Portable Recorder

Zoom's H2 Essential portable recorder is a versatile tool for creators. Its 32-bit floating-point resolution delivers high-quality sound without clipping, even without having to adjust the gain, avoiding having to monitor settings during recording. Equipped with 3 internal microphones, it adjusts to your needs, whether recording in 90° or 120° stereo, in directional mono or in surround sound. Thanks to its USB-C connectivity, it can also be used as a USB microphone plugged directly into a computer for podcasts, videos, or calls. Ideal for musicians, videographers, journalists and podcasters, it adapts to all creative needs.

ARTICLE N° 98189
  • Zoom H2 Essential
  • Standalone digital recorder
  • Channels: 4 tracks, 2 stereo
  • Sampling: 44.1, 48 or 96 kHz
  • Maximum resolution: 32-bit float
  • Compatible audio formats: Wave, BWF and iXML
  • Capsules: 2 unidirectional (front/rear), 1 bidirectional (sides)
  • Directivities: x9 (Mono, Stereo 90°, Stereo 120°, etc.)
  • Color LCD screen: 1.3" (240 × 240)
  • Recording capacity: up to 1 TB
  • Recording media: microSDHC, microSDXC
  • USB audio interface: USB 2.0 High Speed ​​
  • Advanced functions: Low-cut filter, pre-recording, automatic recording, playback speed adjustment
  • Connections:
  • Mic/Line lavalier microphone input: Mini-jack ∅3.5 mm (with PiP power supply)
  • Headphone output: mini-jack ∅3.5 mm stereo
  • 4I2 audio interface + card reader: USB-C
  • Bluetooth connectivity via BTA-1 adapter (sold separately) for:
  • Remote control & UltraSync Blue synchronization
  • Speaker: Mono 250 mW
  • Power supply:
  • Batteries: 2x LR6 / AA (autonomy ≈ 20 hours)
  • AD-17 power adapter (sold separately)
  • Dimensions: 97 x 60 x 44 mm
  • Weight: 170 g
With the Zoom H2 Essential, you have a complete solution for all your sound recording needs.
With its 3 microphones, this unique model allows you to choose between several recording patterns. Whether you need a stereo recording for an acoustic live or a mono recording for interviews, this device adapts to all your requirements. Its compact size makes it a practical tool to carry, while offering professional sound quality.

Where the H2essential really makes the difference is its ability to record with incomparable precision thanks to the 32-bit float mode.
No matter your environment, you will no longer have to manually adjust the gain: the device automatically adjusts to avoid any saturation or distortion. You are sure to get optimal sound quality every time.

For creators who use video, the H2essential offers additional features. You can connect it directly to your smartphone via USB-C and capture professional audio at the same time as your video. Whether you’re vlogging, streaming or podcasting, you’ll get the clear, defined audio that’s essential for quality content.

The H2essential doesn’t forget about accessibility, with features specifically designed for visually impaired users.

Menu navigation is made easy with audible descriptions in multiple languages.

Zoom, a trusted audio brand with a long history of innovation in recording solutions, isn’t resting on its laurels.

By offering versatile and intuitive products to meet the needs of modern creators, they’re evolving their Handy Recorder range to provide reliable and accessible audio solutions for everyone.
Number of ways
 4
Compatibility
 MacOS, Windows, Android
Audio format
 Wav, MP3
Memory type
 Micro SD / SDHC / SDXC card
Max sampling frequency
 96
Maximum resolution
 32-bit floating point
Integrated stereo microphone
 Yes
Micro input
 Yes
Media player
 micro SDXC, micro SDHC
Headphone output
 Yes
Analog output
 3.5 mm TRS mini-Jack
USB port
 Yes
Power supply
 Battery(ies), Via USB bus, Power adapter (sold separately)
Weight
 170 g
Some of the developments on the Zoom H2Essential recorder:

- 1.3" color LCD screen (240 × 240), more modern and intuitive interface.
- Recording in WAV, BWF and iXML format, up to 96 kHz/32-bit float.
- 3 microphone capsules: up to 9 directivities, with optimized sensitivity levels.
- Supports microSDHC / SDXC cards up to 1 TB, for high-resolution recordings.
- Up to 20 hours of battery life.
- Remote control via Bluetooth (via optional BTA-1 adapter)
- Synchronization via UltraSync Blue.

Spotlight on

For more than 30 years, Zoom has been a well-known brand for its effects pedals and its numerous audio/video recording solutions, such as the Zoom H4N Pro or Zoom H1N. To go further, the Zoom R24 multitrack recorder / interface / controller / sampler or the Zoom R8 8-track SD recorder, sampler and USB interface will make you happy. Zoom also offers effects pedals: Zoom G6 Guitar Multi-Effects & Amp Simulator, Zoom B3X Bass Effects and Amp Simulator and Zoom A3 Pre Amp Acoustic Guitar Effects, to name a few. With such a diverse range of gear for every type of musician, a Zoom product can play a role in every stage of your ever-evolving musical career.