registered trademarks in this document are for identiﬁcation purposes only and are not intended to infringe on the copyrights of their respective owners.

Proper display is not possible on grayscale devices.

Table of Contents

Need help?

Do you have a question about the H2essential and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Summary of Contents for Zoom H2essential

Page 1 Operation Manual You must read the Usage and Safety Precautions before use. ©2024 ZOOM CORPORATION Copying or reprinting this manual in part or in whole without permission is prohibited. Product names, registered trademarks and company names in this document are the property of their respective companies. All trademarks and registered trademarks in this document are for identiﬁcation purposes only and are not intended to infringe on the copyrights of their respective owners.
Page 2: Notes About This Operation Manual
• Recording from copyrighted sources, including CDs, records, tapes, live performances, video works and broadcasts, without permission of the copyright holder for any purpose other than personal use is prohibited by law. Zoom Corporation will not assume any responsibility related to infringements of copyrights.
Page 3: Table Of Contents
Contents Notes about this Operation Manual........................2 H2essential overview..............................6 Recording mode overview............................6 Recording examples..............................10 Achieving high audio quality throughout recording and editing............... 14 Functions of parts..............................16 Overview of screens that appear........................... 22 Recording process..............................30 Making preparations..............................31 Inserting microSD cards............................31 Supplying power................................
Page 4 Restoring the factory default state........................157 Managing the ﬁrmware............................159 Checking ﬁrmware versions..........................159 Updating the ﬁrmware............................160 Operating the H2essential from a smartphone/tablet..................161 Disconnecting from smartphones and tablets....................162 Checking the latest information for the H2essential..................163 Appendix................................... 164 Troubleshooting...............................164...
Page 5 H2essential metadata list............................166 Mixer block diagrams............................. 170 Speciﬁcations................................171...
Page 6: H2Essential Overview
H2essential overview Recording mode overview With the H2essential, recording directions and mic pick up patterns can be set according to purpose. FRONT MONO 90° 120° MONO 90° 120° REAR...
Page 7 FRONT REAR ■ FRONT recording This setting records from the front of the H2essential. Use this to record with the H2essential facing the sound source. ■ REAR recording This setting records from the back of the H2essential. The display can be viewed while recording your own singing while playing an instrument, for example.
Page 8 Pickup pattern settings MONO 90° 120° ■ Mono pickup pattern When the H2essential is recording in mono, a hypercardioid pickup pattern is used. This allows the targeted sound directly in front to be recorded while suppressing sound from the sides.
Page 9 ■ 90º/120º (stereo) pickup pattern The H2essential uses the mid-side (MS) method for stereo recording. The MS method uses a mid mic to capture sound directly forward and a side mic to capture sound from the left and right and converts these signals to stereo when recording.
Page 10: Recording Examples
Recording examples Example 1: Studio recording During a band rehearsal, place the H2essential in the middle and record with a FRONT+REAR stereo setting to easily capture the sound of being there without worrying about mic placement. FRONT 90° 120° 90°...
Page 11 Example 2: Face-to-face podcast recording To capture a face-to-face podcast, place the H2essential in the middle and record with a FRONT+REAR mono setting. In addition to the two FRONT and REAR recording ﬁles that are focused on the individual voices, a ﬁle with a clear mix of both voices will also be recorded.
Page 12 Example 3: Recording while playing and singing To record yourself playing and singing, place the H2essential facing toward you and record with a REAR stereo setting. This will allow you to check the waveform on the display as you record yourself playing and singing.
Page 13 Example 4: Stage recording To record facing a stage, place the H2essential in front of the stage and record with a FRONT stereo setting. This will allow the sound to be captured with wide stereo width. In this case, by also enabling the REAR, sound with an even greater sense of being there, including the ambience of the space, can be captured.
Page 14: Achieving High Audio Quality Throughout Recording And Editing
Achieving high audio quality throughout recording and editing With support for 32-bit ﬂoat WAV ﬁles, the H2essential can maintain the highest audio quality from recording through editing in a DAW or other software. 32-bit ﬂoat WAV ﬁle overview 32-bit ﬂoat WAV ﬁles have the following advantages over conventional 16/24-bit WAV ﬁles.
Page 15 Clipping advantage If a waveform sounds clipped when output from the H2essential or in a DAW, it can be edited after recording to lower its volume and restore an unclipped waveform because the data in the 32-bit ﬂoat WAV ﬁle itself is not clipped.
Page 16: Functions Of Parts
• MONO: mono (hypercardioid pickup pattern) • 90º: stereo (90º MS stereo) • 120º: stereo (120º MS stereo) ❺ Tripod mounting thread This can be used to attach the H2essential to a tripod, for example. ❻ microSD card slot Insert a microSD card here.
Page 17: Front And Rear
Front and rear ■ Rear (display side) ■ Front (battery side) ❶ Built-in mic Comprised of three mic capsules, this mic can achieve hypercardioid and MS stereo (90º/120º) pickup patterns in both front and rear directions. ❷ Display This shows various types of information. ❸...
