Essential Information About the Zoom H6essential Portable Multitrack Recorder
- 6 tracks in 32-bit floating point with dual A/D conversion for clipping-free recording and enormous dynamic range.
- 4 combo XLR/TRS inputs with ultra-clean Zoom preamps + 135 dB SPL X/Y microphone capsule, 3.0 interchangeable capsule system.
- 32-bit floating point 6x2 USB interface for Mac/PC/iOS/Android with simultaneous recording to microSD card.
- Advanced accessibility (multilingual voice guidance), 2" color screen, and wireless timecode via optional Bluetooth adapter BTA-1.
The New Pillar of the Essential Series
The Zoom H6essential establishes itself as the benchmark of the "Essential" series by inheriting the DNA of the legendary H6 and adding next-generation advancements: 32-bit floating point recording, dual A/D converter, 3.0 capsule system, and native accessibility. It is the most versatile tool in the range, designed to deliver impeccable sound without critical gain adjustments.
For Demanding Podcasters, Musicians, and Videographers
Whether capturing a rehearsal, a roundtable, a shoot, or a field report, the H6essential covers all scenarios. The 4 XLR/TRS inputs accommodate vocal microphones and instruments while the X/Y capsule records natural stereo. Filmmakers benefit from a 32-bit stream resistant to peaks, synchronizable timecode, and a compact, reliable workflow.
Key Features and Major Innovations
32-bit Floating Point and Dual A/D
In 32-bit, the H6essential captures the full dynamic range of the source and allows recovery of the most violent transients without distortion. Forget the gain race: focus on the recording, not on safety margins.
3.0 Capsules and 135 dB SPL X/Y Microphone
The included XYH-6e stereo capsule handles up to 135 dB SPL, ideal for concerts and powerful atmospheres. Need a discreet setup? Remove the capsule and use the supplied cap. The 3.0 platform opens access to more modules, including the EXH-6e which adds two additional XLR inputs.
6x2 Interface and Redundant Recording
Use the H6essential as a 32-bit floating point audio interface while simultaneously saving all 6 tracks to an SD card. Perfect for podcasting, live streaming, or mobile music with true session security.
Accessibility and Timecode
Designed to be inclusive, the H6essential speaks: navigation via audible descriptions through headphones or speaker, in seven languages (English, Spanish, French, Japanese, German, Italian, Chinese). Timecode synchronization via BTA-1 facilitates audio/video alignment on set.
Technical Specifications
Recording and Formats
- 32-bit portable multitrack recorder
- Recording and playback of up to 6 tracks in WAV, BWF, or iXML formats
- Supported resolutions: 24-bit / 96 kHz and 32-bit / 96 kHz
- Built-in 6-channel mixer
Inputs / Outputs
- 4 x combo XLR/TRS jacks for line and microphone signals
- Switchable +48 V phantom power
- Mic/line inputs usable in parallel with the built-in stereo microphone
- Stereo headphone output: 3.5 mm mini-jack
- Stereo line output: 3.5 mm mini-jack
Microphones and Capsules
- Included XYH-6e stereo microphone capsule (max. 135 dB SPL)
- 3.0 capsule system compatible with 32-bit floating point
- Optional EXH-6e capsule for 2 additional XLR inputs
- Included cap for use without capsule
Interface and Connectivity
- USB interface for Mac, PC, iOS, and Android (6 inputs / 2 outputs)
- Simultaneous USB recording and streaming to SD card
- Timecode synchronization via Zoom BTA-1 Bluetooth adapter (not included)
- USB-C port
Accessibility and Display
- Audible instructions via built-in speaker or headphone output
- Languages: English, Spanish, French, Japanese, German, Italian, Chinese
- 2" color screen
Storage
- microSDHC cards up to 32 GB, microSDXC up to 1 TB (not included)
Power and Dimensions
- Power: 4 AA batteries (not included), Zoom AD-17 power adapter (not included), or USB-C port
- Dimensions (L x W x H): 160 x 78 x 43 mm
- Weight: 381 g