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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.
Proper display is not possible on grayscale devices.
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Notes about this Operation Manual
You might need this manual in the future. Always keep it in a place where you can access it easily.
The contents of this document and the specifications of the product could be changed without notice.
• Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of the Microsoft group of companies.
• Mac, macOS, iPhone, iPad and Lightning are trademarks of Apple Inc.
• The iPhone trademark is used under license from Aiphone Co., Ltd.
• App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
• The Bluetooth® word mark and logo are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and these marks
are used under license by Zoom Corporation.
• The microSDXC logo is a trademark of SD-3C LLC.
• USB Type-C is a trademark of the USB Implementers Forum.
• 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.
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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........................................................................................................................................................ 33
Connecting input devices.........................................................................................................................................35
Turning the power on/off........................................................................................................................................ 36
Setting the guide sound (first time starting up)...................................................................................................38
Setting the language shown (first time starting up)............................................................................................ 39
Setting the date format (first time starting up)....................................................................................................40
Setting the date and time (first time starting up)................................................................................................41
Setting the type of batteries used (first time starting up)..................................................................................43
Preventing misoperation (HOLD function)............................................................................................................ 44
Making input settings............................................................................................................................................... 45
Setting the recording direction and mic pickup pattern.....................................................................................45
Using plug-in power.................................................................................................................................................. 46
Reducing noise (Lo Cut)............................................................................................................................................48
Switching the stereo/mono setting for mics connected to the MIC/LINE IN jack............................................49
Making output settings............................................................................................................................................ 51
Changing how the output level is adjusted.......................................................................................................... 52
Adjusting the output level when set to fixed volume control............................................................................54
Recording.................................................................................................................................................................... 56
Monitoring input sounds..........................................................................................................................................56
Adjusting the monitoring mix of the mic inputs.................................................................................................. 58
Making recording settings........................................................................................................................................60
Recording.................................................................................................................................................................... 83
Adding markers during recording.......................................................................................................................... 85
Moving the file being recorded to the TRASH folder.......................................................................................... 86
Playing recordings..................................................................................................................................................... 87
Starting and stopping playback.............................................................................................................................. 87
Adjusting the levels of mics.....................................................................................................................................89
Selecting files for playback (File List Screen)........................................................................................................ 91
Changing the file format and exporting files........................................................................................................92
Adding/deleting markers in recorded files............................................................................................................96
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Repeating playback of a set interval (A-B repeat)................................................................................................99
Changing the playback speed (Playback Speed)................................................................................................ 101
Moving the file being played to the TRASH folder............................................................................................ 102
Setting repeat playback (Play Mode)................................................................................................................... 103
Managing files..........................................................................................................................................................105
H2essential folder and file structure................................................................................................................... 105
Using as an audio interface.................................................................................................................................. 108
Installing the driver for Windows computers.....................................................................................................108
Connecting to computers, smartphones and tablets....................................................................................... 108
Adjusting the input settings and monitoring mix.............................................................................................. 112
Making output settings.......................................................................................................................................... 113
Making audio interface settings........................................................................................................................... 113
Disconnecting from computers, smartphones and tablets..............................................................................119
Transferring files to computers and other devices........................................................................................... 120
Connecting to computers, smartphones and tablets....................................................................................... 120
Disconnecting from computers, smartphones and tablets..............................................................................123
Managing microSD cards....................................................................................................................................... 124
Formatting microSD cards..................................................................................................................................... 124
Testing microSD cards............................................................................................................................................126
Deleting files in the TRASH folder........................................................................................................................ 130
Making various settings......................................................................................................................................... 132
Setting the language shown..................................................................................................................................132
Setting the date and time......................................................................................................................................134
Setting the date format..........................................................................................................................................137
Setting the display brightness...............................................................................................................................139
Setting the LED brightness.................................................................................................................................... 141
Setting the type of batteries used........................................................................................................................143
Setting display power saving.................................................................................................................................145
Setting the time until the power turns off automatically................................................................................. 147
Using the guide sound accessibility feature....................................................................................................... 149
Setting the guide sound (Accessibility)................................................................................................................ 149
Setting the guide sound volume.......................................................................................................................... 152
Checking guide sound information......................................................................................................................154
Turning the guide sound on/off with a shortcut............................................................................................... 156
Installing guide sounds.......................................................................................................................................... 156
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
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H2essential metadata list...................................................................................................................................... 166
Mixer block diagrams............................................................................................................................................. 170
Specifications........................................................................................................................................................... 171
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H2essential overview
FRONT
R
L
MONO
120°90°
REAR
MONO
120°90°
Recording mode overview
With the H2essential, recording directions and mic pick up patterns can be set according to purpose.
