Zoom, the renowned Japanese audio manufacturer, launches the next generation of three of the company’s classic recorders, the Zoom H1, H4, and H6. Following their predecessors, the new trio now carries the ‘essential’ suffix and includes the same general ports and features as their respective forerunners. These iterations come with 32-bit float recording capability, eliminating the need to monitor and adjust gain levels. The H1essential is the entry-level model, sporting an X/Y mic module capable of handling up to 120 dB and an analog 3.5mm input. It features a monochrome OLED unit for indication and can record two channels of 32-bit. The H4essential follows the popular dual XLR-1/4″ TRS Combo Inputs with preamps and an X/Y mic module. The X/Y module on the H4essential will handle up to 130 dB. As its name suggests, four channels are available and there’s a niche color LCD for monitoring. The H6essential ups the game by adding two more channels for a total of six. The X/Y module here will handle up to 135 dB and is also hot-swappable. 32-bit float taking over It’s been a long time since NAB 2019 and the first introduction of the Zoom F6, a revolutionary field recorder. Since then, many other companies and products have hopped on the 32-bit train, providing sound personnel with an impeccable dynamic range. Zoom launched several 32-bit float recorders, and now this trio covers the entire field recording segment with these classics updated. Physical design All three essential products feature a rather futuristic,...
Published By: CineD - Monday, 29 January, 2024