Zoom R4 MultiTrak Launched – Affordable, Compact 32-Bit Float Audio Recorder

Audio News

by Jeff LochOctober 19^th, 2023

Zoom recently launched a new compact 32-bit float audio recorder: the R4 MultiTrak. Primarily designed for musicians and content creators, this unit has two XLR/TS combo inputs, a built-in microphone, and you can use it as a 2-out USB audio interface via its USB-C port. So, let’s take a closer look at it!

When it comes to audio solutions for filmmakers and content creators, Zoom has built a solid reputation over the years with legendary products such as the H4n. More recently, the company launched the Zoom Mictrak M2, M3, and M4 32-bit float recorders that don’t even have a gain knob! Indeed, the main advantage of 32-bit float audio recorders is that it’s nearly impossible to clip your track, and the audio level can be adjusted in post infinitely without bringing back unwanted noise or distorting the sound.

Zoom is now back with another 32-bit float recorder primarily aimed at musicians, but that can also be very handy for filmmakers and content creators: the R4 MultiTrak.

Zoom R4 MultiTrak – features

The Zoom R4 MultiTrak is a reasonably compact audio recorder that measures 74 x 138 x 36mm/3.07 x 5.43 x 1.41in for a weight of 287g/10.12oz with batteries. This audio recorder is powered by four AA batteries (max. battery life: 14 hours), but it also supports bus power via the USB-C port on the right side of the unit. Also, an optional AC adapter (codename: Zoom AD-17) can be used for unlimited runtime.

The front of the unit features a 2-inch color display to see your settings and audio levels clearly. Behind the display, you’ll find four audio faders to adjust the level of each track.

On the right side of the R4 MultiTrak, you’ll find a power button, a microSDHC/microSDXC card slot, and one USB-C port to power the unit, but that can also be connected to a computer. When connected to a computer, the R4 MultiTrak acts as a 2-out USB audio interface.

At the bottom of the R4 MultiTrak, you’ll find two 2 XLR/TS combo inputs. The back of the unit features one 1/4″-20 mounting point. Lastly, the left side features one headphone jack and two volume buttons.

The R4 MultiTrak has multiple built-in effects mainly designed for musicians, including an EQ, reverb, compression, and some guitar effects.

At the bottom of the recorder, you’ll also find a built-in omnidirectional mono microphone that can be useful for recording scratch audio or an event’s sound, for example. Please note that you can only record the Input B and built-in microphone simultaneously, not Input A, Input B, and built-in microphone simultaneously.

Pricing and availability

The Zoom R4 MultiTrak will be available in Q4 2023 for $199.

For more information, please visit Zoom’s website here.

What do you think about this compact 32-bit float audio recorder? Did you already shoot using Zoom audio recorders? Did you make the switch to 32-bit float audio recording yet? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments below!