Page 18 When the Playback Screen is open, this stops playback. Pressing this again when stopped will return to Home Screen (from most screens). ❽ REW button Press during playback or when paused to move to the previous ﬁle, the beginning of the ﬁle, or the previous marker.
Page 19 ■ Using operation buttons 1–4 When operation icons appear at the bottom of the display, including on the Menu Screen, Playback Screen, Playback Options Screen, press the operation keys directly below them to select or conﬁrm items on that screen. ...
Page 20 Example: Use the operation buttons that correspond to (select above button) and (selected below button) to select “Rec Settings”. Then, use the operation button that corresponds to (ENTER) to conﬁrm the selected item. This becomes: “Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select ‘Rec Settings’...
Page 21: Left And Right Sides
❺ REMOTE connector Connect a ZOOM BTA-1 or another dedicated wireless adapter here. This enables use of the ZOOM Handy Control & Sync app for smartphones and tablets to operate the H2essential wirelessly. ❻ MIC/LINE IN jack (supports plug-in power) A connected mic can be used to record.
Page 22: Overview Of Screens That Appear
In this section, we explain the screens shown on the display of the H2essential. Home Screen This screen appears on the display when the H2essential power is turned on. This shows the state of the H2essential, including recording status and input signal waveforms.
Page 23 ❼ Waveform display (FRONT/REAR) This shows the waveforms of signals input into the H2essential. Waveforms that are currently being recorded are shown in red. Waveforms are shown for the mic inputs selected using the FRONT and REAR buttons. HINT When a screen other than the Home Screen is open, press the (MENU) button to return to the Home Screen.
Page 24: Playback Screen
Playback Screen When the Home Screen is open, pressing the (PLAY/PAUSE) button to start playback will open this screen on the display. This shows playback conditions of the selected ﬁle, including the playback time and waveform. When playback starts, the name of the ﬁle being played is shown at the top of the screen. ❶...
Page 25 ❺ Waveform display (FRONT/REAR) This shows the waveform of the ﬁles being played. The parts of the waveforms that have already been played appear green. (→ Adding markers during The positions of markers can also be checked. recording, Adding/deleting markers in recorded ﬁles) ❻...
Page 26 Playback Options Screen Use this screen to make settings related to playback. When the Playback Screen is open, press (Operation button 1) to open this. ❶ Playback option items This shows setting items and setting values, for example. ❷ Operation icons Press operation buttons below the corresponding operation icons on the display to select option items (→ Using operation buttons and conﬁrm selected items.
Page 27: Mixer Screen
Mixer Screen Press the (MIXER) button to open this. Use this to adjust the levels of the tracks. Screen during playback ❶ Status icon The playback status is shown by an icon. • Recording • Recording paused • Playing back •...
Page 28 ❻ Remaining battery indicator This is shown when operating on batteries. When the remaining battery charge becomes low, replace (→ Installing (→ Connecting an AC the batteries batteries) or connect an AC adapter adapter) or (→ Using other power portable battery sources). ❼ Level setting indicator These show the level settings for each track.
Page 29: Menu Screen
Menu Screen Make recording, input, output and system settings, use USB and Bluetooth functions and manage SD cards on this screen. When the Home Screen is open, press the (MENU) button to open this. ❶ Menu title ❷ Menu items This shows setting items and setting values, for example.
Page 30: Recording Process
Recording process Recording follows the process shown below. (→ Inserting microSD • Load a microSD card. cards) (→ Installing • Prepare the power. batteries, Connecting an AC adapter) (→ Turning the power • Turn the power on. (→ Making input • Make settings related to input. settings) (→ Making recording •...
Page 31: Making Preparations
Making preparations Inserting microSD cards When the power is oﬀ, open the microSD card slot cover. Then, insert a microSD card with the logo facing down all the way into the slot. To remove a microSD card, push it further into the slot and then pull it out. Close the microSD card slot cover.
Page 32 • A message will open when a card that has not been used with the H2essential before is loaded in it. (→ Testing microSD When the SD Card Testing Screen opens, test the SD card.
Page 33: Supplying Power
Supplying power The H2essential can operate using batteries or a power supply connected to the USB port (AC adapter, USB bus power or portable battery). Power from a power supply connected to the USB port will be used before batteries.
Page 34: Connecting An Ac Adapter
Connect the cable of a dedicated AC adapter (AD-17) to the USB port (Type-C) and connect the adapter to an outlet. Using other power sources By connecting the USB port (Type-C) to a computer, the H2essential can be operated using USB bus power. Moreover, it can also be powered by a 5V portable battery (commercially-available).
Page 35: Connecting Input Devices
Connecting a lavalier mic, for example, to the MIC/LINE IN jack The H2essential has a MIC/LINE IN jack that can be used to connect an external mic or line-level device. This jack can also provide plug-in power to mics that use it.
Page 36: Turning The Power On/Off
Setting the type of batteries used (ﬁrst time starting up)) NOTE • The H2essential can be set so that its power will automatically turn oﬀ if it is not used for a set amount of (→ Setting the time until the power turns oﬀ time.
