Zoom PodTrak P4 Portable Multitrack Podcast Recorder

Designed specifically for the creation of high-quality multi-person podcasts in any location, the Zoom PodTrak P4 serves as an economical portable multitrack podcast recorder. It enables users to efficiently record up to four microphones, manage two echo-free remote call-ins concurrently, activate sound samples, and deliver individual headphone outputs for each guest, all simultaneously and with remarkable ease.

The PodTrak P4 is designed to facilitate the recording or streaming of high-quality audio for panel podcasts, featuring intuitive tactile controls, an extensive battery life, and robust audio processing capabilities. It accommodates both dynamic and condenser microphones, offers customizable sound pads, and allows for call-ins via smartphones or computers, along with independent headphone outputs. The PodTrak P4 is fully equipped to handle all the requirements of a podcast production station.

Additionally, it includes features such as built-in limiters and low-cut filters to enhance audio tracks, an integrated mix-minus function to eliminate echo and feedback for remote participants, and various powering options, establishing the PodTrak P4 as a comprehensive solution for podcasting.

Four High-Gain Mic Inputs

The PodTrak P4 is equipped with four microphone preamps that can accommodate both announcer-style dynamic microphones, like the Zoom ZDM-1 (sold separately), and the clarity of condenser microphones. Each preamp includes a balanced XLR input jack, selectable +48V phantom power, and offers up to 70 dB of gain, providing sufficient amplification to achieve optimal recording levels with various microphones, including the renowned Shure SM7B.

Headphone Mixes for You and Your Guests

Equipped with four 3.5mm stereo headphone outputs, the PodTrak P4 allows both you and your guests to enjoy independent headphone mixes, each featuring its own level control located above the respective headphone jack. Regardless of the situation—be it a private interview or a lively panel podcast—everyone will be able to hear the proceedings clearly.

Echo-Free Remote Call-Ins

Podcasters often engage with remote guests, prompting Zoom to incorporate two methods for facilitating call-ins. Users can connect their smartphones directly to the 3.5mm TRRS phone port or link a computer via USB to transmit audio from their preferred conferencing software. Additionally, both options can be utilized simultaneously to include two remote guests.

Regardless of whether TRRS, USB, or both are employed, the PodTrak P4 is designed to automatically eliminate echo and feedback through its integrated mix-minus feature, ensuring that remote guests are not distracted by the repetition of their own voices.

Supports BTA-2 for Wireless Remote Guests

If you prefer to go wire-free for call-ins, connect the Zoom BTA-2 Bluetooth receiver (available separately) to the PodTrak P4 and use your smartphone to wirelessly pipe in your call audio via Bluetooth.

Assignable Sound Pads with Preset Sounds

The PodTrack P4 features four sound pads positioned adjacent to the LCD screen, designed to enhance the quality of your podcast production by enabling the playback of music, jingles, advertisements, sound effects, or pre-recorded interviews with a simple button press. You can utilize the 11 preset sounds or upload your own samples for greater flexibility. Additionally, a dedicated knob facilitates straightforward adjustment of the output volume for the sound pads.

Instant Access to Gain and Mute for Each Input

Each microphone input on the PodTrak P4 is equipped with an individual gain control knob. There is no need for track selection or button activation to fine-tune your recording levels; simply adjust the dials, which are clearly marked from 0 to 10, whenever you need to modify the gain. Furthermore, each input features a mute button, allowing for swift muting or unmuting of guests without the necessity of navigating through menus.

Record up to 10 Tracks Simultaneously

With the PodTrak P4, you can simultaneously record up to 10 tracks to an SD card—four tracks from the input channels, four tracks from the sound pads, and two tracks from the overall stereo mix.

SD Card Recording and Audio Interface Functionality

The PodTrack P4 is engineered for exceptional portability, allowing users to record directly onto an SDHC card (with a maximum capacity of 32GB) or an SDXC card (supporting up to 512GB). Utilizing a 4GB card enables over three hours of recording time in 16-bit / 44.1 kHz across four channels, employing the BWF-compliant WAV format to ensure uncompressed audio quality and compatibility with industry standards. It is important to note that media cards must be purchased separately, and using higher capacity cards may result in longer startup times.

Additionally, the PodTrak P4 can function as a 2-in/2-out USB 2.0 audio interface (at 16-bit / 44.1 kHz) when connected to a Mac or Windows computer, or to iOS or Android mobile devices (an Apple Camera Connection Kit, sold separately, is necessary for iOS compatibility).

Powered via AA Batteries, AC Adapter, or USB

Power the PodTrak P4 via two AA batteries, plug it into a wall outlet with an AD-17 AC adapter (available separately), or use an external USB battery. Alkaline batteries can keep the P4 running for up to four hours of continuous recording. When using the P4 in the stereo USB audio interface mode, USB bus powering is also possible.

Signal Processing Adds Sonic Polish

The PodTrak P4's onboard effects allow you to add polish to your recordings without resorting to postproduction processing on a computer. Built-in limiters compensate for fluctuations in input level, while low-cut filters help eliminate wind noise, blowing, and other kinds of low-frequency rumble.