The hissy sound is there on RCP II as well, but what I have found is that the hissy sound comes from the audio in channels where there is no microphone or audio device attached. Mute those free audio in channels, and the hiss is gone.
Love it, bought it, can't live without it. The travel factor is a key win over the Rodecaster Pro, Tascam Mixcast, or the Zoom Podtrak P-8. It has replaced two of my generic xlr mixers (USB and analog). Plus, the cost savings and strong pre-amps pushed it over the top! (No Cloudlifter needed!) Got mine from open-box retailer @$150. Thank you for showing it some respect with the review.
Firmware 1.4 released on march 2023. I absolutely love the p4 except for the sound pad, but I use my phone for that purpose, as I also would with the RPC. Don’t be afraid people, go get it. I’ve had no issues in two years.
@@weswilliams956 I just use my notes to keep the audios I need during recording (like clapping, interview, video...) and connect it through port 3. Intro and outro I would do the same as you.
Stepped up to this from an H4N with xlr splitters for 3 mics. This is a huge improvement because of the individual channels and main multitrack. I love it. Last week we even used the USB connection to a computer to run the mics in for a zoom podcast and it recorded perfectly. I have batteries in it but only as a backup to the 5v plug which is awesome.
I've been using the P4 for the last month and I don't regret it at all! For half the price of the Rodecaster Pro I think it's a great device that's very user friendly.
I have the amazing P4 podtrak... and I use a clip adapter with connector hole of 1/4 size. this solved my problem and I can locked it in a tripod. This adapter it sale for $2.65.
Hey Tom. Love the gain and sound from my P4, but I’m paying again for a Rodecastor Pro and a cloud lifter (I use an SM7B). FYI, the P4 sound pads get stuck a lot; my students have had a few good giggles. Wish Rode made a smaller unit for people who just have one mic and a USB media input; my desk is getting full.
You’re so right about their build quality. The audio coming out of my H4n Pro sounds amazing, even when I’m monitoring the audio it sounds WAY better than the coming out of my RødeCaster pro headphones preamps
Have the P4 then got the Rodecaster Pro. P4 is the baby brother to RCP. Agree with P4 build quality points, firmware limitations and extra cost to get wireless feature. I would suggest, as you do, get the RCP and if you need portability then just carry the RCP and get the added benefit of a bicep workout. Great comparison review.
I’ve had this a couple of times and darn, it’s so close to the perfect device if not for the 16/44 nonsense. It’s a common problem in this area for people like myself, a podcaster that does most of it remotely and doesn’t need the full functionality of the RCP2. I had it but man, it’s just overkill when I do everything in post and only plug in one mic. I don’t want that taking up half the desk when it’s just me going through Riverside. P4 is sooo close but isn’t perfect for video or best quality recording. H8, which I’m trying next, doesn’t have a mute option for the mic. It’s such an underrated but necessary feature. If someone could make a until with 24/48, four or more physical pads, 1-2 inputs, mute capability, I’d do backflips. A combo of the P4, H8, Vocaster, rolled into one. Why does everyone get so close but just give up feet from the finish line, Tom. Make it make sense!
Hey Tom! Thanks for this interesting review! Of course, a lot of your viewers, including me, own Rodecasters on your recommendation, so more of a curiosity stream for us... 😊 But hey, confirmation bias can be fun, and I do love my Rode. Use it every day. Till the next one! 👍🏾
OMG, I was desperately waiting for you to compare these two. I was just going to go buy a p4 today and hope for the best. I fully trust your comparisons and have been waiting on this one for sure. I really wished we could just get a rode caster pro mini.....
It's a great little device, and if you're not going to be super rough with it, it'll last a long time. I love the sound quality from it, especially for the price! But yeah, the RCP is tough to beat overall.
I’ve been looking at the Podtrak for a travel solution whilst my Rodecaster Pro stays in the studio. What I’d REALLY love is for Rode to make a portable equivalent!
Lacking 48 kHz is a bummer, but my understanding is that in terms of sync with video, 25/50 fps and 30/60 fps are fine since they are division integers of 44.1 kHz. It’s 24 and 120 fps that suffer the most. Obviously, 24-bit and 48 kHz will produce higher quality, but it probably isn’t audible to most listeners.
