ZOOM H4essential HANDY RECORDER Portable, X/Y mics, microSD card slot, 4-track, 32-bit float

Zoom H1 XLR has been designed to capture audio from creators who prefer to use specific microphones as opposed to fixed microphone capsules. Two 3-pin XLR/TRS combination inputs allows the user to connect either microphone with or without +48V phantom power, mixing desk feed, or instrument DI in a mono or stereo format. A stereo 3.5mm jack input allows the additional connection of on-camera microphone, lavalier, phone or similar source. The rear of the recorder features a 1/4-inch thread tripod mount.

Along with voice guidance accessibility for the visually impaired, a 128 x 64 pixel OLED screen allows for easy identification and navigation through the menus, settings, and audio feedback, and a 3.5mm jack headphone output along with onboard speaker (which auto mutes when headphones are connected) allows for audio monitoring. The recorder can be powered via 2x AA battery cells or externally via the USB-C port. Estimated operation times with phantom power turned are around 4 hours for alkaline cells, 3 hours for 1900mAh NiMH battery cells, or around 9 hours with Lithium batteries. Without phantom power, the estimated operation times are 12 hours for alkaline, 11 hours for NiMH (1900 mAh), and 19 hours for Lithium batteries. Zoom AD-17 is an optional external power supply that is compatible.

Compatible media types include microSDHC card up to 32GB, or 64GB to 1TB with microSDXC specification. Display: 128 x 64 OLED. Input impedance: 2kohm, 3.5mm jack; 2.7kohm, microphone; 1kohm, line. Dimensions (WxDxH): 62.1 x 107 x 39.3mm. Weight: 164g, including batteries.

Zoom H1essential is a 32-bit float recording device with OLED display, that has been designed to create professional quality audio recordings whilst retaining a very compact form. Aimed at broadcast, journalism and live performance applications, H1essential has an inbuilt X/Y microphone layout with a maximum SPL of 120dB, to capture stereo sound with sample rates of 44.1, 48, or 96kHz with 32-bit float resolution. An external microphone can be connected via a 3.5mm, 3-pole, stereo jack socket. This input also accepts stereo line-level. An audio guidance function is provided to aid blind and visually impaired users.

Recordings are made to microSDHC/SDXC card as either WAV files for higher resolution, or in MP3 format to maximise recording times. A USB type C socket is provided for transfer of audio files to PC or Mac. Once connected, the user can choose to use the H1essential as a card reader for file transfer or USB microphone for direct recording or live podcasting.

Recording features including tone generator for calibration, auto-record, pre-record, delay timer, self-time record, overdubbing, and one-touch record button make recording quicker and less challenging; whilst playback controls include consistent pitch speed control for easier transcribing, voice emphasize filter, and stereo bouncing functionality. A built-in 250mW speaker can be used for monitoring during playback.

H1essential can be powered via 2x AAA battery cells or optional AD-17 AC adapter. Using alkaline batteries will provide up to 10hours of use, whilst NiMH batteries will offer up to 9 hours, and Lithium battery cells offering up to 18hours. The handy recorder can also operate on USB bus power in which case this is prioritised over before battery power.

Compatible media types include microSDHC card up to 32GB, or 64GB to 1TB with microSDXC specification. Display: 128 x 64 OLED. Inbuilt microphone: Unidirectional condenser. Sensitivity: -37dB, 1Pa 1kHz. Maximum SPL: 120dB. Input impedance: 2kohm. Dimensions (WxDxH): 53.9 x 136.6 x 29mm. Weight: 92g, including batteries.

Zoom H1n has been designed to create professional quality audio recordings whilst retaining a very compact form. Aimed at broadcast, journalism and live performance applications, H1n has an inbuilt X/Y microphone layout with a maximum SPL of 120dB, to capture stereo sound with sample rates of 44.1, 48, or 96kHz with up to 24-bit resolution. An external microphone can be connected and 'plug-in' power is provided via a 3.5mm, 3-pole, stereo jack socket. This input also accepts stereo line-level.

