There has been a lot of talk about 32-bit float audio in recent years. Many people saw it as their miracle cure, allowing them to ignore basic microphone principles. Well, that’s obviously not true, but 32-bit float audio certainly has its advantages.
We’ve also started to see 32-bit float audio incorporated into more and more new recorders, but I think Zoom has just taken the lead in the low-budget space. The new Zoom H1 XLR ($149.99) combines a pair of XLR inputs with 32-bit float recording for a very compact, high-quality setup.
Zoom H1 XLR – A versatile compact recorder
The Zoom H1 will be a familiar name to many filmmakers and hybrid videographers. It’s Zoom’s entry-level compact field recorder. It has a pair of built-in microphones, but also has an input that you can use for external 3.5mm microphones like the Rode VideoMic NTG ($249) or a wireless lavalier receiver.
While the Zoom H1 XLR doesn’t have built-in microphones, it does have a pair of XLR jacks as well as a 3.5mm mic/line input. It’s not quite as compact as the regular Zoom H1, but compared to other field recorders on the market, it’s extremely compact.
Despite having two XLR inputs and a stereo 3.5mm input, you can’t record all four tracks at once. You can only record two of them at a time – either in mono or stereo. However, you can supply phantom power to these XLR jacks, allowing you to use either dynamic or condenser microphones.
Also functions as a 32-bit float USB audio interface
The Zoom H1 XLR obviously works like a traditional field recorder with two XLR inputs. You can take a feed from the output of a mixer at a concert or just plug in a couple of microphones directly and you should get a great recording every time.
But what the Zoom H1 also shines at is that it can function as a 2-channel USB digital audio device. And unlike some of its contemporaries, the USB digital audio capabilities are also full 32-bit float. And for those who want to live stream and record for later refinement and editing, the Zoom H1 can also record internally while sending audio to your computer.
This is a great option for small creators and YouTubers who frequently film both in a regular studio location and outside of the studio. You can quickly and easily detach the device from the computer and camera and switch between them, or use it standalone.
32-bit float means you don’t have to worry about levels when recording. You can be as loud as you want and there won’t be clipping. However, the signal-to-noise ratio still applies – as do the laws of physics – so you still need to pay attention to good mic placement.
It’s nice to see Zoom’s lineup moving a little more towards 32-bit float now. I had been thinking about getting a Zoom F3 ($299.99) alongside my Zoom H8 ($389.90) for those rare occasions when I need 32-bit float audio. But with the release of the H1 XLR, we may soon see a new 32-bit version of the H8 and I’ll upgrade that instead!
Price and availability
The Zoom H1 XLR is available for pre-order now for $149.99, with shipping expected in the coming weeks.