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Recording direction settings
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.
■ FRONT+REAR recording
This setting records from both the front and rear of the H2essential. Use this when surrounded by the
sound sources being recorded.
In addition to separate FRONT and REAR recording files, a mix of both FRONT and REAR can be
simultaneously recorded.
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Pickup pattern settings
MONO
120°90°
■ 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.
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■ 90º/120º (stereo) pickup pattern
L R
L R
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.
In addition, by enabling MS RAW recording, mid and side audio can be recorded as is, allowing the stereo
width to be adjusted afterward. (→Recording with MS RAW format)
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Recording examples
FRONT
120°90°
REAR
120°
90°
R
L
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.
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Example 2: Face-to-face podcast recording
FRONT
MONO
REAR
MONO
RL
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.
In this case, the audio of the mixed file will be recorded bidirectionally.
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Example 3: Recording while playing and singing
REAR
120°90°
R
L
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.
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Example 4: Stage recording
FRONT
120°90°
FRONT
120°
90°
REAR
120°90°
R
L
R
L
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.
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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.
Due to these advantages, the audio quality of recording can be maintained afterward when editing in a
DAW or other software.
Resolution advantage
32-bit float WAV files have the advantage of being able to maintain high resolution even at low volumes. As
a result, quiet sounds can be made louder when editing after recording without degrading their quality.
■ 16/24-bit WAV
Resolution is low
Level raised
■ 32-bit float WAV
Level raised
Resolution is high
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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.
■ 16/24-bit WAV
Clipped recording Still clipped
Level lowered
■ 32-bit float WAV
Clipped recording Not clipped
Level lowered
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Functions of parts
Top and bottom
■ Top ■ Bottom
REC button
❶
This starts and stops recording.
The REC button lights during recording.
FRONT button
❷
Press this to enable recording toward the front. The FRONT button will light when enabled.
REAR button
❸
Press this to enable recording toward the rear. The REAR button will light when enabled.
When an external mic is connected to the MIC/LINE IN jack, REAR recording cannot be enabled.
Pickup pattern selection buttons
❹
These determine whether tracks are recorded in mono or stereo and the stereo width.
Select from one of the following. The selected button will light.
• MONO: mono (hypercardioid pickup pattern)
• 90º: stereo (90º MS stereo)
• 120º: stereo (120º MS stereo)
Tripod mounting thread
❺
This can be used to attach the H2essential to a tripod, for example.
microSD card slot
❻
Insert a microSD card here.
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Front and rear
■ Rear (display side) ■ Front (battery side)
Built-in mic
❶
Comprised of three mic capsules, this mic can achieve hypercardioid and MS stereo (90º/120º) pickup
patterns in both front and rear directions.
Display
❷
This shows various types of information.
MIXER button (operation button 1)
❸
When the Home Screen is open, this opens the Mixer Screen.
When any screen other than the Home Screen is open, this has the function of the icon shown at the
bottom of the display. (→Using operation buttons 1–4)
LO/CUT button (operation button 2)
❹
When the Home Screen is open, this changes the LO CUT setting.
When any screen other than the Home Screen is open, this has the function of the icon shown at the
bottom of the display. (→Using operation buttons 1–4)
MARKER button (operation button 3)
❺
When the Home Screen is open, this adds a marker to the recording.
When any screen other than the Home Screen is open, this has the function of the icon shown at the
bottom of the display. (→Using operation buttons 1–4)
TRASH button (operation button 4)
❻
When the Home Screen is open, this moves the recorded file to the trash.
When the Playback Screen is open, this moves the playing file to the trash.
When any screen other than the Home Screen or Playback Screen is open, this has the function of the
icon shown at the bottom of the display. (→Using operation buttons 1–4)
STOP button
❼
When recording, this stops recording.
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When the Playback Screen is open, this stops playback. Pressing this again when stopped will return to
the Home Screen (from most screens).
REW button
❽
Press during playback or when paused to move to the previous file, the beginning of the file, or the
previous marker.
Press and hold to search backward.
PLAY/PAUSE button
❾
This starts and pauses playback.
FF button
❿
Press during playback or when paused to move to the next file or the next marker.
Press and hold to search forward.
MENU button
⓫
Press this to open the Menu Screen.
When a screen other than the Menu Screen or Playback Options Screen is open, this returns to the
Home Screen.
