Zoom H4 for $100

[Vascilli]

Are there any significant differences that would make the $200+ premium for a H4n worth it, compared to a $100 H4? (Used) My primary use for now will be recording live music. (I know a few musicians)

[Luis Caffesse]

If you want to use it to sync to video then I wouldn't suggest it - some members have reported audio drift issues with the H4, while the H4n doesn't seem to have those same issues.

Granted - you can always retime your audio to sync up - but personally if I planned on using it for video I'd rather spend $200 not to have to do that everytime.

There are other differences between the two - here's a thread about it:
http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?t=164883

[Digihead]

I have an H4 and have not experienced drift with clips of 5:00 duration with my 7D or HV20. YMMV. I I hear the interface is improved, that alone might be worth the premium.

[Luis Caffesse]

Interesting.
Well then - I wouldn't take my word on that, seeing as I've only used the H4n first hand.

[Vascilli]

I don't have any video equipment anyhow. (Yet) I wouldn't do shots any longer than a few minutes (If that) and I really don't want to pay $400 for a recorder just yet. Being in high school, my income is minimal. I'll just get this H4 and see what happens, worst case I can probably sell it at cost or maybe a small profit.

[jonE5]

I just got my H4n, (i shoot a nikon D90), and so far on the couple of tests ive ran, as long as you use a slate, no issues with syncing at all.

Keep in mind though, if your making a short or a feature, most shots are not going to be super long anyway.

If your doing documentary style with long interviews you may need to worry about it more.

I have read though, that the H4n has much better menus etc...

Worth $200 more? Not sure, id be tempted if i could get hte H4 for only $100

you can always sell it and upgrade later.