6 best digital zoom recorders

Product description

Zoom H1n Handy Recorder (2018 Model)

• Streamlined Body with matte finish and newly designed protective mic enclosure
• Built-in stereo condenser microphones in 90-Degree x/Y format
• One-touch button controls.Battery life (alkaline batteries): Approximately 10 hours (continuous recording time using built-in mic, 44.1 kHz/16-bit)
• Localized and intuitive menus for easy operation.Input impedance: 2 kΩ
• Playback Speed Control, Voice Emphasize Filter, and Stereo overdubbing functions

User questions & answers

Question:	When you connect a mic into the input line. Can you mix it with the built-in mics
Answer:	No, but ZOOM makes (and Amazon sells) another model that will record FOUR channels --- the "same" two built-in mics PLUS two LINE/XLR jacks: the H5 (which I also own). (See here: http://amzn.to/2l8U4nC) (that's a lowercase L and N)
Question:	How can I use the zoom h1 as a dslr mic.? If it is possible do I have to press record on the zoom h1 and and press the record button on the dslr whe
Answer:	Just a note about recording into a dslr: the bitrate and sample rate you set on the zoom doesn't affect the bitrate and sample rate recorded onto the dslr file. Your dslr always determines the bitrate and sample rate. (IE: for most Canon's that's 44khz/16 bit). The audio quality from the zoom will be better than your on-camera mic simply because the microphone itself is higher quality, but don't expect to be recording 96khz/24 bit audio straight into your dslr's .mov files!
Question:	can I record a piece to video with the Zoom recording my voice and then synch it to video
Answer:	Sure thing. I use mine as a primary aiduo recorder for my Nikon D5300. I use the sound from the camera as areference track and then stnc the wave file from the Zoom to the video using Final Cut X. Works perfect with much better sound quality.
Question:	What does this device actually record onto - some sort of a memory card or flash drive? I'm looking for something that will record at least 6 hours
Answer:	You get roughly 12 hours on the 2GB micro SD card included, in MP3 320kbps. Quality is excellent. If you want WAV format your looking at about 2.5 hours with the stock card. Larger cards are cheap though so it's upgradable.

Product features

Zoom H1n

The evolution in portable recording continues with the Zoom H1n. Designed for creators of all kinds, the H1n boasts built-in 90-degree X/Y stereo mics, advanced one-touch button controls, and distortion-free recording. It’s powerful enough for professional projects yet small enough to fit into your pocket. It’s the ultimate.

take-anywhere recorder for every creators gig bag.

Built-in 90˚ X/Y Microphones

The H1n features built-in X/Y stereo microphones for capturing high-quality stereo sound. The mic itself covers a wide area while emphasizing the center of the sound field, allowing creators to record crystal clear audio in almost any setting.

Record Anytime, Anywhere

Thanks to the H1n’s compact and rugged design, it can record high-quality sound just about anywhere. It features a newly designed mic enclosure to protect the X/Y mics from wear and tear, so you can put it your pocket, toss it in your backpack, or take it out in the field.

Distortion-Free Recording

An advanced onboard limiter enables the H1n to record distortion-free signal up to 120 dB SPL. Capture concerts, band practice, or other loud environments without compromising audio quality.

Enhanced Playback and Control

Playback Speed Control lets you easily transcribe interviews. For musicians, the A-B repeat comes in handy when you are learning and rehearsing. The overdub feature lets you add new sounds over existing recordings. You can also set the H1n to auto-record, pre-record, and self-time.

Easy-to-Use Menus and Controls

Graphic LCD display, one-touch button controls, and localized menus make the H1n perfect for both entry-level and professional creators. Quickly record song ideas, audio for film projects, lectures or meetings, podcast interviews, and more—all with exceptional audio quality.

