How 32-Bit Float Audio Recording is Changing Zoom’s H-essential Lineup

Why Bother with 32-Bit Float Recording?

Before we look at these new Zoom audio recorders, let’s review this new term in the audio recording community.

Basically, these new Zoom recorders use two A/D converters to deliver a large dynamic range of audio frequencies that allows users not to have to worry about fine-tuning input levels.

Signals that are digitally clipped because they were recorded too hot can be rescued these days with surprising ease. In contrast, signals recorded at too low volumes can also be normalized to workable gain levels without adding additional noise.

As long as your audio source isn’t too hot for the microphone capsule, 32-bit recording truly unlocks stress-free audio recording, as users don’t have to worry about gain-staging the input levels while on set.

With 32-bit float recording, users can simply hit record and start creating.

All three of Zoom’s new H-essential models include 32-bit float recording and support microSDXC cards up to 1TB, so you should be in good hands using any of these three for just about all of your audio-for-video needs. Let’s explore each a bit more.

Zoom H1essential

Your starter option out of the three, the Zoom H1essential Portable Recorder is ideal for musicians, podcasters, filmmakers, or just general content creators looking for a versatile array of essential features for a wide range of scenarios.

With the built-in X/Y microphone, users can capture up to 120 dB of sound without issue. You can also use the 3.5mm mic/line input with plug-in power to power Lavalier mics for all types of dialogue capture and make use of all types of advanced functions like overdubbing, playback speed adjustment, mono mode, and auto record.

Here are the full specs and price:

• Portable, Easy-to-Use Audio Recorder
• Musicians, Content Creators & Podcasters
• 32-Bit Float: No Level Adjustment Needed
• Onboard X/Y Mics Handle up to 120 dB
• Overdubbing & Playback Speed Adjustment
• Mono Mode for On-The-Go Interviews
• Vivid OLED Display
• Function as a USB-C Microphone
• Tripod Mountable
• Includes Windscreen, USB Cable, and Case

Zoom H4essential

A step up from the 2-track Zoom H1essential is the 4-track H4essential model that includes dual XLR-1/4" combo inputs which feature low-noise and high-quality Zoom mic preamps. The H4essential includes +48V phantom power for driving professional condenser mics, plus an onboard mixer with a bright 2” color display that lets users adjust individual tracks and directly view waveforms in real-time.

The H4essential can utilize its USB-C port not only for power but also to stream up to two audio channels to computers and smart devices to act as a 4-in/2-out interface. The recorder is also tripod mountable and should be easy to use in a fixed location on top of your camera via an adapter as well.

Here are the full specs and price:

• Portable, Intuitive Audio Recorder
• Musicians, Content Creators & Podcasters
• 32-Bit Float: No Level Adjustment Needed
• Onboard X/Y Mics Handle up to 130 dB
• 2 XLR-1/4" TRS Combo Inputs with Preamps
• Onboard Mixer and Waveform Display
• Function as a 4x2 USB-C Audio Interface
• Tripod Mountable
• Compatible with BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter

Zoom H6essential

Presented as Zoom’s flagship handheld recorder, the H6essnetial Portable Recorder offers six tracks of pristine, distortion-free audio combined with four XLR-1/4" combo inputs that feature the same low-noise and high-quality Zoom mic preamps as the H4essential. The H6essential also includes +48V phantom power for driving professional condenser mics and an onboard mixer with the same bright 2” color display.

The H6essential can also utilize its USB-C port for power and to stream up to two channels of audio to computers and smart devices.

Here are the full specs and price:

• Flagship Handheld Audio Recorder
• Filmmakers, Musicians, and Content Creators
• 32-Bit Float: No Level Adjustment Needed
• Removable X/Y Mics Handle up to 135 dB
• 4 XLR-1/4" TRS Combo Inputs with Preamps
• Dual A/D Converters
• Onboard Mixer and Waveform Display
• Function as a 6x2 USB-C Audio Interface
• Compatible with Alternative Capsules
• Compatible with BTA-1 Bluetooth Adapter

Are These Recorders Right For You?

Having a solid audio recording device that you can rely on is one of the most important things you can have in your kit, especially if you're a content creator or solo filmmaker.

I've used an old Zoom H4n for the past decade and it hasn't let me down yet.

But with the proliferation of 32-bit float, older recorders are now becoming more of a liability. If you use a recorder similar to the Zoom for your projects, and you don't have 32-bit float, it's now time to upgrade.