Janice R. Andrews
Zoom unveiled its newest Essential series at NAMM 2024, which includes the H1, H4, and H6 field recorders. This is a big step. With their bigger screens, 32-bit float technology, and other improvements, these new models are meant to completely change the way that music is recorded. I’ve been a committed Zoom user for almost ten years, and I’m excited to share my observations and explore the updated Essential series.
Design Modifications:
Although the Essential series represents a technology advance, some aficionados might regard the modifications to be a divergence from the traditional H series appearance. Reactions to the blue buttons have been divided; some believe it detracts from the premium appearance. The Essential series claims to offer a more contemporary user experience in spite of these worries.
Common Features:
32-bit float technology, which ensures hassle-free recording without the need for regular level changes, is a prominent feature shared by all three models (H1, H4, and H6). Users may now connect their recorders as USB microphones or audio interfaces to a variety of devices thanks to the switch from a tiny USB connector to a USB-C port, which improves connectivity choices. Furthermore, the models provide sufficient capacity for recordings by supporting SD cards up to 1TB (SDXC).
Improved Accessibility:
Zoom has gone above and above by including blue soft touch buttons for noiseless operation and considering accessibility while creating the Essential Series. Through the built-in speaker or headphones, users may explore the menu by listening to audio explanations that are accessible in several languages. The inclusion of several outputs, a 3.5mm mic/input, and built-in speakers expands the connectivity possibilities for a range of recording situations.
Specific Features of the Model:
- Zoom H1 Essential:
- The H1 Essential keeps the integrated X/Y microphone and captures audio up to 120 dB SPL while maintaining the 2-in/2-out configuration.
- The H1 Essential has an integrated X/Y microphone and records audio at up to 120 dB SPL while keeping the 2-in/2-out configuration.
- Keeping the 2-in/2-out configuration, the H1 Essential records sound at up to 120 dB SPL and keeps the onboard X/Y microphone.
- A 3.5mm mic/line input and output are included, which offers flexibility for various recording configurations.
- Setting reference points when recording is made easier with the addition of a new marker button.
- Zoom H4 Essential:
- With two XLR/TRS combo inputs that allow +4dBu professional line level input and phantom power, these inputs have ultra-clean preamps.
- This model has two XLR/TRS combo inputs that offer professional line level input at +4dBu and phantom power thanks to ultra-clean preamps.
- The audio recorded by the onboard X/Y microphones reaches an astounding 130 dB SPL, which is comparable to a rock concert.
- Improves connectivity choices by being fully compatible with the BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter, which is offered separately.
- Zoom H6 Essential:
- This flagship model offers six tracks overall and has four XLR/TRS combo inputs with ultra-clean Zoom preamps and a new X/Y microphone based on the 3.0 capsule system with 32-bit float capability.
- Two more XLR inputs are available due to compatibility with the new EXH-6e capsule, which benefits podcasters.
- A low-profile arrangement is possible with a detachable capsule option.
First Impressions:
The Essential series, especially the H6, offers a good feature upgrade. Zoom’s audio recording collection now includes the Essential series, which is an intriguing addition because to its better usefulness and technical breakthroughs, even though the appearance changes may not appeal to everyone.
Pricing and Availability:
In Q2 2024, the new Zoom Essential series is scheduled to launch. The prices of the H1 Essential, H4 Essential, and H6 Essential are set at 129.71€, 260.61€, and 391.51€, respectively. A better recording experience with these cutting-edge field recorders is coming soon.