Product description

THE ZOOM H4N PRO - Record cleaner, clearer, and closer than ever before. Brilliant Four-Track Audio Recording for Music, Film, Podcasting, and Beyond At Zoom they're always developing new ideas to improve the performance and function of the Handy Recorders. With the new H4n Pro, Zoom has taken everything creators love about the H4n and brought it to the next level. The H4n Pro isn't just improved, it's superior in every way. With advanced X/Y microphones, incredibly natural-sounding preamps, and a super-low noise floor, you can record everything from the Indy 500 to the fluttering of a hummingbird with extraordinary realism. Welcome to the new gold standard in field recording. Four-track simultaneous recording High-fidelity mic preamps Built-in X/Y stereo microphones, adjustable between 90deg and 120deg Record up to 140 dB SPL with X/Y microphones Two mic/line level inputs with XLR/TRS combo connectors Stereo 1/8" Mic In mini phone jack +24 or +48V phantom power for main inputs and Plug-in power (2. 5V) Applications The Filmmaker's Favorite The H4n Pro is packed with features that make it perfect for capturing audio for film. The onboard X/Y microphones deliver spectacular stereo imaging, and two combo input jacks allow you to use your favorite microphones as well. It also includes a head-phone/line out. Onboard Mid-Side decoding

• Four-channel recording up to 24-bit, 96 kHz. Built-in stereo X/Y microphones, up to 140 dB SPL
• 2 XLR/TRS inputs with locking connectors. Records directly to SD/SDHC cards up to 32 GB
• 4-in/2-out USB audio interface. Monaural speaker: 400 mW 8 Ω
• Line/phone-LINE Output load impedance- 10 kΩ or more. LINE rated output level: -10 dBu. PHONE- 20 mW + 20 mW (into 32Ω load)
• All Black Finish

User questions & answers

Question:	Are there any significant differences between the 2020 model (black) and the previous ones in terms of quality of recording, self noise, etc
Answer:	The audio specs are identical; the only difference is cosmetic.
Question:	Incredible device. getting a lot of wind artifacts and damanged section of audio (stereo/wav/built in mics). tips to eliminate
Answer:	Have you tried a windscreen?
Question:	If this is the 2020 model, why are most of the questions/reviews from years ago
Answer:	This is a old version but is a great one. It does the job.
Question:	What is the lowest Frequency this recorder can capture with the onboard mics
Answer:	This is off the manual: Built-in mics Directionality Unidirectional Sensitivity −45dB/1Pa at 1kHz Input gain −16 dB – +51 dB Maximum sound pressure input 140 dBspl EXT MIC Input gain −16 dB – +51 dB Input impedance 2 kΩ or more Supports plug-in power INPUT 1 and 2 balanced input Connector XLR (pin 2 hot) Input gain −16 dB – +43 dB Input impedance 3.0 kΩ or more Maximum permissible input level −6 dBu EIN –120 dBu or less INPUT 1 and 2 unbalanced input Connector Standard phone Input gain −30 dB – +32 dB Input impedance 470 kΩ or more Maximum permissible input level +2 dBu Outputs LINE/PHONE stereo mini jack LINE output load impedance 10 kΩ or more LINE rated output level −10 dBu PHONE 20 mW + 20 mW (into 32Ω load) Built-in speaker 400mW 8Ω mono speaker Phantom power 48 V, 24 V, OFF USB USB 2.0 High Speed

Product features

H4N PRO BLACK

Advanced X/Y microphones, incredibly natural-sounding preamps, and built-in cutting-edge effects make the H4n Pro the ultimate portable 4 track recorder for musicians.

Chick's Ultimate Handheld Recording Studio

With onboard X/Y microphones, two combo input jacks, overdubbing, effects, and more, the H4n Pro is packed with features that allows musicians to create songs from start to finish.

Chick Corea | 23-Time Grammy Award Winner

Take Your Live Show Home

The H4n Pro is capable of recording the loudest and heaviest performances, up to 140 dB SPL without distortion. Take a line-level* stereo feed from the mixing console and capture room ambience with the X/Y microphones.

* +4dBu line-level is not supported.

Marcus Gilmore | Drummer, Chick Corea Trio | Blue Note NYC

Professional Grade Preamps

The H4n Pro features high performance, low-noise mic preamps with recording resolutions up to 24-bit/96 kHz. The improved noise floor (-120 dBu EIN) captures audio at lower volumes with less noise and fewer artifacts.

USB Audio Interface

Functioning as a 2-input/2-output USB audio interface for PC or Mac, the H4n Pro enables you to record directly to your computer.

Stereo Mode

Stereo Mode can be used with the built-in X/Y microphones or external mics, and is convenient for recording live performances, acoustic instruments, and more.

4-Channel Mode

4-Channel Mode records with the built-in X/Y mics and two external inputs to capture live room sound and a stereo board feed at the same time.

MTR Mode

Multi-Track Mode turns your device into a four-track studio, with built-in effects, overdub functions, and the ability to work with previously recorded sound files.

