Plug in your audio source. If you are recording a vocal, use the line-level input jack on the rear to connect your mic. If you are recording an instrument, such as an electric guitar or bass, use the "Guitar" input. It's essential to use the appropriate input socket. If you don't, while the signal may pass through and record, it won't be as strong as it should be. Each recording jack is configured for a specific type of signal.
Connect a pair of headphones to the "Headphones" jack on the rear of the PXR4. This enables you to hear what you're recording in real time.
Press and hold "Shift," then press the "Mixer" button to select "Pre." This assigns the pre-fader level for the subsequent adjustment.
Play or sing into the PXR4. As you do so, adjust the "Gain" dial to set the "Input" level. The input level determines the strength of the recorded signal. Too weak and the sound is quiet and thin. Too loud and the sound is distorted. If distortion occurs, the volume units meter will flash. Set the input level so it is as high as possible before distortion occurs.
Press and hold "Shift" again and use "Mixer" to select "Post." This assigns the post-fader level as for the subsequent adjustment.
Set the post-fader level using the "Gain" dial, which is the level of the audio in relation to the other instruments. Set it to halfway for now.
Audition the input signal. Put on your headphones and play or sing a little. If you hear any problems, such as interference from air conditioners or crackling cables, rectify them now before recording.
Press the "Menu" button and use the value dial to scroll to the song you just recorded.
Select the "Song Grade" parameter using the cursor. Once highlighted, select "H" for high. This is the best recording quality. It takes up more memory space and requires more time to upload, but sounds better.
Adjust the slider dials for each of the individual channels, to balance them against each other. Aim to balance the levels so the vocals are loudest, without being over-dominant.