The Zoom H2 and Zoom H4 are portable audio-recording devices developed by Samson. The company markets both devices to users looking to record audio remotely from live music shows and conferences, and on location for use in podcasts and radio. Both devices feature integrated stereo microphones, LCD screens, memory card slots and on-board audio editing tools. They differ primarily in terms of size, integrated microphone arrangement and on-board features.
Size and Battery
Standing on its end, the Zoom H2 measures 4.3 inches tall, 2.5 inches wide and 1.3 inches thick at its thickest point. It weighs 3.9 oz. without its batteries and before optional upgrades and accessories. Standing on its end, the Zoom H4 is slightly larger and heavier, measuring 6.01 inches tall, 2.76 inches wide and 1.38 inches thick at its thickest point. It weighs 6.7 oz. without its batteries and before optional upgrades and accessories. Both devices derive power from either a pair of AA alkaline batteries or from an AC adapter. When running on batteries, both the Zoom H2 and the Zoom H4 get an average of four hours of recording time.
Audio Recording
Both devices record to either 24-bit, 96-kilohertz linear PCM WAV files or MP3 files at rates up to 320 kilobits per second. The Zoom H4 has two integrated condenser microphones arranged in an X/Y pattern for stereo recording. It also has a pair of combination XLR and 1/4-inch input jacks and one 1/8-inch headphone output. The Zoom H2 has two sets of X/Y-configured microphones -- one set that faces forward and one that faces backward on the device, allowing users to record 5.1 surround sound.
Features
The Zoom H2 and Zoom H4 both have built-in backlit LCD displays with resolutions of 128 by 64 pixels. The H4's features include a four-track recording mode for overdubbing, an on-board microphone modeling tool, built-in limiter and effect compression. The Zoom H2's features include on-board file splitting, normalization, automatic voice-activated recording, built-in tuner and metronome. The H2 can also be attached to a computer and used as a USB microphone.
Additional Information
Both devices are compatible with SD memory cards up to 32 gigabytes in size. Samson sells the Zoom H2 bundled with an AC adapter, 512-megabyte SD memory card, microphone clip adapter, desktop stand, windscreen, ear bud headphones, USB cable and stereo Y adapter cable. The company sells the Zoom H4 bundled with an AC adapter, USB cable, 512MB SD memory card, windscreen and tripod adapter.
Tags: Both devices, memory card, Zoom Zoom, adapter cable, batteries before, batteries before optional, before optional