Product description

The R65 and R80 feature a custom 6. 8-inch 2 Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter that responds to the subtlest wave forms and the highest frequencies. This allows you to hear the "air" and the greater sense of space that is characteristic of audiophile recordings. The R series' transparent and highly accurate sound makes them ideal for use in both commercial and home recording studios as well as broadcast and post-production environments.

• Digital recorder with 16-track playback and 8-track simultaneous recording utilizing Secure Digital (SD) memory
• 16/24-bit/44.1kHz linear PCM recording in WAV format
• Built-in stereo condenser microphones
• Includes 1GB SD card and supports cards up to 32GB SDHC

User questions & answers

Question:	This may be a dumb question but can I record a track, then play it back while recording another track
Answer:	Definitely! 16 times/tracks. You can also do 2 tracks simultaneously, and if you have software on your computer, you can send two simultaneous tracks realtime into the software.
Question:	Can I make one recording of my band playing several songs in a set, then mix down each song individually for tracks on a CD
Answer:	I do not have personal experience with this, however I found a forum post from the Zoom forums that might help you:http://zoomforum.us/viewtopic.php?t=19366Basically the gist is that no, this is not directly possible. But, you can copy the entire recording several times into new projects then trim them to just the portion you want.
Question:	Can you record dry (without fx) while monitoring with fx. Such as record guitar dry, while monitoring with an internal Zoom overdrive and reverb
Answer:	Yes you can set the effects for monitoring only. I use it for vocals.
Question:	Could I link an R16 to an R
Answer:	Yes, works well. I am a drummer and use an R24 linked to an R 16. There are a few thing that you will have to work around. Over all it works well

Product features

The Zoom R8 Multitrack Recorder

The compact and versatile R8 is a great choice for home recordists and road warriors alike. Not only is it a full-featured 8-track recorder with physical faders, it's a pad sampler, a rhythm machine, and a loop-based sequencer, too-plus it can serve as a DAW control surface and audio interface. Advanced features include built-in stereo condenser microphones, dual mic/line/instrument inputs, and over 140 onboard DSP effects.

Complete control

If you use DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) software but hate mixing with a mouse, the R8 provides the perfect solution. It can act as a full-featured control surface for popular DAWs such as Cubase, Logic, and GarageBand, adding real faders and transport/status buttons that streamline the process of creating the perfect mix.

Multitrack recording has never been easier

The R8 provides eight tracks for recording and playback in full fidelity WAV format, making it ideal for both professional production and for use as a musical sketchpad. Battery operation allows for field recording and enables you to capture your ideas quickly. You can connect external microphones, instruments, or line-level sources directly to the R8, or use the built-in stereo mic pair for minimal setup. When your multitrack recording is complete, you can use the R8's internal mixer, complete with physical faders, equalization, panning, and built-in effects—including amp models and mastering effects like multi-band compression—to create a stereo mix with studio-quality sound.

Create music any way you like

However you choose to build your musical productions, you'll find the R8 to be the ultimate creative tool.

Eight velocity-sensitive pads enable you to trigger samples, drum sounds, or loops—you can even create your own custom samples and loops from recorded audio tracks. Quantization and time-stretching can be applied to ensure perfect synchronization, and the onboard audio sequencer allows step entry when absolute precision is required.

The R8 also provides more than 140 great-sounding DSP effects, including guitar amp, bass amp, and mic preamp models, plus mastering algorithms such as multi-band compression. Effects can be applied during recording and mixdown, or can be used for playback only. In addition, the R8's USB port allows it to act as a 2-input/2-output interface for DAWs such as the Cubase LE.

Product description

Zoom H2n Handheld Portable Digital Recorder

• Over 20 hours of operation using two standard AA batteries
• Key Control, A-B Repeat, File Dividing, Normalize, MP3 Post-Encode, Marker and Surround Mixer
• Additional functions include Lo-cut Filter, Compressor/Limiter, Auto Gain, Pre-Rec, Auto-Rec, Tuner, Metronome, Variable Speed Playback
• Records in WAV up to 24-bit/96kHz and MP3 up to 320kbps
• File types supported: MAV,MP3