When the Playback Options Screen is open, this returns to the Playback Screen.
Speaker
⓬
Sound is output here during file playback.
If headphones are connected to the PHONE/LINE OUT jack, sound will not be output from the speaker.
Battery cover
⓭
Open this when installing or removing AA batteries. (→Installing batteries)
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■ Using operation buttons 1–4
When operation icons appear at the bottom of the display, including on the Menu Screen, Playback Screen,
and Playback Options Screen, press the operation keys directly below them to select or confirm items on
that screen.
■ Menu Screen example
Operation icons shown on screen
❶
The icons shown depend on the screen.
Operation button 1 ( ) (MIXER)
❷
This returns to the previous screen.
Operation button 2 ( ) (LO CUT)
❸
This selects the item above.
Operation button 3 ( ) (MARKER)
❹
This selects the item below.
Operation button 4 ( ) (TRASH)
❺
This confirms the selected item.
Other operation icons will appear. They are explained in the procedures for each item.
■ Note about procedure abbreviations in this operation manual
In this operation manual, procedures that include pressing operation buttons to conduct operations use
icons and are abbreviated as follows.
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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’
and press (operation button 4) to confirm.”
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Left and right sides
■ Left side
■ Right side
PHONE/LINE OUT jack
❶
Use this stereo mini jack to output sound to headphones or a connected device.
VOLUME
❷
This adjusts the output to the built-in speaker, headphones and connected device.
USB port (Type-C)
❸
Connect this to a computer, smartphone or tablet to use file transfer functions and to use the
H2essential as an audio interface.
This supports operation on USB bus power.
POWER/HOLD switch
❹
Use this to turn the power on/off and to disable button operation.
REMOTE connector
❺
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.
MIC/LINE IN jack (supports plug-in power)
❻
A connected mic can be used to record.
Mics that require plug-in power can be used with this jack.
When an external mic is connected to the MIC/LINE IN jack, REAR recording is disabled.
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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.
When recording starts, the name of the file being recorded is shown at the top of the screen.
Status icon
❶
The recording status is shown by an icon.
• Stopped
• Recording
Available recording time / recorded time
❷
This shows the available recording time when recording is paused and the current elapsed recording
time when recording.
Sample rate
❸
This shows the current sample rate setting. (→Setting the sample rate)
MS RAW recording indicator
❹
This shows the MS RAW recording status. (→Recording with MS RAW format)
LO CUT indicator
❺
This shows the LO CUT setting. Nothing will be shown when set to OFF. (→Reducing noise (Lo Cut))
Remaining battery indicator
❻
This is shown when operating on batteries. When the remaining battery charge becomes low, replace
the batteries (→Installing batteries) or connect an AC adapter (→Connecting an AC adapter) or
portable battery (→Using other power sources).
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Waveform display (FRONT/REAR)
❼
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. This function is useful when you want to return to the Home Screen quickly from various setting
screens. (Moving to the Home Screen is not possible from some screens.)
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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.
Status icon
❶
The playback status is shown by an icon.
• Playing back
• Paused
• Searching backward
• Searching forward
Playback time
❷
This shows the elapsed time since the start of playback.
File length
❸
This shows the length of the file currently playing.
Remaining battery indicator
❹
This is shown when operating on batteries. When the remaining battery charge becomes low, replace
the batteries (→Installing batteries) or connect an AC adapter (→Connecting an AC adapter) or
portable battery (→Using other power sources).
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Waveform display (FRONT/REAR)
❺
This shows the waveform of the files being played. The parts of the waveforms that have already been
played appear green.
The positions of markers can also be checked. (→Adding markers during recording, Adding/deleting
markers in recorded files)
Marker bar
❻
This shows a marker added to the file being played back.
❼
This opens the Playback Options Screen where the following can be done.
• Adjusting the levels of mics
• Selecting files for playback (File List Screen)
• Changing the playback speed (Playback Speed)
• Setting repeat playback (Play Mode)
• Adding/deleting markers in recorded files
• Repeating playback of a set interval (A-B repeat)
• Changing the file format and exporting files
❽
This moves the file playback position back 3 seconds.
❾
This moves the file playback position forward 10 seconds.
❿
Use this to move the file being played to the TRASH folder. (→Moving the file being played to the
TRASH folder)
(Operation button 1)
(Operation button 2)
(Operation button 3)
(Operation button 4)
HINT
Press the (STOP) button when playback is stopped to return to the Home Screen.
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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.
