Zoom’s original H Series revolutionized the portable audio recording landscape by providing users with an on-the-go solution featuring high-quality stereo mic arrays and easy-to-use recording functions. Not content to rest on its laurels, the company has added three new models to the lineup: the H1essential, the H4essential, and the H6essential. All three offer 32-bit float recording capabilities and streamlined feature sets that make it even easier for content creators and musicians to get hassle-free broadcast-quality recordings anytime, anywhere.
32-Bit Float, So What?
Lately, 32-bit float recording has been getting a lot of attention in the recording community, with many manufacturers upgrading their models to add it. But this isn’t just a trendy new spec—32-bit float recording offers massive real-world benefits. Basically, the Zoom system uses two A/D converters to deliver a huge dynamic range, so you don’t have to worry about fine-tuning input levels. Signals that are digitally clipped because they were recorded too hot can be rescued with almost miraculous ease, while signals recorded at low volumes can be normalized to workable gain levels without adding additional noise. Of course, you do have to make sure your audio source isn’t too hot for the microphone capsule, but knowing you don’t have to worry about gain-staging the input level makes for a far less stressful on-set workflow. Simply hit Record and start creating; all three units support microSDXC cards up to 1TB.
Accessibility for the Visually Impaired
To allow visually impaired users to use these new H-essential recorders easily, Zoom has thoughtfully included Accessibility functionality, which provides audible assistance and descriptions to help in navigating the menus and settings. Creators can choose between several languages including English, Spanish, French, Japanese, German, Italian, or Chinese.
Three Models from Which to Choose
The H1essential provides the smallest form factor, with a built-in stereo X/Y mic array for 2-track recording. An external mic or line source can also be connected to the 3.5mm stereo input, which offers 2.5V plug-in power—great for lavalier microphones. If you need four tracks, step up to the H4essential, which also offers an improved mic array capable of handling up to 130 dB SPL, along with a pair of XLR/TRS inputs for mic and line sources. Power users will want to head straight for the H6essential, the flagship model, which features 6 tracks and a modular microphone system. It ships with the new XYH-6e stereo mic capsule, an X/Y array that can handle up to 135 dB, which is the volume equivalent to a jet plane taking off. The versatile modular mic system lets you swap out the XYH-6e for the SSH-6e stereo shotgun capsule or the EXH-6e dual XLR-TRS input module (both available separately). All the units provide vivid displays, built-in speakers, and 3.5mm output jacks to connect to cameras or headphones. Use the class-compliant USB-C ports for data transfer or livestreaming.
For more information including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out our detailed product pages for the H1essential, the H4essential, and the H6essential. Alternatively, you can drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to reply to your comments and questions.