User questions & answers

Question:	I thought this had an AC power adapter so you didn't have to run on batteries. Is that true, or just batteries
Answer:	I've always used it with batteries. However, I did purchase the Zoom Accessory Pack for the H2n Portable Recorder which includes among other things an AC power adapter. Available at Amazon for $29.25.
Question:	This may seem like a silly question but i will be video taping using a camera while using this Zoom H2n to record. So how do I sync the 2 together and will it be a perfectly synced piece of video
Answer:	This is done in post. You have several options: 1) Use an audio/video sync app. Red Giant's Plural Eyes 4, is what I use and it is SUPER easy to use 2) Use your video editing app if it supports it. Adobe Premiere will do this sync, but not quite as good as Plural Eyes 3) Do a "Clap" at the beginning of each clip when recording, and manually sync them yourself where you see the large peak from the clap hope this helps
Question:	Can you get sound quality that's good enough for podcasts or radio
Answer:	If you attach a 2nd mic to filter background noise you will get excellent quality sound. By itself it's pretty good but, it will pick up any background noise so just don't podcast where there is a lot of that.
Question:	u mentioned coming with all accessories. do you mean the zoom aph2n accssory pack? thx
Answer:	Comes with SD card, fome wind cover, table top stand. Microphone adapter for microphone stands, batteries, USB cable, AV cables.

Product features

The Zoom H2n Handy Recorder

Zoom's H2n Handy Recorder is the only portable device to come with five built-in microphones and four different recording modes: X/Y, Mid-Side, 2-channel surround and 4-channel surround. The H2n can handle just about anything from live concert and rehearsal recording to location videography. It's also a great choice for generating lasting audio documents of important events like lectures, meetings, weddings, and parties.

Flexible inputs and outputs

The H2n offers a variety of inputs and outputs for flexibility in recording.

There's a Line In jack that can accept two channels of mic- and/or line-level signals (including microphones requiring plug-in power), as well as a stereo line out / headphone jack with a dedicated volume control. There's even a built-in speaker for fast monitoring without the need to make any connections.

In addition, the H2n's USB port allows recorded files to be imported into computer editing software such as the supplied WaveLab LE. You can even use the H2n as a 2-in/2-out audio interface or as a USB microphone.

X/Y

X/Y recording provides a great way to cover a wide area while still capturing sound sources in the center with clarity and definition. The H2n's built-in X/Y microphone provides two matched unidirectional mic elements set at a 90 degree angle relative to one another.

Mid-Side

The 'Mid' microphone element in the H2n's MS mic picks up signal coming from directly in front, while the 'Side' mics capture the sounds coming from the left and right. You can then adjust the relative level of each, either during recording or during post-production, to alter the stereo width while still maintaining perfect mono compatibility.

Surround

The H2n allows you to combine the signals from both the X/Y and MS microphones in order to create two- or four-channel surround sound recordings that capture everything you hear, not just those sounds coming from in front of you, but from all directions.

Product description

Zoom H5 handheld portable digital recorder.

• Uses a system of interchangeable input capsules that can be swapped out as easily as the lens of a camera
• Includes detachable x/Y capsule (xyh-5) with extended signal capacity and shock mounted mics for reduced handling noise
• Four-track simultaneous recording; Built-in speaker: 400mw 8 Ω mono
• Two mic/line inputs with XLR/TRS combo connectors each with selectable Phantom power and -20dB pad
• Runs on 2 AA batteries and records directly to SD/ SDHC cards up to 32GB
• Max sound pressure input: 140 dB SPL

User questions & answers

Question:	I am a new podcaster. Would someone be kind enough to explain how I would use this to interview someone over the telephone? Would skype be involved?th
Answer:	Yes, you will want to use a software like Skype or Google Voice. You can connect the headphone output of your computer to one of the H5 inputs.
Question:	If this unit is powered off and a USB cable is connected to a computer does it automatically turn on or will it stay off
Answer:	It will automatically turn on with the option to select its use as an interface or storage device...hope this helps.
Question:	Is the battery life significantly improved over the H4N? I like my H4N, but it's terrrible on phantom power for battery life
Answer:	I can't compare it to the H4n. I got about 8-10 hours on the h5 using alkalines and phantom being on for nearly all of that time. It gives very little warning when the batteries are about to go.
Question:	Judging from the pictures it looks to be made of plastic. Is this fragile or robust
Answer:	It does not have a plastic feel. If you have ever held an H4n than this will feel somewhat the same. The H5 has a slim, but sturdy feel. It's not the kind of item that would break easily. The thing with the H5 is that it is so cool looking that you're always worrying about getting a single scratch on it. Fortunately, the rubber like exterior seems to handle scratches pretty well. Highly recommend that you get a screen protector as soon as you take it out of the box. I've held both the H5 and H6 and while the H6 feels slightly heavier and more professional with all the knobs, nice looking finish and a great color screen. The H5 feels lighter, has great build quality and you are more likely to use it because it light enough to mount on a rig or carry around... Without the fear of it breaking. I've bumped it on a few corners with my rig and it has held up pretty well. The only thing that feels like plastic are the adapters, but that applies to both the H5 and H6.Hope that helps.

