Zoom H6studio Handy Recorder for musicians and moviemakers records 6 tracks of 192 kHz, 32-bit float audio at a maximum 140 dB sound pressure level

Zoom has launched the H6studio Handy Recorder for high-resolution audio recording on music stages and movie sets.

The unit can record six independent tracks of 192 kHz, 32-bit float WAV audio to microSDHC/microSDXC cards using the built-in 90-degree XY stereo format microphones, and external 3.5 mm or XLR microphones. The XY microphone module can be swapped out for other compatible capsule system mics, including a wireless capsule. The recorder provides phantom power to XLR microphones that require it.

The inclusion of 32-bit float recordings eliminates the need to adjust the gain to capture sounds without clipping. The built-in microphones have a dynamic range of 123 dB, capturing sounds from a nearly inaudible low of 17 dB SPL to an ear-blowing high of 140 dB SPL. The internal preamps have a 132 dB dynamic range when used with external mics. The H6studio can be used in low-bit recording modes, and a look-ahead limiter helps reduce overloads and clipping.

Headphones or the built-in speaker can be used to monitor recordings. The 2-inch 320 x 240 color LCD display can also be used to display live levels and audio waveforms. On movie sets, the H6studio can be used with a wireless timecode adapter to output or sync clocks with a 0.5 ppm accuracy. The unit can record six tracks of audio continuously for up to 6.5 hours using lithium batteries, according to Zoom.

The Zoom H6studio measures 86.0 x 221.0 x 54.6 mm (3.4 x 8.7 x 2.1 in.) and weighs 477 g (1.1 lbs. with batteries). The H6studio has an MSRP of $399.99 and is available on Amazon.