Which field recorder for loud jam sessions?

[ReeV0]

Hi all,

Which would be better for recording loud live band practices through the built-in mics?

I've already got a H4n (non-pro) and it's not very good. It's either distorted, or if I have the limiter turned on, pretty quiet...

I was thinking about maybe upgrading to the H4n Pro, or the Tascam DR-40X. Has anyone had any experience with these?

Cheers

[Dad3353]

Our 2nd guitar/keys has just bought a Zoom H1/MB. It has several sensitivity settings, and the first sessions we did with it, the results were very low. This didn't affect the quality of the sound at all; there's no need these days to record at 0db. Once normalised, our sessions sounded fine; certainly no distortion from the Zoom. Inexpensive and easy to use; worth a look..?

[jrixn1]

You're setting the recording level manually, yes, not using an automatic setting?

[EBS_freak]

1 hour ago, jrixn1 said:

You're setting the recording level manually, yes, not using an automatic setting?

Indeed - on the side, there should be a rec level. Press the -ve button and monitor the meters whilst you are playing and keep turning it down til it doesn't clip.

[TwoTimesBass]

I've got an H5 which isn't a lot more money (but is an older model) which has the interchangeable mics with an added physical gain control. Spec's reckon it's good for 140dB SPL and i've certainly not had a problem recording loud gigs.

[ReeV0]

4 hours ago, jrixn1 said:

You're setting the recording level manually, yes, not using an automatic setting?

Yes, it's usually set on 0.5 or 1

[jrixn1]

Ah ok, so pretty much at the minimum level possible.  I haven't used H4n Pro so can't comment on its suitability. Hope you figure out the best solution!