Playback option items
❶
This shows setting items and setting values, for example.
Operation icons
❷
Press operation buttons below the corresponding operation icons on the display to select option items
and confirm selected items. (→Using operation buttons 1–4)
Remaining battery indicator
❸
This is shown when operating on batteries. When the remaining battery charge becomes low, replace
the batteries (→Installing batteries) or connect an AC adapter (→Connecting an AC adapter) or
portable battery (→Using other power sources).
Scrollbar
❹
This will appear when a list has more items than will fit on the display.
HINT
Press the (MENU) button to return to the Playback Screen.
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Mixer Screen
Screen during playback
Press the (MIXER) button to open this.
Use this to adjust the levels of the tracks.
Status icon
❶
The playback status is shown by an icon.
• Recording
• Recording paused
• Playing back
• Playback paused
• Searching backward
• Searching forward
Elapsed recording time / playback time
❷
During recording, this shows the current elapsed recording time.
During playback, this shows the elapsed time since the start of playback.
Sample rate
❸
This shows the current sample rate setting. (→Setting the sample rate)
MS RAW recording indicator
❹
This shows the MS RAW recording status. (→Recording with MS RAW format)
LO CUT indicator
❺
This shows the LO CUT setting. Nothing will be shown when set to OFF. (→Reducing noise (Lo Cut))
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Remaining battery indicator
❻
This is shown when operating on batteries. When the remaining battery charge becomes low, replace
the batteries (→Installing batteries) or connect an AC adapter (→Connecting an AC adapter) or
portable battery (→Using other power sources).
Level setting indicator
❼
These show the level settings for each track.
Level meters
❽
The level meters show the monitoring levels for each track.
Track status
❾
These show the names and statuses of tracks.
• FRONT enabled
• FRONT disabled
A muted icon will be shown in the level meter area when a track is disabled.
Operation icons
❿
Press operation buttons below the corresponding operation icons on the display to select option items
and confirm selected items. (→Using operation buttons 1–4)
Stereo mix track
⓫
These level meters show the monitoring levels of the stereo mix.
File length
⓬
This shows the length of the file currently playing.
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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.
Menu title
❶
Menu items
❷
This shows setting items and setting values, for example.
Operation icons
❸
Press operation buttons below the corresponding operation icons on the display to select menu items
and confirm selected items. (→Using operation buttons 1–4)
Remaining battery indicator
❹
This is shown when operating on batteries. When the remaining battery charge becomes low, replace
the batteries (→Installing batteries) or connect an AC adapter (→Connecting an AC adapter) or
portable battery (→Using other power sources).
Scrollbar
❺
This will appear when a list has more items than will fit on the display.
HINT
When the Menu Screen is open, press the (MENU) button to return to the Home Screen. This function
is useful when you want to return to the Home Screen quickly from various setting screens. (Moving to the
Home Screen is not possible from some screens.)
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Recording process
Recording follows the process shown below.
• Load a microSD card. (→Inserting microSD cards)
• Prepare the power. (→Installing batteries, Connecting an AC adapter)
• Turn the power on. (→Turning the power on)
• Make settings related to input. (→Making input settings)
• Make settings related to recording. (→Making recording settings)
• Press the (REC) button to start recording and press the
(REC) or (STOP) button to stop recording. (→Recording)
• Press the (PLAY/PAUSE) button to start playback and press the
(STOP) button to stop it. (→Playing recordings)
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Making preparations
Inserting microSD cards
1. 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.
2. Close the microSD card slot cover.
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NOTE
• Always make certain that the power is off when inserting or removing a microSD card. Inserting or
removing a card while the power is on could result in data loss.
• When inserting a microSD card, be sure to insert the correct end with the top side up.
• Recording and playback are not possible when a microSD card is not loaded in the H2essential.
• Always format microSD cards in order to maximize their performance after purchasing them new or
using them with a different device. (→Formatting microSD cards)
• A message will open when a card that has not been used with the H2essential before is loaded in it.
When the SD Card Testing Screen opens, test the SD card. (→Testing microSD cards)
• The following types of recording media are supported.
- 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.
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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.
Installing batteries
Use 2 AA batteries when operating the H2essential on battery power.
1. When the power is off, open the battery cover by sliding it down while pushing it.
2. Install 2 AA batteries.
3. Replace the battery cover.
NOTE
• Use only one type of battery (alkaline, NiMH or lithium) at a time.
