Zoom Introduces the H6studio Portable Recorder

Zoom Introduces the H6studio Portable Recorder

Building on the success of the H5studio, Zoom has unveiled its latest portable recorder, the H6studio. Equipped with professional-grade preamps, larger XY microphones for greater audio detail, and 32-bit float recording that removes the need for manual gain control, the H6studio delivers high-quality sound capture with ease, wherever you go.

To begin with, the H6studio is equipped with Zoom’s F-series preamps, delivering an impressive -127 dBu EIN for exceptionally clean, low-noise sound. Paired with dual A/D converters and 32-bit float recording, the device achieves a wide dynamic range of 132 dB, ensuring every subtle detail is captured.

The built-in 19.4mm XYH-5s XY microphone capsule provides a balanced yet full response and can withstand sound pressure levels up to 140 dB SPL — equivalent to a jet engine. Arranged at a 90-degree angle, the mics form a precise XY setup, which significantly reduces phasing issues often found in non-XY stereo configurations.

Next, the inclusion of 32-bit float technology ensures smooth recording with minimal gain staging, while still giving you full professional control. Typically, recorders force you to choose: either 32-bit float, which avoids level setting but demands more post-production, or standard 16/24-bit formats, which require careful level adjustment but reduce editing work later.

The H6studio eliminates this trade-off by offering both. It supports 32-bit float recording while also featuring onboard gain control knobs. With an integrated format switch to toggle between 16/24-bit and 32-bit float, you get the best of both worlds — recordings free from clipping and with no need for excessive post-processing.

The H6studio accommodates sampling rates from 44.1 kHz up to 192 kHz, making it adaptable to a wide variety of production workflows. It is capable of recording up to eight tracks simultaneously — six discrete channels plus a stereo mix.
Keep in mind, however, that full eight-track recording is supported only at sampling rates of 96 kHz and below.

Engineered for today’s production environments, the H6studio features strong RF shielding to block interference from smartphones and Wi-Fi. To further minimize unwanted noise, its XY microphone capsule integrates a shockmount that reduces handling vibrations.

The H6studio offers four XLR-1/4” TRS combo inputs with 48V phantom power, plus a 3.5mm stereo line input. For output, it provides a 3.5mm stereo connection for cameras and a separate 3.5mm jack for headphones. A +4 dBu switch is available to handle professional line-level signals. The unit also functions as a 6×2 USB audio interface, supporting 16-, 24-, and 32-bit float recording directly to computers and mobile devices. In addition, you can live stream while simultaneously capturing a backup recording to a microSD card.

Notable final features of the H6studio include:

• Mono mode for recording interviews, narration, and vocals;
• A low-cut filter to minimize unwanted low-frequency noise;
• Normalize and export options for 16- or 24-bit WAV files;
• Variable speed playback from 0.5x to 2x;
• A-B repeat functionality for replaying recorded sections;
• A recording start tone to align audio with video;
• Ability to operate on four AA batteries for up to 15 hours.

The H6studio can also be powered via USB or an AC adapter (sold separately).

Zoom Introduces the H6studio Portable Recorder