Zoom H5 4-Input / 4-Track Portable Handy Recorder with Interchangeable X/Y Mic Capsule

Used Cat #3453533 • MFR #ZH5
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Zoom H5 4-Input / 4-Track Portable Handy Recorder with Interchangeable X/Y Mic Capsule
This image is for illustrative purposes only
Key Features
  • Live/Location Recording & Podcasting
  • Swappable Stereo Mic, Built-In Speaker
  • Dual XLR-1/4" Mic/Line Inputs
  • Fast, User-Friendly Operability
Ideal for documentaries, podcasting, audio for video, and professional sound design, the Zoom H5 portable handheld recorder lets you quickly record up to four input signals regardless of your audio experience. With a swappable stereo microphone capsule, versatile 2-channel inputs, and up to 4-track recording, the H5 is both user-friendly and easily expandable.

Like other H-Series Handy recorders such as the H4n Pro and H6, you can hold it in your hand, attach it to a mic stand or tripod, or mount it to a camera (shoe mount available separately); the H5 packs an impressive array of features into a rugged, rubberized body that's more than ready to meet the varied demands of musicians, videographers, sound designers, content creators, and news shooters.

From the plentiful battery life to the powerful audio processing functions, the H5 is well equipped to handle anything from tracking live performances and podcasts to recording interviews, dialogue, and sound effects. It can supply phantom or plug-in power for condenser mics, or accept direct connections from synths, keyboards, drum machines, or +4 dB line-level mixers. No matter the source, selectable auto-recording and pre-recording ensure that you'll never miss the start of a take, and stereo safety track recording provides duplicate tracks at a lower level to avoid distortion.
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Zoom H5 Overview

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From Manufacturer

Ideal for documentaries, podcasting, audio for video, and professional sound design, the Zoom H5 portable handheld recorder lets you quickly record up to four input signals regardless of your audio experience. With a swappable stereo microphone capsule, versatile 2-channel inputs, and up to 4-track recording, the H5 is both user-friendly and easily expandable.

Like other H-Series Handy recorders such as the H4n Pro and H6, you can hold it in your hand, attach it to a mic stand or tripod, or mount it to a camera (shoe mount available separately); the H5 packs an impressive array of features into a rugged, rubberized body that's more than ready to meet the varied demands of musicians, videographers, sound designers, content creators, and news shooters.

From the plentiful battery life to the powerful audio processing functions, the H5 is well equipped to handle anything from tracking live performances and podcasts to recording interviews, dialogue, and sound effects. It can supply phantom or plug-in power for condenser mics, or accept direct connections from synths, keyboards, drum machines, or +4 dB line-level mixers. No matter the source, selectable auto-recording and pre-recording ensure that you'll never miss the start of a take, and stereo safety track recording provides duplicate tracks at a lower level to avoid distortion.

Fast, User-Friendly Operability
The H5's front panel is ergonomically arranged with its most essential and commonly used controls—transport buttons for record, play/pause, stop, back, and forward operations, individual record-arm buttons that double as mute switches during playback, and large gain knobs. For added safety, a hold switch disables all front-panel buttons to prevent accidental operation during recording. Day or night, view vital information such as audio levels, recording time, battery status, and more on the large, monochrome backlit LCD.
Instant Access to Gain Adjustments
Each H5 input has its own dedicated gain control knob, located beneath a protective bar that prevents accidental movement during handling. There's no track selection or button pressing required to optimize your recording levels; just turn the dials (clearly labeled from 0 to 10) anytime you need to adjust the gain. If your XLR-1/4" input source is so loud that you need even less gain than the preamps provide at the "0" setting, use the menu system to activate the -20 dB pad (selectable per input).
Interchangeable Stereo Microphone Capsule
Leave your external mics at home and travel light. The H5 is outfitted with Zoom's XYH-5 interchangeable stereo microphone that provides clear, phase-accurate capture in a classic 90° X/Y configuration for a tight stereo image. The matched unidirectional condensers are housed within a specially designed shockmount that employs rugged external mic wires and rubberized material to minimize vibration and handling noise. With nothing more than the H5, you're set to record speech, practice sessions, concerts, or ambient and environmental sounds, even ear-rattling ones up to 140 dB!
Supports Interchangeable Zoom Mic Capsules
The Zoom mic capsule input on the H5 accommodates Zoom's line of separately available interchangeable capsules, which can be swapped out as easily as the lenses of a camera. With mid-side, X/Y, and shotgun mic capsules to choose from, you can be ready to record music, dialog, or sound effects without carting an external microphone setup. Opt for the EXH-6 combo input capsule to accept two additional mic/line signals via XLR-1/4" jacks.
2-Channel Microphone/Line Inputs
Equipped with two XLR-1/4" combo inputs and a 3.5mm stereo mini-jack input, the H5 can accommodate condenser microphones, +4 dB balanced line-level sources, or signals from unbalanced instruments with active electronics. Turn on 12, 24, or 48 VDC phantom power to the XLR jacks, or 2.5V plug-in power to the mini jack. Whether you plan on recording studio condenser mics, a stereo feed from a mixer or wireless receiver, or a lavalier mic for an interview, the H5's preamps (identical to those found in the H6) are ready to deliver low-noise (-120 dB EIN) performance.