Page 37 The display will darken and the power will turn oﬀ. NOTE • While “Please wait. Saving data…” is shown, the current settings of the H2essential are being saved. While “Please wait. Saving data…” is shown, do not disconnect the AC adapter or remove the batteries.
Page 38: Setting The Guide Sound (First Time Starting Up)
Setting the guide sound (ﬁrst time starting up) Set the guide sound when a screen to set it is shown the ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase or after the H2essential has been reset to factory defaults. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select a setting, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm it.
Page 39: Setting The Language Shown (First Time Starting Up)
Set the display language when a screen to set it is shown after setting the guide sound the ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase or after the H2essential has been reset to factory defaults. (operation button 2) and...
Page 40: Setting The Date Format (First Time Starting Up)
Set the date format when a screen to set it is shown after setting the display language the ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase or after the H2essential has been reset to factory defaults. The date written to recorded ﬁles will use the date format selected here.
Page 41: Setting The Date And Time (First Time Starting Up)
Set the date and time when a screen to set them is shown after setting the date format the ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase or after the H2essential has been reset to factory defaults. The date and time are stored in recording ﬁles.
Page 42 After the date and time setting is conﬁrmed, set the battery type when a screen to set it opens. (→ Setting the type of batteries used (ﬁrst time starting up)) NOTE If power is not supplied for a long time, the date and time settings stored in the unit will be reset. If the Set Date/Time Screen appears during startup, set them again.
Page 43: Setting The Type Of Batteries Used (First Time Starting Up)
Setting the type of batteries used (ﬁrst time starting up) Set the type of batteries used in the H2essential when a screen to set it is shown after setting the date and time the ﬁrst time the power is turned on after purchase or after the H2essential has been reset to factory defaults.
Page 44: Preventing Misoperation (Hold Function)
Preventing misoperation (HOLD function) In order to prevent misoperation, the hold function can be used to disable the buttons on the H2essential. Slide the (POWER/HOLD) switch toward “HOLD” (toward the unit top). This turns on the HOLD function, disabling operations using all buttons.
Page 45: Making Input Settings
Making input settings Setting the recording direction and mic pickup pattern Enabling recording directions FRONT (toward the front) and REAR (toward the rear) can be selected as directions for recording. Press the (FRONT) button to enable recording in the front direction and the (REAR) button to enable recording in the rear direction.
Page 46: Using Plug-In Power
Using plug-in power Make the following setting when a mic that is compatible with plug-in power is connected to the MIC/LINE IN jack. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Input”...
Page 47 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “On”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 48: Reducing Noise (Lo Cut)
Reducing noise (Lo Cut) Low frequencies can be cut to reduce the sound of wind and vocal pop noises, for example. When the Home Screen is open, press the (LO CUT) button repeatedly to select the cutoﬀ frequency. The cutoﬀ frequency can be selected and set to OFF, 80 Hz, 160 Hz or 240 Hz.
Page 49: Switching The Stereo/Mono Setting For Mics Connected To The Mic/Line In Jack
Switching the stereo/mono setting for mics connected to the MIC/LINE IN jack The channel format used for recording audio with a mic connected to the MIC/LINE IN jack can be selected. The L and R channels will be recorded together as stereo audio when set to “Stereo”. The L and R channels will be mixed to one channel and recorded as mono audio when set to “Mono Mix”.
Page 50 NOTE The sound output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack and the sound during USB mic operation is also switched.
Page 51: Making Output Settings
Settings can be made for output to headphones and connected devices. When connecting another device, minimize its input gain and use an audio cable to connect its external mic jack to the PHONE/LINE OUT jack on the H2essential. HINT When output to an external device is unnecessary, disconnecting the cable from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack...
Page 52: Changing How The Output Level Is Adjusted
Changing how the output level is adjusted How the level is adjusted for output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack to other devices can be changed. When connecting another device, for example, select “Fixed” if you do not want use of (VOLUME) to change the volume.
Page 53 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Volume Control”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the output level adjustment method, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm it. Setting Explanation Knob...
Page 54: Adjusting The Output Level When Set To Fixed Volume Control
Adjusting the output level when set to ﬁxed volume control (→ Changing how the output level The output level when “Volume Control” is set to “Fixed” can be adjusted. adjusted) Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen.
Page 55 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the ﬁxed level, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. The setting value is shown on the display. HINT • This can be set to “Mute” or from −40 to +40. •...
Page 56: Recording
Recording When recording with the H2essential, every selected track is recorded separately. In addition, all signals are mixed and simultaneously recorded as a stereo ﬁle. (→ Adjusting the monitoring mix The stereo ﬁle is recorded with the mix of signals set on the Mixer Screen.
Page 57 NOTE • The volume output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack is also aﬀected by volume adjustments made on the (→ Adjusting the monitoring mix of the mic Mixer Screen. inputs) • When nothing is connected to the PHONE/LINE OUT jack, operating the (VOLUME) dial will change the speaker volume.