• Set the type of battery used correctly so that the amount of remaining battery charge can be shown
accurately. (→Setting the type of batteries used)
• If the batteries run out of charge, turn the power off immediately and install new batteries. The battery
charge will always be shown when operating on battery power.
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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).
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Connecting input devices
Using the built-in mics
The H2essential has three mic capsules, and is capable of recording to both the front and rear with
hypercardioid pickup patterns and in mid-side stereo.
With independent unidirectional mics for both the front and rear directions and a bidirectional mic to
the sides, in addition to mono recording, mid-side stereo recording is also possible with selectable stereo
widths of 120° and 90°.
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.
NOTE
• When using a lavalier mic, enable plug-in power. (→Using plug-in power)
• When using the MIC/LINE IN jack, the REAR mic cannot also be used.
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Turning the power on/off
Turning the power on
1. Slide the (POWER/HOLD) switch toward (toward the unit bottom) until the display
becomes active.
After the Startup Screen is shown, the Home Screen will open on the display.
The first time the power is turned on after purchase as well as when the H2essential has been reset
to factory defaults, setting screens for the guide sound, display language and date and time will be
shown. Make these settings. (→Setting the guide sound (first time starting up), Setting the language
shown (first time starting up), Setting the date format (first time starting up), Setting the date and time
(first time starting up), 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
time. (→Setting the time until the power turns off automatically)
• If “No SD Card!” appears on the display, confirm that a microSD card is inserted properly. (→Inserting
microSD cards)
• If “Invalid SD Card!” appears on the display, the card is not formatted correctly. Format the microSD card
or use a different microSD card. (→Formatting microSD cards, Inserting microSD cards)
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■ Turning the power off
1. Slide the (POWER/HOLD) switch toward (away from the unit bottom) until “Please wait.
Saving data…” appears on the display.
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.
• The power cannot be turned off while recording. Turn the power off after recording stops.
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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.
1. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select a setting, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm it.
Setting Explanation
ABC + Beep
(“ABC” shows the installed
language.)
Beep Only A beeping sound will be used to notify when error messages occur,
Off This turns off the guide sound.
After the guide sound setting is confirmed, set the language shown when a screen to set it opens.
(→Setting the language shown (first time starting up))
NOTE
The volume of the guide sound can also be adjusted. (→Setting the guide sound volume)
Setting items will be read aloud in the installed language. A beeping
sound will be used to notify the occurrence of error messages,
recording starting/stopping and volume adjustment, for example.
English is installed at the time of purchase, but other languages
can be installed and used for reading as desired. (→Installing guide
sounds)
recording starts/stops and the volume changes, for example. Nothing
will be read aloud.
HINT
• The guide sound setting can also be changed later on the Menu Screen. (→Setting the guide sound
(Accessibility))
• The guide sound can be turned on/off immediately by pressing and holding the (MENU) button
when the Home Screen is open. (→Turning the guide sound on/off with a shortcut)
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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.
1. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the language shown, and
press (operation button 4) to confirm it.
After the display language setting is confirmed, set the date format when a screen to set it opens.
(→Setting the date format (first time starting up))
HINT
• The language shown setting can also be changed later on the Menu Screen. (→Setting the language
shown)
• Select (operation button 1) to return to the previous settings screen.
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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.
1. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “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.
Setting Explanation
YYMMDD The date is shown in year, month, day order.
MMDDYY The date is shown in month, day, year order.
DDMMYY The date is shown in day, month, year order.
After the date format setting is confirmed, set the date and time when a screen to set them opens.
(→Setting the date and time (first time starting up))
HINT
• The date format setting can also be changed later on the Menu Screen. (→Setting the date format)
• Select (operation button 1) to return to the previous settings screen.
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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.
1. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the desired setting item,
and press (operation button 4) to confirm selection.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to change the value, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm it.
3. Repeat steps 1–2 to set the date and time.
4. After setting all items, use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the
(OK) button, and press (operation button 4) to confirm them.
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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.
HINT
• The date and time setting can also be changed later from the Menu Screen. (→Setting the date and time)
• Select (operation button 1) to return to the previous settings screen.
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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. This is necessary to accurately show the remaining battery charge on the display.
1. Use (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 Alkaline batteries
Ni-MH Nickel-metal hydride batteries
Lithium Lithium batteries
After first-time settings are complete, the Home Screen will open.
HINT
• The battery type setting can be changed later on the Menu Screen. (→Setting the type of batteries used)
• Select (operation button 1) to return to the previous settings screen.
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Preventing misoperation (HOLD function)
In order to prevent misoperation, the hold function can be used to disable the buttons on the H2essential.
