The Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder combines Zoom's years of experience in portable recording with enhanced technology and features to present a versatile device that can be used for film and broadcast applications, as well as journalism, podcasting, musical performances and rehearsals, and much more. The H2n has an unprecedented 5 microphones built in, providing you with 4 selectable recording patterns to choose from. A simple dial on top of the recorder lets you switch between traditional XY stereo, 2-channel surround, 4-channel surround, and a mid-side stereo mode. The mid-side mode allows you to adjust the width of your stereo field for terrific flexibility. When recording in RAW mode, you can even adjust the field after you've made a recording.
The H2n records to widely-available SD and SDHC flash memory cards, and supports capacities up to 32GB. A 2GB card is included so you can use the recorder right away. When using a 32GB card, you can capture up to 50 hours of CD-quality WAV files, or up to 555 hours of stereo 128kbps MP3 files. An integrated reference speaker makes it easy to review your recordings to make sure everything has been captured properly. The streamlined and intuitive interface puts critical controls right at your fingertips. The large 1.8" backlit LCD display makes it easy to navigate through system menus and monitor audio levels. The analog-type mic gain wheel lets you make precise adjustments on-the-fly.
If you'd like to connect external equipment, the H2n provides you with a 3.5mm mic/line input, allowing you to hook up your favorite microphones, instruments, and other sound sources. A 3.5mm headphone/line output makes it easy to connect headphones, portable speakers, and other devices. A remote jack lets you connect the optional wired remote to start, stop, and pause recordings, as well as add marks. It also reduces handling noise for the cleanest possible recordings. A high-speed USB 2.0 port lets you transfer recordings to your Mac or PC. You can even use the H2n as a live USB mic, terrific for VoIP chats and podcasting. Steinberg WaveLab LE 7 software is included, giving you audio editing and mastering tools to help you turn your recordings into finished masterpieces.
The H2n offers a number of versatile powering options. It offers over 20 hours of continuous operation on a pair of standard AA alkaline batteries. It can also be operated via USB bus power, or an AC adapter (sold separately). In the event of battery failure or accidental power loss, your recordings won't be lost. A data recovery function will automatically restore you data the next time the recorder is powered on, so you don't lose one-of-a-kind audio moments. Other features of the H2n include a lo-cut filter, a compressor/limiter, auto gain, pre-rec, auto-rec, a tuner and metronome, variable speed playback, key control, A-B repeat, file dividing, normalize, MP3 post-encode, marker, and surround mixer to give you useful tools for a variety of applications.
| Type | Hand-held stereo digital audio recorder |
| Recording/Reading Methods |
SD/SDHC card (up to 32GB supported, 2GB card included) USB connection to PC/Mac |
| Recording Bit Rate |
WAV: 16 and 24-bit MP3: 48 to 320kbps |
| Sampling Frequency |
WAV: 44.1/48/96kHz MP3: 44.1kHz |
| Number of Channels | 2 or 4, Depending on mode |
| Recording Time |
All times are for a 1GB memory card Stereo Mode: MP3: 17 hours 21 mins (128kbps), 6 hours 56 mins (320kbps) WAV: 1 hour 34 mins (16-bit/44.1kHz), 1 hour 26 mins (16-bit/48kHz), 28 mins (24-bit/96kHz) 4-Channel Mode: WAV: 47 mins (16-bit/44.1kHz), 28 mins (24-bit/48kHz) |
| AD/DA Conversion | 24-bit, 128x oversampling |
| Signal Processing | 32-bit |
| Microphone Type | Mid side stereo and 90° XY stereo |
| SPL | 120dB max |
| Input Gain | 0 to +39dB |
| Connectors |
1 x 3.5mm mic/line stereo input 1 x 3.5mm headphone/line stereo output 1 x Remote jack 1 x High-speed USB 2.0 port, mini-B type |
| Input Impedance | 2k ohms |
| Output Impedance | 10k ohms or more |
| Output Level |
-10dBm rated 20mW + 20mW phones output level @ 32 ohms |
| Speaker | 400mW @ 8 ohms |
| Display | 1.8" (128 x 64) Backlit LCD |
| Power |
2 x AA or LR6 Batteries (Up to 20 hours operation) USB or AC power (AC adapter sold separately) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 2.7 x 4.5 x 1.7" (68 x 114 x 43mm) |
| Weight | 4.6 oz (130g) (without batteries) |
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Reviewed by 43 customers
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
H2n solved a difficult audio problem. We use this for recording audio of public board meetings with eventual transcription. The room has POOR acoustics. This device has exceptional capabilities for recording HIGH DEFINITION sound and has provided our transcriber with clear voice definition of all partisipants. Built-in microphone is just AMAZING!
