Hello, I currently shooting films semi-pro, I have a Sony HDR-CX 305, have told me they could use a Zoom H2 or H4 micro, what type of microphone can be connected or adapt to my camera? thank you
so the h2 can record audio by itself, i want ot get a 60d with a rode videomic and record wit hthose together, the have a sound guy with the h2 recording anything that the rode missed. can i do that or does the h2 need to be connected to the camera, and can i put a boom mic into the h2and record with those 2 together? finally is there any way to put a headset into the h2, so my sound guy can hear whats going on while recording and if he hears something bad we can restart?
@NEWYORKFX2 yes, the H2 records by itself onto an SD card and it has a headphone socket where you can monitor the sound in real time. no need to plug it into the camera.
@rickvanman I think he means in terms of the rig. So basically selling the set with the washer pre-cut to size, 1/4" by 20mm bolt and the cardoid spider shock mount all together.
Hi, I have a question. If I'm doing some ethnographic research, meaning I have to record the environmental sound AND the voice of the main speaker which recorder should I use ? Somebody pointed the Zoom H2 and the Sony PCM M-10 as good choice.
as long as you´re not looking for 4channel recordings you can also directly connect the h2 to your camera by using a stereo cable.in this way you don´t have any struggle with syncing afterwards. lately i tried it and it works just fine in combination with my 550 d (using magic lantern firmware).
just don´t set the outputvolume over 80% otherwise there are disturbing noises.
as long as you´re not looking for 4channel recordings you can also directly connect the h2 to your camera by using a stereo cable.in this way you don´t have any struggle with syncing afterwards. lately i tried it and it works just fine in combination with my 550 d (using magic lantern firmware).
just don´t set the outputvolume over 80% otherwise there are disturbing noises.
as long as you´re not looking for 4channel recordings you can also directly connect the h2 to your camera by using a stereo cable.in this way you don´t have any struggle with syncing. lately i tried it and it works just fine in combination with my 550 d ( agic lantern firmware).
just don´t set the outputvolume over 80% otherwise there are disturbing noises.
Hi, first of all thanks for your video, very useful! I'd like to have a suggestion ,please, I'm a photographer and I usually cover social reportage, sometimes I need an external microphone to record the ambient sound but other times I need to record a only voice as clear as possible to use in my slidshow, well do you suggest for this kind of use the Zoom H1 or the H2? Thanks in advance!
Hi first of all thanks a lot for your video they are very usefull
I need please a suggestion, I'm a photographer and I usually cover social reportage, sometimes I need an external microphone to record the ambient sound but other times I need to record a only voice as clear as possible to use in my slidshow, well do you suggest for this kind of use the Zoom H1 or the H2? Thanks in advance!
@GianpaoloLaPaglia Hi, you could do a lot worse than the H1 or H2. The H1 does appear to have a bit of a problem with handling/fumbling noise (if you are holding the mic) - and they've put the tripod screw thread half way down the back instead of at the base, which means you can't really fasten it down very well, plus with the H1 they don't supply any kind of wind shield which is essential for outdoor work. On that basis the H2 would be better, but do your homework before taking the plunge ;o)
I was thinking of buying 2 of these and placing them above my drum kit for recording with both of them on 4 channel surround sound, good sound yes or no?
Just like to say, the stereo recording translated well to my nearfield monitors. I especially liked pickup from the 120 degree rear setting. haha just heard you say at the end you'd use that setting too. Great little demo of the mic, and ingenious boom making. Bravo all round and thanks.
(could use a low cut for the first setting, it's quite boomy.)
You're welcome. Another thought, 2 x H2's on one boom. One recording an ambient capture in the surround pattern, the other recording the vox in the rear stereo pattern, a clapper board for audio synch with the two audio tracks and video would give the audio editor so much source material to work with. You could get some very natural sounding results that way, it'd just be a matter of a quick gain adjustment to find a balance of ambiance and vox that works.
@freestylefilmsinc yep - this was filmed before the days of my rather superb H2 windjammer - which I now manufacture and sell! (see the link in the notes)
Hi Rick, excellent video! I was wondering how you connected the Rode Video-Mic into the Zoom H2 when I read that it doesn't come with XLR ports. Did you use an XLR adapter?
Sorry I meant LIMIT3 STUDIO. Also it took a while to figure out but you can increase the record level manually. Simply hit the red button to put in standby mode. While it's still in standby mode hit the left or right arrow button (says record level underneath).
Nice video, love the device you mounted the H2 to.
Where do you get the device you mounted the microphone in? Is it available internationally? I live in Norway you see.
I'll be using my monopod as a pole as it's does the job very well, but I don't want the handling to make too much noise so having the H2 suspended would be a good idea.
Good tips but in order to get the correct sound you not only need to change the recording patterns but the AGC settings in the menu. I recorded fishing in Tampa Bay for a reality show and set it to AGC (speech) at 120. It picks up everything so bring along a good wind screen. If you are doing VO in the studio it's best to put it on LIMIT1 (GENERAL) OR LIMIT3 (GENERAL).
Hey rick, thanks bunchies, you are awesome! I do have a question though do you by any chance have a website or anything where I can get that screw or bolt as you call it? thanks alot! ^_^
@alexproctertheweblog You need an editor that allows you to encode the 4 seperate audio channels into the final product. I tend to just put both stereo tracks in sync with each other - gives you the closest thing to surround sound without the faff.
well, i have the kodak zi8, and would you reccomend for usage of everything an h2 or a rode vdeomic. Is it worth no cords for having to synch it eash time?