1. Slide the (POWER/HOLD) switch toward “HOLD” (toward the unit top).
This turns on the HOLD function, disabling operations using all buttons.
To deactivate the HOLD function, slide the (POWER/HOLD) switch back to the center position.
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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.
1. Press the (FRONT) button to enable recording in the front direction and the (REAR) button
to enable recording in the rear direction.
Pressing these buttons switches them between enabled (button lit) and disabled (button unlit).
NOTE
When the MIC/LINE IN jack is connected, REAR recording cannot be enabled.
Selecting mic pickup patterns
Whether tracks are recorded in mono or stereo and the stereo width can be selected.
Select one of the following pickup patterns.
Setting Explanation
120° Stereo recording (120° MS stereo)
90° Stereo recording (90° MS stereo)
MONO Mono recording (hypercardioid pickup pattern)
1. Press a pickup pattern button to select the pickup pattern used for recording.
Pressing these buttons switches them between enabled (button lit) and disabled (button unlit).
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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.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Input” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Plugin Power” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “On”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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Reducing noise (Lo Cut)
Low frequencies can be cut to reduce the sound of wind and vocal pop noises, for example.
1. 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.
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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”.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Input” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “MIC/LINE IN” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
4. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Stereo” or “Mono Mix”
and press (operation button 4) to confirm.
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NOTE
The sound output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack and the sound during USB mic operation is also switched.
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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
can increase the amount of operation time when using batteries.
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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. This will cause sound to be output at the level set as explained in
“Adjusting the output level when set to fixed volume control”.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Output” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Volume Control”, and
press (operation button 4) to confirm.
4. Use (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
Use the (VOLUME) dial to adjust the output level.
Fixed
Adjustment of the (VOLUME) dial has no effect.
The output level can be adjusted as explained in “Adjusting the
output level when set to fixed volume control”.
NOTE
The speaker volume can be adjusted using the (VOLUME) dial regardless of this setting.
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Adjusting the output level when set to fixed volume
control
The output level when “Volume Control” is set to “Fixed” can be adjusted. (→Changing how the output level
is adjusted)
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Output” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Fixed Level”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (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.
• Selecting “Mute” silences output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack.
NOTE
• See the manual of the connected device for information about its operation.
• If the automatic gain control function on the other device is on, turn it off.
• The level adjusted here does not affect the recorded audio or the audio level output from the USB port.
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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.
The stereo file is recorded with the mix of signals set on the Mixer Screen. (→Adjusting the monitoring mix
of the mic inputs)
NOTE
• The recorder can be set to not record a mixed stereo file. (→Setting whether to record mix files)
• For details about recorded files, see “H2essential folder and file structure”.
Monitoring input sounds
Use headphones, for example, to monitor input sounds and adjust the volume.
1. Connect headphones, for example, to the PHONE/LINE OUT jack.
2. Use the (VOLUME) dial to adjust the volume.
The volume is shown on the display while the volume is being adjusted.
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NOTE
• The volume output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack is also affected by volume adjustments made on the
Mixer Screen. (→Adjusting the monitoring mix of the mic inputs)
• When nothing is connected to the PHONE/LINE OUT jack, operating the (VOLUME) dial will
change the speaker volume.
• The built-in speaker cannot be used for monitoring while recording.
• When “Volume Control” is set to “Fixed”, the (VOLUME) dial cannot be used to adjust the
volume. To use the (VOLUME) dial for volume adjustment, set “Volume Control” to “Knob”.
(→Making output settings)
HINT
• When monitoring with headphones is unnecessary, disconnecting headphones from the PHONE/LINE
OUT jack can increase the amount of operation time when using batteries.
• The level of each input can also be adjusted separately. (→Adjusting the monitoring mix of the mic
inputs)
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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.
1. Press the (MIXER) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Mixer Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the input for level
adjustment, and press (operation button 4) to confirm selection.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the level, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
This confirms the adjusted level.
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4. 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.
• Level adjustments on the Mixer Screen do not affect the signals recorded from each input.
HINT
Each input can be set to “Mute” or from -80 to +40.
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Making recording settings
Setting the sample rate
The sample rate used to record files can be set.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Sample Rate”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the sample rate, and
press (operation button 4) to confirm.
The following sample rates can be selected.
44.1 kHz, 48 kHz, 96 kHz
NOTE
• 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
kHz. (→Using as an audio interface)
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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. The stereo width can be adjusted during post-production
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Stereo Format”, and
press (operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (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.