Product features

The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder

The compact and portable H5 gives you everything you need to create professional quality audio. It comes with a detachable stereo X/Y microphone and utilizes a system of interchangeable input capsules that allow you to choose the best mic for every situation.

Ideal for live concert and rehearsal recording as well as audio for video, the H5 is equally well-suited for podcasting, broadcasting and electronic newsgathering.

XYH-5 shockmounted X/Y mic capsule

The advanced XYH-5 provides dual matched unidirectional condenser microphones housed in an advanced shockmount to minimize vibration and handling noise-ideal for location videography and broadcasting/podcasting. In addition, the XYH-5 is designed to handle extremely loud sounds, making it the perfect choice for capturing the sound of live rock concerts and for electronic newsgathering (ENG) applications.

XYH-6 large diaphragm X/Y mic capsule

The XYH-6 allows you to do stereo X/Y recording and provides dual large diaphragm mic elements with adjustable width-choose 90 degrees for a more focused sound or 120 degrees for a wider stereo image. It''s great for recording classical music and for capturing sound effects in the field.

MSH-6 MS (Mid-Side) mic capsule

Step up to a whole new level of precision sound-shaping with the MSH-6, which contains a forward-facing, unidirectional mic (the 'Mid') and a side-facing, bi-directional mic (the 'Side'). In conjunction with the H5''s onboard MS decoder, it allows you to capture a fully mono-compatible stereo image that can actually be adjusted after recording-ideal for film, video, and television projects.

SGH-6 Shotgun mic capsule

Get all the pickup with half the length by connecting an SGH-6, which adds a professional-quality, highly directional shotgun microphone to your H5. Three elements, combined with digital signal processing, give you the highly directional pickup power of a conventional shotgun in a unit only half the size, making it optimum for recording dialogue and narration with no intrusive mic in the scene.

EXH-6 Dual XLR/TRS Combo capsule

The EXH-6 adds two more mic- or line-level inputs to your H5, allowing you to connect up to four discrete signals from external microphones, instruments, mixers, or portable music players and fully realize your creative vision.

• 【4.3 Inch High Definition Lcd Screen】 Featuring 720P high resolution,10.0MP camera technologh and precise focus, LCD digital microscopes helps you see the clear details of tiny objects easily. 4.3 inch screen provide large visual field, for easily and accurately observe, solder etc, eyes are no longer fatigue. Support capture images(JPG) and record videos(AVI).
• 【Long Working Distance & Stabler & Durable】Three time recording modes of 3, 5, 10 minutes, Adjustable stand, perfect for repair, soldering and large objects inspections etc. Rugged metal base provide stability, reduce vibration to keep your specimen in sharp focus.
• 【Complete Configuration】 8 adjustable leds lights provide ample even lighting and excellent detail and optimal clarity. Yellowish color provides better contrast, helping you see the clear details easily,32G TF Card,3000 mA rechargeable battery,Can work long hours.
• 【More Functions】2 kinds of resolutions, 7 kinds of picture quality, 5 kinds of white balance modes, adjustable exposure compensation, allowing you to observe more comprehensively.
• 【Wide Applications & Service 】 Specially designed for electronic repairs and solder(phone, PC, watch etc ), QC inspection, insect and plants observations, fabric weaving, coins and tiny electrical components inspection etc. Also, all microscopes are covered with our 7*24 Hours service, please contact us if you have any questions.

User questions & answers

Question:	Can the magnifier and screen be removed to be used separately
Answer:	Yes the screen can be removed from the arm attachment.
Question:	Does this microscope come with slides
Answer:	No. It does not come with slides, but it's a great microscope!
Question:	Can you see blood or skin cells
Answer:	No, this is a magnifier not a microscope.
Question:	Can you see a full coin
Answer:	About 3/4 " dia. max.