This is another neat and handy device from those clever chaps at Zoom! Essentially, the H2 handy Recorder is a high quality stereo microphone that records WAVs or MP3s straight onto standard SD flash memory - just like the stuff you put into your digital camera. Plus, as it's powered by two AA batteries (and isn't much larger than an iPod), it can be a taken anywhere, making it perfect for recording those killer rehearsals and impromptu "once-in-a-lifetime" jams, podcasts, or even interviews and conferences.
The unit has a large LCD screen and simple arrangement of just seven buttons whereby all the onboard settings can be managed, including microphone setup, adjustment of the recording level, access to the on-board guitar & bass tuner, or simply activation of the USB connection for transfer of recordings.
The H2 also provides the choice of different microphone positions at 90° Front Cardoid, 120° Rear Cardoid and 360° Polar patterns. You can pre-set the quality of the recording, too - from 64kbps Stereo MP3 for maximum recording time, right up to 24-bit 96Khz 4-Channel Surround WAV format for the times when outstanding quality is critical - or anywhere inbetween.
A 512Mb card is included with the unit for up to 17.8 hours recording, however the H2 can accept cards up to a storage capability of 4Gb. Gain control can be either set manually or automatically using AGC (Auto Gain Control) so that optimum recording quality is achieved. In a similar vein is the Auto Start function, which ensures that the H2 is always in record standby mode waiting to record at a moment’s notice.
In addition, for outdoor recordings there’s a low cut filter that may be useful to eliminate wind noise, whilst the internal software can even provide “time stamp” and track marking functionality for recognition, storage and editing of audio files.
On the side of the H2 is a headphone/line-out mini-jack interface, a volume adjustment control and the input for the optional A/C power adapter. On the opposite edge you’ll find a line-in and an external microphone input, along with a Mic Gain sensitivity switch that can be set at Low/Medium/High. The USB interface also resides here and is the usual A to B type for hassle-free connection to your PC or Mac.
Although small in size, the H2 is full to the brim with features we could all use on an everyday basis - pick one up today, and forget about all the hassles associated with recording outside of the studio... forever!
In the box:
- Zoom H2 Recorder
- Desktop Stand
- Mic Clip Adapter
- Wind Screen
- Pair of Earbuds
- USB Cable
- Stereo Y Cable (for connection to RCA/Phono inputs)
- Mains Adapter
