Zoom H5 4-Track Portable Recorder

Whether you're capturing a documentary interview, laying down podcast dialogue, or recording live sound for video, the Zoom H5 Portable Handy Recorder delivers professional-grade results without the professional-grade setup time. Four inputs, four tracks, and a swappable stereo mic capsule make this compact recorder one of the most versatile tools available for creators on the move.

Built for Real-World Recording

The H5's rubberized, rugged body is engineered for the field. Mount it in your hand, lock it to a mic stand or tripod, or attach it to a camera hot shoe (sold separately) — it's equally at home on a film set or at a concert. The included XYH-5 capsule captures sound in a 90° X/Y configuration via matched unidirectional condensers seated in a dedicated shockmount, handling everything from quiet ambience to ear-splitting 140dB SPL sources. Need a different polar pattern? Simply swap in any compatible Zoom interchangeable capsule — mid-side, X/Y, or shotgun — the way you'd swap a camera lens.

Intuitive Controls, Professional Results

Large, individually labeled gain knobs sit behind a protective bar on the front panel, giving you instant level control without navigating menus. A built-in compressor, limiter, and lo-cut filter polish your signal on the fly, while a -20dB pad per input handles particularly hot sources. A hold switch locks the panel to prevent accidental button presses during critical takes. The backlit monochrome LCD keeps levels, recording time, and battery status readable day or night. Running on just two AA batteries, the H5 delivers up to 15 hours of operation — and doubles as a 4-in/2-out USB audio interface when you're back at your desk.