Zoom - H5 Handy Recorder

I will begin by saying that my review is not based on electronic testing equipment but simply on my ears and my views. Having owned two earlier models of the Handy Recorder, and having been always totally pleased, I felt I would give this new model a go. Out of the box, you will immediately see that it is not a sony business-meeting shirt-pocket digital recorder, but rather, a serious semi-pro to pro device for quality sound recording. It comes with a sturdy plastic case, which I would definitely recommend using for transport. While the unit is not flimsy at all, it is a sophisticated electronic device and should be handled accordingly. The menu was easy to follow, having already used this brand many times before. In no time I was recording sounds around the house to test the device. With quality earphones, the playback was totally captivating. As I heard voices in the background, I had to remember whether they were recorded or someone actually speaking as I was listening. Record anything with this device, put in the earphones, sit back and close your eyes and listen, and you will be completely absorbed into what you are hearing. We focus so much today on snapshots, videos, but very little on pure sound. If you use this to simply record the sounds around you to hear again, it will be worth the price. If you plan to record your band or other live performances, you will far more than your money's worth. I see this as another amazing device allowing me to preserve all of those precious sounds around me - from my children playing to the dog barking. These too will be precious recordings in years to come, as are my photos and videos.

Zoom is known for producing great quality recorders among other types of gear for musicians. I had previously owned a Zoom H2, but was not quite satisifed with the low pre-amps. So, I recently purchased this H5, and it sounds amazing. The quality is close to my recordings with my condenser microphones. The item feels and looks great. Adjusting the input volume involves using actual knobs, which gives a nice, tactile feel. Navigating through the menu is easy, but a little strange with the button that is provided. Overall, the Zoom H5 is a fantastic product.

I'm a live sound engineer and love to record my shows. I can't always multi track so the H5 is exactly what I need to get a matrix recording. The XY pattern mics also get a great ambient recording. This is great for movie audio recording as well. The card that comes with it is operational but, not big. Definitely get a larger size one for big projects.

Been using this device to record audio for my videos. The sound quality is great, plus I love the versatility of the device. The only bummer is that it does not accept 64GB card, only 32 GB.

Over all satisfied. I would recommend this to anyone who needs one.

I couldn't be happier with my zoom mic. After purchasing a camcorder that didn't include XLR jacks I was looking for a mic that would compare to the required sound. This zoom mic did the job. It has the ability to record 4 separate tracks 2 from the included mic head L/R and two XLR jacks for an external mic or instrument. There was an xd card included to save recordings. There's a multitude of professional recording options and would be a great addition to any setup.

I have been using these types of recorders for all types of events. They work great!

This is NOT a simple recording device. It is for audio geeks only. It is complicated beyond reason and only for those willing to read pages and pages of detailed instructions and even then, one might not get a sound. It's worse than any "point and shoot" camera, which never did fit that description. After 5 recording sessions, we still haven't gotten successful, complete sessions. It's just not worth the money......unless you have an engineering degree.