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, all-black angular design. I don’t know about their radar signature, but they seem quite stealthy and unobtrusive. All three feature new screens. The H1essential gets a bright monochromatic OLED and the other two get larger color LCD units. All three work with a single microSDXC card (up to 1TB), and can be powered by an AC adapter (included), USB-C, or batteries. The essential series will also incorporate unique accessibility features in the form of an audible menu for the visually impaired.
This is the most basic product in the series. Featuring an X/Y mic with a single 3.5mm input and a headphone output, this compact device can be used as a field recorder, mainly aimed at ambient sound. It will also work as an on-camera mic, elevating sound and recording quality while maintaining compactness. Two AAA batteries will support around 10 hours of recording.
Following the popular H4 design, this field recorder offers two XLR-1/4″ TRS Combo Inputs with preamps, and both can provide phantom power. On the ‘Front’ side, we’ll find the X/Y microphones with the color LCD and controls occupying the top panel. A pair of AA batteries will enable 9-20 hours of recording, depending on the battery type. An optional BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter will add the option of a remote control should you include it in the package. The H4essential is a versatile device. A single operator will find its simplicity and wide dynamic range invaluable. A soundperson or an audio professional may also use it in the field and on set, combining compactness with essential professional features.
The bigger brother of the essential triplet, the H6essential fills the gap between the H4essential and the Zoom F3, to the larger F6. With four XLR-1/4″ TRS Combo Inputs, it can take control of many different sound sources. If that’s not enough, the X/Y module is interchangeable, enabling various operating patterns such as a directional shotgun mic, two additional XLR inputs, etc. As with the H4essential, this one is also compatible with the optional BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter. Although the general design resembles the older H6 field recorder, all physical gain dials are missing. This looks like a poor design decision until one recalls that 32-bit recording doesn’t require many gain adjustments. The H6essential is operated by four AA batteries. Operation time varies depending on the number of channels recorded, phantom power, and other variants. For reference, it will provide about 18 hours with four AA Alkaline batteries, 2 channels, recording, and a built-in mic.
Who are they for?
The new essential line is a fairly straightforward upgrade to the popular H1, H4n, and H6. They will do about the same with the (significant) added bonus of 32-bit float recording. If you are using one of their predecessors and want a higher dynamic range, just go for the respective successor.
Alternatives
The market holds some great 32-bit recorders. The TASCAM Portacapture X8 and X6 offers similar features to the H6essential and the H4essential respectively. The TASCAM includes a larger screen, especially on the X8. This screen has its pros and cons. While very nice to operate, it is prone to scratches and can break. It will also draw more battery power. The Portacapture X8 is also significantly pricier at $400 compared to the Zoom H6essential, competitively priced at $300. As for the mid-line field recorder – the TASCAM Portacapture X6 is priced at $300 compared to the H4essential at $200. Aside from the price, the X6 uses two XLR ports compared to the H4essential’s combo inputs. In terms of price/performance, it seems like a clear victory for the new Zooms. If 32-bit recording isn’t necessary, the older 24-bit models may save some money and are still available.
Price and availability
The Zoom essential series recorders are available for pre-order. The H1essential will cost $99, the H4essential will cost $199 and the H6essential will set you back $299.
Will you opt for the new essential recorders? Will they replace their direct predecessors or are you upgrading from another brand? Is 32-bit recording the future, or is it just a gimmick to you? Let us know in the comments.
