Designed specifically for podcasting, Zoom’s PodTrak series enables the user to capture audio in the studio or on the move with powering options of battery, USB bus power, or optional AC power supply.
Powered via USB bus powering, optional AC power supply, or 2x AA battery cells, the PodTrak P4 has four microphone inputs, USB audio input, line input via TRRS jack – compatible with the optional BTA-2 Bluetooth transceiver; and four independent headphone outputs on 3.5mm stereo jack. A host of other features including Mix-Minus, feedback prevention, and sound effect pads are incorporated into this handy podcasting device.
There are four XLR mic level inputs, each with independent rotary gain control and phantom power switch. On channel three, the phantom power switch also allows the user to switch to TRRS phone input, whilst channel four allows switching to USB audio input. Channel-independent backlit mute buttons allow the engineer to quickly discern channel live status. Four sound pads (A/B/C/D) can be utilised for jingles, sound effects, or pre-recorded interviews. The user can upload their own sample sounds or choose from the eleven pre-recorded presets. A dedicated playback volume controller allows the engineer to adjust into the overall mix.
A small transport section including play/pause, stop, and record is positioned under a backlit screen that shows visualisations of channel input, record time, stereo mix, and battery life. A fourth button allows access to the menu with the play/pause, stop, and record buttons doubling as menu up/down navigation and selection buttons.
Audio is recorded to SD/SDHC/SDXC card in mono or stereo WAV format, however the Podtrak P4 can also be used as a 2-in/2-out audio interface for recording direct to computer, or iOS device using an optional Lightning to USB adapter cable.
Dimensions (WxDxH): 112 x 155x 47mm. Weight: 290g
BTA-2
BTA-2 is a Bluetooth transceiver designed to work with the PodTrak P4. Once employed, the user is able to connect to a mobile device and utilise apps including Skype or Zoom, or phone to include guests that are remotely situated.
A 3.5mm TRRS jack connector allows the transfer of audio, whilst a smaller 2.5mm TRRS jack allows the supply of power.