Cost-Effective Equipment Equipped with Multi-Functional Features

There are so many types of music-related equipment that it’s easy to get distracted, isn't it?
Just researching new products or equipment from lesser-known manufacturers becomes fun in itself.

This time, from among those many pieces of gear, I will introduce equipment that possesses multiple functions and offers excellent value.

ZOOM / H4nPro Black Handy Recorder

More than a decade has passed since recorders that can easily record at high sound pressure levels were released, and recording band practices has become a simple task.
Zoom's H4nPRO is a popular product that continues to sell well as one of those recorders.

However, at a price of over 20,000 yen, it is a bit expensive compared to other products if used solely as a recorder for band practice.
While it does feature XY stereo microphones that make the sound image easy to understand, the slightly higher price is because it possesses many convenient functions beyond its capabilities as a recorder.

■ Equipped with Effects and Amp Models

Zoom is famous for effects pedals that are inexpensive yet deliver sound quality beyond their price, and this unit contains guitar amp models equivalent to their G5n (approx. 30,000 yen) and bass amp models equivalent to their B3 (approx. 20,000 yen).
Furthermore, with 50 types of built-in effects, it feels like having a compact multi-effects processor.
For many people, this alone would be sufficient for simple recording tasks like pre-production.

■ Functions as an Audio Interface

Those who find the amp models in the H4nPRO insufficient might want to use amp simulator software on their computer.

In that case, the H4nPRO steps in as an audio interface.
Since it supports XLR connections, you can attach a microphone to record vocals or acoustic instruments.

Additionally, you can use the built-in XY stereo microphones to utilize the unit as a microphone + audio interface combo.
Using the H4nPRO's microphones will likely result in a cleaner recording than using a mediocre external mic.

■ Functions as an MTR

Although it is limited to 4 tracks, it can also perform MTR tasks such as punch-in/out and mixdowns.

By using external microphones, you can record up to 2 tracks simultaneously, allowing you to reproduce effects panned left and right for guitar or synthesizers.

While the use of DAW software has become common, it is still a fact that many people are not comfortable with computer operations.
With the H4nPRO, you can use the MTR function to record all parts without using a computer.

Line 6 / Sonic Port VX Audio Interface with Built-in Microphone

While the H4nPRO was a recorder with audio interface functions, the Sonic Port VX is a product whose primary function is an audio interface, supplemented by other convenient features.

While its compatibility with iPhone and iPad is a selling point, its true appeal goes beyond that.

■ Equipped with Condenser Microphones

It is equipped with condenser microphones that can switch between monaural and stereo.
Since it’s compatible with iPhone and iPad, you can easily perform high-quality recordings in GarageBand and similar apps without having to prepare a separate microphone.

On LINE6's official YouTube channel, videos recorded using only the Sonic Port VX without external microphones have been uploaded.
It makes one think that a separate microphone might no longer even be necessary for things like guide vocals.

■ Equivalent to POD 2.0, Mobile POD can be used

It’s possible to use Mobile POD (software), which possesses performance comparable to the POD 2.0—a massive hit nicknamed "the kidney bean" due to its chassis shape.
While it is a somewhat older product, at the time of its release, it was a hot topic for allowing professional sounds to be produced at home. While it may not compete with the latest LINE6 products, it is perfectly fine for creating things like demo tracks.

BOSS / KATANA-AIR Wireless Guitar Amplifier

This is the wireless model of the KATANA series, renowned as digital amplifiers that possess the power and expressiveness of tube amps.
Although positioned as a lower-tier model to the WAZA amp, the KATANA series is a popular product line that inherits that sound at a low price.

By the way, the author uses a KATANA Artist and likes it so much that I have no intention of replacing it until it breaks.

■ Can be used as a home amp or for small-scale events

Small home-use amps around 10,000 yen are convenient, but wouldn't it be easy and great if you could use the sounds you created at home directly on stage?

The KATANA-AIR has enough power to be played at home and brought directly to small events (about the size of a school classroom).

Furthermore, amplifiers that are too small are not suitable for sound design intended for actual performances; even if you can raise the volume, they lack sound pressure and bass, leading to a somewhat unsatisfying feeling during home practice.
If your living environment allows for a certain amount of volume, the 30W KATANA-AIR is just the right size.

■ Ultra-Low Latency Wireless

Wireless is actually very convenient not only for lives and studios but also for home practice, as it keeps your floor space tidy.
Unlike in the past, being wireless no longer means terrible noise or unnatural sound, and latency is virtually imperceptible.

Furthermore, this transmitter contains a sensor; if it doesn't sense vibration for a while, it automatically enters standby mode, and when it senses vibration again, standby is deactivated.
It's a small feature, but it’s convenient since you don't need to manually switch the power on and off.

■ Can be used as a Bluetooth Audio Speaker

You can practice by connecting via Bluetooth from a smartphone or similar device to play along with sound sources, but since the sound quality is good to begin with, it can also be used as an audio speaker for listening.

Especially for those using USB bus-powered PC speakers, try sending your audio to the KATANA-AIR via Bluetooth.
Regardless of what speakers you have, you will likely prefer the powerful sound of the KATANA-AIR.

Additionally, since it is battery-powered, it can be used outdoors.
Using it as a speaker for background music during camping or barbecues will surely lift your mood.

■ Summary

Like the products mentioned here, there are quite a few products that possess additional convenient features beyond their main function.
When you find something you plan to buy, check the details of other items in the same category within your budget.
You might find a hidden gem that perfectly suits your usage.

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