NOTE
• When recording in MS RAW, use a pickup pattern button to select 120° or 90°.
• Files recorded in MS RAW will have “_RAW” added to the ends of their file names.
• MS raw is not supported when recording mics connected to the MIC/LINE IN jack. In this case, recording
will be in normal stereo even if “MS RAW” is selected.
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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.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Mix File”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Off”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
This disables recording of mix files.
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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.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Pre Rec” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (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 (→Setting the sample rate).
Sample rate Pre-recording time
44.1 kHz 2 seconds
48 kHz 2 seconds
96 kHz 1 second
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Recording automatically (Auto Rec)
Recording can start automatically when the input sound exceeds a set level.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Auto Rec” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “On/Off”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
5. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “On”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
6. Use (operation button 1) to return to the previous screen.
7. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Start Level”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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8. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the recording start level
( ), and press (operation button 4) to confirm selection.
9. Press the (MENU) button.
This opens the Recording Standby Screen.
10.Press the (REC) button on the Recording Standby Screen.
Automatic recording standby will start and the REC button will light red.
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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.
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Stopping recording automatically (Auto Stop)
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Auto Rec” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
4. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Auto Stop” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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5. Use (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.
6. Use (operation button 1) to return to the previous screen.
7. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Stop Level”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
8. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the recording stop level
(❶), and press (operation button 4) to confirm selection.
Recording will stop automatically when the input signal stays below the set level for the amount of
time set in step 5.
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Enabling the recording start tone
Half-second tone signals (recording start tones) can be output from the PHONE/LINE OUT jack when
recording is started.
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.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec Start Tone”, and
press (operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the volume of the
recording start tone, and press (operation button 4) to confirm.
The following volumes can be selected.
OFF, –40 dBFS, –20 dBFS, –12 dBFS, –6 dBFS
No recording start tone will be played if “OFF” is selected.
5. Use a stereo mini jack cable to connect the input jack of the camera to the H2essential PHONE/LINE
OUT jack.
NOTE
Be careful with the volume if you are monitoring the input sound with headphones connected to the
camera, for example.
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Setting the self-timer
After pressing the (REC) button, recording will start automatically after the set time passes.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Self Timer”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (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
5. Press the (MENU) button.
This opens the Home Screen.
6. Press the (REC) button.
This starts a countdown.
Countdown (seconds)
❶
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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
disabled. (→Recording automatically (Auto Rec))
HINT
• During the countdown, the (REC) button can be pressed to start recording immediately.
• During the countdown, the (STOP) button can be pressed to cancel it.
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Setting the recording time display
Whether the elapsed recording time or the remaining available recording time is shown during recording
can be selected.
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec Counter” and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (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.
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Writing metadata (iXML chunks) to recording files
Various related information (metadata) stored in iXML chunks can be written to recorded files. (→Metadata
contained in iXML chunks in WAV files)
1. Press the (MENU) button when the Home Screen is open.
This opens the Menu Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Rec”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Metadata (iXML)”, and
press (operation button 4) to confirm.
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4. Use (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. If problems occur
with files when using an application, turning off metadata writing might resolve them.
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Recording
1. 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.
The elapsed recording time or the remaining recordable time is shown when recording. (→Setting the
recording time display)
NOTE
The file name will be the date followed by the hour, minute and second using the set date and time (Setting
the date and time). The date will be shown using numbers in the set order (Setting the date format).
For details about file names, see “Recording file names”.
2. To stop, press the (REC) or (STOP) button.
Slide the (POWER/HOLD) switch toward HOLD (toward the unit top) to prevent misoperation
while recording. (→Preventing misoperation (HOLD function))
NOTE
If the file size exceeds 2 GB during recording, a new file will be created automatically and recording will
continue without pause. No gap in sound will occur between the two files when this happens.
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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. Press the (PLAY/PAUSE) button
again to resume recording.
Pausing will automatically add a marker at that point.
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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
1. Press the (MARKER) button during recording.
This will add a marker at the position of the current elapsed recording time.
NOTE
• A maximum of 99 markers can be added to a single file.
• Use the Playback Screen to delete markers. (→Deleting markers)
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Moving the file being recorded to the TRASH folder
The file being recorded can be moved to the trash. This function is convenient when, for example, a
recording was not good enough.
1. Press the (TRASH) button during recording.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Execute”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
This will stop recording and move the file being recorded to the trash. (→H2essential folder and file
structure)
Select “Cancel” and press (operation button 4) to cancel the operation and continue
recording.