Recordings are made to microSD/SDHC card as either linear PCM WAV files for higher resolution, or in MP3 format to maximise recording times. A microUSB socket is provided for transfer of audio files to PC or Mac. Once connected, the user can choose to use the H1n as a card reader for file transfer or USB microphone for direct recording or live podcasting.

Recording features including tone generator for calibration, auto-record, pre-record, self-time record, overdubbing, and one-touch record button make recording quicker and less challenging; whilst playback controls include consistent pitch speed control for easier transcribing, voice emphasize filter, and stereo bouncing functionality. A built-in 500mW mono speaker can be used for monitoring during playback.

Two AAA alkaline batteries give up to 10 hours of continuous operation; or included AD-17 AC adapter may be used. The H1n can also operate on USB bus power.

Compatible media types: microSD or microSDHC card, up to 32GB.

Approximate recording times (format vs removable media capacity):

Included accessories: Padded shell case, microUSB cable, AD-17 power adapter, foam windscreen, 2x AAA batteries, quick start guide.
Optional accessories: SPH-1N Accessory Pack, WSU-1 universal hairy windscreen, HS-1 hot shoe mount, MA-2 tripod to mic stand adapter, AD-17 AC adapter.

Simultaneous recording/playback tracks: 2. Signal processing: 32-bit. Recording media: microSD or microSDHC card, Class 4 or higher, up to 32Gb. Display: 1.25inch, monochrome. Inbuilt microphone: Unidirectional condenser. Gain: Infinite to +39dB. Input impedance: 2kohm. Plug-in power supported: 2.5V. Dimensions (WxDxH): 50 x 137.5 x 32mm. Weight: 60g, without batteries.

A lightweight 'ultra-portable' device, aimed at broadcast, journalism and live performance applications, the H2n has an 'intuitive and hierarchical' user interface with common menu functions easily available. It has five microphone capsules, offering four recording modes; X/Y, Mid-Side (MS), two-channel and four-channel surround sound.

Recordings are made to SD or SDHC cards as either linear PCM WAV files at up to 24-bit, 96kHz or in MP3 format to maximise recording times. If no SD card is inserted, one audio file of up to one minute at 96 kbps MP3 can be recorded using the built-in memory. The maximum file size of any one recording is limited to 2GB.

An external microphone can be connected and 'plug-in' power is provided via a 3.5mm, 3-pole, stereo jack socket. This input also accepts stereo line-level. A second 3.5mm 3-pole socket provides line/headphone out. The integrated speaker can be used to check recordings and preview playback. A USB2.0 (Mini-B type) socket is provided for transfer of audio files to PC or Mac. Once connected, the user can choose to use the H2n as an SD card reader for file transfer or USB microphone for direct recording or live podcasting.

The directional condenser microphones are configured in an X/Y pattern for stereo imaging. Mid-Side (MS) stereo, is a technique for intentional recording of ambient surround sounds. During MS recording, a directional 'Mid' microphone captures sound from the front, and a bi-directional 'Side' microphone captures sounds from the left and right; adjusting the gain of the Side microphone makes it possible to adjust the width of the stereo image. Two-channel stereo mode combines the Mid, Side and X/Y microphones; the four-channel mode records two separate stereo files which allows for post-production capability.

Two AA alkaline batteries give up to 20 hours of continuous operation; or an optional AC adapter may be used. The H2n can also operate on USB bus power.

Compatible media types: SD or SDHC card, 16MB to 32GB.

Approximate recording times in stereo mode (format vs removable media capacity):

Approximate recording times in four channel mode (format vs removable media capacity):

Included accessories: Operation manual.
Optional accessories: SPH-2N accessory pack, HS-1 hot shoe adapter, WSU-1 universal hairy windscreen, AD-17 AC power supply.