@@tombuck Just curious, besides the possible sync issues with 24 and 120 fps, what other video issues do you have with 44.1 kHz? I understand that 48 kHz is the video standard for audio, and because of that most video-centric workflows only record at that sample rate, but are there other issues with 44.1 which you are aware?
Ive owned this thing 3 times now......every time i think im done with it...im not. Wish it was 24 bit, but besides that...its an amazing device at what is now $149. Really glad I have fell down the Buck rabbit hole lately....keep it up!
It does work as an input/output for Audacity or other DAWs. But it only works as a single stereo input. All 4 inputs are mixed down to one stereo track in your DAW.
Good video Tom! I have the Zoom Podtrak P8 (and I love it!) I brought the P4 as my “on the go studio” so I can leave my big boy at home lol. The P4 makes for a good starter or back up device just in case you need it.
Love my P4! Great pre amps up to about 6. After that, they introduce some slight hiss. Also very easy to use. I love 24 bit 48Khz on my Scarlet 2i2 3G, and the quality of voice reproduction is quite a bit better than the P4.
I picked up 2 of the P4 because 1) size 2) works as digital interface for desktop purposes. I have the rodecaster to - just big and not a single USB-C cable
I love both of them since I have a Caster pro and my wife loves her Zoon podtrack P4 and it's compact and reasonably enough for her. keep up the good job Tom, big thumbs up
Mohsen, do you believe you give up any audio quality if using just the XLR inputs on Podtrak4 vs Rodecaster Pro? I’m traveling for a conference and not opposed to traveling w my Caster pro but do like the compact size of P4
@@JackPiper33 I use the P4 when I'm traveling instead of carrying the big sensible Rodecaster pro 1, The quality I lose is not noticeable at all I believe.
I have both of them. Rodecaster is better ofcourse in every aspect, except for the SD Card and Multitrack File. But I like P4 for the portability, I only need 1 backpack now to make podcast outside my studio for the P4, 4 Mic, 4 headphones, 1 camera and tripod. For the case, I am using hardcase bonus from Behringer microphones + plus some pads, it fit perfectly
It came down this or the bigger model or the rodecaster pro. Went with the rode. Been about a year still happy with it. As far as portability there’s an optional battery pack that can power the rodecaster pro I can take it to remote locations or interviews, etc. a little bulky for that but works seamlessly with my MBP
I had just got the Rodecaster Pro for myself for my Birthday to start podcasting and live videos, in the 20 days I have had it, it's well worth the price. Oh, I do agree on the noise in the earphones don't like it.
I have owned this for a couple of years and overall it's a great value. Only issue is that the gain randomly goes up when you plug in the DC Plugin. If you use batteries you'll be fine
I agree! Very well explained and reviewed. It is still a good buy for some people, and more options is always welkome. In that back pack, it fits recorder and mics.. I haven't seen its box , but for sure it can be used for protection for traveling.. For some people i know, it is perfect. ..but yes..some simple things they could have added..specialy the screw hole..and maybe rechargeable battery..but ok. All the best to all in this channel!
Thanks for this video. I did exactly what you said not to do - went for the P4, cause I didn't want to spend too much. I ended up buying the Rodecaster and need to sell my P4 now. Nonetheless, it's a great small podcasting machine :)
Hi Tom, I've just discovered your channel through this video, this is a well put together video sharing every bit of information needed, it's clear you know the subject and products very well!👌 I also love that you embrace puns throughout your video, I know a lot of people find wordplay cringey but I think it's great and something not seen enough on RU-vid!👏 Thanks for a great video, you've earned yourself a subscriber!
Thank you Simon! I really appreciate the kind words of support! It means a lot to know that the channel is a good resource and that the bad jokes didn't immediately drive you away 😁
Same experience H4nPro is really slow to operate, but audio qulity is good. Rodecaster is excellent, but need separate power supply to use it remote with battery.
Evo 4 seems like a great option for those in this budget range. Most only need two inputs to get started and it has the higher sample rate. Biggest con is it is not mobile and does not have individual headphone inputs and adjustments. Really wish zoom would just make this exact product, but with the better sample rate.