NOTE
• 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
and use a computer, smartphone or tablet. (→Transferring files to computers and other devices)
• The files in the trash can all be deleted at the same time. (→Deleting files in the TRASH folder)
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Playing recordings
Starting and stopping playback
1. 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
adjusted separately for each track. (→Adjusting the levels of mics)
Files can be selected from the File List Screen for playback. (→Selecting files for playback (File List
Screen))
NOTE
When “Volume Control” is set to “Fixed”, the (VOLUME) dial cannot be used to adjust the
headphone volume. To use the (VOLUME) dial for volume adjustment, set “Volume Control”
to “Knob”. (→Changing how the output level is adjusted)
2. Press the (STOP) button.
This stops playback and returns to the beginning of the file.
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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. This operation is only possible with tracks that have been recorded.
• The stereo width of files that have been recorded using the MS RAW setting can be changed by pressing
the 90° and 120° buttons during playback.
• These settings are also applied when exporting.
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Adjusting the levels of mics
1. Press (Operation button 1) on the Playback Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Mixer”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
This opens the Mixer Screen.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the track for level
adjustment, and press (operation button 4) to confirm selection.
4. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to set the level, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
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This confirms the adjusted level.
5. Repeat steps 2–3 to balance the levels overall.
NOTE
Volume adjustments made on the Mixer Screen can be applied to files created when exporting. (→Changing
the file format and exporting files)
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Selecting files for playback (File List Screen)
The File List Screen can be opened and playback files selected.
1. Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the file you want to view in a list.
This opens the Playback Options Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “File List”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select a file, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
This opens the Playback Screen and starts playback of the selected file.
HINT
The (REW) and (FF) buttons can also be used to select files.
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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.
In addition, exported tracks can be normalized to optimize the volumes of recorded files.
1. Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the file you want to export.
This opens the Playback Options Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Export”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
3. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select the bit depth, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
The following formats can be selected.
16-bit, 24-bit, 32-bit Float
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4. Use (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
Screen. (→Adjusting the monitoring mix of the mic inputs)
All This exports all the tracks separately.
5. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Range”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
The following options can be selected.
A–B, All
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6. Use (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. The volume is adjusted to the maximum possible without causing the loudest sound
(peak) in the data to distort.
7. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Execute”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
Select “Cancel” and press (operation button 4) to cancel the operation.
To cancel during an export, press (operation button 1).
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8. When “Done!” appears after exporting finishes, press (operation button 1).
This reopens the Playback Screen.
NOTE
• Exported files saved in the Export folder are named in this format: FF_BB_NN.WAV.
- FF: Name of original file that was exported
- BB: Bit depth (“16” when 16-bit selected, “24” when 24-bit selected)
- 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.
• In this case, normalization will be applied to all the separate files together and use the highest overall
level as the reference level.
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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
1. Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the file you want to add markers to.
This opens the Playback Options Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Mark”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
This opens the Marker Operation Screen.
3. Use (PLAY/PAUSE), (FF), (REW), (operation button 2) and (operation
button 3) to move the playback position to where you want to add a marker, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
Current playback position
❶
A marker will be added at the current playback position.
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4. 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.
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Deleting markers
1. Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the file you want to remove markers
from.
This opens the Playback Options Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “Mark”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
This opens the Marker Operation Screen.
3. Use and to move the playback position to the marker you want to delete, and press
(operation but 4) to confirm.
When the playback position has moved to a marker, (operation button 4) becomes
(operation button 4).
Position of marker to be deleted
❶
4. Press (operation button 1).
This reopens the Playback Options Screen.
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Repeating playback of a set interval (A-B repeat)
Playback can be repeated between two set points.
1. Press (operation button 1) on the Playback Screen of the file you want to set for repeat
playback.
This opens the Playback Options Screen.
2. Use (operation button 2) and (operation button 3) to select “A-B Repeat”, and press
(operation button 4) to confirm.
This opens the A-B Repeat Screen.
3. Press the (PLAY/PAUSE) button to start playback or press and hold the (REW) or (FF)
button to move to the desired starting position (A point) for repeat playback. Then, press
(operation button 2) to confirm it.
The section before the set point will appear gray.
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4. 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.
5. Press (operation button 1) when finished setting.
This reopens the Playback Options Screen.
NOTE
To cancel or change A-B repeat settings, press (operation button 4) to reset the settings.
HINT
Since moving the A (playback start) and B (playback end) points during playback allows these positions to be
confirmed in real time, they can be set while checking the playback sound.
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