recording live gigs/jams! zoom H2 or H4?

[varunkapahi]

which one of the two is more suitable? is H4 really worth the extra money? the condenser mic's in H4 wont blow up when trying to record live sets which are really loud?
also, is there any other digital recorder one can consider for recording live songs??

[varunkapahi]

bump

[hgregs]

i can't speak to the h2, as i have an h4n. i bought it for the ability to record direct 2ch while also recording off the mics. i don't use those inputs ever. but i am able to lower recording volume to 9 (where i use it - down from like 50 or 60 max). i don't think the h2 goes that low (3 settings only). also, i find using a high-pass filter, and compression allow for good recordings of very loud rooms (i would make sure the h2 has it if you go that route). here's our last gig.

http://www.archive.org/details/sb200...9-11-06bb.flac

the one thing the h2 does that i would like to have - recording in front and in back. the h4n only records forward.

[Stumbo]

Try a search. There are a bunch of threads on either unit.
Here's one on the:Zoom H4/H2/(other field recorder) Tips?

[Jefenator]

I thought I wouldn't be able to live without the extra input capability on the H4n. Well I have yet to use those lines in on a live gig. (I did use 'em to record some sound clips that helped me sell a bass, though! )

If I could do it again, I think I'd enjoy the greater compactness of the H2. But I like the reception pattern & sound with the H4n and it still fits in my leather jacket pocket.

IME it's probably not a huge deal, either way. They're both pretty killer for recording your gigs & piping it in to your computer.

I turned up some other brands & models in a recent search. In case you really want to shop around.

[varunkapahi]

Originally Posted by Stumbo

Try a search. There are a bunch of threads on either unit.
Here's one on the:Zoom H4/H2/(other field recorder) Tips?

yep read that before posting the thread. thanks guys

[VroomVroom]

I've seen the H4 in action, and have enjoyed the results - I'd definitely recommend it over the H2, especially at the relatively small difference in price. Much better to have the features and not need them than it is to wish you had 'em.