@treecumber It's not easy to answer that one. Each mic is good for different things. Depends on how much of each thing you are likely to be doing. If forced to make a choice, then personally I would choose the H2 every time, but only because of the outstanding quality of the audio recordings.
@treecumber depends on your budget and personal preferences. The H2 makes a fab all-round mic without the need for additional recording devices - good for those of us on a limited budget. A shotgun mic might do a slightly better job with overhead dialogue, but requires additional equipment such as a recording device and a lead, and some cheaper recording devices may not give you the option to monitor the sound real-time.
Thanks for the idea. I purchased the mic off amazon as well as a cheapish Monopod and mini ball head to act as a sudo boom pole. I think it's going to be really fun to try out for my films and I appreciate the cheap solution. Thanks
hi ok this was a very good and educational vid.... so i was wondering if u can tell me what that thing is in the begnning from about 0:23 to about 0:25 ive been going bloody mad to find out what that is and that is bacause i need to make amovie and i am only a kid so if you can tell me what that is that is very help full thank you ! :]
I know this is not completely related to this video, but what is the single flap of metal that you have on the front of your camcorder, I, being from the technical theatre background would refer to it as a barn door. Also, how much do they cost and where could I get one? I have a Canon MD205, but need something to block out sunlight.
@rickvanman - hey rickvanman, i was just wondering if this is common within the industry or amongst audiophiles. I'm going to school for this and we use a shotgun mic. But I was just wondering if using an H2 is also normal or good to use?
lol, I thought maybe I was being moronic when I thought I could use this thing as a boom. I have a camera that records great quality video but the sound sucks. Thanks alot!
what you need to get a hold of is bias sound soup. its quite cheap and you can get rid of most of the noise on your sound files. just use a free sound editing suite like audacity to normalise your audio then throw it into sound soap and itll make your audio much better
Well actually original H4 now is about 250CAD in Toronto, it's the new H4N is 450CAD but still 250 isn't bad I think for the cause of recording at 16/24 bit as well as from 44.1/48 or 96 kHz sample rate... Well at least that's my opinion. I'm a sound guy so I support high quality sound only 8) As well as HQ audio inputs.
I prefer to use Zoom H4 for that purpose, since it has 2 XLR inputs as well as 48P Phantom power... This way you could Attach H4 straight to the Boom Pole and literally hawing recorder and level trim on you pole. Just like a Sound Devices on-pole fader, except with the recorder as well. I'd personally use H2 only in indoor situation, since it doesn't really got much wind protection... Nice video though. Cheers from Toronto
I just bought a Zoom H2, but I haven't gotten it in the mail yet. Thanks for the video, I am looking forward to using this mike. Best wishes with your filmmaking.
Great videos. I was originally going to go with a RODE NTG-2, Beachtek or Juicedlink and XLR cables with my Canon HV30, but now I'm seriously considering going with the Zoom H2 or H4 alone. It seems like a lot less hassle in terms of equipment (and cost!)The Zoom H4 is a little bigger than the H2, but would it be able to use the same shockmount and such?
you sound just like me, I'm so glad I didn't pull the trigger on the ntg-2 with the juicedlink xlr adapter, and now I'm looking into the zoom h2. Still studying on it now though.
hey rick. sorry to bother you again. what do you think produces better sound quality, the zoom h2 on a boompole or a rode videomic attached to a camcorder. would a rode videomic attached to a boompole produce better quality or would the difference be minimal due to convenience.
The zoom H2 by far produces the best sound quality regardless of its location and you can monitor the sound real-time in headphones.
The Rode videomic produces OK sound and you can also plug it in to the camera saving you the trouble of matching up the audio later on in editing. If you attach the rode to a boom pole, you will usually get better sound than from mounted on top of the camera.
So the question now is - which do you prioritse? - highest quality sound or editing convenience?
thanks rick. just so you know, i've done a little research and i heard you could plug a line out cable from the h2 into a canon hv camera so you don't have to synch it manually. i don't know how that would work for other cameras, just thought you'd want to know
I actually got the zoom so that i didnt have to worry about running leads from the mic to the camera.
If you are going to do that arrangement then I would save your money and just get a basic shotgun mic, as you would not be geting the full benefit from the zoom.
Thanks for your videos Rick. They are a great help for those of us starting to shoot short films. However, I have noticed that you seem quite disappointed with the H2 results since I've seen you in another video of yours swearing to it. What went wrong? Are there any other options for optimal sound quality. Many thanks and keep up the good work.
Hi, glad you like the vids - I think you might have misread me though.
I think the zoom H2 is one of the most brilliant, versatile, and high-quality bits of kit in my entire filmmaking arsenal, and I would reccomend it to anyone.
I wouldn't hesitate buying another one if needed.
Ty rick. do you suppose that i could pack a hex nuts too if the thread is a bit long? i think i will buy a bolt 1/2 inch in length which is 12.7 mm. it's the smallest size on amazon
about the washer, it has an outer diameter of 15.875 mm. i suppose it's not large enough is it?
packing it with hex nuts or washers will probably work, so will cutting the length of the bolt down - whatever it takes to prevent the nut from bottoming-out in the H2 thread socket.
The main washer needs to be about 22mm -23mm diameter to hold the H2 into the samson mount. I just used a coin, and ground it down to size.