It’s an amazing device for the money. If it was a little more solid/better build quality, we probably would have to pay closer to $300, so not as much value. Great review.
One note from a Zoom L-8 user, if you're planning to use the sound pads, these can be really picky about the bitrate of the files they'll recognize, so give yourself some time to export a few times
I really enjoy your content. I just got a Podtrack P4 this month and love it. I run an online radio station, and the Podtrack p4 has allowed me to simplify things a lot and downsize. Before I got that, I was using an Allen & Heath XB-14-2 broadcast board. Back when station automation and broadcasts were handled exclusively in studio, the board was fantastic, but now that I have moved most of that to the cloud, and only do a few live shows in studio, that board is over kill, and the Podtrack P4 is nice since it takes up so little space. The only thing I miss is being able to EQ my mic and apply some bass boost. Any affordable and small devices that I could grab that would let me do this? Preferrably something smaller than the DBX286s. I don't need EQ for all channels as I run solo most of the time, but at least for my mic, it would be really nice. Would I love the Rodecaster? Probably. Can I afford it on a social security budget? Definitely not! Plus, I do have some concerns about the rodecaster. As someone who is totally blind, I don't know how easy it would be to accidentally activate/deactivate/mess something up on the touch screen while feeling for a fader or other button. Secondly, I don't know how well the rode software works with screen readers. So, with those concerns, as well as my budget, the Podtrack p4 was the safer bet.
I want to buy the Rodecaster Pro but because it has been out for a while I am always worried that the minute I buy it Rode will announce a new upgraded version! But then again I really don't need but want!
I totally get that. It’s been 3 years and I still think it’s the best out there. I’m sure an updated version will be better, but who knows when/if that’ll happen. Kinda like washing your car only for it to rain the next day 😁
Id rather pay 150-200 for great sound quality/functions and cheap build...thats why its so cheap and so awesome with functions...a trade off I will take every time.
I bought one for a trip to Kenya because the size was very important. But the trip got canceled because of Covid and I sent it back. you spot on about good components but the bad build quality and don't hold your breath on a firmware update. I would say it is not a fair comparison. P8 yes but the P4 is totally for mobile. Which I know you have done. I had the hard case for my Rodecaster and have the 'dongle' to work off a Power Brick
I have one. I’m not much into audio things, so it just works and that’s enough for me. I used to work a lot with rodecaster but again my use scenario is so simple that I didn’t see any difference 🤷🏻♂️ Btw, I disagree that this device is poorly built. It’s ok. If you won’t smash it all around, it will last. It’s not a tactical gear, it’s a small audio recorder 😁 Extra usb is for iPads or iPhones. These devices can’t change with usb. You can attach your smartphone with trrs cable, Bluetooth is optional.
It's a really nifty device for sure. Build quality definitely depends on use case. What I can say is that after teaching high school for a decade, Zoom products would consistently start falling apart even when treated well. It was almost like clockwork that after a certain amount of hours, problems would arise (but to be fair, I don't think this would happen with something that lives on a desk most of the time). Rode gear on the other hand never let me or my students down, so that's partially where my bias comes from.
The only reason why I ended up getting a Rodecaster Pro is because I was looking to find alternatives to the GoXLR which is targeted at the Windows Gamer demographic, but for that very reason are more likely to pop up on the used market, so you might be able to pick one up at a good price.
Great video Tom! It definitely sounds wayyy better than it looks :) I think I'd genuinely consider this though if i didn't have a rodecaster just because of the price and how easy it is to carry around
The Zoom Podtrak P4 is a great device if you want a straightforward podcasting device. There are deck covers you can get, which protects the top controls. I’ve used these with students and they can take a beating, probably not a high drop… enjoy!
I’m excited to use my P4 I just bought I have the Scarlett solo studio interface that we were running a line in from a Pyle 6 channel board. It worked but the Pyle definitely delivered a less clean signal than going through the Scarlett. But for a 4 mic input Scarlett that’s out of our budget range for now. Someday maybe. Love audio stuff.
@@tombuck I really think that's some of the best advice given. It's similar to what I tell people when they ask me for recommendations but have something they really want. Get the item you really want. It makes you happier, which is the best reason!
