ZOOM H5studio Handy Recorder Quick Tour
This document provides a quick tour of the ZOOM H5studio Handy Recorder, covering its features and basic operations.
Getting Started
Inserting microSD cards: Supported media include microSDHC and microSDXC memory cards. It is recommended to use cards confirmed to work with the product. Always turn off the power before inserting or removing a card. To remove, push the card further into the slot and then pull it out.
Turning the power on: Insert AA batteries (alkaline, nickel-metal hydride, or lithium) into the battery compartment. Extend the battery ribbon underneath and replace the battery cover. Press the power button to turn the unit on.
Battery Precautions: Do not use batteries with damaged covers or exteriors. Do not mix different types or brands of batteries. Do not mix new and old batteries. Remove dead batteries promptly and remove batteries when not in use for extended periods.
Power Options: Besides AA batteries, a dedicated AC adapter (ZOOM AD-17) or a commercially available portable USB battery can also be used.
Initial Settings
When first turned on, the device will guide you through initial settings. Use the selection dial and ENTER button to navigate and confirm options.
Accessibility Setting: Features like 'Guide Sound' (Voice + Beep, Beep Only, Off) are available to assist users with vision impairments. Volume can be adjusted using the VOLUME dial.
Language Setting: Select your preferred language from the list (English, Français, Deutsch, Italiano, Español).
Date Format Setting: Choose the desired format for year, month, and day (e.g., YYMMDD, MMDDYY, DDMMYY). This format is used in recording file names.
Date and Time Settings: Set the current date and time by selecting items and confirming values.
Battery Type Setting: Select the type of battery used (Alkaline, Ni-MH, Lithium) for accurate remaining charge indication.
SD Card Testing: It is recommended to run SD card tests. A 'Quick Test' checks performance in about 30 seconds, while a 'Full Test' checks the entire card (approx. 1.5 hours for 64 GB).
Using the H5studio
Home Screen: Displays status icons, counter (elapsed/remaining recording times), remaining battery indicator, waveform display, and level meters.
Menu Bar: Accessible by turning the selection dial, it allows navigation to FILE LIST, INPUT, OUTPUT, REC, DISPLAY, SD CARD, USB, and SYSTEM menus.
Preparing to Record:
- Connecting Equipment: Connect headphones to the headphone jack. External microphones can be connected via the MIC/LINE IN jack or the XY mic capsule. Connect to PA mixers or keyboards via the INPUT 1/2 jacks.
- Enabling Tracks for Recording: Press track buttons (1, 2) to enable them for recording; the indicator will light red.
- Selecting Recording Mode: Choose between '16/24bit Fixed' (smaller file size, requires level adjustment) and '32bit Float' (prevents clipping).
- Making Input Settings: Adjust MIC input levels using MIC GAIN knobs. Adjust INPUT 1/2 levels using INPUT 1/2 GAIN knobs. Settings include Low Cut, Advanced Limiter, Mono Mix, Plugin Power, and linking options for gain knobs.
Tips to Improve Recording Sound Quality: Avoid placing the H5studio directly on a table to prevent reflected sound. Using a tripod or placing a handkerchief can help reduce reflections.
Adjusting the Volume: Confirm level meters are moving and adjust the overall volume balance. For 16/24bit Fixed, aim for level meters around -12 dB. Clipping indicators light at 0 dB.
Adjusting Monitoring Volume: Use the VOLUME dial on the side to adjust the output to headphones.
Recording: Press the REC button to start recording (indicator lights red). Press the STOP button to stop. Slide the HOLD switch to prevent accidental operation during recording.
Using the Recording Screen: Options include MARK (add marker), OUTPUT (set line output), DISPLAY (configure screen view), TRASH (move file to trash), and PAUSE/RESUME (pause and resume recording, adding markers upon resume).
Playing Recordings
Using the Playback Screen: Press the PLAY/PAUSE button to start/pause playback. Use the FILE LIST to access recordings. Other functions include AB REPEAT, OUTPUT, OPTION (normalize, set mode/speed), and EXPORT.
Navigation: Use the buttons to move between files, to the beginning of a file, or to marks. Press and hold for fast search.
Using the Mixer: Turn the selection dial during playback to select faders and adjust track levels. Mixer settings are saved automatically.
Press the STOP button to stop playback and return to the Home Screen.
Other Functions
USB Functions:
- Audio Interface: Connect to a computer, smartphone, or tablet as a 2-in/2-out or 4-in/2-out audio interface. A driver may be needed for Windows computers (download from zoomcorp.com/help/h5studio).
- File Transfer: Connect to a computer, smartphone, or tablet to check and move files on the microSD card. Use a USB cable that supports data transfer.
Connecting a Dedicated Wireless Adapter (BTA-1): Allows wireless control from an iPhone/iPad using the ZOOM Handy Control & Sync app.
UltraSync BLUE: Transmits timecode for synchronized audio and video recording when used with a video camera and the UltraSync BLUE device.
Troubleshooting
Sound is not output or volume is very low: Check cable connections, headphone volume, and line output levels. Ensure MIC or INPUT 1/2 tracks are enabled and adjust input volume. Check mic orientation and connected equipment settings. Supply phantom power for condenser mics or plug-in power for compatible mics. Check mixer settings (faders/muted tracks).
Monitored sound is distorted: Adjust output volume or input volume as needed. Increase distance from the sound source or lower the connected device's volume.
"MIC INPUT OVERLOAD!" or "INPUT 1 (2) OVERLOAD!" appears: Input sound is too loud. Increase distance from the sound source or lower the volume. Use the low cut setting to reduce wind noise and vocal pops. Consider using a windscreen.
Recording is not possible: Ensure MIC or INPUT 1/2 tracks are enabled. Confirm the microSD card has free space and is loaded properly.
The recorded sound breaks up: Use the card testing function and a tested card. Use recommended microSD cards.
Not recognized when connected to a computer by USB: Use a USB cable that supports data transfer. Charging cables are not suitable for data transmission.
Date and time become reset: Ensure continuous power supply. If the Set Date/Time screen appears on startup, reset the date and time.
Operation is not possible: Confirm that the HOLD switch is not set to HOLD.
Trademarks and Copyrights
Microsoft and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft. iPad and Lightning are trademarks of Apple Inc. iPhone is used under license from Aiphone Co., Ltd. UltraSync BLUE is a trademark of ATOMOS/Timecode Systems Limited. Bluetooth® is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. microSDXC is a trademark of SD-3C LLC. USB Type-C is a trademark of the USB Implementers Forum. Other product names and company names are the property of their respective owners. Recording copyrighted material without permission is prohibited by law. ZOOM CORPORATION is not responsible for copyright infringements. Illustrations may differ from the actual product.
© 2025 ZOOM CORPORATION. All rights reserved.
ZOOM CORPORATION
4-4-3 Kanda-surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 101-0062 Japan
zoomcorp.com