Page 58: Adjusting The Monitoring Mix Of The Mic Inputs
Adjusting the monitoring mix of the mic inputs On the H2essential Mixer Screen, the monitoring mix of all input mics can be adjusted. Moreover, the levels of the mic input sounds and their stereo mix signal can be checked with the level meters.
Page 59 Repeat steps 2–3 to balance the levels overall. When done adjusting press the (MIXER) button to return to the Home Screen. NOTE • On the Mixer Screen, the (REC) button can be used to start recording in the same way as on the Home Screen.
Page 60: Making Recording Settings
Making recording settings Setting the sample rate The sample rate used to record ﬁles can be set. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 61 • The only bit depth that can be used for recording is 32-bit ﬂoat. • To use the H2essential to record while using it as an audio interface, set the sample rate to 44.1 kHz or 48 (→ Using as an audio kHz.
Page 62 Recording with MS RAW format The H2essential supports mid-side stereo recording. When the “Stereo Format” is set to “MS RAW”, the sound captured front and center by the mid mic is recorded to the L channel and the sound from the left and right captured by the side mic is recorded to the R channel.
Page 63 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the stereo format, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. Setting Explanation Stereo L and R will be recorded as stereo audio. MS RAW The mid signal will be recorded to the L channel and the side signal will be recorded to the R channel of the stereo ﬁle.
Page 64 Setting whether to record mix ﬁles When both inputs are enabled, the H2essential will simultaneously record a stereo mix of them. Recording of mix ﬁles can be disabled, however, to conserve space on the SD card. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
Page 65 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Oﬀ”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. This disables recording of mix ﬁles.
Page 66 Capturing audio before recording starts (pre-recording) The input signal is always buﬀered for a set amount of time, so it can be captured (pre-recorded) for up to 2 seconds before the time when the (REC) button is operated to start recording. This is useful when the (REC) button is operated late, for example.
Page 67 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “On”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. The amount of time that can be pre-recorded when this is set to “On” depends on the sample rate (→ Setting the sample setting rate).
Page 68: Recording Automatically (Auto Rec)
Recording automatically (Auto Rec) Recording can start automatically when the input sound exceeds a set level. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 69 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “On/Oﬀ”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “On”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 1) to return to the previous screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Start Level”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 70 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the recording start level ), and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm selection. Press the (MENU) button. This opens the Recording Standby Screen. Press the (REC) button on the Recording Standby Screen. Automatic recording standby will start and the REC button will light red.
Page 71 Recording will start automatically when the input level set in step 8 is exceeded. The Recording Screen will be shown after the name of the ﬁle being recorded is shown. (→ Recording) NOTE Pressing the (REC) button when the Automatic Recording Standby Screen is open will start recording regardless of the input level.
Page 72 Stopping recording automatically (Auto Stop) Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Auto Rec”...
Page 73 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the automatic stopping time, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. This can be set to OFF or between 0 and 5 seconds. (operation button 1) to return to the previous screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Stop Level”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 74 Since recording start tones are also written to recording ﬁles, when recording audio for video with the H2essential, sending its output signal to the camera input can make synchronizing audio and video easier. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
Page 75 OFF, –40 dBFS, –20 dBFS, –12 dBFS, –6 dBFS No recording start tone will be played if “OFF” is selected. Use a stereo mini jack cable to connect the input jack of the camera to the H2essential PHONE/LINE OUT jack.
Page 76: Setting The Self-Timer
Setting the self-timer After pressing the (REC) button, recording will start automatically after the set time passes. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 77 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the time until recording starts, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. The following times can be selected. Oﬀ, 3 sec, 5 sec, 10 sec Press the (MENU) button. This opens the Home Screen.
Page 78 Recording will start automatically after the time set in step 4 passes. The Recording Screen will be shown after the name of the ﬁle being recorded is shown. (→ Recording) NOTE This cannot be used with the automatic recording function. When the self-timer is enabled, AUTO REC will be (→ Recording automatically (Auto disabled.
Page 79 Setting the recording time display Whether the elapsed recording time or the remaining available recording time is shown during recording can be selected. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 80 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the time to be shown, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm it. Setting Explanation Elapsed Time The current elapsed recording time will be shown. Remaining Time The remaining available recording time will be shown. The Elapsed/Remaining Time will be shown at the top of the display when recording.
Page 81 Writing metadata (iXML chunks) to recording ﬁles (→ Metadata Various related information (metadata) stored in iXML chunks can be written to recorded ﬁles. contained in iXML chunks in WAV ﬁles) Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen.
Page 82 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select a setting, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm it. Setting Explanation Oﬀ Metadata (iXML chunks) will not be added to recording ﬁles. Write Metadata (iXML chunks) will be added to recording ﬁles. NOTE Some applications might not be compatible with ﬁles that have data embedded in them.
Page 83: Recording
Recording Press the (REC) button when the Home Screen is open. The REC button will light red, the name of the recording ﬁle will appear on the display and recording will start. (→ Setting the The elapsed recording time or the remaining recordable time is shown when recording. recording time display) NOTE...
