Audio Recording Kit

1. Ensure L&R tack lights are on: If the red indicator light is off, depress the L & R buttons to enable.

2. Point the mic at sound.

• The Stereo Mic is ideal for all-over room sound
• The Directional Mic is ideal for sound specificity

3. Adjust microphone volume on the dial located on the front of each mic

• Also adjust Input volume knob as needed.

4. Check levels: Voice should be approx. -12 db. Sounds recorded at 0 will be distorted.

5. Headphone volume: If your levels look good but you still can’t hear,check your headphone volume

• Always monitor your recording by wearing the provided headphones

Red record button: Press to start recording

• To stop recording, press the square stop button

Play/FF/RW: Playback recorded files and navigate tracks

• In the field, deconstruct the sound of the space and record the various elements.  Consider texture and proximity while recording.  
• Always record at least 30 seconds of the space you are in without intervening.  
• Prior to recording, listen carefully. If you hear a sound you don't want and you can turn if off or avoid it, do so.  It's easier to do this now than when you are editing, e.g. fridge hum, background music, etc.  
• Say what you are recording into the microphone.  This will help you with organizing your audio files.
• Be strategic with the microphones you choose to use. Again, the stereo mic for all-over sound and the directional mic for specific sounds. 

Other than the Stereo Mic and Directional Mic included in the kit, the Zoom H5 recorder has 2 additional XLR inputs for other types of microphones. You may choose to use different mics depending on your recording purpose:

• Lavalier Microphone: You may want to check out one of our Lavalier Microphone Kits if you are conducting an interview. These are small lapel mics that attach to your subject's clothing for crisp, uninterrupted sound of their voice.
  • Use the XLR adapter in the Lav Mic Kit to plug the mics into the Zoom H5. 
• Audio XLR Capsule: This is not a microphone, but a device available for checkout that allows you to add 2 extra XLR inputs into the Zoom H5 recorder. Check out the Audio XLR Capsule guide for more detailed information on the mics mentioned in this section. 

Enable Channel 1 and/or 2 and select Multi-file if using mics not included in the Audio Recording Kit.