I have a vado hd pocket size camcorder and h2 recorder.....how did you get the h2 to work in syn with your video camera...What will I need to do...I want to record my music I composed with me singing them and than transfer it to my computer to make DVD's...What do you think
The syncronization seems too be a little beyond my capability, however, I will give it a shot.....I will need software to actually allow me to do this...what software might I use...When I use windows movie maker, I have loaded pictures and than added my music...but that is altogether quite diferrent than what I am intending on doing, essentually making a music dvd, Thank you once again
for a beginner, windows movie maker is a good place to start. if you are talking about making your own DVD's then you'll probably need some better software. You'll need to be looking at spending aroundt $60 - $100, for something half-decent.
personally I have heard good things about the Sony Vegas light (not full) editions. I use Adobe Premiere elements, but it's very complicated to use.
Great stuff! Be sure to plug in a set of headphones, switch it to 4 channel recording, turn up the volume and the gain, then go on a walkabout outside.
You'll be amazed at the sounds it picks up! It's like having bionic ears!
I want to make a video of me playing my baritone ukulele and singing some of the songs I composed........I presently have the H2 recorder and a Vado HD pocket size camcorder that shoots outsanding video...How does your video work with the video cam and h2 recorder work or do you simply use the microphone of the H2 to override the cam microphone..How can I make my setup work?
my friends and I are making our first movie this summer, it's going to be mostly outside. we have a shotgun mic, were were planning on using it as a boom so I was wondering what device do we need to record the mic on?
Is there a way i can reduce the sound of my boom pole picking up throught the mic? Every time my sound guy films he adjusts his hands on the pole and just always picks up. Now im not using a actual boom pole. Its an extending paint roller about 10' long. Is there a way to change the settings on the zoom h2 so i dont pick up so much rattling and only my actors? I have changed the mic gains and the 90, 120, 2 channel and 4 channel settings.
Thanks for the quick response. I was also thinking of buying the zoom H4, the nice thing about it is that you can also connect XLR cable and use phantom power, so you could actually carry the H4 around and attach a mic to your pole and of course still record with it. Thanks again.
Im wanting to use this with an external lapel mic and let the recorder be in a persons pocket, or on their belt, is there anything on here that will prevent them from accidently stopping the recording? or is there a large chance that could happen?
Hi. I would say the risk was about 30%. Maybe a bit less than putting a mobile phone in your pocket and not pushing the buttons. Strapped to a belt would be safest.
I just plugged a cheap, un-powered lapel mic into the zoom and it didn't work (not even slightly), but a powered mic did (rode videomic). so I'm not sure what type of lapel mic you would use. Please let me know if you get it to work.
I've been working as sound recordist in tv advertising..
I've got the H2, it is an excellent field recorder, the quality of the sound is impressive, however, I would not choose the H2 for dialogue recording, Instead I prefer a Neumann KMR81i. The H2 is very good if you want to record soundscapes, nature sounds atc... Mind that you will need a good windscreen like a Sennheiser MZW70-1 (I know, very pricey), as the H2 is very sensible to lo freqs bursts caused by a very mild wind.
you could tell me what were the settings used to make the recording of 180 °
L / M / H?
gain in db?
type of format? (mp3 or wav)
thank you
herect 2 weeks ago
Hello, I currently shooting films semi-pro, I have a Sony HDR-CX 305, have told me they could use a Zoom H2 or H4 micro, what type of microphone can be connected or adapt to my camera? thank you
TheFilatures 2 months ago
I'm so glad that someone finally tried this. Thank you.
TheRedKestrel 5 months ago
so the h2 can record audio by itself, i want ot get a 60d with a rode videomic and record wit hthose together, the have a sound guy with the h2 recording anything that the rode missed. can i do that or does the h2 need to be connected to the camera, and can i put a boom mic into the h2and record with those 2 together? finally is there any way to put a headset into the h2, so my sound guy can hear whats going on while recording and if he hears something bad we can restart?
NEWYORKFX2 7 months ago
@NEWYORKFX2 yes, the H2 records by itself onto an SD card and it has a headphone socket where you can monitor the sound in real time. no need to plug it into the camera.
rickvanman 7 months ago
Comment removed
andre22uk 7 months ago
oh and another thing, PLEASE start selling them for lazy people.
Jibbuns 7 months ago
@Jibbuns I have a range of windjammers up for sale now - see MicCovers dotCOdotUK
rickvanman 7 months ago
@rickvanman I think he means in terms of the rig. So basically selling the set with the washer pre-cut to size, 1/4" by 20mm bolt and the cardoid spider shock mount all together.
gotenks918 4 months ago
@gotenks918 naa, too much stock to hold :o(
rickvanman 4 months ago
@rickvanman Could you not do it based per order? So once you get an order come through you get the parts you need and do it that wya?
gotenks918 4 months ago
@gotenks918 The business basics wouldn't be sustainable - the time involved to do it that way could never be recouped by the sale price. :o(
rickvanman 4 months ago
@rickvanman Ah sucks man because I would have bought one :P
gotenks918 4 months ago
do your wind sheilds still work with the shock mount on the H2?
Jibbuns 7 months ago in playlist Film Making
@Jibbuns sort-of, but not that well - there is a lot of squeezing and persuading involved.
rickvanman 7 months ago
Hi rick, thanks for introducing this great product. I've been trying to find a good audio device for some time now and this H2 is pretty amazing.
mtelkaix 8 months ago
Hi, I have a question. If I'm doing some ethnographic research, meaning I have to record the environmental sound AND the voice of the main speaker which recorder should I use ? Somebody pointed the Zoom H2 and the Sony PCM M-10 as good choice.
