Zoom has been well known in the video crowd (and most recently in the DSLR video segment) for its killer H4n Handy Recorder, which features X/Y stereo condenser mics, four channel recording, and dual XLR inputs, among other features. The only real downer about the H4n is its price of $300.
Enter the H1. It’s $99.
While the H4n is a bargain to those who require pro-audio results, it’s a bit out of reach for many enthusiasts. The $99 H1 should remedy that problem. While the H1 doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the H4n, it takes your $100 for a heck of a ride with a similar pair of X/Y mics, WAV recording at 96kHz/48kHz/44.1kHz at 16-bit or 24-bit, and 10 hours of recording time out of a single AA battery.
It’s got no XLR inputs, but you can attach an external mic with a 1/8″ input. That should work well with a shotgun mic situated atop your Rebel T2i or other DSLR video camera.
You should be able to find the Zoom H1 at popular retailers by July 30 for $99.
More details and pics below.
Zoom H1 Press Release
Available July 30: Zoom’s H1 Handy Recorder
Their smallest, most affordable recorder ever
The H1 puts professional stereo recording capabilities in your pocket
Hauppauge, NY – June 01, 2010 – Zoom is excited to announce availability and shipping dates for its smallest recorder to date, the new H1 Handy Recorder. Weighing in at about 2 oz, the H1 records big sound despite its tiny footprint and features the same studio-quality microphones as Zoom’s renowned H2 – the most popular handheld recorder in the world. The H1 is priced at just $99, making it one of the most affordable professional recording solutions available.
Like all Zoom recorders, the H1’s two onboard microphones are configured in an X/Y pattern, for stunning stereo imaging depth and clarity. The pocket-sized H1 delivers crystal clear 24-bit/96 kHz stereo recordings perfect for music, interviews, lectures, recitals, band practice and more.
“It’s our smallest recorder ever,” said Mark Wilder, Director of Marketing. “But don’t let its size fool you. The H1 Handy Recorder features our studio-quality microphones and our award winning recording technology at a very affordable price.”
The H1 is also the easiest Zoom recorder to use, sporting a newly designed user interface that places all its functions at the touch of a button. Zoom included access to the track marker, auto record, low cut filter, level and volume controls with onboard buttons and no menus.
The H1 can accommodate up to 32GB microSDHC memory cards, providing over 50 hours of recording time. The new pocket sized recorder is powered by a single AA size battery, which provides up to 10 hours or continuous operation. H1 users can purchase an H1 accessory kit for just $24.99 that includes a windscreen, AC adapter (USB type), USB cable, adjustable tripod stand, soft carrying pouch and mic clip adapter.
The Zoom H1 Handy Recorder will be available everywhere on July 30 for $99.
Stereo X/Y mic configuration captures perfect stereo images
Same frequency and SPL handling as popular Zoom H2
Records WAV 96kHz/48kHz/44.1kHz at 16-bit or 24-bit
Records MP3 from 48 to 320kbps for maximum recording time
USB 2.0 port and integrated reference speaker built-in
One AA size (LR6) battery – 10 hours operation
Includes 2GB microSD memory card and AA battery
Accommodates up to 32GB microSD memory cards
Auto record level setting
Track marker function
Low cut filter
1/8” external mic input
Stereo 1/8” line output
Built-in mounting joint for tripod and mic stand mounting
About Zoom Corporation
Zoom is renowned all over the world for its recording and guitar effects gear. Headquartered in Tokyo, Zoom has continuously created a diverse line of original, innovative audio products from effect processors, to rhythm machines, samplers and recorders. Samson Technologies is the exclusive U.S. distributor of Zoom products. Samson is based in Hauppauge, New York. zoom.co.jp /samsontech.com
