Topic: SBD > Zoom H4n sensitive to overload? Also, SBD + Mic recording?

[greatape]

I thought I had decided to buy a Zoom H4n.    Unfortunately, I've found a lot of complaints that the H4n overloads easily when recording from soundboards.  Has anybody here experienced this?  Are there tricks to prevent this problem?

Also some questions about 4 channel recording. . .
Would I be able to use the XLR inputs for soundboard recording while using the line input for my Church Audio cardioids/preamp?
I really want to be able to record sbd and audience mics to the same device so I don't have to sync them.
Are there other devices that would allow me to do this?

[mattmiller]

I can't speak to the Zoom recorder specifically, but many recorders are susceptible to being overloaded by a hot SBD signal if:  1) the sound guy isn't able/willing to attenuate the signal into an acceptable range for you, or 2) you don't have an inline attenuator between the SBD and your recorder.  I have a 20 dB attenuator cable that I use if I know the signal from the board isn't being attenuated by the sound guy.

[greatape]

An attenuator cable, eh?  Something like this?  http://www.fullcompass.com/product/299186.html
I should be able to tell by the levels display if I need to attenuate, won't I?  I've found it very difficult to use headphones in loud clubs.

[Will_S]

I really want to be able to record sbd and audience mics to the same device so I don't have to sync them.
Are there other devices that would allow me to do this?

Yes.  The Tascam DR-2D could be a good match for your Church Audio mics since it has dual 1/8" inputs:  http://taperssection.com/index.php?topic=131126.0;all
A little picky with batteries, but otherwise it seems like folks are pretty happy with it.

Attenuators in the bag are always a good idea, but I haven't heard of folks having problems nor have I myself.

Moving up in price, the Edirol R-44 and Tascam DR-680 offer 4 and 6 analog inputs, respectively.

[su6oxone]

Unfortunately, I've found a lot of complaints that the H4n overloads easily when recording from soundboards.  Has anybody here experienced this?  Are there tricks to prevent this problem?

Easiest thing to do as mentioned already is to get there early enough so that you can check levels during the opener to get an idea how hot the SBD feed is.  If it's too hot (and you should monitor with headphones because the levels may look okay, e.g. not peaking, but your consumer level XLR inputs can overload still but you'll hear the distortion with headphones) then kindly ask the soundguy to lower levels, or if he's not available or too busy, then use an attenuator or pad if your device has one.  Finally, you can upgrade to a recorder that can handle a hot signal better, but they tend to be more expensive. 

[greatape]

Thanks for all the tips so far.   I looked at some of the other options within my budget and the H4n is still standing out to me.
It sounds like I should be able to avoid hot sbd issues if I take proper steps.

Now, about the 1/8 mic input. . . . Will I be able to use my CA11>ST9000 into the H4n's 1/8 mic input just like I do with the 1/8 line input of my iRiver?  Maybe turn down the dial on the ST9000 to attenuate? 

[mattmiller]

An attenuator cable, eh?  Something like this?  http://www.fullcompass.com/product/299186.html

If you're using the 1/8" input, I use this:

http://microphonemadness.com/products/mmatatcab.htm