Zoom unveils H5studio Handy Recorder capable of 32-bit float audio recordings for creators and filmmakers

Zoom has released the portable H5studio Handy Recorder for creators and filmmakers. Large 19.4 mm microphones and 32-bit float recording allow users to capture very quiet and extremely loud audio on any location without clipping or distortion. The H5studio Handy Recorder has an MSRP of $349.99 (sold here on Amazon).

The H5studio uses large 19.4 mm microphones arranged in a 90º XY stereo format to capture audio as loud as 140 dB without distortion. The swappable microphone capsule system allows users to replace the on-board microphones with a short shotgun microphone, wireless microphone system, or an XLR/mini jack adapter.

Recordings can be stored as 32-bit float files, which eliminates clipping, and up to six tracks can be recorded at once when using the two XLR/TRS combo jacks and one stereo mini jack. Gain can be optionally adjusted in 32-bit float mode to eliminate the need for post-processing. 

The recorder can be used as a high-quality USB-C audio interface for Android, Apple, and Windows computers and smartphones, with 4 inputs and 2 outputs in 32-bit float audio. Optional timecode adapters allow the H5studio to receive or transmit timecode to synced cameras. Its RF shielding has been designed to prevent noise interference from nearby electronics, such as laptops and smartphones.

The Zoom recorder is powered by alkaline or rechargeable batteries, with a runtime between 6 to 21 hours depending on whether the XLR inputs are in use. The unit weighs 410 g (14.5 oz.) and measures 86.0 x 206.0 x 54.6 mm (3.4 x 8.1 x 2.1 in.).