I just got one of the new Zoom H2 units today and will try to write up a short review this week. Some quick observations--both the physical controls and the menu interface are an improvement over the H4 unit. The unit is easy and intuitive to use and basic functions (like setting levels) are very accessible. The build quality is ok, the fit and finish are reasonable for a low cost unit. The H2 is very light and compact
I haven't really had time for more than a few test recordings, but the mic quality is good. Can't comment on the pre's yet as I haven't looked at any of the wav files yet, but there's a bit of a noise floor when listening via the headphone out--pretty much what I'd expect. Nothing too objectionable though, so that's a good sign. I'm crossing my fingers and hoping that most of the noise is due to the headphone output circuit (as in the DVX). I need to order an XLR to 1/8" cable to try the H2 with a self-powered mic, but the onboard mics seems very useable. It's conceivable that you could mount the H2 on a boom pole for double system sound (for interiors) because of the light weight. The unit includes a real tripod socket and date/time stamping for audio files.
No recording artifacts I've noticed (like the led/H4 issue). The surround recording is an interesting option if not all that relevant to film work; it seems to work well, recording a signal from all 4 mics in either 4 or 2 channels. I need to put the H2 though it's paces, but I find it very promising for recording wild sound and potentially much broader use. For $200, this is a nice little recorder and will likely be keeping the H2.
I haven't really had time for more than a few test recordings, but the mic quality is good. Can't comment on the pre's yet as I haven't looked at any of the wav files yet, but there's a bit of a noise floor when listening via the headphone out--pretty much what I'd expect. Nothing too objectionable though, so that's a good sign. I'm crossing my fingers and hoping that most of the noise is due to the headphone output circuit (as in the DVX). I need to order an XLR to 1/8" cable to try the H2 with a self-powered mic, but the onboard mics seems very useable. It's conceivable that you could mount the H2 on a boom pole for double system sound (for interiors) because of the light weight. The unit includes a real tripod socket and date/time stamping for audio files.
No recording artifacts I've noticed (like the led/H4 issue). The surround recording is an interesting option if not all that relevant to film work; it seems to work well, recording a signal from all 4 mics in either 4 or 2 channels. I need to put the H2 though it's paces, but I find it very promising for recording wild sound and potentially much broader use. For $200, this is a nice little recorder and will likely be keeping the H2.