Thx
limunovapita 9 months ago
umm um um um ummm ummm umm um um mumm
jarredjarred12 9 months ago
hmmm this sounds like a great mic and looks great. but would i get better quality using the Zomm H4n?
GMSamuelRhine 10 months ago
Comment removed
poundpit 11 months ago
Comment removed
poundpit 11 months ago
sorry for the double post
noeltzey 11 months ago
as long as you´re not looking for 4channel recordings you can also directly connect the h2 to your camera by using a stereo cable.in this way you don´t have any struggle with syncing afterwards. lately i tried it and it works just fine in combination with my 550 d (using magic lantern firmware).
just don´t set the outputvolume over 80% otherwise there are disturbing noises.
noeltzey 11 months ago
@noeltzey
Dude thank you. I just bought this for $84 on ebay tonight and your comment helped my purchase of this over the Rode ( which I still might get too).
and double posting it double helped.
tlcoiner 11 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
as long as you´re not looking for 4channel recordings you can also directly connect the h2 to your camera by using a stereo cable.in this way you don´t have any struggle with syncing afterwards. lately i tried it and it works just fine in combination with my 550 d (using magic lantern firmware).
just don´t set the outputvolume over 80% otherwise there are disturbing noises.
noeltzey 11 months ago
as long as you´re not looking for 4channel recordings you can also directly connect the h2 to your camera by using a stereo cable.in this way you don´t have any struggle with syncing. lately i tried it and it works just fine in combination with my 550 d ( agic lantern firmware).
just don´t set the outputvolume over 80% otherwise there are disturbing noises.
noeltzey 11 months ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Hi, first of all thanks for your video, very useful! I'd like to have a suggestion ,please, I'm a photographer and I usually cover social reportage, sometimes I need an external microphone to record the ambient sound but other times I need to record a only voice as clear as possible to use in my slidshow, well do you suggest for this kind of use the Zoom H1 or the H2? Thanks in advance!
GianpaoloLaPaglia 11 months ago
Hi first of all thanks a lot for your video they are very usefull
I need please a suggestion, I'm a photographer and I usually cover social reportage, sometimes I need an external microphone to record the ambient sound but other times I need to record a only voice as clear as possible to use in my slidshow, well do you suggest for this kind of use the Zoom H1 or the H2? Thanks in advance!
GianpaoloLaPaglia 11 months ago
@GianpaoloLaPaglia Hi, you could do a lot worse than the H1 or H2. The H1 does appear to have a bit of a problem with handling/fumbling noise (if you are holding the mic) - and they've put the tripod screw thread half way down the back instead of at the base, which means you can't really fasten it down very well, plus with the H1 they don't supply any kind of wind shield which is essential for outdoor work. On that basis the H2 would be better, but do your homework before taking the plunge ;o)
rickvanman 11 months ago
I was thinking of buying 2 of these and placing them above my drum kit for recording with both of them on 4 channel surround sound, good sound yes or no?
MrPuma96 11 months ago
@MrPuma96 I'd try it with 1 first, you might find the sound quality is such that you don't need a second one. yes it will be very good sound quality
rickvanman 11 months ago
Zoom H2's are handy little fellows...never thought I could use mine as a boom mic =]
MusicBySav 1 year ago
thanks for your generosity - most appreciated!
agatons100 1 year ago
Just what I wanted to know Rick! I'll definately be getting a Zoom H2 once I've got enough money together :)
j3pfilms 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
what do you think for a short film realization with a low low budget? is better the Rode VM, the Rode SVM o the Zoom H2?
superpatagonia 1 year ago
when i do my indie films i use an edirol or a h2 with an azden shockmount
freestylefilmsinc 1 year ago
don't use field dominance. it creates interlacing.
nuahsx 1 year ago
Just like to say, the stereo recording translated well to my nearfield monitors. I especially liked pickup from the 120 degree rear setting. haha just heard you say at the end you'd use that setting too. Great little demo of the mic, and ingenious boom making. Bravo all round and thanks.
(could use a low cut for the first setting, it's quite boomy.)
feckdrinkgirls 1 year ago
@feckdrinkgirls Thanks for the great feedback :o)
rickvanman 1 year ago
Comment removed
feckdrinkgirls 1 year ago
@rickvanman
You're welcome. Another thought, 2 x H2's on one boom. One recording an ambient capture in the surround pattern, the other recording the vox in the rear stereo pattern, a clapper board for audio synch with the two audio tracks and video would give the audio editor so much source material to work with. You could get some very natural sounding results that way, it'd just be a matter of a quick gain adjustment to find a balance of ambiance and vox that works.
feckdrinkgirls 1 year ago
Comment removed
feckdrinkgirls 1 year ago
there some sub bass wind noise
freestylefilmsinc 1 year ago
@freestylefilmsinc yep - this was filmed before the days of my rather superb H2 windjammer - which I now manufacture and sell! (see the link in the notes)
rickvanman 1 year ago
@rickvanman It's still weird that you hear the wind when you use a wind cover around your mic on the left.
zendium91 1 year ago
Hi Rick, excellent video! I was wondering how you connected the Rode Video-Mic into the Zoom H2 when I read that it doesn't come with XLR ports. Did you use an XLR adapter?
