NAMM 2024: Zoom has launched the Essential collection, three (H1, H4, and H6) new field recorders with 32-bit float, greater show, and extra.
As some individuals know, I’m a long-time Zoom buyer. I’ve been utilizing the H6 field recorder for recordings at commerce gala’s, within the studio and additionally for field recording for nearly ten years. One of my favourite units.
In the previous few months, Zoom has upgraded extra and extra merchandise in its portfolio to 32-bit know-how. The H collection was omitted to date. Until NAMM 2024!
Zoom Essential Series
In time for NAMM 2024, Zoom upgraded its in style H collection field recorders. Honestly, Zoom: I’m a bit irritated by the design. The basic look that the H collection had is gone.
In my opinion, they failed a bit to realize a contemporary look. The blue buttons, particularly, make the new H Essential collection look cheaper than the OGs. I already miss the basic H6 design. However, I would love the new nice options in my outdated, rocked H6.
All three fashions (H1, H4, H6) have some issues in frequent. Starting from the spotlight: 32-bit know-how. With 32-bit float recording, you by no means have to regulate ranges.
They additionally now host a USB-C port as a substitute of the mini USB, permitting you to attach it as a USB mic or USB audio interface to your PC, Mac, iOS, or Android gadget. Plus, they share the SD card for as much as 1TB (SDXC) of recordings and are battery-operated.
Another new addition are the newly developed blue mushy contact buttons for quiet operation. Also, Zoom has designed the Essential Series with accessibility for the construct and visually impaired. Navigate the menu with audible descriptions (English, German, French, Spanish…) by way of the built-in speaker or headphones.
Built-in audio system for fast playback of your recordings, 3.5mm mic/enter, and outputs providing extra connectivity are additionally onboard. But there are variations.
Zoom H1 Essential
Like the unique H1, the new H1 Essential stays a 2-in/2-out field recorder with an onboard X/Y microphone, capturing clear audio as much as 120 dB SPL. Then, it comes once more with the helpful 3.5mm mic/line enter for lavalier microphones and the 3,5mm output for routing out the sign to cameras.
A new devoted marker button lets you set reference factors immediately whereas recording.
Zoom H4 Essential
The H4 Essential options the 2 XLR/TRS combo inputs primarily based on Zoom’s ultra-clean preamps that assist phantom energy and +4dBu skilled line stage enter. I
The onboard X/Y microphones can seize sound as much as a thunderous 130 dB SPL, equal to a rock live performance. So you get 4 tracks in whole on which you’ll document. H4 Essential is absolutely appropriate with the BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter (separate buy), permitting you to pair it with iOS units. It’s a disgrace that Bluetooth isn’t included within the {hardware}.
A new vivid full-color LCD display makes it straightforward to navigate by way of the H4essential’s menu and capabilities.
Zoom H6 Essential
Last however not least is the flagship from the H6 Essential collection. It options 4 XLR/TRS combo inputs (ultra-clean Zoom preamps) and a new X/Y microphone primarily based on the next-generation 3.0 capsule system with 32-bit float assist. It provides you a complete of six tracks.
Additionally, you should buy the new EXH-6e capsule, providing you with two further XLR inputs, good for podcasters. The new H6 Essential additionally has a new show that contains a waveform show and provides you full management over the built-in mixer. It’s additionally absolutely appropriate with the BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter.
A new choice can be to detach the capsule and use the included cap for a low-profile setup.
The new H6 is lastly right here. A pleasant, stable replace when it comes to options. The solely factor that doesn’t actually attraction to me is the design of the Essential collection.
The new Zoom Essential collection might be accessible in Q2 2024. The H1 Essential for 129,71€, H4 Essential for 260,61€, and the H6 Essential for 391,51€
More data right here: Zoom
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