Among the highly popular handheld recorders from Zoom, the H2n (currently priced at $125 on Amazon) has always been regarded as an underestimated but powerful tool, thanks to its multi-microphone setup that provides various useful pickup patterns. Now, Zoom has introduced the H2essential (or H2e) as part of its newly updated 'essential' series. This model features 32-bit float audio, a higher-resolution color LCD, and an upgraded 3-mic array with a new pickup configuration. Before diving into the details, let’s briefly explain 32-bit float audio and its benefits.
Understanding 32-bit Float Audio
In traditional 16-bit or 24-bit audio recording, it is essential to set the right gain before recording to avoid missing quieter sounds or experiencing distortion when the audio levels peak. However, with 32-bit float audio, the dynamic range is significantly expanded, reducing the chance of losing soft or loud recordings. This means that adjustments can be made later on, prior to converting to 24-bit for the final mix. This technology is particularly beneficial for filmmakers and for outdoor recordings in unpredictable and noisy settings. For more information about this technology, continue reading here.
Features of the H2e
The H2e is equipped with three internal microphones: two cardioid mics positioned at the front and back, and one bi-directional mic that captures sound from the sides. A newly designed top-mounted button interface allows users to select either the front or rear mics, or both, along with adjusting the stereo width to 90°, 120°, or mono. This results in a total of nine pickup patterns, making it suitable for various applications, such as recording solo musicians, ensembles, interviews, or podcasts.
Additionally, users can combine the front microphone with an external mic through the 3.5 mm input for ambient sound recordings and sound design. The built-in mixer allows for individual channel level adjustments, and a mid-side recording mode permits stereo width adjustments during post-production.
Display and Connectivity
The 1.3-inch full-color LCD screen enables users to monitor the waveforms of each channel. There are also dedicated buttons for accessing the mixer, applying low-cut filters, and inserting marker points in recordings for easier editing.
The H2e can function as a USB microphone (or audio interface when an external mic and headphones are connected) for streaming, video calls, or music production. It can also record directly onto its microSD card (supporting SDXC up to 2 TB) while being used in this manner. Additionally, it can connect to a smartphone via USB-C or to a camera using the 3.5 mm headphone output.
Practical Design
For added convenience, Zoom has included a small speaker in the H2e for quick playback of recordings, as well as a standard tripod mounting thread. This portable recorder can be powered by two AA batteries for up to 11 hours (or 4 hours when using both the onboard and an external mic) or via USB bus power.
The Zoom H2essential handheld recorder is priced at $170 and is expected to start shipping by late October, although pre-orders are already available at retailers like Adorama and B&H Photo. For those looking for a simpler XY stereo recording option, the Zoom H1essential is available for $100, while the Zoom H4essential, priced at $200, offers 4-channel recording with additional XLR inputs.