200wingfilms 1 year ago
@200wingfilms Hi - the Rode videomic and the H2 both use 3.5mm jacks.
rickvanman 1 year ago
@rickvanman what do you think for a short film realization with a low low budget? is better the Rode VM, the Rode SVM o the Zoom H2?
superpatagonia 1 year ago
Thanks Rick. You did well in showing the abilities of the H2.
killergirls 1 year ago
could you please tell me what your main video camera is (the model) I`ve been looking but I cant find any with a microphone jack, Thanks 369matty
369MATTY 1 year ago
@369MATTY Panasonic NV-GS500
rickvanman 1 year ago
how do you connect the sound from the boom pole to the camera filming? How does that work?
gounc93 1 year ago
@gounc93 The H2 records independently (has its own audio recorder) so no need for wires.
rickvanman 1 year ago
@gounc93 you sync the sound up later
ItsCallum 1 year ago
Sorry I meant LIMIT3 STUDIO. Also it took a while to figure out but you can increase the record level manually. Simply hit the red button to put in standby mode. While it's still in standby mode hit the left or right arrow button (says record level underneath).
genepoolx 1 year ago
Nice video, love the device you mounted the H2 to.
Where do you get the device you mounted the microphone in? Is it available internationally? I live in Norway you see.
I'll be using my monopod as a pole as it's does the job very well, but I don't want the handling to make too much noise so having the H2 suspended would be a good idea.
SpeedFreakNO 1 year ago
@SpeedFreakNO Sorry for the quick post, I saw your video again and got the name of the device, and I found it on Amazon :P
Thanks a lot for making this vid about this device. It will help me a lot! I'll also be using it on my DSLR when I'll be placing my H2 on the camera.
SpeedFreakNO 1 year ago
Good tips but in order to get the correct sound you not only need to change the recording patterns but the AGC settings in the menu. I recorded fishing in Tampa Bay for a reality show and set it to AGC (speech) at 120. It picks up everything so bring along a good wind screen. If you are doing VO in the studio it's best to put it on LIMIT1 (GENERAL) OR LIMIT3 (GENERAL).
genepoolx 1 year ago
Hey rick, thanks bunchies, you are awesome! I do have a question though do you by any chance have a website or anything where I can get that screw or bolt as you call it? thanks alot! ^_^
xz34 1 year ago
@xz34 Hi - I got it on eBay - found a shop specializing in nuts and bolts and e-mailed them.
rickvanman 1 year ago
@rickvanman sweet thanks!!
xz34 1 year ago
This has been flagged as spam show
@rickvanman sweet thanks!!
xz34 1 year ago
@rickvanman I just noticed this, your credits at the end say a copyright date of 200
drumset09 1 year ago
So I still do not know which one was better.
macwalen 1 year ago
How much does that Zoom H2 Microphone cost?
crappyfilmproduction 1 year ago
@crappyfilmproduction about £150GBP
rickvanman 1 year ago
@rickvanman Alright.
Thank you. Nice video. :]
crappyfilmproduction 1 year ago
@crappyfilmproduction It cost $179 at best buy..
ISTAYFRSH3 1 year ago
Thanks for such a great review and samples!
leifthor415 1 year ago
How did you manufacture the coin to fit in the Samon SP01?
timbotones24794 1 year ago
@timbotones24794 sanded it down to fit, then drilled a hole in the center
rickvanman 1 year ago
Which spider mount did you use?
timbotones24794 1 year ago
hi rick your vids really help my filmaking how can I turn the zoom h2 into 5.1 surround sound
alexproctertheweblog 1 year ago
@alexproctertheweblog You need an editor that allows you to encode the 4 seperate audio channels into the final product. I tend to just put both stereo tracks in sync with each other - gives you the closest thing to surround sound without the faff.
rickvanman 1 year ago
so where can i get a zoom h2?
masterbboy 1 year ago
@masterbboy amazon or eBay are good
rickvanman 1 year ago
@masterbboy lol updated version h4n is out already =P might wanna look into that
sfedorov 1 year ago
@sfedorov thank sfedorov i apreciate it
masterbboy 1 year ago
well, i have the kodak zi8, and would you reccomend for usage of everything an h2 or a rode vdeomic. Is it worth no cords for having to synch it eash time?
treecumber 1 year ago
@treecumber It's not easy to answer that one. Each mic is good for different things. Depends on how much of each thing you are likely to be doing. If forced to make a choice, then personally I would choose the H2 every time, but only because of the outstanding quality of the audio recordings.
rickvanman 1 year ago
hi so do you reccommend this or just a regular shotgun mic for all films? Like, filming a short video, or something. Does it record well enough?
treecumber 1 year ago
@treecumber depends on your budget and personal preferences. The H2 makes a fab all-round mic without the need for additional recording devices - good for those of us on a limited budget. A shotgun mic might do a slightly better job with overhead dialogue, but requires additional equipment such as a recording device and a lead, and some cheaper recording devices may not give you the option to monitor the sound real-time.
rickvanman 1 year ago
great video thanks for taking the time to show us how to use it im about to go buy one of those mics.
lafarandulamedia 1 year ago
Thanks for the idea. I purchased the mic off amazon as well as a cheapish Monopod and mini ball head to act as a sudo boom pole. I think it's going to be really fun to try out for my films and I appreciate the cheap solution. Thanks
theskip68 1 year ago
thanks for the trick i can use a Japanese coin Yen, there is an hole on this coin, so i don't need to drill ^^ !!!