Page 84 HINT • Files are automatically saved at regular intervals during recording. If the power is interrupted or another problem occurs during recording, an aﬀected ﬁle can be restored to normal by turning on the power again. • Recording can be paused by pressing the (PLAY/PAUSE) button.
Page 85: Adding Markers During Recording
Adding markers during recording Markers can be added to ﬁles while recording. Added markers are shown on the Playback Screen, and the (REW) and (FF) buttons can be used to move the playback position to markers. In addition, software that supports markers in recording ﬁles can also use these added markers Press the (MARKER) button during recording.
Page 86: Moving The File Being Recorded To The Trash Folder
• Files moved to the trash are saved in the TRASH folder created on the SD card, but their information cannot be checked and they cannot be played back by the H2essential. To check or play them, connect (→ Transferring ﬁles to computers and other and use a computer, smartphone or tablet.
Page 87: Playing Recordings
Playing recordings Starting and stopping playback Press the (PLAY/PAUSE) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Playback Screen on the display and starts playback of the most recently recorded ﬁle. Use the (VOLUME) dial to adjust the headphone or speaker volume. Levels can also be (→ Adjusting the levels of adjusted separately for each track.
Page 88 Press the (STOP) button again to return to the Home Screen. Pressing the (MENU) button will also reopen the Home Screen. NOTE • The FRONT and REAR buttons can be pressed to turn on/oﬀ playback of those tracks. Tracks with lit buttons will be played back.
Page 89: Adjusting The Levels Of Mics
Adjusting the levels of mics Press (Operation button 1) on the Playback Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Mixer”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. This opens the Mixer Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the track for level adjustment, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm selection.
Page 90 This conﬁrms the adjusted level. Repeat steps 2–3 to balance the levels overall. NOTE (→ Changing Volume adjustments made on the Mixer Screen can be applied to ﬁles created when exporting. the ﬁle format and exporting ﬁles)
Page 91: Selecting Files For Playback (File List Screen)
Selecting ﬁles for playback (File List Screen) The File List Screen can be opened and playback ﬁles selected. Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the ﬁle you want to view in a list. This opens the Playback Options Screen.
Page 92: Changing The File Format And Exporting Files
Changing the ﬁle format and exporting ﬁles The H2essential can only record using 32-bit ﬂoat format, but recorded ﬁles can be converted to other formats and exported. This is convenient, for example, when loading ﬁles recorded on the H2essential to a computer, smartphone or tablet if the application being used does not support 32-bit ﬂoat format.
Page 93 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the tracks to export, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. The following options can be selected. Setting Explanation 2Mix This exports a stereo ﬁle that uses the mix adjusted on the Mixer (→ Adjusting the monitoring mix of the mic Screen.
Page 94 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select a normalization setting, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. If “On” is selected, the ﬁle will be normalized during export. NOTE Normalization is a function that reads the maximum volume of the audio data and levels the volume without causing distortion.
Page 95 - NN: Normalization setting (“NORM” when on or nothing when oﬀ) • The H2essential cannot play ﬁles in the Export folder. • When exporting a ﬁle that exceeded 2 GB during recording, exporting will occur for all the separate ﬁles.
Page 96: Adding/Deleting Markers In Recorded Files
Adding/deleting markers in recorded ﬁles Markers can be added to recorded ﬁles. Added markers are shown on the Playback Screen, and the (REW) and (FF) buttons can be used to move the playback position to markers. Adding markers Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the ﬁle you want to add markers to.
Page 97 Press (operation button 1). This reopens the Playback Options Screen. NOTE A maximum of 99 markers can be added to a single ﬁle. HINT In step 3, (operation button 4) can be used during playback to add markers while continuing to play.
Page 98 Deleting markers Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the ﬁle you want to remove markers from. This opens the Playback Options Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Mark”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. This opens the Marker Operation Screen.
Page 99: Repeating Playback Of A Set Interval (A-B Repeat)
Repeating playback of a set interval (A-B repeat) Playback can be repeated between two set points. Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the ﬁle you want to set for repeat playback. This opens the Playback Options Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “A-B Repeat”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 100 Press to start playback or press and hold the (REW) or (FF) button to move to the desired ending position (B point) for repeat playback. Then, press (operation button 3) to conﬁrm it. The section after the set point will appear gray. The A–B interval will appear green and repeat playback of the A–B interval will start.
Page 101: Changing The Playback Speed (Playback Speed)
Changing the playback speed (Playback Speed) The playback speed can be changed. Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the ﬁle for which you want to set the playback speed. This opens the Playback Options Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Playback Speed”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 102: Moving The File Being Played To The Trash Folder
• Files moved to the trash are saved in the TRASH folder created on the SD card, but their information cannot be checked and they cannot be played back by the H2essential. To check or play them, connect (→ Transferring ﬁles to computers and other and use a computer, smartphone or tablet.
Page 103: Setting Repeat Playback (Play Mode)
Setting repeat playback (Play Mode) Playback can be set so that after one ﬁle completes the next ﬁle will be played without stopping. Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the ﬁle for which you want to set the play mode.
