Zoom has unveiled the H2essential, updating the beloved H2n model with exciting new features that cater to musicians, filmmakers, and streamers. With its newly incorporated 32-bit float audio and a bright color LCD for waveform monitoring, the H2essential raises the bar for handheld recorders. Priced at $170 and available for pre-order, this device is designed to capture high-quality audio in a variety of settings.
The H2n already had a strong reputation for versatility, thanks to its multi-mic configuration. Now, the H2essential continues this legacy with advanced features like 32-bit float audio, a technology that provides an immense dynamic range. This means you won’t lose quiet sounds or suffer from audio distortion during loud noises. It’s a game-changer for anyone working in unpredictable or noisy environments, making post-production adjustments a breeze.
What’s new with the H2essential? The recorder houses three internal microphones: two cardioid mics facing the front and rear, and one bi-directional mic covering the sides. This enables multiple pickup patterns, offering a total of nine different configurations for various recording scenarios, from solo performances and musical ensembles to interviews and podcasts. You can even mix an external mic with the internal front mic, perfect for ambient recordings and sound design.
The user-friendly interface includes top-mounted controls for selecting the desired pickup pattern and adjusting the stereo width between 90°, 120°, and mono. There’s also an onboard mixer for fine-tuning individual channel levels.
One standout feature is the 1.3-inch full-color LCD, which allows you to monitor waveforms in real-time. Other practical features include dedicated buttons for the onboard mixer, a low-cut filter, and the ability to add markers in recordings for simplified editing.
The H2essential isn’t just a standalone recorder; it can double up as a USB microphone or audio interface when connected to a computer. This makes it ideal for streaming, video calls, and music production. It can also connect to smartphones via USB-C or cameras via a 3.5 mm headphone output, adding to its versatility.
Portability is a key feature, with a built-in speaker for quick playback and a standard tripod mounting thread for hands-free recording. You can power the H2essential with two AA batteries for up to 11 hours or via USB bus power for extended sessions.
While the H2essential is priced at $170, it’s expected to start shipping by late October. It’s available for pre-order from major retailers. For those looking for simpler options, the Zoom H1essential at $100 offers basic XY stereo recording, while the $200 H4essential includes 4-channel recording with additional XLR inputs.
Embrace this new era of handheld recording with the Zoom H2essential, poised to set new standards in the world of audio capture. Whether you’re a musician, a filmmaker, or a content creator, this updated recorder has something to offer you.