If you happen to setup external microphones in a mid-side configuration, the integrated MS decoder allows adjustment to the perceived width of the stereo image, which is beneficial for sound design, broadcasting, or general stereo-to-mono compatibility.
Record up to 4 Channels Live or Overdub Layers
The H5 boasts multiple recording modes, and is capable of up to 24-bit / 96 kHz resolution. Record in stereo from the X/Y mic capsule or input jacks, or use Multi File mode to simultaneously record the X/Y mic and two external sources (great for getting the room sound and a stereo feed from a mixer). Alternatively, Multi File mode can be utilized for overdubbing in case layers of instruments need to be added after an initial recording. The H5's internal mixdown function lets you adjust levels and pans as you blend four tracks down to stereo.
SD Card Recording and Audio Interface Functionality
Maximize portability by recording directly to an SD card (up to 2GB capacity) or SDHC card (up to 32GB capacity). A 2GB SDHC card will yield approximately three hours of 16-bit / 44.1 kHz stereo recording time using the BWF-compliant WAV format for uncompressed audio quality and industry-standard file compatibility. Note that media cards are available separately, and larger capacity cards will increase startup times.

Alternatively, use the H5 as a 4-in/2-out USB 2.0 audio interface at up to 24-bit / 48 kHz. For audio interface operation with an iPad (Apple Camera Connection Kit required and available separately), select USB Stereo mode, which offers two channels in and out at up to 16-bit / 48 kHz. The USB port also enables fast file transfer and firmware updates.
3.5mm Outputs for Simultaneous Hookup to a Camera and Headphones
The H5 boasts 3.5mm line and headphone mini-jack outputs for simultaneously feeding your camera/DSLR and a pair of headphones. In addition to the dedicated side-panel headphone volume control, the level of the line output can be adjusted via the menu, allowing you to optimize the signal level being sent to your camera without the need for an attenuator cable. For quick playback reference, a built-in monophonic speaker is also provided.
Powered via AA Batteries or AC Adapter
Power the H5 via two AA batteries, or plug it into a wall outlet with an AD-17 AC adapter (available separately). Alkaline batteries can keep the H5 running for up to 15 hours of continuous 16-bit / 44.1 kHz recording using the built-in X/Y mic. When using the H5 in the stereo USB audio interface mode, USB bus powering is possible.
Rugged and Portable, Handheld or Mounted
The rubberized, ergonomic body lends itself naturally to handheld use. Should you need to mount it on a mic stand or tripod, a threaded hole on the back of the H5 obviates the need for stand adapters. Obtain a hot shoe adapter (available separately) to attach the H5 directly to a DSLR.
Signal Processing Adds Sonic Polish
The H5's onboard effects allow you to add polish to your recordings. Compression and limiting compensate for fluctuations in input level, while a low-cut filter helps eliminate wind noise, blowing, and other kinds of low-frequency rumble. Normalize files for maximum gain, split them into smaller chunks, and even insert up to 99 marks per recording.

There's an onboard metronome and tuner, and you can loop playback and adjust pitch and speed independently, making the H5 an ideal tool for phrase training.
Special Recording Functions
The H5 offers selectable recording functions designed to prevent you from accidentally missing the start of a performance. By keeping the previous two seconds of audio whenever you press the record button, the pre-record option ensures that you'll never cut off the beginning of a great take. Auto-record can automatically start recording when a user-set sound level is detected, making it great for voice-activated recording.

Backup record enables the H5 to automatically record a duplicate set of stereo tracks with 12 dB less input gain. Even if your original track is distorted, chances are the backup version will be fine!
Supports External Remote Control
Use the RCH-5 remote (available separately) to control the transport, arm tracks, and adjust volume at a distance while eliminating handling noise.
UPC: 884354013196

Zoom H5 Specs

Key Specs
Form Factor
Handheld Recorder
Number of Channels
4
Number of Tracks
4
Maximum Sampling Rate
96 kHz / 24-Bit
Microphone
Interchangeable Stereo Pair
Audio Interface Capability
Multi-Track
Timecode
No Timecode Support
Analog I/O
Combo XLR-1/4" / 1/8" (3.5 mm) / 1/8" (3.5 mm) Headphone
Bias/Plug-In & Phantom Power
2.5 V Bias/Plug-In Power
12 / 24 / 48 V Phantom Power
Digital Audio I/O
No
Form Factor
Handheld Recorder
General
Primary Use Applications
Audio-for-Video, Dictation & Transcription, Music Recording
Recording Media
SD card: 16MB to 2GB
SDHC card: 4GB to 32GB
Display
Backlit LCD (128 x 64 pixels)
Number of Input Channels
4
Number of Microphone Inputs
2
Power Requirements
AA size (LR6) battery x 2
AC adapter (AD-17 (DC5V/1A/USB-type, optional)
USB bus power
Number of Tracks
4
I/O
Maximum Sampling Rate
96 kHz / 24-Bit
Inputs
L/R [XYH-5 X/Y mic]:
Mic Type: Unidirectional
Sensitivity: -45 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
Input Gain: -∞ to 52 dB
Max Sound Pressure Input: 140 dB SPL

