The H5studio is the latest in Zoom’s Handy recorder range. It offers four-track recording, 32-bit float recording and the largest ever mics on a Handy Recorder.
Design
The H5studio Handy Recorder follows the form factor of other popular Zoom recorders. It sports two mics on top in an XY stereo configuration. On the front, there is a two-inch full color display along with four dials to set the recording levels. In addition, there is a record button along with playback controls. Down the sides of the H5studio, there are additional inputs and outputs as well as more controls.
32-bit float
The H5studio Handy Recorder can capture up to six tracks of audio, four iso-track plus a stereo mix. You can choose between 32-bit float and 16/24-bit recording formats. 32-bit float audio has such a large dynamic range that you don’t need to set a recording level. No matter how loud your audio gets, the signal won’t clip. However, usually you will need to process your audio in post-production. To avoid this, the H5studio has dedicated gain knobs for 32-bit float recordings. This means you have the benefits of no clipping, but your audio won’t need post-production.
XY mics
The H5studio Handy Recorder features the largest ever microphones on a Handy Recorder. Zoom says that its 19.4 mm microphones have an incredible frequency response. They also feature a 123 dB dynamic range with 140 dB max SPL (sound pressure level).
These mics use Zoom’s new 3.0 capsule system so you can swap them out. Alternative options include a shotgun mic, dual XLR/TRS inputs and a wireless module. The H5studio’s inputs feature Zoom’s F-series preamps and dual AD converters to give your audio unmatched clarity.
Inputs and outputs
H5studio’s Handy Recorder has two XLR/TRS combo jacks on the bottom. These can provide +48v phantom power and +4 dBu line level. There is also a stereo mini jack on the side of the recorder which can provide plug-in power. The H5studio has proprietary port so you can connect an optional TCA-1 or BTA-1 timecode adapter. You can monitor your audio via a dedicated headphone output or the built-in speaker. And the H5studio has 3.5 mm line out that you can connect to your camera. Using the USB-C connection, you can use the device as a 4-in/2-out audio interface with your computer, iOS and Android devices.
Other features
The H5studio Handy Recorder offers a mono mode for recording interviews, narration and vocals. There’s also a low-cut filter to suppress low-frequency noise. You can normalize and export your audio files in 24-bit/16-bit WAV formats as well.
Also, the H5studio has a recording start tone function which is ideal for synchronizing your audio recordings with your video clips. Your recordings are saved to a microSD card up to 2TB.
Power
You can run the H5studio Handy Recorder for up to 15 hours on four AA alkaline batteries. Alternatively, you can power the device through the USB port with a power bank or optional AC adaptor.
What we think
The H5studio Handy Recorder is a powerful portable recording solution. Whether you are using the built-in mics or external sources, you can record high quality audio in 24-bit or 32-bit float quality. The capsule system is also a great way to increase the versatility of your recorder. Additionally, the recording start tone function and the option to connect a time code device makes the H5studio ideal for capturing audio for film and video use. If you are looking for a new, high-quality multi-track audio recorder, the H5studio should be on your shortlist.
Pricing and availability
The Zoom H5studio four-track Handy Recorder is available now and retails at $369.
