Zoom H4n and lavalier

G

Gladiator

Well-known member
Can a lavalier be used with the Zoom H4n? The manual doesn't directly address the issue, and I had no luck what so ever with search function. Thanks!
 
I'm interested in this too... the AT803 seems like a good mike to use with the Zoom, and maybe a Rode M3 to go with it?
 
Zoom H4N mics

Zoom H4N mics

Gladiator,

I use the Zoom H4N with my Canon 5D and I've used quite a few different mics of all kinds with it - lavaliers, shotguns, ribbon mics, wireless mics, - pretty much any pro mic with XLR or 1/4" plugs will work. I've noticed that older mics like a Sennheiser ME80 don't have quite as high of an input level as I would like so you have to boost the recording level which adds a little noise, but not too bad. Newer shotguns don't seem to have that problem.

Bob
 
Ok... I'm totally new to working with sound on this sort of level, so I've never owned anymore more sophisticated than an MKE300 shotgun mike... can you recommend me an XLR shotgun mike for the H4V and explain how the power works?
 
I use the Rode NTG-1 shot gun - love it.

Better mics will need Phantom power, which usually makes the mics more sensitive since they have extra power to pick up audio. (your h4n can output Phantom Power +48)

Once you choose a mic, get to testing! See what distorts what doesn't. There is limiters and gain control on the zoom's - get familiar with that thing... with whats it called... The Manual!

Also if you are familiar with 1 shot gun mic, they all kind of similar. All mics have specified polar patterns (pickup range and area) and power specs. After that they all are basically the same, just the quality of parts used varies drastically.
 
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Bob88 said:
Gladiator,

I use the Zoom H4N with my Canon 5D and I've used quite a few different mics of all kinds with it - lavaliers, shotguns, ribbon mics, wireless mics, - pretty much any pro mic with XLR or 1/4" plugs will work. I've noticed that older mics like a Sennheiser ME80 don't have quite as high of an input level as I would like so you have to boost the recording level which adds a little noise, but not too bad. Newer shotguns don't seem to have that problem.

Bob
Click to expand...

Thank you very much Bob!
 
Lectrosonics are really great lavs, but in a pinch and for the price the Sennheisers are good choices too. I've had my lectros for about 8 years and they've been dropping and thrown around and they keep on working as they are solid built little tanks... ya cant' say that for many of the others.. and the sad fact is that a client or talent will eventually drop your transmitter and viola..... you'll be either crying or throwing punches...
 
and the sad fact is that a client or talent will eventually drop your transmitter and viola..... you'll be either crying or throwing punches...
Click to expand...

I think he only wants the mic, not the wireless receiver/sender combo.
 
You might check out the Zoom H2 instead of the H4n for what you're doing. I think the 4Hn might be overkill, and the H2 would be less expensive.

For the lav, I use Giant Squids. They are very solid and built to withstand a lot. I highly recommend both.

I have four of each.
 
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