Mic/Line In:
Connector: 1/8" stereo mini jack
Input Gain: -∞ to 52 dB
Input Impedance: 2 kΩ or more
Plug-In Power: 2.5V supported
Backup Recording: -12 dB lower than set L/R input gain

Inputs 1/2:
Connectors: XLR / TRS combo jacks (XLR: Pin 2 hot / TRS: Tip hot)
Input Gain (PAD OFF): -∞ to 55.0 dB
Input Gain (PAD ON): -∞ to 35.0 dB
Input Impedance: 1.8 kΩ or more
Max Input Level: +22 dBu (PAD ON)
Phantom Power: +12V /+24V /+48V
Equivalent Input Noise (EIN): -120 dBu or less
Outputs
Line Out:
Connector: 1/8" stereo mini jack
Rated Output Level: -10 dBm
Output Load Impedance: 10 kΩ or more

Phone Out:
Connector: 1/8" stereo mini jack
Output Level: 20 W + 20 W into 32 Ω load

Built-in speaker:
400 mw 8 Ω mono
Display
Backlit LCD
Built-In Speaker
Yes: 400 mW Mono
USB
Mass Storage Class Operation:
Class: USB 2.0 high speed


Audio Interface Operation:

Multitrack Mode:
Class: USB 2.0 high speed
Sampling Frequency: 44.1/48 kHz
Bit Rate: 16-/24-bit
Inputs / Outputs: 4 / 2

Stereo Mode:
Class: USB 2.0 full speed
Sampling Frequency: 44.1/48 kHz
Bit Rate: 16-bit
Inputs / Outputs: 2 / 2
USB Bus Powered Operation: Yes
iPad Operation: Supported in stereo mode only
Special Features
Pre-Record Buffer, Remote Control Capable, Voice Activation
Recording
Recording Formats
Stereo Mode:
WAV (BWF-compliant)
Sampling Frequency: 44.1/48/96 kHz
Bit Rate: 16-/24-bit (Stereo)
Maximum Simultaneous Recording Tracks: 2
MP3
Sampling Frequency: 44.1 kHz
Bit Rate: 48/56/64/80/96/112/32/160/192/224/256/320 kbps

Multi-Track Mode:
WAV (BWF-compliant)
Sampling Frequency: 44.1/48 kHz
Bit Rate: 16-/24-bit (mono/stereo)
Maximum Simultaneous Recording Tracks: 6 (L/R + INPUT 1/2 + L/R backup)

 

Audio File Formats
BWF, MP3, WAV
Sample Rates
44.1 to 96 kHz
Bit Depth
16/24-Bit
Audio Interface Capability
Multi-Track
Signal Processing & FX
Compressor, Limiter, Low-Cut Filter, Pitch Control
Timecode
No Timecode Support
Media/Memory Card Slot
Single Slot: SD/SDHC [32 GB Maximum]
Internal Storage
No
Microphone
Microphone
Interchangeable Stereo Pair
Physical Specifications
Mic Configuration
X/Y
Dimensions
H5: 2.3 x 5.3 x 1.7" (66.8 x 135.2 x 42.1 mm)
XYH-5 X/Y mic:2.6 x 2.4 x 1.6" (65.5 x 62.2 x 41 mm)
Polar Pattern
Cardioid
Weight
H5: 6.2 oz (176.0 g)
XYH-5 X/Y mic: 3.3 oz (94.0 g)
Maximum SPL
140 dB
Sensitivity
-45 dBV/Pa
Connectivity
Analog Audio I/O
2x Combo XLR-1/4" TRS Mic/Line Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Mic/Line Input
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Line Output
1x 1/8" / 3.5 mm TRS Headphone Output
Bias/Plug-In & Phantom Power
2.5 V Bias/Plug-In Power
12 / 24 / 48 V Phantom Power
Digital Audio I/O
No
Sync I/O
No
USB
1x Mini-USB
Wireless
No
Mobile App Compatible
No
Performance
Gain
Up to 52 dB (X/Y Mic, 1/8" Inputs)
Up to 55 dB (Mic/Line Inputs)
Maximum Input Level
+22 dBu (Mic/Line Input)
Headphone Output Power
20 mW per Channel into 32 Ohms
SNR/Noise
≤ -120 dBu EIN
Power
Power Options
Battery, USB Bus Power, AC/DC Power Adapter
Battery Type
2x AA (Not Included)
Battery Runtime
7.2 to 15 Hours, Dependent on Settings and Battery Type
AC/DC Power Adapter
5 VDC at 1 A (Not Included)
Physical
Mounting Options
1/4"-20 Female
Dimensions
2.6 x 1.7 x 5.3" / 66.8 x 42.1 x 135.2 mm (Recorder)
2.6 x 1.6 x 2.4" / 65.5 x 41 x 62.2 mm (X/Y Mic)
Weight
6.2 oz / 176 g (Recorder)
3.3 oz / 94 g (Mic)

Zoom H5 Reviews

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