Page 104 Setting Explanation Play One Playback stops after one ﬁle completes playing. Play All After one ﬁle completes playing, the next ﬁle will start playback without pause. Files will be played in name order. Playback will stop after the most recent ﬁle completes. Repeat One After one ﬁle completes playing, the same ﬁle will play again repeatedly.
Page 105: Managing Files
Files created on the H2essential will be saved on the microSD card. Recording ﬁles on the microSD card can be checked and deleted. H2essential folder and ﬁle structure Folder and ﬁle structure When recording with the H2essential, ﬁles are created on microSD cards in the following manner. 240101_012345_FRONT_16_NORM.WAV 240101_012345_REAR_16_NORM.WAV ❶...
Page 106 ❹ TRASH folder The TRASH folder is created automatically when an SD card is loaded in the H2essential. Files that have (→ Moving the ﬁle being recorded to the TRASH been moved to the TRASH folder are saved inside it. folder, Moving the ﬁle being played to the TRASH...
Page 107 Recording ﬁle names Files are named with the following format. File name example Explanation ❶ Date The date of recording is included numerically. The numbers follow the set order (Setting the date format). ❷ Time The hour, minute and second are included numerically. NOTE If the ﬁle size exceeds 2 GB, a new ﬁle will be created automatically and recording will continue without pause.
Page 108: Using As An Audio Interface
Using as an audio interface Signals input to the H2essential can be sent to a computer, smartphone or tablet, and playback signals from that device can be output from the H2essential. Moreover, the H2essential can record even when it is being used as an audio interface.
Page 109 ❸ Computer (Windows/Mac) NOTE • Use a USB cable that supports data transfer. • A Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter is necessary to connect to an iPhone/iPad with a Lighting connector. • Connection is not possible using a Type-C to Lightning cable. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen...
Page 110 The H2essential can record and play back even when it is being used as an audio interface. Audio I/F Only The H2essential will not be able to record or play back when it is being used as an audio interface.
Page 111 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz and 96 kHz options. HINT Using “Audio I/F + REC” mode, the H2essential sample rate setting cannot be changed from the computer, smartphone or tablet. To set the sample rate from a computer, smartphone or tablet, use “Audio I/F Only”...
Page 112: Adjusting The Input Settings And Monitoring Mix
NOTE • If “H2essential” cannot be selected for the “Sound” setting on a computer, it can still be used as a 32-bit ﬂoat audio interface by selecting “H2essential” as the “Audio” or “Input/Output” device in an application that supports 32-bit ﬂoat format.
Page 113: Making Output Settings
This function allows playback sound from a computer, smartphone or tablet and sounds input to the H2essential to be mixed and sent again (looped back) to the computer, smartphone or tablet. This function can be used to add narration to music played back from a computer and to record the mix or stream it on that computer, for example.
Page 114 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Loopback”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Oﬀ”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. Selecting "On” turns on the loopback function.
Page 115: Enabling Direct Monitoring
Enabling direct monitoring The sound being input to the H2essential can be directly output from it before sending the sound to the computer, smartphone or tablet. This enables monitoring without latency (direct monitoring function). When in audio interface mode, press the...
Page 116 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “On”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 117 Adjusting the USB input level If the playback sound from the computer is too loud, for example, the received volume setting can be changed to adjust the level. When in audio interface mode, press the (MENU) button on the Home Screen.
Page 118 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the USB input level, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. This can be set to Mute or from −40 dB to +40 dB.
Page 119: Disconnecting From Computers, Smartphones And Tablets
Disconnecting from computers, smartphones and tablets When in audio interface mode, press the (MENU) button on the Home Screen. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Exit”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Exit”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 120: Transferring Files To Computers And Other Devices
Transferring ﬁles to computers and other devices By connecting the H2essential with a computer, smartphone or tablet, ﬁles on the microSD card can be checked and moved. Connecting to computers, smartphones and tablets Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
Page 121 USB bus power supply capacity of the computer, operation using bus power might not be possible. If this is the case, select “Batteries” and operate using batteries when connected. • When “Batteries” is selected, power will not be supplied from the other device. Instead, the H2essential will operate using the batteries in it.
Page 122 Use a USB (Type-C) cable to connect the H2essential with a computer, smartphone or tablet. ❶ Smartphone/tablet (USB Type-C) ❷ Smartphone/tablet (Lightning) ❸ Computer (Windows/Mac) NOTE • Use a USB cable that supports data transfer. • A Lightning to USB 3 Camera Adapter is necessary to connect to an iPhone/iPad with a Lighting connector.
Page 123: Disconnecting From Computers, Smartphones And Tablets
Conduct disconnection procedures on the computer, smartphone or tablet. • Windows: Select the H2essential from “Safely Remove Hardware”. • macOS: Drag the H2essential icon to the Trash and drop it. • Smartphone/tablet: See the operation manual for the device. Press (operation button 1).
Page 124: Managing Microsd Cards
Managing microSD cards Formatting microSD cards To maximize the performance of a microSD card, use the H2essential to format it. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “SD Card”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 125 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Execute”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. This formats the microSD card. NOTE • The microSD card formatting screen can also be opened by pressing the (REC) button while turning the power on.
