meet the needs of all professionals.
6 Durability
Constructed with an all-plastic exterior, which some users feel doesn't inspire confidence in terms of durability. Needs gentle handling.
Introduction
The Zoom PodTrak P4 Portable Podcast Recorder is a compact, battery-powered device designed for podcasters who need a reliable and versatile recording solution. With its multiple inputs and outputs, it caters to a range of podcasting needs, from in-person discussions to remote interviews.
Features
The Zoom PodTrak P4 boasts four microphone inputs, allowing for multiple hosts or guests to be recorded simultaneously. It also includes four separate headphone outputs, ensuring each participant can monitor the recording in real time.
For remote interviews, the PodTrak P4 provides a phone input for call-in guests, making it incredibly easy to integrate remote contributors into your podcast without compromising on audio quality.
The device includes sound pads, which can be pre-loaded with jingles, effects, or advertisements, enabling seamless audio integration during recording sessions. Additionally, it supports multi-track recording, giving you the flexibility to edit and mix each audio track individually.
As a 2-in/2-out audio interface, the PodTrak P4 is also suitable for live streaming, providing a clear and professional-grade audio feed to your streaming platform of choice.
Battery Powered
One of the standout features of the PodTrak P4 is its portability. Being battery-powered, it allows you to record podcasts anywhere, without the need for a constant power source. This makes it an excellent choice for podcasters who are always on the move.
Ease of Use
Despite its extensive features, the PodTrak P4 is user-friendly and straightforward to operate. Its intuitive interface means you can focus on creating content rather than getting bogged down in technical details.
Conclusion
Overall, the Zoom PodTrak P4 Podcast Recorder is an excellent investment for podcasters needing a portable, versatile, and feature-rich recording solution. Whether you're conducting in-person interviews, handling remote guests, or live streaming, this device offers everything you'd need in a compact and user-friendly package.
