Zoom H2 Handy Recorder Instruction Manual

Manual Zoom H2 Handy Recorder Instruction Manual

Zoom H2 Handy Recorder Instruction Manual

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Zoom H2 Handy Recorder

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Zoom H2 Handy Recorder Instructions

Here we offer the Zoom H2 Handy Recorder manual completely free and in English. We have cataloged this manual in the Handy Recorders section on Manualverse, and it has been rated by 1 users with an average rating of 5. If you have any specific questions about Zoom H2 Handy Recorder, we suggest checking the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section of this manual.


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Zoom H2 Handy Recorder Specifications

Feature Specification
Recorder Tracks 2 (Stereo Mode) / 4 (4CH Mode)
Max Simultaneous Recording Tracks 2 (Stereo Mode) / 4 (4CH Mode)
Max Simultaneous Playback Tracks 2 (Stereo Mode) / 4 (4CH Mode)
Recording Media SD memory card (16MB - 2GB), SDHC memory card (4GB)
Max Recording File Size 2 GB
Recording Time (4GB SDHC) Approx. 380 min (WAV 44.1kHz/16bit stereo)
Approx. 68 hours (MP3 44.1kHz/128kbps stereo)
WAV Format (Record/Play) Quantization: 16/24bit
Sampling Frequency: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 96kHz (Stereo); 44.1kHz, 48kHz (4CH)
MP3 Format (Stereo Record) Bit Rate: 48-320 kbps, VBR
Sampling Frequency: 44.1kHz
MP3 Format (Playback) Bit Rate: 32-320 kbps, VBR
Sampling Frequency: 44.1kHz, 48kHz
A/D Conversion 24 bit 128 times oversampling
D/A Conversion 24 bit 128 times oversampling
Display 128 x 64 dots Full-dot LCD (with backlight)
Built-in Stereo Mic W-XY stereo microphone
MIC GAIN: L +1.5dB, M +17dB, H +27dB
EXT MIC IN (Mini stereo phone jack) Plug-in powered (2.5V)
Input Impedance: 20kΩ
Input Level: L -20dBm, M -30dBm, H -40dBm
LINE IN (Mini stereo phone jack) Input Impedance: 10kΩ
Input Level: -10dBm
PHONES/LINE OUT (Mini stereo phone jack) LINE Output Level: -10 dBm (10kΩ or more load)
PHONES Output: 15mW+15mW (into 32-ohm load)
USB Port USB 2.0 full speed
Mass storage class, Audio interface (16bit 44.1kHz/48kHz), Bus-powered
Power Requirements 9V DC, 300mA (ZOOM AD-0006 AC adapter)
2x AA (IEC R6) batteries
Continuous Recording/Playback Time Approx. 4 hours (Recording) / 4.5 hours (Playback)
Dimensions (WxDxH) 63.5 x 110 x 32 mm
Weight 110 g

Zoom H2 Handy Recorder Details

The Zoom H2 Handy Recorder stands out with its versatile microphone patterns, offering users unparalleled flexibility in capturing audio. In stereo mode, it features a FRONT 90° pattern for focused recordings like solo instruments or vocals, and a REAR 120° pattern ideal for capturing wider soundscapes or live performances. For unique scenarios, the H2 can record sounds simultaneously from both front and rear, perfect for conversations or instrument/singer duets facing each other. This thoughtful mic design minimizes the need for external equipment in many recording situations.

Beyond basic recording, the H2 incorporates a sophisticated AGC/compressor/limiter function to optimize audio levels. AGC automatically adjusts levels for consistent volume, while the compressor actively shapes dynamics, with specialized settings for vocals or drums. The limiter prevents distortion from sudden loud peaks, offering tailored presets for general use, concerts, or studio environments. These features are invaluable when recording in unpredictable sound environments, ensuring professional-sounding results without constant manual adjustment.

