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The Zoom H1essential mobile audio recorder proves that high-quality two-track recordings of microphone or line signals can be achieved at an affordable price. With 32-bit float processing, manual levelling is a thing of the past – its extended dynamic range ensures seamless recording at the press of a button. For users who require only a stereo mini-jack input and the built-in 120dB SPL microphones, the H1essential can record WAV, BWF, or iXML files at up to 96kHz, and supports storage on microSD cards up to 1TB. Additional features include overdubbing capabilities and an audio guidance function that reads out menu options in multiple languages for visually impaired users. Lightweight and battery-powered, the H1essential is a versatile and convenient recording tool.
Two-track recording on the move
The Zoom H1essential captures audio via its built-in omnidirectional XY stereo microphones, capable of handling up to 120dB SPL, or through the stereo mini-jack input, which supports both line-level sources and external microphones. Recordings are stored on microSDXC cards up to 1TB or microSDHC cards up to 32GB. For monitoring, the recorder features a stereo mini-jack output that doubles as a line out. A USB-C port with high-speed USB 2.0 connectivity enables seamless file transfers to a smartphone, tablet, or computer for post-production. The recorder can also function as a USB microphone as well as supporting USB bus power. Alternatively, two AAA batteries can provide up to 10 hours of battery life. At just 92g, the lightweight H1essential features an intuitive control layout with buttons positioned below the display for easy operation. The menu provides access to features such as a low-cut filter, markers, key lock, and selectable sampling rates of 44.1, 48, or 96kHz.
For musicians and content creators
The budget-friendly Zoom H1essential provides beginners with a straightforward yet versatile feature set. With 32-bit float technology, recordings can be made without manual level adjustments, while markers can be placed during recording for easy navigation. The quick-start guide offers a clear overview of the device's functions. For podcasters, the built-in microphones allow for high-quality voice recordings on the go, with battery life lasting up to 18 hours via USB charging. Both home and project studio users can expand the capabilities of the Zoom H1essential by connecting their own recording equipment, making it an ideal solution for solo artists and bands to capture rehearsals and live performances. Content creators can use the Zoom H1essential with their cameras to capture high-quality audio for video production.
About Zoom
Founded in 1983, the Japanese company Zoom manufactures a variety of audio equipment, including a range of portable "handy" recorders as well as multi-effects processors, effects pedals, drum machines, and samplers. Over the past thirty years, the company has built a reputation for producing innovative yet affordable products based on original microchip designs. Since the Zoom-9002 (an ultra-compact multi-effects processor that can be attached to a guitar strap) was introduced in 1990, Zoom has become one of the leaders in digital audio processing.
From rehearsal room to the great outdoors
The overdubbing function enables users to record new tracks on top of existing ones, allowing a keyboard track to be laid down first, followed by guitar, and then vocals – all within the same session without erasing previous takes. For precise microphone positioning, the Zoom HRM-7 universal mount features a ball joint for optimal alignment, making it ideal for use at home or on the go. For interviews, a tabletop stand is recommended to reduce unwanted reflections, while a lavalier microphone can be connected for clear voice recordings. As a USB microphone, the Zoom H1essential is compatible with PC, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, making it a versatile tool for a variety of recording setups. For continuous power during studio sessions, the Zoom AD-17 power supply is sold separately. For outdoor use, the optional Zoom WSU-1 windshield helps minimise wind noise, while the Zoom SCU-20 carrying case ensure safe transportation.
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I bought this as an upgrade to my H1 first generation, received it today and called a saxophone playing friend to try it along loud percussions, and the "32 bits don't bother the gain just play" was immensely satisfying. We made two quick tests to find the right relative position and just peed the rec button and improvised, the result was as advertised, no clipping. Very handy recorder and an amazing upgrade to the previous generations. My friend who's also a producer and a sound engineer was pretty convinced too, and will probably get the H4essential or H6essential - despite the self noise which is not a problem in most contexts but we're sitting about a tenth of the price of a sounds device mix-pre6. This model is a must have for quick field or jam recording or backup ready to solution.
As a sound interface, unlike previous model it has dual recording and playing so it might be a cheap sound interface except it seems to be limited to 48 khz operation in this mode.
