Zoom H4n recording issues
 

Hi Guys,
if anyone can help i do wedding video and i have a issues with audio.
I have a Zoom H4n and zoom H1 (record ambient audio), basically i'm trying to connect the zoom h4n through a dj mixer (XLR to 3.5 mono or RCA) to get a clean audio. but I get noise and distort audio anyone can help me please will be much appreciated.

Thanks

Re: Zoom H4n recording issues
 

Sounds like you have far to hot a signal coming from the DJ mixer. What do you have the Levels on the H4n set to? I use this set up frequently but I always put a pad cable between the mixer and the H4n which reduces the signal by -25dB. Even then I have the Levels at around 30% for a typical mixer.

Pinknoise -25db Curly 3.5mm Cable w/Options | Pro Sound Equipment for Recording on Location & DSLR Audio Experts | Pinknoise Systems

Pete

Re: Zoom H4n recording issues
 

Use the H4n's 1/4" input, it is line level @ -10dB (nominal), so the DJ mixer's RCA outputs would be a good choice, You will need a RCA to 1/4" cable or adapters.
If the mixer has XLRs or 1/4" outputs, they are probably +4dB and could clip the Zoom's input regardless of the record volume setting. Using any line level output to the Zoom's XLR mic level only input would severely distort. A line to mic pad (attenuator) would be needed if you go that route.
The 1/8" TRS jack is unbalanced mic level.

Re: Zoom H4n recording issues
 

Also make sure the phantom power on the H4n is off. Phantom power also affects the 1/4-inch line input connectors that are part of the combo XLR/1/4-inch jacks.

I think inadvertently having phantom power on when using the 1/4-inch jacks may be the source of some long-standing complaints about noise and distortion even when feeding the proper level signal to the H4n line-level connectors.

It certainly was audible when I was setting up to record as I normally do with my H4n, by using the Tape Out of my MixPre. I had previously used phantom powered mics with the H4n, which was an unusual case, and I forgot to switch off the phantom when going back to normal operations.

Re: Zoom H4n recording issues
 

First of all i would like to thank you guys for your response,
I'm so new to the zoom never used it before.

I will tell you what cables I have.
HOSA STEREO 1/4" PHONE (F) - TWO RCA (M) (1-TIP AND 1-RING), 6 in.
SENNHEISER | OUTPUT TO XLR CL-100

I found Shure A15AS Selectable Mic Attenuation cable is this good? as i can't find any quality attenuate cables in Sydney
how should i connect it to get the best of it

what other cables should i have?
I connected the Sennheiser cable from zoom H4n to the mixer. and i setup the recording level to 50 %
so should I setup my Zoom H4n to limit 3 studio? also what low cut filter value should i use?

Just want to confirm what is the right cable and settings to use and i will give it a try...
Also I'm using wav 44/24 is it good?

Thanks heaps

Re: Zoom H4n recording issues
 

"STEREO 1/4" PHONE (F) - TWO RCA (M) (1-TIP AND 1-RING)"
Assuming (F) is 'female' that would NOT work. You need "TWO 1/4" TS (unbalanced, TIP AND RING) PHONE (M) - TWO RCA (M) (1-TIP AND 1-RING)"
Hosa Technology HPR-0010X2 Dual 1/4" TS Male to HPR-010X2

The Sennheiser CL-100 locking 3.5mm TRS plug to XLR is wired specifically for the EK100 portable receiver to an XLR input and in most cases will not work with other gear/configurations.. not to mention the 3.5mm plug's locking collar won't retract enough for full insertion into a standard jack.