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
A co-worker let me borrow his original H2 to grab an interview on a red carpet event right on 42nd Street in NYC. I was amazed at how these mics picked up my interview with a band of three people so clearly amidst the crowds, taxis and bus horns. When I went to pick one up for myself I was pleased to see that the H2n had come out, and picked it up right away. It's even better! The biggest improvement over the original H2 is the gain wheel (vs. a "lo/mid/hi" gain switch). Get the accessory kit with the screw in stick handle if you're going to be in the field with this, as holding the unit itself can cause unwanted noise. Enjoy!
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
Have used many recording devices over the years, from Nagra recorders back in the day to the latest digital units. By far, for the money and performance, the Zoom H2N is the best item available.
When used in conjunction with a DSLR shooting video, and routing the signal out to the camera's CF and SD cards for syncing and safety, I simply start the recording process on the Zoom (one button) and let her rip (after all, it will record 48kHz/24-bit for half a day on one 16GB card). Then, even though I stop and start my video recording as I look for new shots or angles, I never have to worry about missing the audio. If I don't have video to go with the sound, I simply shoot some b-roll and cut it in. Far better to have b-roll video with the full soundtrack than a-roll video and sound that came in ten seconds after the most poignant thing of the day was said and the camera was not rolling.
I love this little guy, and for the price, can "expend" one on every major assignment and not worry about anything but the wave files on the SD card. Of course, if it survives to record another day, all the better.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
Recording interviews, music, public discussions for radio broadcasts
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
I bought this recorder to capture sound to accompany video shot with my Canon EOS 5D Mark III DSLR. This recorder seems perfect for that. Easy to set up and use, excellent microphones and choice of microphone configuration and use and REALLY GOOD sound quality.
It is handy, as described. I can use it as a regular mic for voiceovers and so on at my desk as well as using it in the field.
I am delighted with it.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
Wow! Great sound. This is a very versatile recorder that is perfect for my applications. I need high quality sound to be added to slide shows and movies. This has great pickup and the multi-phased microphones really make it work in many situations. I also use the remote Mike for stereo voice overs. High quality sound added to slideshows and or video shows makes all the difference between professional versus amateur productions.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
I used the product to record a play for extra sound for a video. I put the Zoom in a place I couldn't run cables to the camera. The sound was great in the XY mode. The stereo imaging was impressive.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
I use this recorder to get audio for my amateur video productions. It is great for my purpose. The unit has so much more that it can do - most of which is beyond my abilities. For my purposes, the sound quality is exceptional. The unit is easy to use. It comes with Steinberg WaveLab LE 7 audio editing software. There is no real instruction manual for the software so this is of not much use to me. Maybe those really into audio editing can find some benefit. The audio however does import easily into Final Cut Express so most of my audio editing is done there. An accessory package is available for it and it is well worth it - particularly the extension remote, stand and windsock.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
Absolutely brilliant. Not only does in look amazingly in the new all black look but the addition of a few new features like MID-SIDE recording is a first for portable audio recorders.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
I continue to be impressed with the Zoom products. I first began using the Zoom H4n for field recordings and decided to try this smaller H2n. I use these primarily to create backup recordings to my wireless microphone systems that feed my video cameras. On occasion, during post, I'll discover some wireless interference that I didn't notice during recordings and wish I had a hard-wired back-up. What I now do is plug a second lavaliere microphone into the H2n which I have in a small mobile phone case attached to the talent like a body pack transmitter. This allows me to have a back-up recording that's hard-wired in case I need an alternate source. Works quite well and, although this model is made of a seemingly less-sturdy plastic than the H4n, I'm still impressed with its audio quality, feature set and design.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
I bought this for dslr filmmaking. It is small enough to mount on the hotshoe of the camera. Simple to operate. I use it with a lavalier microphone for interviewing. I haven't tested the built-in mics yet. Quality seems fine. It has a mic gain dial on one side which could be improved by numbering the dial. Built-in reference speaker is useful.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
This recorder arrived promptly, and in time to be taken from Michigan to Pennsylvania for a trial run in recording a board meeting, the purpose for which I had bought it. We met and recorded for 13 hours on February 18! The installation/set up took place right before the meeting started and was easy and intuitive. Of course the sound is the best part. Thank you for offering an excellent product. I will next be recording a Sunday morning church service...with confidence.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
Perfect little recorder for on location audio. Quality is great and the menu is fast & intuitive. The battery power is endless. The 2 channel surround sound also simplifies life when looking to add a little extra dimensions to my videos without over complicating my workflow. The only gripe I have with the H2n is the plastic construction which makes it feel cheap.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
I've used it to record solo flute, and the sound is incredible for a hand-held device!! My only complaint so far is that it's a little difficult to navigate the files(uh, without reading the directions anyway)to find edit and erase. But I haven't played with it too much so far because I've been so amazed with the sound quality of the recording. The actual playback sound is ok for a quick listen, but played through earphones or a stereo is awesome!!
