The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder is a flexible, professional-grade portable recorder built for musicians, educators, journalists and sound designers who need dependable, broadcast-quality audio in a compact format. With interchangeable microphone capsules, high-headroom preamps and intuitive physical controls, the H5 adapts easily from classroom recording to location sound, rehearsal capture and content creation.
At the core of the H5 are Zoom’s renowned low-noise preamps, delivering clean recordings at up to 24-bit / 96 kHz. The included XY stereo microphone capsule handles high sound pressure levels without distortion, making it well suited to ensemble recording, live performance and environmental sound capture.
Swappable capsule support allows the recorder to expand into mid–side, shotgun or external XLR-based configurations. This modular approach gives the H5 long-term flexibility, supporting a wide range of recording scenarios without replacing the core unit.
Two locking XLR/TRS combo inputs provide phantom power and independent gain control, enabling direct connection of microphones, instruments or mixers. Dedicated gain knobs for each input allow fast, tactile adjustment without menu navigation – particularly valuable in classroom settings and fast-paced recording environments.
A built-in limiter, low-cut filter and backup recording mode help protect against clipping and sudden level changes. These features make the H5 a reliable choice for both inexperienced users and critical recording applications.
The H5 also functions as a USB audio interface, allowing direct connection to a computer for podcasting, music production or remote learning. This dual functionality supports both portable and desk-based workflows.
With long battery life and a robust, rubberised chassis, the H5 is designed to perform reliably in both studio and field environments. Compact, expandable and engineered for clarity, it remains a trusted solution for high-quality portable recording without compromise.
Chamberlain Music is an approved supplier for the DfE Musical Instruments, Equipment, & Technology Framework.
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