new H1, H4, and H6 field recorders with 32-bit

NAMM 2024: Zoom has introduced the Essential series, three (H1, H4, and H6) new field recorders with 32-bit float, bigger display, and more.

As some people know, I am a long-time Zoom customer. I have been using the H6 field recorder for recordings at trade fairs, in the studio and also for field recording for almost ten years. One of my favorite devices.

In the last few months, Zoom has upgraded more and more products in its portfolio to 32-bit technology. The H series was left out so far. Until NAMM 2024!

Zoom Essential Series

In time for NAMM 2024, Zoom upgraded its popular H series field recorders. Honestly, Zoom: I’m a little irritated by the design. The classic look that the H series had is gone.

​In my opinion, they failed a bit to achieve a modern look. The blue buttons, in particular, make the new H Essential series look cheaper than the OGs. I already miss the classic H6 design. However, I would like the new great features in my old, rocked H6.

All three models (H1, H4, H6) have some things in common. Starting from the highlight: 32-bit technology. With 32-bit float recording, you never have to adjust levels.

They also now host a USB-C port instead of the mini USB, allowing you to connect it as a USB mic or USB audio interface to your PC, Mac, iOS, or Android device. Plus, they share the SD card for up to 1TB (SDXC) of recordings and are battery-operated. 

Another new addition are the newly developed blue soft touch buttons for quiet operation. Also, Zoom has designed the Essential Series with accessibility for the build and visually impaired. Navigate the menu with audible descriptions (English, German, French, Spanish…) through the built-in speaker or headphones.

Built-in speakers for instant playback of your recordings, 3.5mm mic/input, and outputs offering more connectivity are also onboard. But there are differences.

Zoom H1 Essential

Like the original H1, the new H1 Essential remains a 2-in/2-out field recorder with an onboard X/Y microphone, capturing clean audio up to 120 dB SPL. Then, it comes again with the handy 3.5mm mic/line input for lavalier microphones and the 3,5mm output for routing out the signal to cameras. 

A new dedicated marker button allows you to set reference points instantly while recording.

Zoom H4 Essential

The H4 Essential features the two XLR/TRS combo inputs based on Zoom’s ultra-clean preamps that support phantom power and +4dBu professional line level input. I

The onboard X/Y microphones can capture sound up to a thunderous 130 dB SPL, equivalent to a rock concert. So you get four tracks in total on which you can record.  H4 Essential is fully compatible with the BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter (separate purchase), allowing you to pair it with iOS devices. It’s a shame that Bluetooth isn’t included in the hardware.

A new vivid full-color LCD screen makes it easy to navigate through the H4essential’s menu and functions. 

Zoom H6 Essential

Last but not least is the flagship from the H6 Essential series. It features four XLR/TRS combo inputs (ultra-clean Zoom preamps) and a new X/Y microphone based on the next-generation 3.0 capsule system with 32-bit float support. It gives you a total of six tracks. 

Additionally, you can purchase the new EXH-6e capsule, giving you two additional XLR inputs, perfect for podcasters. The new H6 Essential also has a new display that features a waveform display and gives you full control over the built-in mixer. It’s also fully compatible with the BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter. 

A new option is also to detach the capsule and use the included cap for a low-profile setup. 

The new H6 is finally here. A nice, solid update in terms of features. The only thing that doesn’t really appeal to me is the design of the Essential series.

The new Zoom Essential series will be available in Q2 2024. The H1 Essential for 129,71€, H4 Essential for 260,61€, and the H6 Essential for 391,51€

More information here: Zoom 

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