The Zoom H1 Handy Recorder is a compact portable audio recorder used for interviews, lectures, podcasts, and field recording. It features built-in stereo microphones and simple controls, making it ideal for quick, reliable audio capture without complicated setup.

This tutorial will help you record audio using the built-in microphones and save your files for later use.

1. Getting Started

• Insert a microSD card into the slot on the side
• Insert one AA battery
• Slide the Power/Hold switch down to turn the recorder on
• Wait for the screen to fully load

2. Choosing a Recording Format

• On the back of the recorder, locate the WAV/MP3 switch
• Slide to WAV for highest quality
• Slide to MP3 for smaller file size

While WAV is recommended for editing projects, MP3 can be read by nearly any program making it easier to work with.

3. Positioning the Built-In Microphones

The H1 has fixed X/Y stereo microphones on top.

• Point the microphones toward your sound source
• Place the recorder on a table or tripod when possible
• Avoid touching the recorder during recording
• Keep it about 6–24 inches from the source

4. Setting Input Levels

• Use the +/- on the right side of the device to adjust the input level
• Speak at normal volume
• Watch the meters on the screen
• Adjust the dial so peaks reach between –12 dB and –6 dB
• Avoid hitting 0 dB (this causes distortion)

5. Recording Audio

• Press Record to start recording
• The timer will begin counting
• Remain still during recording
• Press Record when finished to stop recording

6. Playing Back Your Recording

• Press the Play button
• Use the forward/back buttons to select files
• Adjust volume using the side buttons
• Listen through the speaker or headphones

7. Using an External Microphone (Optional)

• Plug a microphone into the mic/line input on the right side of the device
• Adjust recording level using the +/-
• Monitor audio with headphones if available

8. Transferring Files to a Computer

• Power off the recorder
• Remove the microSD card and insert into a computer or connect the recorder via USB
• Look in the most recent folder (usually FOLDER01)
  • Note: the date and time might be off, but it should be the most recent file(s)
• Copy the file(s) to your computer for editing

Helpful Tips

• Always do a short test recording
• Keep microphones pointed toward the speaker
• Record in quiet spaces
• Avoid handling noise
• Bring extra batteries
• Check levels before every session

A video walkthrough on using the device can be found here.