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The H4n seemed a great addition to my setup, helping me record sounds that I would otherwise have trouble finding online or in libraries. I was just starting to work as a freelance sound designer and I needed a compact solution for recording sound effects and voice both in a studio and in the field. Some 5 years ago I purchased my first handheld recorder, a Zoom H4n. Having had several makes and models over the years, I got familiar with the advantages and issues of the most popular ones. It doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or if you’re a seasoned professional, you should never get out of the house without your trusty handheld. While it’s by no means exhaustive, it should provide a starting point and invite you to do more research of your own.Ī handheld recorder is an absolute necessity for an audio professional. It is based on real-world experience with a handful of makes and models and on the opinions of audio professionals I’ve had the pleasure of discussing the matter with.
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This is my completely subjective overview on choosing a handheld recorder for sound effects/sound design work. Read on for his opinion on what to look (and listen) for, the features and accessories that matter – and his personal favorite recorder right now: I discovered that sound designer and recordist George Vlad had spent quite a bit of time researching what’s available, and he’s now written this special guide to help you pick the handheld recorder that’s right for you. Aircraft – Jet/Propeller Plane Sound EffectsĪ good handheld recorder is an essential addition to any audio professional’s toolkit – but when it comes to finding the right one, it’s a bit of a jungle out there.
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