Zoom H5 portable ‘Handy Recorder’ is designed for multitrack live event recording, broadcast, or ENG situations. It provides over fifteen hours of operation with 2x AA alkaline battery cells and can simultaneously record up to four tracks of audio. The included XYH-5 shock-mounted microphone capsule allows X/Y audio capture up to 140dB SPL, whilst optional and interchangeable audio input capsules provide a number of differing input methods.

Recording directly to 16MB to 2GB SD card or 4GB to 32GB SDHC card, the H5 records up to 24-bit/96kHz in BWF-compliant WAV format, or 48 to 320kbps in MP3 format. Internal processing allows the user to employ low-cut filtering, compression, limiting or effects to the audio, whilst a chromatic tuner and metronome are handy features for some.

Positioned in the upper section of the front panel is a 128 x 64pixel, backlit LCD which displays information including file type, audio levels, time, connected capsule, and battery life, as well as offering intuitive menus which can be scrolled and selected using the rotary/push controller on the right side of the recorder. Below the display are two rotary controllers to adjust the input level for input one and two. These controls are protected by a bracing bar to avoid accidental adjustment. Track buttons and LED indicators for ‘L’, ‘R’, 1 and 2 channels are positioned above the main transport section which includes stop, play/pause, back, forward, and record. On the lower side of the handy recorder are inputs 1 and 2 by way of 1.8kohm combination jack/XLR connector. These inputs have an input gain of infinity to 55dB, with PAD off, and infinity to 35dB, with PAD on. Phantom power is applicable as +12/24/48V.

The left side of the recorder has 3.5mm jack line out, 3.5mm stereo jack socket headphone output, volume up/down buttons, USB port and power switch. The right side of the unit has the SD card slot, menu button, scroll/enter jog wheel and socket to connect the cabled remote control. A hatch on the rear of the recorder allows entry to the battery compartment, above which a threaded connection allows the use of the optional HS-1 hot shoe camera mount.

Included accessories: XYH-5 capsule, USB cable, foam windscreen, case, operational manual.
Optional accessories: PCH-5 protective case, SGH-6/SSH-6/EXH-6/XYH-6/MSH-6 microphone/input module, ECM-3 extension cable, HS-1 hot shoe mount, WSU-1 windscreen, APH-5 accessory pack.

Recording media: SD card, 16MB to 2GB; SDHC card, 4GB to 32GB. Line output: 3.5mm stereo jack socket, -10dBm, => 10kohm. Headphone output: 3.5mm stereo jack socket, 20W + 20W into 32ohm load. Built in speaker: 400mw, 8ohm, mono. USB: Class 2.0, high speed. Power requirements: 2x AA battery cells/optional AD-17 AC adapter/USB bus power. Dimensions (W x D x H): 66.8 x 135.2 x 42.1mm, body only. Weight: 176g.

Zoom H6essential is a portable ‘Handy Recorder’ that has been designed particularly for multitrack live event recording, location recording, ENG, or recording music, although it is often used in many more applications. It provides around thirty hours of operation with 4x AA lithium battery cells and can simultaneously record up to six tracks of audio. The included XYH-6e microphone capsule allows X/Y audio capture.

Recording directly to 4GB to 1TB microSDHC/SDXC card, H6essential records 32-bit float recording at 96kHz to BWF-compliant WAV format, or MP3 format. Internal processing allows the user to employ low-cut filtering, looped playback, and adjust playback speed from 50 to 100% normal.

Positioned on an angled section of the lower front panel is a full colour 320 x 240pixel LCD which displays information including file type, audio levels, time, connected capsule, and battery life, as well as offering intuitive menus which can be scrolled and selected using the rotary/push controller on the right side of the recorder. Above the display is the transport section of controls, including stop, play/pause, back, forward, and record – with LEDs to indicate play and record modes. Four track buttons plus ‘mic’ button can be used for track enable when recording. LEDs indicate when active.

