Where precision meets portability, the Zoom H5 Handy Recorder sets a new benchmark in the realm of professional audio capture. Engineered to cater to the evolving needs of creators, the H5 stands out with its four-track simultaneous recording capability. Emulating the flagship H6, it boasts an innovative system of interchangeable input capsules, ensuring that you always have the optimal microphone for every recording scenario.The H5 is not only fully compatible with all Zoom input capsules but also comes equipped with the new XYH-5 X/Y stereo capsule. This advanced addition features extended signal capacity and shock-mounted microphones, significantly reducing handling noise for crystal-clear audio capture. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a newcomer to portable recording, the H5 offers the versatility and power necessary to produce multitrack recordings of the highest quality, enhance your videos with pristine audio, and excel in podcasting, broadcasting, and electronic news gathering.The XYH-5 X/Y microphone capsule, included with the H5, consists of two matched unidirectional condenser microphones arranged at a 90-degree angle. This design is housed within a sophisticated shockmount that minimizes vibration and handling noise. The XYH-5's robust construction allows the H5 to handle extremely loud sounds - up to 140 dB SPL - enabling the capture of audio that is louder, closer, and cleaner than ever before.The H5's modular design is a testament to its adaptability. With capsules like the Zoom XYH-6 large diaphragm X/Y mic, which offers adjustable angles for precise sound capture, and the MSH-6 mid-side mic, ideal for film and video work, you can tailor your audio to the environment. The SGH-6 Shotgun capsule is perfect for capturing distant sounds, while the EXH-6 Dual XLR/TRS Combo capsule expands your recording capabilities to four separate audio channels.The H5 is also accommodating to various microphone types, offering phantom power options and a 20dB pad for signal attenuation. The 1/8" Mic/Line In jack on the XYH-5 capsule allows for the connection of small condenser microphones requiring 2.5 volts of Plug-In Power.On the hardware front, the H5 features intuitive transport controls and dedicated record arming buttons for each track, which also serve as mute switches during playback. A Hold switch ensures that your recording goes uninterrupted by disabling all front panel buttons. The H5's design allows for easy attachment to a camera strap or direct mounting to a DSLR or camcorder with an optional Hot Shoe mount.Connectivity is a breeze with the H5, offering dual combo XLR/TRS inputs for external microphones and line-level devices. Each input has its own dedicated gain control, protected from accidental adjustments. The XYH-5 capsule adds a secondary input for stereo mic- or line-level signals. The H5's high-quality preamps ensure excellent recordings in any sonic environment.The H5 provides a multitude of output options, including a dedicated Line Out with adjustable volume and a separate headphone output, both usable simultaneously. A built-in speaker offers quick playback, and the USB port transforms the H5 into an audio interface for computers or iPads.Powered by just 2 AA batteries, the H5 boasts over 15 hours of continuous recording. An optional AC adapter is also available for battery-free operation. The H5 records directly to SD and SDHC cards up to 32 gigabytes, ensuring ample storage for your audio files.In terms of software, the H5 offers both stereo and multitrack recording modes, capturing audio in WAV and MP3 formats. WAV files are time-stamped and BWF compliant, perfect for video post-production synchronization. The H5's onboard effects, including compression, limiting, and a low-cut filter, enhance your recordings, while the metronome and tuner keep your sessions in time and tune.Additional features include playback looping, variable playback speed, pre-record function, Auto-Record, and Backup-Record for an extra layer of security. The Loop Back function facilitates easy narration over music playback when using the H5 as an audio interface.The Zoom H5 Handy Recorder is a comprehensive tool for creators who demand versatility, quality, and portability in their audio recording equipment.