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
I had read nothing but good reviews about the Zoom H2 series Handy Recorder. Preferring to order directly from a person, I called B&H directly and spoke to a very friendly and capable salesman who asked if I'd looked at the H2n, Zoom's latest entry in the field. Two hours later I called back to order the H2n.Two days later I was ready to send the unit back. Although in hindsight the manual adequately explained unit functionality, it failed to explain some very basic concepts (like which directional mics were involved in the various settings!) and how one might actually use the equipment. It wasn't until I'd watched a "general usage" YouTube video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xh8tCoqTWW0&feature=related that most of my questions were put to rest; the unit worked up to expectations; and I was ready to order the accessory kit. Recommendations:- The manual is essential but tiny. Go to the Zoom website and download a pdf. copy.- Don't count on technical support from Zoom. I could find no way to contact them on their website.- Review how to use the unit on YouTube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xh8tCoqTWW0&feature=related - Unfortunately, unlike the H2 (I bought the H2n primarily because of the incredible difference in battery life.) accessories aren't included with the H2n. Even more unfortunately, you can't buy the accessories separately. But the remote unit itself is worth the cost.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
Nicely made piece of gear, but not exactly what I needed, ended up returning it and trading up to the Sony PCM-D50, a very nice field recorder.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
I got this after much Internet research, and have been very, very pleased with it. While the H2n is obviously good for many types of audio recordings, I got it for one purpose only: recording club concerts. I've been using a Kodak Zi8/Sony ECM-DS70P mic combo for the past couple of years for this with much success (combined with the right editing tools), but I've been wanting to upgrade my kit for a little while now. Since there is still nothing that replaces the Zi8/Sony combo for convenience and pocketbility, I thought split the video/audio recording funcions, with the emphasis on good, clear audio in even the most poundingly loud venues. The H2n has so far easily handled rock club sound volumes easily, and without my having to turn on its limiter functions: all I did was turn down the Mic Gain to its lowest setting and I was good. I should emphasize that the B&H specs list only touch upon what this device can do, so it would do you well to download the H2n manual from Zoom's site if you really want to know what this thing can do.
I've only had this now for a couple of weeks so I'm still experimenting with it. I had this Nikon Coolpix P7000 camera kicking around, one of the *very* few non-DLSR with a mic input and OK-enough video in dim lighting, so I've been temporarily using that with the H2n via a geeky bracket setup (a "Smith-Victor TR56" combined with swivel shoe mount/adapter similar to the "VariZoom VZ-Shoe" B&H carries), as well as using a 3.5 mm male-male cable I had lying around to connect the H2n's line out Nikon's mic jack (I later got a Whirlwind WHH4NL cable for this -- it's shorter and provides -25 db attenuation.) The mic-in on the Nikon has always been fussy, so this combo produces a hissy audio track with the Nikon's video, but that is meant to be use only as a reference track to make syncing in the audio from the H2n simpler during the editing process. As far as editing goes, the frequency response of the H2n in loud venues has been stellar, at least in its default "Mid-side" (MS) mode (look it up). The frequency response peaks at about 190 Hz, with a nice gradual slope to just beyond 20k Hz, and very slight slope in the opposite direction to sub bass. This just means you need very little EQ'ing to come up with a smooth, linear, final audio result.
As I type this, I have 5 videos posted on Youtube using the H2n along with the P7000. I still consider them to be test videos, but they should give you a good idea of the H2n's capabilities. Just go to YouTube and do a seach with the keywords "Melodymatters H2n". I included some info about the recording process in the descriptions.
My only complaints about the H2n is that the hatch for the SD card looks like I might break it if I'm not careful, and that the screen display goes from too bright to too dark in dim venues -- I wish there was a low-light display option.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
Use for recording of oral history as well as recording voice tracks for radio spots. Excellent sensitivity, tonal qualities and battery life. There are so many things I want to do with this now. This may be the very best investment I have made in a very long time.
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
Nice product, a bit cheap feeling for the money and the playback volume of the play back is very low.. that should be improved..
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Comments about Zoom H2n Handy Recorder Portable Digital Audio Recorder:
The best recorder is the one you have with you. The H2n is easy to carry around. More importantly, the sound for the price is stunning.
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