The left side of the ‘Handy Recorder’ has balanced 6.3mm jack/XLR combination inputs for channels one and two, a 3.5mm headphone output, headphone volume up/down control, and DC power input. The right side of the H6essential has balanced 6.3mm jack/XLR combination inputs for channels three and four, jog/push wheel for menu navigation, menu button, and covered microSD card slot. Phantom power is applicable at 48V. A hatch on the rear of the recorder allows entry to the battery compartment, above which a threaded connection allows the use of the optional HS-1 hot shoe camera mount.

Recording media: microSDHC card, 4GB to 32GB; SDXC card, 64GB to 1TB. Line output: 3.5mm stereo jack socket, 110ohm. Headphone output: 3.5mm stereo jack socket, 20W + 20W into 32ohm load. Built in speaker: 250mw. USB: Type C, USB2.0, high speed. Power requirements: 4x AA battery cells/optional AD-17 AC adapter/USB-C bus power. Dimensions (WxDxH): 78.1 x 160.1 x 42.8mm, body only; 69.1 x 50.8 x 43mm, XYH-6e module. Weight: 381g, including batteries; 42g, XYH-6e.

Zoom H8 is a portable ‘Handy Recorder’ that has been designed for multitrack live event recording, location recording, ENG, or recording music, and audio interfacing. Providing approximately 15hrs of operation when running on 4x AA alkaline battery cells, the H8 can record up to 12-channels of audio simultaneously – recording directly to SD/SDHC/SDXC card.

A 2.4-inch, 320x240pixel colour touch screen enables the user to access menu options and functions including tuner, guitar lab for effects processing when connected to a PC or Mac, and three main recording functions – Field app, Music app, and Podcast app. Field app has been designed for recordists wanting to capture sound for movies, videos, or live concert recording whereby external microphones would normally be used to compliment the audio capture. Music app has been designed for those wanting multitrack recording with punch in/out options and track mixing. Podcast app allows the user to capture audio for live streaming, along with sound pads for playing jingles and effects.

The included XYH-6 microphone capsule allows X/Y audio capture, whilst other optional and interchangeable audio input capsules provide a number of differing audio pickup patterns. H8 records up to 24-bit/96kHz in BWF-compliant WAV format, or 128 to 320kbps in MP3 format.

The front facing panel of the H8 has most of the main switching and controllers including six rotary input gain controllers, each with associated PAD switch and active indicator. Below the touchscreen there are three transport buttons for stop, play/pause, and record. The front facing edge of the H8 has a power/hold switch, remote jack port for Zoom BTA-1 connection; micro-B USB port for connection to iOS or iPadOS device or optional Zoom AD-17 power supply; 3.5mm headphone jack socket, and 3.5mm jack line output connector. Inputs 1, 2, 3, 4, A, and B are located on each side of the handy recorder, and the microphone module is connected to a connecting port on the top edge. The SD card slot is also positioned on the side of the recorder. Inputs 1, 2, 3, and 4 have balanced 3-pin XLR connectors whilst input channels A and B have 3-pin XLR/unbalanced 6.35mm jack combination inputs. Channels A and B have Hi-Z associated switches to allow the direct input of a guitar.

Included accessories: XYH-6 capsule, 4x AA battery cells, quick guide.
Optional accessories: HS-1 hot shoe adapter, EXH-8, VRH-8, XAH-8, XYH-5, SSH-6, SGH-6, MSH-6, XYH-6, EXH-6, ECM-3, ECM-6.

Recording media: SD/SDHC/SDXC card 8GB to 1TB (see attached sheet for confirmed compatibility) Line output: 3.5mm stereo jack socket. Headphone output: 3.5mm stereo jack socket. Built in speaker: 400mw, 8ohm, mono. Power requirements: 4x AA battery cells/optional AD-17 AC adapter/USB bus power. Dimensions (W x D x H): 116.4 x 163.3 x 48.6mm, body only. Weight: 354g.