Page 126: Testing Microsd Cards
The writing speed of microSD cards can be tested to check if performance is good enough to save data recorded by the H2essential. A Quick Test can be done in a short amount of time, while a Full Test examines the entire microSD card.
Page 127 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Execute”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. The card performance test will start. The result of the test will be shown when it completes. NOTE Even if a performance test result is "Pass", there is no guarantee that writing errors will not occur. This information is just to provide guidance.
Page 128: Conducting A Full Test
Conducting a full test Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “SD Card”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Full Test”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 129 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Execute”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. The card performance test will start. The result of the test will be shown when it completes. If Access Rate Max. reaches 100％, the card will fail (NG). NOTE Even if a performance test result is "Pass", there is no guarantee that writing errors will not occur.
Page 130: Deleting Files In The Trash Folder
Deleting ﬁles in the TRASH folder Files moved to the trash can be deleted to empty the trash and increase open space on the SD card. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen.
Page 131 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Execute”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. This deletes all ﬁles in the trash. NOTE This operation cannot be undone. Be certain beforehand.
Page 132: Making Various Settings
Making various settings Setting the language shown The language shown on H2essential screens can be changed. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “System”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 133 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the language to use on screens, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm selection. HINT The ﬁrst time you turn the power on after purchase or restoring default settings, this screen opens automatically after setting the guide sound.
Page 134: Setting The Date And Time
Setting the date and time The date used for ﬁle names and the date and time added as data to recording ﬁles can be set. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “System”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 135 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Set Date/Time” and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the desired setting item, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm selection. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to change the value, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm it.
Page 136 HINT The ﬁrst time you turn the power on after purchase or restoring default settings, this screen opens automatically after setting the date format.
Page 137: Setting The Date Format
Setting the date format The date format can be changed. This date format is used for ﬁle names and as data added to recording ﬁles. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “System”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 138 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Date Format”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the date format, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. A speciﬁc example of the set date format will be shown at the bottom of the screen using the current date setting.
Page 139: Setting The Display Brightness
Setting the display brightness The brightness of the display can be adjusted if it is diﬃcult to see because it is too dim or too intense. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen.
Page 140 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the display brightness, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. Setting Explanation Dark The display backlight will always be dark. Medium The display brightness will be normal. Bright The display will be even brighter.
Page 141: Setting The Led Brightness
Setting the LED brightness If the LED brightness is too high, making the H2essential conspicuous, it can be made dimmer so that it is less noticeable. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen.
Page 142 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the LED brightness, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. Setting Explanation Dark This LED brightness is dimmest. Medium This LED brightness is medium. Bright This is the default brightness.
Page 143: Setting The Type Of Batteries Used
Setting the type of batteries used Set the type of batteries used by the H2essential so that the amount of remaining battery charge can be shown accurately. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen.
Page 144 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Battery Type”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the type of battery used, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm it. Setting Explanation Alkaline...
Page 145: Setting Display Power Saving
Setting display power saving In order to conserve energy, the display backlight can be set to dim if no operation is conducted for a speciﬁc amount of time. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen.
Page 146 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Power Saving” and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the time until the display backlight becomes dark, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. Setting Explanation 30 sec, 1 min, 3 min, 5 min...
Page 147: Setting The Time Until The Power Turns Off Automatically
Setting the time until the power turns oﬀ automatically The H2essential can be set so that its power will automatically turn oﬀ if it is not used for a set amount of time. To keep the power on at all times, turn oﬀ the automatic power saving setting.
Page 148 The power will not turn oﬀ automatically under the following conditions regardless of the Auto Power Oﬀ setting. • During recording or playback • When the H2essential is in use as an audio interface • When the H2essential ﬁle transfer function is in use • During card tests...
Page 149: Using The Guide Sound Accessibility Feature
Using the guide sound accessibility feature Setting the guide sound (Accessibility) With this function, the names of selected setting items can be read aloud and a beeping sound can be used to notify the occurrence of error messages, recording starting/stopping and volume adjustment, for example.
Page 150 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Guide to Sound”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select a setting, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm it. Setting Explanation ABC + Beep Setting items will be read aloud in the installed language.
Page 151 NOTE (→ Setting the guide sound • The volume of the reading voice and beep sounds can also be adjusted. volume) (→ Checking • The language and version used for the guide sound can be checked on the Version Screen. guide sound information) HINT •...
Page 152: Setting The Guide Sound Volume
Setting the guide sound volume The volume of the reading voice and beep sounds can be adjusted. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “System”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 153 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Volume”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the volume, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. The volume can be set to Quiet, Mild or Loud. NOTE The volume determined here is also aﬀected before output by adjustments made using (VOLUME).
Page 154: Checking Guide Sound Information
Checking guide sound information The language and version used for the accessibility guide sounds can be checked. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “System”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 155 (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Version”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. This opens the Version Screen where the language and version used for the accessibility guide sounds can be checked.