To streamline the recording process, the H2 offers smart functions like auto record and pre-record. Auto record can automatically start and stop recording based on a predefined input signal level, making it perfect for meetings or spontaneous musical ideas. The pre-record function, on the other hand, continuously buffers two seconds of audio, ensuring that the beginning of an unexpected sound is never missed. This means you’ll always catch that critical first note or spoken word, even if you react a moment late.

File management on the H2 is also highly practical. Users can divide files to separate tracks from a continuous recording, like splitting a live performance into individual songs. The normalize function allows boosting overall volume to a maximum level without distortion, useful for files recorded at low levels. Furthermore, stereo WAV files can be converted to space-saving MP3s directly on the device, simplifying sharing for web or email, and 4-channel recordings can be mixed down to a single stereo file.

The H2's connectivity extends its utility significantly. It functions as a USB card reader, enabling easy drag-and-drop file transfers to and from a computer, making editing or archiving effortless. Additionally, it can act as a USB audio interface, allowing direct recording of its input signal to a computer or playing back computer audio through the H2. This dual functionality transforms the portable recorder into a versatile studio tool, bridging the gap between field recording and digital audio workstations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can't find the answer you need? Here are some frequently asked questions about the Zoom H2 Handy Recorder, and we answer them below.


What types of memory cards are compatible with the Zoom H2?
The Zoom H2 supports standard SD memory cards from 16MB to 2GB, and SDHC memory cards up to 4GB.

How do I power the H2?
The H2 can be powered by two AA (IEC R6) batteries or via the ZOOM AD-0006 AC adapter (9V DC, 300mA). It can also operate on USB bus power when connected to a computer.

Can I use external microphones with the H2?
Yes, the H2 features an EXT MIC IN mini stereo phone jack, which also provides 2.5V plug-in power for compatible microphones.

Why are the built-in microphones not working?
The built-in microphones are automatically deactivated if anything is connected to the EXT MIC IN or LINE IN jacks. Disconnect any external devices from these jacks to enable the built-in mics.

How can I prevent recording distortion?
Ensure the MIC GAIN switch (L/M/H) is set appropriately for your sound source. Adjust the recording level so that the level meters on the display do not exceed 0 dB during the loudest passages. You can also utilize the built-in limiter function.

What are the different mic patterns for and when should I use them?
The H2 offers FRONT 90° for focused stereo recording, REAR 120° for wide ambient stereo recording, and SURROUND (2CH or 4CH) for capturing sound from both front and rear simultaneously. Choose based on your sound source's position and desired breadth.

Can I edit audio files directly on the H2?
Yes, the H2 offers several file editing functions including renaming, deleting, dividing (splitting into two), normalizing (raising overall volume), and converting WAV files to MP3 format (stereo mode only).

What is the purpose of the auto record and pre-record functions?
Auto record starts and stops recording automatically based on input signal level, useful for meetings or capturing spontaneous sounds. Pre-record buffers up to two seconds of audio, ensuring you capture sound from just before you press the record button, preventing missed beginnings.

How do I transfer recordings to my computer?
Connect the H2 to your computer via USB cable. Select "STORAGE" in the H2's USB menu to use it as a card reader, allowing you to drag-and-drop files between the H2's SD card and your computer.

Can the H2 be used as a computer audio interface?
Yes, select "AUDIO I/F" in the H2's USB menu. It functions as a 2-channel input/output audio interface (16bit, 44.1kHz/48kHz) compatible with Windows XP/Vista and MacOS X (10.2 or later).

What does 'Data Write Error' mean and how do I fix it?
This message indicates that the H2 could not keep up with the data stream when writing to the SD card, causing a brief sound dropout. To remedy this, reduce the recording mode's sampling frequency or quantization (e.g., from 96kHz/24bit to 44.1kHz/16bit or MP3).

Why does the display show 'Key Hold' and how do I disable it?
'Key Hold' appears when the key hold function is active, locking most controls to prevent accidental changes during recording or playback. To disable it, press and hold the MENU key until 'Released' appears on the display.

How do I format an SD card in the H2?
From the main menu, navigate to "SD CARD" then "FORMAT." Confirm your choice, but be aware that formatting will erase all data on the card and cannot be undone.

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