Rode needs to make a smaller rodecaster pro. I'm a carry-on only traveler, and tried traveling with my rodecaster pro, once. Sold it when I got back home.
Talking about the sounds on you as card. I never be able to do it on my H8 . If you have the opportunity to explain that I will really appreciate. Like to learn all of about audio with your videos.
It only records at 16bit... what a letdown for a device with this much power when the F2 can even do 32 bit float and is the size of an airpods pro case.
I have a RCP and I'm glad I saved up and sprang for that, rather than spending less on something with more compromises. However, after watching your deep dive, I think that I might eventually also pick up the PodTrack P4 for a specific use case of recording on the go. It seems like it would be a great tool when there isn't a chance or the space for a full sit down recording. Thanks for sharing your take on this!
Thank you Tm for this interesting video but you just missed one thing which is for the SoundPad and which format or codec do we need for it, other than that you're perfect as always, GOD bless you bro.
I’ve had mine over a year. Works fine, but if I knew it was only 44.1 kHz I would NOT have bought it. My workflow always includes video, so it’s a no go for me. You just assume everything these days does 48 kHz (I’ve bought many h1’s over the years) so they really need to put a big warning or something in the product info. You have to dig to find it.
Awesome review, Tom. I’ve been interested but Zoom’s build quality has scared me off. Also don’t like that you need usb power and the usb cable to use as an interface. I really like the procaster but it’s too much for my needs. Wish they’d make a smaller version with maybe fewer tracks/inputs. I’ve heard a lot of good things about that behringer flow 8 since they bought Midas and no use those preamps. I’ll let you k ow if I pull the trigger.
I haven't heard of that one, but I'd be interested to know what you think if you get it! Do you know Luis "MrCameraJunkie"? He has a P4 and I think he's setting it up for live streaming. He streams on Saturdays, so you and I can both see how it handles things 👍
@@tombuck Yea I’m subbed and I regret him saying he was getting one. Here’s joe I found out about the flow 8 in the second half. They were out of stock for months but Sweetwater let me know they were back. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-pufdrEpW_ws.html
the Rodecaster Pro paired with Rode DC USB1 cable connected to a power bank makes for a "portable setup" and is also USB-C , i'm using my samsung usb c to c cable to connect to my macbook but yes i agree, the P4 is smaller and cheaper. I really want it as it is more "minimalistic" than RCP.
That' why I love my TASCAM DR-60DMKii. May only have 2 combo XLR plus a combined 2 channel 3.5mm mini jack but this serves my recording needs very well minus the sound pads feature. One caveat I frown at, is that, this Tascam can't function as an Audio Interface.
Hello Tom. Love your videos. Its very urgent and please reply. Am going to shoot my first podcast on Saturday. Does zoom PodtraK p4 give audio feedback on headphones of all mics connected or just single mic output? Also, everytime I search something related to starting a podcast or audio audio equipment, you have the exact video made. Kudos. Love from India🇮🇳
I haven't used the Tascam myself, but I've heard great thins about it. My honest opinion is that I'm sure it's nice, but it's the same price as the RCP and doesn't really bring anything new to the table, so I'd rather stick with the original.
My P4 shut the bed not even a month into it Started freezing, then simply wouldn’t charge. For that reason, I wouldn’t recommend it. Ended up getting the rodecaster pro.
@@tombuck ah crap that’s what I get for not watching all the way through. Thanks for all the great content though you and a few other choice creators have helped me a lot this past year.
Hm. I'd disagree about their build quality. It's always _far_ better than the Tascam models of equivalent price (Zoom H4n vs Tascam DR20, for example). Plus the F6 and F8 have fantastic builds.
@@tombuck Oh, for sure. That much is apparent even visually, haha. And, to be fair, despite the difference in price, I'm impressed that the Rødecaster has a larger build, better build quality, nice full color capacitive touchscreen, more I/O, sliders, and more features. Usually one would have to pick from one or two of those factors. So I do think that despite the price increase, the Rødecaster is still by far the better value. Just noting that Zoom models generally have vastly better build quality than their competitors _at those respective price points_ - though, of course, that doesn't mean objectively good.
That’s strange, it definitely shouldn’t do that. There could be a small battery inside thats dead (usually a watch battery that saves things like settings and dates).