Page 156: Turning The Guide Sound On/Off With A Shortcut
The guide sound language is English at the time of purchase. Guide sound installation can be used to change the language and update the feature. Download the most recent accessibility installation ﬁle necessary to install the guide sound from the ZOOM website (zoomcorp.com/help/h2essential).
Page 157: Restoring The Factory Default State
Restoring the factory default state The H2essential can be restored to its factory default state. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “System”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 158 (operation button 3) to select “Execute”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm. This will restore the H2essential to its factory default state and turn the power oﬀ. NOTE Initializing settings will overwrite all settings with their factory defaults. Be certain before using this function.
Page 159: Managing The Firmware
Managing the ﬁrmware Checking ﬁrmware versions The ﬁrmware versions used by the H2essential can be checked. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “System”, and press (operation button 4) to conﬁrm.
Page 160: Updating The Firmware
Updating the ﬁrmware The H2essential ﬁrmware can be updated to the latest versions. Files for the latest ﬁrmware updates can be downloaded from the ZOOM website (zoomcorp.com/help/ h2essential). Follow the instructions in the “H2essential Firmware Update Guide” on the H2essential download page.
Page 161: Operating The H2Essential From A Smartphone/Tablet
• The ZOOM Handy Control & Sync app must be installed on the smartphone or tablet beforehand. The ZOOM Handy Control & Sync app can be downloaded from the App Store. Refer to the manual for the ZOOM Handy Control & Sync app for details about app settings and operation procedures.
Page 162: Disconnecting From Smartphones And Tablets
When connection completes “Control App Connected!” will appear on the display. Refer to the manual for the ZOOM Handy Control & Sync app for details about app settings and operation procedures. Disconnecting from smartphones and tablets Disconnection is possible by quitting the app on the smartphone or tablet.
Page 163: Checking The Latest Information For The H2Essential
Checking the latest information for the H2essential A 2D code for help related to the product can be shown on the H2essential display. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open. This opens the Menu Screen. (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Help”, and press...
Page 164: Appendix
Appendix Troubleshooting If you think that the H2essential is operating strangely, check the following items ﬁrst. Recording/playback trouble There is no sound or it is very quiet • Check the orientation of the mic or the volume settings of the connected equipment.
Page 165: Other Trouble
• Conﬁrm that the computer, smartphone or tablet and the application being used are compatible with 32-bit ﬂoat format. • Even if “H2essential” cannot be selected for the “Sound” setting on a computer, it can still be used as a 32-bit ﬂoat audio interface by selecting “H2essential” as the “Audio” or “Input/Output” device in an application that supports 32-bit ﬂoat format.
Page 166 H2essential metadata list Metadata contained in BEXT chunks in WAV ﬁles Explanation Remarks zSPEED= Frame rate zTAKE= Take number zUBITS= User bits zSCENE= Scene name System > Date/Time zTAPE= zCIRCLED= zTRKn= Track name zNOTE=...
Page 167 Metadata contained in iXML chunks in WAV ﬁles ○ = YES × = NO iXML master tag iXML sub tag Written Read Remarks ○ <PROJECT> × ○ ○ <SCENE> System > Date/Time ○ <TAKE> × ○ <TAPE> × ○ <CIRCLED> ×...
Page 168 iXML master tag iXML sub tag Written Read Remarks <SYNC_POINT_LIST> <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_TYPE> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_FUNCTION> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_COMMENT> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_LOW> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_HIGH> × × <SYNC_POINT> <SYNC_POINT_EVENT_DURATION> × × iXML master tag iXML sub tag Written Read Remarks...
Page 169 iXML master tag iXML sub tag Written Read Remarks <TRACK_LIST> ○ <TRACK_LIST> <TRACK_COUNT> × ○ <TRACK> <CHANNEL_INDEX> × ○ <TRACK> <INTERLEAVE_INDEX> × ○ <TRACK> <NAME> × <TRACK> <FUNCTION> × ×...
Page 170 Mixer block diagrams Recording/recording standby Playback...
Page 171: Specifications
44.1, 48 or 96 kHz / 32-bit ﬂoat Stereo/mono BWF and iXML formats supported Recording media microSDHC memory cards microSDXC memory cards See the ZOOM website (zoomcorp.com/help/h2essential) for information about microSD cards that have been conﬁrmed to work with this unit. Display 1.3"...
Page 172 File transfer USB 2.0 High Speed Power 2 AA batteries (alkaline, lithium, or rechargeable NiMH) AC adapter (ZOOM AD-17): DC 5V/1A • USB bus power is supported. Estimated continuous operation times using FRONT stereo recording Alkaline batteries: about 11 hours batteries at 48kHz/32-bit ﬂoat, no...
Page 173 ZOOM CORPORATION 4-4-3 Kanda-surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062 Japan zoomcorp.com Z2I-5438-01...

Zoom H2essential Operation Manual

Quick Links

Need help?

Questions and answers

Subscribe to Our Youtube Channel

Related Manuals for Zoom H2essential

Summary of Contents for Zoom H2essential