Meteotrance 1 year ago
hi ok this was a very good and educational vid.... so i was wondering if u can tell me what that thing is in the begnning from about 0:23 to about 0:25 ive been going bloody mad to find out what that is and that is bacause i need to make amovie and i am only a kid so if you can tell me what that is that is very help full thank you ! :]
featherdie 1 year ago
It's a clapper board (or slate) - it's used to match up sound and video. You only need one if the sound is being recorded independently of the video.
rickvanman 1 year ago
Hi Rick,
I know this is not completely related to this video, but what is the single flap of metal that you have on the front of your camcorder, I, being from the technical theatre background would refer to it as a barn door. Also, how much do they cost and where could I get one? I have a Canon MD205, but need something to block out sunlight.
Thanks
foreya 1 year ago
Hi
Its called a matte box - the flap is known as a "french flag"
They are ridiculously expensive, and a small plastic lense hood from eBay will do just as good-a -job on any regular camcorder.
rickvanman 1 year ago
What do you do about wind defence Rick
outithewoods 1 year ago
Use a deadcat and film on a non-windy day!
Dont laugh - this is one issue I haven't yet been able to solve yet.
rickvanman 1 year ago
@rickvanman - hey rickvanman, i was just wondering if this is common within the industry or amongst audiophiles. I'm going to school for this and we use a shotgun mic. But I was just wondering if using an H2 is also normal or good to use?
JamesChristian724 1 year ago
Hi there. So how much is it? The Zoom H2 recorder.
JuliusRoden 1 year ago
its about £140
rickvanman 1 year ago
@rickvanman
Thank you. =)
JuliusRoden 1 year ago
Maplin Electronics £159:99
outithewoods 1 year ago
you can plug mics INTO the zoom h2 can't you?
Why not plug shotgun mic into it, then put zoom h2 on boom mans hip with headphones?
Would that not eliminate all issues at hand?
or am I a moron?
FAQUADklown 2 years ago
That should work. The quality might be an issue depending on what mic you use, but in principal it should work.
rickvanman 2 years ago
lol, I thought maybe I was being moronic when I thought I could use this thing as a boom. I have a camera that records great quality video but the sound sucks. Thanks alot!
thebutler89 2 years ago
Hi, I'm really interested in this and because I'm currently a low budget filmmaker, what's the cheapest shockmount I can use with the H2?
supafly377 2 years ago
the SP01 is the only one i'm familliar with - and its pretty cheap.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Thanks, that's great! Do I follow the same instructions when mounting the H2?
supafly377 2 years ago
Yes, the shock mount in this video is an SP01
rickvanman 2 years ago
is this the full lenght boompole (up to 3 meters and 950 weight) or the mini boompole?
schmitzNET 2 years ago
Its a painters pole! Extended length = 3 meters. see my video on how to make a boom pole for £15
rickvanman 2 years ago
@rickvanman Ah, thanks! I just ordered a Rode Boompole, but thanks again :)
schmitzNET 2 years ago
did you try different gain settings on the zoom h2? were there any noticeable differences?
tofuboy416 2 years ago
i think I was on full gain at all times during this video. only at very close range do i ever turn the gain down to the medium setting.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Great video. I'm getting this mic soon
tg01millmorer 2 years ago
Hi Rick is the mic good enough for Broadcast?
coldcarlsberg 2 years ago
In my opinion yes, absolutely, but I'm sure there will be some techno geek out there that will disagree with me. :o)
rickvanman 2 years ago
@rickvanman
Rick thanks for the great info and videos, i myself is an independent filmmaker, much thanks for the great channel mate.keep up the good work.
Vies from Singapore
coldcarlsberg 2 years ago
did the 5/8 inch to 3/8 inch converter for the boom pole come with the spider shock mount?
BBCN3ws 2 years ago
if memory serves me correctly, I don't believe it did. I think I pulled it off a microphone stand.
rickvanman 2 years ago
is it possible to record straught to hv30 camcorder without sync?
MrSupersushiboy 2 years ago
what you need to get a hold of is bias sound soup. its quite cheap and you can get rid of most of the noise on your sound files. just use a free sound editing suite like audacity to normalise your audio then throw it into sound soap and itll make your audio much better
LLCARMY 2 years ago
Thank you. That was really well done and helpful. I hope they're giving you a commission 'cause I'm going to go out and get one.
MadridTeacher 2 years ago
glad to help - perhaps i should as them for a comission as i seem to get a lot of messages like this! LOL
rickvanman 2 years ago
Well actually original H4 now is about 250CAD in Toronto, it's the new H4N is 450CAD but still 250 isn't bad I think for the cause of recording at 16/24 bit as well as from 44.1/48 or 96 kHz sample rate... Well at least that's my opinion. I'm a sound guy so I support high quality sound only 8) As well as HQ audio inputs.
Greenjah81 2 years ago
I prefer to use Zoom H4 for that purpose, since it has 2 XLR inputs as well as 48P Phantom power... This way you could Attach H4 straight to the Boom Pole and literally hawing recorder and level trim on you pole. Just like a Sound Devices on-pole fader, except with the recorder as well. I'd personally use H2 only in indoor situation, since it doesn't really got much wind protection... Nice video though. Cheers from Toronto
sound crew - SounDudes
Greenjah81 2 years ago
Hi Rick. Loved all your vids. Any chance of a quick audio demo with the mic at 90 degree angle...as mentioned at the end of your vid?cheers.
aquabilly 2 years ago
might be a good while before i do it, but i'll put it on my growing list of things to do
rickvanman 2 years ago
thanks for that ingej32 ....appreciate it
corleone0714 2 years ago
Hi Rick thanks for that..can this mic be used with a mac?? thanks
corleone0714 2 years ago
Yes it can. I have one, and I've used it with a mac. It works. No problems what so ever.
ingej32 2 years ago
Very helpfull video. Thanks a lot!