Quickly tried the overdub, it's fun and can come in handy, but only operates on 48KHz and had a few limitations. It is not destructive on the first track your overdubbing, that is it creates a new track with the overdub. Would be awesome to have two more tracks when overdubbing instead of one : the isolated overdubbed track and the mix as reference, to be able to properly mix later in a DAW.
As a hand device, even using the handle that came with the H1 accessory set, it's a bit delicate to not create noise, even squeezing a bit too tightly the handle results in heavy extra noise, the mics are very sensitive to the wind including the one when moving around, and without a pop filter you have to keep quite a distance to the mic to avoid clipping - so for short range voice either use a pop filter or external microphone, and for the wind or waving quickly the microphone from one side to another maybe a good rycote-like protection will be necessary.
Nevertheless, for my main purpose which is some girls recording and live musician recording with the least hassle, it definitely fits the goal, offer some extras and it's a huge upgrade to the previous versions. 5 stars overall, only 4 for quality because plastic, self noise and sensitivity to hand operations (no problem on a tripod) but still that's too be expected given the price tag.
I suppose it could run on a USB power bank which is great because with a 64gb card you're good for me than 21 hours of recording in 96kHz.
A perfect set of accessory would include charger/power bank/cable/tripod/bag for the recorder+accessories/adapters for mic stand/a stereo splitter cable/pop filter+adapter/foldable headphones
I bought this as an upgrade to my H1 first generation, received it today and called a saxophone playing friend to try it along loud percussions, and the "32 bits don't bother the gain just play" was immensely satisfying. We made two quick tests to find the right relative position and just peed the rec button and improvised, the result was as advertised, no clipping.
I bought this as an upgrade to my H1 first generation, received it today and called a saxophone playing friend to try it along loud percussions, and the "32 bits don't bother the gain just play" was immensely satisfying. We made two quick tests to find the right relative position and just peed the rec button and improvised, the result was as advertised, no clipping. Very handy recorder and an amazing upgrade to the previous generations. My friend who's also a producer and a sound engineer was pretty convinced too, and will probably get the H4essential or H6essential - despite the self noise which is not a problem in most contexts but we're sitting about a tenth of the price of a sounds device mix-pre6. This model is a must have for quick field or jam recording or backup ready to solution.
As a sound interface, unlike previous model it has dual recording and playing so it might be a cheap sound interface except it seems to be limited to 48 khz operation in this mode.
Quickly tried the overdub, it's fun and can come in handy, but only operates on 48KHz and had a few limitations. It is not destructive on the first track your overdubbing, that is it creates a new track with the overdub. Would be awesome to have two more tracks when overdubbing instead of one : the isolated overdubbed track and the mix as reference, to be able to properly mix later in a DAW.
As a hand device, even using the handle that came with the H1 accessory set, it's a bit delicate to not create noise, even squeezing a bit too tightly the handle results in heavy extra noise, the mics are very sensitive to the wind including the one when moving around, and without a pop filter you have to keep quite a distance to the mic to avoid clipping - so for short range voice either use a pop filter or external microphone, and for the wind or waving quickly the microphone from one side to another maybe a good rycote-like protection will be necessary.
Nevertheless, for my main purpose which is some girls recording and live musician recording with the least hassle, it definitely fits the goal, offer some extras and it's a huge upgrade to the previous versions. 5 stars overall, only 4 for quality because plastic, self noise and sensitivity to hand operations (no problem on a tripod) but still that's too be expected given the price tag.
I suppose it could run on a USB power bank which is great because with a 64gb card you're good for me than 21 hours of recording in 96kHz.
A perfect set of accessory would include charger/power bank/cable/tripod/bag for the recorder+accessories/adapters for mic stand/a stereo splitter cable/pop filter+adapter/foldable headphones
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Perfect!
trb56 23.03.2024
Got it a few weeks ago and have been testing it here and there. I am amazed of the sound quality. Recorded an orchestra rehearsal, crystal clear audio. If you don’t need a mega large recording system, consider this one. Perfect for local orchestras, bands, music college students.
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Sehr praktisch
O. Kb 29.10.2024
Sehr gute Klangqualität und sehr einfache Bedienung. Dank 32 bit float kein Übersteuern mehr. Auch als USB Mikro sehr gut zu nutzen und sehr preiswert dazu. Was will man mehr?
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