Zoom H5 Handy Recorder

The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder is a portable, multitrack audio recording device designed for musicians, filmmakers, podcasters, and sound designers. Known for its versatility, superior sound quality, and modular design, the H5 offers a flexible recording solution for capturing professional-grade audio in various environments. With its ability to record up to four tracks simultaneously and compatibility with Zoom’s interchangeable microphone system, the H5 is a highly adaptable tool for both studio and field use.

Key Features:

1. Multitrack Recording:

• Simultaneous Track Recording: The H5 allows you to record up to 4 tracks at once, making it ideal for capturing live performances, interviews, and complex audio setups.
• High-Resolution Audio: It supports recording in WAV format at up to 24-bit/96kHz, delivering pristine audio quality suitable for professional use.

2. Interchangeable Microphone Capsules:

• Modular Microphone System: The H5 is compatible with Zoom's interchangeable microphone capsules, including X/Y, mid-side, and shotgun microphones, allowing users to tailor the recorder to different recording environments.
• Included X/Y Capsule: The H5 comes with an X/Y stereo microphone capsule that captures audio with a natural stereo field, perfect for live performances and environmental sound recording. The capsule can be swapped out for other Zoom mic capsules to suit specific needs.

3. User-Friendly Interface:

• Large LCD Display: The backlit LCD display provides clear visibility for monitoring levels, settings, and recording status, even in low-light conditions.
• Dedicated Gain Controls: Each input channel has its own dedicated gain knob, allowing users to make quick and precise level adjustments during recording sessions.
• Physical Buttons: Easy-to-use transport controls (Record, Play, Stop, etc.) offer a smooth workflow for on-the-go recording.

4. Input and Output Flexibility:

• Multiple Inputs: The H5 includes two XLR/TRS combo inputs with independent gain control and phantom power for condenser microphones. This makes it easy to connect various external microphones or instruments.
• Line Outputs and Headphone Monitoring: The H5 offers a headphone output for real-time monitoring and a line output for connecting to cameras, mixers, or PA systems.
• USB Audio Interface: The H5 doubles as a USB audio interface for your computer or iOS device, making it perfect for recording directly to your DAW for podcasts, voiceovers, or music production.

5. Modular and Expandable Design:

• Interchangeable Capsules: The Zoom H5's modular system allows users to switch out microphone capsules for different recording environments. This gives users maximum flexibility, whether they need an X/Y, mid-side, or shotgun configuration.
• Expandable Inputs: By using the EXH-6 XLR/TRS combo input capsule (sold separately), you can expand the H5's input capacity, making it possible to connect up to 4 XLR inputs for multi-mic recording setups.

6. Onboard Processing:

• Built-in Effects: The H5 offers basic onboard effects such as compression and limiting, helping to manage dynamic range and prevent audio clipping during recording.
• Low-Cut Filter: A selectable low-cut filter helps reduce background noise like wind or air conditioning hum, making your recordings cleaner.

7. Durable and Portable Design:

• Rugged Build: Designed for portability, the H5 is lightweight yet durable enough to withstand field use, making it an excellent choice for location recordings or outdoor shoots.
• Power Supply: The H5 runs on 2 AA batteries, providing up to 15 hours of continuous recording time, or it can be powered via an AC adapter (sold separately).

Specifications:

• Model: Zoom H5 Handy Recorder
• Recording Format: WAV (up to 24-bit/96kHz), MP3
• Inputs: 2 XLR/TRS combo inputs, modular mic capsule input
• Outputs: Stereo line output, headphone output, USB audio interface
• Built-in Effects: Compression, limiting, low-cut filter
• Display: Backlit LCD screen
• Power Supply: 2 x AA batteries or AC adapter (AD-17)
• Dimensions: Approx. 2.66 x 5.25 x 1.66 inches (67.6 x 135.2 x 42.1 mm)
• Weight: Approx. 0.6 lbs (280 g) without batteries
• Color: Black

In the Box:

• Zoom H5 Handy Recorder
• XYH-5 X/Y Microphone Capsule
• USB Cable
• Foam Windscreen
• Case
• 2 AA Batteries
• Quick Start Guide

Conclusion:

The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder is a versatile, portable, and powerful tool that can handle a wide range of recording tasks. Whether you're a musician looking to capture live performances, a filmmaker in need of high-quality field recordings, or a podcaster recording interviews on the go, the H5 offers the flexibility and performance to meet your needs. With its interchangeable microphone capsules, professional-grade audio quality, and intuitive controls, the H5 stands as one of the most reliable and adaptable portable recorders on the market.