Zoom Official Manual for MRS-4: Basic Operation and Recording Guide
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Basic Operation

Basic Operation

This section describes basic operation steps of the MRS-4, starting with preparations for recording and continuing through the final mixdown process.

Operation is divided into four major steps.

●Step 1: Preparations for recording

Make the necessary connections and prepare to record a song.

●Step 2: Recording the first track

Use the insert effect on the input signal if necessary and record the first track.

●Step 3: Overdubbing

While listening to the recorded track, record the second and subsequent tracks (overdubbing).

●Step 4: Mixdown

Adjust the level, panning, and EQ for each recorded track, and apply the send/return effect to create a stereo mix. Apply the mixdown effect to the signal, and then send the result to the master recorder.

Step 1 Preparations for recording

1-1

 

Creating a new song

 

 

 

In the MRS-4, all data required to play a piece you have created is collectively referred to as a "song".

A song contains the following information.

●All recording data from the recorder section

●All settings of the mixer section

●All settings of the effect section

●Other settings such as for metronome and tuner functions

Up to 15 songs can be stored on one SmartMedia card, provided that there is enough capacity. By reading a song stored on a card back into the MRS-4, all previous settings are recreated (except for fader setting positions).

When you start to use the MRS-4 for recording, you must choose whether to create a new song or open an existing song for modification.

1.Connect the monitor system to the MASTER [L]/[R] jacks.

To use headphones for monitoring, connect them to the [PHONES] jack.

2.Make sure that a SmartMedia card is inserted in the SmartMedia card slot. Then turn power on in the order MRS-4 ➜ monitor system.

When the MRS-4 is turned on, it automatically checks whether the inserted SmartMedia card already contains any songs.

●When there are no songs on the SmartMedia card

A new song is automatically created, and the display shows the following information. This display condition is called the "main screen". The main screen is the starting point for all operations.

Current position within the song

000000

●When there are songs on the SmartMedia card

The following two indications appear alternately on the display.

NEWSONG YES NO

When you press the [ENTER/YES] key in this condition, a new song is created, and the main screen appears. The recording will be automatically set to HiFi.

HINT

•If you press the [EXIT/NO] key at the above screen, or if no key is operated for 5 seconds, the most recent song is automatically read into the unit. (For information on how to create a new song after a song has been read in, see page 47.)

•If required, change the recording grade setting (➝ p. 49).

Basic Operation

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ZOOM MRS-4

ZOOM MRS-4

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Contents Simultaneous 4-track playback/2-track recording Flexible track parameter settingsOther sophisticated features Versatile effectsUsage and Safety Precautions ContentsInternal configuration IntroductionSmartMedia Front panel Parts of the MRS-4Top panel Rear panel Parts of the MRS-4Turning power off Power on/off switchingTurning power on ConnectionsNewsong YES no Basic OperationCreating a new song Basic OperationLimit Adjusting input sensitivityUsing the insert effect Insert effect algorithmsSelecting and recording to a track Limit CompAdjusting input sensitivity and setting the insert effect Selecting a track and recording on itPreparations for mixdown Adjusting volume/pan/EQTrack parameters and settings FADE100Using the send/return effect Hieq on HIGHall Room Doble Send/return effect algorithms and parametersHall Room Doble TimeTime Doble Using the mixdown effectPower Send onMixdown effect algorithms Power BoostRecording on the master recorder Boost VocalUsing V-takes Reference RecorderCombining multiple tracks Bounce function Using manual punch-in/out Using auto punch-in/outRe-recording only a specified region Punch- in/out function Switching between time and measure indication Reference Locating a PointMoving to a desired point in a song Locate function Moving to a mark location Marking a point in a song marker functionAssigning a mark Clearing a markAssigning two inputs to a track Reference MixingPlaying back the same passage repeatedly A- B Repeat Reference MixingLinking two tracks stereo link function Adding the input signal to the mixdownInput setting parameters and setting range STLReference Track Editing Copying the data of an entire trackCopying a specified region of data to another location Copy Erasing a specified segmentErasing an entire track TR ERSCH T1-1 Exchanging the data of entire tracksChange You can exchange the recorded data of two specified tracksSong menu items Reference Song FunctionsSong menu basic functions Reading in an existing songProtecting a song Copying a song Song CopyDeleting a song Selecting the recording grade Song GradeSynchronizing an external device to the MRS-4 Basic metronome settingsReference Metronome/MIDI Functions available with MidiFormatting a SmartMedia card Using the tunerReference Other Functions TunerDisplay items and setting range Display adjustmentsUsing the AUX in jacks to save tracks ContSpecifications SpecificationsMRS-4 file configuration MRS-4 Card Manager SoftwareTroubleshooting Midi implementation chart Midi implementationIndex Zoom Corporation

MRS-4 specifications

The Zoom MRS-4 is a versatile, portable digital recorder designed to meet the diverse needs of musicians, podcasters, and sound engineers. Launched as part of Zoom's professional recording equipment lineup, the MRS-4 stands out for its impressive combination of features, ease of use, and sound quality.

At its core, the MRS-4 operates with a four-track recording system, allowing artists to layer sounds and create intricate compositions. This capability is particularly beneficial for musicians seeking to record multiple instruments or vocal tracks simultaneously. The device supports a variety of audio formats, enabling users to select between high-quality WAV files or more compressed formats as needed. With a dynamic range of 96 dB, the MRS-4 captures audio with clear detail, making it suitable for both professional and home studio setups.

One of the defining characteristics of the Zoom MRS-4 is its intuitive interface. The device features a backlit LCD screen and straightforward navigation buttons, allowing users to quickly access settings, select tracks, and adjust parameters without getting bogged down in complex menus. This user-friendly design makes the MRS-4 a favorite among both experienced producers and newcomers to digital recording.

The MRS-4 is equipped with a built-in stereo microphone, which can be used for ambient recording or to capture live performances with remarkable clarity. Additionally, it includes XLR inputs that facilitate the connection of external microphones, ensuring flexibility in sound capture. The recorder also boasts various effects such as reverb, chorus, and compression, allowing users to enhance their recordings directly during the tracking process.

Another impressive feature of the MRS-4 is its storage capacity. The device supports SD cards for expanded memory, making it easy to store hours of high-quality recordings. Powering the device is another advantage; the MRS-4 can be operated with standard AA batteries or via an AC adapter, ensuring it’s ready for use wherever creativity strikes.

In summary, the Zoom MRS-4 is an exceptional digital recorder distinguished by its four-track capabilities, high-quality audio formats, and user-friendly design. With features designed for flexibility and ease of use, it serves as an excellent tool for musicians, podcasters, and sound engineers alike, making it a worthy investment for anyone looking to elevate their recording experience.
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