10angrytigers 2 years ago
We go to south cerney! how often do you go there?
SummersCovers 2 years ago
I just bought a Zoom H2, but I haven't gotten it in the mail yet. Thanks for the video, I am looking forward to using this mike. Best wishes with your filmmaking.
sillykidssong 2 years ago
Can you use this to record a live concert?
delacerdaa 2 years ago
I would imagine so
rickvanman 2 years ago
Great videos. I was originally going to go with a RODE NTG-2, Beachtek or Juicedlink and XLR cables with my Canon HV30, but now I'm seriously considering going with the Zoom H2 or H4 alone. It seems like a lot less hassle in terms of equipment (and cost!)The Zoom H4 is a little bigger than the H2, but would it be able to use the same shockmount and such?
Moosterz 2 years ago
I suspect not - the H2 is a snug fit, but I think the H4 will be too big for the shock mount. Although I could be wrong!
rickvanman 2 years ago
you sound just like me, I'm so glad I didn't pull the trigger on the ntg-2 with the juicedlink xlr adapter, and now I'm looking into the zoom h2. Still studying on it now though.
ferlonjrTV 2 years ago
for the money, I'm not sure what can beat it for sound quality, but that's just my opinion.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Ummm... so how do you slate your tracks? Windscreen? Camera feed? Timecode?
This is a handy dandy McGuyver approach for hobbyists, but if you show up with this rig to a professional shoot, you're done before you even start.
iocomposer 2 years ago
That's EXACTLY the point!
I am a low to zero-budget hobbyist, looking for practical, low to zero-budget solutions that myself and other people can benefit from.
If you want professional advice about professional filmmaking, you are definitely in the wrong place!
rickvanman 2 years ago
hey rick. sorry to bother you again. what do you think produces better sound quality, the zoom h2 on a boompole or a rode videomic attached to a camcorder. would a rode videomic attached to a boompole produce better quality or would the difference be minimal due to convenience.
FoodForBreakfast 2 years ago
The zoom H2 by far produces the best sound quality regardless of its location and you can monitor the sound real-time in headphones.
The Rode videomic produces OK sound and you can also plug it in to the camera saving you the trouble of matching up the audio later on in editing. If you attach the rode to a boom pole, you will usually get better sound than from mounted on top of the camera.
So the question now is - which do you prioritse? - highest quality sound or editing convenience?
rickvanman 2 years ago
thanks rick. just so you know, i've done a little research and i heard you could plug a line out cable from the h2 into a canon hv camera so you don't have to synch it manually. i don't know how that would work for other cameras, just thought you'd want to know
FoodForBreakfast 2 years ago
thanks for the tip - be interesting to see that in action.
rickvanman 2 years ago
I actually got the zoom so that i didnt have to worry about running leads from the mic to the camera.
If you are going to do that arrangement then I would save your money and just get a basic shotgun mic, as you would not be geting the full benefit from the zoom.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Hi Rick great recorder also how can i make a boom pole for the RODE mic
I have the RODE mic you have.
thank you
ThePottersWheelPro 2 years ago
see my video on how to make a boom pole - it will fit the Rode
rickvanman 2 years ago
Thank you so much.
ThePottersWheelPro 2 years ago
Thanks for your videos Rick. They are a great help for those of us starting to shoot short films. However, I have noticed that you seem quite disappointed with the H2 results since I've seen you in another video of yours swearing to it. What went wrong? Are there any other options for optimal sound quality. Many thanks and keep up the good work.
zurriagazo71 2 years ago
Hi, glad you like the vids - I think you might have misread me though.
I think the zoom H2 is one of the most brilliant, versatile, and high-quality bits of kit in my entire filmmaking arsenal, and I would reccomend it to anyone.
I wouldn't hesitate buying another one if needed.
Rick
rickvanman 2 years ago
I was thinking I would buy it, because my audio isnt doing so swell D:
I think I will buy a used one off of amazon. Is it wise to buy a used one, I want to save as much money as possible for after effects.
goldenjabba 2 years ago
I don't see a problem with a 2nd hand mic if you are ableto get one.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Thanks for the informative video. I was just wondering how long the length of the bolt was. Its 1/4-20 x ?
mkesadaran 2 years ago
The actual useable thread length (after adding the washer) needs to be just shy of about 10mm.
Just make sure it doesn't bottom-out in the zoom's thread socket or you could damage the mic.
If the thread is too long, either cut it down, or pack it with washers.
hope this helps
Rick.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Sorry again rick. I live in the US so we're pretty stuck on the customary unit.
Do you think a 1/4-20 x 7/8 bolt
and a 1/4 .281 x .625 washer would work?
mkesadaran 2 years ago
Not sure. I was brought up on metric measurments LOL!
Looking at a tape measure, 7/8 of an inch appears to be about 23mm. You need less than 10mm of usable thread to screw into the H2.
Haven't a clue what the washer numbers you supplied mean!
Rick
rickvanman 2 years ago
Ty rick. do you suppose that i could pack a hex nuts too if the thread is a bit long? i think i will buy a bolt 1/2 inch in length which is 12.7 mm. it's the smallest size on amazon
about the washer, it has an outer diameter of 15.875 mm. i suppose it's not large enough is it?
