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Zoom h2 is a simple to use portable audio recorder. Manufactured by Zoom, a division of the internationally recognized Samson corporation, the handy recorder captures stereo quality sound. The unique handheld recorder is an industry pioneer, the first to record such clear, audio you capture using this recorder can be used to create 5.1 surround sound audio. Now, let’s have a look at some of the important features that the Zoom h2 handy recorder has to offer before you make any purchase decision.Zoom H2 Review – Revolutionary Features
Eager to set a new industry standard, Zoom has packed the h2 recorder with several features that make the stereo recorder a valuable asset for students, professionals, and casual users. The unique features that set this recorder apart from other digital brands are:
- Automatic Recording
- Continuous Recording
- Easy to Use Design
- Memory Card Compatible
- Multiple Accessories
- Normalizing and File Splitting
There are hundreds of digital recorders available for a variety of different prices. Learning about the h2 will help you decide if you could benefit from the multiple features of the portable audio recorder. I am going to show you why this Zoom is a recorder might be a good choice.
Automatic Recording
One problem many people have when using audio records is the inability to be discrete. Even when hidden in a pocket or purse, the act of pushing “play” is usually enjoy to expose that you are using a recorder. The Zoom h2 has an automatic recording function that, when enabled, begins recording whenever it detects audio. Once audio stops the recording automatically stops. With this feature you never have to worry about missing an important minute of recording time, or wasting battery power through unnecessary recording.
Continuous Recording
During lectures and extended business meetings, you may need a digital recorder that can record audio continuously. Using just standard batteries, you can record audio for up to four hours. The h2 also comes with an AC power adapter that, when used, provides power for non-stop recording.
Easy to Use Design
The average digital recorder that is heavily loaded with features is very difficult for a user to operate successfully. In an effort to make the recorder more user friendly, the Zoom h2 has an easy to use interface that includes a clear LCD display. Using the display makes quickly scrolling through menus, setting recording options, and playing back files simple. Plus, you can monitor battery levels and the amount of available recording time left.
Memory Card Compatible
Secure Digital media cards (SD cards) are becoming a standard part of modern technology. Used to expand the memory of most digital cameras, cell phones, and MP3 players; your SD card can now be used to store audio files. SD cards with memory capacities of up to 32GB are compatible with the h2 audio recorder. Using an SD card will allow you to capture as much as 50 hours of audio without any distortion or background noise that is often added to tape recordings or cd recordings.
Multiple Accessories
The Zoom h2 comes with several accessories that allow you to begin enjoying the portable recorder immediately. In addition to having the adapters and usb cables that most recorders have, the h2 also has accessories that allow you to begin saving files and listening to music immediately.
Normalizing and File Splitting
After you have successfully recorded a few audio files, you will not have to use an outside software to split your files or remove background noise. The h2 automatically optimizes the recorded audio and can split files up in the size of your choice. Once you have gotten files of a size and audio quality you are happy with, you can convert the standard WAV files into high quality MP3 files.
What’s Included
- One Zoom H2
- One AC Adaptor
- One USB Cable
- One Stereo Y Cable
- One Desktop Stand
- One Mic Clip Adaptor
- One Wind Screen
- One 512MB SD Card
- Earbuds
Does it Have a Warranty?
Yes, the Zoom h2 has a 1 year limited manufacturer warranty.
What Are Customers Saying about the Zoom h2?
The h2 is an extremely popular portable stereo recorder that has been reviewed several hundred times. With an average customer review of 4.4 stars out of 5 stars rating at the time of writing, the majority of customers are happy with their purchase and highly recommend the product. Commonly used by students and professionals who need a reliable recorder, the people who own this audio recorder are pleased with the price and the quality of the recorder. The most popular aspect of the recorder is the sound quality the multiple internal microphones provide during recording. The average customers are saying:
- “Believe me, you will not regret to buy this ”quasi” professional toy. Period.”
- “Just awesome wave quality for this price.”
- “I would recommend this to anyone.”
- “Great purchase. Amazing quality for such a small device – and so affordable.”
- “I can’t recommend the Zoom H2 highly enough.”
- “It delivers superbly on the core element – great recorded audio.”
Who is Complaining?
A few customers were not happy with the Zoom h2. The common complaint these unhappy buyers had was that the audio recorder would malfunction after a few weeks of perfect use. Some buyers did eventually admit that the recorder was dropped several times, and generally received some hard use. There were a few buyers who claimed they followed the instructions and cared for the recorder properly. The buyers who did report unexplained malfunctions did later say that they were able to get their Zoom replaced by the manufacturer in a timely manner.
The Pros and the Cons
Anyone who is considering this stereo recording, but can’t make up their minds, should make and review a list of the pros and cons. Sometimes the only thing you need in order to make a hard decision is a clear list of the best and worst aspects of the recorder. The pros of the h2 recorder are:
- Easy to Use
- Automated Recording
- Excellent Sound Quality
- Long Battery Life
- Multiple Accessory
- Responsive Customer Support
The cons of the h2 are:
- Unattractive Design
- Multiple Menu Options
- Occasionally Unexplainable Bugs and Errors
Final Thought
Being able to record audio in stereo quality is useful for anyone who needs to record quality audio on a regular basis. The multiple recording options make it easier to discretely start and stop recordings while in meetings or taking classes. Plus, the affordable price makes this stereo recorder a viable alternative to expensive major brands that cost several hundred dollars. Anyone who is looking for a quality stereo recorder needs to do their homework on the Zoom h2 before making any final decision.