"The H4 allows you to lock the operation keys to prevent inadvertent operation during a recording.This function is called “key-hold”. To enable or disable the function, proceed as follows"
This is correct.
" Press and hold the center of the [MENU] key until the indication “Key Hold” appears on the display.The key-hold function is enabled and all control operations will be disregarded, except for the [POWER] switch, [MIC GAIN] switch, [INPUT 1 GAIN] switch, [INPUT 2 GAIN] switch, [PHONES LEVEL] and the center of the [MENU] key.
When a disabled control is operated, the indication shown below appears on the display for 2 seconds.
Eesh...so it looks like those switches down the right aren't locked. I hope they are...err...'embedded' well."
These buttons are locked,while you are recording, regardless of wheather "Key Hold" is engaged or not. The only way to change your recording format is to stop recording and select your format and bitrate.
"It sounds like gain is adjustable in 127 steps (100 is 'unity'?) - but its buried in a menu and looks like it is clunky to adjust. Seems ass-backwards to have H/M/L-Z adjustable at the flick of a switch but gain buried. *shrug*"
You are able to leave your gain adjustment up in the menu so you can adjust on the fly if needed. Both L/R grouped using onbaord mic, or independant using pug in mics. And you can adjust the input levels while the unit is locked.
"So it looks ilke this thing's not firmware upgradeable eh?"
It is firmware upgradeable, just don't know who will have the firmware upgrades..Samson or Zoom.
I hope this helps to answer some questions.
All in all it seems like it will be a very good recorder. I only had a small chance to play with my new one last night.