ECM-3, ECM-6 Extension Cable

These items are extension cables designed to give the user the option of remote mounting their Zoom microphone/input capsules for better placement. ECM-3 is a 3m extension, and ECM-6 is a 6m extension, both include a hot shoe adapter to allow the user to mount to a tripod or boom pole.

EXH-6 Input Module, dual mic/line

This module has two balanced 6.3mm/XLR combination inputs to give the user additional inputs to their compatible Zoom recording device. Each input has a 0/20dB pad switch along with rotary input level controller.

Compatible with H6, H5, Q8, U-44, F8, F6, F1-LP and F1-SP.

EXH-8 Input Module, 4x mic

Zoom EXH-8 module gives the user an additional four XLR microphones inputs, each with dedicated gain control and pad switch. Each input has a dedicated input gain rotary control with associated clip light, 0dB/-20dB input level switch, and illuminating channel status light. The module can also provide phantom power when an optional DC5V power supply is connected.

Compatible with H8.

MSH-6 Microphone Module, mid-side

Zoom MSH-6 capsule contains a unidirectional forward-facing microphone element as well as a bi-directional, side-facing microphone element to capture audio otherwise known as ‘mid-side’. The compatible recorder’s MS (mid-side) decoder allows the capture of a stereo image that can be later adjusted – particularly handy for film, video and television application.

Compatible with H6, H5, Q8, U-44, F8, F6, F1-LP and F1-SP.

SGH-6 Microphone Module, shotgun

SGH-6 is a shotgun microphone capsule designed to capture audio front the front of the microphone and reject audio from the side or rear.

Compatible with H6, H5, Q8, U-44, F8, F6, F1-LP and F1-SP.

SSH-6 Microphone Module, stereo shotgun

Zoom SSH-6 microphone capsule features a ‘super-directional’ microphone element for capturing audio in the front or centre, and a bi-directional microphone element to capture audio from the left and right of the capsule. This results in a ‘mono-compatible’ stereo image that can be adjusted in post-production, often desired in film, video and television applications. Includes hairy windscreen.

Compatible with H6, H5, Q8, U-44, F8, F6, F1-LP and F1-SP.

VRH-8 Microphone Module, Ambisonic

An Ambisonic microphone capsule that incorporates four condenser microphones to capture 360-degree audio. An internal accelerometer continually aligns the capsule whilst the inbuilt Ambisonic decoder deals with the format conversions. A Guard prevents accidental damage to the microphone capsules. A rotary gain controller, with guard to avoid accidental adjustment, is positioned on the top of the microphone base for easy adjustment.

Compatible with H8

XAH-8 Microphone Module, XY/AB formation

This microphone capsule allows the user to capture audio in a tight XY formation or wide AB formation for enhanced stereo recording. A rotary gain controller, with guard to avoid accidental adjustment, is positioned on the front of the microphone base for easy adjustment.

Compatible with H8

XYH-5 Microphone Module, shock mounted stereo

This capsule is designed for live broadcast and podcast applications and provides two unidirectional condenser microphones, each fixed at a 90degree angle. Capable of handling input levels up to 140dB SPL, this capsule is also well equipped to capture audio from live concerts or electronic news gathering (ENG) applications.

Compatible with H6, H5, Q8, U-44, F8, F6, F1-LP and F1-SP.

XYH-6 Microphone Module, adjustable stereo

Like XYH-5, Zoom XYH-6 is an X/Y audio capturing microphone capsule however it doesn’t have shock mounting properties. The angle of the microphone capsules can be altered from 90 to 120 degrees for a wider stereo image.

Compatible with H6, H5, Q8, U-44, F8, F6, F1-LP and F1-SP.

HS-1 Hot Shoe Adapter

An attachment that allows the physical connection of a Handy Recorder to a DSLR camera via the hot shoe mount.

RC4 Remote Controller

A wired remote controller that allows the user to start/stop recording and playback, fast-forward and rewind, adjust output volume and audio recording level, and switch between input channels. The remote is supplied with a 2m cable and also includes a 3m extension cable.

Compatible with H4n Pro