FoodForBreakfast 2 years ago
packing it with hex nuts or washers will probably work, so will cutting the length of the bolt down - whatever it takes to prevent the nut from bottoming-out in the H2 thread socket.
The main washer needs to be about 22mm -23mm diameter to hold the H2 into the samson mount. I just used a coin, and ground it down to size.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Hello Rick
I have a vado hd pocket size camcorder and h2 recorder.....how did you get the h2 to work in syn with your video camera...What will I need to do...I want to record my music I composed with me singing them and than transfer it to my computer to make DVD's...What do you think
Thanks
Bob
kaiu3 2 years ago
Bob - I've made you a video response - see my latest video "How to Synchronize Audio and Video" - it answers your question.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Thanks Rick
The syncronization seems too be a little beyond my capability, however, I will give it a shot.....I will need software to actually allow me to do this...what software might I use...When I use windows movie maker, I have loaded pictures and than added my music...but that is altogether quite diferrent than what I am intending on doing, essentually making a music dvd, Thank you once again
Bob
kaiu3 2 years ago
for a beginner, windows movie maker is a good place to start. if you are talking about making your own DVD's then you'll probably need some better software. You'll need to be looking at spending aroundt $60 - $100, for something half-decent.
personally I have heard good things about the Sony Vegas light (not full) editions. I use Adobe Premiere elements, but it's very complicated to use.
Hope this helps
Rick
rickvanman 2 years ago
Just bought a zoom H2, great bit of kit, nice vid Rick
dvdhouse 2 years ago
Great stuff! Be sure to plug in a set of headphones, switch it to 4 channel recording, turn up the volume and the gain, then go on a walkabout outside.
You'll be amazed at the sounds it picks up! It's like having bionic ears!
Rick.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Hello Rick
I want to make a video of me playing my baritone ukulele and singing some of the songs I composed........I presently have the H2 recorder and a Vado HD pocket size camcorder that shoots outsanding video...How does your video work with the video cam and h2 recorder work or do you simply use the microphone of the H2 to override the cam microphone..How can I make my setup work?
kaiu3 2 years ago
is that a jar of urine on the table?
Doggieman1111 2 years ago 2
Yes, very tasty!
rickvanman 2 years ago
Why use the Zoom H2 and not the Zoom H4?
crackercookies 2 years ago
The zoom H4 costs twice as much
rickvanman 2 years ago
hey, rick
my friends and I are making our first movie this summer, it's going to be mostly outside. we have a shotgun mic, were were planning on using it as a boom so I was wondering what device do we need to record the mic on?
thanks in advanced for the response!
666yousuck666ha 2 years ago
Hi Guys - see my video titled "SOUND RECORDING IDEAS ~ LOW-BUDGET FIMMAKING (UK)" - it'll tell you all the answers
rickvanman 2 years ago
5 stars!
DeadMansPartyFilms 2 years ago
Is there a way i can reduce the sound of my boom pole picking up throught the mic? Every time my sound guy films he adjusts his hands on the pole and just always picks up. Now im not using a actual boom pole. Its an extending paint roller about 10' long. Is there a way to change the settings on the zoom h2 so i dont pick up so much rattling and only my actors? I have changed the mic gains and the 90, 120, 2 channel and 4 channel settings.
mitchscottmadson 2 years ago
Get your sound guy to monitor the sound through headphones as he records - that way he can hear the sounds he is making and hopefully stop doing it.
Try extending the pole less than maximum, to see if that stops the noises. I dont get that problem with my boom pole - see my Tutorial.
As far as i am aware there are no settings on the H2 to compensate for such things.
Hope this helps
Rick.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Thanks for the quick response. I was also thinking of buying the zoom H4, the nice thing about it is that you can also connect XLR cable and use phantom power, so you could actually carry the H4 around and attach a mic to your pole and of course still record with it. Thanks again.
iamrubio 2 years ago
Im wanting to use this with an external lapel mic and let the recorder be in a persons pocket, or on their belt, is there anything on here that will prevent them from accidently stopping the recording? or is there a large chance that could happen?
iamrubio 2 years ago
Hi. I would say the risk was about 30%. Maybe a bit less than putting a mobile phone in your pocket and not pushing the buttons. Strapped to a belt would be safest.
I just plugged a cheap, un-powered lapel mic into the zoom and it didn't work (not even slightly), but a powered mic did (rode videomic). so I'm not sure what type of lapel mic you would use. Please let me know if you get it to work.
Cheers. Rick.
rickvanman 2 years ago
Rick have you had any problems syncing the video with sound from the zoom h2?
brianmr1 2 years ago
None to date
rickvanman 2 years ago
I've been working as sound recordist in tv advertising..
I've got the H2, it is an excellent field recorder, the quality of the sound is impressive, however, I would not choose the H2 for dialogue recording, Instead I prefer a Neumann KMR81i. The H2 is very good if you want to record soundscapes, nature sounds atc... Mind that you will need a good windscreen like a Sennheiser MZW70-1 (I know, very pricey), as the H2 is very sensible to lo freqs bursts caused by a very mild wind.
toborexperiment 2 years ago
Thanks for the tip.
My only issue would be the £1,200 price tag for the Neumann KMR81i - compared to the £120 price for the H2.
Got any audio equipment tips for the average low-budget YouTuber?
rickvanman 2 years ago
Could do with a popshield or background filter.
ScottRoseVideo 2 years ago
FInally, it was about time someone made a video concerning digital audio recorders and boom mics <_< Thanks!
PandaLegacy 2 years ago