Zoom H5 Review

Dec 16

My work is mostly events and documentary style shoots, so portability and durability are a priority. Before getting the H5 I owned the Zoom H4n. I hated it. I only used it when I needed XLR inputs from a soundboard. Otherwise I would rely on much smaller recorders that could be conceded or connected directly to lavalier microphones.

I did love the durability of H4n. But the insanely long boot times and lack of functionality above my much smaller recorders meant it stayed in my bag most shoots.

The Zoom H5 however, changed all that. They really stepped it up with the interchangeable capsules. The H5 comes in between the H4n and the new H6 in price, size, and features. The H5n and H6 can both use the same interchangeable inputs. I went with the H5 because it is smaller, half the price, and has two less XLRs. My projects don't typically require more then 4 XLR inputs.

The Attachments

The Zoom H5 comes with the standard XY pattern mic of the H4n which is great for ambiance. I ended up getting two of the 3 extras, which I've been pleased with.

The Shotgun

Great for interviews, just out of frame in a lean setup. Though not as directional dedicated shotgun mics, it does an excellent job in quite environments.

XLR Adapter

This adds two more XLR adapters with independent gain dials for left and right channels. I use it primarily with an 1/8" adapter to capture lav audio.

One of my favorite features is its ability to record a back up track through the left and right channels. So no matter what you attach one of the microphones or the XLs you get another track captured at -12db to protect from peaking.

The only thing I wish they had improved more is slow startup and formatting speeds. Although they are substantially faster then the H4n. The build quality is great and the size is reasonable for what it offers.

For me this is the sweet spot, as someone who doesn't need a full fledged field recorder and likes to keep the kit lean.